Residents of one part of Cliftonville are being asked for their views on the idea of declaring it as a Conservation Area.
Thanet District Council’s conservation team is looking at designating a Dalby Square Conservation Area. This would cover Dalby Square, part of Arthur Road and Dalby Road. Letters are being sent out by the council to residents in these areas, ward councillors and local community groups to ask them what they think.
The Dalby Square area was first developed for visitors heading to the seaside in the late part of the 19th century. The area included the Cliftonville Hotel, which was the largest in the area, with 300 bedrooms, a ballroom, palm court and facilities for croquet, tennis and archery. During its early years, it was housing more than half the visitors to the area. The hotel eventually closed in 1939 and was demolished in the 1960s and replaced by a bowling alley, pub and flats.
Luckily most of the other fine 19th century buildings in the area still survive and are seen by the council and other national bodies such as English Heritage as being a very good example of historic seaside architecture.
Initial discussions have already taken place with local community groups. There has been significant support for Dalby Square and the surrounding area to be designated as a Conservation Area.
Two informal drop-in sessions will be held at St. Paul’s Community Trust, St. Paul’s Road for people to come and see the proposals and speak to council officers about them. It will also give them a chance to find out more about what living in a Conservation Area would mean to them.
The first will be on Tuesday 30 March between 11am and 2pm, with the second taking place on Thursday 1 April between 5.30pm and 8.00pm and people are welcome to call in at any time.
Cllr. John Kirby, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services and Ramsgate Marina, said: “Thanet already benefits from a number of Conservation Areas that help to protect the heritage and history of our beautiful district. There’s been a lot of interest in recent years in Cliftonville, as it is home to some beautiful architecture, dating back to the days when it was a magnet for holidaymakers in the Victorian era. We’ve responded to that interest and that’s why we’re looking at the idea of creating a Conservation Area around Dalby Square. Now we’re keen to hear what local residents and community groups feel about the idea.”
People can comment in writing to Louise Dandy, Thanet District Council, PO Box 9, Margate, CT9 1XZ or by e-mailing louise.dandy@thanet.gov.uk by Monday 5 April.
Friday, 19 March 2010
LETS END GAMBLING, CONFRONTATION & NEGLECT
From Cllr. Clive Hart - Leader of the Opposition at TDC.
"For seven years they've struggled on, but over the past month the current Conservative administration at Thanet District Council has finally lost any control they ever had of the local authority. Instead of running the District properly and cautiously they've been gambling with essential local services, fighting expensive legal battles with our own residents and the people of Thanet have been consequently punished for Tory neglect.
In February the Tories launched TDC into the unknown with their hurried 'shared services' scheme for East Kent. Decisions were rushed through that could see TDC tied in to long, expensive and binding agreements with it's neighbouring authorities with no clear financial savings yet established, but substantial financial penalties should the ventures fail. These changes will mean the loss of local democratic control of housing, waste collection and support services and effectively allow major decisions to be made for the future by just a tiny group of council Chief. Executives and council leaders. Jobs could also be lost to Thanet, as due to our geographical position any centralising of management in East Kent would be unlikely to be based on the isle. Within just a few days of making these decisions the council was then presented with a Financial Risk Assessment in which their own council financial officers described their 'shared services' project as probably the largest risk facing the council to date and that the likelihood of shared services not being progressed was also deemed to be high risk. The Tories are gambling with our essential services.
At the beginning of March we then had the 'summing up' session of the Montefiore Village Green application at Albion House in Ramsgate. This matter should never have descended into this sorry state of affairs - a long drawn out legal battle between a local council and it's own residents, who just want to retain some green space for future generations. For several years now, the current Conservative administration at TDC has been behaving like the most ravenous of property developers but this latest episode simply beggars belief. At the 'summing up' the public had to sit through over four hours of complex legal wrangling but that was just the penultimate step in a process that has drawn on for three years and still has several months to run. Goodness knows how much this has cost us all as local ratepayers? When a council is directed to behave in such a confrontational manner towards its own residents it really has been pushed in a very dangerous direction indeed.
And during the past month Margate's High Street was branded one of the dreariest in the country and Ramsgate Royal Harbour was downgraded to the bottom six of ninety one UK harbours.
