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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling February 2016 No. 226

News Supermarket idea for No to warehouses THE Waterside Park proposals to build an industrial estate off M20 Junction 8 have been re-  M20 park and ride site fused at the High Court. 4 A PLAN to build a Waitrose supermarket on Maidstone’s doomed park Shopping boost and ride site at Eclipse Park has been unveiled. WORK is to start on a major re- vamp of the historic Royal  The £14m proposal would see a Star Arcade, Maidstone. 5 29,000sqft store developed close to the new Next shop near M20 Junc- tion 7, bringing an anticipated 200 Play park demand new jobs. The store would be more THE campaign to save a play than twice the size of the existing area in Park has  13,000sqft Waitrose in Allington been stepped up. 8 Park, which the retailer says it is committed to retaining. Nick Yandle, chief executive of Mr Yandle outlined the vision, about traffic problems, Mr Yandle Open space vision Gallagher Group, the developer be- pictured, to council- said that vehicles visiting the store A NEW cafe and visitors centre is hind the proposal, said Maidstone lors and residents ahead of a plan- would be spread throughout the the key part of a project  remains a key target for Waitrose, ning application due to be day, whereas the park and ride traf- to boost Mote Park. 19 who would have built a store in submitted to Maidstone Council in fic was condensed at peak times. nearby Newnham Court but for late February. He said the single- No new highways work would  Maidstone Council refusing Land storey building, next to the Tower- be required, with shoppers using Obituaries 26-27 Securities’ application in June 2014. gate office block, would have a the existing access by the Chiltern POP icon David Bowie had an He said: “The investment in a simple and contemporary design, Hundreds or the new junction interesting link to Maidstone. Waitrose store is a sign of confi- in keeping with the surrounding re- near the Next store. dence in the borough. It will rein- tail and commercial units and The existing park and ride facility Comment 46-4730 force Junction 7’s importance as a would feature Kentish ragstone. closes on Saturday, February 6. gateway to the Maidstone economy The car park would provide 300 If the plan is approved, building Crime Reports 31 and will attract further investment spaces, with two hours free parking is expected to start in late 2016 with and employment at Eclipse Park.” for customers. Replying to concerns the store opening early in 2018. Parish Councils 42-43 A KEY road in Boughton Mal- Age UK faces budget cut Costa coming herbe was weather-damaged; CORE services for the elderly are KCC’s adult services and under- the Diocese of Rochester ob- under threat, Age UK Maidstone stand it has difficult decisions to to Bearsted? jected to a proposal to serve al- has warned. make to balance its budget, but we A COSTA coffee shop could be open- cohol at Village Hall; It follows a request to the organ- are already the poor relation to ing in Bearsted. the bus service in was isation from KCC to cut its costs in other voluntary service providers. It was thought that workmen slammed; a £1,704 defibrillator West by £10,000 next year. “We are a lean organisation, so were set to move in at the former was ordered in ; Age UK says it has not received this request to trim our funding Hunker Down Daisy florist and water pollution fears were raised a real-term increase from KCC in needs further will translate into tearoom on the A20 Ashford Road in ; air condition- six years for the core services it the closure of some services or to begin necessary refurbishments. ing provoked concern in . provides Kent’s elderly residents more costs being passed to our Amanda Harris, from the nearby and already receives less per pen- clients – neither of which we Cavendish Tea Rooms, said: “This sioner than anywhere else in the want.” is a very busy road and businesses country. Mr Coles said negotiations are and local residents are already con- Age UK’s chief executive in continuing with KCC, with a deci- cerned about where these new cus- Maidstone Paul Coles said: “We sion expected in the coming  tomers will park. Traffic queuing at have a good relationship with weeks. 6 the nearby garage and Tesco – which already sells Costa coffee – Latest hospital plan for Newnham Court already spills in to the road and takes up spaces outside the parade Clean-up weekend A PROPOSED of shops on that side of the road.” hospital for As Downs Mail went to press, no JOIN in a long weekend of litter- mental health representative from the Costa chain picking activities between patients has had returned our calls. March 4 and 6. For more infor- been unveiled. mation see the Maidstone Coun- Turn to page  Public meeting to cil-sponsored 12-page Borough 12 for details. discuss local plan 8 Update in the centre pages.

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2 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk News War heroes Mum trained to offer file for loan THE history of villagers from Bearsted who lost their lives during World War I is being made avail- help to young parents able to local residents. As reported in the Downs Mail NEW mums are receiving the sup- “It was really important that I last year, Les Lawson from Yeoman port of an experienced “nanny” as had someone outside my family to Way has compiled a detailed file part of a health service scheme to talk to and they were always there with information about each of the prepare them for the challenges of when I needed them.” 26 servicemen whose names are on being a parent. Family nurse supervisor Carol the Holy Cross War Memorial. Jordan Greenway (20), from O’Malley said: “Being involved in It took him 18 months to com- Allington, is the first of 35 such this programme is a serious, long- plete and his research took him all young mums from Maidstone and term commitment and all those tak- over Kent and Sussex, to the Com- Tunbridge Wells to graduate from ing part have shown how monwealth War Graves Commis- the Family Nurse Partnership pro- dedicated they are to improving sion, the National Archives and gramme in West Kent. their lives and being the best mums Maidstone Museum – as well as The scheme – an American idea – they can be to their children.” historical internet sites. is being run by the Kent Commu- Colleague Cathie Burton says the Mr Lawson copied death notices, nity Health NHS Foundation, of- programmes are important as a photographed gravestones and col- fering the advice and support of way of getting support and guid- lated photographs of memorials on specially-trained family nurses for ance to young families early on. both sides of the Channel. two-and-a-half years to first-time She added: “We know early in- The result is an impressive tome mums under the age of 20. tervention leads to much better of facts, figures and photos in trib- Jordan, mum to two-year-old outcomes for our children, devel- ute to the 26 men. Kayden, said: “It was a huge shock opmentally and socially, so it’s a There were previously only three when I fell pregnant. I wasn’t pre- real pleasure to see this working so copies – one for the church, one for pared to be a mum – I had no expe- well in practice.” the Kent History and Library Cen- rience with babies and was worried The programme is being offered tre and one for Mr Lawson. How- I might break him! mation on the things to watch out in Maidstone and Malling. ever, the copy he gave to the Kent “My family nurses, Pippa and for, how to keep Kayden safe and Expectant mums can be referred History and Library Centre is still Helen, were amazing. They gave also places I could take him and the to the service by their school, mid- not available for public view, as me so much confidence and infor- things we could do together. wife or GP. they want to have it bound. Mr Lawson has now produced a fur- Read our archived editions FREE online at www.downsmail.co.uk ther copy which he is happy to loan out. Contact him on 01622 736264. 01622 738772 7 Yeoman Court, Ashford Rd Bearsted, Kent ME14 4ND www.directorshairandbeauty.co.uk

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Maidstone East February 2016 3 News downsmail.co.uk Waterside Park Pair team up for charity TWO ladies from Bearsted have lined up two events to raise money for charity. Claire McCarthy (41) and Hilary Sands (39) are arranging a Valentine’s Evening at the Orchard Spot appeal rejected in Downswood on February 13 and will be running the Marathon in April. THE High Court has thrown out upholds it, it shows that coura- Claire and Hilary (pictured) proposals to build an industrial geous decisions can win the day.” met when their children at- estate on land south of the M20 In his summing up, the judge tended a toddler group in the near Junction 8. mentioned the large amount of op- area and both are passionate After last year’s public inquiry, in position to the applications. about raising money for the which planning inspector Katie Mrs Richards said: “The inspec- Brain Research Trust. Hilary’s Peerless upheld Maidstone Coun- tor hearing the Kent International dad has vascular dementia cil’s decisions to reject Gallagher Gateway appeal several years ago and Claire’s nan and aunt Properties’ two Waterside Park ap- also commented on the volume of have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. plications, the company appealed. public opposition, so it is clearly Hilary, who teaches Pilates in Downswood, and Holling- However, High Court Judge Jus- worthwhile for the community to bourne, said: “Hopefully, this will prevent other families from going through tice Collins upheld the council’s de- make its views known in large the sadness these illnesses bring.” cisions. Craig Howell-Williams, numbers in situations of this kind.” To support them, go to the Virgin Money giving page and look for Hilary representng Gallagher, said being The judge ordered Gallaghers to Sands. To buy tickets for the Valentine dance call her on 07967 731659 or near the motorway made the site pay £9,290 costs. The company had Claire on 07876 731229. Tickets for the event, which starts at 8pm, cost suitable for a warehouses, despite 21 days to decide if it wished to £10 and there will be a charity auction. one of the prospective occupants, issue a further appeal. ADL, finding alternative premises Mid Kent MP Helen Whately for its relocation from Marden. said: “I have opposed this develop- Bearsted and Thurnham Soci- ment since I was elected [in May Bungalows plan is approved ety’s Mary Richards said: “It is par- 2015] – speaking against it was my A PLANNING application for four chalet bungalows in Bredhurst has ticularly heartening to see that first official engagement. been approved. when MBC councillors have the “We need successful businesses In 2003 a proposal to build seven units on the site, a vehicle repair and courage to reject planning applica- and jobs in Kent, but Junction 8 – so maintenance yard at 3 Blind Lane, was refused due to potential harm tions that their officers wish them close to Leeds Castle and the Kent caused to the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. to grant, and when that decision is Downs Area of Outstanding Natu- Despite five objections and concern from Bredhurst Parish Council that appealed, the planning inspec- ral Beauty – is not the right place. the number of homes was excessive, the planning committee voted torate supports it. “Development around Junction 8 through the proposal. An officer’s report said: “The proposal involves “When that decision is subject to will affect the landscape and par- replacement of what is currently an unconstrained and unneighbourly judicial review and the High Court ticularly the AONB.” land use with one more appropriate to this location.”

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4 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Arcade to get major revamp

MAIDSTONE is about to un- includes the removal of the band- dergo some serious retail therapy. stand staircase and redevelopment Work is about to start on a major of the central rotunda. revamp of the historic Royal Star Mr Le Beau said: “In its place we Arcade, breathing new life into the will have a large covered area that heart of the High Street. will provide ample dining space, The arcade, which stands on the as well as the opportunity for sea- site of the old Royal Star Hotel, has sonal events that are simply not enjoyed mixed fortunes, despite at- possible anywhere else in Maid- tracting top designer names be- stone at the moment.” cause of its prestigious location. The original Star Hotel was a The arcade, created as a shop- popular overnight stop for those ping mall in 1989, retains much of travelling between London and the original architectural splen- Folkestone. The 19th century saw dour of the 16th century coaching the hotel get the royal seal of ap- inn and new manager Daniel Le proval, and the ‘Royal’ prefix, after Beau said: “The arcade will be a visit by a young Queen Victoria. transformed into a beautiful, clas- It is home to the ‘Disraeli Bal- sically-styled shopping experience cony’, where Benjamin Disraeli unmatched in the area, with the made his parliamentary accept- atrium, given its undoubted ance speech after being elected MP Over 50 beauty, its crowning glory. for Maidstone in 1837. “We plan to focus on a high qual- Mr Le Beau said the scheme ity blend of independent and niche would draw on inspiration from retailers and complementary busi- the Burlington Arcade in London nesses for those who appreciate the and the Royal Arcade in Norwich. personal touch, those that enjoy a An announcement is also ex- little bit of luxury and those that pected shortly on plans for land at would like their trip to Maidstone Maidstone East railway station. to be more than ‘shop hopping’.” The council has been keen to see a The arcade has two levels, pro- supermarket and housing on the viding 28 retail units including a site for many years but, despite Offers available cafe, health food shop and other much speculation, there have so far on ex-display niche outlets. The refurbishment been no takers. models Parish issues dog warning FOUL deeds in Hollingbourne have angered the parish council. Dog fouling is a persistent problem in the village and the cause of numerous complaints from residents, particularly in relation to dog- gie deposits on the Millennium Green. The parish council expects all dog owners to clear up after their pets and accepts that most responsible residents do. But Cllr John Cobbett said: “A small minority of owners are letting down the reputation of man's/woman's best friend. Please make sure that you clear up after your dog.” There are several waste bins in the village and on land owned by Hollingbourne Meadows Trust but some dog owners fail to pick up their dog waste which can result in a public health hazard. Parish magazine editor Jean Duffy wrote: “Dog mess is an eyesore and a health hazard. If you are a dog owner, you have a legal duty to clean up every time your dog messes in a public place. This is not a licence to let your dog defecate on a private drive or in someone's garden, either. This can be a source of great distress to the home owner, and if they are elderly or disabled they may struggle to clear up your mess which is your responsibility.” The parish council in Alresford, Essex is considering introducing dog DNA testing to track down those responsible for the dirty deeds. The £120 cost of the test would be recovered from the dog owner. Mrs Duffy said: “I would like to see this extended to all areas.”

Maidstone East February 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Local plan ‘is Age UK set for cut Continued from page one wants and what we can offer. However, it is clear that there “If there is no flexibility in the will be no funding to continue budget we will not be able to pro- Age UK’s befriending service that vide the same level of service.” a step closer’ was started in West Kent with He said the organisation was Maidstone Mind after July 2016. being forced to absorb the cost of MAIDSTONE’S local plan has He accepted there were “some Mr Coles said: “This attracted a setting up staff pensions and the moved a step closer to reality. residual issues” with the local plan couple of hundred volunteers to implications of the living wage. Councillors have decided that the drawn up in 2014, chiefly concern- befriend or accompany elderly KCC part funds voluntary latest draft should go out for the ing the rural settlement hierarchy – people and those with mental groups to help in areas such as final public consultation, known as including whether or not health issues in their home or on adult social care services, which Section 19. should remain a larger village or be- day trips. Unfortunately, the suc- has a £9.5m budget. A spokesman Following this phase of consulta- come a rural service centre which cess of this pilot is not the issue said: “Due to well-publicised cuts tion, the plan would go back to could increase the number of homes here, but the county council’s re- to local authority budgets, we Maidstone Council in April and then it takes. sources to continue funding it.” have had to look again at how on to the Government’s planning in- Former council leader Cllr Chris He said efforts were continuing much we fund voluntary organi- spectorate for approval. Garland (pictured) to fund the project from outside sations and as a result have writ- If approved, it would come into said he believed the sources. Mr Coles added: “Age ten to all 98, including Age UK. force in early 2017, giving the coun- latest draft to be UK fills a large number of gaps in “We have asked if they could cil greater powers to defend itself “sound in its current the service provision for the eld- reduce the amount of funding against planning applications for format” and ready erly in West Kent and these talks they require, and many have sites deemed unsuitable. to go through to S19 will need to look at what KCC agreed to do this.” Head of planning Rob Jarman consultation. said: “We have undertaken site visits He said: “It is for every single site for housing, em- completely wrong to talk about the Council tax facing bigger hike ployment and retail development. ‘concreting over of Maidstone.’ Only THE cost of caring for elderly and such as education, social services The plan will enable us to direct 0.6% of land in the borough will be vulnerable adults in Kent means and highways. growth to those areas where it is developed in the next 20 years. ratepayers will have a 4% increase in The extra 2% will raise about most appropriate.” “Any attempts to use anecdotes, their KCC council tax bill from April. £11m, but the county council spent Despite challenges to the “objec- hyperbole and emotion will not be KCC is taking advantage of new almost £350m on adult social care tively assessed housing need”, accepted by an inspector.” legislation allowing it to increase last year and says it needs a further Maidstone has set a target of 18,560 Cllr John Perry maintained the council tax by 2% to meet the costs £42m this year to keep social care at new homes between 2011 and 2031. plan was “seriously flawed” but of funding this sector. its current levels. Mr Jarman told the policy and re- council leader Cllr Fran Wilson said: That’s in addition to the 1.99% The average bill for a Band D sources committee: “We believe the “An imperfect local plan is far, far general increase already proposed to property will rise from £1,089.99 to borough can consume this.” better than no local plan.” help meet the costs of other services, £1,133.55 from April. MAXIMISE THE VALUE OF YOUR LAND Have you got a large garden, or small plot of land? We are experts at working with home owners to maximise the full value of their land

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Maidstone East February 2016 7 News downsmail.co.uk Last call for Calls to save play area housing views MAIDSTONE Council’s chief ex- A PUBLIC meeting to discuss the ecutive Alison Broom has been future of housing in Maidstone is asked to step in to secure the fu- being held at the Maidstone Stu- ture of one of the area’s most pop- dios on Thursday February 11. ular children’s play parks. The meeting, which starts at More than 100 parents petitioned 7pm, coincides with the Regulation to keep open Peverel Drive play 19 public consultation, which is the area in Bearsted Park when it was last opportunity to comment, sug- threatened with closure in 2014 by gest, amend and make changes to the borough council. Now, much of the proposed local plan. the play equipment has been re- The meeting is being organised moved by the council, which has Parish Council nor the local com- this list of strategic play areas, so by Cllr Paulina Stockell on behalf of declared it unsafe. munity have the reserves to pro- will not be maintained by the bor- the Maidstone and Mid Kent MPs, Eleana Keefe and Abbie Lowther, vide that level of funding so whilst ough council in the long term. Helen Grant and Helen Whately, who launched the campaign to giving the impression they are will- “If the parish council is not pre- and will run on a ‘Question Time’ save the play area, have been told ing to save the site they are not pre- pared to take this on [aftger five format with a panel and roving mi- by Maidstone Council that it will pared to secure its future. years of Section 106 funding], a fur- crophones. only repair the equipment if Thurn- “We are disappointed and frus- ther decision will need to be taken Cllr Stockell said: “Residents are ham Parish Council takes over re- trated at what we see as a cynical by Maidstone Council over the fu- very worried about their quality of sponsibility for its maintenance in move by Maidstone Borough ture of the play area. Separately to life in the future. Langley looks to five years’ time. Council to absolve their responsi- this, a recent inspection of the play become swallowed up in urban They have now written to Ms bility for a well-used play area and equipment found that the multi- sprawl and talk of a Leeds-Langley Broom, calling on her to intervene. an essential community resource, play was no longer safe, and so this Bypass through farmland to the Mum-of-three Eleana Keefe said: which MBC have maintained and was removed immediately.” M20 will blight the area and attract “We were told by MBC that fund- funded for more than 20 years.” A statement sent to campaigners more traffic.” ing from development in the area Campaigners are also calling on by Ms Broom said: “I’m sorry that The meeting will be chaired by was in place to prevent the closure MP Helen Whately for her support. you have not received the service BBC's John Warnett and will be at- of the play area and to replace all A spokesman for Maidstone Co- that you need. I have asked Paul tended by the leader of Maidstone the equipment. But after two years Council said: “Maidstone Council Spooner, director of regeneration Council Cllr Fran Wilson, planning of indecision, the council says it has a play area strategy to upgrade and place, to thoroughly review the chief Rob Jarman, KCC’s cabinet will reinstate the park – but only if a network of play areas so that the position and reply to you no later member for growth and transport Thurnham takes responsibility for vast majority of people in the bor- than February 8.” Matthew Balfour, CPRE Kent and it at about £5,000 per year.” ough will live no more than a 12 - To support the campaign visit the Joint Group, Maid- minute walk from a good quality Mrs Lowther said: “MBC are 'Save the Peverel Drive Playground' stone KALC and Paul Carter, play area. Peverel Drive is not on fully aware that neither Thurnham on Facebook. leader of KCC.

