Very Proud to become the President of the Kent Federation of Amenity Societies (KFAS)

Laura Sandys is to be President of the Kent Federation of Amenity Societies (KFAS). She is the daughter of Duncan Sandys, who in 1956 founded the Civic Trust, which instigated the post-war civic amenities movement. She takes up the appointment following the death of Lord Sandy Bruce-Lockhart, KFAS’ previous President.

In accepting the appointment, Laura Sandys said: “Sandy Bruce-Lockhart was a towering figure and I know such a real asset to the Amenity and Civic Societies in Kent and is a hard act to follow. But I will give it all my best efforts to support you all and work for our common good!”

John Walker, Chairman of KFAS said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that Laura Sandys has agreed to act as our President. Her commitment to the county of Kent, and to the Civic Society movement in general is very well known. Her previous involvement with the Civic Trust and with the new Civic Society Initiative has given her an insight into the issues that the civic society movement now faces and this will be enormously helpful to the KFAS in the years ahead.

Laura is very aware of the need to reverse the recent trend to regionalisation and to return as many powers as possible to the county councils and local authorities. Like Sandy Bruce-Lockhart she is an excellent public speaker and is very approachable as a person. All these qualities combine to make her a very worthy successor to our former President.’

New documents published by Thanet District Council,

28/08/2009 - Decision Published: Approval to allow the Churches Together in Ramsgate the use of Pier Yard to hold their annual Hymns by Torchlight evening on Sunday 13 September 2009.

28/08/2009 - Issue Published: Approval to allow the Churches Together in Ramsgate the use of Pier Yard to hold their annual Hymns by Torchlight evening on Sunday 13 September 2009.

26/08/2009 - Meeting held: Aug 26 2009 5:00PM, Airport Working Party

26/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 18 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

26/08/2009 - Meeting held: Aug 26 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

25/08/2009 - Decision Published: Approval for exemption of harbour dues and parking fees.

25/08/2009 - Issue Published: Approval for exemption of harbour dues and parking fees.

24/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jul 28 2009 5:00PM, Asset Management Working Group

26/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 18 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

SIGN UP AS COMMUNITY CRIME FIGHTERS

Local people are being given the chance to sign up as Community Crime Fighters to help the fight against crime and anti-social behaviour in their community.

A training session is being held on Tuesday 13 October in Brighton between 9am and 4.30pm. It's free to attend, with lunch and refreshments provided, and the Thanet Community Safety Partnership is looking to get 10 people from Thanet who want to attend, so that they can provide a free minibus to take them. The scheme is aimed at people who are already actively involved in their community and want to do more to tackle the problems in their area.

The training programmes look at the various powers available to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime, the help available to victims and witnesses and ways to get the best out of local organisations.

Community Crime Fighters were introduced as part of the government's Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Areas, with Thanet the only pioneer area in Kent.

More than 2,000 people have been trained across the UK to date and, of those, more than 90% said they found the training left them better prepared to play a role in helping to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in their area.

Cliftonville resident, Lynn Repeti, who is the chair of the Surrey Road Action Group, attended a previous community crime fighters event in Southampton. She said: "I found the event I attended very helpful and informative. It was good to see all walks of life together and showing an interest in their communities. I learnt a lot about the policing pledge and how to get more involved in my community. I would encourage other residents to attend this free event in Brighton".

If you are interested in attending the training event in Brighton and becoming a Community Crime Fighter, contact Tiffany on 01843 577910.

WHEELIE BIN ROLL-OUT

Another 2,000 homes will be receiving details about their new wheeled bin service from the council over the first two weeks of September.

The second part of the current roll-out of the scheme will see an extra 2,250 properties in Ramsgate receiving leaflets between Tuesday 1 and Friday 11 September, explaining how the service works. There will also be an information day for people to come along and find out more on Saturday 19 September between 11am and 1pm in Ellington Park, near the bandstand.

Collections for these homes are due to begin in late October / early November. Under the scheme, waste that cannot be recycled is collected one week from the black lidded bin, while recyclable items, such as recycling plastic bottles, tins, cans, paper and cardboard, are then collected the following week in the blue lidded bin.

From Monday 7 September, 1,350 properties in Birchington, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Margate, Manston, Westbrook and Garlinge will be starting collections on the wheeled bin scheme.

To add these properties, changes are also being made to the current refuse collection, with changes to the day of collection for 5,000 homes which are still on the black bag scheme and 9,000 homes which are on the separate paper and cardboard collection rounds. Those properties affected by this change have already receiving leaflets, explaining the details.

Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "This second part of our autumn wheeled bin roll-out will get 2,250 more homes on to this scheme and we are continuing to try to find the means to add a further 1,000 properties next spring. We're aware that people want to get their wheeled bins and that's why we are doing our best to make the most of our existing waste collection resources to extend the wheeled bins to as many properties as possible without incurring additional costs."

By the time the latest roll-out is completed, 45,200 homes across Thanet will be on the wheeled bin scheme, covering just over 70% of the households in Thanet.

FUNDING FOR PEOPLE'S PRIORITIES

Funding has been put into local people's priorities to help improve Thanet and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

Residents were asked what their priorities were earlier this year, with anti-social behaviour and criminal damage concerning more than 80% of people who responded. More than 60% were concerned about violent attacks and nuisance vehicles, while dog fouling and litter were also identified as other problems in the area.

As part of the consultation, people were also asked for their views on how £20,000 from the Home Office, which was part of Thanet's successful bid to be a Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Area, should be allocated. Nine ideas were put forward, following feedback from local PACT (Partners and Communities Together) panels, local residents and councilors.

Following that, the community safety team has distributed biodegradable dog fouling bags to vets surgeries in Thanet.

Another popular option was adding shrubbery and, as a result, money has been given to local groups, including the Spencer Square Residents Association and the Chichester Road Flowers Group in Ramsgate, as well as Nethercourt caravan park in Ramsgate, for plants in those areas.

Crime contact cards have also been developed, which provide people in Cliftonville West with contact details for their local PC's, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), community wardens and thanet councils number. Lockable notice boards have also been installed in Dane Valley

Community Safety Coordinator Jessica Bailey said: "We've listened to local people's views on projects that would make a difference to their lives and help to further improve safety in Thanet. The figures already tell the story of how much of a difference we've made to people's lives, with criminal damage halved, burglaries down by 70% and violent attacks cut by a quarter since last year."

She added: "It's clear that dog fouling, in particular, is an issue that really matters to residents and that's why we've introduced the biodegradable dog bags. You only have to look at the figures to see that it is an issue in Thanet. Last year, Thanet's dog wardens issued 70 tickets to people who failed to pick up after their dogs, compared to just eight in Canterbury and four in Dover."

