Bed-Blocking Crisis As Care Targets Missed

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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling November 2015 No. 223

News Bed-blocking crisis County departure KCC is planning to remove its services from Maidstone Gate- way in King Street to save as care targets missed money. 4 BED-blocking in local hospitals has reached an “unprecedented level”, with Donations suffer KCC flouting care transfer targets by more than nine times. CHARITIES are missing out due In July 2015 there were 1,529 in- and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust. gent Care Network – has been inef- to a loss of business car stances – more than double the total The trust board was told that un- fective.” parks to housing. 6 a year earlier – where patients were less the issues were resolved the hos- During July in the Maidstone and stuck in beds in West Kent hospitals pitals would struggle to cope with Tunbridge Wells hospitals there (covering Maidstone, Tonbridge, demand, even when a new ward were 250 patients waiting for trans- Transport closure Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells) opens at Tunbridge Wells Hospital. fer. The situation improved slightly THE park and ride facility at Sit- O without a suitable place of transfer. The problem is compromising in August, but there were still care tingbourne Road will 22 A Of these, 687 were due to a lack of standard four-hour A&E waiting transfer delays for 181 inpatients close next year. p social care capacity – massively time targets, as well as care for pa- (7.1%) in the two hospitals. This ac- n breaching the target of 77 – leading tients undergoing booked opera- counted for 1,400 lost bed days. to a threat from NHS bosses to sub- tions. Extra beds and temporary staff After a meeting of the trust, KCC Longer lifespans mit invoices to social services and have been deployed. and Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge RESIDENTS of villages in the KCC. A report to the Maidstone and Wells and local government secre- North Downs lead local “The lack of engagement from Tunbridge Wells Trust board said: tary, the trust backed down on its life expectancy rates. 32 senior officials within social services “The local committee established to threat to invoice the county is regrettable,” said the Maidstone manage emergency care – the Ur- council. 18 Money worries FINANCIAL issues dominated en- New challenge quiries to Maidstone Cit- Call to protect cherry trees izens Advice Bureau. 40 AUTUMN leaves and their to M20 J8 snub Comment 42-4346-47 glorious red tinge create a THE Gallagher group is to challenge charm that makes this a Government inspector’s decision Obituaries 44 season the most special for to refuse it permission for a ware- many. house development close to M20 Parish Councils 58-59 But residents in Salisbury Junction 8. Road, Maidstone – The company says Maidstone A ONE-WAY system was wanted including Pat Walsh, Council’s opposition to its Waterside in Bredhurst; whippet racers pictured – are berating the Park proposal relied too heavily on were leaving rubbish in Detling; loss of some autumn colour its existing local plan, which is now horse manure was being left on after two of their beloved irrelevant, and on evidence by Cllr paths in Downswood; a new cherry trees were cut down Tony Harwood, labelled “a self-con- neighbourhood plan was desired by KCC. fessed enthusiastic amateur” by Gal- in Harrietsham; football parking They fear that more of lagher Properties’ chief executive was a problem in Leeds. Salisbury Road’s trees, Nick Yandle. which produce a stunning A High Court judge will examine Crime Reports 59 spring blossom, could be on January 13 whether the devel- for the chop unless the oper’s challenge to the ruling by in- road is designated a spector Katie Peerless justifies a fresh conservation area. public inquiry. Full story – page three. Mr Yandle told Downs Mail: “We are not picking on Tony Harwood, or his comments, but no matter how earnest he may be, a public inquiry NEW INDIAN TAKEAWAY is an evidence-based process and the Park attraction Opening on Tuesday 27th October planning inquiry inspector put far too much weight on his narrative THE new Cobtree Visitor Centre Order on line www.jhalchilli.com over the evidence.” The planning in- and Cafe has opened to visitors. spector dismissed two proposals for For more information see the the site on appeal in September, one Maidstone Council-sponsored 01622 205205 12-page Borough Update in the 61, Union St. Maidstone ME14 1ED of 56,000sqm and a smaller scheme of 45,528sqm. 34 centre pages.

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2 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Care home is ‘’welcoming’ Call to protect road’s A CARE home in Bearsted for the elderly – some of whom have dementia – has earned praise from a government inspector. cherry trees from axe In an unannounced visit, the Care Quality Commission found RESIDENTS in Salisbury Road, Residents hope they and neigh- Maidstone want their street made Hillbeck Residential Care Home in bours in Curzon Road and St Luke’s part of a conservation area after two Road can create a conservation area Roundwell to be safe, effective, re- cherry trees were chopped down to protect the remaining trees. sponsive, caring and well-led, earn- without warning. In the meantime, KCC Cllr Ian ing it a “good” rating overall. Homeowner Pat Walsh was horri- Chittenden has funded the replace- The report said there were 37 fied when she woke one morning to ment of about 40 trees and is com- people living at the home when it find KCC workmen taking down one mitted to replacing five more trees in was inspected, adding: “People felt of the trees outside her home – while Holland Road, Curzon Road, Cray- safe and staff understood their re- a dead one remained standing at the ford Close and Sittingbourne Road sponsibilities to protect people liv- far end of the street. before April next year. ing with dementia. Pat and her husband Liam have Although he suspects he has no “The registered manager and lived in Salisbury Road for the past 13 funds left in his devolved budget, he care staff use their experience and years. She said: “The tree was one of has offered to make re-planting in knowledge of people’s needs to as- the reasons we bought the house. It Salisbury Road a priority in the next sess how they plan people’s care to was home to a whole host of birds – financial year. maintain their safety, health and sparrows, starlings and crows. We’ve Mr and Mrs Walsh believed the wellbeing.” Residents of Salisbury Road enjoy even had a baby jay and a crested tit views of cherry blossom in the spring tree outside their home was not dis- The inspector found policies and – birds which are on the RSPB’s con- eased, but Cllr Chittenden said he procedures for the safe administra- servation lists.” an indication that there is a problem was satisfied, having seen photos and tion of medicines that staff fol- KCC say the trees were inspected between the roots and the stem of the spoken to the arboriculturist, that it lowed and for which they had been and found to be diseased. They only tree, or root death. was affected by die-back. Mrs Walsh trained; residents had access to GPs inform residents if more than three “The trees in Salisbury Road are said: “Surely we should be preserv- and were referred promptly to trees are due to be felled. neither covered by a tree preservation ing trees, not chopping them down?” medical care if they became unwell. A spokesman said: “The tree out- order, nor were they situated in a Erica Longdon, who now faces a Residents and their families de- side No 52 had a large dead section conservation area, so we will not be stark-looking stump instead of a ma- scribed the service as welcoming over the carriageway and severe planting any replacement trees.” ture tree, said: “The cherry trees cre- and friendly and the staff support- crown dieback, while a second tree, KCC’s remit for tree work only ate a spectacular display in the ive and compassionate, upholding outside No 21, had major deadwood covers safety issues and removal of spring. We need to make sure no their right to choose who was in- and 50% crown dieback. dead and dying trees which could more are axed without proper con- volved in their care. “These types of defect are usually put the public at risk. sultation.” 01622 738772 HAMILTON KITCHENS 7 Yeoman Court, Ashford Rd Bearsted, Kent ME14 4ND www.directorshairandbeauty.co.uk

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Maidstone East November 2015 3 News downsmail.co.uk Teenagers help young minds Gateway’s future at risk A CHARITY has been fundraising to encourage positive attitudes to mental health among the young. as KCC considers move As part of the National Citizen Service (NCS) a group of young people, led by Mahria Hafiz, took KENT County Council is poised to chairman of Citizens Advice Maid- part in a cake sale at Cornwallis leave Maidstone Council in the stone, said the CAB service was Academy, a pub quiz and a hand lurch with news it might pull out of well-used in the Gateway, being in car wash at The Bell pub in Maidstone Gateway. an ideal location. He feared the pro- Bearsted raising a total of £216.15. The Gateway, designed to offer a posed move would make the KCC The Bearsted pub featured in the “one-stop shop” of services to the services less accessible. fundraising because one of the community, including advice on He said: “Not every problem can team is the daughter of the publi- housing, benefits and council tax, is set the unprecedented financial chal- be sorted on the telephone or can. on King Street, close to the bus sta- lenge faced by the council. through a computer. Mahria said: “The NCS chal- tion and The Mall shopping centre. “If, following this consultation, we “The present Maidstone Gateway lenges young people from different KCC contributes half the property decide to relocate away from the is ideally situated being just above backgrounds to work together. I costs of the building – £162,000 per Gateway we will deliver our face-to- the bus station and next to extensive am involved with the Charlton Ath- year – and provides or commissions face services from other KCC build- parking. The alternatives being con- letic Community Trust, an organi- the Kent-supported employment ings in Maidstone. sidered, such as the Kent Library sation that delivers the NCS clinics, the health trainer service, an “We would ensure that those who and History Centre or County Hall, programme. Age UK helpdesk and a deaf serv- currently use the Gateway to meet are far less accessible.” “This team believed strongly that ices drop-in clinic. our staff for specific services and KCC will finalise its decision in the mental health issues among the However, KCC has decided that clinics will still be able to do so.” new year. young was an important cause and keeping its services in the Gateway KCC argues that of the 50,406 A spokesman for Maidstone raised money for YoungMinds, a does not represent best value for recorded visits to the Gateway in Council said: “We remain commit- charity providing helpline services money and is considering relocating 2014, only 4% (2,919) were for KCC ted to providing excellent customer and case workers for young people its services and withdrawing its services or those that it commissions services, including face-to-face facil- with issues like depression and funding. or funds. This equates to more than ities for people who need them. We anxiety. It has launched a 12-week consul- £55 for each visitor. are looking at options, including an- “Their efforts were impressive tation on the proposal to move its The remaining visits were for other public sector partnership, to and we had a lot of positive re- services to other public buildings in Maidstone Council services (88%) continue to provide services from sponses from local people.” Maidstone from October next year. and 8% for other partner organisa- the Gateway.” Bryan Sweetland, KCC’s cabinet tions, such as the Citizens Advice The online link to the consultation member for commercial services, can be found at http://consulta- Read the Downs Mail online Bureau, HMRC, Victim Support or at www.downsmail.co.uk said: “Relocating KCC services from the Royal British Legion. tions.kent.gov.uk/consult.ti/maid- FREE Maidstone Gateway will help to off- County Cllr Rob Bird, who is also stonegateway/consultationHome

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4 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Music on Green tickets go on sale TICKETS will shortly be on sale Chair of the organising commit- for Music on the Green 2016 – but tee, Jo Conner, said: “This is a not- initially only to Bearsted residents. for-profit event and any money Local people are to be given a raised after expenses will be for two-week priority “window” to get charity. In line with the parish their tickets for the event on August council’s wishes, we want to make Bank Holiday Sunday next year. sure that local people get the first Concerns were expressed by chance to purchase tickets before some parish councillors that many they go on general release.” of the 4,000 visitors in previous Music on the Green became a vic- years came from outside the area, tim of its own success in 2010 and prompting organisers to let local 2011, drawing crowds of people, al- folk have first bite of the cherry. legedly from all over the borough. As well as being able to book It has not taken place for the past adult, children’s and concessionary two years because the parish coun- tickets via an online link, they will cil felt it was too much of a task to also be able to reserve one of two organise and not something they dozen gazebos, in case of inclement were sufficiently qualified to take weather or for family parties. on. Leaflets have been going out to Villagers rallied to the cause and houses in Bearsted and Thurnham agreed to stage the event in their regarding the event on August 28 place, along with the generous as- and many of the bands have al- sistance of local professionals with ready been provisionally booked. the relevant skills for the job. A local pub has agreed to spon- Jo said: “The team is excited to sor Music on the Green 2016 and bring the event back with a bang any money raised will go to three for the villagers and their friends charities – the NSPCC and two and families and hope it will be a local organisations. day that all can enjoy.”

From left, Diane Moynes, Catherine Payne, Brenda Clayton, Barty House the tilecompany manager Jacqui Butler, Michael Ash Visit our showroom for and Gillian Ash. an extensive range of Care home service awards beautiful tiles A HEALTHCARE assistant from Bearsted has received an award for reaching 20 years’ service. Mosaics Gillian Ash, who works at Barty House in Roundwell, has received an award from Canford Healthcare, which acknowledged 40 staff Porcelain superstars from the care home group, including five from Barty House, with afternoon tea at the Hydro Hotel in Eastbourne. Ceramic Domestic assistant Diane Moynes, activities co-ordinator Brenda Clayton and kitchen assistants Michael Ash and Catherine Payne have Natural Stone each notched up more than 10 years’ service with the group. Canford directors Barry Lambert and Brian Cooney presented staff with framed certificates, a bouquet of flowers and a voucher for an extra day of paid holiday. Glass tiles and Welly walk to help hospice PULL on your boots and join The Welly Walk, a family event in splashbacks association with Maidstone Riverside Rotary to raise money for the Heart of Kent Hospice on Sunday, November 29. Walkers can explore the footpaths of the North Downs Way on a three-, five- or six-mile circular route from the Kent Showground Showroom at... in Detling, where there will be refreshments and entertainment. Other features of the day include a treasure trail with a prize for 32-34 Union Street, Maidstone Kent ME14 1ED every child, a best-dressed welly competition, welly-tossing and a hog roast. Tickets are £7 for adults and £3 for under 18s. Family Tel: 01622 683375 tickets are available for £18 (two adults, two children) and £21 (two [email protected] adults and three children). To book, call 01622 790 195. www.ceramictileagency.co.uk

Maidstone East November 2015 5 News downsmail.co.uk War memorial dedication Car parks ‘lost THE Bishop of Dover will re-dedicate the war memorial in Harrietsham at 2pm on Saturday, November 7. A generous grant from KCC Cllr Jenny Whittle initiated the fundraising, with the rest donated by individuals, community groups, events and Har- to developers’ rietsham Parish Council. This paid for the renovation of the memorial and the fitting of seven new plaques bearing the 49 names of the men, women THE loss of business car parks to weekends leading up to Christmas and children who died during the development is changing the face by the Rotary Club of Maidstone, two world wars. of town centre parking – and one whose loss could see donations re- Guests will include residents worrying side effect is a reduction duce from £5,000 to £2,000 this sea- and relatives of those named on in donations to local charities. son. the memorial, the Mayor of Developers are taking over Unless other parks belatedly be- Maidstone, the Royal British Le- empty outdated office buildings come available, Rotary parking this gion and the Scout and Guide and gaining planning permissions year will be reduced to: movement. for change of use, often to residen- Victoria Court, opposite Haynes Members of The Queen’s Own tial flats or apartments. in Ashford Road. Royal West Kent Living History Many of these buildings have car Whitehead Monckton, solicitors, Group will be there with authen- parking attached and much of this 74 King Street. tic World War I uniforms and is disappearing to meet the heavy Chaucer House, Knightrider equipment. demand for residential or other Street – available for the first time. The re-dedication ceremony commercial uses. Rotary members and friends will will be followed by refreshments Most significant recent substan- man the three parks from 8.30am to in St John the Baptist Church. tial losses have been at: 4pm on five days: December 5, 12, The event will also see the launch Kent House, Romney Place – 13, 19 and 20 and parkers will be in- of the second Harrietsham His- now to be converted to flats with vited to donate to local charities. tory Society book, about the men the car park off Mote Road Rotary co-ordinator and past and women who lost their lives in contracted out to a commercial car president Robert Wicken (tele- World War I. park operator. phone 07976 360322), said: “The Mike Bishop, one of the organ- The Corpus Christie town’s car park policy will cer- isers of the project, said: “The redevelopment at the junction of tainly damage our charitable col- dedication comes at the end of a Pudding Lane and Earl Street. lections – and I fear the cumulative two-year project to research those originally named on the memorial and Both these large car parks have impact will be harmful to town cen- track and add the details of those missed when the memorial was first un- been used for charity parking in the tre Christmas trade.” veiled in 1920. At the start of the project the memorial included 23 names, 14 from the First World War and nine from the Second World War. A further 26 individuals have now been identified, researched and their details For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk added, along with cleaning and some minor repair work.”

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Maidstone East November 2015 7 News downsmail.co.uk Put your safety fears in writing Pupils are rewarded HOLLINGBOURNE Parish Council is urging worried parents to put their concerns about the lack of a safe crossing for school children on for their dedication the Ashford Road in writing. The parish council says concern NEARLY a dozen youngsters from has grown about youngsters cross- Maidstone are through to the na- ing the busy road to catch their tional finals of the Try Angle school bus. Awards, celebrating inspirational It wants to make a formal request achievement. to Kent Highway Services for a The winners were announced at footbridge between the round- a ceremony hosted by the young abouts at Leeds Castle and the Mer- people and staff of West Kent cure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. Early Help and Preventative Serv- A spokesman said: “We feel that ices at The Hazlitt Theatre attended by the mayors from the roads are far too busy and dan- The school council from Maplesden Noakes School with its award gerous for village children and Maidstone, Tonbridge and other pedestrians to be crossing, Malling and Tunbridge Wells. Music – Nelson Sinclair-Strong, peer mentor and supports other and a bridge would be ideal. Youngsters aged 11-18 were en- from Oakwood Park Grammar young careers. “However, we need written evi- tered in a variety of categories. School, gained grade 8 in clarinet Personal development – Holly dence of people’s experiences, es- Nominees included the school and piano. Anne Terry has completed her In- pecially to reach the bus stop. This council at Maidstone's Maplesden Sport and outdoor – Alice Hill, dependent Travel Training to free information will add weight to our Noakes School, which received a from Invicta Grammar School, her from her former dependence request for a footbridge, which Try Angle award for its commu- plays squash for Kent and has on assisted transport. without support is fairly unlikely to nity action work with its Grab the competed and coached alongside Positive intervention – Infozone be considered.” Garbage initiative. Chair Tom her classical studies. Maidstone. Amelia Henderson Comments should be emailed to Judd said: “We felt honoured to Community action – Mia Denyer, and Jade Howlett help to run ses- Vicki Smith, the parish clerk, at receive this nomination and to be an active member of Maidstone sions for young people. [email protected] or put noticed for what we have been Youth Forum and a volunteer at Courage – Stephanie Avraamides through the letterbox at the Card- trying to do.” Switch Youth Cafe. has two serious medical condi- well Pavilion, Greenway Court Winners from Maidstone were: Young carers – Josie Skivington, a tions which mean she is in con- Road. Arts – Zoe Hossack (15), who was registered young carer since the stant pain. In spite of this, she diagnosed with autistic spectrum age of eight when she started car- attends Invicta Grammar School For more local news disorder but has worked to de- ing for her mum and brother Kyle. full time, her academic achieve- www.downsmail.co.uk velop her skills in tapestry, cro- Josie is a trained first-aider, a vol- ment is excellent and she always chet, felt, model, and rag crafts. unteer on the Urban Blue Bus, a wears a smile. VILLAGE MAIDSMAIDSTONETONE ChrisChristmastmas RecruitmentRecruitment EVENING

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MAIDSTONE’S PREMIER BED CENTRE

W D INN R I A N

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A Sleeping out to ® SPRING-WITHIN-SPRING help homeless TECHNOLOGY

MEMBERS of 17 Maidstone people as well as offering advice churches slept out for a night to and support. raise awareness and funds for The sponsored sleepout raised homeless people. more than £5,000 which will be di- Volunteers bedded down with vided between the two charities. sleeping bags and cardboard as Archdeacon of Maidstone, The protection against a dry but cold Ven Stephen Taylor, who led the night to raise awareness of the event, said: “The sleepout was to churches’ Winter Shelter scheme, help launch the recruitment of vol- which offers safe, warm protection unteers for this year’s Maidstone Harrisons for rough sleepers during the Churches Winter Shelter. BED TAILOR range worst of the winter months. “The shelter has a strong Chris- The volunteers heard from peo- tian ethos with genuine compas- ple who had turned their lives sion and warm hospitality at its around with the support of the heart. While the churches provide HD AIRFLOW scheme and Homeless Care, which the venue, it is the volunteers who %MV¾S[HSIWI\EGXP][LEXMXWREQIWYKKIWXW operates the Maidstone Day Cen- provide the companionship and tre and meets the many practical help guests regain a sense of dig- GLERRIPPMRKEMVXLVSYKLXLIQEXXVIWW½PPMRKW needs of homeless and vulnerable nity and hope.” ERHHMVIGXMRKMXMRXSXLIWYVJEGI 8LMWEPSRK[MXLWTIGMEPEMVZIRXWLIPTWXLI QEXXVIWWXSFVIEXLIOIITMRKXLI½FVIWJVIWL Where you can oﬀer help ERHHV][LEXIZIVXLIWIEWSR SEVEN churches will be participat- ing for more volunteers to ensure ing in the third year of Maidstone’s that 15 needy people can be helped Winter Shelter for the homeless, every night. Help is needed to set which runs between December 14 up the venues, prepare and serve and March 6. meals, welcome and engage with They will offer overnight accom- guests, serve breakfast and clear up %[EVH[MRRMRK7TVMRK[MXLMR modation, meals and company at at the end of the night. EWTVMRKWMQTP]TVSZMHIWHSYFPIXLIGSQJSVX St Luke’s in St Luke’s Road, Baptist “We also need some special vol- Church in Knightrider Street, unteers prepared to go the extra Quaker Meeting House in Union mile and give up some sleep to Street, Maidstone Family Church in man the shelter overnight,” say the Boxley Road, United Reformed in organisers. Week Street, Salvation Army in “In addition, we would be grate- Union Street and the Methodist ful for any donations of money, Church in Tonbridge Road. food and warm clothing to help us This year similar accommodation help these needy people.” will be provided on some days by Food and clothing can be taken to Maidstone Day Centre in the Salvation Army Citadel. Knightrider Street. Anyone who can help should call The organisers at Maidstone 01622 961616 or online or go to Churches Winter Shelter are look- www.maidstoneshelter.org.uk. Huge selection of beds, mattresses, Banned driver back in court headboards & bedsteads A MAN who committed a string of motoring offences in Maidstone Experienced team offering expert has been told he will go to prison if he fails to keep a clean record for the next year. helpful advice Twenty-two-year-old Daniel Warnes admitted dangerous driving, not having insurance and failing to provide a breath specimen Tailor made & bespoke options available at Junction 8 of the M20 in May last year. In September this year, he drove a VW Polo in Beauworth Park, Maidstone, while serving a driving ban and without insurance. www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk Warnes, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Mid Kent Magis- trates’ Court to 90 days in prison, suspended for 12 months, and or- 01622 753073 dered to carry out 180 hours of unpaid work. Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF

