The process to fill a vacancy on Thanet District Council following the sad death of Cllr Brian Goodwin has started. If the election is contested (if there is more than one candidate) then an election to fill the vacancy will be held on Thursday 5 July 2012. Polling will take place at Christ Church Hall, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate, and Westgate Community Centre, Lymington Road, Westgate. Electors will be able to identify which polling station to vote at from information on their poll cards. The hours of poll will be 7am until 10pm. Those electors whose names appear on the Westgate-on-Sea Ward Register of Electors will be able to vote at this election. Residents wishing to check if their name has been included on the Register of Electors or requiring a form to be registered should contact the council on 01843 577500. The deadline for the receipt of applications to be registered as an elector for this election is Wednesday 20 June 2012. The deadlines for the receipt of completed absent voting applications are: ● New postal voter - 5.00pm on Wednesday 20 June 2012; ● New proxy voter - 5.00pm on Wednesday 27 June 2012. Application forms for the absent voting facilities or applications to be registered as an elector are available by contacting the Electoral Registration Officer on 01843 577500 or at electoral.services@thanet.gov.uk.
Thursday, 31 May 2012
ELECTION PROCESS STARTS FOR WESTGATE-ON-SEA WARD
HATE CRIME VICTIM COUNCILLOR MAKES VIDEO APPEAL TO DAVID CAMERON
Thanet councillor John Worrow has made an impassioned plea to Prime Minister David Cameron to take action against attitudes among Thanet’s Tories which, he claims, have led to a “hate crime” against him.
Councillor Worrow was told by police last night (May 30) that they had traced a malicious phone left on his voicemail to Conservative councillor Ken Gregory.
Councillor Gregory left a message saying “With a bit of luck you’ll get aids.”
The police told Mr Worrow that they had decided to let Councillor Gregory off with a caution, as this was his first offence of this kind.
Mr Worrow said Ken Gregory “cannot possibly remain a member of the Conservative Party or a member of Thanet District Council” and said that he expected a full apology at the next council meeting.
Interviewed exclusively by Thanet Watch TV, Mr Worrow addressed David Cameron personally. He asked the Prime Minister to give an assurance that bisexual, gay and other minorities could join the Tory party without experiencing this kind of abuse.
He said he felt he and his colleagues felt there could be a “hate campaign” against them and asked Cameron to contact local Conservatives and tell them to “lay off.”
To see the full interview visit www.thanetwatch.wordpress.com
For the full story of John Worrow’s experiences with North Thanet Conservative Association see this month’s edition of Thanet Watch magazine.
THANET WATCH is on sale in newsagents across Thanet, price 60p.
EDITORS: If you want to follow up on any of the above stories, contact Norman Thomas on 01843 604253 or email him at inmeds@yahoo.co.uk
HOW PUNK CAME TO THANET
In the 1970s a musical and cultural phenomenon first hit Thanet – it was called punk.
In the June issue of Thanet Watch magazine Steven Todd gives a personal account of how punk came to the Isle and how it changed his life.
He recalls some of the early pioneers of the music and revisits the Queens Hotel, Cliftonville, the first major venue for punk in Thanet
“The gigs were a revelation,” he says. “The old audience/band divide vanished. You didn’t watch, you partook.”
He adds: “A new feeling was abroad. The mainstream was redundant, an alternative was needed… this would be punk.”
ALSO IN JUNE THANET WATCH
The June issue of Thanet Watch also tells the astonishingly corrupt story of one of Thanet’s ex-council leaders, how the Isle got its film society and the strange story of the Irish China Gateway
Also: John Worrow exposes the unacceptable face of local Tories.
Plus: a full guide to entertainments and the arts in Thanet this month
Thanet Watch, price 60p, is in newsagents across Thanet now.
For more information ring Norman Thomas on 01843 604 253
Statement from Cllr Bob Bayford
It has come to my
attention that Cllr Ken Gregory has received a police caution for an offence
against another Council member.
The
TDC Conservative Group demands the highest standards of conduct from its
members and I have decided to suspend group membership from Cllr Gregory with
immediate effect, pending further consideration of the situation.
For
the time being, I will assume responsibility for shadowing the Housing and
Planning portfolio.