SUCCESS FOR RENEWAL SCHEME

A council scheme to help regenerate some of Thanet's most deprived areas has seen almost £1.1 million invested, with an additional £350,000 committed by property owners.

Phase one of the Margate Central and Cliftonville West renewal programme was launched in 2005, with the Council agreeing a £1 million programme of grants, to assist property owners improve the safety or external appearance of their buildings. The other three phases of the renewal programme were launched in 2008.

The programme will come to an end in March 2010 and, over the time it has been in place, the programme has been fully allocated, with the additional money spent coming from Regional Housing Board Funds.

The Renewal Area Grants scheme is just one initiative aimed at improving housing and social conditions in one of Kent's most deprived neighbourhoods. Over recent years, the council has focussed on tackling empty and derelict buildings that have blighted some streets. Initiatives to tackle environmental problems and improve the appearance of the area have been backed up with a regime of regulating private sector landlords to ensure that properties are kept in good repair. Loans and grants have been made available to landlords to improve housing conditions for their tenants.

As well as improving the quality of housing in the area, work has also focused on reducing crime in the area, improving waste and recycling and improving the green spaces within the area. A number of Operation Clean Sweeps have taken place in these areas, tackling a range of anti-social issues, including dealing with housing and planning enforcement issues, dumped rubbish and improving fire safety measures.

Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "There's no doubt the Renewal Area Grant scheme has been a huge success and has improved the appearance of many streets in the area. We have a long way to go to tackle the underlying problems faced in these areas but small initiatives like improvement grants make important contributions raising standards and making Cliftonville and Margate a better place to live. We would love to continue the scheme beyond the £1m that has already been spent, but we can only afford to do this by selling other assets."

CONDITIONAL DISCHARGE OVER GAMING MACHINES

A Margate man has been given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £120 costs, after pleading guilty to having gaming machines with no licence on his premises.

Margate Magistrates Court were told that the machines were found by licensing officers at Papps Fish Bar in Belgrave Road, Margate, after the permit to have them had expired. Zacharias Pavlou (72) of Belgrave Road, Margate was originally issued with a permit, valid for three years, in June 2006.

The Gambling Act 2005 came into force in September 2007 and, under these new regulations, small restaurants and takeaways that do not supply alcohol, were prevented from having gaming machines. It would not be possible to renew permits issued prior to the introduction of the new Act.

The permit for Papps Fish Bar expired on 21 May 2009 and on 3 June 2009, an officer from the council's licensing team visited the premises and explained the change in the law and that the machines should be switched off and removed from the premises.

A further conversation was held with Mr. Pavlou to explain the situation and another visit was made to the premises on 25 June 2009, where officers found the machines still installed and working. Since that visit, the machines have been removed from the shop.

Cllr. John Kirby, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services & Ramsgate Marina, said: "It's a shame that we had to take action in this case, particularly as the machines have now been removed from the premises. The Gambling Act 2005 did bring a number of changes and this is one that affected small restaurants and takeaways that didn't sell alcohol. Our licensing team does an excellent job of communicating these changes and will always help people to try and understand the changes in the law and the implications for their businesses."

FINE OVER MISSING PLATE

A private hire driver from Ramsgate has been fined £70 and ordered to pay £80, after failing to return his private hire identification plate.

Margate Magistrates Court heard last week (Thursday 20 August) that Hardeep Sandhu (25) from West Dumpton Lane, Ramsgate had renewed his private hire vehicle licence for a Kia car in June 2008. This expired on 31 May 2009.

On 22 June 2009, the council wrote to Mr. Sandhu, requiring the return of the plate within seven days. The plate was not returned and a formal notice was issued on 6 July 2009, but the plate was still not returned, so court proceedings were started.

Mr. Sandhu pleaded guilty and was fined £70 and ordered to pay £80 costs to the council. The plate was returned to the council two days before the hearing.

Cllr. John Kirby, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services & Ramsgate Marina, said: "It's important that we take action in cases such as this, as the vehicle licence plate is one of the things that people can use to identify properly registered private hire vehicles. If we don't take action when drivers continue to hold on to a vehicle licence plate, then they could continue to use it, without the council carrying out the necessary checks on both the driver and their vehicle."

Council office re-opens

Council Offices & telephones reopen The all- clear has now been given following a bomb scare that closed the Margate Council offices and Gateway today.

Thanet Council services have now fully resumed following the evacuation of all council staff from the main Margate offices this afternoon (Tuesday 25 August).

The evacuation affected all frontline council services for a period of just under two hours, including operation of Thanet’s Gateway Plus and the council’s main call centre.

Chief Executive of Thanet District Council, Richard Samuel said: “I’d like to apologise to any our customers who were affected by today’s events. Our services were directly impacted by this emergency evacuation, and would have meant anyone trying to contact the council by phone or call into the Gateway would have been unable to do so.

I would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this time and would like to re-assure all our customers that they can now expect a full return to normal council services."

Ed. Picture shows some of the bombs dropped on Thanet 17th May 1915.

MP welcomes vital local road announcement

MP Welcomes key road announcement as £87m road scheme gets the go ahead.Local MP, Stephen Ladyman, has welcomed today's announcement that the Government has given final approval to fund phase 2 of the East Kent Access Road Scheme:"

This is one of the key transport improvements in my constituency that I have been campaigning for since I first became involed in public life in South Thanet back in the early 90s. We already have phase one of this road scheme completed and the final section of this piece of the jigsaw puzzle can now get underway.

"Phase 2 of the East kent Access Road scheme links phase 1 at Ebbsfleet, Prospect Inn at the edge of the airport and Lord of the Manor at Ramsgate. It will mean when it is complete that hold ups for Pfizer traffic will at last be a thing of the past and will complete the link between the A299 and Port Ramsgate bringing economic benefits to the Port and the Airport."

The Government has agreed to fund £81.25m of the stimated £87.443m cost. They have also agreed an extra £0.850m towards the schemes preparatory costs.

I am grateful that Kent Council made this scheme one of their priorities but I hope that they are grateful that without the Government agreeing to fund the lions share of the cost it would have been impossible to complete.

"Todays announcement will allow KCC to sign a contract with their preferred bidder and begin work in October.

The scheme will not be completed until 2012."This is a huge project of massive importance to our community. This announcement is great news."

For further information:Stephen Ladyman MP01843 85269607768 705606

Action needed to reverse Labour’s binge-drinking culture – says Laura

Alcohol-related violence and yob behaviour can be curbed through tough measures on alcohol

“We need to take real action against the increase in alcohol related crimes and anti-social behaviour in Thanet and Sandwich. That means reforming this Government’s licensing laws that have allowed cheaper alcohol to be available in more places than ever before,” said Laura Sandys, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for South Thanet and Sandwich.

