Council Talk

Iwas very proud to promote the growing economic activity in our borough at MIPIM UK in London, a business property trade show attracting professionals looking to close deals in the UK. This provided an excellent platform to promote the borough and Ashford punched well above its weight. Our stand was modern and impressive, with a professionally engaging look that attracted strong interest from the investor market with whom we discussed business opportunities. The stand was extremely busy throughout the event with growing interest in Ashford as an internationally connected town.

Our message was clear – Ashford is going places, the time to get on board is now.

Last week a major planning application was approved, for the building of 249 quality homes in Tenterden, including new vehicular access from Smallhythe Road and Recreation Ground Road, together with a new pedestrian access and open space.

In praising the quality of the scheme the planning committee emphasised strongly the need for this quality to be actually delivered on the site when the homes are built. Accordingly, they have required the applicants to bring forward a regime to manage the quality of the on site development, which the council will monitor closely.

It is never easy to promote important housing development, especially in a town with Tenterden’s character, but the quality and sensitivity of the scheme, coupled with the in-depth programme of public engagement throughout clearly indicates the council’s intention to deliver a development that Tenterden can be rightly proud of.

With Christmas now firmly on the retail horizon, shoppers will be able to enjoy free parking in all council-owned car parks in Ashford and Tenterden on three Sundays before Christmas. The council is once again offering free parking in both towns on December 7, 14 and 21, to encourage as many people as possible to do their Christmas shopping locally, and support local businesses. In addition, parking in council car parks in Tenterden will be free from 2pm on Friday, December 5 to support the late night shopping event.

You will be aware that I often talk about what is being proposed and being done, but unfortunately there are times where, for reasons of commercial confidentiality, I cannot say too much. Even when I can mention what is being proposed, there is often a fairly long lead time before I can announce what has been approved and will be delivered. I am pleased to say that I will shortly be able to make some exciting announcements on proposals that are soon to become a reality.