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
Thanet school girl wins photo comp
Ten-year-old school girl Katie Winkworth, from Monkton near Ramsgate, has been announced as the first winner of a monthly photo competition, run by The Minnis Bar and Restaurant. Katie wins a sumptuous three-course meal for two people. The restaurant, which overlooks Minnis Bay in Birchington, Kent is running the competition to encourage visitors to the area. The competition will run until the end of September. It is free to enter and no purchase is necessary. Entrants simply email their photos to: info@theminnis.com. Leading entries are displayed on The Minnis’ website www.theminnis.com/gallery/photo-competition and monthly winners will receive a free meal for two. An overall winner, to be announced in October will receive a meal for four and an complimentary overnight stay at the legendary overnight stay at the legendary Walpole Bay Hotel in Cliftonville. “The standard of entries is incredibly high, but we chose Kate’s ‘Stepping on Reculver Towers’ because of her appreciation of perspective and the contrast of dark and light,” said The Minnis’ chef patron Jason Freedman. The winning photo depicts Katie’s sister appearing to be about to squash the 12th-century towers of the Reculver’s Roman 'Saxon Shore' fort underfoot, as if it were no more than just a child’s sandcastle. The beachfront Minnis Bar & Restaurant overlooks the golden sands of Minnis Bay in Birchington, with coastal views towards the ruins of the Roman fort at Reculver. The Minnis, which has long been popular with families, has a take-away service for those who wish to have their lunch on the beach and operates a kiosk selling beach toys, inflatables and boats, snacks, seafood and an ice creams in the summer months.
Thanet's jubilee celebrations!
Thanet is celebrating the Diamond Jubilee in style, with an array of
events and activities that promise to thrill local people and visitors
alike.
All the entertainment has been designed to coincide with the Jubilee
Bank Holiday weekend and the half-term holiday, ensuring that there will
plenty to see for families with children.
As part of the Jubilee celebrations in celebrating the ‘Best of
British Spirit’ and due to its popularity, the council’s Visitor
Information Centre team have requested that the Ramsgate Tunnels
Exhibition comes back to Margate’s Droit House, home to the Visitor
Information Centre. Previously on display in February, the exhibition
will show from Friday 1 June to Sunday 10 June and enable people to
learn more about the tunnels’ fascinating history.
Other Jubilee-related events include a ‘Party on the Piazza’ in
Margate’s Old Town on Sunday 3 June, customised postcard-making at the
Turner Contemporary on Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 June and ‘Fair on the
Square’ in Hawley Square Margate on Tuesday 5 June. Also on Monday,
Margate’s beacon will be lit at Fort Crescent to celebrate the
Jubilee.
In Broadstairs, on Saturday 2 June there will be a Jubilee Fair in the
town’s Victoria Gardens and Promenade, while on Sunday 3 June there
will be a service at the Bandstand followed by Street Party and
Strawberry Tea. And for those who love pyrotechnics, there will be a
spectacular fireworks and beacon lighting display at Viking Bay on
Monday 4 June.
In Ramsgate, on Saturday 2 June, six newly-commissioned portraits of
the Queen will be on display at the Great Wall of Ramsgate. There will
also be stalls and entertainment throughout the day.
On Sunday 3 June, thrill-seekers will be entertained by a Diamond
Jubilee Street Party on Ramsgate Boulevard, Ramsgate Promenade and the
Main Sands. And from 10.30am, there will be a Zumba Dance Challenge,
where there will be an attempt to break the record for the biggest
Zumba!
On Thursday 7 June, Ellington Park will host a ‘Jubilee Picnic in The
Park’, featuring Jubilee and Royal-themed fancy dress for all to
enjoy.
Other events taking place over the Jubilee and half-term period include
the fifth annual Margate Meltdown taking place in the Margate Old Town
and Piazza on Monday 4 June, attracting motorbike and scooter
enthusiasts from across the nation. And in Ramsgate, there will be a
‘Great Bucket and Spade Run’ at Government Acre on Sunday 3 June,
featuring classic cars and bikes, children’s entertainment, food, ice
cream, sweet and toffee apples.
Thanet’s villages will also be brimming with entertainment for
everyone to enjoy, including a ‘Street Fayre and Beacon Brazier in
Birchington on Sunday 3 June and Monday 4 June.