The latest Home Office crime figures have revealed that across Thanet and Sandwich there were 2778 violent attacks last year. Based on Government surveys of crime victims, this suggests that 1306 of these attacks could have been alcohol-related. We also suffer from one of the highest number of alcohol related health conditions in the country.

David Cameron this week has announced a series of measures that we believe will support our commitment to combat anti-social dinking and alcohol fuelled violence. These include:

· Changing the law to stop the ‘loss-leading’ sale of alcohol by retailers.
· Rebalancing the duty on alcohol: reducing rates on low-alcohol beers and ciders, and increasing it on very high-strength products (the likes of Tennent’s Super) and on alcopops.
· Stronger powers and more discretion for elected local councils, and a greater say for local residents on licensing applications.
· Tougher penalties for premises which sell alcohol to under-age drinkers.

Labour’s licensing laws, which came into effect in 2005, have created a presumption in favour of alcohol licences being given out, and imposed tight restrictions on who can object to any licensing application.

The Police Federation has warned that the need to police town centres around the clock is making it harder to answer emergency calls elsewhere.


Laura said:
“Labour’s licensing laws are too lax. We don’t want a return to the old days where every pub shut at 11pm. But our local councils need greater powers to tackle the binge-drinking and violence that plague our town centres. The reckless sale of high-strength, bargain-basement alcohol is damaging health and fuelling violence.

“Conservatives believe that socially responsible adults should be able to have a night out in without fear of violence. Parents should be reassured that their children are not going to come to harm. Thanet and Sandwich’s community pubs should not be tarred with the same brush as irresponsible ‘vertical drinking’ bars selling booze into the early hours. We need to make our town centres feel safe at night once again.”

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/thanet

24 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0143
19 DAVID AVENUE CLIFTONVILLE MARGATE CT93DU
current
24 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0565
23 CRESCENT ROAD RAMSGATE CT119QU
current
24 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0597
FLAT 1 1 ROSELAWN GARDENS MARGATE CT95JD
current
24 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0631
41 KINGSGATE AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT103QP
current
19 Aug 2009
C/TH/09/0617
THE OLD FORGE BUILDINGS, R/O, 26 CHURCH STREET,BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1TT
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0626
LA FALAISE THE PARADE BIRCHINGTON CT79LX
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0634
96 DUMPTON PARK DRIVE BROADSTAIRS CT101RL
current
19 Aug 2009
R/TH/09/0633
25 PALM BAY AVENUE MARGATE CT93DQ
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0525
COURT STAIRS COUNTRY CLUB PEGWELL ROAD RAMSGATE CT110JE
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0529
NASH COURT FARM NASH ROAD MARGATE CT94LA
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0598
86 BELMONT ROAD WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88AZ
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0601
87 HIGH STREET RAMSGATE CT119RJ
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0609
1 THANET ROAD, MARGATE, CT91UA
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0618
62 HARBOUR PARADE RAMSGATE CT118LN
current
19 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0632
GARAGES AT LUTON AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 2DH
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0503
THE WINDMILL, 45 NEWINGTON ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6EW
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0577
HAMLIN COURT, 142 NEWINGTON ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6PS
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0578
13 WEST CLIFF ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1PU
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0583
62 WESTOVER GARDENS BROADSTAIRS CT103EY
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0584
29 ST. MICHAELS AVENUE MARGATE CT93UH
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0604
140 & 142 RAMSGATE ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 2ER
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0606
29 ALBERT ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT103HY
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0611
10 BURGESS CLOSE, MINSTER, RAMSGATE, CT12 4BD
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0613
26 PRINCES GARDENS, MARGATE, CT9 3AR
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0614
8 CHANTRY PARK, SARRE, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 OLG
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0615
SCOUTS HUT, CALLIS GRANGE COUNTY PRIMARY SCHOOL,BEACON ROAD, BROADSTAIRS
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0620
27-29 CHAPEL PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 9SD
current
17 Aug 2009
F/TH/09/0621
VIADUCT 201 ST. LUKES AVENUE RAMSGATE CT117HS
current
17 Aug 2009
L/TH/09/0610
4 ASHBURNHAM ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 OBN
current
17 Aug 2009
L/TH/09/0619
27-29 CHAPEL PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 9SD
current
17 Aug 2009
R/TH/09/0558
MANSTON COURT GARAGE MANSTON ROAD MANSTON RAMSGATE CT125BH
current

Council win legal battle

A Ramsgate man has been ordered to pay £25,000 in damages and interest and almost £4,000 in costs, following a long-running case over the use of a garden to keep scrap cars.

Thanet District Council first issued an enforcement notice against Anthony Thomas over his property in Ebbsfleet Lane, Ebbsfleet in 2005. It came after complaints from the general public about the number of cars being kept in the garden of the property.

He failed to comply with the notice and the council attempted to prosecute him for non-compliance. However, on a number of occasions, he failed to appear at Thanet Magistrates Court, citing ill health, meaning the case was not heard.

As a result, the council took direct action and carried out the work required in the enforcement notice. Officers, accompanied by the police and baliffs, visited the property in February 2007, and removed a total of 24 cars. Mr. Thomas was allowed to keep four cars on the property.

Following this, a claim was taken out by Mr. Thomas against the council, with the council taking out a counter-claim. Again, on a number of occasions, the case had to be deferred for a number of reasons.

On Monday (10 August), the case was due to be heard at Canterbury County Court, but Mr. Thomas did not attend. His Honour Judge Murdoch decided there should be no further adjournment of proceedings and instead heard evidence from two witnesses, on behalf of the council.

He struck out Mr. Thomas’ claim against the council and gave judgement for the council, with an order for Mr. Thomas to pay damages to the council of £21,961.25 plus interest, making a total of £25,001.77. He was also ordered to pay the council’s costs of £3,800.

Cllr. John Kirby, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services & Ramsgate Marina, said: “This case sends out a strong message to those who think they can get away with flouting planning laws. The council has an excellent enforcement team, who work exceptionally hard to deal with often very complex issues. As this case shows, it can take a long time to get a result, but we have persevered here and been awarded the money which we are owed. That’s important, because this is council taxpayers’ money that we are talking about here, that everyone contributes towards.”

THOUSANDS DIP AND DUNK IN MARGATE

Thousands flocked to Margate last weekend, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August for the Dippers and Dunkers Festival of New Variety and Burlesque.

The weekend played host to a variety of events, including the ‘Sideshow Illusions’, in the Old Town and over 3,000 visitors viewed the ‘Headless Women’, ‘Girl in a Goldfish Bowl’, ‘Electra’, ‘The Living Half Lady’ and ‘The Mummy, all of which have been restored for a new generation, after originally being viewed at Dreamland in the 1960’s.

