Council Talk

The number of long-term empty homes in England is over 216,000 and this month’s Empty Homes Week campaign highlights what can be done to tackle the problem. In Ashford, help is at hand for the owners of empty homes to bring their properties back into use.

An increasing number of owners are using ABC Lettings, an agency run by the council, which manages in excess of 260 properties on behalf of private landlords. Visit our website for details.

■ Ashford Borough Council continues to work closely with the government and Kent County Council to prepare for a possible no deal Brexit on 31 October, and I want to reassure people that a considerable amount of time and effort is being invested to minimise disruption for residents and businesses.

The council’s top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents which is why we have a zero tolerance approach towards illegal drug use and anti-social behaviour. Last week we successfully applied for court orders at three separate properties – the first time we have ever brought three cases in one day and a sign that we are determined to take firm action.

If you are affected then I urge you not to suffer in silence.

Use our “Report It” service online (www. ashford.gov.uk/report) or report your concerns to the police direct or via Crime Stoppers.

■ Last Saturday was particularly busy for Ashford town centre with Macknade staging its pre-launch party in the open area outside the Picturehouse cinema.

It was a very entertaining event and extremely well attended.

The weather was kind to us and it was a joy to see so many people enjoying themselves.

■ On Sunday I went with my wife to see the new Downton Abbey film at the Picturehouse.

They had promoted the film by having a Downton cream tea prior to the showing. The auditorium for the screening was completely full and the film was absolutely delightful.

I would urge anyone who has not yet visited the Picturehouse cinema to do so, or you can actually just drop in for a coffee or a meal to get the feel of it.