These are just some of the many Jubilee-related events happening in
Thanet. Anyone wishing to find out more about the Jubilee and half-term
events taking place in Thanet should visit
www.visitthanet.co.uk/what-to-do/Diamond-Jubilee.
And once all the celebrations are over, those wishing to take the magic
of the Jubilee home with them will find all they need in the council’s
Droit House Visitor Information Centre. Gifts include hand-painted
Jubilee mugs by Dunoon, Jubilee chocolates and ‘Best of British’
souvenirs.
Leader of the council, Cllr Clive Hart, said: “The recent warm
weather has brought the crowds to Thanet, and I know that the Diamond
Jubilee will attract even more visitors. We have so many amazing
attractions and events, people of all ages are spoilt for choice.
“The Jubilee has brought the best in the area, and I know that local
people will gain as much enjoyment as those new to the area.
“The Jubilee will be a spectacular showcase for Thanet, and give us
the chance to tell everyone about all that the area has to offer. And
it’s also an ideal way to celebrate the wonderful community spirit we
have here.”
Kent will have more lit beacons than any other part of the UK to mark
the Diamond Jubilee. Fore more information, visit
www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk.
HOMOPHOBIC ABUSE ALLEGATION
As a Labour Group and a council administration we always want to promote the Equalities and Diversity agenda in our community.
I have been advised that a member of the council alleges he has been a victim of homophobic abuse and has reported the matter to the Police.
I therefore urge all councillors to allow any investigation to run its course and not comment further on this matter, so as not to prejudice the outcome.
Cllr Clive Hart
ON THE COAST WITH THE ROCK DOC
Local people will once again be able to step back in time and discover Thanet’s unique geological history, with the return of the ever-popular ‘Rock Doc’ walks. Organised in partnership by the Thanet Coast project and Rock Doc Limited, the walks are supported by Dong Energy, and are designed to help participants to interpret the coastline of North East Kent European marine sites (NEKEMS). Those who take part in the walks are encouraged to use their imagination and be taken back in time by 80 million years, discovering how Thanet’s distinctive chalk cliffs and amazing fossils were formed. The first walk takes place on the evening of Wednesday 6 June at 6.15pm from the Fayreness Hotel in Broadstairs, and will cover the spectacular Kingsgate coastline. Further walks are planned for Stone Bay (starting from Viking Bay), Minnis Bay in Birchington, and Pegwell Bay within the Sandwich and Pegwell National Nature Reserve, starting from the Viking ship Hugin in Cliffsend. Walks are most suitable for people over 14 years of age, and participants are advised to wear strong walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather condition on the day. During the summer holidays there will also be special ‘Geology Rocks’ sessions made specifically for children (4 to 11-years of age). These will be bookable on the Thanet Coast Project website nearer the time. A new walk on Sunday, 26 August, at 11am is designed specifically for older walkers (over 55s) with support from the Big Lottery Fund and ‘Thanet Coast’s Footprints in the Sand’ partnership project. Tony Child, Thanet Coast Project Officer, said: “Thanet has a unique and beautiful coastline, and its natural history is absolutely fascinating. “The Rock Doc walks provide a wonderful way to learn about the ancient wonders of our chalk cliffs and fossils in a lively and interactive manner. The walks are also very educational and serve to captivate the imagination of local people and visitors to our area.” Places on the walks are free of charge, if booked through the Thanet Coast Project website at www.thanetcoast.org.uk or through the Margate and Ramsgate Visitor Information Centres or Lillyputt Mini Golf, Broadstairs. Ed. Walks take place on the following days: Wed, 6 June, 6.15pm - Botany Bay, Kingsgate CT10 3LG Sun, 24 June, 11am - Pegwell Bay, Cliffsend CT12 5HY Sun, 8 July, 11am - Stone Bay, Broadstairs (CT10 1EU) Wed, 18 July, 6.15pm - Botany Bay, Kingsgate CT10 3LG Sun, 5 Aug, 11am - Minnis Bay, Birchington CT7 9QP Thur, 16 Aug, 6.15pm - Stone Bay, Broadstairs (CT10 1EU) Sun, 26 Aug, 11am - Minnis Bay, Birchington CT7 9QP Sun, 9 Sept, 11am - Pegwell Bay, Cliffsend CT12 5HY Sun, 23 Sept, 11am - Botany Bay, Kingsgate CT10 3LG Sun, 4 Nov, 11am - Pegwell Bay, Cliffsend CT12 5HY Wed, 26 Dec, 11am - Minnis Bay, Birchington CT7 9QP
Tuesday, 29 May 2012
OPERATION CLEAN SWEEP