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Maidstone East February 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Keep it Queen RESIDENTS are being invited to Church income fears ‘Clean for the Queen’ as part of A PROMINENT member of Holy hugely over the past 20 years or so, sible for the upkeep of this area in Her Majesty’s 90th birthday cele- Cross in Bearsted believes taxpay- with both the costs and burden of the years to come? brations. ers’ money could be needed to maintaining the churchyard simi- “As the years pass and relatives A nationwide clean takes place help maintain its burial ground. larly increasing while, at the same are no longer around to look after on the weekend of Friday, March 4 John Stroud (81) has time, those showing loved-one’s graves, memorial to Sunday, March 6, when local retired after more than responsibility for it tablets and headstones become in- groups are asked to help with lit- 30 years as chairman of are getting older. secure and unkempt. We have an- ter picking. the fabric committee for “Everyone in the nual work-ins where parishioners Small landscape improvement Bearsted’s Grade I listed parish of any faith is and others come to help tidy the jobs in Bearsted are being co-ordi- church. In that time, he welcome to use the graveyard but it is a long-term, nated by the parish council. says the congregation – churchyard – not just thankless task. If you have some time to spare as at many other com- those who go to “There are other costs, too, like on that weekend, please contact munity churches – has church on a Sunday. removing old trees and shrubs and the parish clerk on 01622 630165 or grown in age and fallen So it begs question: maintaining walls and fences.” [email protected] in number. Who should cover the He fears that the cost of maintaining country’s churches and this valuable church- M20 cameras catch drivers community facilities, yard? Is it the church, DRIVERS need to take their feet off the gas when travelling on the such as those in the parish council, the M20 outside Maidstone. Bearsted, could suffer in villagers, or even Speed cameras clicked a total of 3,367 motorists exceeding the future while collections continue to Maidstone Council? The time is fast 70mph limit coastbound between J4 near Leybourne and J7 near fall and costs rise. approaching when this cost will be Bearsted in 2014, which helped make the borough the second most At Holy Cross, money collected too big to bear for the congregation ticketed in Kent. With 1,160 tickets issued as a result of camera action by the congregation currently cov- alone.” southbound on the A249 Road (Detling Hill), 933 south- ers the £3,000 annual cost of mow- Indeed, Bearsted Parish Council bound on Sutton Road towards Langley and 375 from cameras on the ing the grass in its large and has for a number of years paid for A20 London Road, the total number of tickets issued in Maidstone growing “open” cemetery. This is the maintenance of the “closed” during the year was 5,800 – 1,200 more than in the previous year. just one of dozens of yearly outgo- cemetery within the church walls. The figures are inflated for Detling Hill as the southbound safety ings, including £80,000 to the Dio- Mr Stroud added: “Funeral fees camera was repaired at the end of 2013, so the statistics for 2014 rep- cese of . cover the cost of the burial or in- resent a full year of operation and are not directly comparable with Mr Stroud, pictured, said: “We ternment, but who is then respon- the previous year. Similarly, during 2013 cameras on part of the Maid- are lucky at Holy Cross that we stone section of the M20 were not fully operational. Kent and Med- have a lively congregation, with Is your church facing financial way Safety Camera Partnership revealed the figures. services appealing to good num- challenges? Email our editor on Kent’s busiest speed camera was at the Dartford Tunnel approach, bers. But the village has grown [email protected] which clocked 7,637 vehicles. The M20 cameras were second busiest.

Seasonal Staff at Leeds Castle Ticket Office We are looking for smart, personable ticket office staff. Leeds Castle is one of the biggest heritage attractions in Ideally you should have either cash office or cash handling welcoming over half a million visitors each year. experience. We are looking forward to another busy summer season and have vacancies for the following staff: Housekeeping The housekeeping staff are responsible for cleaning all B&B Stewards and holiday cottages across the estate, as well as rooms in We have opportunities for stewards (working April – the castle. The hours of work are flexible, and whilst you October) who are responsible for greeting visitors and don’t need to have previous experience, you do need to be providing a source of information and help. Working motivated, hardworking and enthusiastic and possess outside in all weathers the successful applicants should be extremely high standards. cheerful, enthusiastic and ideally have experience in a customer service role. If you speak a second European In addition to be being a beautiful place to work, we language, we also have vacancies for staff to work in the offer a competitive salary and benefits package to Castle and act as Tour Guides. the right applicants. If you would like to apply for any of the above vacancies please send your CV to Driver [email protected]. We operate a Land Train and Mobility Vehicle to transport visitors around the estate and have a vacancy for an We are holding an interview day on 11th February experienced driver to join the Day Visitor Team. Previous 2016 and if successful, you will be invited to attend driving experience and good customer service skills are on this day. required for this role.

10 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Sensory boost for special school THEWINTERSALE SPECIALIST sensory equipment will be bought for pupils with profound, complex and severe learning difficulties and disabili- ties at a school in Maidstone. The Friends group of the special unit at Five Acre Wood School, in Boughton Lane, has received a cheque for £7,495 from the DM Thomas Foundation for Young Charlotte Pragassa (centre) receives People, a European grant-making the cheque from Leonardo Gagliano trust in London. and Jess Pollard of Hilton Maidstone Five Acre Wood School provides the foundation, said: “Our grants education for youngsters aged committee was impressed by the from four to 19 with conditions specialist support it provides to such as autism. children with special needs and Hypnos Stratus The money has been raised for their families and was unani- 150cm divan set the foundation by companies in- mously in favour of awarding Pocket sprung mattress divan with luxury RRP £2179 cluding the Hilton Maidstone funding to buy this new equip- TMPPS[XST½RMWLJSVI\XVEGSQJSVX SALE £1479 hotel. Simon Sheehan, director of ment.” Drawers and other sizes also available. Show tickets on sale TICKETS for the Kent County ager, said: “We have had a num- Show have gone on sale six ber of companies enquire about months ahead of the event. purchasing advance Kent The idea to launch the tickets County Show tickets for staff in November was to capitalise gifts and thank you presents.” on pre-Christmas sales, after Multi-day tickets can only be visitors told organisers they purchased in advance, priced would like to give tickets to £50, with a second costing £35. friends and relatives as gifts. Adult day tickets are £19.80 in The Kent County Agricultural advance and £22 on the day, Society, which organises the children £5.40 in advance and £6 Harrison Sapphire 150cm divan set with 2 drawers event, has also introduced a at the gate. 2 drawer divan featuring layers of pocket multi-day pass in response to This year’s Kent County Show RRP £3599 visitor feedback that they would takes place at the County Show- springs creating a supportive mattress with like to attend on more than one ground, Detling, from Friday HIIT½PPIHLERHWXMXGLIHWMHIWXSEHHWXEFMPMX] SALE £1999 day. Lucy Hegarty, show man- July 8 to Sunday July 10. Credit union’s £50K boost KENT Savers Credit Union has been awarded £50,000 by Lloyds Bank- ing Group to help it support more people in the local community. The credit union is a financial co-operative, run on a not-for-profit basis, which provides affordable financial services in the county. Martin Kingman, chairman of Kent Savers Credit Union said: "It will provide those, right here in Kent, with more affordable loans, especially Huge selection of beds, to those who may be worrying about debt after Christmas.” mattresses, headboards Lloyds has committed to provide £1m each year for four years and & bedsteads. this is the second wave of funding to be released. Experienced team offering Kent Savers is among 21 credit unions benefitting from £1m in grants expert helpful advice from Lloyds and one of 11 to receive a between £50,000 and £100,000. Easter debut for choral work Plus0% Up to 2 years MAIDSTONE Choral Union is set- The Crucifixion, with choruses for available on all orders over £1000* ting the scene for Easter with a a choir, soloists’ passages (for the *Cash price £2000, deposit £500. 24 monthly payments of £62.50. Total payable £2000. Subject to status, quotation available on request. Credit provided by an external fi nance special performance of Stainer’s risen Christ and for Mary Mag- company determined by Clarkes. Subject to acceptance. “The Crucifixion”. dalen) and hymns for the audi- The performance, on Saturday ence. March 12, at All Saints’ Church, It will be the first public per- Maidstone will be followed by a formance of this interesting com- www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk new work by composer David position, which is 35 minutes Pennant, Stainer’s great-grand- long. 01622 753073 son. The evening begins at 7.30pm “The Resurrection” sits com- and tickets can be purchased at Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF fortably in the same format as the door. UPHOLSTERY | DINING | BEDS | BEDROOM | ACCESSORIES

Maidstone East February 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Road closure EYHORNE Street, Upper Street Mental health unit idea and Hollingbourne Hill will be closed to traffic for two weeks. A NEW specialist mental health and at the gateway to Europe.” for Kent and the south-east, ensur- KCC is to start adjusting and rais- unit could be the focal part of the The current application seeks de- ing that local people are able to ac- ing manhole covers and drain Kent Medical Campus in Maid- sign approval for the new building, cess services as and when they grilles, following recent road resur- stone. which would provide mental need them.” facing, on Monday, February 15. Cygnet Health Care, one of health services for the local com- He said the Maidstone develop- The road will be closed from Britain’s largest independent munity. ment would bring an investment of 9.30am to 3.30pm each day. Traffic providers of mental health care, has The aim is for service users to be about £18 million to the area, creat- will be diverted via , Tun- submitted a planning application treated closer to their homes, and ing 150 permanent jobs. stall, the A2, A249 and A20. to Maidstone Council to build a for the hospital to provide care Mr Cole said recruitment would During a set three-week period hospital on the campus, next to the pathways as part of their progress primarily be local and Cygnet during this spell, bus No 13 into Kent Institute of Medicine and Sur- towards community living. would seek to build strong links Maidstone will terminate at the gery (Kims) on Newnham Court David Cole, chief executive of with local authorities, local educa- Mercure Great Danes Hotel round- Way, off M20 Junction 7. Cygnet Health Care, said: “There tion institutions such as Mid Kent about on the A20. For details of Outline planning permission for is a significant shortfall in mental College, and training providers. these dates, email Nu Venture on the campus was granted in 2014 health service provision across the Cygnet is the largest outsourcing [email protected] and the site has since been adver- UK, and the proposed hospital at provider to the NHS of acute and or 01622 882288. Residents are tised for sale or to let, as a “strategic Kent Medical Campus would be a intensive care mental health serv- asked not to park their cars on the location on the doorstep of London significant step in addressing this ices. road for the duration of the works. Retirement centre cheque BEARSTED Active Retirement Associ- equipment. He added: “We have al- ation (BeARA) has presented a ready bought a bingo machine and £1,000 cheque to Dorothy Goodman we intend to put the rest of the Centre in Egremont Road, Bearsted. money towards a 1950s RemPod – a It is the culmination of three years mobile room setting with a working of fundraising, during which the television and radio playing popular group has donated more than shows of that era.” £3,200 to the centre, open 9.30am Anyone who would like to become to 4pm each weekday, providing a member of BeARA should call respite care for people with demen- Maureen Evans on 01622 630313 or tia. Centre manager Matt Wood said Dave Finch on 01622 738965 for the money will help the purchase of more information. Matt Wood (left) receives the cheque from Dave Finch, chairman of BeARA FREE FITTING ON SELECTED CARPETS 100’s of carpet Weekly FREE payment rolls to clear MEASURING scheme from £10 each SERVICE available

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Waitrose and Gallagher Properties invite you to view and comment on plans for a proposed food store at Eclipse Park at Junction 7 of the in Maidstone There is a public exhibition on: Thursday 4th February 4.00pm - 8.00pm and Friday 5th February 11.00am - 4.00pm *DOODJKHU6LWH2IÀFHV(FOLSVH3DUN%HDUVWHG5RDG 0DLGVWRQH.HQW0((1 3OHDVHFRPHDORQJWRÀQGRXWPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQDQGGLVFXVV the plans with the project team. www.waitrosemaidstone.co.uk

Maidstone East February 2016 13 News downsmail.co.uk Minister comes Reprieve for care home THE threatened Dorothy Lucy Cen- adult social care committee in Jan- tre in Shepway has gained a stay of uary. The decision will now be taken execution. at the March meeting. to Maidstone , which But Cllr Clark, who still wants KCC wanted to close the care home, to scrap the proposal in its entirety, AFTER growing up in Florida, husband Alfred in Florida. He was along with three others in the said: "I am very doubtful that KCC Bonni-Belle Pickard is putting born in India as the son of a county, has had to postpone its final will ever able to replace services like down roots as the minister of Methodist missionary and shared decision because of its inability to for like locally, in an area where de- three Methodist churches in the Bonni’s love for music, which they find alternative care for those using mand is increasing. Maidstone area. both studied at a Methodist univer- the centre. “Day care is a cornerstone of care Picking up from Rev Clifford sity. They married soon after they Although there are few perma- at the centre. In looking for alterna- Newman, who spent graduated. nent residents at the centre, it is tives in the private sector, KCC has five years in the min- The couple widely used for respite and by day received a lukewarm response to its istry, Bonni is getting worked in a church care patients. need to replace day care services used to her new home in Jacksonville be- Following a campaign by resi- provided at the Dorothy Lucy Cen- and responsibilities as fore moving to dents and the local Lib Dem county tre.” the minister for the India to teach music Cllr Brian Clark to save the centre in KCC says the care homes under churches in Union for 20 years. They Northumberland Avenue, KCC de- threat do not meet modern stan- Street, Tonbridge had a family of six ferred the vote scheduled for the dards and are not fit for purpose. Road and in Bearsted. children, including She is also co-super- one they adopted intendent of the North and two whom they Kent Methodist fostered. Driver banned Appeal for gifts Church, which com- After leaving A DRIVER breathalysed in a car prises 27 churches, India in 1998 they AGE UK is urging anyone with un- park in Downswood has been from Dartford, across to the Isle of returned to America for three years, wanted gifts to take them to its Sheppey and down to Maidstone, to Atlanta, Georgia, where Bonni banned from driving for 18 months. shop in Gabriels Hill, Maidstone. where her main office is in Union trained for ministry at Emory Uni- David Matthews (60), from West The shop accepts donations of Street. versity. The couple then moved to Walk, Maidstone, was stopped as new and used items, all of which She will preach at Bearsted the UK, where Bonni served in he drove a camper van in the are re-sold to raise funds for the Church at least once a month, and Birmingham and on the north Lon- grounds of a pub in Spot Lane. He charity’s work for older people. will provide pastoral care and over- don circuit for six years, before be- gave a breath test of 68mg of alco- Manager Mary Kennett said: “It sight for the church, along with her coming the superintendent in hol in 100ml of breath. The legal can be difficult knowing what to colleagues. Kingston upon Thames. limit is 35mg. Matthews pleaded do with gifts you will never use. By Bonni, the eldest daughter of a She is now in Maidstone, where guilty and must also pay a £400 donating them to our shop people United Methodist minister, met her her husband teaches music. fine and £275 costs. are helping a great cause.”

