30/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 30 2009 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
Tuesday, 30 June 2009
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
30/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 30 2009 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
Monday, 29 June 2009
Thanet College
Leader of Thanet District Council, Cllr. Sandy Ezekiel said:“I am bitterly saddened of the news that Thanet College will not receive the capital funding needed to relocate to a new, purpose built campus at Westwood. Both the Governors and staff of Thanet College are disappointed to learn that their own relocation plans do not form part of the 13 colleges selected for the next stage of the funding allocation in 2011.
This is a great shame for Thanet and I feel, a huge opportunity missed to improve and offer state of the art training facilities to both Thanet residents and its workforce.
Building the new campus and once it was ready, wuld have provided new jobs, and in this current economic climate this won’t help improve Thanet’s rising unemployment rate. I am pleased that the college is continuing to liaise with the LSC to explore the future options for alternative development strategies and we will do what we can to help support any future applications for this new, much needed skills and training facility.”
Saturday, 27 June 2009
The Last weeks planning applications,
Ed the TDC planning website is one of the most bizarre websites I have ever come across in as much as the web addresses of the pages on it change after a few hours so you can’t publish links to them. If you want to look at any of the applications you need to go to the site and enter the application reference in the search box, this link takes you to the site http://www.ukplanning.com/thanet26 Jun 2007
A/TH/07/0770
LAURA ASHLEY UNIT 5, BROADSTAIRS RETAIL PARK MARGATE ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT102QW
decided
26 Jun 2007
A/TH/07/0796
SAN CLU HOTEL VICTORIA PARADE RAMSGATE CT118DT
decided
26 Jun 2007
CU/TH/07/0525
52 HARDRES STREET RAMSGATE CT118QP
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0722
60 ELLINGTON ROAD RAMSGATE CT119SR
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0771
112 GRANGE ROAD RAMSGATE CT119PT
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0773
160 KING STREET RAMSGATE CT118PJ
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0781
RED LION 1 KING STREET RAMSGATE CT118NN
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0784
8 GOODWIN ROAD RAMSGATE CT110LP
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0786
25 GREEN LANE BROADSTAIRS CT102RP
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0787
183 PERCY AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT103LF
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0792
14 WAVERLEY ROAD MARGATE CT95QB
decided
26 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0826
3 FITZROY AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT103LS
decided
26 Jun 2007
L/TH/07/0782
14 ROYAL ROAD RAMSGATE CT119LE
decided
26 Jun 2007
L/TH/07/0783
PINEWOOD STUDIOS 3 ROYAL CRESCENT ST. AUGUSTINES ROAD RAMSGATE CT119PD
decided
26 Jun 2007
L/TH/07/0797
SAN CLU HOTEL VICTORIA PARADE RAMSGATE CT118DT
decided
26 Jun 2007
OL/TH/07/0780
126 GRANGE ROAD RAMSGATE CT119PT
decided
26 Jun 2007
OL/TH/07/0785
24 ROSEMARY GARDENS BROADSTAIRS CT102ET
decided
22 Jun 2007
A/TH/07/0745
BUILDER CENTER WESTWOOD ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT102NU
decided
22 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0738
43 ETHELBERT SQUARE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88SR
current
21 Jun 2007
C/TH/07/0738
43 ETHELBERT SQUARE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88SR
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0498
18B LEOPOLD ROAD RAMSGATE CT117JW
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0636
80 SWEYN ROAD CLIFTONVILLE MARGATE CT92DD
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0725
62 THE RIDGEWAY BROADSTAIRS CT102HE
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0734
THE BRITANNIA FORT HILL MARGATE CT91HH
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0740
ST. AUGUSTINES COLLEGE 125 CANTERBURY ROAD WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88NL
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0742
33 QUEENS AVENUE MARGATE CT95SB
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0743
1 NURSERY GARDENS BROADSTAIRS CT103EW
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0744
VIKING COURT CLIFTONVILLE AVENUE MARGATE CT92AH
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0745
BUILDER CENTER WESTWOOD ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT102NU
current
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0747
12 ROSEMARY GARDENS BROADSTAIRS CT102ET
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0752
M G MUSIC SHOP 16 THE VALE BROADSTAIRS CT101RB
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0753
165 BOTANY ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT103SD
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0754
51 THE MAPLES BROADSTAIRS CT102PE
decided
21 Jun 2007
F/TH/07/0755
34 PARK AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT102EY
decided
* This date is when Thanet District Council first published this case file.
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Friday, 26 June 2009
Smokefree vehicles
Action against business vehicle drivers and owners, who flout the Smokefree laws, is being stepped up by Thanet District Council.The move, in line with other authorities in Kent, comes as the second anniversary of the Smokefree legislation, which was introduced on 1 July 2007, draws near.
Generally, most people have complied with the Smokefree laws in Thanet, but problems still remain with people breaking the law by either smoking in their business vehicles or allowing smoking in them.
Recently, Licensing Officers in Thanet caught two taxi drivers smoking in their vehicles on the same day, both of whom were handed Fixed Penalty Notices.
Two other van drivers have also been seen smoking in their vehicles by Environmental Health Officers while they were driving through Thanet. The owners were tracked down and investigations into these two offences are still continuing.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “It seems that many people who drive a vehicle for business believe they are safe from prosecution when they are in their work cars or vans. The health problems smoking causes are compelling reasons not to break the law. If business vehicle drivers are smoking in vehicles when they shouldn't then the council will take legal action against them.”
Thanet College
Stephen Ladyman's reaction to news that Thanet College is not included in the next wave of funding for New Colleges for the Future Funding"This is dreadful news.The team at Thanet College have worked incredibly hard on this project and I have no doubt they will be broken hearted.However, the programme continues and the next wave of funding will be prioritised from the Autumn for funding from 2011.