Local farmland and industrial estates have been targeted in the latest Cleansweep operation led by Thanet District Council. Taking place on Wednesday 16 May, Cleansweep involved officers from the council’s Enforcement Services, Community Safety and Planning teams who visited all Thanet farms and six industrial estates. Kent Police and Kent Fire and Rescue teams were also involved in the all-day operation, along with supervised teams from the Kent Probation Service’s Community Payback. The operation was a great success, with the paperwork of more than 50 foreign nationals checked, and the possible identification of eight people not legally entitled to work in the UK. Officers from the UK Border Agency are now in the process of conducting their investigations. Other benefits of Cleansweep included the clearing of rubbish from two large pieces of land by Community Payback workers, and the issue of 10 parking tickets. And more than 100 people on the farms and industrial estates were given advice and information relating to fire safety and planning enforcement. In the past, the ongoing Cleansweep operations have proved to be of enormous benefit in highlighting hazards or illegal practices in shops and other properties. Cllr Clive Hart, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Regulatory Services, said: “Farms and industrial estates form an integral part of Thanet’s local economy. Therefore it’s essential that such places of work maintain public confidence and adhere to the highest standards. “The latest Cleansweep has proved to be an enormously positive exercise, with farmers and those working on industrial estates giving their overwhelming support.” Cllr Hart added: “I’d like to thank all those involved in the Cleansweep operation for their assistance, including our partner agencies whose support has been invaluable.”
COUNCIL WELCOMES PORTAS ANNOUNCEMENT
Thanet District Council has welcomed the announcement that Margate has been chosen to be one of the 12 English Portas Pilot Towns.
Margate’s success means that the town will have a share of a £1.2m government cash grant, and will also receive support and advice from retail expert Mary Portas.
Leader of the council, Cllr Clive Hart, said: “This is wonderful news for Margate, and I’m thrilled for the town and its people. Over the coming months, the council will be supporting the Margate Team to fulfil all its exciting plans.”
He added: “Margate received a visit from Mary Portas in September and this was very useful for us, and we found her very supportive and enthusiastic about the town’s future.
“The winning of the bid means that we will have further help from government advisors. Therefore, this is not just about money – the town’s success means that it will gain invaluable guidance and assistance, and that’s great news.”
Monday, 28 May 2012
Manston Airport: Conservative Group urges flight flexibility for jobs
At last week’s
Council meeting, the Conservatives emerged as the only party willing to give
Manston airport the operating flexibility it needs to develop and provide much
needed employment for local people.
Labour, the real
Independents and TIG all rejected a Conservative amendment which stated: 'Thanet District
Council fully supports the airport and recognises that it needs some
flexibility in its night-time flying policy in order to realise its full
potential and deliver the jobs that Thanet desperately needs.'
Clive Hart's
'socialists' made it clear that job opportunities were a reasonable sacrifice
for votes in Ramsgate, to keep them in power. TIG’s Cllr Ian Driver went even
further and stated that he would welcome the closure of the airport now.
Labours proposal to put
a total curfew on the airport's operating hours from 11pm to 7am will seriously
harm Manston's prospects of becoming a thriving business capable of supporting
up to 3000 new jobs. Thanet's residents are left to envy the success of
Southend Airport which, with full local council support, has, in just three
years, become a major employer in the area. Labour claim that their recent
survey of public opinion on 'night-time' flying supports their stance but it is
clear that the methodology employed was
skewed in favour of motivated responders in the 'no night flights' camp.
Conservative Group
Leader, Cllr Bob Bayford said: “We are not in favour of a ‘free for all’ at
Manston throughout the night – that would clearly be unacceptable. However, Labour’s iron fist policy will kill
Manston and its potential to offer real jobs to people in Thanet. Yet again, Thanet’s Labour administration
has proved it will pander to a vocal minority when it can keep them in power.”