On Friday 21 and Saturday 22, the Theatre Royal, Margate hosted the ‘Sassy Seaside Show’, produced by Sword-swallowing 'Miss Behave' and Professor Vanessa from the National Fairground Archive, University Sheffield. With a full house both evenings, the crowds were entertained by Fred Bear & The Bears, Kalki the Hula Girl, Amy G, Amber Topaz, Matt Henham and Bruce Airhead, just to name a few and included magic, acrobatics, aerial displays, glamour and burlesque.
After Saturday night’s performance, the crowd headed down to the Westcoast Bar, for the Balkan Bar Burlesque - a late night-club with a difference, which featured alternative acts for those seen earlier in the evening; featuring the Bears, Madame Galina, Diva Hollywood and Amber Topaz.

Also, as part of the festival for those that have always wanted to try their hand at being a 'Burlesque Performer' beginners workshops were available for men and women, as well as Street Magic Workshops, for the young Derren Brown wannabes. Also available are Circus Workshops, which continue this week until Wednesday 26 August at 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm, at The Community Pharmacy Gallery, 16 Market Place, Margate Old Town. All ages warmly welcome, it’s never too late to run away with the circus.

Over the weekend, The Skin Deep Tattoo exhibition, provided by the National Maritime Museum, in the former Rosebys shop, displayed the history of the tattoo and showed local tattoo art, as well as inviting visitors to have their own tattoos photographed.




Heather Sawney, Arts Development Officer said: “The Festival has been an incredible success, with thousands of people flocking to Margate. The Sideshow Illusions were really popular with visitors, as they haven’t appeared in Margate for 50 years and it was great to have them all together for the first time to entertain a new audience generation. The Sassy Seaside Show was packed, with guests raving about individual acts. This was a just a taster – next year will be a week long event, and plans are already underway.

For more information, visit http://www.dippersanddunkers.org.uk/ or call 0870 264 6111

NEW EVENT OFF TO A SAILING START

A series of new sporting sessions, being held in Margate have got off to a sailing success.

The family sailing sessions have been put together by Margate Yacht Club and Thanet District Council’s Sport Matters team and Thanet Coast Project and aim to give families taster sessions of what is available on their doorstep along the Thanet coast.

They are part of the Sport Matters summer programme, which offers a wide range of activities during the school holidays.

The first sessions were held on Saturday (15 August) and saw 20 adults and children taking to the water in very blustery conditions. Another two sessions are planned for this Saturday (22 August), but have proved to be exceptionally popular and are already fully booked.

Each participant gets fully kitted up in sailing gear and has the change to go on both powered boats and sailing vessels.

The sessions follow a successful joint funding application between the Yacht Club and the council to Sport England for a new safety boat.

Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Cllr Shirley Tomlinson said: “Our Sport Matters team work hard to promote the huge array of sporting opportunities on offer in Thanet and the Coast Project help to raise awareness of the coastal environment. It may sound like a cliché, but there really is something for everyone. This session proves that some sports are more accessible than people think. The beauty of sailing is that it makes full use of our beautiful natural environment. Perhaps, best of all, it also shows the enjoyment that families can have together through sport.”

Margate Yacht Club is keen to attract new members and offers very affordable ways to get involved. To find out more, contact 01843 292602 or visit www.margateyachtclub.org .

KENT’S LARGEST ASBO APPLICATION BRINGS RESULTS

Anti-social behaviour orders have been handed out to five youths responsible for numerous acts of anti-social behaviour in Newington, in a civil case brought by the Thanet District Council and supported by Kent Police, on behalf of the Thanet Community Safety Partnership.

The case is the largest multi-ASBO application in Kent, with the partnership gathering evidence over the last year from CCTV footage, along with statements from witnesses, who include police officers, police community support officers and the council’s community wardens. The group were members of a gang on the Newington estate, who were responsible for a series of incidents, which included harassment, intimidation, threatening and abusive behaviour, throwing missiles, vandalism and criminal damage.

The five who received the anti-social behaviour orders were Danny Holloway Jnr. (18) of Harbour Street, Ramsgate, Jay Holloway (22) of St. John’s Avenue, Newington, Aston Cocks (16) of The Centre, Newington, Ricky Diggins (15) of Auckland Avenue, Newington, Alan Meechan (22) of The Centre, Newington.

The conditions imposed by District Judge Turner at Folkestone Magistrates Court on Friday (21 August) afternoon at the conclusion of the trial were that they cannot meet with two or more other people and threaten, insult, abuse people, throw missiles or damage property. They are also prohibited from standing or loitering on the pavement outside the Spar shop in the Centre in Newington, with both orders running for two years until 20 August 2011. The five were also banned from entering the Spar shop for a year.

A bind over was agreed by the court for Andrew Morris (22) from Weyburn Drive, Newington. This means that a deal has been signed with the court and if he breaks the restrictions on him, he will be required to pay a fine of £200 to the court.

Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "I’d like to thank everyone who’s been involved in helping the council and Kent Police to achieve this excellent result. We’re committed to tackling anti-social behaviour in Thanet to ensure that the area is a safe place to live, work and visit. This gang was making life miserable for residents on the Newington estate and we’ve worked hard – and very closely – with local residents to help bring that gang culture to an end. It has taken a long time to get this result, but now that we have got a result, it should help to improve people’s lives on the Newington estate.”

Sergeant Phil Morley from Kent Police said: "I am pleased with the result in court. It reflects the months of work involved in the case by police, council and other agencies. Those who have been given ASBOs need to reflect on their previous behaviour and make changes to adhere to conditions imposed on them, I am confident that this case will send out a message to others who commit anti-social behaviour, not only in Newington, but in all areas of Thanet.

I would like to thank all residents who have supported the case, as we know it has been very difficult for them.”

SUMMER SLAM

Thanet’s biggest sports event for the whole family to enjoy over thesummer holidays will be taking place in Margate next week (Thursday 27August).

Running from 1pm to 6pm on Thursday 27 August, the ‘Family SummerSlam’ will be held on the old cricket pitch, behind the swimming pool,in Hartsdown Park.

This free fun day out is organized by the ThanetSports Network, and aims to promote sport and healthy living within thedistrict.Charlton Football Club will be bringing their inflatable footballpitches and access will be available to one half of the Hartsdown SportsHall where Thanet Leisure Force will be on hand, with dance mats androwing machines,Thanet District Council’s Sport Matters team will be holdingvolleyball matches, tug of war games, ultimate Frisbee, handball and youcan try out giant board games while Atlantis Entertainment will berunning gladiator duels, pedal go-karts and bungee runs.