We need to redouble our efforts to ensure that Thanet College is included and that is what I will be doing everything I can to achieve.
I've already spoken to Jonathan Shaw, the Regional Minister. He clearly understands how important this project is to Thanet."
Stephen Ladyman MP South Thanet01843 852696WMS follows:
Written Ministerial Statement by Kevin Brennan Friday 26th June 2009Learning and skills announcement regarding next steps of the FE capital programmeThe Learning and Skills Council (LSC) is announcing today a shortlist of 13 further education building projects which are proceeding to the next stage of development.
The 13 projects announced today have been prioritised from over 180 projects submitted to the LSC as part of the latest round of the FE Capital programme. The LSC has been working in close consultation with the sector to use transparent and objective criteria to inject funds where they will have greatest impact for learners, employers and communities, to get building work started quickly, and to get best value for the taxpayer.
The LSC examined all projects which are ready to proceed quickly and then applied the following criteria: the education and skills impact; contribution to local economic and regeneration priorities; co-dependency (for example, where there is significant leverage of third party funding or another important project that is dependent on the college project); the current condition of the estate; and value for money.
The 13 colleges will now be asked by the LSC to make cost reductions to their initial project plans, to maximise borrowing within prudent limits, and to examine other possible sources of funds, while at the same time maintaining the planned project benefit for future learners and enabling construction to proceed rapidly.
The aim of the LSC is to deliver best value for money for the taxpayer and to fund the maximum possible number of projects.
The 13 colleges are:Barnsley CollegeBournville CollegeFurness CollegeHartlepool College of Further EducationKirklees CollegeLeyton Sixth Form CollegeManchester College - WythenshaweNorth West Kent CollegeSt Helens CollegeSandwell CollegeSouth Thames CollegeTresham Institute of Further and Higher Education, CorbyWest Cheshire College
Discussions between these colleges and the Learning and Skills Council will take place as a matter of urgency.
All 13 colleges will receive funding only if the overall cost is reduced. The reductions required are significant but manageable. For colleges which have not been selected to proceed this year, the next steps start this autumn when the Learning and Skills Council will further consult with the sector to agree a robust, fair and transparent process for prioritising the capital investment programme for the next Spending Review period starting in 2011/12.
The size and scope of the programme will depend on the outcome of the next Spending Review. Many colleges have incurred development costs for projects which will not now be going ahead in the short term. The Learning and Skills Council has a contingency fund to mitigate the impact of potential aborted costs on the financial health of colleges.
This will be limited to those appropriately incurred within the terms of the capital programme. [KW1]
The investment announced today will have a significant beneficial impact on the colleges, their learners and on local communities.
Budget 2009 announced an additional £300 million of capital investment in further education as part of a fiscal stimulus package which has enabled a number of projects to be funded this year. This Government has an excellent record on investment in FE capital and since 2001, 700 projects - at nearly 330 colleges across England - have been funded. Mistakes were made by the Learning and Skills Council in carrying out the FE Capital programme.
In April of this year, Sir Andrew Foster completed an independent report on how this whole situation arose. He concluded that "a good policy has been compromised by the manner of its implementation."
There is now new leadership to the organisation and measures in place to ensure that there will be no repeat of those mistakes as the programme moves forward.The Government remains committed to the FE capital investment programme, and this will continue into the next Spending Review.
The Learning and Skills Council will in the meantime help colleges whose projects are not proceeding in the short term to draw up a revised estates strategy and to examine other possible sources of finance such as collective approaches to private financing and borrowing.
SAVE OUR NEWSAGENTS
STEPHEN LADYMAN MP FIGHTS FOR THE FUTURE OF SOUTH THANET NEWSAGENTS.Stephen Ladyman MP has pledged to fight for the future of newsagents in South Thanet.
The commitment came after it was revealed that traditional newsagents are being forced to shut up shop at a rate of more than one every day.
Developments in the news distribution industry - the businesses that deliver newspapers and magazines - have left most newsagents with no choice over who supplies them.Shop owners fear that the lack of competition will leave them with no alternative supplier and vulnerable to increased costs.
Last week almost 800 newsagents delivered a petition to the Office of Fair Trading demanding urgent action to protect competition in the news distribution industry.Stephen Ladyman MP today threw his weight behind the campaign to save Britain's newsagents.
He said: "Local newsagents provide a great service to our communities and we can't afford to lose them.
That is why I've been trying to get clarity from the Government in recent weeks about the costs of implementing the new rules on tobacco displays and why I'm backing the campaign for the OFT to act to stop the big newspaper publishers forcing up the costs of local newsagents.""We all want to be able to get our newspapers from the friendly face at the end of the road and it is unacceptable that so many newsagents face an uphill struggle to survive.
I am happy to pledge my support to newsagents in South Thanet and across the UK.
Note to editors:Photo shows Stephen Ladyman signing the campaign pledge. Stephen has also asked a series of recent Parliamentary Questions about the cost of implementing changes on tobacco displays and has discussed the problems facing the sector with ministers.
He also hosted a Parliamentary reception on behalf of the National Federation of Retail Newsagents after being approached by Hitash Pandya, proprietor of Toni's newsagents in Ramsgate.
Thursday, 25 June 2009
25/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 25 2009 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
25/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 25 2009 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee25/06/2009 - Decision Published: Free moorings and the use of the commercial quay at Ramsgate Harbour for the Ramsgate Branch of the RNLI to hold fundraising event on Sunday 16th August 2009.
25/06/2009 - Issue Published: Free moorings and the use of the commercial quay at Ramsgate Harbour for the Ramsgate Branch of the RNLI to hold fundraising event on Sunday 16th August 2009.