New planning applications,
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
* This date is when Thanet District Council first published this case file.
| Date Published* | Application No. | Address | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0243 | 145 CANTERBURY ROAD MARGATE CT95BD | current |
| 24 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0386 | 135 NORTHWOOD ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT102LU | current |
| 24 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0291 | 77 CARLTON AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1BB | current |
| 24 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0373 | 34-40 HARBOUR STREET, RAMSGATE | current |
| 24 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0111 | SITE OFFICE, FOXHUNTER RESIDENTIAL CARAVAN PARK, MONKTON STREET, RAMSGATE, CT12 4JG | current |
| 23 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0388 | 30 THE WARREN DRIVE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88JB | current |
| 23 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0365 | 146 NEWINGTON ROAD RAMSGATE CT126PT | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0372 | 6 COLLINGWOOD CLOSE BROADSTAIRS CT102JS | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0387 | NUMBERS 1 TO 4 LOVE LANE MARGATE | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0375 | 58 GROSVENOR PLACE MARGATE CT91UW | current |
| 22 May 2012 | L/TH/12/0397 | 186 HIGH STREET MARGATE CT91JZ | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0360 | FOUNTAIN INN COURT LOVE LANE MARGATE CT9 1QB | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0361 | TADCASTER COURT 36 KING STREET MARGATE CT9 1DA | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0364 | 8 LOVE LANE MARGATE CT9 1QB | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0380 | 2 CHURCHFIELDS MARGATE CT9 1PA | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0381 | 1 ST JOHNS ROAD MARGATE CT9 1LU | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0382 | GEORGE WARREN COURT CHARLOTTE SQUARE MARGATE CT9 1LD | current |
| 22 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0383 | 15 PARADISE RAMSGATE CT11 9TX | current |
| 21 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0321 | BOWLING GREEN CLUB HOUSE, KING GEORGES FIELD, ST MILDREDS ROAD, MINSTER, RAMSGATE, CT12 4DE | current |
| 21 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0378 | EAST KENT MARITIME TRUST MUSEUM CLOCK HOUSE PIER YARD HARBOUR PARADE RAMSGATE CT118LS | current |
| 21 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0394 | GROTT SHOP 163 NORTHDOWN ROAD CLIFTONVILLE MARGATE CT92PA | current |
| 21 May 2012 | L/TH/12/0347 | THE CHAPEL STONE HOUSE NORTH FORELAND ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT103NT | current |
| 21 May 2012 | L/TH/12/0379 | EAST KENT MARITIME TRUST MUSEUM CLOCK HOUSE PIER YARD HARBOUR PARADE RAMSGATE CT118LS | current |
| 21 May 2012 | OL/TH/12/0333 | ROYAL EXCHANGE MILLERS LANE MONKTON RAMSGATE CT124JW | current |
| 17 May 2012 | F/TH/12/0357 | NUMBER 14 TO 15 MARINE DRIVE AND 38 TO 40 HIGH STREET MARGATE | current |
| 17 May 2012 | L/TH/12/0004 | 1-19 THE MALTINGS CANNON ROAD RAMSGATE CT11 9XT | current |
| 17 May 2012 | L/TH/12/0367 | DENTAL SURGERY 131 HIGH STREET RAMSGATE CT119UA | current |
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
- 29/05/2012 - Meeting scheduled: Tuesday, 29th May, 2012 7.00 pm, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
- 25/05/2012 - Issue published: Trial of extended opening hours Mill Lane Car Park
- 25/05/2012 - Decision published: Trial of extended opening hours Mill Lane Car Park; Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Commercial Services
- 24/05/2012 - Meeting held: Thursday, 24th May, 2012 7.00 pm, Council
- 24/05/2012 - Minutes published: Meeting of Tuesday, 22nd May, 2012 10.00 am, Licensing Board
- 23/05/2012 - Minutes published: Meeting of Tuesday, 22nd May, 2012 10.30 am, Licensing Sub Committee
- 22/05/2012 - Meeting held: Tuesday, 22nd May, 2012 10.30 am, Licensing Sub Committee
- 22/05/2012 - Meeting held: Tuesday, 22nd May, 2012 10.00 am, Licensing Board
- 21/05/2012 - Agenda published: Meeting of Tuesday, 29th May, 2012 7.00 pm, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
- 21/05/2012 - Minutes published: Meeting of Tuesday, 1st May, 2012 7.00 pm, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
- 21/05/2012 - Issue published: Proposed Acquisition of the Business of the Margate Theatre Royal Trust and Grant of Interim Management Agreement of the Theatre Royal Addington Street and 16a Hawley Square, Margate, Kent to Thanet Leisure Force.