There are also over 15 local sports clubs showcasing their activitiesincluding Margate Yacht Club, Revolution Skate Park, Thanet WanderersRugby Club, Nelson Riding Centre and the Broadstairs and St. Peter’sTennis Club.

The Thanet Coast Project and Pie Factory Music will also bepresent.

Registration is completely FREE on the day from 1pm - 6pm.

For moreinformation please contact 01843 577032 or visit www.thanet.gov.uk/sport

For full details of what’s on for youngpeople in Thanet this summer, visit http://www.thanetyouthmatters.co.uk/ or pickup a copy of Youth Matters.

To get one, call 01843 577050.

NIGHT-TIME FLYING POLICY

Thanet District Council will be consulting with local residents after receiving a proposal from Infratil, the owners of Kent International (KIA), to adopt a formal night-time flying policy in line with the Section 106 agreement in place at the airport. This would allow flights to operate from the airport between 6am and 11.30pm which is one hour earlier, and half an hour later than the existing arrangements in place.

Current operations at Kent International are subject to a Section 106 agreement established between the council and a previous airport operator in September 2000. This arrangement allows flights to operate 24 hours a day, but restricts the scheduling of aircraft between 11pm and 7am. An extension to allow for scheduling between 6am and 11.30pm was approved in principle by the council in February this year for British Airways Cargo, but the company did not ultimately relocate its operations to Thanet.

As part of this proposal, Infratil is also looking to introduce a formal noise quota system. This is used by many UK airports including Bournemouth and Bristol to restrict the amount of night-time noise generated by the operation of an airport. The current system in place at KIA requires operators of the noisiest aircraft types to contribute to a community fund. The penalties double each time the same registered aircraft operates between 11pm and 7am, which is a system unique to KIA.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Roger Latchford said: “We are keen to hear what the public in Thanet thinks of this proposal and we will ensure a thorough consultation. The airport is an important part of Thanet’s economy and we are keen to make sure that any future developments are considered carefully and take into account the views of local people. The council has been asked to consider extending operating hours before, but only following direct approaches from aircraft operators. This now enables us to give the proposal full consideration, without the pressure of a specific request. I hope that residents will take the opportunity to get involved over the coming months.”

Matt Clarke, Chief Executive of Kent International Airport, said: “Our aim is to provide the airport with a level playing field which will enable us to develop the business and maximise the economic benefits to Thanet. Presently we are competing for business at a significant disadvantage with unique restrictions not applicable to other airports.

“It is not widely known that an element of the current system means that regular operators face a potential bill of over £4 million per annum if just one flight per month suffers a delay. It is not hard to see why a regime like that adds difficulty to attracting new business and we are pleased to be able to work with the council and the community to agree to appropriate controls which provide a workable balance between airport growth and environmental restrictions.”

The council will be engaging in a comprehensive public consultation process. Details of the process and how to be involved will be announced following a meeting of the council’s Airport Working Party.

New documents published by Thanet District Council,

14/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 6 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet

11/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jul 23 2009 7:00PM, Council

11/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 4 2009 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

19/08/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Aug 19 2009 7:00PM, Planning Committee

18/08/2009 - Meeting held: Aug 18 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

17/08/2009 - Publication of plan: Forward Plan for period from 1 September 2009 to 1 March 2010

17/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 4 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board

17/08/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 18 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

17/08/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 26 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee

14/08/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Aug 6 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet

DIPPERS AND DUNKERS HITS MARGATE THIS WEEKEND

A major new festival, Dippers and Dunkers is coming to Margate this weekend, so don’t miss your chance to see the ‘headless woman’, the Skin Deep Tattoo exhibition, or take part in Burlesque and Circus Workshops, as well as much more.

Dippers and Dunkers takes its name from the town’s history as a sea bathing destination and runs from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 August. Aiming to acknowledge the heritage of Margate’s seaside traditions with a contemporary twist, the festival is being coordinated by Arts Development at Thanet District Council, with wide-spread support and funding including Margate Charter Trustees and EKLAAP. It’s hoped it will be a taster event for a full week long event in 2010.

International New Variety and Burlesque performers will descend on the Theatre Royal Margate on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 August, to perform in the specially created 'Sassy Seaside Show' produced by Sword-swallowing 'Miss Behave' and Professor Vanessa from the National Fairground Archive, University Sheffield. The show includes magic, acrobatics, aerial displays, glamour and burlesque.

The Festival will also bring back the incredible Slideshow Illusions that were in Dreamland in the 1950s, including the famous 'Woman in a Goldfish Bowl' and the amazing "headless" and "legless" women. Street magic and circus skills workshops are amongst the other highlights in the festival and these start from Monday 17 August to Wednesday 26 August.

For those that have always wanted to try their hand at being a 'Burlesque Performer' beginners workshops are available for men and women, their are suitable for all sizes and abilities.Prior to the Dippers and Dunkers weekend itself, people can visit the touring exhibition from the National Maritime Museum, Skin Deep, in the windows of the former Roseby’s shop in the Centre, Margate until Sunday 6 September, and the FREE exhibition traces the history of its tattoo and will showcase the best of local tattoo art. During the weekend itself, between 10am and 5pm, you can share the history of your own tattoos with the opportunity to have it photographed.

Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “Dippers and Dunkers promises to be one of the most colourful and unique highlights of Margate’s packed programme of events. The idea behind this festival is wonderful and it’s great to see Margate’s illustrious history as a superb seaside destination being showcased in this way.

It fits in perfectly with the plans to create the world’s first amusement park of historic rides at Dreamland and I look forward to enjoying what’s on offer over the weekend.”For more information, visit www.dippersanddunkers.org.uk or call 0870 264 6111.

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/thanet

13 Aug 2009
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LYMINGTON ROAD

New slides, climbing frames, roundabout, springy rockers and a brand new ball court are just some of the exciting new additions to a playground in Westgate.

The Lymington Road playground, which has seen extensive improvements and renovations over the last year, was officially re-opened last week (Friday 7 August) and is open for business for children and young people of all ages and abilities.

The new facilities on offer include a ship theme climbing frame with slide, sea saw and springy rockers for the very young, an unusual bespoke large climbing frame and slide for those a little older and a brand new ball court linking to the existing skate ramps for teenagers.

A special ground level roundabout that is suitable for all abilities including wheelchair users and improvements to the entrance path have also been added to the park to help improve facilities for those with disabilities.

Some of the most popular traditional play items have been retained and revamped in the playground to sit alongside the new equipment and other more general improvements such as a boundary fence dog exclusion area, safer rubber surfacing, additional seating and extra litter bins have also been added.