Maidstone East November 2015 9 News downsmail.co.uk Church’s new bell rings out County’s eﬀorts BROOMFIELD Church christened its two new bells with a celebration peal and a blessing from the to help refugees Archdeacon of Maidstone, the Venerable Stephen COUNCIL officers in Maidstone dren under 18 who are asylum seek- Taylor. are working with statutory services ers arriving through the channel Verger Derek Hadlow, in the county to help asylum seek- ports are the responsibility of KCC. who funded one of the ers and refugees coming to Kent. There are currently about 730 un- new bells, also gave a short Maidstone Council’s housing and accompanied children in KCC’s address before they were communities team is liaising with care, of which about 75% are aged rung again in celebration. KCC, other district councils, the po- 16-17. A significant portion come One visitor drove down lice and other services to achieve a from Eritrea, Afghanistan and from Warrington in Lan- “joined up” approach. Africa. cashire especially for the Although accommodating chil- Mrs Broom said: “There is clearly dedication service. dren and young people is the re- considerable cost in providing ap- Another bell is on order sponsibility of KCC, Maidstone propriate accommodation, care and and will bring the tower’s councillors were told that residents support to these looked-after chil- full complement to six. might like to consider helping this dren. There is likely to be an in- priority group. creased service need for over 18s and The council has already begun this in turn will have an impact for Enterprise plan for campus contacting housing associations and district councils if care leavers be- A NEW business enterprise zone giving an upfront cash flow benefit. private landlords who might have come homeless.” could be coming to Kent – incorpo- Local business rate retention properties available for adults and Asylum seekers who cannot sup- rating the upcoming Maidstone means councils can help fund fur- families. port themselves are supported by Medical Campus. ther development within the enter- Chief executive Alison Broom told the government – the only ones di- The campus, in Weavering, has prise zone. members: “There is considerable rectly supported by local authorities linked up with the Rochester Airport Enterprise zones were introduced public interest in the arrangements are the unaccompanied children. Innovation Park and Ebbsfleet Gar- by the Government in 2011 to help that councils are making to ensure a The council is waiting to hear den City to bid for funding as a new create the conditions for strong, sus- constructive and effective response what its responsibilities will be in re- North Kent Innovation Zone. tainable and balanced growth. to the current refugee crisis.” lation to Syrian refugees but Mrs As well as attracting business rate Existing zones have attracted hun- There are now three reception cen- Broom said: “The key services im- discounts, companies working dreds of new start-up firms, with tres in Kent and a national system pacted will be housing, health, edu- within the new enterprise zones are simplified planning rules, super-fast for “distributing” adults and fami- cation, policing and community able to get enhanced capital al- broadband and millions of pounds lies. However, unaccompanied chil- services.” lowances for plant and machinery, in tax breaks for new businesses. WINDOWS & DOORS REQUIRING T.L.C? DON’T REPLACE THEM MAINTAIN THEM! MAINTAINING YOUR EXISTING WINDOWS & DOORS IS CONSIDERABLY MORE COST EFFECTIVE AND MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY THAN REPLACING. UPGRADING TO ENERGY EFFICIENT BFRC A & B RATED GLASS WILL HELP SAVE YOU MONEY ON BILLS. Fairdeal are local specialists in the repair, upgrade and maintenance of double glazed windows and doors. We repair PVCu, Aluminium & Timber Fogged double glazed Local Authority Approved glass units - replaced NO Call out charge with with energy rated glass Free Quotations & Advice Handles & mechanisms repaired & replaced Window and door hinges Thank you for the excellent product and efficient installation of our front porch. and stays “ A large congratulations for the co-ordination of survey, floor laying, door ordering, Leak and draught repairs supplying & fixing is very much appreciated ” Mrs Jupp - Orpington We supply & install windows, doors & conservatories including UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering & Call 01622 902005 FOR FAST FRIENDLY QUOTES & ADVICE www.fairdealwindows.co.uk Celebrating 22 years of continuous trading Find us at: Unit K, Orchard Business Centre, 20/20 Industrial Estate, Aylesford, Kent ME16 0JZ

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Maidstone East November 2015 11 News downsmail.co.uk Call for views on ministry changes CALLING ALL A PRIEST covering churches on going forward, which will be the Pilgrims Way is just one idea “fleshed out” and voted on for- being discussed as part of a possi- mally at a later date before going ble make-over of the way the min- out to wider public consultation, LANDLORDS istry in Maidstone is managed. including public notices. Preliminary talks have been The archdeacon said: “These sparked by vacancies in two neigh- talks are not about closing bouring benefices – at Boxley, churches or cutting posts, but look- Has your current letting agent Detling and Grove Green; and ing how we best run the church’s Hollingbourne, Hucking, Leeds ministry. informed you of the new and Broomfield. “There is a finite number of The Archdeacon of Maidstone, churches and a finite number of legislation which came into the Venerable Stephen Taylor, is staff. These early discussions give holding meetings with the us a chance to look at how we parochial church councils for the might arrange things if we were effect on 1st October ? two church groups and neighbour- starting with a blank piece of paper ing parishes in the North Downs and about making the various Come to Ferris & Co deanery – both vacant and non-va- posts across the deanery fair and cant benefices. equitable.” we have all the right answers He hopes any changes to the He said that while the proposed make-up of how parish churches pastoral scheme did not resolve all are managed will be ready for the issues that need to be consid- wider consultation by the new year ered by clergy, he hoped that any PLUS so the vacant posts at Boxley and decision would make the posts Hollingbourne and the churches in more appealing to those looking to We let most of our their care can be advertised. serve these churches in the future. The draft proposal has been sug- “We are looking to get good peo- properties within 7 days gested by the Deanery’s Mission ple to work in these parishes and and Ministry Committee. The how we make the groupings as at- PCCs will be discussing the best tractive as possible is part of that,” We can offer Smart grouping option of churches for he said. rental protection

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We have more than 20 years experience in property letting Photo: Andy Archer Runners a colourful bunch GIVING YOU ALL RIGHT ANSWERS AN explosion of colour ﬁlled Mote families and workmates gathered at Park when about 1,000 runners were the pre-event party for an energetic showered in powder paint to raise warm up for the Rainbow Fun Run be- money for Heart of Kent Hospice. fore walking, running or skipping the ONE OFFICE, ONE ANSWER Now in its second year, friends, 5km route. Call us today Charity sale for hospice THERE will be a charity sale for the to Maidstone, where they were in- Heart of Kent Hospice at Langley volved with the inauguration of Bearsted Office village hall on Sunday, November the Heart of Kent Hospice in 1985. Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ 29. A spokesman for the hospice said: The sale is being organised by “Norma and David Bennett have Tel: 01622 737800 stalwarts David and Norma Ben- raised thousands of pounds over nett, who have helped raise more the years. We are hugely grateful Penenden Heath Office than £40,000 for the hospice. for all the work they do.” Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN The couple became involved in The charity sale begins at 2pm. the hospice movement after Stalls will include knitted goods, Norma’s father was treated in a soft toys, blankets and dressed dolls, Tel: 01622 671200 hospice in the Midlands. Their as well as bric-a-brac, jigsaws and charity work continued as they children’s toys, plus a raffle, www.ferrisandco.net moved around the country, finally tombola and refreshments.

12 Maidstone East November 2015 Business Focus downsmail.co.uk MAIDSTONE’S PREMIER OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC- “SAY GOODBYE TO PAIN” Do you want a better way to deal with your A large majority of our patients come to us achy muscles and joints? Trust me. Having through personal recommendation from been a professional footballer for over 10 years, friends and family. In fact, everyone is so I know exactly what it's like to have injuries, pleased with our services that we are certain we and how painful they can be. I was lucky can meet and even exceed your expectations, enough to receive the finest possible treatment as well as offering a first class approach to pain available at the time. This is also why I decided as we manage you to recovery. to qualify as a registered Osteopath. We provide treatment for a wide range of In recent times, I have suffered serious back injuries including back pain, joint pain pain with associated pain radiating into the (including hip and knee pain), sciatica, neck back of my leg. It was awful. Having moved ache and sports injuries to name a few. Our from the world of sport, I began to learn that all patients come from varied backgrounds, which sorts of people can suffer from severe neck and include office workers, pregnant ladies, the back pain. I understand the impact that pain more mature patient, sports amateurs and Scott Daniels has on someone and what effect osteopathic professionals and many self-employed, who treatment can have on a patient’s life which is know full well that good health leads to better Osteopathic and why I want to help those in need. living. Sports Injury Clinic To aide anyone in pain, our clinic's We are committed to transforming the philosophy, is to ensure quick appointment quality of life for people who suffer from pain; times (within 24-48 hours of initial contact) and we're absolutely dedicated to patient-centred Amelanchier, the highest quality Osteopathic care and care. The setting of your visit will be mindful Weavering Street, treatment. and unhurried. You will have ample time to get At all times, patients will be made aware of to know us. From there, we will take the Maidstone, ME14 5JJ the details of the treatment they receive and necessary steps to address your concerns, (Near Tesco at Grove Green) all treatment will be part of a management establish a diagnosis, and provide the correct plan. We aim to provide quick, comprehensive treatment. Regardless of the problem, our Telephone: 01622 631401 treatment leading to fast effective pain relief. patients typically notice significant Email: [email protected] You'll be glad that you gave this a try. improvements within a very short time frame

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Maidstone East November 2015 13 News downsmail.co.uk Work order for serial thief Stones’ turnover up as A HABITUAL thief was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work after being sentenced at Mid Kent Magistrates Court. they look to expand Aaron Jones (19) from Square Hill Road, Maidstone, admitted seven TURNOVER at Maidstone United counts of theft from a vehicle and a FC during their third season back count of fraud by false representa- in the county town was up, tion. although profits were slightly He stole a satnav system from a down. vehicle in Brogden Crescent, Maid- Maidstone United Holdings Ltd, stone and items worth £800 from a which groups together all of the vehicle in Green Lane, Boughton club’s business activities, reported a Monchelsea. He stole a saw and ash- turnover of £1.36m – up from tray worth £150 from a vehicle in £1.26m in the previous period. Wykeham Grove, Leeds, and a dash Gross profit ignoring tax, interest moving to the Gallagher Stadium in companies to come on board to- cam, a hands-free kit and an MP3 and amortisation was £245,000, James Whatman Way, with its cen- gether with our existing business player worth £175 from a vehicle in slightly down on the £289,000 trepiece a new third-generation ar- partners.” the same road. In Grasslands, Lang- achieved in the previous period. tifical pitch. The need to keep expanding the ley, he stole a wallet, CDs, a drill and More than 1,000 season tickets Club co-owner Oliver Ash said: stadium to comply with league re- a satnav worth £280 from a vehicle were sold last season and atten- “We are pleased with the results of quirements is likely to be an on- and items including CDs and keys, dances for league matches went up a satnav, and cash from two others. our third season's trading. We will going challenge as they seek to fulfil more than 10% on the previous continue to be prudent to ensure their medium-term ambition to re- He then spent £18.14 at a restaurant year, but the increased turnover in Maidstone on a stolen card. the club is secure and sustainable. turn to the Football League, accord- was mainly due to additional in- We see in these figures further evi- ing to fellow co-owner Terry Casey, He was ordered to carry out 200 come from the FA Cup run, which hours of unpaid work, pay £562 dence of the success of the 3G who said: “We are very fortunate to included two televised matches. model in building an attractive foot- have a growing supporter base, compensation, a £180 courts charge, Player wages were higher last £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge. ball and social facility, which is ap- with plenty of enthusiastic young- season, as the club sought promo- preciated by thousands of local sters, who feel a real attachment to tion to the National League South, people. their club.” Elves needed knowing this could bring signifi- “We now need to build up cash All spare cashflow from profits SANTA arrives at The Mall on Sat- cant grants for stadium improve- resources even faster if we are to de- and reserves has been reinvested in urday, November 21 but he has a ments. velop the stadium further. It will be the extension project, which has shortage of elves. Send applications In 2012 the club ended an 11-year a hugely expensive project. In par- achieved the 3,000 capacity neces- (with CV) to [email protected]. spell outside the county town by ticular we now need more local sary should the club gain promotion.

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Maidstone East November 2015 15 News downsmail.co.uk MP backs bale to keep surgery A PUBLIC consultation is to be carried out into the future of the Downswood doctor’s surgery after angry residents enlisted the help of their MP. Patients of the Spires Medical Centre in Chiltern Close claim they Cllr Gary Area popular have been unable to get appoint- Cooke, MP ments there for months, being di- Helen Whately verted to neighbouring practices in with families and Cllr Roz Shepway and Grove Green. COUNCILLOR Gordon Newton said Elderly patients and parents with Cheesman at Downswood – a former quarry – prams and toddlers have been in- the meeting at was an example of one of the best convenienced the most, with a St Nicholas’ brownfield developments ever. round trip of more than three hours, Church in He said that, because of its facil- involving two bus journeys each Otham ities and amenities and proximity way, a meeting at St Nicholas’ to both countryside and town, it as place about the future of the centre. “This is a systematic plan that has Church, Otham, heard. particularly attractive to young Dr Singh has since told the Downs gone through without any consulta- Doing the trip by taxi costs £15. families or people looking to down- Mail he expects a public consultation whatsoever.” Mid Kent and Faversham MP size. tion would start shortly. Mrs Whately said she would take Helen Whately was invited to meet He said: “It has a very good pre- The meeting at Otham Church the points raised back to the NHS patients, who told how services had school and this potential closure is heard that Dr Singh had earlier told and discuss the possible alternatives been wound down and were now a really serious problem for moth- unavailable. They said the surgery NHS England that the Spires was with them. She said: “The services ers who are carrying children was being used as a storage facility “not fit for purpose” and “would they have commissioned are clearly around and who do not have ac- for furniture and equipment from not pass a CQC inspection”. not being delivered.” cess to a car. the sister practice at Shepway, Cllr Gary Cooke told the meeting: A spokesman for NHS England “Dr Singh has done his patients a which is undergoing a £250,000 re- “We need to convey a very clear said: “Downswood surgery is not real dis-service. He has deprived furbishment and building exten- message to the NHS that the resi- closed. The practice is unable to pro- young mums and elderly people of sion. dents want to keep their surgery vide clinical services at present from a valuable service.” GP Dr Kulvinder Singh admitted here and if Dr Singh does not want this site and patients are being di- to the Downs Mail that the centre to do it, we need to find someone rected to Shepway Medical Centre.” More patients had been used for storage while who can.” The patients’ meeting was called THE surgery was built 30 years ago, work was taking place at Shepway For months, residents had been at short notice and Dr Singh was un- as part of the Downswood devel- but he expected this to be completed told there were “no appointments able to attend. Another meeting is opment, to serve the local commu- within a few weeks. available” at the Spires. But parish due to take place between council- nity. However, he could not confirm council chairman Cllr Roz lors and NHS England in Novem- The meeting heard that with whether the Spires would re-open. Cheesman discovered that a GP was ber. more than 3,200 new homes He said: “That decision is out of actually only present for two to six A spokesman for the surgery said: planned for the area, its services our hands. We are quite happy to appointments a week – and on some “The Medical Centre Group operate would be even more in demand. provide a service with the best pos- weeks, none at all. services across three sites; Grove sible quality of care, whether that be Shen said: “We did not realise for Green, Shepway and Downswood. during the week, so it seemed a log- at place A, B, C, but someone needs a long time what was going on. “The Shepway site is currently ical way to accommodate our needs to provide the resources.” Some patients have already moved undergoing major refurbishment and request that patients attend ei- Mrs Whately said: “NHS England practices because of the lack of serv- and it has become necessary to re-lo- ther the nearby Grove Green or is very unhappy about what this ice and now the surgery argues that cate the administrative staff from Shepway branches for their consul- practice is doing.” She said NHS it is being under-used. That is be- Shepway to Downswood. tations. South East, which commissioned cause nobody can get an appoint- “Prior to this, Downswood was “We sincerely apologise for the the GP service, was unaware that a ment.” under-utilised with only a very disruption and inconvenience public consultation had not taken Ward Cllr Gordon Newton said: small number of patients attending caused to patients at Downswood.” Golf success Biggins is guest at park ceremony THE Tudor Park Hotel at Bearsted LARGER-than-life TV personality is celebrating one of its best seasons Christopher Biggins has opened the of competitive golf. final stage of the £1.2m make-over at The Marriott Hotel and Country Cobtree Manor Park. Club has chalked up a host of golf- Saying he was pleased to be away ing victories this summer, the latest from London, he described the park as coming when the Tudor Park Mail “a fantastic community facility”, and on Sunday team won their quarter- a fitting tribute to the park’s former final match. They now go on to the owner, Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake. semi-finals in Spain in November. “It was his wish that this should be The Tudor Park East Kent used for the benefit of the people of Evening League team were Maidstone, and that dream has be- crowned league champions by half come a reality,” he said. a point over Boughton Golf Club. He paid tribute to the 12-times Tudor Park also became division mayor, saying he had done more for 1 champions following a 5-0 home the community than any other Maid- victory over Hempstead Forest in stone person. September. This win won the team He thanked the trust for overseeing promotion back to the Invicta Pre- the transformation of the park and its mier League. £300,000 donation for the cafe. Christopher Biggins (centre), incoming chairman of Cobtree Manor Trust The William Hunt Trilby Tour For details see the Borough Update Roger Hext (left), and Maidstone mayor Daniel Moriarty meet some of the Championship of Kent, held at the hotel, can be seen on Sky Sports 4 section in the centre of this paper. youngsters using the play area at the park on Monday, November 23.

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Maidstone East November 2015 17 News downsmail.co.uk Concern over plan to close home THE future provision of respite care for the elderly in Maidstone could be in jeopardy after a proposal to close a care home deemed “not fit for purpose”. KCC wants to hear the views of Paul Coles (pictured), chief execu- services. It is one of four similar “We are confident that there is suf- residents about its plan to close the tive of Age UK Maidstone, said: “We properties under the spotlight in the ficient alternative accommodation in Dorothy Lucy Centre in Northum- are obviously concerned about the consultation and KCC says it is the Maidstone and Faversham areas berland Road, Shepway, along with provision of services for the elderly working with providers and other for the residents of the Dorothy Lucy another home in Faversham. The in the borough but our major con- stakeholders to develop alternative Centre and Kiln Court. money saved would be ploughed cern is for the fu- services, which would offer flexible, “Respite care is critical and will back into improving care for service- ture of respite quality care and independence to continue to be offered. This will be users in their own homes. provision in the older people. either through the provision of KCC says there is just one perma- town. Graham Gibbens, KCC cabinet respite care beds or day care, which nent resident at the Dorothy Lucy “While improv- member for adult social care and is a form of respite care. Centre at present and that the home ing services at public health, said: “We propose to “During the consultation period is not fit-for-purpose in the long- home is laudable, close two of our homes because they we will be determining the viability term. this does not give are under-used and the buildings of block-booking beds in care homes However, the centre offers respite respite to families cannot provide quality care without for respite, and alternative provision care for dozens of families across the and carers facing significant investment. of day care and talking to our town – leaving a question mark over round-the-clock care for their de- “The buildings were not designed providers. Any provision can only the future of this valuable service. pendants.” to meet the current and future needs be secured for the Dorothy Lucy It also provides two day centres – The Dorothy Lucy Centre is a 28- of older people who continue to Centre replacement after the deci- for people with dementia and those bed unit built in 1985 for general present with complex needs requir- sion has been taken regarding the fu- with high-end needs. frailty and dementia respite and day ing more specialist modern facilities. ture of the service.” Moves to solve bed-blocking Celebrate the best in borough Continued from page one THE people of Maidstone are invited circumstances. A trust spokesman said: “We are to nominate their good neighbours, Star innovator – a company, confident of seeing further im- friends and colleagues with the re- group or individual who has inno- provements that benefit patients at turn of Celebrate Maidstone. vated within the town, bringing a all stages of their care. The popular community initiative, new direction, idea or experience “Delayed transfers of care have to celebrate the town’s unsung he- with an impact for years to come risen steadily over the last six roes, is seeking nominations for its (vote open to elected councillors). months. It is important for our pa- Star of Maidstone awards, with the taken time to improve others Organiser Neil Pattison said: “This tients’ future well-being that they winners attending a gala event in (sports, performing arts or busi- will be our fourth award ceremony are able to leave hospital when they March 2016. ness); and we’re looking forward to meet- are medically fit and safe to do so. This year, new nomination cate- Star community – outstanding ing and celebrating more of the peo- “We have met with Kent County gories include: contribution to your local Maid- ple who make our town a better Council and welcome their latest Star visitor experience – out- stone community; place to live.” and on-going efforts to rapidly standing place to visit in Maidstone; Star business contribution –a Online nominations are being meet any social care needs patients Star customer experience – business or person contributing to taken until January 11, 2016. If you may have when they leave our hos- leaving you with a special con- Maidstone's health and wealth; know someone who deserves an pitals. sumer experience (retail, Star lionheart – 15-year-old, or award, go to www.celebratemaid- “We will not now as a conse- restaurant, leisure); under, who has changed or stone.org.uk. Tickets for the gala quence of these positive on-going Star mentor – someone who has effected change, despite adverse evening, priced £35, are also on sale. moves be seeking reimbursement to support the on-going care needs of patients while they are in hospital waiting for different social care packages to be put in place.” Rogue traders target vulnerable A spokesman for KCC said: “In light of the pressures experienced in POLICE are urging homeowners in carried out, but settled on £600. carried out it is best to obtain a quote Maidstone we have been able to Maidstone to be on their guard and A roofing expert later confirmed or get a second quote from a recog- progress an additional service to to keep a watchful eye out for vul- there was no problem with the nised firm. support people in their own home. nerable neighbours after rogue house or its roof. Sgt Stevens added: “Above all, do This is in the form of a recuperative traders tried to charge an elderly Sergeant Tristan Stevens said: not pay anyone for work before it is home care service. We will continue couple £28,000 for work to their roof. “Most people who call at our homes carried out, and certainly never go to to work with our health colleagues Officers are investigating the inci- will be genuine, but sometimes they the bank to draw out cash if a lift is to meet the needs of patients when dent after a report that the Shepway turn up unannounced and try to ei- offered by the people who knock on they are ready to leave hospital.” couple had accepted an offer from ther trick their way inside to steal the door. three men to clear their gutters for valuables and money, or offer serv- “Remember that traders must give £10. But after starting the work, they ices or goods that are nowhere near you written notice of your right to Winter market informed the couple there was a acceptable. seven days’ cancellation when LENHAM’S medieval tithe barn is problem with the roof that would “Rogue traders prey on the elderly agreeing to do work at your home, to host its fourth Mid Winter Mar- cost £1,000 to fix. and vulnerable so I would encour- including work gained from a cold ket on November 21 and 22. The couple paid £200 upfront for age everyone to be good neighbours call.” The event will showcase the work materials, but when the men re- and keep an eye on anyone you be- Sign up to the Trading Standards of 60 artisans, most of whom are turned the next day they warned lieve may be at risk.” email alert system at based in Kent. There will also be that the roof was on the verge of col- Anyone in doubt about the cre- www.kent.gov.uk to receive up- food producers selling meat, lapse and would cost £28,000 to re- dentials of a caller should contact dates on the latest scams. cheese, honey, conserves, wine, place. When the traders’ request for Trading Standards with the vehicle Call the Citizens Advice con- chocolate, fudge, nuts and much a £5,000 deposit was refused, one of details, company name, contact de- sumer service on 03454 040506 to more. The event supports the char- the men is reported to have details and any other information. report problems involving sus- ity Art for Life. manded £1,000 for the work already Before allowing any work to be pected rogue traders.