- 21/05/2012 - Decision published: Proposed Acquisition of the Business of the Margate Theatre Royal Trust and Grant of Interim Management Agreement of the Theatre Royal Addington Street and 16a Hawley Square, Margate, Kent to Thanet Leisure Force.; Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Regulatory and Strategic Economic Development Services
Thanet District Council licensing applications
(Applications from 25 April 2012)
| Name of Applicant / Club | Address of Premises / Club | Nature of application. New or variation | Proposed licensable activities / or proposed variation | Date by which representations may be made (no less than 28 days after date received) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southeast Retail Limited | 42 High Street, Margate CT9 1DS | New application for premises licence | Regulated entertainment, late night refreshment, the supply of alcohol | 7th June 2012 |
| Mr S. Bakeetharan | 31 Addington Street, Ramsgate CT11 9JL | New application for premises licence | The supply of alcohol | 7th June 2012 |
| Chief Superintendent of Police | The Westcoast 3-5 King Street, Margate CT9 1DD | Review of premises licence | Brought by Police, prevention of crime and disorder | 21st June 2012 |
| Chief Superintendent of Police | The Ruby Lounge The Parade, Margate CT9 1EZ | Review of premises licence | Brought by Police, prevention of crime and disorder and public safety | 21st June 2012 |
| Chief Superintendent of Police | The Belgian Cafe 98 Harbour Parade, Ramsgate CT11 8LP | Review of premises licence | Brought by Police, prevention of crime and disorder | 21st June 2012 |
| Chief Superintendent of Police | Londis 5 High Street, Broadstairs CT10 1LP | Review of premises licence | Brought by Police, prevention of crime and disorder and protection of children from harm | 21st June 2012 |
Sunday, 27 May 2012
UPRISE 2012
2nd June - 5th June 2012
Canterbury Christ Church University is proud to present UPRISE 2012, a group exhibition featuring a range of photographic work produced by students of all three years of the photography programme.
The Photography Programme of Canterbury Christ Church University is running for its 4th year. Each year has produced a variety of work, using a range of different photographic processes. Since the birth of this degree, an annual exhibition has been hosted on campus showcasing the work produced during that year and UPRISE 2012 is the latest instalment.
UPRISE 2012 acts as a stage on which a new generation of photographers look to embrace the art world, redefining the medium and connecting with new audiences. It is a chance to express as individual creatives, coming together in collaboration to display to a wide audience. Each piece of work expresses the individuality and creativity of the practitioner. This exhibition aims to project these qualities to the visitors.
The exhibition is held on the Broadstairs Campus throughout the ground floor. Shown work covers all areas of the photographic world including portraiture and landscape, photography, documentary photography and night photography. These different styles of work have been created using film and darkroom processes as well as digitally using computerized post editing techniques.
In addition to the main exhibition at the Broadstairs Campus, a selection of the best images from all three years is being exhibited at the Old Lookout Gallery situated at the bottom of Harbour Street in Broadstairs.