Seven years of Conservative rule has culminated in a month of gambling, confrontation and punishment for neglect. The current Conservative leadership at TDC should stand down - NOW!
Published by Thanet Labour Group Press Office - 44 Northdown Road, Margate, Kent, CT9 2RW.
"For seven years they've struggled on, but over the past month the current Conservative administration at Thanet District Council has finally lost any control they ever had of the local authority. Instead of running the District properly and cautiously they've been gambling with essential local services, fighting expensive legal battles with our own residents and the people of Thanet have been consequently punished for Tory neglect.
In February the Tories launched TDC into the unknown with their hurried 'shared services' scheme for East Kent. Decisions were rushed through that could see TDC tied in to long, expensive and binding agreements with it's neighbouring authorities with no clear financial savings yet established, but substantial financial penalties should the ventures fail. These changes will mean the loss of local democratic control of housing, waste collection and support services and effectively allow major decisions to be made for the future by just a tiny group of council Chief. Executives and council leaders. Jobs could also be lost to Thanet, as due to our geographical position any centralising of management in East Kent would be unlikely to be based on the isle. Within just a few days of making these decisions the council was then presented with a Financial Risk Assessment in which their own council financial officers described their 'shared services' project as probably the largest risk facing the council to date and that the likelihood of shared services not being progressed was also deemed to be high risk. The Tories are gambling with our essential services.
At the beginning of March we then had the 'summing up' session of the Montefiore Village Green application at Albion House in Ramsgate. This matter should never have descended into this sorry state of affairs - a long drawn out legal battle between a local council and it's own residents, who just want to retain some green space for future generations. For several years now, the current Conservative administration at TDC has been behaving like the most ravenous of property developers but this latest episode simply beggars belief. At the 'summing up' the public had to sit through over four hours of complex legal wrangling but that was just the penultimate step in a process that has drawn on for three years and still has several months to run. Goodness knows how much this has cost us all as local ratepayers? When a council is directed to behave in such a confrontational manner towards its own residents it really has been pushed in a very dangerous direction indeed.
And during the past month Margate's High Street was branded one of the dreariest in the country and Ramsgate Royal Harbour was downgraded to the bottom six of ninety one UK harbours.
Seven years of Conservative rule has culminated in a month of gambling, confrontation and punishment for neglect. The current Conservative leadership at TDC should stand down - NOW!
Published by Thanet Labour Group Press Office - 44 Northdown Road, Margate, Kent, CT9 2RW.
Thursday, 18 March 2010
NEW ISSUE OF THANET MATTERS OUT
A pink feather duster, advertising the major new consultation about clean streets in Thanet, is the eye catching design on the latest edition of the council's magazine Thanet Matters.
There's a double page spread on the work that the council does to clean up the streets of Thanet, along with details about how you can get involved with the new consultation, called How Clean is Your Street?
After the council recently set its budget for the next financial year, there's also information about what your money is spent on, with the council receiving £4.04 per week from the average Council Taxpayer.
The magazine looks ahead to all the events taking place in Thanet over the Easter holidays and into spring. You can also find out how people have helped to shape council services by giving their views in recent consultations.
Thanet Matters is now available from the following local supermarkets: Tesco Extra at Westwood, Tesco in Broadstairs and Manston, Sainsburys at Westwood, Asda in Broadstairs, Morrissons. Copies are available from Thanet's Gateway Plus, local libraries, Hartsdown Leisure Centre and Ramsgate Sports Centre and the Margate Visitor Information Centre.
The magazine is also available online at the council's website at www.thanet.gov.uk You can be added to the mailing list for "Thanet Matters" by calling 01843 577034 or e-mailing press.office@thanet.gov.uk "Thanet Matters" is no longer delivered to homes door-to-door via the free newspapers in a move that saves £10,000 per year.
There's a double page spread on the work that the council does to clean up the streets of Thanet, along with details about how you can get involved with the new consultation, called How Clean is Your Street?
After the council recently set its budget for the next financial year, there's also information about what your money is spent on, with the council receiving £4.04 per week from the average Council Taxpayer.
The magazine looks ahead to all the events taking place in Thanet over the Easter holidays and into spring. You can also find out how people have helped to shape council services by giving their views in recent consultations.