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14 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Leing train take the strain Selling homes in Maidstone since 1982 FIGURES show a significant rise estimates. in the number of people using Figures for other stations in our trains across the region. region (with the previous year’s Latest statistics from the Office of figure in brackets) include: Rail and Road show sharp in- 115,906 (112,666) creases in journeys to and from all 129,926 (127,656) of the area’s stations for the year to Bearsted 396,840 (391,478) March 2015, with only Beltring 13,502 (11,890) showing a dip in rail passengers. 612,206 (607,386) The data offers no suggestions Hollingbourne 46,554 (42,854) PUT YOUR for the rise in rail use in our region, Lenham 108,194 (103,782) indicating only “local event traffic” Maidstone East 1,358,356 as the possible reason for reversing (1,339,752) CONFIDENCE IN the previous year’s decline at Bel- Maidstone West 843,268 (831,718) tring station – still the least used Maidstone Barracks 270,645 station in the area, with an average (266,938) 37 commuters a day. YOUR LOCAL Marden In spite of the combined in- 480,498 (459,402) creases across Maidstone’s three 888,016 (848,158) town centre stations and at West West Malling 782,090 (760,292) PROPERTY AGENT Malling, the number of rail users Yalding 21,604 (22,542) still falls nearly a million short of The estimates of station usage We currently let out over 300 Tonbridge station, which remains consist of the total numbers of peo- the busiest in the region, with more ple travelling to or from the station properties for landlords in than four million users a year. (entries and exits); and interchang- The Estimates of Station Usage, ing at the station. Bearsted and Maidstone with a for all stations in Great Britain, is The figures are based on ticket available on the ORR website at sales. Single and return tickets market value of over £82 million. www.orr.gov.uk/statistics/pub- translate into one and two journeys lished-stats/station-usage- respectively. We know all about responsibility Short cut for charity cash and you can put your trust in us. THIS 10-year-old has plenty to be proud of after raising more than £800 for charity. Bethan Koehler-Price, from Hollingbourne, walked 20 miles along the Pilgrims Way for Children in Need and has had her long hair cut off for Plus we offer charity. After her walk raised £236 Bethan wanted a Testimonials from many bigger challenge. In- spired by a family friend satisfied customers and a television report, she had her hair cut off to provide a wig for chil- Peace of mind dren recovering from chemotherapy. Bethan visited Experienced staff Sweeney Todd’s barbers in Lenham for the spon- sored crop by Tracey Smith, with whom she is pictured. Her hair has now been sent to The Little Princess Trust Charity. As well as donations from friends and family, Bethan raised almost A trusted local company £200 when she was guest of honour at The Dirty Habit pub in Holling- bourne for its annual Hat Night. The money Bethan has raised will be shared between Children in Need Call us today and The Little Princess Trust. Bearsted Office Beetroot trial for lung disease Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ PATIENTS suffering from lung disease at Maidstone Hospital are taking Tel: 01622 737800 part in a ground-breaking trial to discover the benefits of beetroot. The trial is being led by London’s Royal Brompton Hospital – the Office largest specialist heart and lung centre in Britain. Evidence seems to sug- Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN gest that drinking beetroot juice, with its high levels of nitrates, can en- hance blood oxygenation levels, reducing breathlessness and fatigue. About 150 patients are being given 140ml of beetroot juice once a week Tel: 01622 671200 for two months to assess the impact. Dr Syed Husain is leading the tri- als for the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Trust. www.ferrisandco.net

Maidstone East February 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk Club closure cuts income Listing inspector visits PARENTS and the parish council at Hollingbourne have been dis- mayed by the closure of the vil- green’s threatened shops lage’s popular After School Club at the Cardwell Pavilion. Apart from the loss to the village HISTORIC England has sent an inspector to check out Bearsted Parade of a key service to families, coun- on The Green. cillors say they will need to review the financial implications for the The Bearsted and Thurnham So- hall of the loss of a key tenant. The ciety stepped up its efforts to get only other regular users are the shops listed after the owners Hollingbourne FC and the pre- submitted a new application to school group, which meets week- have it demolished and rebuilt to Protestors day mornings during term time. Maidstone Council . outside the Michelle Archer, a registered Members believe that as well as threatened losing a building of historic and ar- childminder in Detling – who re- shops on chitectural interest, demolition of ceived an outstanding Ofsted rat- Bearsted ing in 2015 – had run the satellite the shops will lead to loss of vital businesses, as W.J. Crouch (“Rick- Green service at the hall for a year, but has would take up to 18 months and Tracey Crouch, who said Historic now decided because of her in- woods”) would have to relocate and might not return. Cllr John Hughes was concerned England would make a recommen- creased workload to base the club that the newsagent’s shop would dation to her department following solely at her family home. After a redevelopment proposal was withdrawn a year ago, Historic be sorely missed by local people. their visit. Hollingbourne Parish Council is England said it could not consider The parish council is to consider Mrs Grant said: “I know Tracey keen to hear from anyone inter- listing as a priority when there was the feasibility of providing a “pop- will take great care in reviewing the ested in hiring the Cardwell Pavil- no active planning application, but up” community shop, similar to recommendation she receives from ion. For details, call the parish clerk now the revised plan has been sub- those at and Historic England on its listing. I Vicki Smith on 01622 880526. mitted, it is investigating. , which will keep in contact with her, as Historic England’s fast-track could be placed close to or on The well as with the Bearsted and Team on move process can cost between £3,000 Green, or near the station or library. Thurnham Society in the coming The parish council believes the months, to make sure we get the A NEW netball group at Park and £8,000, which the society felt it could not afford. However, it was application should be refused be- right decision and save the parade Wood has proved so popular it has delighted to learn that Historic cause the shops are an iconic part for future generations. already outgrown its home. England had moved swiftly. of Bearsted Green and the develop- “Any new building would likely The Tuesday evening club, which Although the parish council is ment will harm the conservation spoil the charm of the area. The started out at Heather House, has among the plethora of people op- area. Councillors also believe the shopkeepers are worried that a now moved to Cornwallis Acad- posed to the plans and hopes plan- proposed replacement is poorly de- new building would mean higher emy, beginning at 7.30pm. ning consent will be refused by signed and has inadequate car rents in future, making it unafford- The new term begins in January Maidstone Council, it is to consider parking. able for them. It would be sad to and the cost remains £1 a week. a contingency plan for the provi- Maidstone MP Helen Grant has see local businesses replaced by a Ladies of all ages and abilities are sion of a newsagent. been in contact with parliamentary Tesco Metro or some other national welcome. Re-construction of the shops under-secretary for heritage, MP chain.” The sessions are funded by Kent Sport, Maidstone Council and the Fusion Healthy Living Centre. Qualified coach Stephanie Ed- Drivers warned of thefts from cars wards takes the sessions. Info – POLICE are warning motorists Three of the reported thefts oc- have as many as nine such inci- Aimee Bartlett on 07872 933097. not to leave valuables in their cars curred on Boxley Road, while two dents committed in such a short after nine vehicles were broken were in Coltsfoot Drive. space of time and we are not rul- Speed trap into in Maidstone – seven of them The others were reported in ing out the possibility that some of on the same night. Wordsworth Road, Sandling these may be linked.” POLICE have punished speeding Items taken included laptops, Lane, Byron Road, Eyhorne Green She reminded residents of drivers in Ashford Road, Bearsted. mobile phones, sat navs and and Dover Street on December 9 measures to reduce the chances of Following several complaints power tools, with windows and 10. becoming a victim of crime, in- from about early morning com- smashed on some cars to get in, Inspector Jody Gagan-Cook, cluding parking in well-lit areas, muters, set up a speed but advantage taken of others left from the Maidstone community locking doors and removing valu- trap which caught six vehicles trav- unlocked. safety unit, said: “It is very rare to ables. elling along the road at about 6am. Ex-police offer DIY service you can trust RETIRED police officers with a pas- munities. Handyman Dave Hogg said: "I sion for home maintenance and All of the Blue handymen have to was a police officer for 32 years and gardening are taking up tools to prove themselves capable and ex- there was rarely a day when I did- give peace of mind to residents and perienced in home maintenance be- n't deal with, or hear about, mem- businesses in Maidstone and the fore joining the network and all are bers of the local community being surrounding villages. interviewed and DBS (CRB) ripped off by rogue tradesmen. The Blue Local Handymen checked. “Working with Blue gives me the scheme has been operating in parts Blue project MD Nick Orde- opportunity to redress the balance of Kent for the past year and moves Powlett, said: "Our vetting process and provide local people with a into the Maidstone area in Febru- is second to none. All of our handy- service they know they can trust.” ary. It is an attempt to combat the men are friendly retired police offi- For more details and and free problems caused by cowboy Most police officers retire after 30 cers with many years working in quotes go to www.trustinblue.com. builders and dodgy tradesmen, years service and many are still the community under their belt – Bookings can be made by phone on using the services of ex-policemen eager to continue playing an active and they understand people’s con- 0800 2550255 or you can email and women who have skills in DIY. and productive role in their com- cerns better than anyone else." [email protected].

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Maidstone East February 2016 17 News downsmail.co.uk More funds for town museum MAIDSTONE Council is to pump an additional £125,000 into the town’s museum after another funding blow. Despite an annual budget, ex- delivery and growth of a sustain- full-time museums director, who cluding staff costs, of £260,000, able museum service”. could earn more than £48,000, Maidstone Museum and Bentlif Art An additional £353,000 capital when the current arrangement of a Gallery in St Faith’s Street is fore- works programme will take place shared museums manager with cast to lose £60,000 in the year be- during the next two years, which Tunbridge Wells Council finishes at ginning March 2016. will include refurbishing an old ed- the end of March. It will have overspent by more ucation room to double the capac- Meanwhile, work is already on- than £9,000 by the end of this ity for children’s parties. going to improve the east wing re- March – a figure that would have Shared museums manager Jo ception, which will involve moving been much higher but for the suc- Wiltcher said: “One of our best in- the reception desk. cess of the Brick City Lego-building Although the council is aiming to come generators is children’s par- A report to the council’s heritage, attraction last summer. make savings of £1.63m in 2016/17, ties. We are fully booked most culture and leisure committee said: Now the council, which manages the increased budget for the mu- weekends and the additional space “The current desk is poorly located, the museum, is to lose more money seum, which will be spread over will double our income.” creating a pinch point for visitors when the Arts Council’s four-year three years, was agreed by the pol- Other suggested works are to im- entering the building and creating education programme finishes in icy and resources committee. prove the cafe and exterior. a situation where staff who are March, ending an annual grant of It will fund the education pro- Resources have already been serving in the shop have their backs £108,000 per year. gramme and “enable the continued identified to fund the new post of a to customers entering the site.” 78% of pupils Festival that put town on map hiing targets LAST year’s Ramblin’ Man fair What’s On listings and from peo- The council has created a new MORE than three-quarters of pri- might have roused tempers in the ple seeking accommodation and parks e-newsletter, in addition to mary school pupils in the Maidstone residential roads around Mote things to do. its museum promotions and will area are meeting government key Park, but it certainly put Maid- An email marketing campaign soon announce the launch of its targets in reading, English and stone on the worldwide map. targeting more than 66,000 recipi- historic interpretation panels, maths. The Visit Maidstone website re- ents had revealed open rates be- which will be situated across the The annual standard assessment ceived more than 308,000 hits tween 12 and 72%. town. test results (SATs) reveal that 78% of from 150 countries in the past children achieved the targets in all year – many of which were three subjects, up 8% on last year. prompted by enquiries about the The Government expects all pri- heavy metal rock ‘n’ roll event. It’s back with a new line-up mary schools to make sure at least Laura Dickson, from Maid- THE Ramblin’ Man Fair returns on Under new management, a 65% of pupils attain level four. stone’s tourism, culture and her- July 23-24 to Mote Park in spokesman for event organiser In Maidstone, 87% of children itage department, said hits on the Maidstone with a weekend of rock Spirit of Rock said year two of made the grade in reading and writ- website came from the USA, for music fans. Ramblin’ Man Fair would be bigger ing. The figure was 83% for maths. France, Germany and the Nether- Headline bands include and better, with an emphasis on At Mereworth Primary School lands as well as from little-heard Whitesnake on the Saturday and great food and drink and the 100% of pupils attained level four in of countries much further afield. Black Stone Cherry on Sunday, “colourful world of rock culture”. all three areas, with 73% of them Most visitors had accessed the with a tribute performance from Other acts include Airbourne, reaching level five in reading. site via their mobile phones or Thin Lizzy, featuring guest Ginger Wildheart, The Graveltones, At St John’s School, Grove Green, tablets now that the new website drummer Mikkey Dee, from Von Hertzen Brothers, Blurred 97% attained level four across the was fully responsive on all de- Motorhead. Other offerings include Vision, The Fierce And The Dead, IO board and 75% of pupils were at vices, she told the town centre Uriah Heep, Hawkwind, Europe Earth, The White Buffalo, Life Signs, level five in reading. Several schools marketing group meeting. and Procol Harum. Hayseed Dixie and King King. notched up more than 90% across The most visited pages were the the three core subjects, including Kingswood Primary School, Oaks Academy in Mangravet, Palace Wood at Allington, Loose and Play tackles hard topic and succeeds Roseacre, Bearsted. KCC’s cabinet member for educa- Whose Life is it Anyway?' right as Nurse Kay and Michael tion, Roger Gough, said: “These are Willington Players, Hazlitt JOHN Kurtay was a cheeky porter. extremely good figures, especially as Theatre MUNSON Penny Baines and Tony O'Leary Key Stage 2 is an area where we THIS was an impressive produc- were the two most involved have been relatively weak. There are tion in every way. It was not an SHOW medics. We shared their doubts clear signs that we are moving in the easy choice for the group, but TIME about how best to deal with the right direction, thanks to the hard Richard Pilborough is a director wishes of the disabled patient. work of heads, teachers and the chil- with a very successful record ical professionals. Written by The legal decision was eventu- dren themselves.” who gave us another success. Brian Clark and first produced in ally made at the bedside by Ed- The set would have been impres- 1978 in the West End, it is to say wina Bicker, with aplomb, as sive in Canterbury's Marlowe the least, a controversial subject. Justice Millhouse. Others on the Road closed Theatre. Stuart Chapman was A superb cast handled the ar- cast roll of honour must be Tony, THERE will be no access to Honey Ken Harrison, a paraplegic who guments with great skill and Sheila, Janice, Matt, Jeanette, Lane, for through traffic be- wants to die. He spends the sensitivity. Debbie Mason ex- Richard and Catherine. tween the junctions with Simmonds whole wonderful performance in celled in portraying a believable A triumph for The Willing- Lane and Avery Lane for five days bed arguing his case with med- matron. Laura Cusack was just tons. from February 29, for kerbing work. The alternative route is via White Horse Lane, Gore Court Road, A274 For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk Sutton Road and New Road.

18 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk News New cafe boost to Mote Park

AN “iconic” cafe and visitors cen- for future events.” One option could be to install a tre is set to be built as part of a Also included in the plan is a skate park near the leisure centre. £3.96m bid to improve Maid- £790,000 adventure zone, new Officers believe the research stone’s Mote Park. maintenance area, new paths and behind the plan – entitled “A sus- Maidstone Council’s policy and formalised overspill parking areas tainable future for Mote Park” – resources committee agreed to the to accommodate up to 350 more ve- will “maximise operational and capital investment, which would hicles. There will be at least two commercial opportunities” at the see the new £2.5m cafe, managed separate toilet areas. park. in-house and repositioned for However, the scheme will see the Councillors heard that progress views of the lake. The existing cafe, Skate park is set to be removed permanent removal of the skate had already been made by bringing which, as well as the public toilets, containing four times more floor- park, though officers are to investi- the management of the cafe back in was most criticised by a recent res- space than the existing cafe. gate an alternative site in the park. house and through the impending idents’ survey, would be removed. Cllr Annabelle Blackmore, leader Cllr John Perry said: “Skate parks introduction of parking charges. A design competition will be of the Conservative group, said: exist very happily in rural areas A consultant has been appointed held, with the council confident “To have a brand new iconic build- and are very popular. I would like to prepare and submit a planning that notable architects will be keen ing for a cafe really will help to put to keep a skate park somewhere be- application for the adventure zone to create a high-quality building Maidstone on the map, especially cause it is a well-used facility.” on the council’s behalf. Bid for flag Firewalk to boost hospice fund Library plan MAIDSTONE is hoping to raise the KCC PLANS to save £150,000 by Purple flag for another year. THE Heart of Kent Hospice is inviting people to walk across hot reducing mobile library stops. The accreditation for the quality coals to raise money for the charity. The county council wants to cut of the twilight and night-time econ- The hospice has 100 places for budding firewalkers to take the the least-used of the 651 stops omy, was awarded to the town two 5m stroll across coals that can reach up to 650 degrees Celsius. made by the 11 mobile libraries to years ago. Five major and The fire walk takes place in Jubilee Square, Maidstone at 7pm on reduce its £367,000 annual outlay. clubs have since closed, but there Friday March 4, and is managed by a highly experienced team for Analysis showed that 368 stops are more restaurants. whom the safety of the walkers is the top priority. had an average of two visitors or Maidstone Town Centre change Entry is limited to those aged over 18 and the entry fee is £25, with fewer. The proposed routes will see co-ordinator Ilsa Butler said: a minimum sponsorship requirement of £100. more than half the stops increasing “There has been a growth in the To book a place, call fundraising on 01622 790195 or go to their stopping time and the service night time economy but it reflects www.hokh.org. moving to a Tuesday-Saturday the change in tastes and demand.” schedule. The town was due to submit its www.downsmail.co.uk See how stops could affect youat application by the end of January. For more local news www.kent.gov.uk/consultations. Your child’s future starts Day Nursery School Est. 1989 here... Nursery School Out of School & Holiday Club New places available

7 Reasons To Choose Linden Lea For YOUR Childcare We offer term time/full time Nursery School places between 8-6 for 3 months onwards and an After School Club/Holiday Club for 4-14 year olds to 6:30. 1. Are you looking for flexible childcare? We offer 8-1, 9-1, 9-3, 1-6 and all sorts of possible scenarios! 2. Are you looking for a homely feel? We pride ourselves on our homely environment. 3 months to 3. Are you looking for reasonable costs? We offer great value for money. Pre-School 4. Are you looking for a setting offering Free for 2/3/4 childcare? You have found it! 5. Are you looking for quality? Our Day Nursery School is rated Outstanding in every area Home to Home by Ofsted and the Downswood Nursery and After School Club rated Good. Environment 6. Are you looking for an easily accessible childcare provider? Both our locations are near the M20 with good bus routes too. 7. Are you looking for a setting with large outdoor area? You have found it! Day Nursery School in Grove Green ME14 5JR open 8-6, with 8-1, 1-6, 9-3 and all sorts in between term time/all year from 3 months old. CALL / Downswood Nursery in ME15 8XG open 9:20-12:20 or 9-1 term times for 2-5 year olds. EMAIL NOW After School Club based in Downswood open until 6:30 FROM £13.30 including to see why your child's cooked tea picking up from Madginford, Thurnham, Roseacre and St John's schools. future should start here on Holiday Club 8:30-6:30 at £18 half day 01622 735094 / [email protected] or £31 full days. No registration fee when mentioning this advert.

Maidstone East February 2016 19 A traditional country pub offering great food, an open log fire and a Dining KA truly warm welcome THE KINGS ARMS Full selection of real ales Out Bar and Restaurant Open all day for food - 7 days a week As Valentines Day approaches everyone. Where possible, all All food is homemade why not treat the one you love to food is sourced locally and the and cooked to order from a romantic meal at one of your majority of it is homemade. Even locally supplied produce local eateries. Savour some of the the baristas have been trained by great seasonal produce being Roasted of Brighton. The kitchen Large beer garden served and take advantage of prides itself on offering excellent Free local courtesy some excellent special offers. customer service. Feel free to pop in and try what Aunt Sally's has to transport available for If it’s a delicious meal in front of a diners. Please enquire for cosy log fire then The Kings offer. further details Arms at Boxley is definitely the This year Marino’s Fish and Chip place for you. The traditional Shop & Restaurant celebrates 50 Now taking bookings for country-dining pub serves real ale years of serving up top quality and a seasonal menu using fresh fish and chips. Marino’s was VALENTINES local ingredients. Food is served established in Maidstone in 1966 all day, 7 days a week. The pubs and under the ownership of DAY cosy interior features red Donda Michaelas has forged an Book early to avoid chesterfield sofas, exposed beams excellent reputation. Fish is disappointment and a roaring log fire offering a obviously their speciality however perfect warm welcome on a cold there is a wide variety of other winters day or night. Treat the dishes on the menu too including one you love to a romantic meal 01622 755177 kebabs, chicken & lamb doners, and book now for Valentines Day. The Street, Boxley, Maidstone ME14 3DR burgers, chicken and jacket www.thekingsarmsmaidstone.co.uk E: [email protected] Aunt Sally's Kitchen in Allington potatoes. The shop, conveniently offers you a warm welcome. located on the Ashford Road in ‘Certificate of Whether you are looking for Bearsted also offers free home Excellence breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea delivery on orders over £15 within 2013/’14/’15 Aunt Sally's has something for a 5 mile radius.