These changes all come thanks to the hard work of the Lymington Road Park Project Group who have worked closely with the district council to improve facilities on offer for children of all ages across the estate. Total funding in excess of £135,000 has been achieved to fund the project and has come from a variety of sources including Big Lottery Play, Millwood Homes, Kent County Council Community Fund, Thanet District Council and also Ward Councillor allocations. Special thanks also go to County Councillor Rob Burgess for his support with the project group.

Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Cllr Shirley Tomlinson said: “The success of this project is down to the hard work and determination of the local community and is something that residents should feel really proud of. The playground now boasts an exciting range of equipment and play opportunities for children and young people of all ages. Alongside other projects such as those recently completed at Cliftonville and Dane Park in Margate this helps to improve play facilities for children across the whole of the district. I really believe that the efforts of the local community will be rewarded by seeing young children enjoying the park here at Westgate for many years to come.“

The successful partnership is continuing with plans to fund raise for improvements to the skateboard area and swings. Thanet District Council also have a number of schemes in the pipeline for further improvements across the district.

LOCAL SHOWGIRLS NEEDED FOR HEADLESS ILLUSIONS

If you’ve ever wanted to be a Headless Lady, a Girl in a Goldfish Bowl or even a Miss Electra now is the time to start your showgirl career as part of Thanet District Council’s Dippers and Dunkers Festival, running from 17 – 19 August in Margate.

As part of the festival, Sideshow Illusions are looking for three local girls who will be paid to become legless, headless and maybe even get wet as part of the illusions taking place on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 August.

Sideshow Illusions are re-creating five original Sideshows from the 1950’s and 60’s as part of the festival. The shows were originally created by Yorkshire showman, the late, Jon Gresham and first seen at Dreamland.

Jon Marshall, of Sideshow Illusions who discovered the shows and restored them said: “We’d love to hear from anyone who has memories of seeing the sideshows at Dreamland as many local ladies would have been employed, and some may still be around. It’s also a chance for a new generation to see them and it’s great that these original shows are coming back to Margate.

The shows have been in storage since 1969 and the presentation for Dippers and Dunkers Festival is a premiere, the first time they have ever been seen outside for fifty years.

If there are any ladies interested contact Heather Sawney on 01843 577428 or Jon Marshall of Sideshow Illusions 07785260038. An interview will be arranged in Margate – the showgirls must be over 18 and a size 10 – 12, as the costumes have already been made. And, of course, all volunteers will be sworn to secrecy as to how the illusions are achieved!

From more information and programme for Dippers and Dunkers visit http://www.dippersanddunkers.org.uk/

THE ISLAND GUIDE ONLINE

A popular guide to services for older people is now available to view online.

The Island Guide, which was launched in November last year, provides 200 pages of information all targeted specifically for older people and is now featured on its own dedicated website.

The guide is compiled in partnership with Thanet District Council, Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust, KCC Social Services and Orbit South Housing Association. It provides a wealth of information to help people contact support groups, and to access services provided by charitable and voluntary groups in the district.

By visiting http://www.theislandguide.org.uk/ residents now have the chance to easily access a variety of useful information and advice including contacts for health services, housing advice, money matters, as well as ideas for enjoying leisure time and learning something new in retirement.

Keith Harding, 76 from Broadstairs, said: “The Island Guide really is worth its weight in gold. Having all of this information in one central place is invaluable for older residents, particularly for those who may live on their own or don’t have the chance to get out and about as much anymore. I believe it’s a real lifeline to vital information, contacts and advice and hope that Thanet’s older residents really make the most of the guide.”

Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr Zita Wiltshire said: “This third edition of the Island Guide is packed full of useful contacts, information and advice. We know it’s been really popular with older residents here in Thanet and its great to see it all available on the website. We’re really grateful for all of the contributions from the organisations and people who are featured in the guide and for all of the hard work from those who helped to pull it all together.”

Printed copies of the booklets are also still available free of charge and can be collected from all council offices and libraries across Thanet. You can also request a copy by contacting Housing Strategy Officer, Lyn Forster on 01843 577218.

CALLING ALL FUTURE MAGICIANS

Is Harry Potter your children’s hero or do you fancy yourself as the next David Blaine? Then come along to the FREE street magic workshops next week (Monday 17 - Wednesday 19 August from 11am to 2pm.

The street magic workshops form part of the Dippers and Dunkers Festival (17-26 August) and are open to all ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. They will take place at the Community Pharmacy Gallery, 16 Market Place, Margate Old Town.

The workshops will be run by Street Magician Tim, who is an excellent magician and street performer and has run workshops in the UK, Geneva and Dubai.

In order to keep the workshops really magical, we can only have 20 budding magicians at a time and to ensure you have a great session and can learn as much as possible, please bring along a 'packed lunch'. Magic students must also be prepared to commit to the workshop from Monday 17 August to Wednesday 19 August, with a culmination of all the tricks learnt in a demo on The Piazza on The Parade, Margate on the Wednesday afternoon.

Book early to reserve your place by emailing heather.sawney@thanet.gov.uk or calling 01843 577428.

To find out more about the Dippers and Dunkers Festival visit www.dippersanddunkers.org.uk.

URBAN SPORTS EVENT 2009

BMX, in-line skating and skateboarding were just some of the activities which over 60 local youngsters took part in at last week’s Urban Sports Event.

The free event, which was funded and organised by Thanet District Council’s Sports Matters Team, gave local youngsters the chance to take part in activities, competitions and coaching sessions all featured around the popular urban sports theme and all set to popular urban music.

Coaching areas were provided for those who wanted to brush up on their skills while those with more experience were able to compete against each other on the main ramps with fabulous urban themed prizes on offer for the winners including hoodies, t-shirts, arm pads, stickers and wallets!

This is the second year the event has been held at the Lymington Road Skate Park and is carried out in partnership with Revolution Skate Park and Pipeline Youth initiative.

Mr Benson, a parent of one of the BMX participants said ‘As a previous skater myself there was never anything like this when I was growing up. It is great there is a range of things to do for kids especially those not particularly interested in mainstream sports. The Council should do more things like this to encourage kids to get involved and get rid of the bad image.”

Mrs Elassri a parent of 5 and 8 year old children said ‘We have already taken advantage of the surfing sessions and the summer programme is a good way for parents to let their children try an activity without committing lots of money before they know if they’ll like it. Today is a great example where my child had asked to go to Revolution but hadn’t had the opportunity. We will certainly be going now!’

Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Cllr Shirley Tomlinson said: “This is the second successful year of this event and really goes to show how popular urban sports are for our young people. I think it’s really important to provide a wide range of activities and events because people have interests in all areas. Our Sports Matters team deliver an amazing programme of sporting events year round and the activities on offer this summer really are no exception. Providing this type of event not only helps to keep local children occupied during the school holidays but also gives them the option to pursue a healthy lifestyle into adulthood.”