Friday, 25 May 2012
Council response on night-time flying
Although supportive of Manston Airport, Thanet District Council agreed at Full Council last night (Thursday 24 May) that it could not support the introduction of the airport’s proposed scheduled night-time flying. Councillors were considering the council’s consultation response to proposals submitted by airport owners Infratil to introduce night flying operations between 23:00 hours and 07:00 hours. Concerns over the potential noise and environmental impacts, as well as strong public feeling against night-time flying, meant the majority of Councillors did not support the airport’s consultation proposals, submitted to the council in October 2011. As well as underestimating the potential negative impact, members also felt that expert advice provided by Parsons Brinckerhoff in an independent report, questioned the potential economic benefits. Members took three votes on recommendations from Cabinet following their meeting on Thursday 10 May. All three recommendations, as detailed below, were approved: 1. That subject to any further comments that Council may wish to make, Council agrees the consultation response to Manston airport’s night time flying policy as set out at Annex 1 of the report. 2. That Council confirms that Thanet District Council fully supports the day-time operation of Manston Airport but further recommends that as a Consultee, the Council cannot support the introduction of scheduled night-time flying operations between 23:00 hours and 07:00 hours for the following reasons: a) The council’s consultation shows 73% of respondents are opposed to night-time flying; b) Noise and environmental impacts are underestimated; c) The number of jobs generated and the economic benefits may be overestimated; d) The probable detrimental impact of night-time flying on Thanet’s recovering Tourism Industry; e) Concerns raised in the World Health Organisation’s assessment of the impacts of disturbed sleep; f) There is concern that the night-time flying proposals have not considered Article 8 of the Human Rights Act; g) The Airport would need to address whether the proposed night-time flying policy constitutes a ‘plan or project’ for the purposes of the Habitats Regulations and then follow the further requirements of those regulations as relevant. 3. That Council authorises the Director of Community Services in consultation with the Leader of the Council to provide final written comments to Manston Airport incorporating any amendments considered necessary. Leader of Thanet District council, Cllr. Clive Hart, said: “Last night’s decision follows months of careful consideration. After listening to the concerns of local people across Thanet, and taking expert advice on the proposals, we were clear that our response to Manston could not support night-time flying. As a council we do support the airport and recognise their position as a key local business in the area, however this can’t be at any environmental cost.” The council’s consultation response will now be submitted direct to Manston Airport.
THANET MAGAZINE PUBLISHES SPECIAL CORRUPTION ISSUE
The June issue of Thanet Watch will be a special corruption issue,
kicking off a series of investigations into murky activities in public life on
the Isle.
The first article will look at one of the most scandalous stories in the
recent history of the locality, involving flagrant misconduct in public office,
property scams and even money forging.
Thanet Watch’s Norman Thomas claims the series will “shock, amaze and
appall” readers.
“We’ve unearthed so many examples of corruption and dodgy goings on
here,” he said, “It makes you wonder, why here? Is there something special about
Thanet which attracts this kind of criminality?”
The record of Thanet Council, Mr Thomas claims, is not a pretty one, and
this, he says, raises many important questions.
“I’d like to know the answer to this one: is it easier to be a crooked
councillor in Thanet than elsewhere Britain
“I feel sorry for many
Thanet councillors who, I know, work fantastically hard and selflessly for the
community. Unfortunately, when revelations like this come out, they all tend to
be tarred with the same brush.”
The magazine, now in its fourth issue, also tells the story of how Punk
came to Thanet, an investigation into the threat to our libraries, the real cost of Westwood Cross, a
letter from a man having inappropriate dreams about MP Roger Gale, and the
threat to our beaches from the horrible “sea vomit”
Plus: a full guide to entertainments and the arts in Thanet in June.
The special corruption issue of Thanet
Watch, price 60p, is in newsagents across Thanet from Wednesday May
23.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Iconic Thanet images on display in London
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Every picture tells a story, and thanks to some amazing images of Thanet, the area is achieving high-profile exposure across London and the south east this summer. Iconic images of Margate and Botany Bay are now on display at high footfall locations as part of a major campaign to encourage visitors to the area. Working closely with Visit Kent and Turner Contemporary, Thanet District Council is thrilled that the Kent Contemporary campaign this year will feature Margate’s famous art gallery, Turner Contemporary, for the first time. The image appears on huge 48 sheet billboards at central London Stations including Paddington, London Bridge, Fenchurch Street and Kensington Olympia, as well as other outer London stations. Featuring on key Eurotunnel poster sites, the stunning image of Margate, will also give visitors to the country a first glimpse of the beautiful seaside town as soon as they land on British soil. An eye catching image of Botany Bay, which has been used as part of this campaign for three years, will also be featured again this year, as well as being used by Visit England on posters sent to the country's 270 Visitor Information Centres as part of their promotion 'Holidays at home are Great'. Both photographs of Thanet will also be displayed as part of a national ‘Great’ campaign by Visit Britain which will see the images at Ashford and Ebbsfleet International Stations, key transport hubs during the Olympics. Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr. Iris Johnston, said: “We couldn't wish for better exposure and at such an important time! With the eyes of the world focussed on London, and thousands of visitors expected for the Diamond Jubilee and Olympic and Paralympic Games, it's good to know that our beautiful little corner of the country is being represented and hopefully enticing people to visit. “Seeing the billboard actually in situ at Paddington Station was incredible! The photograph is stunning and it really captures the beauty of Margate and the Turner Contemporary. Along with our recent good news about receiving more Blue Flag awards than any other council area in the country, this really does give us something to celebrate and should make Thanet really proud”. Deputy Director of Turner Contemporary Richard Morsley, said: "It's great to be partnering with Thanet District Council to make Turner Contemporary and Margate a key image in the 2012 Visit Kent campaign. With the Tracey Emin exhibition opening on 26th May, we are expecting another busy summer ahead for Margate and this images captures the sky that drew JMW Turner to the town all those years ago." For more information on Thanet’s beautiful beaches view our new Beaches and Bays e-brochure at www.visitthanet.co.uk/beaches-bays/ For more information on Turner Contemporary go to www.turnercontemporary.org photograph Cllr Iris Johnston and Richard Morsley in front of the image at Paddington Station, London.