25/06/2009 - Decision Published: Approval to allow Firework Displays to take place from the East Pier, Ramsgate Royal Harbour during July and August 2009
25/06/2009 - Issue Published: Approval to allow Firework Displays to take place from the East Pier, Ramsgate Royal Harbour during July and August 2009
Turner and Dickens Walk Opening
Sorry about the short notice of this but I wanted to let you know about anew and exciting attraction launching in Thanet this weekend.
Sunday 28th June sees the opening of the new 'Turner and Dickens Walk'.A creative connection of Margate and Broadstairs: be the first totake the new Turner and Dickens Walk at 2pm. Entertainment from 1pm at both starting points - the Piazza in Margateor the Promenade outside Dickens House Museum in Broadstairs. 250 freepedometers at each end, free children's colouring sheets and the chanceto win a seal watching trip for 4 with Horizon Sea Safaris. http://www.turneranddickenswalk.co.uk/
Many thanks and kind regards
Laura Sandys
Parliamentary Candidate for South Thanet, Sandwich, Little Stour & Ashstone
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
COLOUR COMES TO NORTHDOWN ROAD
One of Thanet's local high streets is getting a splash of colour this summer, with the arrival of new floral baskets.A total of 48 baskets have been installed along Northdown Road in Cliftonville from Margate Caves all the way up to Tesco and the project is organised by Youngs Nurseries.
The baskets have been funded with a combination of money from Thanet District Council, the Cliftonville Partnership and from Cllr. John Watkins, who represents Margate Central.
Pamela Pople is the Community Development Support Worker for the Cliftonville Partnership and is funded by the Safer Stronger Communities Fund (SSCF).
She said: "This floral display project is an excellent example of partnership working and makes a huge impact on Northdown Road, providing much needed colour, which instantly raises morale in the area. The project is always very well received by businesses, organisations, residents and visitors alike and is vital, especially in this current financial climate."
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
24/06/2009 - Decision Published: Service of Revised Notice of Rent Increase to Council Tenants24/06/2009 - Issue Published: Service of Revised Notice of Rent Increase to Council Tenants
24/06/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jun 23 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board
25/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 25 2009 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
25/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 25 2009 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee25/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 25 2009 9:30AM, East Kent Joint Scrutiny Committee
23/06/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jun 11 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee
23/06/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jun 16 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
Last weeks planning applications,
Ed the TDC planning website is one of the most bizarre websites I have ever come across in as much as the web addresses of the pages on it change after a few hours so you can’t publish links to them. If you want to look at any of the applications you need to go to the site and enter the application reference in the search box, this link takes you to the site http://www.ukplanning.com/thanet17 Jun 2009
A/TH/09/0451
27 HIGH STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101LL
current
17 Jun 2009
F/TH/09/0456
40 LONDON ROAD RAMSGATE CT110ND
current
17 Jun 2009
L/TH/09/0407
ADMIRALTY COTTAGE HARBOUR STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101EU
current
F/TH/09/0456
40 LONDON ROAD RAMSGATE CT110ND
current
17 Jun 2009
L/TH/09/0407
ADMIRALTY COTTAGE HARBOUR STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101EU
current
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
23/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 23 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board22/06/2009 - Decision Published: Exemption from harbour dues for vessels participating in the 70th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo
22/06/2009 - Issue Published: Exemption from harbour dues for vessels participating in the 70th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo
Monday, 22 June 2009
RECORD VISITOR NUMBERS FOR MARGATE
Click on image to enlaregeOver 90,000 people joined in the fun this weekend (Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June) to celebrate Kent’s biggest air and land festival, Margate’s Big Event.
Visitors from all over the South East of England, and many from further afield, flocked to Palm Bay in Margate to enjoy the thrilling aerial displays, live music and award winning street entertainment.
In the sky highlights included the breathtaking return of the Red Arrows, a thrilling UK debut from Team Viper Strikemasters, the roaring Typhoon and daring Team Guinot Wingwalkers as well as flights from the Hawk, Tutor, Aerostars and the nostalgic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
On the ground tens of thousands partied the night away at the stunning 70’s tribute concert featuring We Will Rock You, the Bee Gees and Tina Turner with an incredible firework finale.
Families were also treated to a fun fair with white knuckle rides and children’s attractions, a food and drink village, fully licensed bars, helicopter rides and for the brave, skydiving in the Adrenalin Vertical Wind Tunnel.
Attendance to the event this year has beaten figures from the last five years, which have risen by over 60,000 since the first, back in 2005.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Economy and Culture, said: “We anticipated a big crowd this year but over 90,000 people coming to Palm Bay is just wonderful. Margate’s Big Event really puts Thanet on the map and it’s a real joy to be part of such a successful event. I’d like to thank all of the people who helped to make it such a huge success. I think it’s fantastic to see so many new people coming into the area and I look forward to welcoming them back to the Isle soon.”
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
23/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 23 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board22/06/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jun 30 2009 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
TOP CLASS BEACH VOLLEYBALL BACK IN MARGATE
Top class national beach volleyball returns to Margate this weekend (Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June) when the Margate Masters Beach Tournament arrives on the town's Main Sands.Margate is one just five locations in the UK playing host to the Volleyball England Beach Tour Open for summer 2009 and the only venue in the south east. Last year's event was described by Volleyball England as the best Beach Tour Open ever held and, once again, this year's event is being organized by Thanet District Council's Sport Matters team.
There will be play on both days from 9am to 5pm, with the finals starting at 2pm on Sunday (28 June). Men's and ladies' pairs will be competing on international standard courts, looking to take away ranking points, as well as the overall event title.