AUNT SALLY’S KITCHEN 01622 01622 Family Run Cafe 737081 631111 Restaurant & Deliveries Takeaway IPS • Mid Kent Shopping Centre - Allington & CH KEBA FISH BS Come and visit our friendly family run Established in 1966 cafe. Serving good quality home cooked food in comfortable surroundings. Celebrating 50 years of We pride ourselves on using locally sourced serving the finest fish & chips food including Rickwoods of Bearsted. We offer a full range of breakfasts, light •Charcoal Shish kebabs lunches, home cooked hot meals, homemade cakes, snacks and much more. •Tasty lamb & To top it all our customer service chicken doners is second to none. • Wraps •Fish & Chips • Free Wifi • Free Parking plus all your • Take Away usual Opening Times favourites Monday to Saturday Find us at:- 8.00am til 4.00pm Ashford Road,

Sunday 01622 297271 Bearsted, (Between 5-10pm, 9.00am til 1.00pm within a 5 mile radius) Find us on Facebook Maidstone FREE DELIVERYdelivery on orders*Orders oversubject less tothan£15*charge £2.50 £15 20 Maidstone East February 2016 Dining Out

Treat your loved one this year to a club facilities, breakfast and late romantic evening at the Mercure check out. Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. The popular hotel located just Corpus Christi Hall in Earl Street outside of town in Hollingbourne is a beautiful 12th Century will be serving a three course building, in the heart of Valentine meal with a glass of Maidstone, offering the perfect bubbly for £29.95 per person. backdrop to any event with its Soak up the atmosphere in the historical charm and character. contemporary restaurant. Choose With the capacity to cater for 50 to from a selection of mouth- 120 'sit down' guests, and 300 on watering dishes prepared using non-seated events, it's perfect for fresh ingredients and locally- wedding receptions, special sourced produce. To complement occasions, celebrations, corporate your meal, choose from the and other events. The excellence extensive selection of fine wines; of cuisine, quality and value for from Australia to Italy there's money provides all guests with an something to suit every palate. occasion which is one to Finally, indulge in a delicious remember. Why not treat the one dessert before sitting back, you love this Valentine’s Day to a relaxing and allowing the great night out – the exclusive experienced and helpful venue is holding a dinner and restaurant team to provide you dance including a 3 course meal, with everything you need. glass of prosecco & Perhaps upgrade and stay complimentary music by ‘New overnight, for £130 per couple Vintage’ all for just £29.95 per including the 3 course meal, a head. Call now to book your table glass of bubbly, use of the health – 01622 670011 CORPUS CHRISTI HALL KENT’S BEST KEPT SECRET The most beautiful venue for any type of event Wedding • Signature Wedding Fair Receptions 6th March 2016 11am - 4pm • Stylish Events Free Entry & Celebrations • Corporate Delegate Days Treat the one you love this Valentines Day Our beautiful 12th Century Hall offers the perfect romantic setting. Sat 13th February - Dinner & Dance £29.95 per person including a glass of prosecco and complimentary music by ‘New Vintage’.

The Corpus Christi Hall Earl Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1JP Maidstone’s www.corpuschristihall.com Exclusive Venue T: 01622 670011 E: [email protected]

Maidstone East February 2016 21 News downsmail.co.uk Solar scheme SOLAR panels are going up on Village Hall, which Sheltered flats plan could prove to be a money-spinner for the village. The Harrietsham project gained most votes out of projects in the re- gion competing for a Marks & to replace offices Spencer Energy Award and re- ceived £12,500 towards the scheme. A PLAN to demolish offices on a A further £60,000 from Maid- prominent site in the centre of stone Council and £5,000 from KCC Maidstone to make way for a Cllr Jenny Whittle’s members’ “contemporary” apartment block grant has allowed the hall to up- for the elderly has been received grade its bar and facilities and in- by Maidstone Council. stall the 40-panel solar system. The proposal for 28 one- and The panels could generate up to two-bedroom self-contained flats at £50,000 over their lifespan. Chaucer House – on the corner of The hall has gone from near- Priory Road and Knightrider Street bankruptcy a year ago to being a – suggests a three- or, possibly, much-used village amenity. four- storey L-shape development. Lewis and Hickey, the architect for applicant McCarthy and Stone Concert date Retirement Lifestyles, says pro- An artist’s impression of the proposed flats at Chaucer House A CONCERT of popular classical tected lime trees on the site would within the confines of the listed the All Saints’ Conservation Area music will raise money for Heart of need to be grubbed, but the listed wall and relates to the adjacent con- and the quality of the design Kent Hospice at Invicta Grammar 8ft ragstone wall would remain. servation area,” adding: “It is our should be commensurate with this School on February 27, 2016. While recognising the site sits on intention that the scheme reflects location.” The Heart of Kent Orchestra, con- a busy junction, close to listed the key local characteristics in a Other materials proposed in- ducted by Thomas Shelburn, will buildings such as All Saints’ C of E modern approach that is of its time, clude buff bricks, colour insets, a present well-known pieces includ- School, The College Gateway and avoiding the mistakes of some of contemporary flat roof and project- ing the James Bond piano concerto, parish church, it suggests access via the more modern developments ing gable ends. the Frank Sinatra piano concerto Priory Road would ease congestion that rely rather on a pastiche ap- The apartment block would have and the Serpent concerto. and a contemporary style as the proach.” 21 parking spaces, landscaped Tickets for the concert, which most appropriate design for the More ragstone has been intro- grounds, lifts to all floors, a guest starts at 7.30pm, are £12 (£8 for chil- building. duced into the scheme following room and communal facilities for dren). Go to www.hokh.org, call In a report to council planners, comments from the council’s case those aged over 60. The applicant 01622 790195 or email fundrais- Lewis and Hickey says: “The aim is officer, who noted: “The site is in a also proposes closing off the cur- [email protected]. that the building sits comfortably prominent location and adjacent to rent entrance on Knightrider Street.

22 Maidstone East February 2016 Maidstone Borough Council UpdateBorough East, February 2016

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www.maidstone.gov.uk 2 Maidstone Borough Council Did You Know?

On 18 November, we joined councils across the country for #OurDay, a 24 hour tweetathon to showcase a day in the life of local government. The day was a chance to find out more about some of the dozens of services that we We sweep 20,000 miles deliver, from parks of road each year and planning to housing and recycling, and we had some great feedback from residents on the day. You can follow us on Twitter at @maidstonebc We dealt with 180 reports of fly-tipping Our rubbish trucks between July and visit more than September 2015 We collected 80 stray 60,000 properties dogs in 3 months over every week the summer - almost one a day There are more than 7000 visits to our website every day, and more than 700 calls to the contact centre

Introducing Digby! Dog Watch We've been working with residents to tackle dog fouling in Maidstone, and it's having a marked impact! Our Dog Watch campaign asks residents to report dog fouling to us so that we can spot patterns and target our resources most Our RK9 mascot finally effectively. We send enforcement has a name! We've been officers to hotspots to try and asking residents to catch the irresponsible few who submit their ideas, and don't pick up after their dogs, are delighted to using information from residents announce that Dawn about when and where dog fouling Ramsey's suggestion is happening - and sometimes "Digby" has been even descriptions of the culprits chosen! Digby will be out and about in the borough so that we know who to look out promoting and for. celebrating responsible Since we introduced Dog Watch, dog ownership, and you we've gone from issuing 3 fines in can keep up with him 2012/13 to issuing 10 since April and the RK9: 2015, which shows how important Responsible Canine the information you provide is. Ownership campaign, on the Facebook page at It's extremely hard to catch and www.facebook.com/ fine irresponsible dog owners - Responsiblek9s they're far more likely to pick up after their dogs if there are people around, and especially if they've seen an enforcement officer - but with your support, we're proving Changes to Dog Microchipping Law that there is a price to be paid! From 6 April 2016, the law is changing and you must have your dog Report dog fouling to us at microchipped. Get advice on microchipping from your vet, or from www.maidstone.gov.uk/report organisations including Dogs Trust and the RSPCA. Maidstone Borough Council 3

Threads looking bare? Use our textile recycling service! Did you know that you can recycle your clothes, textiles Please and shoes from home? remember, we To take part, simply follow these steps: will collect textile 1. Put your clothes and shoes into a standard sized items on your carrier bag RECYCLING collection day. 2. Tie up the bag 3. Place the bag NEXT to your green recycling bin or blackbox on your recycling collection day 4. Remember! Please do not put any clothes, textiles or shoes INSIDE your recycling bin or box — they must be kept separate in order to be recycled. We are unable to collect pillows and duvets, and we are unable to accept any items bagged in black sacks or charity bags. You can also take good quality items to local charity shops.

Councillor Marion Ring, Chairman of the Communities, Housing and Environment Committee, gets ready for The Big Love Maidstone Food Waste Challenge. Kent, Resolve to Hate reduce your Litter, waste! Each year, many of us resolve to lose 4 - 6 weight, floss more and better ourselves in some way but this year, March why not resolve to be kinder and gentler to our planet? You may find 2016 it’s much easier (and more sustainable) than other resolutions you might have made! If you aren’t already, why not try recycling your food waste with our Join us from Friday 4 - Sunday 6 March for special clean-up weekly food waste collection service? events, activities and competitions across the borough in Simply collect food waste scraps and dispose of them in your small kitchen conjunction with Keep Britain Tidy, ‘Love Kent, Hate Litter’ caddy then once full, empty it into and ‘Clean for the Queen’. your external food waste bin ready for weekly collection. The food will Keep Britain Tidy has recently launched a ‘Clean for The Queen’ campaign actually spend less time in your (www.cleanforthequeen.co.uk) to help celebrate Her Majesty's forthcoming kitchen compared to using a larger 90th birthday. The campaign encourages people to get involved with the UK’s kitchen bin! If you need a food waste biggest ever clean-up, designed to make the places we live more beautiful. bin, these can be ordered online at Food packaging, plastic bottles, takeaway meals and cigarette butts have all www.maidstone.gov.uk or by calling contributed to a growing menace that affects our wildlife, streets and our customer contact centre on countryside. To coincide with the national project and to add to our civic pride, 01622 602600. Maidstone Borough Council is hoping to arrange a number of special clean up Don’t forget to sign up to The Big events, activities and competitions in conjunction with local community groups Maidstone Food Waste Challenge, over the special weekend in March. which promotes using the food waste We’re looking for community groups who would like to get involved by hosting bin rather than simply putting food their own events or providing a small army of volunteers. We will provide waste into the rubbish bin. Find out support and guidance to help organise the event and where possible, will more at provide equipment such as litter pickers and bags. We’re also looking for www.maidstone.gov.uk/foodwastechal businesses who can help in a number of ways including sponsoring an activity lenge including how you could win or donating a prize for our competitions. tickets to Maidstone Leisure Centre To get involved, contact Martyn Jeynes, Operations Manager, or a gift voucher for the Mall at [email protected] or on 01622 602110. Chequers shopping centre. 4 Maidstone Borough Council Our Plan for Maidstone Borough

Thousands commented on and helped develop the Maidstone Borough Local Plan - our plan for homes, jobs, shopping, leisure and the environment, as well as infrastructure such as roads, up to 2031. As we begin the final developments outside those that are not stage of consultation, this feature sets out the facts so far. suitable for our communities. Our Local Plan proposes that less than 1% of our countryside is allocated for development. We give priority to brownfield (previously developed) sites and have been very successful in developing them - in the six years to 2014/15, nearly 84% of housing development was on brownfield sites. This means that there aren't many left now available for development, but we will keep an eye on the situation to make sure that the Local Plan is kept up-to-date as new sites come up. Policies will protect and improve open spaces and the countryside and woodlands that we cherish, with their huge range of flora, fauna and other and required community infrastructure Homes and open space; any planning application would need to meet the We must plan for the housing needs of policy to be approved. current and future Maidstone residents, providing enough homes for The Plan includes policies to provide all ages, needs and incomes. affordable homes, and plans to provide 960 care and nursing bed spaces for Maidstone's objectively-assessed the elderly by 2031 - some of which housing need - the number of homes have already been provided. required for our future population as identified, reviewed and agreed by Countryside and Open independent experts - for the twenty years up to 2031 is 18,560 new homes. Spaces More than 9,000 of those have already The best way to protect our been built or have planning countryside is to allocate specific sites permission. A further 3,500 are in for development, so that we can fight broad locations in Maidstone town centre, Maidstone Barracks and wildlife. Developers will be expected to Lenham - these sites are for potential pay towards things like play areas, future development after 2026. public open spaces and sports pitches. The Local Plan identifies locations for The Environment Agency assesses the the remaining 6,000 homes needed for flood risk for all sites, and it has not residents by 2031. We refer to these objected to any of those that made it into locations as "allocated sites" and they the draft plan - many other sites were are where we would allow housing rejected. Before any houses are built, development. There is a policy for each there will be a full assessment and individual site which includes things schemes prepared to prevent flooding like the acceptable housing density on as part of the planning application the site, where access would be from, process. Maidstone Borough Council 5

Employment and Economic Development A strong local economy, with the opportunity for businesses to expand and develop, is important if we are to maintain and create jobs for Maidstone residents. We want to create 14,400 jobs by 2031 by helping new start-ups and encouraging existing businesses to expand. We will attract new firms to the area as well as stimulating the town centre economy, and have allocated sites for employment within the Plan to help support the growing population.

Infrastructure For certain major applications, developers are required to contribute to the cost of infrastructure improvements necessary to mitigate the impact of that particular development. These include: Roads - KCC Highways and MBC are working on a joint Integrated Transport Strategy to improve roads, public transport and walking and cycling provision.

February 2016 Consultation Nearly 3,000 people took part in our public consultations in 2014 and 2015 which focussed on getting the content of the plan right - from which sites should be allocated for development, to what the policies that guide planning applications should contain. The next consultation - "Regulation 19" - is to check the draft plan meets the Schools - we are working with Kent four tests required by government guidance: County Council to meet future demand, Have we planned for the borough's housing, employment and infrastructure including making sure policies for needs? particular sites include provision for Is the plan based on sound evidence? new or extended schools. Can it be delivered by 2031? Sewerage capacity - all new homes will Is it consistent with national policy, and does it enable sustainable need adequate water and sewerage development? capacity, and Southern Water has not objected to any of the sites in the draft This means the consultation will be checking that the plan is sound - rather plan to indicate that this wouldn't be than revisiting the site allocations or policies, which have been consulted on possible. Separately to this process, we and agreed. have been working with MPs, Southern The consultation will run for six weeks from 5 February and is open to everyone Water and other agencies to find - whether you've commented before or not. Visit solutions to existing problems. www.maidstone.gov.uk/consultation to take part. You can also view the documents at the Gateway on King Street and at all libraries, and send comments to [email protected] or to the Spatial Policy Team, Maidstone House, King Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JQ. Next Steps The consultation responses will be considered by councillors in April and, if no major changes are needed, the Plan will be submitted for the Examination in Public. If the Planning Inspector agrees, after this process, that the Plan is sound and appropriate, it will be put before the Full Council of 55 Maidstone Borough Councillors for adoption. News from the MUSEUM The Magic of Masks and Puppets

If you haven’t yet visited our free exhibition, ‘The Magic of Masks and Puppets’, do come in and enjoy the range of puppets from around the world, and act out a nursery rhyme on our beautiful stage with the masks and props provided. The show closes on 20 February. Ever wanted to create your own puppet and bring it to life? Nationally renowned puppet company, Strangeface, will be at the museum on 30 January to help you do just that, in an all day workshop from 10:30-16:30 - ideal for those interested in puppetry and keen to discover new techniques and materials! Places are limited (£40.00 per person) and you must be 14 or over.

Woman of Genius Museum Lates From 5 March our new Our Museum Lates take place exhibition is on the last Thursday of every ‘Woman of Genius’. month (except February), Highlighting the female when we’re open till 9pm. In artists who have quietly March, our Museum Late is proved the quote "A ‘Material Girls’, when we’ll be woman of genius does looking at the women not exist; if she explorers, collectors and does, she must be donors who have contributed to the museum’s collections over a man” quite wrong, the last 150 years. In April, our curators will be taking visitors this exhibition features objects from the 16th Century on a journey through our internationally important Japanese onwards from the museum’s collections alongside collections. original artwork by Vicki Cooke. In celebration of this new exhibition and International Women's Day, costume historian Lee Ault will show and talk about how women’s garments have constrained them through time, on 12 March from 14:00-15:00. Tickets are £5/£4 concessions.

Easter Holidays Join us for an Easter Egg Hunt around February Half Term the museum - solve the clues, collect the answers, then collect Activities your prize! 50p per child. There are four one-hour sessions between 10:30 There will be colouring sheets and a and 15:00 each day — book your child’s place on the day! selection of The following cost £3 per child or 2 for £5: trails available around the Monday — Nature Wednesday — Superheroes museum, and Thursday — Mystery Friday — Japanese don't forget Tuesday is a special activity - be inspired by the our Spike iPad trail. museum and design a t-shirt to wear away with you! £3.50 per child or 2 for £6.