Thanet Matters is now available from the following local supermarkets: Tesco Extra at Westwood, Tesco in Broadstairs and Manston, Sainsburys at Westwood, Asda in Broadstairs, Morrissons. Copies are available from Thanet's Gateway Plus, local libraries, Hartsdown Leisure Centre and Ramsgate Sports Centre and the Margate Visitor Information Centre.
The magazine is also available online at the council's website at www.thanet.gov.uk You can be added to the mailing list for "Thanet Matters" by calling 01843 577034 or e-mailing press.office@thanet.gov.uk "Thanet Matters" is no longer delivered to homes door-to-door via the free newspapers in a move that saves £10,000 per year.
SAVING THANET'S SECRET GARDEN
Community invited to discuss future of Margate's secret garden.A public meeting will be held on Wednesday 24th of March, 6pm at Holy Trinity and St John's School, St John's Rd, Margate.
The aim of the meeting is to discuss the future of The Countess of Huntingdon's Zion Chapel Burial Ground, Addington Square, Margate.The community is invited to share ideas about how to make best use of one of Margate's hidden gems.
The graveyard and chapel were built to serve the congregation of the Countess of Huntingdon's Connexion who was a very rich woman and keen follower of George Whitfield and the Wesley brothers.
It has remained hidden away and through neglect become a secret garden and haven for wildlife despite suffering from repeated acts of vandalism.
Some notable occupants of the burial ground are:
Thomas Gardner, Queen Victoria's body guard
The famous Cobb family memorial with Francis William Cobb:
Stephen Wells who laid claim to have constructed the shell grotto.
Louise Oldfield, Chair of The Margate Conservation Area Advisory Group said, "The garden is a magical place. I couldn't believe it when I stumbled across it.
It's really great there is revived interest in the garden through local and family history, bio-diversity and nature trails. I hope that people will come along and find out more and get involved.
"The meeting takes place at Holy Trinity and St John's School, St John's Rd, Margate, CT9 1LU, 6pm March 24th. Parking is available on site.There will be a brief storytelling session as introduction from The Tom Theatre in Cliftonville.
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
PLANNING APPEAL OVER MARGATE HOMES DISMISSED
An appeal by the owners of a former raillway line in Margate has been dismissed by a Government Inspector. The council had previously refused the planning application for eight new homes on the site between Nash Road and Nash Court Gardens. The reasons for refusal included the fact that it would be on undeveloped land and that the proposed scheme would look out of keeping with the surround ing ar ea. The council was also concerned that the scheme would not provide for a cycle route through the site. The Government Inspector agreed with the council on all of these points in dismissing the appeal, as the site is not allocated for housing and he did not believe that it had been developed previously. He also decided that two of the proposed dwellings would unacceptably overlook neighbouring properties.
SPORT MATTERS THIS EASTER
Young people in Thanet can go wet and wild or take part in a World Cup football tournament this Easter, as part of the events being put on by the council's Sport Matters team. The activities kick off on Tuesday 6 April between 11am and 3pm with an NRG World Cup football tournament on the Hartsdown five-a-side pitches in Margate. The cost is £1.50 per player and it's aimed at 13 to 17 year olds, with everyone allocated to different teams, representing different countries, when they arrive. There's a wet and wild session the following Tuesday (13 April) in the pool at Hartsdown Leisure Centre, where you'll have to scramble your way across an inflatable obstacle course with the lifeguards doing their best to put you off. It takes place from 1 to 2pm for 11 to 17 year olds and is free. There are basketball sessions on Wednesday 7 and 14 April at Ramsgate Sports Centre from 5.30 to 6.30pm. Golf is on offer at the Stoneless Golf Club between 2pm and 4pm on Monday 12 April, but although places are free, they are strictly limited. It's the same story for the Easter Ice Skating at Gillingham Ice Bowl on the evening of Friday 16 April. To book either event in advance, call 07770 828582. The Sport Matters team will also be at the three Easter Blast events taking place around Thanet during the holidays. They'll have their inflatable football pitch with them and will be putting on volleyball games, ahead of the Margate Masters beach volleyball in July. You can also try your hand at cricket and uni-hoc, a version of hockey with plastic sticks. The first Easter Blast is on Thursday 8 April at Dane Park, Margate, followed by Victoria Gardens in Broadstairs the next day and finishing at Warre Rec in Ramsgate on Thursday 15 April. All sessions run from 1 to 5pm and are free to everyone.
