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As the seasons move from summer to autumn, it’s not just nature that is evolving. Our borough continues to do so as well, and nature is pertinent in this regard. There have been lots of positive comments about Conningbrook Lakes Country Park since it opened in May, with people enjoying the wonderful area and being so close to nature.

This weekend sees the community open day at Conningbrook Lakes on Saturday, between 11am and 4pm. Canoeing, paddle boarding, rowing, angling tuition and dinghy demonstrations are just some of the water-based taster events planned for the day. There will also be have-a-go archery, water zorbing, cycling activities, guided walks and much more.

We hope many people will come along to enjoy the fun and try out an activity or two. It’s also an opportunity for those who have not yet been to Conningbrook Lakes to discover the beautiful surroundings – a real jewel in the borough’s crown.

I have been there and it really promises to be a lovely mix of active pursuits and tranquillity. The event and all activities on offer are free.

If you have driven along Station Road in the past few weeks, you will have noticed that demolition work has started to pave the way for a new, state-of-the-art college campus right in the heart of the Ashford.

Plans for a £16 million Ashford College that is fit for the 21st century came a step closer to reality last month when bulldozers moved in to demolish the old college building, Kent Care House and Swanton House on Elwick Road. Again, I was delighted to be there to mark the occasion. It sees the delivery of another priority project in the borough.

The ambitious project, led by Hadlow College, is one of Ashford’s key developments and will play a major part in the town’s future growth and prosperity.

I am also able to report on a third project that is progressing well. I was pleased to see the new artist’s impressions for the Ashford International Model Railway Excellence Centre and hear the plans are on track. The proposals would act as an important heritage site and also a legacy project for future generations.

We have much to be proud of as residents of this borough and these are just some of the many projects that are enhancing its attraction.