More information on all upcoming exhibitions and events can be found at www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk Bookings via 01622 602838. Maidstone Borough Council 7 Universal Credit E-billing is on its way Council tax bills will be sent out in March — if you’d rather get yours by email than receive another Universal Credit is being rolled out in paper bill, sign up at Maidstone – you will be contacted when this www.maidstone.gov.uk/emailbilling. affects you, but it’s worth being prepared! This not only means you don’t have to store another hard copy bill somewhere, but it’s better Universal credit is the new benefit for all working age people – not pensioners - who are unemployed or on a low income. It for the environment, and it helps us to achieve will replace housing benefit, income support (IS), jobseeker’s some of the savings we have to make following allowance (JSA), employment and support allowance (ESA), further Government funding cuts. child tax credit and working tax credit. Universal credit will be updated automatically according to how much you have been paid, and new claimants have to Get Ready commit to finding work. 1. Universal Credit will be a single monthly payment – start planning your spending monthly, and get advice about Budgeting monthly paying outstanding bills or debts. 2. Money will be paid into a bank account – so make sure that Universal Credit will be paid monthly. For you have one. Try Kent Savers (www.kentsavers.co.uk or help on budgeting monthly and other free, 0333 321 9050) if you’ve struggled to get a bank account in independent money advice visit – the past. 3. Most people will make and manage their claim online – so www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk. you will need an email address. Internet access is available in the Gateway on King Street, or in your local library. Boot Bank Launched to Help People Into Work Maidstone Borough Borroough CounCouncil Change in circumstance?circumstance? SaveSave time, rreporteport it online MakMakee our servicservicee suit yyou...ou... wherwhereverever youyou areare and wheneverwhenever youyou want.want. It’s now quicker and easier to report a change which may affect how much benefit you get. Use your smart phone, tablet or other device to get in touch, 24 hours a day, at a time that suits you - not just when our offices are open. To help unemployed people back into work, we have launched a “boot bank” to loan people work boots that they can pay for later. We launched the scheme after we found ONLINE PROOFSPROOFS that some homeless people were being offered work, but 1 FORMS 2 REF. N0. 3 couldn’t afford the equipment needed to take on the job. 9 PRPROOFSOOFS Construction company Faithdean kick-started the scheme with a donation of ten pairs of work boots, and now whenever someone gets into work and is able to pay us back for their boots, we’ll use that money to buy new boots ready to help someone else. Visit the website: Fill out the form: TTaake and upload Councillor Marion Ring, Chairman of our Communities, Visit www.maidstone. You’ll need your benefit a photo: Housing and Environment Committee, said: “Some of the govv..uk/benefits and reference number Use your smart phone barriers that people face to get back into work can be very choose the form you which is on the top right or device to take and simple to overcome with just a little innovative thinking, need. of the letters we send upload a photo of your and the Boot Bank has the potential to really help some of you. proofs - if you need those in most need in the borough. We’re particularly them. grateful to Faithdean for their support in launching the scheme.” AnAnyy place,place, anyany time that suits you...you... Those people using the scheme in the first instance will be those with a local connection who have been referred by 24hrshrs local support agencies. /day//day If your company is able to donate boots or Personal Protective Equipment to the scheme, please contact [email protected] www.maidstone.gov.uk/benefitswww.maidstone.gov.uk/benefits 8 Maidstone Borough Council

Adventure Zone A survey of residents and visitors in 2014 found that people were interested in paid-for adventure activities in the park, so councillors agreed, in February 2015, to create an Adventure Zone! This will include high rope courses, climbing walls,

A Sustainable adventure golf and Segways, Future for Mote Park improving the offer at Mote Park by giving a wider range of activities at lower prices than many similar Maidstone council has been looking at ways to secure the future of facilities. The current playground will the borough's parks in the face of significant funding cuts. Our be upgraded with better free-to-use main grant from central Government has been cut by 59% since equipment at the same time. 2010, and the Government's recent funding announcement means A planning application will be submitted in February for the that not only will that grant be removed completely in 2 years, but construction of the Adventure Zone, a large proportion of our business rates will be taken away too. which will be placed near the current This means that to balance our budget, we have had to consider main play area and café. We're keen either cutting support for the services we're not legally obliged to provide (like parks), or raising income where we can to protect them, including through council tax and fees and charges.

We consider Mote Park to be one of the borough's greatest assets, so we made the decision to protect it, rather than risk seeing standards there decline. "A Sustainable Future for Mote Park" is a series of projects, outlined on this page, intended to raise money at the park to make sure that we can not only maintain and protect the park, but improve it too. Café Refurbishment to make sure that it doesn't have a When we surveyed detrimental impact on the landscape, visitors and residents so it will not take up more than about Mote Park in 0.38% of the park. We've also done a 2014, the message was lot of work to make sure that the clear - our café facilities proposed location has the minimum need improving! We impact on the heritage and ecology of have now brought the the park. management of the café in-house, which means we have more control about the introduction of parking to deter commuters from parking there. over it and can use the profits to help charges in Mote Park - and why we've We've previously kept the gates closed look after the park. We've given the café made that difficult decision. These until 9am to stop commuter parking, a complete makeover, extending and charges came into force on Monday 1 but this new charge means we'll now redecorating the interior, improving the February, and we hope that all of our open the gates at 8am. seating, and adding a new kitchen so residents understand why we've done The money raised through parking that we can offer a higher quality, more this. charges will help to maintain the park extensive menu. The charge starts at 10am, allowing and make vital improvements to protect time for people to walk dogs or go for a it for future generations, including Car Parking Charges run in the morning without having to looking after some of the oldest trees. It You will have seen information in pay, and is £1 for up to six hours. Stays will also go toward improvements to the previous editions of Borough Update of more than 6 hours are £12, which is toilets and café. There will be more improvements to come, so watch this space! Maidstone Borough Council 9

The Queen’s 90th Birthday Beacons Sittingbourne Road Park There is a long tradition in the UK of celebrating Royal jubilees, and Ride Closure weddings, coronations and special birthdays with the lighting of Despite recent improvements to the Park and Ride community beacons. Now there will be an opportunity for service, use of the Sittingbourne Road site has communities to organise and take part in their own celebrations continued to fall. The council has been faced with on Thursday 21 April 2016, when beacons will be lit throughout a significant increase in costs and regrettably the the , Channel Islands, Isle of Man and UK Sittingbourne Road Park and Ride site will close Overseas Territories in celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s on Monday 8 February 2016 with the last service 90th Birthday. There are three types of beacons that can be used on Saturday 6 February. We are very sorry for any - the traditional bonfire beacon, a beacon brazier on top of a tall inconvenience caused by the closure, but wooden post that has been previously erected for similar unfortunately the cost to renew the lease was occasions and a gas-fuelled beacon. If you are interested in significantly higher than the council could justify to running a beacon event, you can find information and advice on make the service financially viable. Park and Ride www.brunopeek.co.uk including how to officially register your season tickets are valid at our other Park and Ride event with the Queen’s Pageantmaster. Once you have confirmed sites - Willington Street (M20 Junction 8) or London your event, you can promote it via the Visit Maidstone website at Road (M20 Junction 5) - or you can contact www.visitmaidstone.com/whats-on/add-your-event if it is open to [email protected] or 01622 602377 the public. for a refund on the remaining portion of your ticket.

For more information, visit Explore Maidstone’s Parks www.maidstone.gov.uk/parks Brenchley Gardens (Town Centre) Mote Park St Faith’s Street, Maidstone ME14 1LH Mote Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7SU Brenchley Gardens were opened in 1871 as Maidstone’s first With more than a million visitors a year, Mote Park is one public park. Situated in the town centre, this picturesque of the biggest parks in the South East. Visitors can enjoy green space provides an oasis of calm in contrast to picturesque lake-side views, outstanding access to nature, Maidstone’s bustling shopping streets. Features include a the Mote Park Water Sports Centre, the Mote Park Café, Victorian band stand, the Royal Engineers statue and the walking routes, children’s play areas and special events Cenotaph War Memorial designed by Sir Edward Lutyens, throughout the year. Voted the third best park in the UK in where remembrance services are held. the national Green Flag awards, it offers fantastic days out Clare Park for all the family. Car parking charges apply from 1 Feb. Tonbridge Road, Fant, Maidstone ME16 8SR Penenden Heath Clare Park has been awarded Green Flag status which Penenden Heath Rd, Penenden Heath, recognises the best green spaces in England and Wales. Maidstone ME14 2DQ It boasts numerous facilities including a children’s play Penenden Heath is a large, open space offering football area, a multi-use games court for football, basketball and pitches with changing rooms and tennis courts available netball, tennis courts and a memorial fountain. The park to hire. Other facilities include a children’s play area and is also home to a bowls club, open between May and a large recreation ground. The heath also boasts a rich, September, and a Friends group. colourful history – it acted as an execution site for several hundred years and was a gathering point for Wat Tyler’s Cobtree Park mob during the Peasants’ revolt of 1381. Forstal Road, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7AE Cobtree Manor Park is a landscape of diverse character; South Park part open country park, part woodland and part parkland (North and South Side) Armstrong Road, garden, all set on a gently sloping hillside with wonderful Maidstone ME15 6AZ views of the . The park has undergone South Park is a park of two halves – the north side and extensive improvement works in recent years; highlights the south side - divided in the middle by Armstrong Road. include a new visitor centre and café serving hot and cold The north side is home to the elegant formal gardens, a food, innovative play areas for children, a sculpture trail, pavilion and a lily pond as well as two tennis courts, a skate events and picnic tables. Car parking charges apply. park and all weather floodlit hockey and five-a-side football pitches (leased to Maidstone Hockey Club). On the south Millennium River Park side you’ll find a children’s play area and football pitches. Along the banks of the , The Friends of South Park volunteer group helps maintain between & Allington and improve the park. Maidstone’s Millennium River Park was one of the largest projects in the South East to mark the new Millennium. It Whatman Park transformed pedestrian access to the River Medway with Main entrance: next to the health club at Mill Meadow, a 10-km path running from Teston Country Park, through St Peters Street, Maidstone ME16 0SX Maidstone’s historic town centre and on to Allington Lock – Around half a mile from the town centre, the Green Flag perfect for spotting wildlife in and around the river. Award winning Whatman Park is at the heart of the Millennium River Park which runs along the River Medway. MAKE IT MAIDSTONE MAKE IT PROSPEROUS Everything you need to get your business off the ground Our Economic Development Unit has launched a new Start-Up programme, backed by new online resources and more on-site advisors at its Business Terrace in the town centre. If you’re looking to set up a new business, or are just getting started, visit www.businessinmaidstone.co.uk/starting for all the advice you need. Nearly 50 new businesses have already received advice in the Business Terrace since it opened in September last year. Our onsite advisors also have direct links to the Government's Start Up Loans and other finance. No appointment is needed easy-out’ terms with no long-term contracts. Desks are to talk to any of our advisors - just drop in for a chat between available by the hour to help home-based businesses spend 9am and 4.30pm. We can also arrange appointments outside some time networking and chatting with like-minded people, of those times if that suits you better. Call us on 01622 239300 or if you just need a quiet space to work, while meeting rooms or email [email protected] can be booked for a professional space to meet clients. A The Business Terrace on King Street has been so successful meeting room for up to four people costs £6 per hour, while that four more offices have been opened, taking the total a room for up to eight is £15 per hour. Visit number to ten. These are all available on flexible, ‘easy-in, www.businessinmaidstone.co.uk to find out more or to book. Business Advisors Enterprise Zone Let’s Do Business Group The prospect of 9,900 new jobs in Kent Once complete, the campus will Business advice, training and access to and Medway is now much closer after create more than 2,000 new jobs finance to help businesses start-up and the North Kent Innovation Zone (NKIZ) and provide 98,000m2 of flexible grow - Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday was granted Enterprise Zone status accommodation for medical and life by the Government. This means that science companies, specialist Gullands Solicitors and any business that locates within the residential and rehabilitation care, RIFT Accounting Zone by 31 March 2022 will receive as well as higher education training Legal and Accounting clinics - business rates discounts for five facilities for the medical and Thursday afternoons years, helping to attract inward healthcare professions. The campus investment and create new jobs for has already attracted interest from The Kent Foundation residents. biotech and medtech start-up Specialising in helping people aged up The NKIZ includes the Kent Medical businesses, as well as major to 30 years old - Friday Campus at Junction 7 of the M20. healthcare investors. Maidstone Bridges Gyratory Scheme Site clearance work on the scheme will take place in the summer holidays work for the when there is less traffic, and more daylight hours in which Maidstone to complete the work. Businesses and residents in the town Bridges Gyratory centre will be consulted ahead of the works to minimise Scheme will take disruption. place during the The scheme is expected to deliver a reduction in peak February half-term (13-21 February), when there is a 20% journey times of around 25% by increasing overall junction reduction in traffic volume. We’re sorry for any delays caused by this work, but engineers will be working hard to keep capacity by 15%. There will also be improvements to these to a minimum. pedestrian areas in the Lower High Street, redesigning of surface level crossings and landscaping in the area, including We’re working in partnership with Kent County Council on tree planting. The flood gate to the Medway Street subway the scheme, which will see the construction of two additional will be fixed, and the drainage of the Fairmeadow subway will northbound lanes (from Tovil in the direction of Junction 6 of be improved. Two subways at the bottom of the Lower High the M20) on the eastern (High Street) side of the River Medway, with new junctions controlled by traffic signals. This Street (near Seekers and Drakes pub) will be blocked up, and means that northbound traffic on the A229 will avoid the capacity at the surface level crossings will be improved. This gyratory system, and no longer have to cross the river twice is to help protect businesses in the Lower High Street from to reach their destination. The scheme will be funded by the flooding like that seen in 2013. South East Local Growth Fund, with a £1.14 million If you have any questions about the scheme, please email contribution from Maidstone Borough Council. Most of the [email protected] or call 03000 414141. Maidstone Borough Council 11 MaidSafe Our Community Safety Unit has been working closely with the MaidSafe Business Crime Partnership, a not for profit organisation that also works in partnership with Kent Police, Town Centre Management, traders and the CCTV centre to help protect our residents, visitors and businesses. Over the festive period, the Town Centre Management team coordinated a new initiative designed to highlight how easy it is for people to fall victim to pickpockets – all with the help of a little magic! Magician Paul Fowler was hired to raise awareness of how easy it is to get close to people and potentially pick their pockets. He slipped card templates of everyday items such as An easy way to prevent purse theft is to helping to deter crime and prevent anti smartphones, wallets and tablets into use a purse chain that connects to your social behaviour in the town. Other people’s pockets each bearing bag, and to ensure that your bag is projects that MaidSafe is involved with messages warning people ‘If securely done up. You can also record contribute to a presence in the town someone can get this into your your mobile IMEI number by keying centre on Saturday nights, including pocket, they can also get it out’. *#06# to get your 15 digit number, and the Urban Blue Bus on Jubilee Square keeping the number safe. More helpful Being pick pocketted is something which provides medical help, dedicated tips on keeping your belongings safe that can happen to anybody. Taxi Marshals at the Hackney Taxi are available on MaidSafe’s Peter Cackett said: “At Rank at the top of Gabriels Hill from 2- www.kent.police.uk/advice/home/detb this time of year, people are 4am and the Street Pastors who are preoccupied and don’t pay attention to ur.html. available to provide emotional support their belongings as they should. MaidSafe provides support to throughout the town. For more Hopefully this will make them aware businesses via a radio scheme that is information, visit of how vulnerable they are.” linked to CCTV cameras and the police, www.maidsafe.org.uk.

Government finance settlement Maidstone council always predicted, and will be plans extremely carefully eliminated the following for its financial future and year – two years earlier manages its resources well than expected. The so that we can continue to Government will also take provide the services and away a huge proportion of deliver projects that matter the business rate that is most to our communities. currently retained locally. In response to Government £7.4 million of savings will cuts – our main grant has need to be found by 2021. reduced by 59% since 2010 Councillors and officers are Register to vote – we have saved millions of doing everything they can to pounds by being innovative generate income and make There are two elections this May – one for a third of the and working with our further savings while seats on Maidstone Borough Council, and another for the partners and the protecting not only those Kent Police and Crime Commissioner. The EU Referendum community. services that we have to is also expected later in 2016. Make sure you can vote by However, the most recent provide, but also those that registering at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. You’ll need your Government funding make the borough such an National Insurance number (if you have one) and about 5 announcement is set to put attractive place to live and minutes. even more pressure on our where businesses can It’s especially important to do this if you’ve moved house budget, with Maidstone thrive and grow. Maidstone since the last election, as you’ll still be registered at your council receiving one of the council has a strong record last address! worst settlements in the of innovation and will work country. Our main grant for hard to minimise the The deadline for registering to vote for the elections in May 2016/17 has been impact of the budget cuts is Monday 18 April, while the deadline to request a postal substantially cut from that on its residents. vote is Tuesday 19 April. 12 Maidstone Borough Council Working

Will Myers for you Since December 2013, Will has been on secondment to Maidstone Borough Council from the homelessness charity Porchlight (www.porchlight.org.uk). His role at the council involves helping to reduce homelessness amongst rough sleepers, offering support to help people into accommodation and leading on the Maidstone Assertive Outreach project.

What attracted you to the job? agencies, spotting the gaps in support and filling them My experience is in teaching, working with clients and as best we can. A little creative thinking can make all carrying out support work in hostels but my own the difference to just a single individual or a whole background and vast amount of ‘Life Experience’ has group. allowed me to not only sympathise but empathise with What does good customer service mean to you? the people that I work with. This job allows me to work Keeping my promises, no matter how long it takes, with a client base that I already knew but from a and being honest with the people I support. I don’t different approach. The work I do now supports those have a magic wand to make the things happen that who, without help, would never even get as far as a people want but I will support and empower them to hostel on their own. move forward under their own steam. What do you like most about your job? I get a real buzz when I work with someone who is Singing Stars from the street or living in a tent and who might be You may have seen (and heard!) the council’s staff choir giving up on life, then helping them get into their own singing carols in the Mall Chequers shopping centre home. Sometimes it’s a quick fix but on numerous just before Christmas to raise money for charity. A huge occasions it’s a long, hard, drawn-out process. thank you to all the residents and shoppers who made Everyone is an individual with their own unique set of donations in aid of Maidstone Day Centre Homeless circumstances and issues to solve. I love thinking Care (www.homelessinmaidstone.org.uk) — we raised outside the box and trying new things with partner over £180 for this very worthwhile cause.

Borough Update Follow us on Twitter This is your council newsletter, suggestions are always @maidstonebc produced up to four times a welcome. It is typeset by AW year in the Downs Mail design and printed by Newbury Like us on Facebook – newspaper. It is written, edited News. www.facebook.com/ and designed by the council's If you are visually impaired and maidstoneboroughcouncil communications team, Maidstone House, King Street, would like the newsletter text Watch us on YouTube – Maidstone, Kent ME15 6JQ. in large print, please call us on 01622 602176, and we will be www.youtube.com/ Email: [email protected]. user/maidstonecouncil Your comments and happy to send you a copy.

What’s On! To find out what’s on in Maidstone Borough visit www.visitmaidstone.com News downsmail.co.uk Royal honours announced LOCAL people have been celebrating being named in the Queen’s New Year’s honours list.