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Maidstone East November 2015 19 COMMENDED

News downsmail.co.uk Traﬃc fears as park and ride axed FEARS of a traffic influx on to Maidstone’s already-overstretched roads have been expressed following news the town is to lose one of its park and ride facilities. Maidstone’s planning and trans- But the council already sub- Through New Cut? Up London the model is unviable.” portation committee agreed it had sidises the park and ride by more Road? I have serious concerns The committee agreed to seek a no choice but to close the Sitting- than £554,000 a year and the price about this.” three-month extension to the lease bourne Road park and ride car hike would add to this burden, Committee chairman Cllr David with Gallagher, from November to park in February next year, as a re- members heard. Burton said current usage meant February 2016, which would give sult of rising costs and poor uptake. Cllr Ian Chittenden said he was council tax payers were heavily the council time to tell customers But the closure could force more sad at the decision, but agreed it subsidising each park and ride about the changes and provide mo- than 300 vehicles a day on to was the only option. user. torists with alternative travel and nearby roads, as drivers seek alter- He said: “Over the years we have He said: “This has come about parking information. native places to park. had the opportunity to look at and not through want of trying. We The council has already agreed to Landowner Gallagher Properties negotiate something in the area have put on more modern buses look at providing additional bus Ltd wants to increase the lease fee and we have missed that opportu- but usage continues to decline.” services on the radial routes into of the site at Eclipse Park, off M20 nity. There is no alternative but to Cllr Clive English said: “Park and town, particularly in the north Junction 7, to reflect the location of support the closure – but I don’t ride in Maidstone is broken. Unless (Newnham Court area) and from the site and its proximity to the mo- like it. Where are all the vehicles we have significantly larger sites the south (Sutton Road and Loose torway. going to go? Through town? and an increased revenue stream, Road). Care home must improve Castle blooms during festival A CARE home for those with learn- LEEDS Castle was the setting for ing difficulties in Walderslade has thousands of blooms at this year’s been told it needs to improve its Festival of Flowers. service in several areas. An incredible 12,000 people at- An unannounced visit to MCCH tended the six-day extravaganza, Society Ltd’s nursing home in with displays from acclaimed Lower Robin Hood Lane by the in- arrangers such as Heidi Lawley, from spectors from the Care Quality West Malling Flowers, Caroline Commission found there was not Miller, from Hadlow College and always sufficient staff deployed at Headcorn’s Hazel Brickles featuring busy times to meet the needs of its alongside the work of the castle’s five residents, especially at meal own ﬂoristry team and Chelsea times. Flower Show award winners. The inspector noted that staff had The preview was opened by TV learned to communicate effectively gardener Diarmuid Gavin, who with people in non-verbal ways named Holland’s Dennis Kneepkens’ and to interpret their expressions gold tipped lilies as the rose bowl winner. Next year’s event is on Sep- and behaviour to gauge their mood tember 17-25. Rose bowl winner Dennis Kneepkens with TV gardener Diarmuid Gavin and needs, but those with complex support needs were not actively en- gaged with making choices about meals. Pre-school’s The inspector also said staff were not always considerate and re- spectful when speaking about peo- care ‘good’ Guiders, ple. A PRE-SCHOOL at Harrietsham helpers and The CQC has offered advice after has been rated good by Ofsted. rating the home as requiring im- Rainbows Staff at the pre-school in West provement in terms of safety, lead- mark the Street, which was previously rated ership, caring and effectiveness. unit’s 10th outstanding, were said to have an The report added that staff re- anniversary excellent partnership with parents cruitment procedures followed rec- with a and exchanged information about ommended good practice, photocall the children’s learning and care. residents felt safe and received The environment was said to be medication safely and when friendly and well-resourced, and needed, and its response to chang- Rainbows celebrate birthday children had easy access to a wide ing needs was good. YOUNGSTERS enjoyed a party to celebrate the 10th birthday of range of toys that supported learn- Vinters Rainbow unit. ing and independence. Autumn concert On arrival, the Rainbows made their own party hats and played Children settled quickly and had party games. They then tried to identify Guiders from the black and secure emotional attachments to BEARSTED Choral Society will white photographs of them as children. The party ended with food their key person. They were well present Bizet’s Carmen at St John’s and a birthday cake. Each Rainbow took home a celebration badge. supervised and supported. Primary School in Provender Way, 1st Vinters Rainbows has 23 Rainbows aged between five and The inspector noted that staff Grove Green on November 14. seven. The three Guiders are helped by two Guides and a senior could make better use of occasions The performance, directed by section member, all of whom were Rainbows at the unit, and four such as snack time and water play Andrew Lowen, will start at other helpers. to strengthen children’s under- 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 (£5 for stu- Three of the original Guiders are still there – unit leader Jacquie standing of mathematical concepts. dents) from 01634 666730 or email Beadle and assistant Guiders Donella McGill and Stella Simmons. The manager had a comprehen- [email protected]. They Another founding leader of the unit, Margaret Brook, returned for sive set of policies, but when mon- will also be available at the door on the party. itoring staff practice could ensure the night. that teaching was more focused.

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Maidstone East November 2015 23 News | Sponsored parish council downsmail.co.uk Neighbourhood plan to protect your community BEARSTED Parish Council is preparing a neighbourhood plan. Neighbourhood plans were in- should be protected. The consultation began on Octo- troduced by the Localism Act 2012 As the first stage in the process ber 16 and comments must be sub- and are a way of helping local com- Bearsted Parish Council has ap- mitted by 5pm on Friday munities influence the planning of plied to Maidstone Council to des- November 17. Donations the area in which they live by de- ignate a “neighbourhood area”. There are no detailed plans at the THE parish council has agreed to veloping a shared vision for land This is the area that the parish moment since these will be the sub- donate £100 towards the cost of the development. council wants the plan to cover. ject of consultation and discussion annual Christmas lunch for the vil- The parish council plans to form The application which includes a with parishioners during the com- lage elderly. a working group, comprising map of the proposed neighbouring months. It also agreed, in line with last members and residents, who hood area can be viewed at In the meantime, comments on year, to donate up to £500 towards would like an input into the plan. www.maidstone.gov.uk/resi- the application to prepare the plan the cost of hosting the Bearsted and A neighbourhood plan can cover dents/planning/local-plan/neigh- should be sent to the Spatial Policy Thurnham Fayre Presentation a range of planning issues that are bourhood-plans2, on theparish Team, Maidstone Borough Council, Evening, held as a thank you to the locally important, for example the council website, www.bearsted- Maidstone House, King Street, volunteers, participants and sup- community facilities that are parishcouncil.gov.uk, and on vil- Maidstone, ME15 6JQ - Neighbour- porters of the fayre. needed and the green spaces that lage notice boards. [email protected]. Bearsted Parish Council is keen to recognise the huge amount of time which has been given to support this well-established event. Councillors smarten up cottages The parish council will be review- ing requests for donations in Febru- A GROUP of parish councillors rolled ary, so any requests should be made up their sleeves and got stuck in to in writing to the clerk before then. cleaning up the rear of Smarts Cot- The donation should benefit people tages, on Bearsted Green. of the parish. The working party (pictured) spent a Sunday morning clearing the path of weeds and removing an accumula- Green events tion of leaves, leaving the path spick THE council is to look at revising its and span for residents and local peo- policy for use of the Green. ple. While the parish is fully in support The parish council has also at- of charity events on the Green, it tended to the parking bay at the front needs to ensure events are ade- of Madginford shops, which was the quately insured and covered from a subject of a complaint from resident legal perspective. Terence Turner. Individuals and organisations are Mr Turner complained to the parish at Madginford shops is now with asked to give the parish council as council last month about the dirty Maidstone’s planning surveying de- much notice as possible should they state of the pavement and parking partment. wish to hold an event on the Green. bay and, although Maidstone Council There is good news also for resi- had said it would “try to keep it clean”, dents in Merton Road. The borough it claimed it was difﬁcult to sweep be- council has accepted responsibility for New website cause of the cars which are constantly cutting the grass verge next to No 1 A NEW parish council website parked there. and it will now be maintained by the should be ready within a few weeks. The issue of the dilapidated fascias council every two months. The website will include agendas and minutes of the council and its committee’s meetings, as well as an events calendar and, eventually, an Pollarded willows ‘may look a bit bald’ online newsletter. THE willow trees overhanging the They may look a bit bald for a from the pond which is mains The website will be more inclusive pond on Bearsted Green are to be few months but should be back to water-fed. The root system will be and interactive, linking with social given a haircut. their former glory before too long. vast. media such as Facebook and Twitter. The parish council has already Pollarding is used to keep trees to There are water, gas and electric pruned some trees on the Ashford an aesthetically pleasing size. The services in the vicinity, not forget- CCTV plan Road and the size of the willows, height of both trees is becoming a ting the retaining wall between the which drop leaves into the pond, concern and they are known to road and the pond. The cost of re- A MOBILE CCTV camera could be has been a cause of concern. snap , especially in high winds. pairing any of this through root brought in to monitor activity in the Consequently the trees are to be The spread of the larger one is damage would be immense and Church Landway car park. “pollarded” to control their size causing the pond some degree of call for the trees to be removed. There have been further com- and extend their life. All required die-off. The leaves when shed are If they are pollarded and regu- plaints of anti-social activity, so the permissions have been obtained falling into the water and making larly managed, the root spread is council has agreed to discuss what and qualified practitioners will the water acidic, the trees them- reduced and the life of the trees can can be done with the PCSO. carry out the work. selves drink vast amounts of water be extended significantly.

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

24 Maidstone East November 2015 Business Focus downsmail.co.uk The ESO Clinic - Kent’s Largest Osteopathic Practice

The European School Osteopathic Council about regulation of the Patients attending of Osteopathy (ESO) (GOsC), who regulate profession is available the teaching and post operates a fully the profession. RQ on the GOsC website graduate clinics benefit ESO regulated healthcare status means the www.osteopathy.org.uk. from a full consultation teaching and post academic and clinical and appraisal of their Clinic The ESO Clinic, based presenting problem; graduate clinic, teaching services on Tonbridge Road, offering osteopathy for operate according to a staff and osteopathic has been providing low students alike focus on Offering a full range of osteopathic patients in and around defined set of cost osteopathic treatments, with specialist clinics for: Maidstone. The standards and all ESO providing the highest treatments to the quality patient oriented osteopathic tutors and osteopathic Maidstone community care for people suffering programme at the ESO staff are fully • Maternity since 1978; on average, with a wide range of has ‘RQ’ Status from registered with the 20,000 treatments are problems and • Children the General GOsC. Information provided each year. conditions. We aim to • Sports get patients to help themselves as well as • MSK Diagnostic Ultrasound working alongside other healthcare NEW: Postgraduate Visceral Clinic professions where necessary to ensure To book call 01622 685989 or for more patients receive the information visit www.eso.ac.uk/clinic right approach for them as an individual. Please call 01622 685989 to discuss whether osteopathy can help and visit our facebook page ‘ESOClinic’ for regular updates about the Clinic, osteopathy and how it can help you.

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Maidstone East November 2015 25 News downsmail.co.uk Family centres show improvement MAIDSTONE’S children’s centres have received a pat on the back from Government inspectors after responding to calls to clean up their act. Ofsted inspectors deemed the tive impact on families who used the for improvement if the centres munity served by the centres and town cluster of six centres inade- centres and there were highly effec- wanted to be rated outstanding. about 11% of the families are from quate at an inspection in June last tive working arrangements with The inspectors visited three stay- minority ethnic backgrounds. year, but say a raft of improvements other services and organisations, and-play sessions, including one at Parts of Tovil and Park Wood, now justify them being re-classified meaning families received profes- Maidstone Barracks, the young par- served by the Sunshine and as good. sional help quickly. ents’ group, a community café, a Meadow children’s centres, are Five inspectors looked at the six The Ofsted report said: “Centre childminding group, adult learning deemed to be among the most dis- children’s centres – East Borough, leaders and staff are highly moti- sessions, clinics and a Baby Bump- advantaged areas of the country. Greenfields, Howard de Walden, vated and dedicated to their role. kins session at The Meadows Centre. Targeted work in the Park Wood Sunshine, The Meadow and West They praise the new management The centres’ priorities are children area had doubled the numbers of Borough – over four days. structure and take full responsibility and families living in less affluent families accessing services. They found significant progress for the quality of their work.” areas, teenage and young parents, The report said: “Centre staff have had been made to improve the qual- Although there had been an in- children known to be supported by worked tirelessly to promote the ity and range of services provided crease in the range of training social care and military families. centres’ services across the area. As for families. courses provided for parents, in- There are 8,391 children aged a result, the centres are now re- Services had a consistently posi- spectors found there was still room under five years living in the com- garded as hubs of the community.” School house Credit union’s £2m loan milestone blaze inquiry LENDING by Kent Savers Credit – has seen a number of church and fits with small incomes requiring Union, which has its base in Maid- community-based branches created. small sums for a short period find it POLICE investigating a fire at a stone, passed the £2million mark in Martin Kingman (pictured), chair- hard to access borrowing. Kent derelict building in Maidstone are September. man of Kent Savers have a range of loans and appealing for information. Loans of nearly £74,000 were is- Savers Credit works with its members to help The blaze, at the former school sued in the month, from a loan for Union, said: "In them save and break the cycle of house in Brewer Street, is believed vehicle repairs to several for debt the past year debt." to have started between 1pm and consolidation. Other popular rea- there has been a As well as helping those strug- 2.30pm on Saturday, September 26 sons included home improvement, kick back gling to pay debts, the credit union and is being treated as suspicious. furnishings, holidays and cars. against the very relies on savers and those with good Officers have been carrying out Nearly 1,500 loans have been is- high interest credit histories to offset the higher house-to-house enquiries, speak- sued by the organisation that was rates charged risk it takes in helping those less ing to local businesses and investi- launched in 2010 to provide a by pay-day well off. gating possible CCTV evidence. cheaper, safer option for those with lenders and Mr Kingman said: “Our main Maidstone district commander poor credit histories facing loan some banks and credit card compa- aims are to promote saving and pro- Chief Inspector Mick Gardner said: sharks and pay-day lenders. nies. Also, banks are being more se- vide our members with loans at rea- “This was a fire believed to have Kent Savers Credit Union – a part- lective when agreeing loans and sonable rates, so that they feel in been started deliberately in a built- nership with the Church of England many people such as those on bene- control of their own money.” up area of the town, with thousands of pounds’ worth of damage caused. Fortunately our partners at Kent Fire and Rescue Service were Singer guest at lunch Churches able to put the blaze out before it SPANDAU Ballet frontman Tony Hadley helped to raise £14,000 for chil- spread.” Anyone with information dren’s charity Action Medical Research at a ladies’ lunch in Maidstone. need friends can contact 01622 604100 or email The singer (pictured) has been a supporter of Action Medical Research THE Leeds and Broomfield west.division.media.appeals@kent. since he took part in the charity’s trek to Peru in 2003. churches are looking for more pnn.police.uk quoting reference The Tony Hadley Ladies’ Lunch, friends. YY/019335/15. supported by Next, took place at The Friends of Leeds and In a separate incident, Adam the Mercure Maidstone Great Broomfield Churches is a regis- Stajer (21), of Lower Stone Street, Danes Hotel, where 200 guests entered charity which has raised denied deliberately starting a fire at joyed a drinks reception and the more than £66,000 to help main- The Works bookshop in Week chance to have their photos taken tain and support the churches Street, Maidstone in June. with the 80s heartthrob before a over the years. The Slovak pleaded not guilty to two-course meal and live perform- Membership is £1 a month arson with intent to endanger life ance. and subscriptions are crucial to and an alternative charge of arson Paula Ray, Action Medical Re- ensure the future of the build- being reckless as to whether life search’s community fundraising ings. was endangered. A trial date has manager for the region, said: “It A spokesperson for the been set for November 30. was a fantastic afternoon and friends said most people, even we’re grateful to Tony for showing if they were not churchgoers, Hall solar plan the ladies such a good time and to would be sad to see their village the new committee who helped church fall into disrepair. They HARRIETSHAM Village Hall is make the lunch such a success.” liked to use it for weddings, appealing for votes after being Action Medical Research has baptisms and funerals and en- shortlisted for a M&S community played a signiﬁcant role in many joyed community events. energy fund award for solar roof medical breakthroughs since it The friends have helped with panels. began in 1952, from the development of the ﬁrst UK polio vaccines to the the repair of the Leeds Church The hall is one of several projects use of ultrasound in pregnancy. clock, the Lady Chapel floor nominated and the one with the Paula said: “I’d like to thank everyone who came along and enjoyed the and repair to the roof joists, as most votes will win the funding. party, as well as all the local businesses who donated some brilliant prizes.” well as a host of other projects. To vote for the Harrietsham proj- If you’d like to volunteer to support Action Medical Research, please con- More details can be found on ect, go to www.mandsenergy- tact Paula Ray on 07901 712510 or email [email protected] www.friendslbc.org.uk fund.com/project/27171.

26 Maidstone East November 2015 Good food at its best

With autumn now in the air make sure you find the time to enjoy the atmosphere and warm welcome at your local eateries. Get out and about and savour some of the great seasonal produce Come & Try being served by your local pubs, hotels and restaurants. Maidstone’s Best New Restaurant The Gem of Kent proudly boasts Visitors can be assured of a itself as Maidstone’s only Turkish friendly greeting by the and Kurdish Restaurant and it is Cavendish team. The tearoom Come & celebrate our certainly worth shouting about. boast a delicious menu, lower The restaurant offers outstanding prices and special offers. All the dishes from both cultures created favourites are served including 1st CHRISTMAS using the finest quality sandwiches, paninis, salads, ingredients. jacket potatoes and warming with us from 1st December In addition to the extensive a la soups. There is a delicious range carte menu there is a set lunch of homemade cakes, including a and dinner menu, which means gluten free selection – all of which BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN that choosing and dining has are baked on the premises. As the FOR CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY never been easier - offering you a festive season approaches orders fantastic choice of new tastes and are now being taken for bespoke & NEW YEARS EVE classics. Christmas cakes and delicious The warm, friendly atmosphere meringue mince pies. So if you are and the courteous team, along planning a big celebration this CHOOSE FROM A SELECION OF festive season be sure to place with the exceptional food, make it your order soon. The Cavendish SET MENU’S TO SUIT YOUR PARTY the ideal venue for this years team also offer an outside catering Christmas celebration. service, celebration cakes made to Cavendish Tea Rooms in order all year round. Pop in and Set Menu A Set Menu B Bearsted certainly offers a warm see for yourself – you’ll be sure of 6 Cold Mezze 6 Cold Mezze + 2 Hot welcome on a chilly autumn day. a warm welcome. + 6 Hot Mezze Mezze to share to share (Falafel & Borek) Cavendish Tea Rooms +1 dessert pp + 1 Main course pp A great place to relax Prices from +1 dessert pp & meet friends this Christmas season £15.95 - £19.95 Prices from £19.95 - £21.95 Enjoy breakfast or lunch with friends in our stylish relaxed & friendly tearoom. Festive afternoon teas Set Menu C £14.50 per head* All from SET MENU B + Unlimited still & sparkling water & soft drinks Bespoke Christmas cakes available + House wine & house beer for 21/ hours to order 8' & 10' rich fruit brandy 2 cake (Order by 15th November). Prices from Boxes of meringue mince pies available to order (minimum 6). £32.95 - £39.95 Now serving a selection of Christmas coﬀee’s and mince pies. AS A THANK YOU TO THE PARTY ORGANISER, BOOK TODAY AND Stuck for a gift? RECEIVE A £20 GIFT VOUCHER Treat someone special to an afternoon tea gift voucher. To visit us anytime in January 2016 Vouchers from £5 the ideal teacher gift! Don’t leave it too late... Find us at treat the one you love this Christmas 8 Cavendish Way, Bearsted (Just oﬀ the A20) Customer parking to rear 01622 675000 62-63 High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1SR 01622 737114 www.gemofkent.co.uk *(24 hours’ notice required for afternoon tea service) Email:[email protected]

Maidstone East November 2015 27 The Good food at Chequers Fish Bar The Square, Lenham, Maidstone its best Fish Bar – Restaurant

Chequers Fish Bar in Lenham is a Takeaway customers can enjoy a Eat in or take away family run business that prides 10% discount if ordering online. Traditional Fish & Chips itself on using only the best The restaurant and takeaway can quality ingredients - fish from be found at The Rose pub on the • Pies • Southern Fried Chicken • Kebabs Grimsby Fish Market and Ashford Road in Bearsted. potatoes sourced from local • Burgers • Kids Meals • Savouries • Sauces Frank’s - Mussel bar is a family suppliers. All the food is freshly •Drinks • Soft Ice Cream affair. Exposed beamed ceilings fried in pure vegetable oil. On and a large open fireplace Fridays the fish bar now serves Now available on Fridays accentuate the restaurant’s cosy salmon, which is available grilled Fresh Salmon served grilled or battered feel. or fried along with all the usual A willing band of friendly, favourites. Breakfast & fresh ground coffee attentive and knowledgeable staff A great way to warm up on a members are on hand to explain served from 8am. chilly Autumn day. Frank’s undoubted specialism: The Delhi Spice Indian restaurant mussels, with 25 different recipes Opening Times offers a great selection of covering everything from Thai Monday - Friday traditional Indian food which is through to Italian, Indian and freshly made using organic meat European. Whether you want 8am-2.30pm • 4pm - 10.30pm and chicken and the finest colour your mussles marinated in Saturday - 8am - 10.30pm and preservative free ingredients. something mild or with a kick – Sunday - 11am - 9pm Check out the Sheek Kebab starter Belgium Congo comes with – delicious barbecued ground plenty of chilli – all tastes are lamb rolls in masala spice catered for. FREE PARKING marinade and seasoned with There is much more to Frank’s coriander. For a main course try than just mussels. A Tel: 01622 859878 one of the special seafood sizzlers. comprehensive menu contains an delhispice Frank’s Fine dining Indian Restaurant Restaurant & Mussel Bar serving traditional Indian food Steak Every Night! Menu selected from various regions from all over the Indian sub continent, with PROBABLY THE BEST specialist Indian spices, and 100% free ON YOUR DOORSTEP! from all artificial colourings and flavourings. Very popular traditional bar, serving fine wines, real ales and an extensive range of teas and coffees The Rose, 87 Ashford Road, Bearsted EVERY NIGHT IS MUSSEL NIGHT! Tel: 01622 734747 / 738200 Monday - Mussel Specials Tuesday Mussel Night www.rose-inn.co.uk Wednesday Mussel Night Thursday - Mussel Specials Discount on tables Friday Mussel Night 15% throughout November* • Belgian Beers • *Monday - Wednesday - minimum spend £15 53-55 High Street, West Malling ME19 6QH On presentation of this advertisement. Valid until 30.11.2015 Tel: 01732 843247 Terms & conditions apply www.franksrestaurantandmusselbar.com

28 Maidstone East November 2015 A traditional country Good food at pub offering great food, an open log fire and a its best KA truly warm welcome THE KINGS ARMS Full selection of real ales Bar and Restaurant Open all day for food - 7 days a week array of other dishes, including customers back time after time – All food is homemade succulent steaks of all persuasion, the great atmosphere in this and cooked to order from plenty of vegetarian options and traditional Kentish pub. a wide range of fish dishes. locally supplied produce For special occasions look no If it’s a delicious meal in front of a Large beer garden further than lobster, which has a cosy log fire then The Kings Arms at Boxley is definitely the Free local courtesy tenderness that demands your transport available for attention. Like Frank’s, it is truly place for you. The traditional something to behold. country pub serves real ale and a diners. Please enquire for seasonal menu using fresh local further details A warm welcome awaits you at ingredients. The pubs cosy The Lion of Kent in Bearsted. The interior features red Chesterfield Bookings now being taken for friendly pub on the Ashford Road sofas and exposed beams. offers a good selection of draught Bookings are now being taken for CHRISTMAS LUNCH and bottled beers, lager and ciders Christmas – whether it’s a lunch, & DINNER and a well stocked wine cellar. dinner or private party be sure to 3 Courses Mon-Thur £26 The restaurant has an exciting book soon. menu boasting over 30 main Fri-Sun £28.50 courses to choose from. If you are planning ahead for your Christmas celebrations, be sure to 01622 755177 book early. It’s great value at £8.95 The Street, Boxley, Maidstone ME14 3DR for a festive meal, which includes a glass of wine, plus there are a www.thekingsarmsmaidstone.co.uk E: [email protected] selection of starters and desserts. ‘Certificate of A great way to raise a glass this Excellence Christmas! Whatever the occasion there is one thing that draws 2013/’14/’15

