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Firstly, I would like to say how sad it is to read about the tragic attack, with such a high loss of life, on the crowded Promenade des Anglais in the city of Nice.

On happier matters closer to home, the headline on the front page of last week’s Kentish Express, ‘Boom Town’, was quite pleasing because, it does indicate that we are working hard to bring about significant change.

Despite the uncertainty nationally, which was almost inevitable in the short term following Brexit, Ashford is continuing to keep the momentum going. Whilst we remain very confident, we are of course monitoring the various market fluctuations.

A new state-of –the-art further and higher education campus is coming to life before our very eyes. Hadlow College plan to complete both initial phases of the Ashford College and receive the new students in September 2017. A new Ashford College within the town centre has been an aspiration for all partners for nearly 15 years.

One of the key challenges to economic growth and greater prosperity within the borough has been the need to improve the relatively low skills base.

The delivery of this project will support improved further educational and vocational provision. This in turn will improve the prosperity for both residents and businesses alike.

With over 1,000 students and over 100 staff within easy walking distance of shops, services and restaurants in the town centre, it should have a very positive impact on local businesses by increasing turnover.

Exciting plans to redevelop another part of the town centre into a dynamic new business hub are also advancing.

The first phase of development of the Commercial Quarter, at Dover Place will provide new office space with retail and restaurants on the ground floor together with car parking and landscaping.

The buzz is building for this coming Saturday when one of the biggest Create Music Festival’s in its 21 year history takes place in Victoria Park.

Regarded as one of the best free music festivals in Kent, this year’s centrepiece will be a special celebration of the life and work of David Bowie with a special hitfilled performance show.

Joining ‘David Live’ on the packed festival line-up are over 40 acts over four stages. Families and festival-goers will also get to enjoy food and crafts in the Love Ashford zone, Rio Olympic themed dancers and face painters, a new park sculpture trail, a Chapel Down Boutique Bar, and inventive street performances throughout the day.

The night will close with a firwork display around the Grade II Hubert Fountain. I hope the weather is kind and everyone enjoys the show.