Of this year’s 1,196 recipients, 76% have undertaken “outstanding work in their communities”. In the Maidstone area they are: Vanessa Jones, chairman of Bred- hurst Parish Council and co-founder of the Bredhurst Woodland Action Group, receives a British Empire Medal for service to woodland man- agement and her community. Vanessa (53), who lives with her husband Martin in the house in which she grew up in Bredhurst, thanked villagers for throwing her a surprise party and for the many Vanessa Jones, Craig Vidler, George Batts and Venessa Willms have all been honoured messages and cards of congratula- tions she has received. veteran of the Normandy Landings, said: “Over the past nine years at schoolboy, who built a hugely suc- She will become the second in her George became the national secre- Ark, including seven as the found- cessful career in retailing and re- household to hold a BEM when she tary and treasurer of the now-dis- ing principal at King Solomon cruitment, said: “I’m delighted to receives it from The Viscount De banded Normandy Veterans’ Academy, I have worked with tal- have been able to give something L’Isle – Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieu- Association and spent many years ented teachers and senior leaders to back and help some of its people tenant of Kent – at Penshurst Place organising pilgrimages to France to provide every child with the tools who have fallen on hard times.” in the summer, ahead of her audi- remember The Fallen in the D-Day they need to go to university or pur- Craig, who met and married his ence with the Queen. conflict. His voluntary work has sue a career of their choice.” wife of 46 years while working in She said: “I only learned last week also included compiling an archive Craig Vidler receives a BEM for South Africa, returned with Mar- that my husband’s grandfather of eye-witness accounts from the services to charity. The 69-year-old, jorie and their daughter Claire to Morgan Thomas received a BEM for battlefields and assisting with civic who lived near Mote Park in Maid- Maidstone in 1971 and lived in driving ambulances through the visits, for which he received an stone throughout his early years, Loose and for a short time in Leeds Blitz in London during World War award from Prime Minister David has raised money for charities such village. II. So, I’ll be keeping up a family tra- Cameron in 2014. as the Royal Marsden and more The couple now live near Ashford dition.” Venessa Willms, from Maidstone, than £500,000 for the Retail Trust but are regular visitors to the area, George Batts (90), from Barming, will be awarded an OBE for services with an annual fly-fishing event particularly Bearsted. Craig remains who will be made an MBE for his to education. The director of pri- over the last 28 years. a founding partner of a mentoring voluntary service to war veterans. A mary education for Ark Schools The former Maidstone Grammar service for the over-55s. Sporting fees Village shop hopes boosted SPORTS clubs face higher Maid- stone Council charges in 2016-17 VILLAGERS in Detling look set to apply to convert the garage. from the village. with football, rugby, tennis and get their much-hoped-for “commu- The Community Shop Steering Steve Thomas, who was also on bowls clubs needing to pay about nity hub” in the coming months. Committee, which has carried out the steering committee but left the 5% more. A steering committee formed by a huge amount of work to get a pub on January 18 after three years A single let for a football pitch will villagers keen to set up a shop and shop back in the village following as licensee, said he was disap- increase from £57.60 to £60.50, dis- post office have had their idea the closure of the last retail outlet in pointed not to have been offered an counted to £50.50 for 10 or more lets taken up by the new tenants at their 2011, has recommended the parish extension to his tenancy, which (£20 for juniors). local, The Cock Inn. council allow the four to take up would have allowed him to take Rugby increases £5 to £65.50 for Tony and Kim Donohue have de- the initiative. forward the idea of developing a single lets and £53 for 10 or more cided not only to run the pub, but Resident Richard Finn, who has not-for-profit store run by volun- lets. Adult single tennis court hire to turn the nearby garage into a been active in getting the idea off teers, which the group had wanted. goes up 40p to £8.40 an hour. Bowls shop and post office. They also the ground, will be sharing the Mr Finn said: “If Mr and Mrs costs increase by about 5% and use hope to run a cafe in the pub dur- steering group’s research with the Donohue can make it a success as a of changing rooms/showers will in- ing the winter and outside the shop publicans and has urged Mr and commercial enterprise then vil- crease by almost 12% to £20 a time. in the warmer weather. Mrs Donohue to source as much lagers will have got what they Charges also increase for bookings Greene King, which owns the produce as they can locally and en- wanted and we hope that they in council parks and Jubilee Square pub, has agreed the tenants may deavour to hire staff, if needed, can.” and for cemetery costs. Heating fire Borough facing cuts as grant is slashed A FIRE at a house in Grove Green SWINGEING Government cuts Cllr Richard Ash said: “We were precedented pressure on our budget Road, Grove Green, is thought to have left Maidstone Council facing a told the grant would be phased out. for at least four years.” have been caused by under-floor financial dilemma. My understanding of ‘phased’ is The council is challenging the gov- heating. The fire caused smoke-log- Chancellor George Osborne an- gradual – not a reduction this year, ernment ruling but in the meantime ging throughout the house. There nounced in his Autumn Statement then nothing at all the next. it is looking at other ways of making were no reported casualties. that he would be phasing out the “We were left with just three savings and increasing income. revenue support grant (RSG). The months to make another £628,000 of It has already introduced parking aim is for local authorities to be self- savings. By 20/21, we will need to be charges at Mote Park. The creation Chimney blaze financing by the end of the decade saving £1,319,000.” and leasing of its business terrace at FIREFIGHTERS were called to a rather than relying on central gov- Cllr Ash said the council would, the Maidstone Gateway is another fire in Hill Crescent, Lenham in- ernment grants. for the first time in many years, have new way of raising revenue. volving a chimney flue connected to However, it was recently an- to consider borrowing. The policy and resources commit- a wood-burning stove. Crews re- nounced that the grant was to be cut Council leader Fran Wilson said: tee will look more closely at where moved the stove and put out the fire. this year and axed in 2016/17. “This announcement has put un- savings can be made.

Maidstone East February 2016 23 News | Sponsored parish council downsmail.co.uk Precept up to improve the village environment RESIDENTS in Bearsted are being asked to pay an extra 10p a week to help keep their village among the best in the borough.

After two months of discussions, aiming to make contract savings. come due we can spend from sav- the parish council voted unani- Chairman Cllr Fiona Redman ings.” mously to set its 2016-17 budget. said: “We will make sure we get the As a percentage, the increase Dogs’ day out Councillors reluctantly decided best value for our money. We must looks quite large at more than 20%, THE council is to consider hosting a to raise the precept (the money learn to work smarter and look at but works out at 10p per week for a “doggy day out” from residents used to fund the ways of generating income, while Band D property, about £5 a year A fun dog show was held on land parish council), which is among the making savings.” on the council tax bill for house- at Bearsted Woodland Trust three lowest in the borough, to help fi- The council is to look at what it holders in Bearsted but putting an years ago, organised by the former nance projects to improve the envi- wants to achieve in the coming fi- extra £20,000 in the council’s cof- community warden. Maidstone ronment in the village. nancial year when it meets in fers. Council’s environmental enforce- ment team organised a similar event Despite the increase, the parish March. Bearsted, which has about 4,000 last year in Marden, which was a council still has the third lowest Finance committee chairman Cllr houses, is a large village to main- huge success and raised £345 for precept in Maidstone, behind Richard Camp said: “We need to tain. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. neighbouring Boxley and the tiny invest in the future of the parish. Cllr Helena Goodwin said: “We The parish council has been ap- parish of . There are a number of upcoming need to do more projects and not proached by borough council offi- Alongside the precept increase is projects which will require signifi- let things slip so that we keep cers who would organise and fund a renewed focus on value for cant amounts. Bearsted the sought-after area that the event, and is looking at sites in- money. “Rather than try to budget for makes villagers proud to live here.” cluding the Elizabeth Harvie field The parish council, in line with them in a single year we need to It is possible the council will be and Bearsted Woodland Trust, as other local authorities including build up a small surplus each year able to get grants towards some of well as summer dates which do not Maidstone Council and KCC, is so that when the large projects its expenditure. clash with other events. The event would also promote re- sponsible dog ownership and stress Garage rubbish to be cleared Council says the importance of cleaning up after your dogs. THE parish council has had a meeting with Golding Homes about the state of the garages in Cross Keys. no to homes Fly-tippers have created an unsightly and potentially hazardous mess BEARSTED Council’s planning Event help behind the garages, pic- committee has voted to oppose THE parish council has agreed to tured inset. an application for outline plan- make a donation towards the cost of It was suggested that ning permission to build three toilets for Music on the Green. the parish council might new three-storey houses in St The council is not allowed to give clear the area as part of Faith’s Lane, Bearsted. money to private events so has of- the Clean for the Queen Several members of the public fered £400 towards the facilities and weekend on March 4-6, expressed their concerns about free use of The Green. but Cllr Richard Ash be- the over-development of the Tickets are selling well for the lieves the job should be site, which would see the demo- event on Sunday, August 28 – the left to the professionals. lition of St Faith’s bungalow bank holiday weekend. A mattress had been and the building of three three- Bearsted Events chairman Jo Con- dumped, along with a fridge, desk and children’s toys. Cllr Fabienne bedroom town houses on the ner said: “We are very grateful to the Hughes said: “It makes Tovil tip look quite tidy.” site. parish council for their support. The Councillors met Golding Homes’ Mark Emerson who has arranged for St Faith’s Lane is a single track more we receive in donations, the the items on the company’s land to be removed. road without a pavement and more the charities will benefit.” In the meantime, the parish council has agreed to support the Clean for there is no room for parking or a Profits will be divided between the Queen weekend and is drawing up suggestions, contacting local hammerhead for vehicles to Maidstone Age UK, which runs the groups such as the football club, Scouts, Guides, bowls and tennis clubs. turn. Other properties in the Goodman Centre in Bearsted, the The council may focus its efforts on tidying The Green, Church Landway road are detached and no more NSPCC and Rainbows, the group and car park but is also looking at other parts of the village. than two storeys high, members which introduces girls aged five to heard. seven to Girl Guiding. The committee has passed its Objection to balcony proposal objections to Maidstone Coun- CCTV plan A PROPOSAL that includes a cin- – a four-bedroom detached house cil, based on the grounds of THE council is to look at installing a ema and family room in the roof of with a double garage and office. A over-development and loss of CCTV camera at the Church Land- a house in St Faith’s Lane has been resident in Downsview was con- privacy for residents nearby. way car park. opposed by Bearsted Parish Coun- cerned about the proposed bal- Following repeated vandalism cil’s planning committee. cony on the rear of the house RESIDENTS can opt out of Royal and complaints about assaults and Resident Paul Rudd did not ob- which would overlook his house Mail’s door-to-door service by other unwanted activity in the area, ject to replacing Yonder Cottage, and garden and invade his privacy. emailing [email protected] or the council would like to see a police but had concerns about the build- Bearsted and Thurnham Society calling 0345 266 0858. mobile camera put in place. ing line of the proposed property also opposed to the development.

This page is sponsored and edited by: Council Office: Madginford Hall, Bearsted Telephone: 01622 630165 E-Mail: [email protected] Bearsted Parish Council Chairman: Fiona Redman MEETINGS HELD SECOND TUESDAY OF MONTH (7.30PM) www.bearstedparishcouncil.gov.uk AND THE PUBLIC IS VERY WELCOME

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Maidstone East February 2016 25 downsmail.co.uk David Bowie made her homes in Buon Lane, Bearsted previously aended the Kent Farm Institute Obituaries where she lived for 12 years, and at Grove in Siingbourne in 1946. AMONG the flood of tributes, stories and Green. With wife Patricia “Pat”, Don raised lile known facts which have emerged Born Carole Puxty in Siingbourne, she children Nigel and Jane. since David Bowie’s death is his Maidstone grew up and was educated in that town His working life connection. where she met and married husband of 46 included years of From 1964 to 1965 years, Adrian. fruit farming and he the then unknown Adrian and Carole moved locally and was closely involved David Jones was a Carole combined raising children Tracey, in its organisation member of the Anne-Marie and Mahew with work in and management Manish Boys, a group two local nursery schools – Lile Acorns in across the county. who lived and Downswood and Tiny Tots in Bearsted. She Don was chairman of rehearsed locally in finished her working life as a cashier at Kentish Garden from cramped conditions. Tesco in Grove Green. 1972 and also worked Its main rehearsal Son Mahew said: “My mother got on with the National space was a living with everybody; she was a loving and very Farmers Union room in Coxheath. giving person who would do anything for (NFU). The band played locally, including her children and grandchildren. He served on the NFU’s soft fruit performances at the Royal Star Hotel in “She loved a glass of red wine and commiee and was involved in dealings Maidstone. enjoyed travelling with my father; they had between the local industry and national Bowie’s memories of the county town visited many places including the USA, government. He was awarded an MBE for were coloured by an incident in which a New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. his services to horticulture and the soft fruit local man aacked him after seeing him on They also enjoyed geing out for the day industry in 1983. the street, knocking him down and kicking anywhere locally and had travelled all over Son Nigel said: “My father’s involvement him. Long hair on young men was still a the UK.” in farming started with a smallholding. But controversial subject at the time and Bowie Carole leaves her husband, children and he was enthusiastic about a number of and his band mates suffered some grandchildren Jessica, Emily, Isabel, Zak, things: he loved motorcycling and football; prejudice. Ryan and Ella. he watched Charlton as a boy and went Bowie would later talk about his dreams with me to Chelsea games and saw many to become “their Mick Jagger” with regard of their celebrated players. to his time in The Manish Boys. He left to Bryan Baughan “He loved classical music and learned to join another band, The Lower Third, before BRYAN Baughan (74) was a popular, play the organ, playing occasionally in finding stardom as a solo artist. successful and generous chairman of church.” governors of Suon Valence School for the Don – who was widowed – leaves a son; last 13 years. daughter Jane pre-deceased him. He also Anne Stout Headmaster Bruce Grindlay said: “ Over leaves grandchildren Amy, Laura, Alan, HOLLINGBOURNE’S Anne Stout (82) his years much was Katie, Sophie and Oliver. lived locally for twenty years at the end of achieved with facilities an eventful life that took her all over the and educational world. provision. Ian Dalziel Born Anne Carr in the Oxford area she “During Bryan’s BEARSTED’S Ian Dalziel (86) lived in was the youngest of tenure major building Church Lane from 1986 until he moved into three sisters and had work took place a care home in 2013. worked as a PA at including a new He was born in London into an Army Harwell atomic theatre, swimming family and joined research pool, athletics track, two Highland establishment and in maths and ICT regiments as a young Iran and Iraq before classrooms, new man and saw action moving to Jamaica. dining hall and pre-prep buildings. The in the Korean War She moved to Kent school roll has increased and the academic after volunteering for from Jamaica with her achievement of both schools has improved the Argyll and husband Robert, an beyond recognition.” Sutherland anaesthetist, and the couple lived in Bryan was a past president of the Rotary Highlanders. Ian Rainham and Newnham. They adopted Club of Maidstone Riverside and for many suffered combat daughter Hilary “Jo” and established a club years helped raise substantial sums for injuries and for families with one child and also a charity by staging annual summer pop eventually returned to Britain to follow a country dancing club. concerts in the riverside field of his home in career in travel agency. Anne moved to Hollinbourne and lived . He also ran dragon races from He married Mary in 1954, becoming with her older sister Pat in Tilefields. She his pontoon for the Rotary charity. father to Andrew and Philip. He continued remained active, learning Karate in her 70s For many years he served as treasurer of working as a travel agent after moving to and regularly aending dancing classes. St William’s Church, and was Bearsted, commuting to London for his last Her involvement in causes and local life instrumental in joining it with the local years in the job. included fundraising and active Methodist church. He helped raise funds to Andrew said: “My father saw himself as involvement with the Kent Air Ambulance, build a new church for the area. He also a Bearsted person and was very active in a Kent Association for the Blind and a range served on the deanery, diocesan and general number of campaigns to protect the village of appeals linked to major disasters. synods. from development. He loved reading, She was an active member of the He was a successful London stockbroker especially history, took a pride in his Hollingbourne Meadows Trust and had and was proud of 50 years in the City. He is garden and enjoyed travel. He travelled to been involved in raising funds for a bench survived by his wife Jo, children Kathryn she regularly used while walking her dogs. Anne was also a regular fund raising for and Michael and five grandchildren. The Stone Shop the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Pat died in November. Anne leaves her Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, daughter and grandchildren Vicki and Don Goodwin lettered and installed anywhere. Gemma DONALD “Don” Goodwin MBE (87) was Inscriptions added to existing memorials well known in the farming community as Renovations and memorial well as being chairman of cleaning Carole Lang Parish Council. He lived locally from 1953, moving from The Stone Shop CAROLE Lang (65) lived locally for 28 Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. years, moving to Weavering Street from her Welling. His homes included Luckhurst native Siingbourne and subsequently Farm from 1963 and Court Lodge Farm, 01622 726633 West Farleigh from 1967. Don had

26 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk Tenants facing ‘hidden’ fees A DAMNING report has found a agents were not willing or able to plethora of problems for residen- give information on their fees and tial renters in Maidstone. charges over the telephone. What the agents charge Citizens Advice Maidstone (Cam) Cam’s report, Letting in the Light, A STRAW poll of Maidstone’s letting Seventy per cent of Century 21’s found bewildering fees and charges found that information on fees and agents revealed most charged a set- business in Maidstone is residential were passed on to prospective ten- charges was often hard to find on up fee of about £300 – in one case as lettings. Mr Wiek said: “Our fee of ants, with a lack of basic informa- websites and, in some cases, was much as £425 – for referencing a ten- £150 includes referencing, checks, the tion, when it carried out a mystery non-existent – contrary to the Ad- ant (which includes running a credit contracts, inventory and the tenancy shop of some of the town’s top let- vertising Standards Authority re- check), with additional fees of £60 to agreement and is one of the cheapest ting agents. quirements. £150 for each additional tenant. in Maidstone.” The research, which followed a Bonny Malhotra, chief executive “Hidden” fees included renewal Stewart Carroll, senior branch man- web survey, revealed not only big of Citizens Advice Maidstone, said: charges, early release charges, pet de- ager for Simon Miller and Company in differences between agents’ fees “The market in letting fees and posits, express move-in and tenancy Maidstone, said: “We are not the and charges, but high bills for credit charges is not working.” amendments. cheapest – nor are we the most ex- checks and registration fees. Upfront fees and charges to Some were as low as £125 per ap- pensive. We have had no complaints Some customers had to pay be- prospective tenants, other than rent plicant for referencing and a £55 from tenants with regard to our fees, tween £150 and £360 for a credit and a refundable deposit, are check-in fee – with no renewal fees which I think is a compliment to the check (although an extensive credit banned in Scotland and Mr Malho- after completion of the initial fixed fact we have done our research. We check can be obtained for £49.99). tra would like to see the same sys- term tenancy. ensure tenants pre-qualify before ar- Other fees included were for ap- tem in England. plication, registration, documenta- He added: “If there are going to One major chain explained the fees ranging a viewing. tion, inventory, set-up, check-in, be upfront fees and charges, many and charges but failed to give any “All our fees are on display in the of- check-out, admin and tenancy de- residential letting agents are going prices, arguing they varied from prop- fice and contained in the tenants’ posit fee insurance. Some agencies to have to be more open and trans- erty to property and branch to branch property list, which is given to every- offered “all-in-one” fees, which parent about them.” – yet the total would easily add £750 one who registers with us.” could not be broken down further. Mr Malhotra said he had referred to the fees of renting a family home. The company does not charge a There was also a lack of upfront the Maidstone report to the national Another town centre agency dis- check-in fee but the check-out fee of information on refunds, such as body of Citizens Advice. played no details about charges on its £100 plus Vat is payable at the start which fees and charges could be re- In the meantime, Cam is working website apart from the monthly of a tenancy to encourage the tenant funded should the tenancy not go with Trading Standards on a fol- rental, although it did compare the to attend the inventory check-out ap- ahead, and under which circum- low-up. Mr Malhotra said: “We amount of rent to other properties in pointment. stances any refund would be given. hope to carry out another exercise the area. He said: “That way, there is an in- There was a shortage of upfront in- later in the year in the hope the Louis Wiek, director of Century 21 in centive for them to be present for the formation regarding deposit pro- agents will have taken on board our Maidstone, said: “We try to make appointment – and it also means we tection and redress schemes. findings and made the necessary things as straightforward as possible can ensure they get any deposit back Cam also found some letting improvements to their services.” and keep costs to the minimum.” quickly.”