Maidstone East November 2015 29 News downsmail.co.uk ‘I want to see town go for growth’ A TOWN centre troubleshooter brought in to change the face of Maidstone believes the county town is full of “untapped potential”. Paul Spooner (pictured), who has He told the Town Centre Man- which opens up direct channels to centre development. worked on regeneration projects in agement and Town Team: “I am government funds to promote “This is absolutely critical, as not Manchester, Birmingham and confident we can see significant growth. only are they the highways author- Portsmouth, has been appointed in- growth in Maidstone in the next 10 Mr Spooner was part of the team ity, but this town is their home. The terim director of planning and de- years.” which worked on the Birmingham future of Maidstone is important to velopment at Maidstone Council, A qualified town planner with an Broad Street Bid – the first of its kind them as a business and their long- following the de- MBA, Mr Spooner says Maidstone is in the country. term asset values.” parture of Zena brimming with untapped potential. He said: “I want to see a county A council spokesman said: “We Cooke in August. He said: “We have many fantastic town that is really going for growth appointed Paul Spooner to ensure Mr Spooner has assets and many development op- – not a town looking 20 years ahead. that important work continues to pledged to use his portunities. It is time we started to The success of the town centre man- improve Maidstone as a place while skills and contacts punch above our weight and recog- agement adds value to the overall we look at the future shape of the of- to create a nise the importance of Maidstone to process and gives us a head start ficer structure. Mr Spooner brings a “square mile” in the county of Kent.” over our competitors. wealth of experience of regeneration Maidstone, much The town centre management has He said he would also be devel- projects and will carry forward our th same as that in the city of London. already looked at the possibility of oping a relationship with Kent ambitions especially for the town It would include the redevelopment creating a Bid – a business improve- County Council with a view to es- centre, commercial projects and the of land at Maidstone East station. ment district – in the town centre, tablishing a joint approach to town local plan.” He also hopes to influence management of The Mall to bring forward their long-term improvement plans for the shopping centre – and Investment plan to boost The Mall get rid of some of the town’s most prominent “eyesore” sites. PAUL Spooner hopes he can work the town.” Born in Folkestone and a former with Capital & Regional, the owners Mr Spooner said he was commit- director of economic development at of the Mall, to find a way to attract ted to bring about the redevelop- Birmingham City Council, responsi- new retail and leisure investment ment of land at Maidstone East ble for city centre regeneration and which will allow the re-vamp of the railway station, in conjunction with major economic development proj- Mall to proceed sooner rather than KCC and Network Rail. ects, Mr Spooner later served as Eng- later. He also plans to put a pro- lish Partnerships’ regional director This would also include a major gramme in place to get rid of eye- for North West and West Midlands overhaul of the bus station, which sores, such as Wren’s Cross on and director of the West Midlands at the interim director of planning and Upper Stone Street, while making Homes and Communities Agency. development said was “a priority for more of the town’s heritage assets. Before this, he spent seven years everyone”. “I intend to do everything I can to with Portsmouth City Council as di- He said: “We need to have a bus make sure the planners are behind rector of development and led the station that is fit for purpose for the us so we can get high quality devel- public/private sector partnership for 21st century. I am determined to opment which fits your aspirations the regeneration of Portsmouth Har- find a way forward to lift this end of for the town centre.” bour. The blueprint for success Pedestrians at heart of vision THE blueprint has been drawn up the town centre co-ordinator. PLANS for the future of Maidstone will make pedestrians a prior- for the management of Maidstone. The co-ordinator will continue to ity. As of April 2016, the plan is for organise business briefings and su- Mr Spooner said the most successful towns were those which pro- the Town Centre Management and pervise working groups covering vided a good “walking experience”. Town Team to join forces as a com- regeneration, events and market- The new gyratory works, due to commence in May, will place a munity interest company, designed ing, while MaidSafe will work strong emphasis on providing a good quantity and quality of to benefit the community rather closely with the night time and day pedestrian space, he assured. than private shareholders. time economy forums. He said he hoped to improve the relationship between businesses A strategic board will join forces Ian Tucker, who chairs the TCM on both sides of the river, which would include tidying up the with members of the council and and TT marketing group, said: “It shrubbery around the Millennium Bridge and Archbishop’s Palace. senior officers, plus representatives is good to see we are on the road to He said: “It’s all about improving the environment and putting from Kent County Council, the achieving one organisation that pedestrians first. business and voluntary sectors, to brings together the best of the “The river is an asset, so let’s use it. We want to create a town oversee the work of MaidSafe (the TCM, the Town Team and Maid- which is a relaxing place to spend money and time.” crime reduction partnership) and stone Council.” Plenty of interest in growing group for retired MORE than 200 men and women minds and would like to take part zens’ bus pass, and several times a opera and ballet. have now joined the Maidstone in outings and activities with simi- year there are outings to places of The whole group gets together U3A. lar like-minded people. interest further afield. once a month at the Union Street Since moving to its new meeting The club has more than 40 inter- This year, the group had a week- centre, where a guest speaker is in- centre in the Salvation Army hall, est groups, including short and end trip to Portsmouth Dockyard vited to give a talk to members. Union Street, the group has grown long walks groups, bird watching, and the Isle of Wight and more re- For more details about the group rapidly, but there is still room for butterflies and geology. cently a visit to the war graves in and its activities, find out more at more. One group arranges trips to France and Belgium. the website www.u3asites/maid- U3A caters for the retired or places of interest across the county, A monthly film evening is very stone.org.uk or call them on 01622 semi-retired who have lively making good use of the senior citi- popular, as is the screening of 734298.

30 Maidstone East November 2015 Maidstone Borough Council UpdateBorough East, November 2015

Cobtree Manor Park Visitor Centre and Café Turn to page 2 to find out about Maidstone’s newest attraction

www.maidstone.gov.uk 2 Maidstone Borough Council New Cobtree Visitor Centre and Café The new Cobtree Visitor Centre and Café at Cobtree Manor Park in Forstal Road, Aylesford has opened its doors to the public. The Centre is officially named the ‘Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake Visitor Centre’ in honour of the founder of Cobtree Zoo, which was based at the park until 1959. The Centre is open from 8.30am to 4pm seven days a week, offering guests a full hot and cold menu featuring locally-sourced produce (including breakfast served from 8.30am — 11am daily). The park itself continues to be open from 7am to dusk every day. Chef Neil Smith welcomes the first customers, Dee Laird and grandson Sonny The Centre was funded by a £300,000 grant from the Cobtree Charity Trust Limited, and follows a raft of recent improvements, including new play equipment, a running route and sculpture trail. Those improvements saw the park receive the coveted national Green Flag Award for the first time in 2014, recognising its high standards and excellent facilities. Cobtree Manor Park is run by the Cobtree Manor Estate Trust charity, and is managed by Maidstone Borough Council on the Trust’s behalf. The Trust is financially independent from Maidstone Borough Council, with all money raised through the café and parking charges being reinvested in the park to maintain its current high standards.

Applications now open for the Warm homes grants no matter what you earn! £25,000 Cobtree Charitable Prize As the weather gets colder, you may Registered charities and community How to apply: Please send an be interested in heavily subsidised loft organisations in the borough of outline of your project, including a and/or cavity wall insulation to help Maidstone are invited to apply for the detailed description of the aims and reduce your heating bills by up to £320 Cobtree Charitable Prize of £25,000, objectives, how you intend to spend a year! The funding is based on the type generously donated by the Cobtree the money and an estimated timeline of house you live in — not on household Charity Trust. by post to: The Cobtree Charity Trust, income — and is open to anyone who Registered Office, MHA MacIntyre owns or privately rents their home. The prize of £25,000 will be awarded Hudson, Cornwallis House, Pudding The first stage is to book a free to a new, major, stand-alone project Lane, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1NH assessment with Aran Services, which which benefits the local community will see what improvements could be such as the construction of a new hut When to apply: Closing date for made to your home to save you money for a community group or the applications: Sunday 31 January and make your home more comfortable. restoration of a local landmark. The 2016 (Funds issued Friday 1 April You'll then be advised how much you'd project must be scheduled 2016) need to pay and, if you would like to go to start in 2016. Please note that the The decision of the Cobtree Charity ahead, how you can do so. Book your Trust is unable to consider Trust is final and projects which do assessment by calling 0800 1701174 or applications for funds to top up an not fit the criteria outlined above will filling in the enquiry form at existing project. not be eligible for consideration. www.kent.gov.uk/warmhomes

Our paid for bulky collection service includes Saturday collections - Bulky refuse book online or by calling 01622 602600. But if your items are still usable you could help one of the many local charities which collect for free or a small donation. Many residents are finding this a better solution to get rid of items they no longer need. Alternatively the local household waste recycling centre at Burial Ground Lane, Tovil accepts many materials from cooking oil to white goods and recycles more than 65% of the rubbish taken there. It is open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 4.30pm, and Sunday and Bank Holidays, 9am to 4pm. The council also operates a Saturday freighter service but all the rubbish goes to landfill so please only use it for items that cannot be re-used or recycled. The freighter cannot accept cardboard, small electrical items, textiles or garden waste which can be recycled with the household waste collection service. And it doesn’t accept large bulky items, building rubble, commercial waste, electrical items or hazardous material. For more information about bulky rubbish services, including paid for doorstep collections and the freighter, visit maidstone.gov.uk or call the cleansing hotline on 01622 602162. Maidstone Borough Council 3 Fant by-election News in brief Councillor Matt Boughton (Conservative) was elected as councillor for Fant ward at the by-election on 10 September. Christmas Opening Hours You can contact him at [email protected] or on Maidstone council’s offices, 07795 192042. Gateway reception and telephone contact centre will close at 12pm The political make-up of the council remains Conservative 25, on Thursday 24 December for the Liberal Democrat 20, Independent 6, Labour 2 and UKIP 2. Christmas break. They will be open as normal on Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 December 2015 Appeal success and will be closed on Friday 1 Maidstone council’s planning and legal Lane, Sutton Valence and 4 at Back January 2016. teams have won some important Lane, Boughton Monchelsea. In each Easy health rides for all case the inspector supported the planning appeals in recent months Cycling can make a positive council’s policies to protect the defending Maidstone’s countryside change to your health. countryside, finding that the harm to from harmful development. Community Cycleworks offers it would outweigh the need for more guided rides with supportive, In the six months up to the end of housing in the borough. September the council won 83% of all encouraging and friendly leaders appeals against its decisions to refuse The inspector also upheld the council’s for new and returning cyclists. decision to refuse a 56,000 square Short, gentle-paced rides, free applications. metres application for a warehousing bike checks and loan bikes Most notable were 22 dwellings at and industrial complex at Waterside available on application. George Street, Staplehurst, 12 at South Park, Hollingbourne. To register and for more information contact Community Cycleworks - 01622 804524, Council tax and services [email protected], www.communitycycleworks.co.uk Did you know Maidstone Borough Council services cost an average, band D, taxpayer £4.53 week! Waste success And out of every council tax pound - 71p goes to Kent Maidstone council’s Commercial County Council, 15p goes to Maidstone Borough Council, Waste service has signed up its 9p to Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, and 5p to three hundredth customer. Kent Fire and Rescue (excluding parish council precepts). Maidstone Borough Commercial Waste Solutions supports small and medium sized businesses with a bespoke waste collection service. It provides waste management services for events such as the World Custard Pie Championships and the Bearsted Village Faye. Visit the commercial waste pages on www.maidstone.gov.uk for more Solar panels information or to get a quote.

We’re pleased to report that the solar Lockmeadow Market Hall, Vinters Park Christmas Lights panels installed at our depot in March Crematorium and Magnolia House in Maidstone’s Christmas lights have been a great success, generating Cripple Street. This will save the switch on event will be on more energy – and therefore saving council around £16,000 each year. We Thursday 19 November. more money – than expected. We’ve are also looking at whether solar therefore extended the project to the panels can be installed at Maidstone Christmas at Cobtree other buildings that we own – Leisure Centre. All the family will enjoy making Christmas decorations from traditional materials at Cobtree Peter Pan Manor Park, Aylesford on Monday 21 December, 10am - 12pm. Join the Hazlitt Theatre for this year's amazing pantomime Call 01622 602788 to book, £3 per production of Peter Pan! person. Fly to Neverland where you'll join Peter, Tinkerbell, Wendy, John, Michael and the Lost Boys - not to mention Captain Hook! Christmas market If you believe in magic then you won’t be disappointed, with Father Christmas will visit family fun, laughter, plenty of slap-stick and a star-studdded Maidstone Market on Tuesday 22 cast that will have you up on your feet - and don't forget to boo, December. Don’t be late for turkey will you! sales! The market will be open as You can't beat this family treat so book up for your ride to usual on Tuesdays and Saturdays Neverland today! during the festive period except on Saturday 26 December when Tickets from £12 – call the Box Office on 01622 758611 or visit it will be closed. www.hazlitttheatre.com 4 Maidstone Borough Council Flooding

What you should do One in six UK properties is at risk from flooding, but there are things you can do to in an emergency help protect yourself and your property. Be prepared No matter how careful you are, there are some things you can’t Find out if you’re at risk from river control. Any one of them could hit you and your family, damage flooding, and sign up for alerts, by visiting your home, or harm your business, but it isn’t hard to make sure www.environment-agency.gov.uk or calling that you’re properly prepared for an emergency. Thinking about the Agency’s Floodline on 0345 9881188. what you’d need to do in an emergency will mean that you’re ready Prepare a household flood plan so that you should they ever happen. know how to protect pets, cars, furniture and electrical equipment – you can You can find lots of information in the “What Should I Do in an Emergency?” download a template at handbook on our website – search “Emergency Planning” at www.gov.uk/prepare-for-a-flood www.maidstone.gov.uk If you’re at risk, buy flood protection In case of bad weather, you can find updates on our services at equipment in advance. Find out what www.maidstone.gov.uk/winter options are available at www.floodforum.org.uk. Winter Weather You are allowed to clear snow and ice from your driveway and pavements If flooding happens outside your house – despite rumours to the contrary, there are no health Call Floodline for updates. and safety regulations that stop this! The best way to do this is to use rock If it’s safe to do so, turn off the gas, salt, which will melt the ice or snow and stop it from refreezing. You can electricity and water before water enters also use sand if you don’t have enough salt – this will provide grip your home. underfoot. If any local salt bins for roads and footpaths near your home need refilling, Move your family and pets to a higher please let KCC Highways know on 03000 418181. position with a means of escape. If you have elderly or vulnerable friends, relatives or neighbours, please Don’t touch sources of electricity when check on them during periods of very cold weather, if you can. Cold standing in water. weather is especially dangerous to older people or those with serious If there’s raw sewage in your property, illnesses. keep out. See if you can stay elsewhere Driving in snow and ice: until it’s been properly cleaned. Never drive through flood water — even if Only make your journey if it is essential you think it looks safe. Just one foot Make sure all snow and ice is cleared from your windows; lights and (30cm) of flowing water can move a family mirrors are clean; and the number plates are visible and legible car, and according to the AA, 32% of Keep well back from the car in front – stopping distances can be ten flood-related deaths are by drowning in a times greater than on dry roads vehicle. On icy roads, drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; Avoid walking in flood water. Fast moving accelerate and brake very gently water is dangerous and you will be unable to see hazards such as missing manhole Drive particularly slowly on bends and avoid sudden actions. covers. Always take de-icer and an ice scraper with you, as well as a torch, warm clothing, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, plus a warm drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down. Sandbags

We keep a limited stock of sandbags, Power Cuts which are used in the first instance to If electricity is crucial for any medical equipment, contact UK Power protect key infrastructure identified by Networks on 0800 169 9970 to join their Priority Register so that you the emergency services, or as a barrier receive extra support during a power cut. This is also available for those to divert water away from numbers of with disabilities, elderly residents or those with young babies in the properties at a time. We will always help household. where we can, but there is no duty on the council to provide sandbags to During a power cut, to receive updates via text message, text POWER communities, individual homes or and your postcode to 80876. You will not be charged to receive messages. businesses. If you think sandbags will be You will need to register for this service each time there’s a power cut. useful for your home, you can buy them For advice about what to do during a power cut visit from builders merchants to store at home www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercut ready to react quickly if there’s a problem. Maidstone Borough Council 5 Give a dog a name Enter our RK9 competition and you could WIN a £50 gift voucher for a local pet supplies store. Our new RK9 husky mascot is already busy promoting Responsible Canine Ownership throughout Maidstone but our furry friend still needs a name! It’s easy to enter… simply like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Responsiblek9s then send us a private message with your suggestion before Friday 20 November 2015. The winning name*, chosen by our RK9 team, will receive a £50 gift voucher to spend in a local pet supplies store. The RK9 campaign is part of the council’s ‘Dog Watch’ WIN scheme which uses information provided by a residents to help catch £50 irresponsible dog gift voucher owners. Information provided by our residents really increases the chances of our officers catching the culprits. If you have witnessed dog fouling in your area or have any helpful information please contact Environmental Enforcement on 01622 602202 or email Maidstone BoroughBorough Council [email protected]

* The judges decision is final. If the winning name is suggested by more than one person, a winner will be chosen from those people at random. The winning name will be announced on the RK9 Facebook page after 20 November. Competition not open to Maidstone Borough Council staff. REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY Local plan progress PARADE AND SERVICE The latest consultation on the Maidstone Borough Local Plan – which will set out how Maidstone will develop up to SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2015 2031 – is drawing to a close. The council will consider all of Led by the Salvation Army Band, the 36 Engineer the issues raised during the consultation with the aim of Regiment and the Queen’s Gurkha Engineers publishing a full, revised version of the local plan for further public consultation early next year. The plan will Followed by military and civilian contingents then be submitted to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. An independent Parade marches off planning inspector will be appointed by the Secretary of 10.30AM from Week Street to State to conduct an ‘Examination in Public’ towards the end the Memorialmorial in the of 2016, before the plan is finally adopted the following year. BrBroadwayoadway

Councillor Burton, Chairman of the Strategic Planning, Memorialrial ServiceServic at the Sustainability and Transport Committee, said: “The 10.50AM BroadwayBroadway protection of open space and precious landscapes is an essential part of the Local Plan. Once the Plan is in place we will be able to defend against inappropriate applications PParadearade marchesmarches off fromfrom WWeekeek StrStreet,eet, alongalong thethe for further development. It’s important that we achieve the High Street,Street, past the TownTToown HallHall and acrossacross the 2016 deadline, otherwise we run the risk of needing to Bridge GyratoryGyratory to the Memorial in the BroadwayBroadway extend the plan period, and the possibility of losing control of the process to Central Government.” Keep up to date with progress on the local plan at www.maidstone.gov.uk/localplan www.maidstone.gov.ukwww.maidstone.gov.uk 6 Maidstone Borough Council Bin it to Win it!

Sign up to The Big Maidstone Food Waste Challenge and you could win a £30 gift voucher for The Mall Chequers Shopping Centre or family swimming vouchers for Maidstone Leisure Centre.

Maidstone residents are being asked to promise their support to a new food waste incentive scheme designed to cut down on the amount of food waste thrown straight into the rubbish bin. 7 million tonnes of food and drink is thrown away from homes in the UK every year and more than half of this is food and drink we could have eaten. Wasting this food costs the average household £470 a year, rising to £700 for a family with children! (source: www.lovefoodhastewaste.com)

To take the challenge, follow these simple steps 1) Sign up for the challenge and promise your support at The Win Bin www.maidstone.gov.uk/foodwastechallenge or by sending The food waste that we collect is your name, address and phone number by post to: The Big composted on an industrial scale Maidstone Food Waste Challenge, Maidstone Borough using a specialised technique to Council, Bircholt Road, Parkwood, Maidstone ME15 9XY produce a nutrient rich compost 2) Reduce your avoidable food waste as much as which is used locally on Kent farms. possible by planning your meals in advance, using As a thank you for your leftovers in tasty recipes or adding scraps to your commitment to tackling food compost heap if you have one waste and to helping the 3) Put ALL your unavoidable food waste (such as environment, all households who vegetable peelings, teabags or bones) straight into your take the challenge food waste recycling bin, NOT into your rubbish bin and put their food waste out for collection 4) Leave your food waste bin out for collection on your will be entered into a quarterly competition rubbish and recycling collection days to win great prizes. Every quarter, 50 family swimming vouchers for Maidstone Leisure Centre (to be used within three months) and 20 Mall Chequers shopping centre Please put these items gift vouchers worth £30 each will be awarded to households chosen at in yoyour rreeecyyccling bin random. For more information, frequently asked questions and terms and conditions please visit www.maidstone.gov.uk/foodwastechallenge email [email protected] or call 01622 602600. This scheme is being paid for by funding from the Plastic meat Glass bottles Plastic fruit & Food & drink Department for Government and Local Communities. trays and jarrs vegetable punnets cartons Pumpkin Power Two in five Halloween fans are expected to buy a pumpkin this October but research shows that nearly two thirds of Newspaper(s) Leaﬂets, envelopes, Phone bookkss Cardboarrdd people throw their pumpkins away once the celebrations & magazines paper & junk mail & yellow pages packkaaging are over. Worse still, a quarter of those people throw edible pumpkin flesh straight in the rubbish bin. An estimated 18,000 tonnes of pumpkin was sent to landfill sites in the UK last Halloween — that’s the same weight as 1,500 double decker buses!* This year, make a pledge to squash pumpkin waste by using the edible insides to Flattened Plastic bottles YYooghurt pots & Food & drinkkss cans make tasty meals that all the family can enjoy. Visit cardboard & containerrss plastic tubs & tins www.hubbub.org.uk for tips, ideas and recipes from celebrity chefs or search #PumpkinRescue on Twitter. If you do have any leftovers, keep them for another day, recycle them by putting them in your food waste bin or put them on your compost heap.

Sweet & biscuit Metal bottle tops Kitchen foil & Empty tins & jar lids foil food trraays aerosol cans No carrier bags or black sacks TToo rreecyyccle textiles, place them next to yyoour bin in a standarrdd sized plastic carrier bag (tied up) on yyoour RRECYCLING collection dayy..

* Source: Populus Survey Christmas and NewNew YearYYeear RecyclingRecycling and Rubbish CollectionsCollections 2015 – 2016 IMPORTANT:IMPORTANT: Some Christmas and NewNew YearYear collectionscollections wilwilll be differdifferentent to to usual usual so please check youryour collectioncollection daysdays carefully.carefully. BIN COLLECTIONCOLLECTION DATESDAATTES If youryour collectioncollection is due on It willwill be collectedcollected on Friday 25 Decembere Monday 28 DecDe ember Monday 28 December Tuesday 29 Deceember Tuesday 29 December Wednesday3y 30 December Wednesday 30 Decembermber Thursday 31 December Thursdaay 31 December Saturday 2 January Friday 1 Januaryy Monday 4 January Monday 4 January Tuesday 5 January Tuesdasday 5 JanuJanuary Wednesday 6 January Wednesday 6 JaJanuary Thursday 7 January Thurhursdaday 7 JanJanuary Friday 8 January Friday 8 January Saturday 9 January

Garden Wast Freighter service and Bulky Waste Garden waste TThehe SSaturday freighter service is suspended on collections will be 2266 DecDe ember, 2 January and 9 January. suspended for one TThehe bulkb y waste collection, from Frida collection service 25 December until iss suspendedsus Friday 8 January. rom Monday 28 Collections will resum December until on Saturday 9 Januar SSaturaturday 9 January.