The results of the competitions:

Under 16s BMX = 1st Jack Benson (14),
Over 16s BMX = 1st Sam Everard (15)

Under 16s Skateboard = 1st Ben Greenstreet (12)
Over 16s Skateboard = 1st Greg Burney (16)

All age Scooter = 1st John Luke (14), 2nd Gemma Williams (12), 3rd Sam Richardson (9)

New documents published by Thanet District Council,

10/08/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 19 2009 7:00PM, Planning Committee

07/08/2009 - Decision sheet published: Meeting of Aug 6 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet

06/08/2009 - Meeting held: Aug 6 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet

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/thanet

06 Aug 2009
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SASSY SEASIDE SHOW COMES TO MARGATE

Late night, top-notch magic acts, singing, dancing and cabaret straight from London’s West End will feature in two evening shows, as part of the Dippers and Dunkers Festival, from Friday 21 – Sunday 23 August in Margate.

The Sassy Seaside Show will take to the stage on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 at 7.30pm at the Theatre Royal Margate. Curated by Miss Behave and Co-Produced with Professor Vanessa Toulmin from the National Fairground Archive of Sheffield University, the ‘Sassy Seaside Show’ is specially devised for the Theatre Royal Margate as part of the ‘Dippers & Dunkers’ Festival of New Variety and Burlesque. The show will include both International and National stars of the New Variety scene will descend on the theatre to thrill, titillate and astound, many hot-footing it from ‘Head-lining’ in La Clique at the Hippodrome London, Showzam and the Edinburgh Festival.

Fred Bear + Bears
Fred Bear MCs the evening’s activities. In a skinny-obsessed age, follow the Bears, these intrepid chunky heart-throbs, as they free the food fascists from their fear of pies, showing that burlesque is totally embracing of all shapes and sizes. Who ate all the pies? They have…and can they have some more please?

Kalki the Hula Girl
hails from Melbourne, Australia. Combined with her longtime love of dance, dress up and all things carnival, her hoops have propelled her around the world several times; from the stages of NYC with the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, via Alaska with Circus Boreal back to the cafes, bars and festivals of hometown Melbourne and at the sell-out La Clique show in Edinburgh 2008.

Marisa Carnesky is an Olivier Award Winner and Producer. The kooky and bizarre show-woman and magicienne teams up with the Insect Circus to present a surreal magic act; featuring giant insects, a dolls’ house and a disappearing mystery. They are thrilled to perform together in Margate showing the best of their circus magic.

Amy G
exhibits a fearless mix of physical, musical, stand-up and improvisational comedy and has thrilled audiences all over the world. Most recently she’s been storming London’s West End with the Olivier Award winning (Best Entertainment 2009) circus cabaret, La Clique.

For one night only, Balkan, Bar, Burlesque, will be on Saturday 22 August Balkan, Bar, in the Westcoast Bar, Margate,

A fantastic fusion of Balkan Music with Burlesque Boudoir, bought to you by the infamous Dirty 'Bs' as previously seen at the Belgian Cafe Bar in Ramsgate, Whitstable and at club-nights in London.

Fred Bear is MC and introduces The Bears, the beautiful Amber Topaz and the sensational Madame Galina (the forces sweetheart, who comes straight from entertaining our troops on the front-line in Afghanistan).

Also appearing is Diva Hollywood, who has hot-footed it to Margate, especially for this late show.

Arts Development Officer, Heather Sawney said:” Both these late night shows will add that something extra to the Dippers and Dunkers Festival of New Varity and Burlesque. The acts include International and National stars, celebrating Margate’s heritage with a contemporary twist.

The cabaret will shimmer and shake with a late night offering that will leave you shaken and stirred. Make sure you book your tickets early to avoid disappointed. ”

To book tickets for both shows:

Friday 21 and Saturday 22 August, 7pm to 10.00pm
Theatre Royal Margate, Addington Street, Margate, Kent
Tickets are £15 and £12.50 for concessions
Telephone 0845 130 1786
admin@theatreroyalmargate.com

Saturday 22 August 2009 at 10pm to 3am (Cabaret at 11:30)
Westcoast Bar, 3-5 King Street, Margate, Kent, CT9 1DD
Telephone to book: 07967 028844
Tickets: £8.50 from http://www.westcoastlive.co.uk/
See http://www.dippersanddunkers.org.uk/ for full festival programme details.

LEARN CIRCUS TRICKS OF THE TRADE

If learning how to juggle or ride a unicycle has ever interested you then now is the time with FREE Circus Skills Workshops, as part of the Dippers and Dunkers Festival, brought to you by Thanet District Council.Run by Tina Carter and Steve Taylor , the workshops, aimed at anyone from 7 * 97 will give all participants the opportunity to have a go at juggling, diabolo and devilstick; ride a unicycle, walk on stilts and attempt the tight-rope as well as a bit of hula-hoop and object manipulation.

They will take place from Monday 24 to Wednesday 26 August at 10am to 12.30 and 1:30pm to 4:00pm at The Community Pharmacy Gallery, 16 Market Place, Margate Old Town, CT9 1ES. Children under 14 need to be accompanied by an adult. Also, don’t forget, there will be FREE Ariel Performances over the weekend of Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August on The Piazza, Marine Drive, Margate for five minutes, starting at 11.15am until 5.15pm.

Students from Tina Carter’s AIRHEDZ will be providing aerial performances each hour over the weekend performing from her unique spiral rig. This beautiful aerial sculpture has toured across the UK and has been commissioned by the Greenwich and Docklands Festival, appearing next to Tower Bridge and in Canary Wharf, as well as being a special feature at the Circus Futures festival. Arts Development Officer, Heather Sawney said:

“Roll up, roll up and drop in for FREE circus skills and come along to The Piazza to see the Ariel Performances. There is something for everyone, any age so try and learn juggling, tight-rope walking or just sit back and watch the Ariel Performances.

”Dippers and Dunkers promises to be one of the most colourful and unique highlights of Margate’s packed programme of events so make sure you come down and see what’s going on.”

Smugglers, serpents and sea monsters are just some of the attractions along the Thanet coastline over the next few weeks.

As part of their programme of summer activities, the Thanet Coast Project will be holding a series of Sea Monster Tale-Trails later this month (August). Led by Scandalmongers, this storytelling walk will last for an hour and a half and will discover some of the real sea monsters living along the coast, with the opportunity to create your own monstrous creature.

The first walk takes place on Monday 24 August at Minnis Bay, Birchington, meeting near the tidal pool. The following day, the adventure moves to Dumpton Gap, Broadstairs, meeting at the bottom of the slope and, on Wednesday 26 August, the meeting point is outside the Maritime Museum at Ramsgate Harbour. All walks start at 1pm.