Africa and the Far East. He was sociable as president, treasurer, chairman and Colin was father to Debbie and Penny and and respected locally. secretary. stepfather to Jonathan and Vanessa. Jo said: Obituaries Widowed in 1999, Ian leaves his sons. The parish magazine praised Jack’s “Colin was outgoing and sociable. He had “technical skills and immense common many friends and was very well known in sense” which made him a valuable presence and around Bearsted. Sheila Gunter at community events. Jack was also involved “Many of the tributes we have received HOLLINGBOURNE’S Shelia Gunter (92) with St Nicholas’s Church, Leeds, where his have spoken of how popular he was with was a former air hostess who had met film funeral service took place. everyone. He loved vegetable gardening stars including Audrey Hepburn and The parish magazine summed up: “Our and made his own pickled onions, which worked at the codebreaking centre Bletchley community has so much to remain thankful were given to a lot of people. Park during the war. for and Jack was one of the people for whom “He also loved following sport and the Born in Rhyl, Wales and raised in the most thanks are due.” family once travelled to the West Indies to Black Country Sheila joined BOAC (the Jack’s autobiography, An Ordinary Man, see England play a test match. British state-owned airline) after the death of remains on sale locally. Jack – who was “Colin adored his grandchildren and her first husband. She worked as an air widowed – leaves daughter Patricia and taught them to fish – the song Gone Fishin’ hostess before joining the company’s grandchildren Geoff and Caroline. was played at his funeral.” Colin leaves his protocol department, where her duties wife, children, stepchildren and included meeting and greeting VIPs. grandchildren Catherine and James. Sheila’s second husband was a solicitor Colin Tuck and the couple lived in Eyhorne Street. She COLIN Tuck (83) lived locally for many moved to Hollingbourne 30 years ago after years, most recently in St Faith’s Lane, Phil Edbrooke-Childs being widowed for a second time. She Bearsted. PHIL Edbrooke-Childs (36) died in a road worked as a guide at Leeds Castle. He previously lived at 1 Spot Lane from accident in Hermitage Lane, Maidstone. Friends in her local area have paid tribute the mid 1970s with wife Jo. Phil, who lived in Dover, was managing to Sheila’s “pleasant” and “charming” Born in director of Kent and Medway Health nature. Sheila leaves her daughter Sally. Cambridgeshire, Infomatics, which Colin trained for a provided information medical career in the and technology Jack White Navy and served nine services for the health THE death of Jack White, from Leeds, has years, rising to the industry. He had been reported widely. rank of pey officer. previously worked Jack and his wife Audrey arrived in the He followed this with for various NHS village in 1983, when Jack retired from a career in sales, trusts and the BBC. working in Portugal. He became known for including working for Phil’s family said his community involvement, which Marley Foam of he was “a devoted included work with the local branch of Lenham and Cleanaway, selling waste husband, son, the Royal British Legion, where he served management systems. brother, uncle and friend.”

There is no charge for our obituary service. Call Neil Nixon on 01622 630422 or email [email protected]

Maidstone East February 2016 27 downsmail.co.uk Sponsored parish council | News Boxley Parish Mail CHAIRMAN: Ivor Davies CLERK: Pauline Bowdery ASST CLERK: Melanie Fooks Parish Office, Beechen Hall, Wildfell Close, Walderslade, ME5 9RU Tel: 01634 861237 email: [email protected] Website: www.boxleyparishcouncil.org.uk Contact details for parish councillors can be obtained from the parish office, the Useful Contact Details leaflet or the website Meeting on Waitrose traffic fears Kims idea A PLAN to build a Waitrose su- which the retailer will retain, existing concentration of vehicles AT the parish council environ- permarket on part of the park and would have a simple and contem- accessing and leaving the park and ment committee on Monday, ride site at Eclipse Park was un- porary design featuring locally ride at peak traffic times would dis- February 8 there will be a pres- veiled in a pre-planning applica- sourced Kentish ragstone, in keep- appear. A transport assessment entation and discussion regard- tion briefing given to the parish ing with the surrounding retail and scope had been agreed with KCC ing a proposal for a new unit at council’s environment committee. commercial units. Construction and Highways England. Other the Kims Campus in Newnham Representatives of the Gallagher traffic would use the M20 and no matters raised were possible light Court, off M20 Junction 7. Group and DHA planning consul- new highways work would be pollution and impact on the land- Due to local interest the meet- tancy outlined the proposed needed. scape. ing has now been scheduled for £14million scheme that would see Mr Yandle went on to say that the The chairman of the environment St John’s School, Provender a 29,000sqft store developed on car park would have 300 spaces committee, Wendy Hinder, Way, Grove Green at 7pm. land to the north of the new Next with free parking for two hours thanked Mr Yandle for his detailed shop close to junction 7 of the M20. and with access from either the presentation and reminded mem- The meeting provided an opportu- Chiltern Hundreds roundabout or bers of the public that no decision nity for councillors and members of the new junction between the will be made by the parish council Path blocked the public to ask questions and Hilton and Next. Although it is ex- until it receives the formal planning RESIDENTS have raised concerns make comments on the proposals. pected that most customers will application and plans from the bor- about the blocked path leading from Nick Yandle, Gallagher’s chief ex- travel by car, a bus service will be ough council and is asked for its Wingrove Drive to Tesco. ecutive, said that Maidstone had provided by Arriva Maidstone-Sit- views. It will then be discussed in The path has been blocked off by long been a key target for Waitrose. tingbourne routes 333 and 334 call- open meeting. The scheme is likely Tesco while it is arranging repairs “The investment in a new Waitrose ing at new stops on Bearsted Road. to be formally submitted to Maid- after recent accidents. KCC, the is a sign of confidence in the bor- It is hoped that buses may run right stone Council in late parish council and borough Cllr ough. It will reinforce junction 7’s up to the store at a later date but February/early March. If approved, Wendy Hinder were in contact with importance as a gateway to the Arriva were not prepared to pro- building could start in late 2016 Tesco. It was hoped that the issue Maidstone economy and will at- vide such a service at present. with the store opening early in will be resolved fairly soon. tract further investment and em- Most of the concerns expressed at 2018. ployment at Eclipse Park.” He the meeting by councillors and Further information and the op- Trust wood envisaged 200 new full and part- members of the public related to portunity for residents to express KENT Wildlife Trust has started time positions being created. additional traffic. Mr Yandle said their views can be found at producing local, ecologically The new single-storey building, that no serious problem was ex- www.waitrosemaidstone.co.uk friendly wood products including more than twice the size of the ex- pected. Any extra traffic would be and/or comments may be sent to firewood, available to buy at Tyland isting Waitrose at Allington Park spread throughout the day and the the parish council. Barn, Tyland Lane, Sandling. Grants to community groups Council freezes precept THE parish council agreed its as it concluded that the parish budget and set its 2016/2017 pre- charge could be maintained at the cept at £98,481, which is identical same level by meeting the shortfall to that for 2015/16, despite a re- from reserves, boosted by a fore- duction in the local council tax cast underspend in the 2015/16 support the parish council receives budget mainly because of project from the Government. deferment. The finance and general pur- Details of the agreed budget will poses committee had recom- be posted on the parish council’s mended no increase to the precept website in February/March. Queen clean Lynn joins THE parish council has again supported local organisations, with a grant MANY residents will be aware of of up to £2,000 towards the legal costs for Vinters Valley Trust to convert LYNN Clarke, a resident of Box- this national project to clear up lit- to a Community Incorporated Organisation; Sandling Village Hall (en- ley village, has been co-opted on ter in time for the Queen’s 90th trance, pictured) has been awarded up to £3,000 to replace its floor and to the parish council to fill the va- birthday on April 20. The Keep £160 for a Samsung tablet to be used by the Beechen Hall Age Concern cancy left by the late Alan Britain Tidy group has more de- Group. Springate. The appointment will The parish council has a grants budget for village halls and other bodies. tails on its website. last only until May when elec- Details of who is eligible to apply and the relevant form to do so are on the The parish council would be in- tions will be held for the whole parish website. The parish office also helps such organisations locate and terested to hear from any residents parish council. apply for external funding. who are thinking of becoming in- Anyone contemplating stand- Parish council chairman Cllr Ivor Davies said: “Because of the financial volved by adopting or helping ing for election but unsure of cuts, local organisations are finding grants harder to obtain. The parish clear a road or local area that has what being a councillor entails council’s continuing support in this way is therefore vital.” rubbish that isn’t collected or should contact the Boxley Parish reached by a normal litter pick. Council office or visit the website.

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Maidstone East February 2016 29 downsmail.co.uk Comment Mote Park – best in Britain? WE should be very proud Mote Park is in levelling and well-planned layout would be now regularly voted among the best three very welcome by our sporting community. parks in the country – and it could rise to the MailMarks There is a strong demand from various sports top. – and the council knows it under-provides for Improvements to pathways, parking and DENNIS FOWLE President sport in the borough. views over the last two years have seen visi- [email protected] It should be protected for quality sport use tors numbers swell. Now Maidstone Council – but routes left for walkers and dogs to ac- has announced plans for the next big steps – a to the cricket club. cess other more popular areas of the park. major, larger re-built restaurant with magnif- With the park attracting a million visitors a Those I questioned have little appetite for icent vistas down to the scenic lake, upgraded year – and this will grow – car parking prob- walking over the current sports pitches. toilets, and a charged adventure/activity fea- lems will increase, despite the new £1-a-day ture next to the free children’s play area to- charge. I believe one of the next areas for Changing and showers are available in the wards the leisure centre. council consideration should be the large leisure centre – but sports clubs would like to We often take grandchildren for an hour or grassed area lined with lovely trees between see these upgraded. I know some will see my so. These new attractions will make most the entrance and exit roads. In winter it is thoughts as harmful to their image of parts of stays a lot longer – perhaps for three hours if often a quagmire. the park. But no one should now doubt the the restaurant and eating experiences hit the I think its main value will be as a surfaced popularity of recent changes – it has become a right buttons. I would like to see the magnifi- car park – but recommend greater ambition. I park of even greater beauty and fun. Let’s cent scenery and fascinating history of the think the end closest to the park entrance keep that ball rolling. park imaginatively displayed around the would be a very popular location for two or What do you think? The Downs Mail wel- restaurant to excite visitors and encourage three quality restaurants. I think dining in the comes reader letters on Mote Park. wider exploration of the 440-acre park. park would be a very exciting addition. This How many know the enthralling story of area could be a good earner, too, for our cash- Fax frustrations former park owner Lord Bearsted, founder of strapped council. Some 20 years ago a business abused my Shell oil company? He named it after his fam- I would also like the council to upgrade the ily business which traded worldwide in orna- sports take in the park. There is a little-used fax machine by sending unsolicited adverts. mental sea shells. He was an amazing man area close to the leisure centre and bowls club Ten years ago I removed the machine – but who died in 1927. His heirs sold Mote Park to large enough for high-quality football, rugby still these unwanted nuisance phone calls ar- Maidstone Corporation for £50,000 in 1929 etc pitches. At the moment, much of this land rive almost daily, causing great inconven- and The Mote Cricket Ground was left in trust undulates all over the place but an investment ience. Any advice please?

Traffic choking town been badly affected and is to get worse. infrastructure constraints can be removed Nick Kelly, Loose from the list, therefore reducing the Dear Sir – Maidstone was at one time a housing target. relatively easy place to access, park, shop It is no good Mr Carter assuring the and travel through. You could virtually Highways before homes parish councils that KCC will in future guarantee to reach a destination on the Dear Sir – Here is a quote from a KCC object to planning applications on other side of town from the south with internal report to Mathew highways grounds – that will be too late. reasonable accuracy at most times of day. Balfour, cabinet member. If Maidstone grinds to a halt in the future People could commute into and out of the “The housing target can because of serious traffic problems, it will town without the fear of being late for work, only be reached once proper be due to KCC not standing up and doing and kids could get to school on time in a safe, planning policy constraints their duty as infrastructure providers – clean environment. are applied to the need they hold the power to reduce numbers, Now as I write this from my home in Loose figure, i.e. environmental, not Maidstone Borough Council! I can only say I have watched this town infrastructure etc.” Cllr John A Wilson, Maidstone Council, slowly diminish in terms of quality of life. It is Coxheath and Hunton Ward As can be seen, the “need”Cllr John Wilson a town that is fast becoming a jungle of new figure, which is 18,560 housing estates, without any real thinking houses, is accepted as it has been by most about the effect on the quality of life. partners, but that it can be reduced if the Wrong on park and ride The list of decisions which affect quality of necessary infrastructure cannot be Dear Sir – The Mail Mark on the very life is endless. Loss of park and ride facilities provided, i.e highways, schools etc. worrying future for traffic flows in and has led to the town becoming choked with What has not been highlighted by around Maidstone makes me question traffic. Increased use of traffic lights leads to anyone in the current local plan debate is Maidstone Council's decision to collapse to more rat runs, and it is very noticeable how that Maidstone Borough Council is not local pressure and drop completely the many people are jumping the lights. There is a responsible for providing this Linton park-and-ride proposal. lack of leadership at all levels when it comes infrastructure, and therefore cannot reduce It was in the wrong position and should to getting a south to north bypass (I suspect the housing target without input from Kent be placed at the foot of Linton Hill on the self-interested Nimbys are preventing that). County Council. approaches to Marden. Perhaps some Worst of all is the building of housing es- We have been asking for and waiting for businesses could benefit – certainly the tates on greenfield sites. There is no thought this input for many months and all we get local pub but does it not make sense to about providing the required infrastructure from KCC leader Paul Carter is rhetoric offer an element of services such as car such as schools, GP surgeries and transport. and the promise of a public meeting in cleaning, servicing, MOTs etc? Maidstone is not a town of the future but February. This could also reduce traffic needing to one of a lost quality of life. Ask anyone in The time has now come for KCC to put enter the town centre. The council must be Maidstone about their quality of life in terms its money where its mouth is and to positive in tackling our serious traffic of the above, and I suspect the answers would respond to the latest Reg 19 local plan problems – and I see just negativity. be an overwhelming agreement that it has report so that those sites with severe Richard Maryan, by email Contact our team ... Stephen Eighteen Diane Nicholls Jane Shotliff Dawn Kingsford Editor Assistant editor Journalist Journalist [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233 01622 734735 ext 233