WENDY SAVAGE COMES TO THANET MEETING TONIGHT
Professor Wendy Savage is coming to Thanet to address the “Save Our Health Services” meeting today at 7pm, Wednesday May 23 at The Red Hall, 11 Grosvenor Rd, Broadstairs CT10 2BT.
Professor Savage, the well-known campaigner for women’s rights in the NHS and co-chair of the national Keep Our NHS Public campaign, will speak about the threat to hospitals and GP services posed by new Government legislation.
Christine Tongue, one of the organisers of the meeting said: “We’re very excited that Professor Savage is coming to the meeting here in Thanet. It’s a mark of how important this issue is.”
The meeting is being held by Thanet Trades Union Council to discuss growing fears about the future of local health services in Thanet, east Kent, and what can done to fight back.
In particular there are worries about the loss of services from the area's main hospital, QEQM Margate and concerns over changes to GP practices.
Christine said: “We're inviting people to share their experience of the cuts so far and discuss what we want from the health service in Thanet. If people can’t make it to the meeting we’re asking them to email or phone us.
“It’s vital we get organised now – or we’ll end up being presented with cuts in our service and being able to do nothing about it.”
Also speaking at the meeting is independent Thanet councillor Ian Driver.
Monday, 21 May 2012
The Perversion of Democracy in Thanet
At last week’s
Annual General Meeting, the minority Labour administration at Thanet District
Council sealed a sordid alliance with the Thanet Independent Group members to
retain their hold on power.
The pact ordered by socialist
Council Leader Cllr.Clive Hart was a cynical and desperate manoeuvre to keep his
party in control, and was further discredited by his nomination of all three
TIG members (Cllrs. Cohen, Driver and Worrow) to the chairmanships of the most powerful
committees at the Council, giving these largely unrepresentive councillors, two
of whom have changed parties since they were elected only last year, large
allowances to guarantee their continuing support.
TIG members have
already secured concessions from the Labour administration costing many
thousands of pounds to secure their votes and there can be no doubt that
further concessions will be solicited in the future to keep the TIGs onside.
Conservative Group
Leader, Cllr Bob Bayford said: “Every true and principled member of the Labour
Group at Thanet District Council must be feeling ashamed today after their
leader’s capitulation to the demands of the Thanet Independent Group. I call on all those with any decency to
reassert their party’s honour by instructing their leader to meet with me to
discuss an arrangement which has the proper interests of Thanet residents at
heart, or to stand down.”
Sunday, 20 May 2012
Apology/Press Release
Apology
It has come to my attention that a number of people were offended by a post on the Thanet Independent Group Blog. The post that I refer to was intended to be light hearted satire and in many ways similar to some of the posts made on Cllr Simon Moores' blog. It was made clear on the blog that the story was fictional;it was not directed towards any particular person. However, Cllrs Cohen and Driver thought that the post was inappropriate, and after reviewing the situation I came to the same conclusion, the post was subsequently removed and the blog was deleted. I would like to offer a sincere apology on behalf of the web team for any offence that may of been caused by the post.
John Worrow
Thanet Independent Group
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