Glass bottles and Wrapping paper, ‘‘TisTis the Season jars (lids too!) cards and to rrecycle:ecycle: envelopes ThisThis Christmas, givegiv e a Tins and cans Cardboard presentpresent that won’t costcost the earth, and recyclerecycle allall packaging that extraextra festivefestive wwaste.aste. Please rrecycleecycle these Plastic bottles, Kitchen foil, foil items byby putting them in plastic meat trays trays and dishes yyourour grgreeneen rrecyclingecycling bin: and juice cartons FoodFood WasteWaste This Christmas givegive the turkeyturkey and the ffoodood bin a good stuffing! RememberRemember allall ffoodood wwasteaste including ccooked,ooked, rraw,aw, bones and shellsshells ccanan go in youryour foodfood wastewaste bin. MoteMoMotetee ParkParaarkrk

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A chargecharge of £1 forfor up to six hourhourss ccarar parking ccouldould be intrintroducedoduced in Mote PParkark frfromom January 2016. The charchargege wilwilll start at 10am, which means that the gates would open one hour earlier – at 8am – to givegive two frfreeee hourhourss in the morning. TherTheree would also be an option forfor a £40 annual permit,permit, and therethere would be concessionsconcessions or freefree permits (based on agreedagreed criteria) forfor volunteers,volunteers, ccommunityommunity and special interinterestest grgroups,oups, charities and park residents.residents. This is not a decision that councillorscouncillors took lightly.lightly. Unfortunately,Unfortunately, loclocalal gogovernmentvernment looklookss set to suffer moremore budget budget cuts cuts in in the the c omingcoming y earyears,s, and and the the c ouncilcouncil needs needs to to mak makee tough tough decisions decisions to to protectprotect servicesservices forfor the most vulnerablevulnerable as wellwell as kkeepingeeping the boroughborough a nicenice placeplace to live.live. Mote ParkPark is one of the borborough’sough’s grgreatesteatest assets. These charchargesges would help to makmakee it sustainable, keepingkeeping it at the high standardstandard that residentsresidents and visitorsvisitors havehave ccomeome to eexpect,xpect, as wellwell as alallowinglowing fforor vital imprimprovementsovements to prprotectotect it fforor futurfuturee genergenerations.ations.

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For more information or Museum Events to book, call 01622 602838 Fright Night! Look out for Fright Night! The Magic of Masks Our October ‘Late’ on 29 October will be dedicated and Puppets to an evening of creepy From 21 November, this exhibition will happenings, including a delight the whole family! Objects from performance to chill the around the world — from traditional spine from the Anaconda Punch and Judy puppets to Rajasthani Dance Troupe and a talk by marionettes, and Commedia Dell’Arte our curators on the more leather masks to animatronics from film weird and spooky objects and TV — are brought together in this in our collections. Dare wonderful free exhibition. Younger you come along..? visitors will even be able to have fun acting out their own play in costumes and masks on our specially built stage.

Manga Workshops On Saturday 7 November, October budding artists will have a chance to find out Half Term about this unique style October half term is and create their own always busy with plenty characters on a of Halloween-themed storyboard. Under 16s arts and crafts! Come from 11am-1pm, and over along to the Museum 16s from 2pm-4pm. from 26-30 October to take part. We’ll be pumpkin-carving on 31 October – places for this special Get Stuffed! event must be booked in advance on For those fascinated by taxidermy, there’s 01622 602838. an opportunity to create your own ethically sourced stuffed bird on 5 December! Christmas Led by two practising taxidermists, this all day Opening Hours workshop will guide you through the process of We will be closed 24-28 December preparing and stuffing the inclusive for Christmas. We’ll then provided specimen. Early close early at 3pm on New Year’s Eve, booking is advised. and will be closed on New Year’s Day.

More information on all upcoming exhibitions and events can be found at www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk Bookings via 01622 602838. 10 Maidstone Borough Council Get Involved and Have Your Say

Consultations Petition View our current consultations and Comments, Set up a petition and give your comments online at present it to council or a complaints and committee for consideration www.maidstone.gov.uk/haveyoursay compliments Send us your comments, Attend Meetings complaints and compliments. If you’ve got something to say, Attend council or committee good or bad, get in touch meetings at the Town Hall Watch our webcasts You can watch our council and Speak to your local committee meetings online at Councillor www.maidstone.gov.uk/council Your local councillor can look into things for you, raise an issue with Facebook the appropriate body, or help you Get in touch with us on find out who you need to talk to facebook: Apply to be a www.facebook.com/ Councillor maidstoneboroughcouncil Ask a question Find details at Twitter Ask questions to the leader www.maidstone.gov.uk/ or committee chairmen at council Join the conversation and council and committee tweet us - @maidstonebc meetings.

For more information visit: www.maidstone.gov.uk/haveyoursay or email [email protected]

Residents’ survey

Maidstone Borough Council is committed to providing value for money services and wants to know New! Womens’ Netball Sessions what residents think about them. This year’s residents’ survey will be Play netball, make friends and get fit! If you are aged 16 or over, asking what it is like to live in come along to our new netball sessions (term time only) on Tuesday Maidstone borough and how evenings, 7.30 — 8.30pm at Heather House, Park Wood, Maidstone. satisfied people are with borough There’s no need to book — just come along and join in! For women council services. aged 16+, £1 per person per session. All abilities welcome, no experience necessary. For more information please contact Aimee The findings from our survey will be on 07872933097 or email: [email protected] used to see how well we are delivering the services that matter to you and to decide what needs doing differently in the future. Healthy Living Programmes Surveys are carried out every two years. This year’s includes We offer a range of programmes questions to find out the services helping you to lead a healthier life, from and facilities which are most weight management and exercise referral important and which are most in to falls prevention and health walks. We also need of improvement. The answers run programmes helping men to become will help us set next year’s council more active and lose a few pounds. If you’re budget. interested in losing weight or getting more Please take part if you are asked active please visit and help us to improve the local www.maidstone.gov.uk/healthyliving, email area and the services that we [email protected] or call provide in ways that matter to you. 01622 602222. MAKE IT MAIDSTONE MAKE IT PROSPEROUS

Maidstone Bridges Gyratory Scheme The ring road system across the river in have to cross the river twice to reach their working days and weekend working, Maidstone town centre is a congestion destination. The scheme will be funded making the most of increased daylight and air quality hotspot – especially at by the South East Local Growth Fund, hours and running through the school rush hour, so a new scheme has been with a £1.14 million contribution from holidays to get the work done as quickly developed to help improve things. Maidstone Borough Council. as possible, limiting the inevitable impact The scheme will see the construction of This will reduce congestion, and improve on road users. two additional northbound lanes (from journey times by 15-20% at peak times. For more information as the scheme Tovil in the direction of Junction 6 of the The scheme will also see improved M20) on the eastern (High Street) side of progresses, keep an eye on future the River Medway, with new junctions pedestrian and cycle routes, and the editions of Borough Update, the controlled by traffic signals. This means introduction of landscaping schemes. Maidstone Borough and Kent County that northbound traffic on the A229 will The main works will run for 4 months Council websites and social media pages, avoid the gyratory system, and no longer from June 2016. This will include 12 hour and local media.

Business Terrace

The Business Terrace is now open! If you are thinking of starting a business or newly started and need free advice and want to network with like- minded people — we can help. Visit www.businessinmaidstone.co.uk to find out more or just pop into The Business Terrace in King Street, Maidstone anytime between 9am and 6pm Monday to Friday. Or call 01622 239309, or email [email protected]. Let’s Do Business — the Government’s delivery partner for start-up loans — are on site Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, while the Kent Foundation for Young Entrepreneurs are on site every Friday. Barclays’ local business manager is on site every other Wednesday. We also offer desks by the hour, flexible starter office space and meeting rooms for home-based businesses needing a professional front; somewhere to meet with clients and superfast Wi-Fi. 12 Maidstone Borough Council Working

Liz Hazell has for you worked in the waste industry for more than five years and as Waste Management Officer for Maidstone Borough Council for the past 18 months. Her team promotes residential recycling services and works to increase the amount of waste that is recycled or composted. She also looks after the council’s commercial waste service. What attracted you to the job? I have a passion for the environment and think that recycling valuable resources and re- using items when possible is very important. I had What do you like most about worked in the waste services your job? department at the council before and jumped at the opportunity to I enjoy the variety of work on both return to help Maidstone achieve the residential and commercial its ambitious target to increase waste services. The role has recycling to 60% over the next 4 enabled me to work on some years. exciting projects including an incentive scheme which is being implemented to promote the use of the food waste Facts about the service collection service. What does good Last year we: customer service �Completed 7 million mean to you? household collections. Ensuring that we �Disposed of 55,915 tonnes listen to our of household waste. customers and �Including 27,501 tonnes of provide excellent recycling and compost. services and value for money.

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 downsmail.co.uk News Pub donations 25 years on Firm seeks STAFF and customers at the Red expansion Lion in Lenham have raised more GFORCES has been in talks with than £25,000 for the air ambulance Thurnham Parish Council and since it attended an incident at the Maidstone Council over its hopes pub 25 years ago. to expand its operation in Caring Now, 25 years on, staff and cus- Lane. tomers at the pub in The Square The company – a leading have fittingly raised more than provider of internet software and £25,000 for Kent, Surrey & Sussex Left: Chef Rhianna Le-carpentier, services to the automotive industry Air Ambulance a year after it cele- general manager Mike Pheby and – is discussing how it might build brated its Silver Jubilee. assistant Manager Kym Tungate. an on-site training centre for its This year they raised £4,000 from clients. their annual harvest auction. Land- Abve: The air ambulance lands outside The Red Lion in 1990 Thurnham Cllr Peter Waite said lady Nicole Mills said: “I'm always the company was looking to de- flabbergasted by the generosity of molish a bungalow next to its site the donations and people bidding Macmillan Cancer Support, the 1989. Since then it has helped thou- RNLI, Riding for the Disabled, sands of people and saved many on Gooseberry Farm, which would their hard-earned money in such provide replacement parking for hard economic times.” Spinal Muscular Atrophy Trust, the lives after attending more than Royal British Legion and Battersea 25,000 callouts. that lost by building the training fa- This year’s auction, golf days and cility on its existing site. meat raffles raised £7,000 which Cat and Dogs Home. Each callout costs about £2,500 so Kent Air Ambulance was the grand total of £32,319 raised by He said: “There is no planning will also benefit the Heart of Kent application at this stage, but the Hospice, Demelza Hospice for launched from its former base at The Red Lion will help potentially Rochester Airport in December save 13 lives. company wanted to hold early Children, Cancer Research, talks with interested parties about their hopes and that is appreci- Barty plan Parish probes woods activities ated.” A FRESH plan to build 100 houses THURNHAM Parish Council there were issues about costs. Councillors agreed to reserve any in Barty Farm, near Bearsted has will ask Maidstone Council Members felt that while this full discussion on the issue until a been lodged to Maidstone Council. about the activities of two chari- was a civil matter, they wanted to planning application and full de- The scheme, which includes ties running children’s activities know why ballast had been details are received. highways information, was handed in woods behind Howe Court, livered to Rutland Woods, used to Thurnham parish councillors, Crismill Lane. by the Jubilee Church, and which Hospice help who had until October 30 to re- Councillors heard that the activities are carried out at Howe PARISH councillors in Thurnham spond. owner of Howe Court had made Court Woods by the Wild Times agreed to make a £50 donation to The parish council has opposed repairs to a bridleway shared by group and whether any planning the Heart of Kent Hospice, near the plan from the outset. the groups and the property, but permissions were needed. Aylesford. EASY TO SELL Turn your unwanted items into cash. • Cars • Bikes • Cycles • Toys • Fruniture • Videos • CDs • Garden Equipment • Musical Instruments • Clothing etc etc Easy to upload FREE Private Ads Online www.downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone East November 2015 31 News | Health downsmail.co.uk

Smoking breaks YOU are most likely to smoke if Your health according you live in the High Street, North, East, Shepway South or Park Wood wards. The five areas of urban Maid- to where you live ... stone contain parts in which more than 35% of over 15s smoke. By contrast, Allington, Barming ADULTS over 65 are more likely to seek help for mental health issues in and Loose had a smoking preva- lence of less than 20%, along with west Maidstone than any other part of the borough. Boughton Monchelsea, Coxheath, During 2014, more than 16% of highest number of over 65s with Almost one in three (30%) of Yalding, Nettlestead, Laddingford, elderly residents from Bridge ward elective – booked – hospital admis- year 6 children in the borough are Sutton Valence, Headcorn, were in contact with mental health sions (54%), while Fant and North obese or overweight. Bearsted, Grove Green, Harriet- services, compared to the Kent and Downs wards (30%) had the Maidstone has some of the sham, Lenham and Hollingbourne. Maidstone average of 7.5%. lowest. highest nitrogen oxide concentra- The next highest were those in High Street and Shepway tions in Kent – particularly on Watching weight Fant (10%), Shepway North (9.3%), North (27%) had the highest routes from the town centre to SHEPWAY has the highest levels of High Street (9.2%) and Shepway emergency admission rates for over Tovil and the Tonbridge Road obesity in the Maidstone borough. South (9%) 65s, with Detling and Thurnham crossroads at Wateringbury. Its north and south wards had Those wards with the lowest (14%) the lowest. Uptake of young people’s obesity rates of 28%, matched number were North Downs (4%) Bridge (1%) had the highest preventative sexual health services only by parts of High Street and and Sutton Valence and Langley emergency admission rates for falls, is higher in Maidstone than else- Park Wood wards. These wards (4.1%). with North Downs (0.5%) lowest. where in West Kent. Maidstone has have a low consumption of fruit Other key findings for the period Loose (1.1%) had the highest a higher chlamydia rate than Kent; and vegetables. 2012-2015 were: rate of hip or knee replacements, gonorrhoea has increased by 2.51% The areas with the lowest levels Loose and Park Wood had the with East (0.03%) lowest. in West Kent. of obesity, less than 20%, were Bearsted and parts of Bridge and Fant wards. Head for the hills for a long life Drinking levels CHILDREN born in parts of the the lowest life expectancy in the multi-agency approach to address BINGE drinking is most prevalent North Downs can expect to live borough at 76.45 years. fundamental needs such as hous- in five urban wards. longer than those born anywhere In the Maidstone borough life ing, clean air and employment be- More than 20% of people in else in the Maidstone borough. expectancy was 81.73 – identical to fore they can contemplate North, East, High Street, Fant and The typical life expectancy of a that of Kent as a whole. addressing associated lifestyles South wards were said to be binge child from Detling and Thurnham The figures were released as such as diet, smoking and alcohol drinkers, compared to 8%-12% in ward, which is in the Kent Downs part of Kent Public Health Obser- consumption. Barming, Loose, Yalding, Net- Area of Outstanding Natural vatory’s Health and Social Care “The importance of education, tlestead, Laddingford, Coxheath, Beauty, is 89.52 – the highest in Maps. accessible information and serv- Sutton Valence and Headcorn. the borough and below the UK West Kent is expected to see an ices to improve young people’s All the above figures were average of 81. The next highest increase of 22.4% (2,848 individu- outcomes still vary across the area. estimates from the Office for was the neighbouring North als) in those aged over 85 in the “A high number of people are National Statistics (ONS). Downs ward, which covers next five years and an increase of estimated to be living with undi- Hollingbourne, at 87.01 years. 59.4% in those aged over 65 dur- agnosed conditions such as hy- Other wards with above-aver- ing the next 20 years. pertension, diabetes, COPD, age life expectancy are A report before the GP-led West depression and dementia.” SECAmb to Downswood and Otham (85.41), Kent NHS Clinical Commission- The CCG says there is a need to Boxley (83.95), Harrietsham and ing Group (CCG) highlights areas focus on the early 40-plus popula- Lenham (82.73) and Bearsted requiring collaborative working tion now to prevent ill health bring in GPs (82.23). among partners “through joined- through addressing lifestyles, UNDER-fire South East Coast Am- Bridge ward, which covers the up commissioning and integrated early identification and pro-active bulance Service has appointed a GP London Road corridor between care”. It states: “Those in more de- self-management of diagnosed as medical director and West Kent The Broadway and Allington, has prived communities often need a conditions. CCG has been told this was likely to lead to a “culture change” in services. SECAmb has also acknowledged Machine gift to ward the benefit of having GPs in the CORNWALLIS Ward, at Maidstone Hospital has re- NHS 111 control room and has ceived a new ECG machine, paid for by the Maidstone been encouraged to fund this dur- Hospital League of Friends. ing the winter months. The equipment, which cost £3,375, will allow staff to GP-led CCGs in the South East quickly monitor patients on the ward. have been expressing concerns Ward manager Karen Dixon said: “This ECG machine about the quality and management will be a vital asset to our ward, which we will be able of ambulance services. to access quickly and easily from within our own unit.” The service will be “disaggre- Joyce Langton with ward co-ordinator Ann Carek, ward Joyce Langton, chairman of Maidstone Hospital gated” with separate services for manager Karen Dixon and volunteers Margaret League of Friends, said: “We are very pleased to provide Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Tunbridge and Helen Newman the ECG machine to Cornwallis Ward.” Crisis clinics Offers of help flood in for refugee children CRISIS clinics could be established OFFERS of help and donations have ment, DVDs and children’s toys. ing to help.” for a six-month pilot scheme in been flooding in for unaccompanied KCC is putting together a pro- For anyone still keen to donate Maidstone and Tonbridge by West children seeking asylum in Kent. gramme of learning in its reception items, KCC suggests sports equip- Kent CCG offering out-of-hours More than 170 offers of help have centres. ment, easy-reading books to help community-based resources for been received by the county council, Cllr Peter Oakford said: “It is with English lessons, board games, people aged 18 and over with seri- ranging from foster care to football humbling to know there are so many DVDs and, for younger refugee chil- ous mental health problems. The coaching and teaching, sports equip- kind people and organisations will- dren, crayons and colouring books. decision will be taken later this year.

32 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk Health | News Trusts’ trouble CHIEF executive of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust Glenn Birthing song wins global Douglas expressed concern at the annual meeting that it was now surrounded by three trusts tackling severe problems after Care Quality audience for singer Clea Commission reports. Medway, East LOCAL singer-songwriter Clea Midwifery Practice, asked me to Kent and now East Sussex have Llewellyn had an unlikely hit when a provide some unusual entertainment been rated as inadequate and rec- video starring her and a midwife by performing a song with her at the ommended for special measures. went viral. conference I agreed, because the “This presents us with challenges The video gained 100,000 hits in issue is personal to me. and opportunities we have to 24 hours after being placed online. “We wrote new lyrics to the tune meet,” he said. Clea – who has lived in Snodland of the Amy Winehouse hit ‘Rehab’, and worked in Maidstone – is known which turned it into a song about GP services locally for her albums and gigs, the birthing process and once a including running an open mic night video of this appeared online it got WEST Kent CCG is seeking to in Chatham, but she did not expect rapid shares in the birthing share with NHS England commis- worldwide attention when she community around the world. sioning (including the budget) of agreed to brighten up a conference “The message has resonated with primary care services (which infor trainee midwives at the William mums around the world and clude GP practices) in Maidstone Harvey Hospital. midwives, especially independent and the rest of West Kent. It be- Clea said: “Being a mum of two, organisations like Kent Midwifery lieves this will lead to improve- who has experienced both sides of Practice. audience.” ments in services. the coin in terms of birth (natural “I never expected this attention The video can be seen on: birth and Caesarean), this subject is and the number of hits is still https://www.facebook.com/sophie.m SOS for staff close to my heart. So when Virginia growing, but I think it’s great that .harrell/videos/1015320128645587 Howes, of the independent Kent this message has found such an 5/?__mref=message_bubble A FREEDOM to Speak Up guardian has been appointed by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Over 5,000 babies born at centre Practice nurses NHS Trust to ensure all hospital TUNBRIDGE Wells Hospital and ing birth in a birth centre is as safe staff are confident and encouraged CONCERNS grow about re- Maidstone Hospital Birth Centre for women with an uncomplicated cruitment of GP practice nurses. to raise concerns. saw 5,625 babies born in 2014 – the pregnancy as in hospital. Since the The trust says it wants to pro- West Kent CCG has been told trust says “that is about 187 school [Maidstone] centre opened three there is a need to create an edu- mote highest standards of patient classes”. years ago more than 1,300 babies cational resource. care and business practices. It added: “Research shows giv- have been born there. Online Leaflet NEW COMMUNITY INFORMATION Distribution AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Now TAKE AWAY The Downs Mail information hub is a community facility, MENU which can be found on our website, for local residents and available organisations to use. Local Indian Restaurant Search for information or promote with FREE DELIVERY your organisation and its services Maidstone Open until 11pm every day absolutely free. Free bottle of and Malling’s beer with every ➢ Employment & No.1 Free £10 spentHandymanLocal Training openings newspaper All types of renovationbuilding and ➢ Events gardening work ➢ Charities/Fundraising FREEundertaken. ESTIMATES •Carpentry • ➢ Schools & Colleges Brickwork • Tiling • Patio’s ➢ Local Authority • Decking Services • Distribution area can be ➢ Health & Wellbeing tailored to meet your needs ➢ Support Groups & PROMOTE YOUR • Arrive through the letterbox with Downs Mail Helplines VOLUNTEERING, • From 3000 - 88,000 addresses per month ➢ Clubs & Organisations EMPLOYMENT AND ➢ Groups & Societies TRAINING OPENINGS • Competitive rates & volume discounts Visit the community FREE notice board at: Call 01622 630330 for a quote, and see how easy it is to get www.downsmail.co.uk your leaflet delivered with the Downs Mail