The weekend will also see a local standard knockout tournament on the Sunday and free activities for all the family. On the Friday, the Margate Masters Schools Beach Volleyball Competition will see players from Thanet's secondary schools competing on the Main Sands.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "This weekend should see some superb sporting action in Margate, with the top ranked players competing in this year's Volleyball England Beach Open Tour. It's a unique opportunity to see world class sporting action right on your doorstep and we're looking forward to welcoming both players and spectators to the beautiful Main Sands, which will be a superb setting for the tournament. It's a great honour to once again be chosen to host the top level of competition in this sport, especially as fewer venues have been selected this year."
COUNCIL’S GOOD COMMUNICATIONS
Thanet District Council has been shortlisted in two categories of this year's Good Communications Awards.The awards, which are now into their fifth year, are open to all public sector organisations and aim to recognise effective communication with local residents and staff.
The Youth Matters magazine, aimed at 11 to 19 year olds, was shortlisted in the Council Publication - Design category and will be competing against Essex County Council, Haringey Council in London, Stoke-on-Trent Council and Salford City Council.
The council has also made it on to the shortlist in the Internal Communications category for its Moving Matters campaign, which includes a dedicated website, staff cut outs and publicity material. This aims to keep staff informed during a three year project that will see the vast majority of the council's office based staff having to move, as part of a programme to reduce the amount of office space used by the council.
In this category, Thanet will be competing against Westminster, Essex and Harrow Council and the Ministry of Justice.
Leader of Thanet District Council, Cllr. Sandy Ezekiel, said: "It's excellent news to see the council being recognised at a national level for the work we do. Youth Matters is a superb publication and does a great job of getting some really important messages out to young people in a way that's appealing and exciting to them. A lot of work also goes on to ensure that our staff, who are our most important asset, are kept up to date with what's happening at the council. It's therefore really pleasing to see us also shortlisted for internal communications, as this is something that's a real priority for us."
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in early July.
PLANS FOR GRANVILLE MARINA REFUSED
Plans to convert and extend a listed building on Ramsgate seafront into flats have been refused by the council's Planning Committee.The plans for 1 Granville Marina were rejected at the meeting on Wednesday night (17 June).
The property was purpose built as a photographer's studio in 1877 by John Thomas Wimperis (1829-1904), a favoured architect of the first Duke of Westminster and is better known locally as the former Marina Restaurant. The building is well known and an important feature on Ramsgate seafront. There was considerable local concern when part of the structure came down last year.
The proposals were to convert the original building, which is currently in a state of severe disrepair and needs to be reinstated, and to add on a three storey side extension. Together, these would create five two bedroom flats and a one bedroom flat.
Members were told that English Heritage had advised the council that the extension was justified in principle, as the money made from it could then be used to pay for the reinstatement of the building.
Cllr. Ken Gregory, Chairman of the Planning Committee, said: "Committee members felt that the work being proposed would cause great harm to the character and appearance of the listed building and the Conservation Area. This wasn't acceptable, so the plans were refused."
A report on the future of the building will be going to the next meeting of the Planning Committee in July.
Friday, 19 June 2009
19/06/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of May 21 2009 9:00PM, Council19/06/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of May 21 2009 7:00PM, Council
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Ladyman takes the fast train
MP Joins High Speed One for Preview JourneySouth Thanet MP, Stephen Ladyman, was on board High Speed One for its first preview journey from St Pancras to Ashford today. The new Hitachi built train, operated by Southeastern railway did the journey in just 28minutes!"Its a fantastic train" said Dr.Ladyman."I can't wait for December when it starts running from Ramsgate. I hope people who have the chance will try it out"Southeastern is starting a partial 'preview' service for the public from Ashford and Ebbsfleet to London while it gears up to the start of the full Kent Integrated High Speed Service in December.
The peak time service in December will take less than 80minutes from Ramsgate to London compared with 129 minutes now.
"80 minutes to St Pancras will be great, and it will be 7 minutes quicker than that into Stratford for people who work in the City or West London can change to the DLR or Jubilee Lines. But I believe that with some modest investments to the line between Ramsgate and Ashford or perhaps some more tweaks to the timetable that they can get even that journey time down a bit. Today my journey to Ashford was 28 minutes and then on the ordinary slow train it was 40minutes from Ashford to Ramsgate, so that totals just 1hr 8minutes and I'm pressing to see the new service doing that time."Gwyn Prosser MP and Stephen Ladyman MP were onboard the 'stakeholder' preview journey but no Conservative MPs were on board. Stephen said:"I suspect they are embarrassed. The Conservative Government made it clear that they had no intention of investing in a domestic service to use the high speed line. Without a Labour Government we would never have had this golden opportunity for Kent. It could transform the economies of Dover and Thanet, the start of the new service can't come soon enough."
MP demands Tories repay cost of reception
Carter has embarrassed Kent and misused public funds says Ladyman.South Thanet MP, Stephen Ladyman, has demanded that Kent's Tory Party and Council leader Paul Carter repay Council Tax payers for the cost of a parliamentary reception billed as supporting Kent's businesses but which was hijacked for party political purposes.
Stephen Ladyman said after the event: "Paul Carter’s speech and that of Caroline Spellman, the shadow local government spokesperson, were an embarrassment to Kent. They were blatantly party political, they made no attempt to invite alternative views from Government spokesmen or Labour MPs and they even insulted the Chair of the Local Government Select Committee by inviting her, subjecting her to two Tory Party rants, but then not allowing her to say anything in response. She stormed out in disgust!"
The reception was billed as 'Kent County Council’s parliamentary reception, Supporting Business Locally, supported by British Chambers of Commerce' and it was paid for from KCC funds. No Labour speeches were allowed. Paul Carter’s speech was overtly political, calling for a Conservative Government to be elected and directly attacking Government policies.