30 Maidstone East February 2016 downsmail.co.uk

A GINGER-coloured cocker spaniel reports Crime about one year old was stolen from the county showground in Detling Hill.A Neighbourhood Watch silver VW Polo was seen leaving the area at speed. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A car parked in Senacre Square, Senacre was broken into and items were stolen. The rear number plate was taken from a enquiries are ongoing. found burned out. Enquiries are ongoing. Ford Focus parked in Ragstone Road, A home in Hockers Lane, Detling was Doors were damaged in an aempt to Bearsted. broken into and jewellery was stolen. break in to a property in Lane, The windscreen wipers and mirror glass A Ford Focus was broken into in a car Bicknor. were stolen from a car parked on a park in Deringwood Drive, Downswood. The front wheels were stolen from a Ford driveway in Mynn Crescent, Bearsted. A Tom-Tom sat-nav, jewellery and cash Transit van parked in a layby in The door and window of a car were were stolen. Valley. damaged in Abigail Crescent, Walderslade A vehicle was damaged while it was The window of a car parked in Graveney but nothing was taken. parked outside the owner’s property in Road, Senacre was smashed. A man was A trailer was taken from an outbuilding Goldthorne Close, Vinters Park. seen behaving suspiciously at the time. in Road, Boxley. A silver and black Raleigh Mustang A caravan, trailer and an outbuilding Items were stolen from a building in mountain bike was stolen from the were broken into at a commercial yard in Lock Lane, Sandling. communal area of a block of flats in Pilgrims Way, Boxley. Nothing appeared A portable toilet was taken from outside Chiltern Close, Downswood. to have been taken. a premises in The Street, Boxley. A garage in a block in Close, The side window of a car was smashed Two cars were taken from a driveway in Vinters Park was broken into and fishing in Shoreham Walk, Senacre but nothing Birch Drive, Lordswood after a break-in at equipment stolen. was taken. a property in which the keys were stolen. Parts were removed from a vehicle A commercial property was broken into An Audi TT was later recovered, but a grey parked on the owner’s drive in Hill in Pilgrims Way, Boxley and agricultural Audi RS3 saloon, with a registration Crescent, Lenham. plant was damaged. starting GC15, is still missing. A vehicle was taken from a garden in A van parked on the driveway of a A car parked in a layby in Boxley Road, Greenway Lane, Harrietsham. property in Woolley Road, Senacre was Boxley was broken into and items stolen. A Kia Rio parked in High Street, Lenham broken into but nothing appeared to have Alcohol was stolen in a break-in at a was scratched. been taken. building in Lock Lane, Sandling. A small green trailer was stolen from a An outbuilding in Pilgrims Way, Boxley garden in Greenway Lane, Harrietsham. was entered and several hay bales were A Ford Mondeo parked on a driveway in PROTECT stolen. Hill Crescent, Lenham was damaged. A A container on a building site in Orchard man ran off when he was disturbed by the YOUR HOME View, Detling was entered and equipment resident. ALARMS FROM was stolen. A storage unit was broken into in £495+VAT A building site was broken into in Gravelly Boom Road, Broomfield and Pilgrims Way, Thurnham. Men were seen tools were stolen. ALARMS & SECURITY LTD behaving suspiciously in the area and A car parked on land in Stockbury was 01622 880751 Summer fun Tracking phone habits THE 2016 Rio Olympics will be the theme of Hollingbourne’s fete this sum- mer. BUSINESSES in Maidstone town A series of six nodes positioned ple identified in different locations. The village summer fete and dog centre are being urged to embrace in the town was able to capture Mr Hotchkiss said: “Data scien- show committee has voted to make the mobile phone tracking to keep mobile phone activity and also de- tists understand in minute detail Olympics a feature of this year’s annual pace with online shopping. tect how many shoppers logged how people use websites. We need event on June 11 at the Lance Memorial Tracking software is now avail- into Google, Facebook, to obtain insights into Playing Field – two months ahead of the able, which can monitor shoppers’ Amazon and Twitter to how people behave if we event in Rio. movements and habits. potentially compare are to remain competi- The fete always attracts visitors from The data gathered can be used prices of goods for sale tive. Data such as this can the village’s twin town of Templeuve, by retailers to counter shoppers’ in shops. be used to reveal what although fewer are anticipated this year drift away from town centre stores Town centre retailers are the busiest times, due to a clash with Templeuve's Wind- to the comfort of their computer. could soon take up the how often shoppers re- mill Festival. However, its Zumba dance The system was trialled in Maid- service to retain their turn to a particular loca- group has promised to come. stone on Black Friday in Novem- market share. tion and how long they ber – supposedly the busiest day Scout Solutions direc- spent in that environ- for bargains prior to Christmas – tor Pete Hotchkiss, pic- ment. on behalf of Maidstone Council tured, said: “Increasing “We can also find out Fly-tipping and Maidstone Town Centre Man- numbers of people are making how many people are simply HOLLINGBOURNE Parish Council has agement. By tracking shoppers’ their purchases online. If high browsing, then ordering online via urged residents to report cases of fly- mobile phones, a company – aptly street shops are to retain their their phones – or possibly shop- tipping to Maidstone Council. named Scout Solutions Ltd – was share of the market, we need to en- ping later at home.” In the past few weeks, a large amount able to discover 3,135 people vis- courage people to buy in the high November 2015 was the eighth of unsightly, unhealthy rubbish was ited the area between McDonalds street.” month in a row that shopkeepers dumped close to the recycling point in in Week Street, the bottom of Using sophisticated hardware, had noted a decline in footfall and Station Lane – close to a new housing Gabriel’s Hill, the High Street and the company can track shoppers Black Friday shoppers were 3.4% development. King Street between November 25 whose mobile phones are switched down on the previous month. and December 8. on. However, they cannot identify Tracking services can be com- The busiest days for unique vis- individuals nor any of the content bined with Google analytics and itors were November 28, Decem- on their phones – just their location other software, such as weather Castle boost ber 2, 6 and 8. and usage. forecasts, to more accurately pre- FRESH investment is being made at The busiest times were at about Analysing the data with equally dict and monitor trends. Leeds Castle. noon and between 4pm and 7pm. sophisticated software enables the Improvements are being made to the The busiest footfall was in the area company to eliminate multiple sig- How do you feel about your mo- kitchen that serves the visitor restau- surrounding The Mall and nals – so the 3,135 shoppers were bile phone being tracked? Email rant and its education centre – an in- Gabriels Hill. individuals and not the same peo- [email protected] creasingly busy facility – will be doubled in size.

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Maidstone East February 2016 41 downsmail.co.uk

a retrospective application for the use of Public forum A resident spoke about

aihCouncils Parish Boughton Malherbe land next to Gramerci, Mas Hill Road, problems with rat-run traffic speeding in Public session The surface of Liverton Hill Rainham, for hardstanding and stationing of The Street in the mornings. The chairman was breaking after frosts and rain and the one mobile home and one touring caravan, stated he had had a meeting with KCC Cllr whole road was looking very bad. Borough and construction of a single-storey detached Jenny While and a highways officer and a Cllr Martin Round would pursue this with building for use as a day room. A leer scheme had been considered by the parish KCC Cllr Jenny While. would be sent to Medway Council asking council prohibiting access at the top junction Police report There were no crimes reported. what enforcement action was to be taken. of the A249. This scheme had been approved There were three calls to the police involving Budget A draft budget was prepared. The by the parish council but KCC had to an abandoned vehicle, a found dog and a chairman explained that increasingly village progress and undertake a consultation suspect person. maintenance had to be managed by the period. The chairman stated he was aware of Community warden The community parish council. It was agreed that the precept the resident’s frustration and the parish warden and PCSO had been to see residents (based on band D properties) be increased council was working with KCC to try to find in Liverton Hill to help set up a by £6.10 per year. This is conditional on a way forward. Neighbourhood Watch scheme there. confirmation of funding from Maidstone Parked car Concerns were raised regarding Speed Watch No sessions had been carried Council. a car parked outside the church in a out recently but would be resumed when Drains The district manager of Kent dangerous position. It was confirmed that the weather improved. Highway Services had apologised that the this did belong to a resident and PCSO Liverton Hill A petition about weight drains in Hurstwood Road had not yet been Adlington would look into this. restriction was going well and would be cleared and he was now chasing up this Rubbish bins The rubbish bins in the parish presented to the jojnt transportation board in work. were full and not being emptied on a regular April. The one pothole at the boom was Licence A leer was received from the basis again. The clerk would liaise with now four and geing deeper, resulting in Diocese of Rochester, landlord of Bredhurst Maidstone Council. complaints. Village Hall regarding the village hall Footpath The footpath from Hockers Lane to Ditches and gullies KCC said the banks in alcohol licence application. The diocese had Thurnham Lane was overgrown and in need Elmstone Road needed resolving before the not been consulted by the applicant. It of cuing back. The clerk would report this road and water issues could be sorted. highlighted the application had been to KCC. However, the banks are privately owned. submied in an incorrect name and Highways The chairman reported that Church Road The slippage repair would be considered the hours to be excessive and Stockbury Parish Council had bought its done in April, after lambing at an likely to cause nuisance. It also stated that no own No HGVs signs at a fraction of the cost approximate cost of £75,000. permission had been sought for the that KCC would charge. He suggested that Bus service 59 The buses would continue to installation of the bar which breached a this may be something the parish council run but they must be used. covenant. It concluded that the application could consider at some point. Waterside Park A maximum payment of did not have its support. (The licensing Old School Playing Field John Monk £250 to the Joint Parishes Group regarding hearing, scheduled for November 30, had reported that two trees were dead and opposition to M20 J8 Waterside Park been cancelled.) Responses were received needed to be removed and he would action development was agreed. from Maidstone Council in respect of this. The chairman thanked him for his work Parish history book Just over half the free Freedom of Information requests submied in the parish. books had been distributed. International by the parish council and a resident. Defibrillator It was suggested that the Index had been registered and sales were Maidstone Council was in correspondence telephone box in the centre of the village going well. with the parish council regarding the could house the defibrillator. The parish Lier pick This was suggested for the end of temporary events notice application process council could buy this for £1 and have the March. Volunteers would be sought to help. and events held over Christmas 2014 where payphone decommissioned. It was agreed it appeared, alcohol was sold without a that the council supported the idea of having licence. The parish council was acting on a defibrillator in the parish if the grant Bredhurst behalf of residents who had objected to the application was successful. Vegetation A local contractor had begun recent alcohol licence application. It was cuing back vegetation on either side of the agreed to write to Bredhurst Village Hall M2 bridge in Forge Lane and more work trustees requesting a meeting to discuss their Downswood was planned. It was suggested that a recent application and to see how they could Police report There had been a report of a schedule of works be issued to affected work with the parish council and residents youth throwing a bike on Deringwood Drive residents. on any future applications. but no youths were at the scene when a Playground repairs Three quotes had been police patrol arrived. received. It was proposed that the Plants Maidstone Council had been unable replacement neing to the multi-play unit Detling to source 9cm pot plants for the Jubilee and the bridge and chain repairs be dealt Parking The chairman briefed PCSO Ma triangle and had offered to supply all plants with separately as these were expensive Adlington on the problems with parking on as plugs. It was agreed the odds of plugs items. Cllr Malcolm Greer had agreed to the junction of Hockers Lane and Ware surviving the winter were not good. meet with contractors to discuss these major Street. The PCSO said he would monitor the Consideration would be given to growing repairs in more detail. It was agreed that area. The issue was also raised by residents the plugs on prior to planting or delaying for ARD be appointed to complete repairs for during the public session. larger plants to become available. the minor items highlighted in the annual Vacancy No applications had been received Royal birthday Suggestions would be inspection report. for the parish councillor vacancy and it was welcome as to how Downswood should Parish clerk Applications for the vacancy agreed that this should be advertised in the celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. had closed. Many thanks were given to the Detling News until the vacancy had been Defibrillator An order had been placed for a clerk Wendy Kemp for her four years work filled. defibrillator, cabinet and equipment at a cost with the parish council and for agreeing to Neighbourhood Watch PCSO Adlington of £1,704. The ambulance service would be stay in post until a replacement was found. confirmed that he had made contact with the informed when the defibrillator had been Planning Regarding an application for two Neighbourhood Watch representatives for installed. detached dwellings on land north of Blind the village and was due to meet with Darren Lane, Bredhurst, Mr Alister Hume, Seal representing the applicant, gave the Buses Residents had raised concerns Hollingbourne rationale for the revised proposal which was regarding the bus service for Detling, stating Lorries Lorry drivers were still parking for six houses. The application was that these were not coming through the illegally along the M20 near J8 and the approved with conditions on the height of village regularly, leaving residents stranded. roundabout. Traffic cones had the dwellings, the height and type of There were also rumours that the bus service been placed in these areas but were being landscaping, a requirement on the developer for Detling was changing. The clerk would moved to enable parking. The parish council to improve and upgrade the surface of Blind liaise with Arriva regarding the 333 and 334 would continue to raise this issue with the Lane and to improve the junction at Forge buses. police and residents were reminded to pass Lane. Stockbury community bus The clerk was to information to the parish clerk. Enforcement Medway Council had refused establish more details about this service. Crime report There had been five crimes

42 Maidstone East February 2016 Parish Councils 43 mail.co.uk downs Langley’s February 2016 February A new quote was It was suggested that Dawn Riach-Brown Maidstone East The invitation to attend the The external auditor had The main concern was the Twelve calls had been received There had been a preservation An email from Katie Cullen at A meeting was held with An event had been organised to A new camera had been installed on of placing an aerial onCCTV the coverage church of tower the for squaresurrounding and area. right of way next todevelopers the planned school. to The build onof the the legal path, line which meantapply they directly were to able Maidstone to Councildivert to the footpath under the Town and during the previous month, includingfrom theft a van, criminal damagemotorbike. and Four theft arrests of were a madeMartins at Gardens. Community warden reported on damage to aPye resident’s Corner. grass She at had informedadvised the the PCSO resident and to reportTree it works to the police. order on the metasequoia treebuilding in plot the next to theagreed school. they Councillors would like therestored order as to the be tree wasschool planted 40 by years the ago to show children how Police report Otham Public forum situation regarding the local planwas and being what done to opposedevelopment. future Annual return approved the 2014/15 annual return. Parish questionnaire/neighbourhood plan Cllr Trench had completed additionalwith work the questionnaire, which comprisedpages. 36 Cllr Gandotra would assistTrench Cllr in preparing the presentationresidents’ for meeting the which would besoon held as as possible at StPlanning Nicholas’s Church. Bellway/DHA at Downswood Community Centre to listen to developmentregarding proposals Bicknor Green. Football ground official opening of the floodlights arrived too Otham’s spring clean should bethe tied official in Clean with for theMarch Queen 4, weekend 5 on and 6. Councillors were asked about specific projects they would like to2016. be Suggestions undertaken included in the villagevillage hall, green, roads and bus shelter. anticipated that the work mightout be under carried KCC Cllr Garryan Cooke’s autumn offer clean. for Clean for the Queen KCC had been received regarding the public Country Planning Act. Maidstone Council would administer the diversion application and KCC were simply consulted.would The contact clerk Maidstone Council toif confirm a diversion application hadensure been the made parish to council is consulted. trees looked in the ageCCTV of the dinosaurs. the pavilion. Plaque celebrate the installation of thevillage plaque hall in to the honour theFootpaths Tassels. late for members to attend.the A club meeting was with being planned. Otham/Langley 2016 competition clerk had agreed to approachideas. councillors Comments for were awaited. White Horse Lane ditch being prepared as the lengthgreater of than the originally ditch estimated. was It was The volunteer The holes in the car park The proposed increased Cllr Culver was organising a A parishioner reported a street A meeting had been held with A meeting with the Kent The community warden reported Concerns were raised about the reasons. A separate quote wouldfor be replacing sought lamps at theLaw community and centre. order meeting with Rev Venn to discuss the option soon as possible, for health and safety floodlights in Maidstone Road car park as HGVs could not be stopped as local resolved to buy traffic conescar to park close during off repair the works.would Loxton be Ltd instructed to replace the on recent incidences concerning tricksters offering to carry out freeand home then safety charging checks for unnecessaryprovided work. information He on the availabilityhome of security marking tools andfrom a Maidstone device Council which monitors room temperatures and sends textwarn alerts of to temperature changes. Planning noise level relating to theinstallation proposed of air conditioning unitsretail on building the at the formerFaversham ironmonger’s Road. on The planning committee would monitor the situation onresidents behalf close of to the site. Highways Highway Services steward had proved useful. The junction at Sandwayvegetation would cut have back and therepainted. road The markings use of the narrow lanes by businesses and farmers need tosites. access A their meeting with Maidstonewould Council be organised to discussrestrictions parking on Old Ashford Road. It was Lenham Public forum light in need of repairgents’ and public requested toilets that have the bothworking cubicles order. in A quote wouldrepair/replacement. be A sought resident for raised concerns relating to speeding traffic, particularly from Old Ashford RoadSquare. to Cllr The Scrivens confirmed thatwere works in hand to addressthroughout several the traffic parish. issues Glebe Gardens housing at Glebe Gardens wasa discussed parishioner as highlighted the needthe to pond protect and surrounding areadevelopment. from Tricksters been seen using the correctmessage routes. was The geing there butwork there to was still do. A numbercontacted of were the very companies much inproposed support relief of road the and wouldthey do could what to support theMaintenance campaign. KCC to ascertain its responsibilitiesparish for maintenance. The parish council would be formulating a plannot for covered the by areas KCC anddiscussed this at should the be next parishA council resident meeting. in Wykeham Groveconcerned was about parked vehicles closejunction to of the the B2163 makingwhen it turning difficult into the grove.also Concern expressed was about overgrown vegetation in George Lane blocking sunlighthouses from in the grove. Thewould parish look council into both theseCommunity maers. police officer earmarked for the village hadso moved the away parish council wasconsultation back with in the police onproceed. how to Church car park had been filled and thealongside lier the bin bench relocated outside the car park. It was unlikely The parish council Of the 42 HGVs spoed during Momentum was building with Residents were asked to report The parking in the village on the Concern over water pollution had Roof repairs at the Cardwell Sadly, former parish councillor place. Volunteers were needed tothe help list swell so as to present a meaningful Details could be found on the village notice the Leeds/Langley relief road petition in outcome to Maidstone Council and KCC. board, Leeds website or contact Cllr Lesley co-ordinating the petition. Martin ([email protected]) who is Lorry Watch the month, 43% were of36% the were 44,000kg of class, the 18,00021% kg were class between and the the 21,000 final classes. and It 32,000kg was also noticeable that some of the previously more difficult companies had Leeds Highways sightings of HGVs to the clerk or on the working with trading standards asthe well police as with some success. Relief road Pavilion were agreed at a costplus of Vat. It £265.50 was agreed tofor buy use a by larger both fridge ofwould the belong regular to hirers. the It parishwould council arrange which for the cleanermonthly. to A defrost request it from theobtain pre-school artificial to grass for thearea outside was play approved. Godfrey Meadow confirmed to Wealden Homes and Maidstone Council that Godfrey Meadow would be a suitable namedevelopment for next the to 103 EyhorneBorough Street. councillor’s report that Cllr Daphne Parvin wouldelection stand next for year re- and Patrick Gartenbe would the Conservative candidate for theat ward the borough council electionsparish in council May. would The miss hershe very had much worked as tirelessly andlocal loyally people for for the many years. Tribute Laurie Hack, who was chairman1990s, in had the died following arabbi long who illness. conducted The the funeraleveryone had feel made very welcome, regardless of their faith. Mr Hack wouldmissed be by greatly his family, friendsorganisations and he the supported. local The parish council appreciated all his hardPollution work. been expressed by residents inHouse River and Farm adjoining houses wherebourne the flows through the gardensgoing before under Eyhorne Street viatunnels. some The small Environment Agency hadthe taken maer up with Wealden Homespollution and had the now stopped. Fireworks fireworks night had caused problems. Residents could not drive inCulpeper or Close, out which of could haveproblems caused if emergency vehicles hadaccess. needed A parishioner had contactedpolice the but had been toldwould that have the finished event before officersvisit could the scene. On araised positive a note, commendable the £1,089 event forand the village school good causes. Howevercouncil the would parish in future firmlyparking request marshals that be present andaend. that PCSOs reported: aempted burglary of ain dwelling Eyhorne Street, burglary ofCulpeper a Close, dwelling criminal in damage in Eyhorne Street, thefts from twoEyhorne dwellings Street in and theft onPavilion Pilgrims Way. parish website. 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