Maidstone East November 2015 33 News downsmail.co.uk Homes agreed OBJECTIONS from six neighbours and Detling Parish Council failed to New owner ready to stop a plan for two semi-detached homes at The Street. One of the main fears was that the three-storey homes at East Court take over at Kent Life Stables would be out of keeping with the local area. Cllr John Evern- THE award-winning Kent Life community and tourist and marden, of the parish council, told the visitor attraction in Lock Lane, kets and address other needs such planning committee: “The size, style Sandling is poised to go under as education, lifelong learning and and position of the houses combined new management. healthy living.” with the demolition of an interesting “Restrictive” conditions imposed A spokesman for Maidstone old wall neither conserve nor en- by Maidstone Council during its Council said: “We have had an ex- hance the conservation area.” tendering process mean Contin- cellent relationship with Contin- Cllr Nick de Wiggondene, a ward uum, which has managed the park uum, which has operated the site member on the borough council, since 2008, has pulled out of its con- very successfully over the past few said: “These three-storey homes will tract as of November 30. years. We have been through a loom over buildings behind them.” A new company – Hampshire- competitive tendering process for However, the committee granted based Planning Solutions Ltd – the contract to ensure best value for planning permission, claiming there which operates similar attractions money.” were no policy grounds to refuse. in the UK and Europe, was due to The council said Planning Solu- be signed up to manage the park as tions would honour all wedding the Downs Mail went to press. bookings and annual passes, and Driver banned Maidstone Council says no jobs are the attraction would continue to A MOTORIST who admitted drink at risk, with staff being transferred operate as normal, with new in- driving was banned for 20 months to the new operator. traction in the New Forest and The vestment and activities. when he appeared before Mid Kent However, animals and livestock National Brewery Centre, formerly Continuum’s contract ends on Magistrates’ Court. brought in by Continuum to en- the Bass Museum in Burton upon November 30 and the site will be in Clifford Wood (50), of Maidstone hance the experience are in the Trent. a transitional period in preparation Road, Lenham, admitted driving a process of being rehomed, along It also manages the Harry Rams- for the hand-over from November Citroen Xsara in Maidstone Road with some of the leisure attraction’s den’s franchise in Brighton and a 15. on September 6, giving a breath test equipment. A planned November bakery on the Isle of Wight. Kent Life members will be con- of 84mg of alcohol in 100ml of fireworks extravaganza has been A spokesman said: “We under- tacted regarding membership va- breath. The legal limit is 35mg. cancelled. stand the challenges faced by the lidity from November 30 onwards. Wood was banned from driving Planning Solutions Ltd has in- visitor attraction, heritage and Continuum Attractions operates for 20 months and must pay a £110 vested in, developed and managed leisure sectors and how to create seven visitor experiences across the fine, a £150 criminal courts charge, a number of tourism and leisure and cost-effectively promote visitor UK, including The Coronation £85 costs and a £20 victim sur- businesses for 20 years including experiences which are commer- Street Tour and The Canterbury charge. Conkers, a £16 million visitor at- cially viable, meet the needs of the Tales. Town store praised Waterside Park plan Continued from page one amount of sand that would need Cllr Tony Harwood said: “I am to be removed, by leaving the by secret shopper very flattered that my evidence to highest part of the site untouched. A MYSTERY shopper from a trade the Waterside Park inquiry has He said: “We are challenging the magazine has been out and about been singled-out in this way, but a inspector’s decision on principle in Maidstone, awarding points to number of other witnesses includ- while pursuing a more construc- electrical appliance retailers. ing CPRE, Leeds Castle, KCC and tive approach with Maidstone Earning top marks and the title as the local MP also provided com- Council, which says in its emerg- top independent was Simon Burton pelling arguments against permit- ing local plan that there needs to of Home Media in Union Street. ting such a massive and be development at junction 8.” The mystery shopper survey was unsustainable greenfield develop- The council has designated carried in the October issue of ERT, ment proposal.” nearby land, at Woodcut Farm, the electrical news and product in- In parallel to the High Court north of the A20, for warehouses formation magazine. challenge, Mr Yandle said the use in its draft local plan. Roxhill The reviewer’s report described company had “dissected the in- wants to erect 47,752sqm of in- Simon as extremely knowledgeable spector’s decision” to come up dustrial buildings on this land, about his products, adding: “I went with a replacement scheme that which is on part of the site of the in with a fixed idea and Simon “mitigates or totally addresses” Kent International Gateway managed to convince me to buy a the issues raised. freight interchange proposal re- He said: “The inspector didn’t fused on appeal in 2010. more premium product. The store Simon Burton at his store looked great.” say the scheme was without merit Mr Yandle said: “Even with Kig and in her view, the harm out- land allocated for development in The mystery shopper awarded Fremlin Walk, both of which re- weighed the benefits. By dealing the local plan, without the Water- Simon’s sales skills, and store pres- ceived scores of 9/10 and were with issues such as the height of side Park development or a entation top marks, 10 out of 10. jointly commended independents; the roofline and the change of to- slightly smaller development here, Currys PC World on the Ayles- Samsung Boutique in the Royal pography we feel we can reach a an extra 4,000 people will be with- ford Retail Park also earned 10/10 Star Arcade earned 3/5 for sales situation where the benefits out- out work or will need to travel out and the title of winning multiple. skills but 8/10 overall; Richer weigh the perceived harm.” of the area to find it if the council The summary said: “Pam was Sounds in Earl Street was marked Mr Yandle confirmed the com- builds the 18,600 houses it hopes rushed off her feet as the only down on sales skills, earning 8/10 pany had already held talks with to without addressing the employ- member of staff on the mezzanine overall, with Wrights Warehouse in Maidstone Council about a ment issue. level, but she did a great job. The Waterloo Street coming last with smaller developed footprint, cov- “If something smaller and more store looked clean and very tidy.” just 2/5 for sales skills, 3/5 for store ering 12 instead of 30 acres, which palatable is acceptable then we Other stores visited for the presentation and a total score of would allow the company to de- would drop any further expensive Shopfloor feature included 5/10. The summary read: “A greet- liver 60% of the original project, wrangling.” The company has a Sevenoaks Sound and Vision in ing and a little produce advice was but with an 80% reduction in the 25-year option on the land. Week Street and Stormfront in as good as it got at this store.”

34 Maidstone East November 2015 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 Plan issues IN its formal response to the recent Tribute to Cllr Alan Springate local plan consultation, the parish COUNCILLORS haveexpressed great sadness at tion to the work of the parish council and the council’s environment committee the sudden passing of Cllr Alan Springate. Walderslade Woodlands Group for the community raised a number of issues. Chairman Ivor Davies said “We have lost a val- in general, will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are These included a request to have ued colleague of 15 years standing who was a with his wife Sarah.” Beechen Bank, Walderslade champion for the local environment. His contribu- Cllr Springate’s obituary is on page 44. Woods, Cowbeck Wood, Reeds Croft Wood and the open country around Lidsing designated as landscapes of local value; concern Report it for prompt repair about serious overloading of the highway infrastructure within the parish by large developments else- RESIDENTS are encouraged to Residents can directly report an dents to try to report the problem where feeding traffic on to the M20 report potholes, obscured signs, issue on an interactive map on the themselves as often there are no and M2; and the impact on Grove drainage issues and failed street- KCC website where they can im- house numbers. Green of the closure of the Sitting- lights. mediately see whether there has “On the map they can locate ex- bourne Road Park and Ride. KCC no longer has highway in- been a previous report. Residents actly where the issue is. This will spectors and the highway stewards without access to a computer can then be electronically transferred to cover huge areas; so, without resi- call the parish office. the steward’s computer. Without Consultation dents taking on the task, things will Parish clerk Pauline Bowdery ex- residents’ support things will not IN addition to the local plan, the not improve. plained: “It is important for resi- be repaired.” environment committee has re- sponded to a KCC consultation on street lighting and to a highways Gateway fears and transportation survey covering MEMBERS have expressed con- the service provided and the condi- cern over the future of KCC services tion of the highway infrastructure. at Maidstone Gateway. Parish council chairman Ivor KCC opened a 12-week consulta- Davies said: “I would like to thank tion on a proposal to move its serv- councillors for their hard work and ices next year from King Street to the clerk for her excellent briefing other public buildings. papers. KCC says that the Maidstone “With parish council elections Council-owned site, which it shares due in May 2016, we are about to with a number of partner organisa- start a campaign to raise our profile tions such as Citizens Advice and and encourage residents to think Victim Support, does not represent about standing for election. Bollards design fault reported best value for money. “Responding to consultations MEMBERS are disappointed with including off-road bikes and ﬂy-tip- Members fear other locations may such as these plays a vital role in the replacement gate and bollards ping and to protect the safety of not be as accessible for the public representing the community.” installed by KCC at the Lidsing Road volunteers. and that the site may not be sustain- entrance to Boxley Warren, which However, there is a design fault able for the remaining organisations. are intended to help protect the which has been reported to KCC. It was decided to seek more infor- Call 101 wildlife area from anti-social issues They have promised to take action. mation from KCC before submitting THE new PCSO, Matthew Adling- a formal response. The parish coun- ton, was welcomed at his first meet- cil welcomes views from residents ing of Boxley Parish Council. and organisations. The consultation He reminded residents to call 101 Urban extension inquiry closes on December 13 and can be to report non-emergency incidents, PARISH councillors and residents of the Ancient Woodland and the accessed via the KCC website. especially those involving nuisance were at a public inquiry/appeal detrimental impact of adding more motorbikes. If a registration num- hearing on October 13-16 after vehicles to the bad traffic situation. ber can be noted, so much the bet- Stack views Maidtsone Council’s refusal to grant Parish clerk Pauline Bowdery also ter, but a description, date and time THE parish council has sent a num- outline planning permission for 89 gave evidence before the planning will help build a picture. These de- ber of suggestions on Operation homes south of Gleaming Wood inspector made a site visit. Having tails can alternatively be given to Stack to the Kent Association of Drive, Lordswood. closed the inquiry the inspector is the parish office. Local Councils (KALC). Borough Councillor Wendy Hin- now considering his decision. It is Nuisance bikers are firstly given The council suggested that when der presented the views of resi- not understood why distant Tovil a warning. If reported again, fur- Operation Stack is in operation, lor- dents, emphasising the importance was the venue for the inquiry. ther action can be taken, including ries be restricted to the left-hand lane seizure of the bike. of the M20, leaving two lanes for traffic. It also indicated that better Lorry parking issue improved traffic-light management at the Next meeting M2/A229 junctions is needed as, sat- CLLR Wendy Hinder thanked all who had worked with her, the parish coun- THE next meeting of the parish navs suggest this as an alternative cil and KCC to get the experimental trafﬁc order in place to prevent illegal council is at 6pm on Friday, No- route. The council also suggested and anti-social HGV parking at Old Chatham Road, Sandling. vember 6 at the European School of that coastbound lorries exiting from She said the new system had been a success and the residents’ quality Osteopathy. MP Helen Whateley the Dartford Tunnel should be di- of life had greatly improved with no further reports of HGV parking there. will attend. rected via the A2/M2.

Maidstone East November 2015 35 News downsmail.co.uk Town focus Homes plan could put on heritage MAIDSTONE is on a mission to make more of its heritage. KCC pledge to the test Research carried out by the Royal Society of Arts placed the county town 20th out of 326 destinations A PLAN to build another 250 homes along the Sutton Road corridor is for the quality of its heritage – but only in 275th place for activities re- expected to be submitted to Maidstone Council shortly. lating to it. It will be the fifth large housing but Maidstone Council seems intent Council leader Fran Wilson said: development proposed for the area on ignoring residents to pursue a “Considering the importance of the after approval for 600 homes at Lan- housing need that satisfies its bank visitor economy to the borough, gley Park; 186 homes north of Sutton balance, rather than actual demand.” this is a major lost opportunity to Road and 100 homes west of Bicknor Cllr Taylor-Maggio (left) ex- use one of our biggest assets.” Road. All three schemes are now pressed concern not just for Langley, The council’s heritage, tourism under construction. but surrounding parishes such as and leisure department recently In August, Countryside Properties Boughton Monchelsea, Otham and launched its Destination Manage- also hosted an exhibition outlining Sutton Valence, which she said ment Plan – the blueprint for mar- its plan to build 850 homes at Lang- would be “impacted massively” by keting the borough to visitors in the ley Park Farm, south of Sutton Road, the extra housing that would shortly future – and Cllr Wilson said she which has been allocated for hous- come on the market. hoped this was the start of a new ing in Maidstone Council’s draft She added: “It is only as the devel- era of progress. local plan. opments take shape that one can ap- Officers from the RSA are due to The latest plan for Bicknor Green preciate the scale of these estates and visit Maidstone in a few weeks’ – off Gore Court Road, Otham – As reported in Downs Mail last the speed at which they are being time and Cllr Wilson said she comes from Bellway Homes, which month, strategic planner Brendan delivered and the impact they will hoped this too would give the has completed its online public con- Wright said: “Our position as high- have on our already over-subscribed council some ideas as to how it sultation and looks set to submit an ways authority is that no further de- hospital, surgeries and roads. Our could better exploit its heritage as- outline application for 250 homes, velopment beyond that committed services are unable to cope with our sets. even though the draft local plan al- within the planning system can be current population.” locates just 190 for the land. accommodated on these routes.” Bellway Homes says its scheme to The 14-hectare proposal could test Langley Parish Council chairman the north of Bicknor Wood and Beddy-byes KCC’s pledge to object to any more Cheryl Taylor-Maggio said that with south of White Horse Lane, Otham HUNDREDS of people across the sizeable developments along the the population of her parish set to will provide market and affordable area have a couple in Allington to Sutton Road corridor that could im- double, “enough is enough”. homes, with one and two-bedroom thank for a good night’s sleep. pact the A229/A274 Wheatsheaf She said: “We are not Nimbys, we apartments and up to five-bedroom But after 34 years in business, Liz junction south of Maidstone. recognise new homes are needed, homes around a village green. and Chris Gammon are looking forward to taking it easy. The couple, who run the Chris Shed blaze Councillor ‘surﬁng’ in meeting Gammon Bed Centre, will retire as FIREMEN had to use breathing ap- AT least one member of Maidstone committee he chairs. the lease on their shop at Mid Kent paratus as they fought a shed and Council has been caught ordering He said: “At least one member of Shopping Centre in Castle Road fence fire in Otham. online shopping during a meeting, this committee was observed surf- comes to an end in October. The crew, who were called to it has been claimed. ing, shopping and general things White Horse Lane at just before Cllr Clive English issued a warn- inappropriate for this meeting. Read our archived 11am, stayed on the scene for ing after a complaint was made by “We would not want to be chal- nearly an hour damping down the a member of public who watched lenged on a decision through not editions FREE online at blaze on October 6. online a meeting of the planning taking due care during a meeting.” www.downsmail.co.uk Call for views on borough plan THE latest consultation on the Maid- people of Maidstone until 2031, and new housing developments. The council will consider all of the stone Borough Local Plan – which how we will protect our countryside Cllr Burton said: “Everyone will issues raised during the consultation will set out how Maidstone will de- and open spaces. I urge everyone to have a chance to have their say on a with the aim of publishing a full, re- velop up to 2031 – is under way. take part in the consultation.” proposed policy for public open vised version of the local plan for Residents are The objectively-assessed housing spaces, the allocation of specific sites further public consultation early being asked for need for the borough – the number for use as public open space, and the next year. The plan will then be sub- their views on is- of homes needed for the population council’s approach to protecting our mitted to the Secretary of State for sues from poten- from 2011-2031 – is 18,560 additional highly-valued local landscapes.” Communities and Local Govern- tial housing sites homes. Of these, 2,341 have already The consultation document and ment. An independent planning in- and proposed been built, and a further 5,508 are in supporting background material can spector will be appointed by the employment site the pipeline. be found at the website www.maid- Secretary of State to conduct an “ex- locations, to can- For the local plan to be approved stone.gov.uk/consultation. Com- amination in public” towards the didate sites for by the planning inspector, it must ments can be made on the website, end of 2016, before the plan is finally gypsies and trav- show how the borough will meet as or sent to [email protected], or adopted the following year. ellers and the removal of the pro- much of the housing need as possi- Spatial Policy Team, Maidstone Bor- Cllr Burton said: “Once the plan is posed park and ride site at Linton ble, within the borough’s con- ough Council, Maidstone House, in place we will be able to defend Crossroads. A proposal for a plan- straints. Additional housing sites are King Street, Maidstone ME15 6JQ. against inappropriate applications ning policy for care homes is also in- being proposed in the built-up area The deadline for comments is 5pm for further development. It’s impor- cluded. of Maidstone and at some of the bor- on Friday, October 30. tant that we achieve the 2016 dead- Cllr David Burton (pictured), ough’s larger rural villages to help The document will be available to line, otherwise we run the risk of chairman of the strategic planning, meet this need. view at all libraries in the borough, needing to extend the plan period, sustainability and transport commit- The proposed open space policies and at the Gateway on King Street and the possibility of losing control tee, said: “The local plan will show will help make sure that valuable from 9am until 5.30pm on Mondays, of the process to central govern- how we will meet the needs of the open space is delivered as part of and until 4.30pm Tuesday to Friday. ment.”

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Maidstone East November 2015 37 LEARNING FOR LIFE

SIXTH FORM/COLLEGE

WHEN students received their minimum entry requirement for Invicta Grammar School is a further and higher education GCSE results last month, many of students – and those who don’t specialist school for business, students of all ages, as well as them were thrilled and delighted gain sufficient A*-C grades at maths, computing and languages. being a great alternative to school with their clutch of good grades. GCSE generally aren’t allowed to Across town, Maidstone sixth forms. But for some, results day was a stay on for their final two years. Grammar School for Girls has “We have hundreds of part- day of disappointment – and the Fortunately, this is rarely the been a specialist school for science time and full-time courses to panic of what to do next. end of the road. and maths since 2003, while choose from.” When pupils move up from A move into another school Maplesden Noakes specialises in If you decide the world of primary to secondary school, for sixth form, an academic route at business and enterprise and has academia is not for you, colleges many it’s a ‘done deal’ that they college – or a vocational course, strong links with the local also offer a refreshing choice of will carry on their studies into perhaps as part of an business community. options, which can lead to a sixth form. apprenticeship – are all available Many students thrive in a rewarding career, whether it be in The town’s new academies still in Maidstone, while students college atmosphere, which is very business, beauty, engineering or offer this choice but some of the prepared to travel further afield different to school. electronics. grammar schools operate a or into the City might opt for a One advantage of a college over And apprenticeships offer the specialist course in school is that terms tend to start best of both worlds as they allow music, drama, sport or later and be more in line with you to gain new skills AND get the arts. university terms, which gives you paid at the same time! Maidstone is blessed more time to decide precisely An enthusiastic student with a with a wealth of good what you want to do – and then passion for his or her future career schools, however, and apply for a place. can often find this to be the most most of them specialise Even after results day, it’s not fulfilling way forward. in one aspect of too late as only a few of the most Whilst schools naturally put education these days, sought-after courses tend to be great store on GCSE grades, these so it’s wise to ‘shop fully booked. are just one step on the ladder to around’ to find the sixth A spokesman for Mid Kent success. form which best suits College said: “It’s never too late to You’re never too old to learn – your needs. make a decision that will change and it’s never too late, as the Swadelands at Lenham your life for the better. scores of mature students who is renowned for its He added: “MidKent College is attend colleges of further sporting prowess, while now the destination of choice for education will testify!

Is your child due to start school in September 2016? Sixth St Paul’s Infant School Hillary Road, Maidstone, ME14 2BS Form Invites you to attend an open evening Open Morning Tuesday 10th November 6pm - 9pm Talks by Head of Sixth Form at 7pm & 8pm “an exceptional learning experience” - 30 A Level & Pre U courses ([WHQGHGSURMHFWTXDOLʏFDWLRQ "This is a good school." "The secure start in Reception classes helps them to develop good social and physical skills." “Outstanding personal "Pupils achieve well before moving on to their next school." OFSTED Ofsted May 2012 development” Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th New Building Opening 2016 November 2015 Oakwood Park Grammar School 9.30 – 10.30 a.m. Oakwood Park Maidstone Kent If you would like to book a visit please ME16 8AH Contact Mrs Webster on 01622 753322 01622 726683 [email protected] scan for directions E-mail [email protected] www.opgs.org

38 Maidstone East November 2015 LEARNING FOR LIFE

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Maidstone East November 2015 39 News downsmail.co.uk Money heads list of concerns FINANCIAL issues continue to dominate the list of problems for Maidstone residents who seek help from Citizens Advice Bureau. Advice on benefits and tax cred- happy with the service they re- to recruit more. Operating from its base in Bower its topped the list of enquiries in ceived and the main cause of criti- Chief executive Bonny Malhotra Terrace and at Maidstone Gateway, 2014/15, with 25% of clients need- cism was long waiting times for said: “I never cease to be surprised advisers now help those migrating ing help in this area, with a further advice. by the level of commitment given from benefits to Universal Credit. It 19% needing advice on dealing Addressing the annual meeting, by our volunteers in Maidstone. has also become the delivery centre with debt. chairman Sir Michael Buckley said: Colleagues, both paid and unpaid, for PensionWise in Kent and Med- Employment (12%), housing “To some extent, they are the in- are this organisation’s powerhouse way. (11%) and relationships and family evitable consequence of the time re- and events bear witness to the fact Mr Malhotra said: “Often pro- (9%) followed. quired to explore the problems of that even under extreme pressures viding a bespoke service at both The bureau dealt with 7,300 clients and to give them full advice. we have continued to provide an venues has been difficult to man- clients during the year, creating a “I am proud that the bureau has excellent service.” age but volunteers rally to our cry total of 24,893 points of contact, of gone from strength to strength in He said the bureau had suffered of help and give us additional days which almost half (46%) were face the difficult financial climate of the from austerity – cuts in local au- above their duty days.” to face appointments and 25% tele- past few years, but very conscious thority funding and funding for do- The bureau provides outreach phone calls. that the credit for this rests with the mestic abuse, along with support services at Parkwood, Marden and The bureau secured £300,681 for staff and management and my fel- from the legal aid agency and other Headcorn as well as home visits its clients and had a further low trustees.” small funding streams – but a num- and also provides an advice service £334,319 in debts written off. The bureau has 31 paid staff and ber of new opportunities had in Maidstone jail for prisoners, Almost all clients (95%) were 76 volunteers, but is always looking opened up. their families and prison staff. Apple pie quiz Head moves to support Town centre for Mencap road changes MAIDSTONE Mencap members school facing inspection WORK is to start on improving traffic flows in the centre of Maid- will be holding their annual apple THE principal of Holmesdale ingly looking at leadership capacity stone. pie quiz on Saturday, November Techology College, Snodland, has in schools to identify existing lead- Preliminary work for the Bridges 14 at Cobtree Hall, School Lane been seconded to Swadelands ers to support schools that might be Gyratory Improvement Scheme (off Willington Street), Maidstone. School, Lenham for six months. struggling. (BGIS) will get underway in the The event takes its name from a Julia Camp- “The local authority has looked at new year, with construction work tradition that the quizmaster asks bell will work the structure within our Malling starting in May, 2016. for a slice of apple pie and cream with the senior Holmesdale Federation and is aware The £5.74m scheme will see the as his fee, and the sweet is also team at the sec- that at principal level, due to the ex- provided to participants. ondary school istence of the executive principal, construction of two northbound Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm as it prepares there is capacity. lanes on the east side of the river, and tickets are £6 each which infor an Ofsted “They have identified a particular which will allow traffic heading cludes the apple pie. Teams are of inspection. school in need of support and given north towards the M20 to avoid six to eight people. With Mrs the nature of the issues within the having to cross both bridges. Contact Rita on 07790 643218. Campbell as school and my skillset and experi- The scheme is expected to in- head, Holmes- ence they have requested that I go to crease the capacity of the junction dale was awarded a grade 2 at its in- work in the school.” by 10-20% at peak times. Church concert spection last year and rated “good” Holmesdale’s executive principal The granite paving of the Lower A CHRISTMAS concert at Ul- in all categories. The Ofsted report Patrick Hannaway, who will take High Street is to be extended at its combe church will raise funds for praised her for being “relentless in over the head teacher role in Mrs junction with Bishop’s Way to cre- work to take the church off English her successful drive to improve Campbell’s absence, said: “The ate a pedestrian-friendly street Heritage’s “at risk” register. teaching and raise standards”. school needed a package of support. scene with improved crossing The UK Paper Band will perform Swadelands was last inspected by They are getting ready for Ofsted points. from 7pm on Saturday, November Ofsted in 2012 when the 706-pupil and Mrs Campbell is very skilled The Maidstone Joint Transport- 14, in aid of The Friends of Ul- school, headed by Richard Badde- and experienced.” ation Board asked project manager combe Church, which aims to raise ley, was rated as good overall. A KCC spokesman said Mrs Russell Boorman to consider the £170,000 to restore the church roof. In a letter to Holmesdale parents, Campbell (pictured) was being sec- creation of a dedicated cycle lane Tickets are £10 from Molly Poul- Mrs Campbell, previously head of onded to Swadelands until Easter, on St Peters Bridge and to ensure ter on 01622 842988 or Rosemary school at Astor of Hever, Maidstone, adding: “She will be working with that flood prevention measures Davis on 01622 844485. said: “The local authority is increas- the senior management team.” were put in place. PCSOs rewarded for bravery in gun incident TWO community support officers farm yielded about £100,000 a year, class A drug with intent to supply. who seized a firearm from a man in was jailed for three years. West Division commander Chief Headcorn were among 60 police of- Also honoured was detention offi- Superintendent Steve Corbishley ficers, civilian staff and members of cer Danielle Finlay, based at Maid- said: “Kent Police officers are called the public to receive awards at the stone police station, who was to difficult and potentially danger- West Division area commander’s recognised for her outstanding ob- ous situations every day, and risk ceremony. servation skills after finding a quan- their own safety to protect the pub- Maidstone PCSOs Dave Rowley tity of the class A drug fentanyl lic. and John Boyd wrestled the gun hidden in a secret pocket within a “It is right they get the recognition from the 64-year-old man, who had also recognised. newspaper, which a woman had they deserve, and I am very proud of reported nuisance youths near his Sergeant Joe Breen and PC James tried to smuggle in while visiting a everything they do. I would also like home. They are pictured with mayor O’Gorman seized cannabis worth detainee. to congratulate those members of Cllr Daniel Moriarty. £50,000 and arrested the man re- Victoria Hicks (38), of Sunningdale the public who showed tremendous Two officers who discovered a sponsible in October 2014. Offender Court, Maidstone, was jailed for 21 courage in difficult situations, whose cannabis farm in East Peckham were David Hill, who later admitted the months after admitting possessing a awards are also well-deserved.”