"Of course, at a Conservative meeting or rally he is entitled to make his biased and inaccurate comments. He can ignore the facts as much as he likes and try to pretend that problems in Kent directly caused by his actions were somehow the Government's fault, but he can't do it on the Council Tax payer’s Dime. This was a political meeting, disguised as an all party meeting to support local business. He has embarrassed the County, embarrassed the Chambers of Commerce and let down his office."
"Carter or the Tory Party should repay the cost of this reception in full. He should also write a letter of apology to Mrs Starkey for the disgraceful way he behaved. Even in the midst of political battles we can be civil, surely?"
“He should also apologise to the Chambers of Commerce who have tried hard in recent years to avoid partisan activity. They have many Labour voting members and they know that MPs of all parties work hard to support local business. I’m sure they are as angry about this as I am.”
Note to editors:
Stephen Ladyman has written to the Compliance Officer at KCC and its Chief Executive asking for action over this reception. The text of the letter is below:
Dear
I wish to make a formal complaint about Kent County Council using public funds for party political purposes.
On 17th June I attended a reception at the House of Commons organised and paid for by Kent County Council. It followed a seminar on the subject of business support in Kent which I did not attend.
The reception itself was billed as an opportunity for Parliamentarians and KCC to show how we can support local business and specifically the invite described the event as: 'Kent County Council’s parliamentary reception, Supporting Business Locally, supported by British Chambers of Commerce.'
In the event, the reception was a blatant exercise in Conservative propaganda. The Council Leader, Paul carter made an openly partisan speech, calling for the election of a Conservative Government and making claims about how a Conservative Government would transform Kent's business environment. His speech was followed by one from Caroline Spellman, the Conservative Spokesperson on local government affairs, and it was equally partisan.
No Government spokesman or MP was allowed to speak, even though we had been invited and I was in the room. The chairperson of the Select Committee on Communities and Local Government (Phyllis Starkey MP) was specifically invited and encouraged to attend but not allowed to speak - in fact, on hearing the nature of the speeches that were made she walked out in disgust.
I do not know if the seminar itself was equally partisan. This is a matter for you to investigate with those KCC officers who were present, but the reception was blatantly so. This event, funded by Kent's Council Tax payers was, therefore, an entirely inappropriate use of public funds. I seek from you, therefore, action to ensure that:
(1) Cllr Carter, or the Conservative Party are required to repay its costs to the Council.
(2) Cllr carter writes on behalf of the Council and the people of Kent a letter of apology to Mrs Starkey.
(3) Cllr Carter apologies to the officers of the Council who were present and who helped organise what they thought to be a proper event in support of local business for the embarrassment he caused them
(4) Cllr Carter should apologise to the Chambers of Commerce supporting the event, who in recent years have steered clear of partisan activity, for the damage he has caused to their reputation for impartiality
(5) Cllr Carter apologises to the many business people present at the event who are not Conservative supporters for his abuse of their time
(6) Steps are taken to ensure that Council funds are not spent on party political activity in the future and that those involved in organising this event are given guidance as to what is and is not acceptable in the future.
I look forward to your comments and investigation of this matter which I will take to the Ombudsman if it is not satisfactorily resolved.
Yours
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
NEW APPROACH TO TACKLING HOUSING PROBLEMS
A radical new approach is being proposed to help tackle housing problems in Margate Central and Cliftonville West.A draft Housing Renewal Strategy for the two areas was last night (Tuesday 16 June) approved by Cabinet Members to go out to public consultation. It follows on from the previous Housing Renewal Delivery Plan, which has been in place for the last four years.
The new strategy acknowledges that, despite significant achievements over the last four years, including 130 properties brought up to the Decent Homes Standard and the closure of seven Houses in Multiple Occupation, the private rented sector still remains exceptionally strong in the area. Levels of home ownership are continuing to decline, as properties are converted into private rented accommodation.
As a result, a new approach is being proposed, with poor quality rented accommodation brought under the control and management of Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) who can then convert properties into decent quality rented or shared ownership homes that they retain control of in the short to medium term. The plan is that when the housing market improves and the demand for home ownership increases, a proportion of the homes acquired in this way will then be put up for sale, increasing the percentage of home ownership in the area.
It is hoped that this approach could see the number of privately rented properties reduced by 110 properties each year over a five year period. This would then leave the area 30% of properties in the private rented sector, a substantial reduction on the current situation.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "The problems in Margate Central and Cliftonville West are ones that we are determined to tackle, but as the last few years have shown, doing so will be no easy task. This new draft Housing Renewal Strategy sets out a new, radical approach to tackling the concentrations of deprivation in the area. It's vital that we do something to get a better mix of rented and owner occupied properties. Too much poor quality private rented accommodation has attracted single people, dependent on benefits, to move into the area. Our strategy is heavily dependent upon the support from the government, who need to put in the money to support our proposals. This important document sets out the case for government funding to help us make Cliftonville and central Margate a better place to live for future generations."
To request a copy of the draft strategy, contact the Strategic Housing team on 01843 577280
SUPPORT GIVEN TO RE-OPENING OF RAMSGATE MUSEUM
Plans to lease the Clock Tower building and Smeaton Dock to the Steam Museum Trust to enable the re-opening of the Ramsgate Maritime Museum have been supported by the council's Cabinet.At their meeting last night (Tuesday 16 June), they agreed that a Letter of Occupation should be provided to the Trust to allow the museum to open during the summer season. This was proposed ahead of a final formal legal agreement, which is unlikely to be ready before the opening date.
