Kentish Express Ashford & District
Council Talk
Christchurch House recently featured on popular daytime TV programme Homes Under the Hammer showing how the rundown commercial property was bought at auction by the council and transformed into good quality short-stay accommodation for people we have a legal duty to house.
The renovated building provides eight accommodation units. There is also a communal kitchen area, storage space and a pleasant courtyard.
Previously, the majority of homeless applicants were placed in bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation at a cost of £60 per night to the taxpayer. Therefore Christchurch House will save around £75,000 a year, thus paying for itself in a short period, after which the council will own a valuable housing asset.
I was pleased to learn that Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce has been shortlisted for two national awards at the annual British Chambers of Commerce Awards Ceremony on November 27 in London.
Kent Invicta, based at the Ashford Business Point in Sevington, has been shortlisted in the Excellence in Membership Services and also for the ultimate award of Chamber of the Year.
We enjoy a strong working relationship with the Kent Invicta Chamber. Jo James and her team deserve credit for their proactive and helpful approach to business. With our own focus on encouraging business and inward investment, a strong Chamber is essential and we also support their work with our schools in preparing young people for working life.
Ashford’s Christmas lights switch-on takes place on November 22 at the Bandstand.
Families can meet Postman Pat in County Square shopping centre and on the High Street. A special Farmers’ Christmas Gift market will also take place in Park Mall. There will be an array of festive food, late night shopping and choirs.
The Ashford Rock Choir, Ashford Community Choir and the Salvation Army will be performing while you do your Christmas shopping.
Having been out and about last weekend, it does seem that people are already buying for Christmas and the town centres appear busy, which is good to see.