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Maidstone East November 2015 41 downsmail.co.uk Comment Kig victory is no guarantee I BELIEVE campaigners against devel- tions every few miles. opment are wrong to consider Maidstone’s I believe too that M20 Junction 8 is the right great victory against the Kent International MailMarks place for significant business development to Gateway (Kig) proposal is now a defensive DENNIS FOWLE President boost Maidstone’s economy. The attraction to wig against new and very different planning [email protected] businesses with such easy access to the M20 proposals for parts of that land. for the Channel ports and linked motorway Maidstone Council spent about £1.7m de- infrastructure to the rest of Britain is undeni- fending the borough from a proposal which Each new application must now be consid- able. Workforces will value the M20 access. included a strategic rail freight interchange ered on its individual merits and a significant But I am not comfortable that the Woodcut (up to 13 freight trains a day) with massive factor will be the Len Valley Landscape of Farm site between the M20 and A20 between warehousing and other commercial develop- Local Value which runs from Bearsted, south Bearsted and Hollingbourne is preferable to ment running for miles close to the M20 from of the M20 to Lenham, as now included in the the more hidden Waterside Park site south of Hollingbourne to Bearsted. draft local plan. But this landscape area is not the A20. That debate has not ended. Most of the money was spent fighting the a total ban on developments and cases can be long and vigorous appeal against its planning made for it to be overridden. Caring for the aged decision to reject the Axa application. Local An often expressed fear is that development I become very concerned about care for parishes teamed up well and financed their in this area will see Bearsted merge with our aged sick. Increasingly they block vital own separate battle against Kig. Hollingbourne and then through to Harriet- beds in our hospitals because of problems ac- Maidstone rejoiced five years ago when the sham and Lenham. This is a nightmare sce- commodating them. inspector threw out the massive and un- nario almost on a parallel with Kig. The hospital trust is highly critical of social sightly development for 290 acres, so damag- I believe this is scaremongering and there services management and had threatened to ing to this rural area and the borough as a are no intentions for this. The landscaping invoice the service and KCC for costs. whole. designation will play a major role in this. Now we hear of KCC making further cut- Maidstone Council, whose vital work on However, Maidstone Council faces massive backs and closing some of its homes. evolving Maidstone’s local plan was seriously challenges meeting Government demands for How many can afford to fund their own delayed, won scant praise for the way it new housing, especially with our infrastruc- residential or nursing home care? A friend fronted this success. And nowadays it receives ture difficulties, and it must look at the at- who moved in to a home is having to find the brickbats when it handles new, unrelated tractive transport advantages of this area – the best part of £40,000 a year. As our population planning applications for parts of the land. M20, A20 and the mainline rail link with sta- ages this problem will grow.

Sacrifice remembered Support junior doctors these cynical proposals. The great British public needs to lobby Dear Sir – In a world which once again is in Dear Sir – As senior doctors who have MPs and show support for their doctors. turmoil and unrest we should, at the 100th worked in Kent for many years, we write to Everyone will need their services one day. anniversary of her death, pause and reflect express our grave concern about the Dr Paul Hobday, Dr Karen Poerton, Dr on the life and work of nurse Edith Cavell. Government’s intention to impose a Ali Abbas, Dr K Bala, Dr Jonathan We should remember the heroic sacrifice, damaging and dangerous working contract Goodman, Dr Roger Hart, Dr David Tod, her heroism, her fortitude and her on our junior colleagues. Dr Carol Jones, Dr Akbar Soorma, Dr Amit humanity in her work and life. She, with So-called “junior” doctors make up all Saha, Dr S. Renkema, Dr R Blundell, Dr M many others, fought the typhoid epidemic doctors from every specialty in hospitals, Lile, Dr M Ironmonger, Dr J Dennison, Dr that came to Maidstone in the summer of except consultants, and are the backbone of P Hanrath, Dr G Singh, Dr S Jones, Dr P 1897. medical care. Without them there would be Gildeh, Dr P Jones, Dr T Cantor, Dr M In 1915 she again rose to the challenge no expert healthcare for patients and the South, Dr M Heber, Dr G Hagan, Dr H and worked tirelessly for the wounded service would be paralysed. Terrell, Dr A Jones, Dr M Moss, Dr N Pile from all sides, during what is now known Sadly, Government ministers do not as the Great War (World War I) and paid seem to recognise this. If they did, they for her duty with her life. would not be trying to force on these Preserve village green At a memorial service in London it was dedicated doctors’ “normal” working said: ” The crowning horror of the hours of 7am-10pm six days a week with Dear Sir – I was astonished to read in the treatment of womanhood is the atrocious the added insult of a 30% pay cut. In the Downs Mail (October) that the new murder of this woman, who lived to same shameful package, juniors entering Bearsted Parish Council “liked the idea, alleviate suffering and who only did what general practice could earn up to 40% less. particularly if it were to become an annual any one of us would have done in saving This is not only unjust, but idiotic in view event” of 250 bikers taking over Bearsted the lives of refugees who sought shelter of of the lack of GPs. Safeguards against Green on a Sunday. a home.” working dangerous hours are to be The bumper motorbike rally would raise As we commemorate the anniversary of removed and maternity pay affected. major issues of noise disturbance (multiply her death we should remember her We were told bankers needed their high the decibels of one motorbike by 250), supreme sacrifice and how she has set the pay and bonuses to stop them leaving the damage to the green and displacement of world an example of how we should bear country. Too many junior doctors are locals wishing to use it. ourselves in a crisis. already leaving the UK because of Concerns are growing that the current We should remember and reflect on her Government policies towards the NHS, parish council sees Bearsted Green as an words given in the few hours before her and this contract will accelerate the exodus. “asset” to be hired out to all-comers for execution. Double standards indeed. commercial gain. “Patriotism is not enough – I must have We support junior doctors fully in their The green is a confined space no hatred or bierness towards anyone.“ fight to retain safe working conditions. surrounded by period houses. First and Cllr David Picke, Bower Street, Tired doctors make mistakes. Patients and foremost it is a traditional, quintessential, Maidstone the NHS will undoubtedly be put at risk by historic village green. Secondly, it is a 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

42 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk

residential area. ask that children walk to and from school, Brian, I would like to reassure you that the Comment It is not Mote Park, which has the space rather than be taken by car? I know of story you refer to in last month’s edition – to absorb large events. Nor is it a municipal several parents who live within a few “Bikers welcome pump track plan” – states sports pitch, nor a bikers’ paradise. hundred yards of their children’s school, that the pump track is only a request at this I would argue it is the most precious who take them by car. Not only does it add stage. As a possible location, Mote Park was a aesthetic asset Bearsted has left. to the traffic on the roads, but then they mere suggestion; no proposal has been Our councillors, therefore, have a cause obstruction to traffic by inconsiderate submied. weighty responsibility, as its temporary parking as near as possible to the school. That said, I share your concerns about the caretakers, to protect it and not allow its Walking would also have some health creeping urbanisation of Mote Park. inappropriate exploitation. benefits. In August, Maidstone Council gave a There is a very real danger in allowing If KCC and Maidstone Council cannot premises licence to Social Events Worldwide to unsuitable larger scale events, especially afford to spend money on the host eight major events in a 12-month period. from outside interests and even under the infrastructure, what else can be done to This is in addition to other events, such as auspices of charity, of damaging the most reduce traffic in the town? Ramblin’ Man, which aracted 20,000 people unique and treasured part of Bearsted: its I would suggest two measures, used to the park at the end of July and may return very heart. together. First would be a peak in 2016 – finances permiing. A Preece, Bearsted Green hour/school time congestion charge and Understandably, this provides valuable the second would be an improvement in income to the council, but a nice way to pay public transport. The first would not be back the many local park users would be to Election correction popular, but trying to persuade people out keep the existing open space largely intact at Dear Sir – May I please add a correction to of their cars does not seem to work. There all other times. your article “Lib Dems retain influence” in needs to be an alternative, with the Response by Stephen June’s edition of the Downs Mail. congestion charge being used to help pay This suggests that Eddie Powell was for the cost of seing it up and to subsidise prevented from defending his seat in bus services to outlying areas. No to Woodcut Farm plan Harrietsham and Lenham in view of his If we cannot provide more road space CPRE Kent is dismayed and horrified by success last year. outside the town for through traffic, we the report to the Strategic Planning, Eddie, however, advised us that he need to reduce the level of traffic trying to Sustainability and Transport Commiee preferred to devote all of his energies to use what is there now. In that respect, it is promoting Woodcut Farm as an contesting the parliamentary seat in just as important to consider the health of employment site (agenda item 85 – Maidstone, which would take up all of his those who live in the town, particularly appendix B). time. towards its centre, who have to breathe in Our dismay is exacerbated by the fact In view of this, Mike Williams, who unhealthy levels of traffic fumes three that it appears to have been accepted by stood alongside Eddie in last year’s local times a day during the working week. the commiee. The officer report states: election, agreed to stand again this year in David Hackett, Park Way, Maidstone “There is a unique opportunity in the Harrietsham and Lenham. Like Eddie, borough to provide a prestigious business Mike also lives in Harrietsham and has park at junction 8 of M20…” been active in local politics, is a member of Leave Mote Park alone CPRE Kent disagrees entirely. Harrietsham against Reckless Dear Sir – I read with some abhorrence that Woodcut Farm is just a field (although Development and a parish councillor. a pump track is being proposed, possibly sub-divided) in an uninterrupted length of I’ve spoken to Eddie Powell and he for Mote Park. agricultural land south of the M20 running advises me that he subsequently allowed What? I have been using the park every from Bearsted on past Junction 8 towards our Maidstone branch to nominate him as day for more than 35 years and in that time Harrietsham, a length of more than three the Ukip candidate for Allington ward in have spoken to many people. The topics kilometres. the absence of a beer qualified candidate. that are always first to be spoken about are There is nothing unique about the field, Mike Wardle, branch secretary Ukip building and entertainment areas. except perhaps that it is the most visible Faversham and Mid Kent branch. At the outset we have all said that any area from all viewpoints. housing built in the park would be the thin As for a unique opportunity, does end of the wedge and boy, have we been anybody seriously believe that no other Town at saturation point proved right. development applications would be made Dear Sir – I wonder how long it will take First, the houses built right opposite along this length of agricultural land? those who represent us in local Madginford, then the Audley Retirement This site was part of the Kig application government to recognise that Maidstone Village and now houses proposed for in refused at inquiry, as was the recent reached saturation point years ago, as far and around the cricket club. One begins to Waterside Park application, which was as house building is concerned? wonder where next? Then we read of a further from the AONB boundary. These The existing infrastructure is creaking proposal for a crazy golf and entertainment inquiry results were not mentioned in the everywhere you look. Strains exist on area. And now for a pump track. report. healthcare, education, water and public We just do not understand where the This field is adjacent to the AONB, and services. Unless and until housing council is coming from. Mote Park entices consequent policy restrictions should development is halted while long overdue many thousands of visitors a year and that apply, but this is also barely noted in the aention is given to the infrastructure is fantastic, but the vast majority of visitors report. As it is “undulating”, considerable problems, the town will surely grind to an come to the park for its peace, tranquility remodeling and degradation of the inevitable halt. and walks, we bet. landscape will be required. Traffic problems, particularly in the rush With the housing, pump track, BMX The report ignores many requirements hours and school leaving periods, are track and crazy golf, the park is in danger of the National Planning Policy chronic, with traffic stuck in jams, of becoming like Hastings seafront (that's Framework. It is unsustainable, degrading polluting the atmosphere for those who fine for Hastings, but not a good idea for the highly visible landscape live anywhere near main roads and rat Mote Park). (environmental loss), has no social benefit, runs. We know there are no road So let Audley be the very last housing and questionable economic benefit as a improvements in the pipeline apart from built in the park, scrap the crazy golf idea speculative development. tinkering. as there is no money available. altogether and put the pump track in The need for a prestigious business park For as long as through-traffic, particularly Cobtree, where it will be less obtrusive and should have been met by Eclipse Park. from the south, has no option other than to far less invasive. It could go right at the However that failed to aract suitable go through the town centre, we will be back of Cobtree up against the industrial operations, and eventually a hotel and saddled with the problem. park fencing. This would be a great place retail were allowed. There are ways to alleviate maers. We as hills and hummocks are already in This report is unbalanced, all know that during school holiday place, paths are marked out and few trees unprofessional and naïve, and also raises periods, many traffic problems disappear. would need to be chopped down. the question whether council officers Many schools in the town serve a To the council – please leave Mote Park should be promoting a commercial catchment area which is probably within a basically as it is. operation in this way. one-mile radius of them. Is it too much to Brian Blake, Hayle Road, Maidstone Gary Thomas, CPRE Maidstone branch

Maidstone East November 2015 43 downsmail.co.uk Justin Newi moving to Maidstone, then on to Dover and Shepway’s Plains Avenue, Ashford Road, Obituaries returned to live in Bearsted. Park Wood and Queens Road. FATHER-of-two Justin Newi (38) from Marjorie was mother to Alan. She worked She was born in Lancashire, living in Maidstone died after falling in an accident as a lollipop lady at Tovil School and in a Darwen until her Maidstone-born father while working at Maidstone Studios. secretarial job at Hayle Mill. brought the family to his home town. Chris Facebook tributes expressed sympathies Alan said: “My mother was friendly, had a number of jobs in the area including to Justin’s partner Jemma Webb and his intelligent, energetic and very giving. She office work, spending 17 years in one job sons Ayden (20) and volunteered with the Red Cross for 50 years with a local firm of chartered surveyors. George (17). His including work in the Maidstone area. My Her brother David said: “Chris was friends – many of father got involved in that organisation breezy, fun-loving and liked by everyone. whom knew him as with her. Her love of life extended to her later years Slim – praised his “My mother’s many other activities when she took part in performances by sense of humour and included being a school governor in Spare Parts, a group of singers who love of life. Justin was Madginford, worshipping regularly at performed all over Kent, often for old educated at Senacre Otham Church, being a member of Bearsted people. Technology College Women’s Institute and the local “Chris did this in spite of ill health and worked in a Townswomen’s Guild and helping out with herself. She also spent years performing range of construction Age Concern. and helping at performances of and DIY positions, including fiing “She remained active in these areas long Chandeliers, an amateur dramatic group windows and painting and decorating for into her old age. She was 75 when she who put on productions at the Hazlitt TMB Decorators. accidently broke her leg while carrying Theatre. Justin’s mother Susan said: “Justin could some jam for her “old ladies” at Age “She was a wonderful auntie and really turn his hand to all sorts of jobs and when Concern and she remained active in the Red close to her nieces Karen, Suzanne and he was out of work would often find Cross until she was 85.” Nicola. She was also very close to other himself a job doing DIY or other work on Marjorie – who was widowed in 1996 – members of her family. She lived with our people’s homes. leaves her son, grandchildren Helen and mother until she passed away and was very “He was a happy-go-lucky boy who Robert and great-grandchildren Charlotte caring to her.” made friends everywhere and was really and Freddie. Chris leaves her brother, sister-in-law, sociable. The family have been nieces and all her other family members. overwhelmed by the number of friends who have come forward, he knew lots of Brian Gibbons people we had never met and they all loved Alan Springate being with him. ARTHUR Brian Gibbons (89), who was “He would help anyone and was usually known as Brian, lived in Loose for 30 years THE death has been marked on the website of smiling. He was very special to those who and was previously a resident of Penenden Boxley Parish Council of Cllr Alan Springate loved him; I bought a candle with a poem Heath from 1967 to 1985. (83), who lived in Lordswood. on it which reflects how special he was to Born in Upminster, Essex, Brian trained The council noted: “It is with great me.” as a quantity surveyor sadness that the parish council has to Justin leaves his parents, partner and and spent a announce that Cllr sons. substantial part of his Alan Springate passed working life with away on Wednesday, KCC. His previous October 7. Sid Jenkins appointments “First elected as a included spells with parish councillor in SID Jenkins (90) of Culpeper Close, Bracknell 2000, he served on the Hollingbourne was a well-known and Development environment commit- popular local figure, heavily involved in Corporation and tee, bringing his build- village life. work with a private ing and environment He lived locally for about 60 years, company in Bath. expertise to meetings. seling in the village with his wife and Brian was married to Loe for 53 years “A passionate supporter of wildlife with a working until his mid-80s as a waiter at the and was father to Barbara, Peter and Helen. great love for trees, he and his wife Sarah ‘Sadie’ Mercure Hotel on the Ashford Road and Peter said: “My father was a gentleman in were hard-working Walderslade Woodlands still cycling in the Hollingbourne area until the old-fashioned sense of the word. He Group volunteers. As one of the early members weeks before his death. was reserved, polite and cared about doing of the group, he worked hard to ensure Walder- Much of Sid’s working life was spent at things properly. slade Woods became a much-loved and re- sea in the merchant navy and then aboard “He was also active in local life. He was a spected wildlife habitat with village green passenger ships. member of Maidstone Sailing Club from status.” Locally, Sid was known for running the 1971 to 1989, serving as secretary for three Alan and Sadie lived in a house he had built coconut shy at Hollingbourne’s annual years. He was active in the Loose Amenities about 50 years ago and his passion for local con- village fete for about 30 years and a Association and was a church warden in cerns led him to be active outside the Boxley and collection has been organised to plant a tree Loose from 1990 to 1994, where he used his Lordswood area. in his memory. Friends have spoken about professional skills to help with the re- Alan was also involved in campaigns and ac- how well known Sid was locally, especially roofing of the church. tivities for his beloved environmental causes in since he was a frequent sight in the local “He loved walking and he and my the Medway area. area on his bicycle. mother had covered lots of local footpaths. Parish council clerk Pauline Bowdery said: He also travelled abroad and to Scotland “Alan was a dedicated servant of the council and and the Lake District. will be remembered for his work. At meetings Marjorie Grosse “He was very loving and close to all his he was always the most immaculately dressed.” MARJORIE Grosse (90) lived in Bramley family.” Alan leaves his wife and his many friends. Crescent, Bearsted from 1990 to 2012. Brian, who was widowed in 2003, leaves Before that she lived in The Landway and children Barbara and Peter; daughter Helen in Old Tovil Road. pre-deceased him. He also leaves The Stone Shop Born Marjorie Bignall in Clapham, granddaughters Michelle and Natalie and Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, London, she was educated in London and great-grandchildren Louis and Grace. lettered and installed anywhere. began work as a typist with the South Inscriptions added to existing memorials Metropolitan Gas Company. It was there that she met husband of 51 years Doug. Christine Watson Renovations and memorial cleaning Marjorie and Doug moved with his work CHRISTINE “Chris” Watson (69) lived in and lived in Walton-on-Thames before Barming from 1972. Before that she lived in The Stone Shop Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. For obituaries call Neil Nixon on 01622 630422 or email [email protected] 01622 726633

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Maidstone East November 2015 45 News downsmail.co.uk Making the river work for town DRAGON-BOAT racing, regattas and rowing could spearhead a push to put Maidstone’s stretch of the River Medway on the map. The new destination manage- clude signs to the entrance points to ment plan for Maidstone aims to the river from the town centre, in- focus on strengthening visitor ac- vestment in footpaths with signs tivities on or close to the river, par- indicating distances to key points, ticularly near All Saints’ Church, at greater accessibility for cyclists, in- Lockmeadow and at Cobtree. vestment in moorings and parking Invicta Rowing Club and other for river visitors. river users will be asked to get in- It also wants to explore the possi- volved with Maidstone Council, bility of providing camping cabins the Medway Valley Partnership or luxury camping huts to facilitate and business owners to create a long-distance walking, canoeing programme of tourist-friendly and rowing. river-based activities such as row- Tony Monk, from Coxheath, who ing events, regattas, dragon-boat Maidstone Council and KCC seem responsibility. convened a meeting with Mrs racing and a festival of lights. to have very little interest in, de- A new River Medway Alliance Grant to discuss some of the con- The plan is music to the ears of a spite using pictures of the river in has been formed and Mr Smurth- cerns about the river, said: “If the number of local groups, including much of their literature. waite said: “Following the alliance works go ahead it will, after many the Medway River Users’ Associa- “The river is such a beautiful meeting later this month, we hope years, be a positive and very excit- tion (MRUA), which has been cam- asset and it is dramatically under- to be in a position to put forward ing step forward for Maidstone. paigning for greater use of the river used and under-resourced.” some sort of action plan for im- “Much of the riverside of Maid- for many years. The MRUA is already working provement, and will make public stone’s stretch of the Medway has, MRUA chairman Mark Smurth- with the Environment Agency and all the information regarding this.” in my opinion, been spoilt by de- waite said: “It is very encouraging other official bodies to try to im- In the meantime, the council is velopment, but there are some to see so many people in support of prove the condition of the river and proposing a programme of en- beautiful stretches and the town improving Maidstone and more surrounding areas and, with the hancements and improvements to has some superb architecture dat- importantly the river. This is a very support of MP Helen Grant, is in make the river more accessible and ing back to the 13th century along much under-used commodity that the process of identifying areas of appealing to visitors. This will in- with its varied and rich history.” Trader warning THE onset of bad winter weather has brought a rise in rogue traders. Pupils step out with new skills Maidstone Neighbourhood PUPILS from the Cornwallis Acad- Watch is urging residents, espe- emy in Maidstone have successfully cially the elderly, to be wary of any- completed a programme designed one knocking on doors looking for to explore confidence, self-aware- work. A spokesman said: “Rogue ness and motivation. traders are opportunists who knock The Stepping Out programme de- on doors hoping to catch people off veloped by CXK – a charity designed guard so that they agree to the to help children, young people and work. adults maximise their potential – “They have no intention of doing was delivered over six sessions to en- the work properly, if at all. Do not courage participants to reflect on allow anyone into your home. If their own emotional resilience and From left, Joshua Dodd, Amy Perkins, Aby Gibbins, Courtney Knight, you do not recognise the person at look at strategies for development or your front door, do not answer it.” support. It was funded by KCC coun- Bethany Fryer, Lara Potter, Owen Watson, Jazmin Kane and Caitlin Gabriel Anyone who needs repairs to cillor Gary Cooke's member grant. with Sean Kearns, the chief execu- certificates, Cllr Cooke said: “Just like their property should heed the fol- Cllr Cooke said “I felt a pro- tive of CXK, Stepping Out was born.” a tradesman who, to do his job well, lowing advice: gramme was needed that gave This year, 30 pupils benefited from needs more than one tool in his tool- Shop around before making a young people the initial skills, which the programme (with a further 25 box, you will, through life, build up decision. they could then develop, either in benefiting in 2014). They were different tools to help you cope. This Never pay up front and don't school or on another developmental drawn from Cornwallis Academy, course is one such tool and by com- pay by cash. programme such as the National New Line Learning Academy and pleting it you have given yourself Get at least three quotes from Citizen Service. After conversations Swadelands School. Presenting the every chance of future success.” reputable businesses. A249 collision Children’s bikes banned at castle EMERGENCY services were LEEDS Castle has banned children’s ever, recent incidents and accidents grounds, a spokesman said: “We called to a collision between an bikes and scooters from its grounds involving scooters and bikes, as well take the point about the distance, but HGV and a van on the A249 at amid safety concerns. as the disturbance caused to others, we have found that many children Stockbury. The move, stopping the use of all means that such wheel-based toys, use the main drive to scoot or ride, Firefighters stabilised a vehicle wheel-based toys, scooters and can no longer be accepted.” which puts them in direct line with a and assisted ambulance crews with bikes, was described by castle staff It recognises the decision will not very busy land train route. This, we two male casualties before helping as a reluctant one. be popular among families, adding: feel, can no longer be allowed to con- to make the area safe. While they would not be drawn “We know children will be disap- tinue as nothing is worth putting a on any particular incidents, a state- pointed not to be able to use their child’s safety at risk in this way. The House blaze ment from the castle said: “The cas- wheeled toys in the grounds. But, alternative pathway routes are also KENT Fire and Rescue were called tle has traditionally, and perhaps the safety of all our visitors is some- unsuitable for the increased traffic to a fire at a house in Grafty Green. uniquely among large estates, wel- thing we would never compromise.” throughout the year.” Four fire engines and a bulk comed any activities that make a When asked about the distance Controlled tricycles pushed by water carrier attended, and fire- visit enjoyable and special. How- from the car parks to the play- adults will still be welcome. fighters used breathing apparatus to tackle the blaze