Support was given to the plans, but final agreement cannot be given to the proposals until the Cabinet meeting in August. This is because the Clock Tower building is currently on the council's asset disposal list. The process of asset management will not be concluded until proposals come forward from first the Asset Working Party and then the Overview and Scrutiny Panel. This report will go to Cabinet in August.
Ramsgate Maritime Museum closed in November 2008, after a review identified that the museum and Margate Museum were failing to attract significant visitor numbers from outside the area. Each visit was being subsidised by Council Taxpayers by at least £9.60 per head. A survey with local residents also showed that museums were viewed as a low priority.
As a result, the grant to the East Kent Maritime Trust, who operated both museums, was withdrawn from the 2008/09 financial year.
Detailed negotiations have been held with the Steam Museum Trust, who want to re-open the museum this summer and provide public access to the nearby tug Cervia over time, which will undergo a phased restoration. The proposals would see a full redisplay of the museum galleries by the Trust over the next three years, with investment to provide a café and improved gift shop. A new programme of up to six weekend events a year will also be introduced by the Trust based around the museum forecourt.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "The proposals put forward by the Steam Museum Trust are exceptionally welcome. They should see the reopening and operation of the Ramsgate Maritime Museum, which is excellent news for the area. We are aware that the museum is a valuable asset for Thanet, both as a visitor attraction and for the historical importance of the exhibitions it holds. We look forward to seeing it back in business again, thanks to the Steam Museum Trust."
Cabinet will be asked to make a final agreement on this at their meeting on Thursday 6 August.
UPDATE ON PLEASURAMA DEVELOPMENT
Support has been given to going forward with regeneration plans for the former Pleasurama site in Ramsgate.At a meeting of the council's Cabinet last night (Tuesday 16 June), members agreed to support proceeding with the development agreement for the site.
The decision came after officers reported that the council has obtained a variety of assurances from the developer about the investment funding for the project. Members were told that the information and assurances given by the developer meant that the risk to the council had been significantly reduced.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: " This is an important site for the regeneration of Ramsgate and that's why the council asked for confirmation that the funding was in place to secure this development. Cabinet Members felt that we had received sufficient reassurances to enable this project to go ahead, although the final decision on this rests with all councillors."
The matter will be now be referred to a meeting of full Council, where a final decision will be made.
PLANS FOR EAST KENT HR SERVICE APPROVED
Plans to save almost £2.3 million through the creation of a single human resources service for four of East Kent's councils, including Thanet, have been approved by the Cabinet.The plans would see Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet councils sharing human resources and health and safety services, with payroll provided by Kent County Council. The savings would be shared amongst the four councils over a five year period.
It's part of the East Kent shared services project, which aims to provide cost effective services across East Kent and make the best possible use of the councils' resources and staff expertise.
Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: "We are committed to providing the best possible value for money to our residents and these proposals will help us to meet that aim. A shared human resources service for East Kent will provide potentially massive savings, meaning we can keep Council Tax rises to an absolute minimum. These plans should also bring benefits to our staff, both in terms of opportunities for our human resources team and for the rest of our staff with better access to training in the future."
The project has already got the go ahead from the East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee, which is made up of lead councillors from each of the authorities involved.
Following that approval, the proposals have to be approved by each council. The proposal will also have to be approved at a full meeting of Thanet's Council.
FREE FAMILY FUN THIS FATHERS DAY WEEKEND
For an unforgettable Fathers Day weekend why not make the most of the sun, sea and stunts in the sky and head down to Palm Bay to experience Kent’s biggest free land and air festival ever!With entertainment to suit the whole family, Margate’s Big Event boasts its best line up yet featuring a mixture of live music, street performances and stunning aerial displays over the entire weekend.
Taking to the skies on the Saturday, Margate’s Big Event is thrilled to be welcoming back the Red Arrows, Typhoon and Team Guinot Wingwalkers, with entertainment on Sunday including the UK debut of the Team Viper flying strikemasters, Gnat Pair and Aerostars. All of this, as well as flights on both days from the Hawk, Tutor and the nostalgic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight!
Entertainment back on the ground includes magical escapology, breathtaking power tumbling, circus tricks, fire breathing dragons, robotics, crawling giant bugs, nine foot high birds and so much more!
For those who love music, the centre stage will host an array of performances including a selection of swing and jazz, classic rock, pop and soul, ska, Latin and funk. The crowds on Saturday night will be treated to a stunning 70’s tribute concert featuring We Will Rock You, the Bee Gees and Tina Turner with a fabulous firework finale to round off the fun. Concert goers are also invited to dress to impress, with the most authentic 70’s outfit winning a family ticket for four to attend a local Sea Safari excursion to visit the county’s seal colonies.
For the daring, helicopter rides are also on offer as well as whiteknuckle rides at the funfair and the breathtaking Adrenalin Vertical Wind Tunnel which is a skydiving free fall simulator creating wind speeds of up to 125 mph. For those who prefer to keep two feet on the ground there is also the chance to watch a thrilling performance from the Kent Youth Trials Club motorcycle team.
Open from 10am until 10pm on Saturday and from 10.30am to 6pm on Sunday, visitors can get to the event for free by catching the shuttle bus from Margate Station, can park for £5 at Palm Bay Primary School, or can cycle or walk to Palm Bay along the beautiful Viking Coastal Trail.
Programmes for the weekend are now available to purchase for £2 from local Visitor Information Centres, by calling 0870 264 6111 or can be picked up at the event.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “The fact that over 60,000 people attended our Big Event last year speaks for itself. We are thrilled to be welcoming back the event this weekend and are keeping our fingers crossed for the beautiful weather which has been predicted. It’s a fabulous free event for the whole family, and a fantastic way to spend Fathers Day without breaking the bank!”