Thanet’s role in illegal activities of days gone by is the focus for Smugglers and Serpents: Stories from the Sea. Led by Scandalmongers, at the one and a half hour sessions, you’ll hear all about smugglers and their hunt for lost treasure.

Two sessions are being held, one on Thursday 27 August and the other on Friday 28 August. Both meet outside the Fayreness Hotel in Kingsgate at 1pm.

To book for any of these activities, visit http://www.thanetcoast.org.uk/

YOUNG PEOPLE GET ACTIVE, NOT BORED!

Nearly 500 young people have taken part in the first two weeks summer holiday activities, organized by Thanet District Council’s Sport 4 NRG.

In the summer holidays so far, Sport 4 NRG has held weekly beach volleyball & beach football sessions on Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Margate beach, along with a range of other outdoor activities for boys and girls including, basketball and football tournaments, rounders, baseball and surfing, sailing and kayaking! And of course, the now famous inflatable football pitch!

There are also “plan B” sessions organised in case of the typical great British wet summer, which includes swimming and ten-pin bowling.

This council funded initiative aims to provide diversionary sporting opportunities for young people aged 11 – 17 to keep them active, occupied and off the streets. The activities are also part of the Engage programme of summer fun for young people, put together by the Thanet Community Safety Partnership, who are working to make Thanet a safer place to live and work.

James Gregory, head of sport 4 NRG said: “We know that the summer holidays can be the time when young people get bored very easily, but this summer has been very different, with at least one sports activity happening every day across Thanet for them. Sport 4 NRG has been a vital part of that and has been doing a great job of helping to keep young people both occupied and entertained, while at the same time, introducing them to a wide range of sporting activities.”

CATCHING THE NIGHT BUS

Almost 150 clubbers in Thanet have been helped home safely thanks to Thanet Community Safety Partnership’s new popular night bus scheme.

Operating for just over three weeks, the night service runs on a Friday and Saturday and allows Thanet residents to hop on from locations all across the district and only costs £2.

The service, funded by Thanet Community Safety Partnership and operated by Eastonways, stops at a number of locations across Thanet including Broadstairs station, St. Peter’s, Northdown Road, Margate seafront, Cecil Square in Margate, Westwood, Staner Court in Ramsgate, and Ramsgate Harbour but home goers can flag the bus down at any point along the route.

Carrie 20 from Ramsgate said: “Using the night bus is a really easy way to get home after a night out. It’s great that it’s only £2 and you can flag it down anywhere on the route. I’ve used it with my friends a couple of times now and it does feel like a safer alternative, especially with a police officer onboard. I hope it carries on after September!”

Jessica Bailey, community safety coordinator, said: "We’re really pleased that so many people have been using the service and that it seems to be making people feel safer on their journey home. We really hope that by introducing schemes like this it will help to reduce the potential for crime in general as well as protecting the security of those on their way home. The message we need to get out to clubbers now is that the bus is just a pilot scheme and if people want to see this continue then we need to know that they are going to continue using it.”

The night bus will operate between 11pm and 3am on Friday and Saturday nights until early September.

Thanet Conservatives recognised in National Award to scrap empty property tax But Laura Sandys and Roger Gale warn that there is more work to be done

South Thanet’s Tory Laura Sandys and North Thanet’s Roger Gale were recognised as leading campaigners against the Government’s empty property tax when the Scrap Empty Property Tax Campaign won Public Affairs News’s Campaign of the Year this month.

The Government was pressurised into a U Turn on their taxation of empty properties for those with less than a rateable value of £15,000 due to the campaigning nationally and in Thanet, Sandwich and Herne Bay.

“The campaign would not have been possible without the support of Roger Gale MP and Laura Sandys PPC, who understand the damage this tax is causing her local high street. It is the real damage that this unfair tax causes that we are fighting against. We are fighting to protect businesses and jobs during the recession.” Said Liz Peace, Director of the British Property Federation.

“It has been a hard won battle with the Government desire to tax empty properties across East Kent at a time when letting properties has become so very difficult. We were thrilled when the Government announced their U-Turn but there is still a lot of work to do to ensure that larger empty properties are also exempted from this tax.” Said Laura Sandys, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for South Thanet and Sandwich.

“With our high streets being featured as some of the most depressed in the country, this is not the time for additional taxation. We will fight on to get the government to relieve all our empty property from taxation to ensure that East Kent buildings do not join the 15 million square foot of property that has been demolished due to landlords not being able to afford the tax on unoccupied buildings.” Said Roger Gale MP for North Thanet and Herne Bay.

Photograph: Meeting between Sandys and Gale with small landlords at a large industrial property that is being taxed although empty.

MINDLESS VANDALISM TO TOILETS

The Public Conveniences in Minnis Bay were badly vandalised this weekend (Sunday 2 August), causing the facilities to now be closed until repair work is completed.

The toilets provide essential facilities to all visitors to Minnis Bay and the surrounding areas, and damage costing hundreds of pounds now needs to be carried to ensure they are suitable for use again.

Ward councilor, Cllr. Roger Latchford said: “It’s really disappointing that yet again toilets have been targeted by what can only be described as mindless vandalism. These toilets are a well used necessity that serve all of the visitors to the area, and are appreciated by members of the public, not to be subjected to thoughtless and costly damage. Each time an incident like this occurs we have to target more time and resources to putting it right which at the moment is an increasing challenge, as well as a burden on budgets that are already very tight. As a council, we are trying to make sure tax payers money is spent wisely, but by having to spend money on repairing mindless vandalism is not money well spent. ”

If anyone sees any member of the public causing any damage please call the police, and to report any act of vandalism please call Thanet District Council’s Waste and Recycling on 577115.

New documents published by Thanet District Council

04/08/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Aug 4 2009 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee
04/08/2009 - Meeting scheduled: Aug 4 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board
29/07/2009 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jun 30 2009 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board 28/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 28 2009 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
28/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 28 2009 5:00PM, Asset Management Working Group

28/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 28 2009 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
28/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 28 2009 5:00PM, Asset Management Working Group
27/07/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 6 2009 7:00PM, Cabinet
27/07/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 4 2009 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Commitee
27/07/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Aug 4 2009 10:00AM, Licensing Board
23/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 23 2009 7:00PM, Council
22/07/2009 - Meeting held: Jul 22 2009 2:00PM, Local Development Framework Working Party

20/07/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jul 28 2009 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
20/07/2009 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jul 28 2009 5:00PM, Asset Management Working Group
20/07/2009 - Agenda supplement published - Agenda Supplement : Agenda Supplement: Meeting of Jul 23 2009 7:00PM, Council