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Maidstone East November 2015 47 News downsmail.co.uk Veteran guest at centenary service A BLIND war veteran from Bearsted has taken part in a centenary service at Westminster Abbey. Pete Bradshaw (80) and his wife Mr Bradshaw started to lose his my independence. The Brighton Ann were among 1,800 veterans, sight in 2001 and was later diag- centre feels like home and everyone staff and supporters of Blind Veter- nosed with age-related macular de- there has been such a help. ans UK to mark the military charity’s generation. He started receiving “I’ve been to Westminster Abbey 100 years of service and support to help and support from Blind Veter- before, but this was the first time I blind and vision-impaired ex-ser- ans UK in 2005. have attended a service. My wife vicemen and women. He said: “The worst thing about and I were excited to be part of the The charity, formerly known as St losing most of my sight was having celebrations. We thought it was a Dunstan’s, was founded in 1915 to to give up driving. That really came moving service, nicely conducted support soldiers blinded in World as a shock.” and the music was incredible. War I. The organisation has gone on Mr Bradshaw has received train- “The reading by {EastEnders ac- to help more than 35,000 blind vet- ing and equipment from Blind Vet- tress} Barbara Windsor was special erans and their families, spanning Veteran Pete Bradshaw and his wife erans UK to help him live and the day was memorable.” World War II to recent conflicts in- Ann at Westminster Abbey independently with sight loss, in- The service of thanksgiving was cluding Iraq and Afghanistan. Bahrain and Christmas Island. He cluding magnifying aids and tools conducted by the Dean of Westmin- Mr Bradshaw joined the Royal Air left the RAF as a sergeant after 25 for woodturning. ster, the Very Reverend Dr John Force in 1950, when he was just 15, years of service. He is also part of the Blind Veter- Hall, and sung by the Choir of West- and served as a telegraphist in the 90 He worked as a carpenter for a ans UK bowling team that goes to minster Abbey. Signals group. time before taking up a role in com- the charity’s Brighton centre twice a There was also a performance He worked in different areas from munications for the Home Office. He year for competitions. from Welsh soprano Gwawr Ed- intelligence to air traffic control, later worked for Kent Police in the He said: “Blind Veterans UK has wards and a reading from David serving in Germany, Singapore, criminal records office. been great. It helped give me back Dimbleby. Councillor to Call for lorry parks for Surprise at head choir truckers to take breaks ban on dogs MAIDSTONE Councillor David KENT County Council leader Paul Committee chairman David Bur- at park cafe Pickett has been appointed Carter has called on the Govern- ton said villagers in and around president of Maidstone Choral ment to create a network of na- Marden experienced similar prob- FRUSTRATION over a ban on dogs Union. tional lorry parks to prevent lems from lorries which were at Cobtree Park’s café has been ex- Cllr Pickett comes from a residents being blighted by HGVs forced to park up for the night. pressed by those who believe Maid- musical family and his love of which park up overnight. Foreign hauliers have been stone Council is missing a trick by singing started when he was 10, In an angry outburst at the Maid- charged to use UK roads since making the diner out of bounds to at the Royal stone Joint Transportation Board, April 2014. Cllr Carter said: “It is hounds. Naval School the county council leader called on time the treasury spent some of the One owner, from Stockbury, was in Malta. Highways England to spend some money it charges foreign lorries to stunned to find that after a walk in When he of the levy it receives from foreign use our roads – and spend it in the park with her dog her pet was was 16 he lorry companies to provide ade- Kent. banned from the diner, which was asked to quate parking facilities for the “These drivers have nowhere else meant her and her husband re- stage- trucks. to go when their tachograph runs turned home for lunch. manage a Residents in Sandling have been out. And police will not take en- Sue Sellens said: “We’d had a school blighted for years by HGV drivers forcement action if they have lovely time at the park, which looks production parking overnight in a layby on nowhere else to go – and there is brilliant. We had a great walk of The Old Chatham Road, leaving litter nowhere to go! It is time Highways around and were ready for a cup of Pirates of Penzance. and human waste in the verges and England funded lorry parks across tea and a bite to eat. So, we were sur- Although no longer a singing gardens of neighbouring proper- the country, close to motorway net- prised to learn from other pet walk- member of Maidstone Choral ties. works.” ers that the council has imposed a Union, Cllr Pickett sang with the ban on dogs in the café. choir for more than 10 years, “It seems it is shooting itself in the performing regularly in Layby changes to remain foot by opening a new café and then Maidstone and joining the banning one of its key user groups.” choir’s European tours. He was THE Joint Transportation Board magnet for fly-tippers, with televi- A designated area is available out- chairman from 2004 to 2008 has agreed to make permanent a se- sions being dumped alongside bot- side for smokers. and still supports the choir in ries of temporary measures brought tles of urine. A spokesman for Maidstone many ways. in six months ago to prevent anti- Work will now be undertaken to Council said: “The cafe has a five- His ambition is to see a funded social behaviour by lorry drivers improve the path which is shared star food hygiene rating and does arts centre in Maidstone for the parking in Old Chatham Road, by pedestrians, horse riders and cy- not allow dogs inside, except guide use of every ﬁeld of performing Sandling. clists, which bypasses the layby, as dogs. We will be adding new tie- arts in the town. The board heard there were still this is unfit for use in its present points outside so that owners can He said: “I want to help some issues caused by overnight state. leave their dogs while they enjoy preserve and nurture the legacy parking in the layby close to Blue- As the path is part of a national their refreshments in cafe. There are of the choir and endeavour to bells estate, but the traffic manage- cycle route, KCC is confident of re- lots benches outside where anyone help increase local audiences’ ment bollards had been a success. ceiving funding so the work can can enjoy a drink or a meal.” interest in live music and great Residents have complained for proceed. Professional dog walker Tracy classical works, with emphasis on years about the constant noise from Cllr Wendy Hinder said: “It is not Hawkes, from Snodland, said: “Dog attracting young people to MCU refrigerated lorries and waste being perfect, but it has resolved a lot of thefts are so common there is no events.” dumped in the hedgerows. the problems. The layby is rela- way I would leave my dog tied up Resident Barry Stevens told the tively free from litter and is no outside. For hygiene’s sake a sepa- meeting he had found toilet tissue longer being used as a toilet. Any rate area could be created and if top- For more local news in his garden where his four-year- return to its previous state would end restaurants up and down the www.downsmail.co.uk old child played, while Doris Even- have been a retrograde step and country can do it, I see no reason den said the layby had become a disastrous for the residents.” why the council can’t either.”

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52 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk Classiﬁed Ironing Services Locksmith Painting & Decorating continued

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Maidstone East November 2015 53 Classiﬁed downsmail.co.uk Plumbing & Heating continued Skip Hire

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54 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk Classiﬁed

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Maidstone East November 2015 55 Recruitment On the Road

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56 Maidstone East November 2015 On the Road

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Maidstone East November 2015 57 downsmail.co.uk

sports ﬁeld, he located the youth, who was exercising eight to 12 dogs at a time. This

aihCouncils Parish Bredhurst issued with a section 59 notice. The PCSO was discussed and it was agreed that the Police briefing Matthew Adlington had also spoke to the parents who were advised wood was a public open space and no taken over as PCSO for Bredhurst. Two that should this person come to the police’s further action could be taken. crimes were reported during the previous aention again his bike could be scrapped. Whippets Bags of rubbish were being left at month – an affray at The Bell and attempted A police contact point would be coming to the rubbish bins in Hockers Lane by people burglary at a dwelling in Dunn Street. Kingswood. Operation Innovate, where organising the whippet racing in Detling. Woodland clearance A letter had been sent numerous police officers move into one The clerk would liaise with the landowner to owners of land behind Green Court about location at the same time, would also be about this. woodland clearance. Councillors had met coming to Kingswood. Highways The chairman circulated plans with the landowners and a follow-up letter Sports field The memorial bench had been for alterations and signs at the junction of would be sent regarding an ecology survey. erected. However, permission to erect a the A249. He stated that any options would Co-opted David Hales was co-opted onto plaque with the previously agreed wording be subject to a public consultation period. the parish council. There were still vacancies and to plant some bulbs around the seat The proposals were to place signs through- and anyone interested should contact the area was now being sought. Councillors out the village and at the top of junction clerk on [email protected]. agreed the plaque could be erected subject with the A249 for access only. This would Equine crossing The location of the signage to the agreement of the other family need a in Dunn Street Road had been agreed with member. However, they felt that the traffic prohibition order to change the signs. Kent Highway Services – near The Nursery planting of bulbs would impinge on Two options put forward by Kent Highways sign and before the bend on the approach to maintenance and therefore did not want were considered by members. KCC Cllr the village. them to be planted. The dismantling of the Jenny Whittle could part fund the scheme Safety concerns The vice-chairman Cllr Levercrest play area and the installation of and had asked if the parish council could Nichola Carr had met with Kent Highway the new play equipment was scheduled for put some finance towards it. It was therefore Services and discussed problems during the week commencing October 5, with the agreed in principle that the parish council recent road closures caused by cars trying to new fencing due to be installed in the preferred option one and would consider a access Dunn Street Road from The Cut, following week. The quote received for the contribution towards the costs. This would which is a blind junction. They stated it was erection of a column which would have an exclude the consultation costs. a health and safety issue and proposed three electricity supply enabling the use of CCTV Scragged Oak Road The junction was still options – a mirror on the far side of the road cameras was very reasonable. Councillors being looked into by Kent Highway opposite The Cut, close the road, or intro- requested CCTV cameras to be an agenda Services. Cllr Whittle would be asked for a duce a one-way system. Councillors voted item at the next meeting. progress report. for a one-way system. The clerk would in- Defibrillator The clerk had spoken to the White lines Cllr Kennard raised concerns form residents in The Cut and ask for their owner of the village shop in Charlesford regarding the white lining in The Street. comments. KHS would apply for possible Avenue who was happy to have a These needed to be repainted as some vehi- funding for the work. defibrillator installed at the front of the shop cles were using all of the road to turn into Drains Several drains were blocked in as it was for the community’s benefit. Hockers Lane and this was dangerous. Cllr Hurstwood Road, near to St Peter’s. The Having made enquiries it appeared that the Housden would liaise with Cllr Whittle on chairman Cllr Vanessa Jones was liaising parish council was one of very few that did this. with KHS which had stated it would be not have access to a defibrillator. It was Horish Wood Cllr Evernden spoke regard- cleared in 28 days. agreed that the parish council should ing the reinstatement of the woodland by Tree audit Maidstone Council was ap- finance the supply and installation of a South East Water and was currently negoti- proached for more tree preservation orders defibrillator and the clerk was requested to ating timescales with the contractor. to be granted but would only act if there obtain costs. Old School playing field John Monk had was evidence of a specific threat to particu- Speed Watch The Speed Watch co-ordinator not progressed the wooden goalposts as the lar trees. A quote was being sought for a full at Ulcombe had suggested that the two children were using cones instead. tree audit in the village. parishes combine in an application for Monks Meadow It was requested that the Dog waste Dog waste bins were scheduled funding of equipment. Volunteers would be manhole cover at the entrance of Monks for emptying on Wednesdays. Residents trained by Kent Police, who would also have Meadow be changed to a solid cover. should notify the clerk if bins were not emp- to approve the routes to be monitored. The Village community shop The steering com- tied on time. It was suggested that Maid- clerk had emailed this information via the mittee had held weekly meetings. Three stone Council be requested to parish contact list but only one person had sites were being considered and start-up repaint/replace the general waste bins to in- expressed an interest and two councillors costs were being investigated. dicate dog waste may be placed in any bin had agreed to participate occasionally. More as the authority collects dog waste alongside volunteers would be needed. general waste. Downswood Broadband A super-fast broadband connec- tion had been installed and was available in Detling Public forum Grave concerns were raised some parts of the village. Availability could regarding the recent closure of the Spires be checked on www.DSLchecker.bt.com. Bins Rubbish bins in the parish were still Medical Centre. not being emptied by the borough council. Police report There had been a theft from a The clerk would liaise with Maidstone vehicle in Gorham Drive, but no anti-social Broomfield and Kingswood Council and ward Cllr Nick de Wiggondene behaviour calls. An incident in Mallards Co-option Annee Friend had expressed an to resolve this. open space had been a case of mistaken interest in becoming a parish councillor Ash dieback John Monk reported that the identity. PCSO Timon Gurr said that most of having aended three parish council infected trees had now been removed from the youths who gathered in the car park be- meetings. She was co-opted onto the Monks Meadow. hind the shops were “normally very keen council. Declaration Cllr Preston signed her declara- not to cause any trouble” and tended to use Borough report Borough ward Cllr Gill Fort tion of acceptance of office and took her the area as a meeting place. said Jon Lawrence, Maidstone Council place at the council table. Vacancy Paul Eady was co-opted to fill the planning officer, had reported to her that the Vacancy No applications had been received vacancy on the parish council. Oaklands, Gravelly Boom Road, for the parish councillor vacancy and it was County report KCC Cllr Gary Cooke was Kingswood planning application, which agreed that this should be advertised in the pleased that it proved possible to keep the was 18 months old, was due to be Detling News until the vacancy was filled. bus service going. The Willington Street determined by Maidstone Council. Borough report Cllr de Wiggondene re- works were completed early and the Policing Three crimes had been reported: ported that there were no large planning ap- entrance to Deringwood Drive had been burglary in Elder Close, criminal damage in plications in the Detling area at present. greatly improved. Some road markings had Cayser Drive, and theft by finding in Public forum A resident spoke regarding been reinstated, others would follow. Chartway Street. Nuisance youths had been the overgrown vegetation along Princes Spires Medical Centre The closure of the reported in Cayser Drive. PCSO Thomas Way at 8 The Street. The clerk was asked to centre was discussed. Concerns were reiter- Maybank also reported that, having been liaise with Kent Highway Services on this. A ated including the difficulty in changing to a given a part of a registration number of a resident stated that Horish Wood was now new surgery, the lack of public transport youth suspected of causing problems at the being used by professional dog walkers, and the hilly terrain. A public meeting was

58 Maidstone East November 2015 downsmail.co.uk being arranged. issue in case the contractors came to Harriet- from a lottery grant. This was subject to aihCouncils Parish Speed survey update The results appeared sham. Their sales practices did not comply reaching an agreement with the Village Hall to strengthen the need for a Leeds/Langley with trading standards as residents were not Trust over the use/hire of the studio and also relief road. Following further reports of acci- being informed of their seven-day right to the revenue income arrangements being de- dents in Mallards Way, Cllr Cooke agreed to cancellation. Also they had been pressuris- cided. It was agreed to purchase the equip- inspect the road surface with the district ing homeowners. One had been visited four ment, subject to the agreements being put in manager. An anti-skid surface might be times, two of which were in the local shop. place. required. He asked to be informed if anyone in the vil- Register of volunteers There were lots of in- Urgent matters A branch from an ash tree lage received a visit so that he could attend teresting people in Harrietsham with was touching the bin at the Jubilee triangle. and hopefully obtain registration details to strengths that might be of assistance to the A bollard was missing at Deringwood pass on to trading standards officers. parish council. It was suggested that a regis- Drive/Willington Street junction. A Face- Planning The existing neighbourhood plan ter be created of volunteers willing to assist book reference would be made about horse was out of date and no longer aligned with with different tasks, as required. manure being left on pavements. the Maidstone draft local plan. It was agreed Invitation As in past years, the mayor of Olympicnic 2016 The date was agreed as to use some of the base material from the ex- Maidstone would be invited to the January July 16. While as many local clubs as possi- isting document and write a new neigh- meeting. The clerk was asked to arrange ble would be encouraged to have a stand, bourhood plan. This was with the caveat sandwiches and the chairman would the ethos of the community day to be that the parish council did not incur further arrange the wine with his allowance. enjoyed without having to spend money substantial costs as £21.5k had already been would be continued. spent on the old one. Any funding/external Defibrillator It was agreed that the parish support would need to be secured via Leeds council would pay for installation by an grants. It was agreed to produce a village Highways Residents were reminded to re- electrician and all running costs. design policy. This could be used by the port sightings of HGVs to the clerk or on the Remembrance Day Cllr Brooks volunteered parish council, even if the neighbourhood to collect and present the wreath on Novem- plan was not complete, with Maidstone parish website – www.Leedskent.org.uk. A ber 8. A donation of £45 for the wreath was Council when detailed designs were being photograph and/or registration number are agreed. David Marchant had advised that developed for the Mayfield and Church needed. this would be his last year organising the Road sites. Speed Watch and Lorry Watch Steady appeal. A volunteer was being sought to Website The new website – www.harriet- progress was being made with Kent Police take over his role. shampc.kentparishes.gov.uk – was now up on setting up a Speed Watch group. The Carols and lights Two hundred LED lights and running. It was created free of charge Leeds spotters logged 88 overweight HGVs at £2.90 each would be ordered and allo- and would save the parish council at least during August, mostly with photographs. cated for the parish council’s use. Sugges- £400 a year. All details had been passed to KCC and the tions from Aylesford Electricals would be Apple tree An apple tree in Woodlands police for follow-up. invited for “something special” in respect of Walk was to be removed because it was dan- Playing field The swing seats had been re- Mr Young’s offer to finance additional mo- gerous and a resident had offered to fell it at newed which completed the 2015 safety tifs for Church Road. It was agreed that the no cost to the parish council. The tree was check recommendations. Dog owners were parish council would finance the infrastruc- full of crab apples and these would be re- putting dog waste in the litter bin in front of ture. moved and left in a convenient place for any the pavilion, but this was not for this use. A Community association (DCA) The chair- jam makers in the village. Maidstone Council bin was located just out- man and clerk had attended the annual Glebe Field It was confirmed that the tem- side the car park, by the barrier. Due to the meeting. Topics had included funding for porary bunds would now be a permanent success of Loose Lions football club, parking decorating the centre and a review of hire solution. The parish council would hire a on Sunday mornings was becoming a prob- fees. A substantial increase was likely due to mini digger with driver to level out the lem in adjacent roads. The parish council no increments since 2009. Provision of wifi bunds so that they could be planted up to was looking at ways to resolve this. would be considered with the possibility of look more attractive. Fly-tipping Rubbish in George Lane and be- cost being passed to those who wished to Finance A detailed discussion took place on hind the sports pavilion had at last been use it. The parish council’s suggestion of the several items. The appropriate level of re- cleared by Maidstone Council. centre becoming carbon neutral would be serves would be between £22,000 and Litter Continued litter build-up in and discussed at the association’s next meeting. £44,000 in the general fund and the finance around the clothing and bottle banks in the If agreed, a working group would be set up. committee had agreed that the parish coun- church car park had led to the parish council Play areas A resident of Longham Copse cil should aim not to go below £33,000. Cur- reluctantly deciding to have the banks re- had requested 2ft to be cut from the top of rent predictions were that the reserves moved and not replaced. Details of how res- the hedge next to the play area. The request would be about £34,800 at the end of the fi- idents could dispose of clothing and bottles had been passed to the contractor. nancial year. Cllr Trussler stated he would would be posted on the parish website and like to see the reserves rise to £45,000, which noticeboards. would require the parish council to look at Maintenance The village benches, notice- Harrietsham austerity measures and a gentle precept rise boards and ceramic notice in the entrance to Community warden Martin Sherwood had over forthcoming years. the church had all been refurbished and received various calls regarding driveway Remix It was noted that the group wished new plants placed in the beds around the work in Bearsted and wanted to raise the to purchase sound equipment costing £3,000 village.

A FENCE was damaged in a field in Tyland reports Crime Lane, Sandling. A sat nav and a wallet were taken from a ve- Neighbourhood Watch hicle in Timber Tops, Lordswood. Tools were stolen from a van in a car park in Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Lock Lane, Sandling. A hammer drill was among items stolen from Citroen van in Chatham Road, San- Lane, Detling. A vehicle was damaged in Redsells Close, dling. A black and grey moped parked outside the Downswood. A built-in sat nav system was stolen from a village hall in Pilgrims Way, Detling,was Peugeot vehicle in Bellgrove Court, Walder- stolen. slade. An orange flashing beacon was stolen from PROTECT A shed in the garden of a home in Hockers a van in Gorham Drive, Downswood.A vehi- Lane, Detling was broken into. Tools, includ- cle was taken from Kent County showground YOUR HOME ing a Dewalt drill, a Honda jet washer and a in Detling without the owner’s consent. ALARMS FROM Kawasaki saw were stolen. A car was damaged on a drive in £495+VAT There was an attempted break-in at a home Bournewood Close, Downswood. in Dunn Street, Bredhurst. Bushes at a farm in Scragged Oak Road, ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Two vehicles were damaged in Hockers Detling were cut down. 01622 880751

Maidstone East November 2015 59 Drives, Patios, Walls, Fences, Design etc. FREE ESTIMATES (01622) 738933 Est. 1984 30, Copsewood Way, Bearsted

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