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
THANET’S LOUDEST YOUNGSTER REVEALED
A youngster from Margate has been named the loudest in Thanet, after winning a competition to celebrate Noise Action Day, which was run by Thanet District Council.Thanet District Council's Environmental Protection Team visited Asda in Broadstairs last month (May) and asked children to shout into a noise monitor, as loudly as they can.
Nine year old Jack Ralf was the loudest, coming in at 106.5 decibels, the equivalent of a football crowd. He was the winner of a slimline MP3 player, which holds up to 500 songs, donated by Asda.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "Congratulations to Jack on his win. This has been a fun way to highlight what can be a serious problem for many people. Our Environmental Protection Team are here to help with such issues, whether the noise is from their neighbours or perhaps a business nearby. Anyone suffering such problems doesn't have to suffer in silence."
The council's Environmental Protection team deals with a range of other issues, as well as noise, tackling problems such as air pollution, high garden hedges and light pollution.
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
17/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 17 2009 7:00PM, Planning Committee
Monday, 15 June 2009
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
15/06/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jun 23 2009 10:45AM, Licensing Sub Commitee15/06/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jun 25 2009 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
15/06/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jun 23 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board
15/06/2009 - Agenda supplement published - Agenda Supplement : Agenda Supplement: Meeting of Jun 16 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet
BRINGING THE COMMUNITY IN MARGATE TOGETHER
Residents in Margate can access a range of services and activities at one of their local community centers.St. John's Community Centre in Victoria Road, Margate received a major grant from the Safer Stronger Communities Fund (SSCF) in 2007/08, which paid for a new heating system and refurbishment of the toilets. The rear of the centre was also paved and cleared of rubbish and debris, with CCTV installed in the churchyard to provide added security.
Groups who use the centre include the Street Dance Group, which has been running for the past two years. They hold weekly classes at the centre on Monday evenings from 4.30pm to 6.00pm. The group is supported by the St. John's Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) and by Beth Denning from KRMSG (Kent Refugee Minority Support Group) who is funded by the SSCF.
Emer Seamark from St. John's NAG said: "Since the group started two years ago we have seen it grow, with more and more young people taking part. Some dancers have taken a leading role by becoming dance coaches and St. John's NAG has supported them and has been able to finance the group through a Grassroots Grant. Money is always difficult to generate, but as a group, we are committed to supporting this thriving group of young people."
The Street Dance Group has proved to be so popular that coaches Georgia and Parise also run another street dance group at the Quarterdeck on Thursdays from 7pm until 9pm. The group is currently working on their next public performance at QuexPo on Saturday 11 July at Quex Park.
The centre is also home to a weekly lunch club on Wednesdays at 12.30pm, where you can enjoy a two course home cooked lunch for £3 for adults or £1.50 for children. To book a lunch, call the Centre. A group that helps chronic pain sufferers, Friends in Pain, also meets there on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 1pm and there is a regular charity shop on the third Saturday of each month between 10am and midday, selling clothes, bric a brac, books and DVDs.
As well as regular activities, the neighbouring St. John's Church also hosts events, with the Railway Swing Band in concert on Wednesday 24 June at 7.30pm who play a range of music from the big band era to more modern pieces. Tickets are £6 or £5 for friends of St. John's. It will be the band's last appearance in Thanet until the autumn.
To find out more about the activities on offer, call St. John's Community Centre on 01843 224957.
The Safer Stronger Communities Fund aims to transform the Margate Central and Cliftonville West wards and the green space of Dane Park, by improving the quality of life for those who live and work in these areas.
COUNCIL RETAINS CHARTER MARK
Thanet District Council has retained a prestigious national award, given in recognition of the excellent service it provides to its customers.The Government's nationally recognised Charter Mark standard was first awarded to the Customer Services team in April 2008.
For the council to retain the Charter Mark, it had to undergo a rigorous inspection by an external assessor. The council was praised for its continuous hard work, the commitment of the whole Customer Services team and their excellent customer focus.
The assessment focused on the council's customer service in six key areas: setting standards, working with customers, accessibility and choice, development and improvement, effective use of resources and improving opportunities in the community.
Cllr. Simon Moores, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: "We're delighted to have retained our Charter Mark status. It shows that the customer comes first and that our staff are willing to go the extra mile to make their visit to the council a pleasant one. I'm very proud of all the staff who have worked so hard to keep this award for a second year. It just goes to prove how committed they all are to providing local residents with the best possible level of service."
Organisations that achieve the standard have the right to display the prestigious Charter Mark logo.
COMPULSORY PURCHASE FOR CLIFTONVILLE EYESORE
A major eyesore property in Cliftonville has been compulsorily purchased in a deal secured as part of Thanet District Council's empty property strategy.The former Warren Court Hotel in Arthur Road has been derelict for more than five years and, during that time, has been the victim of two fires.
The council began Compulsory Purchase Order proceedings and the order was confirmed by the Secretary of State. However, prior to its implementation, an agreement was reached, on a voluntary basis, with the owners of the property for them to sell it to the Town and Country Housing Group.
Town and Country will now be working with the council to submit a planning application to redevelop the site, with work expected to start shortly on clearing the site and making it secure.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "This is great news, as this is one of our remaining major targets in our empty property strategy. We've already successfully tackled some of the biggest eyesore properties in Cliftonville, with 77 Eastern Esplanade and 12 - 15 Cliff Terrace both brought back into use, as a result of the council's work. I'm delighted that soon we'll be adding the former Warren Court Hotel to this list of our achievements."
MARGATE WELCOMES VOLLEYBALL STARS OF THE FUTURE
Beach volleyball players of the future will be taking to the sand the day before the Margate Masters Beach Tournament arrives in the town.The event, which takes place on Margate Main Sands over the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June, will see the country's best players will be fighting it out to be national champions. The event is the first stop for this summer's Volleyball England Beach Tour Open and the only one in the south east of England.
The Margate Masters Schools Beach Volleyball Competition will take place in the main arena on Friday 26 June between 11am and 3pm, with players from secondary schools across Thanet competing.
The event is being organised by Thanet District Council's Sport Matters team, with support from Kent County Council's Sports Development Unit and the Thanet School Sports Partnership. Free water will be supplied by Sainsbury's Westwood.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "This is a great opportunity for young people to take part in a major sporting event right on their doorstep on one of the area's most beautiful beaches. We're delighted to be welcoming the Volleyball England Beach Tour Open back to Margate Main Sands. The feedback we had about last year's event was excellent and it was a great success. We look forward to building on that and making this year's event even better. With the country's top players and an excellent venue on our stunning Main Sands, it's sure to be a superb weekend."
Last year's event was described by Volleyball England as the best Beach Tour Open ever held.
Financial Services
The Financial Services team is responsible for producing the Council's annual financial statements and the budget (including fees and charges). The team administers payments for invoices raised to the Council and also carries out the Council's treasury management functions.The Financial Services team aim to:
provide high quality, cost effective, professional and timely financial services to the Council and it's Members.
support the Corporate Director (Resources) in ensuring the proper administration and stewardship of the Council's Financial Affairs.
ensure that all aspects of the Section's service delivery are user orientated and place a high value on the views, needs and requirements of its users.
The Council has set a number of strategic financial objectives
AUDIT OF ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2009
Audit Commission Act 1998, sections 15 - 16 Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003 Regulations 13, 14 & 16
The Council’s accounts are subject to external audit by Andy Mack, District Auditor of Audit Commission, 16 South Park, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AN. Members of the public and local government electors have certain rights in the audit process:
From 23 June 2009 to 20 July 2009 between 9.00 am and 4.30 pm each weekday any person may inspect the accounts of the Council for the year ended 31 March 2009 and certain related documents (comprising books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers and receipts) at the address given below. They may also make copies of the accounts and documents.
From 10am on 21 July 2009 until the conclusion of the audit process, a local government elector for the area of the Council, or his/her representative, may ask the auditor questions about the accounts. Please contact the auditor at the address given above to make arrangements to ask any questions. The District Auditor will also be available for this purpose at the address given below from 10am to 4pm on 21 July 2009.
From 10am on 21 July 2009 until the conclusion of the audit process, a local government elector for the area of the Council, or his/her representative, may object to the Council’s accounts asking that the auditor issue a report in the public interest (under section 8 of the Audit Commission Act 1998) and/or apply to the court for a declaration that an item in the accounts is contrary to law (under section 17 of the Audit Commission Act 1998). Written notice of a proposed objection and the grounds on which it is made must be sent to the auditor at the address given above and copied to me at the address given below.
Dated: 1 June 2009
Sue McGonigal, Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Thanet District Council, Cecil Street, Margate, Kent, CT9 1XZ (telephone no. 01843 577790)
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
16/06/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Jun 16 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Last weeks planning applications
12 Jun 2009 A/TH/09/0427UNIT S, WESTWOOD RETAIL PARK, MARGATE ROAD,BROADSTAIRS
Ed the TDC planning website is one of the most bizarre websites I have ever come across in as much as the web addresses of the pages on it change after a few hours so you can’t publish links to them.If you want to look at any of the applications you need to go to the site and enter the application reference in the search box, this link takes you to the site http://www.ukplanning.com/thanet
Friday, 12 June 2009
Stephen Ladyman MP joins celebrities for the ultimate charity cook book
South Thanet MP and Vice Chair of the Labour Party Stephen Ladyman has joined Prime Minister Gordon Brown and 100 other celebrities and military servicemen and women to help cook up the perfect fund-raising book for the Help for Heroes charity.Food For Heroes is the cookery book equivalent of the X Factor chart-topping single Hero. Published by Accent Press on June 26 2009 to coincide with the first official Armed Forced Day, all profits from the book are being donated to the help for Heroes charity to help wounded military personnel.
Steve was invited by the book’s author, Squadron leader Jon Pullen, to join the ranks of political leaders, world famous celebrities and servicemen and women who were asked to contribute. Local author Jane Wenham-Jones first put Jon in contact with Steve.
They were all asked who their hero is and why plus what they would like to cook for them.
For Steve it was Donald Campbell – the only man to set land and water speed records in the same year – who he would serve Tex Mex Spicy Balls with Tomato Salsa.
Other well-known contributors include political leaders Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg, celebrities Ewan McGregor, Fern Britton, Bruce Forsyth, David Jason, Ross Kemp and Judi Dench, sports personalities Ricky Hatton, Colin Jackson and Steven Redgrave and top chefs Paul Gayler, Anton Mossiman, Ainsley Harriott and Brian Turner.
Steve said, ‘I chose Donald Campbell because as a boy he was the ultimate hero for me. When it dawned on me after the Bluebird crashed on Coniston Water that he was mortal like the rest of us, my admiration for the way he lived only increased’.
He added: ‘I was honoured to be asked to take part in such an important fund-raising book and be featured alongside so many household names. I hope my small contribution will enable Jon and Help for Heroes to reach their £100,000 target and continue the great work they are doing to help our wounded’.
The book can be purchased from the website http://www.foodforheroes.co.uk/ and all good booksellers priced £14.95.
For more information contact;
Stephen Ladyman MP;
Address: 28-30 Newington Road, Ramsgate, Kent, CT12 6EE.
Tel 01843 852696
Email: http://www.stephenladymanMP@souththanetlabour.org.uk/
Web: http://www.stephenladyman.info/
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