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
MAJOR CHANGES TO VISITOR INFORMATION IN THANET
Visitor information services in Thanet are set to undergo a major change later this month (March), as new plans are put in place to improve the service and deliver improved efficiency.
Visitor information staff from Thanet District Council will be touring major events across the area throughout the season using their mobile Visitor Information Centre, as well as operating from the Margate Visitor Information Centre at 12-13 the Parade. Key information points will also be introduced at various locations across Thanet to help ensure that information is even easier to access.
Negotiations are ongoing to retain some form of visitor information in Ramsgate, but in the meantime, the existing Visitor Information Centre in Albert Court will close for business on Saturday 27 March.
From the same date, Visitor Information staff will no longer be present at the Visitor Information Centre in Dickens House Museum in Broadstairs, although the museum will continue to be open. An information point and free phone to call the council's team have been has been introduced within the museum, so that visitors can continue to be supported. In addition, visitors will continue be helped by volunteers located there, a role that they have performed for many years.
An information kiosk, run by the Broadstairs Tourism and Leisure Association, will continue to be based at the Lilliput mini golf in Broadstairs and the Information Team is looking at further ways to support this service. The Visitor Information Centre at 12-13 the Parade in Margate will be opening seven days a week from Thursday 1 April until the end of September to ensure that they will be available to deal with visitors for longer periods.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "We are changing the service we provide to our visitors to ensure that we target information more effectively. We need to get our team out and about to the many superb events we have across Thanet throughout the summer months. That's where visitors to the area often head to and it makes sense to ensure that we have staff there to tell them all about the great things they can see and do in Thanet. The way that people want their information is changing and we all have to accept that. These days, people would often prefer to access information online, for example. They may also prefer to get information at an event, a tourist attraction or from the place they're staying in. That's why we're working to ensure there's increased information available at tourism businesses and attractions."
She added: "Thanet is not the only area to be going through this process. Many other parts of the country are also cutting back on their Visitor Information Centres, as the recession bites. Over the next five years, this council needs to save more than £6 million and we have to ensure that every service we provide is as cost effective as it is possible to be. We believe the changes we're making to visitor information will do just that."
Visitor information staff from Thanet District Council will be touring major events across the area throughout the season using their mobile Visitor Information Centre, as well as operating from the Margate Visitor Information Centre at 12-13 the Parade. Key information points will also be introduced at various locations across Thanet to help ensure that information is even easier to access.
Negotiations are ongoing to retain some form of visitor information in Ramsgate, but in the meantime, the existing Visitor Information Centre in Albert Court will close for business on Saturday 27 March.
From the same date, Visitor Information staff will no longer be present at the Visitor Information Centre in Dickens House Museum in Broadstairs, although the museum will continue to be open. An information point and free phone to call the council's team have been has been introduced within the museum, so that visitors can continue to be supported. In addition, visitors will continue be helped by volunteers located there, a role that they have performed for many years.
An information kiosk, run by the Broadstairs Tourism and Leisure Association, will continue to be based at the Lilliput mini golf in Broadstairs and the Information Team is looking at further ways to support this service. The Visitor Information Centre at 12-13 the Parade in Margate will be opening seven days a week from Thursday 1 April until the end of September to ensure that they will be available to deal with visitors for longer periods.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "We are changing the service we provide to our visitors to ensure that we target information more effectively. We need to get our team out and about to the many superb events we have across Thanet throughout the summer months. That's where visitors to the area often head to and it makes sense to ensure that we have staff there to tell them all about the great things they can see and do in Thanet. The way that people want their information is changing and we all have to accept that. These days, people would often prefer to access information online, for example. They may also prefer to get information at an event, a tourist attraction or from the place they're staying in. That's why we're working to ensure there's increased information available at tourism businesses and attractions."
She added: "Thanet is not the only area to be going through this process. Many other parts of the country are also cutting back on their Visitor Information Centres, as the recession bites. Over the next five years, this council needs to save more than £6 million and we have to ensure that every service we provide is as cost effective as it is possible to be. We believe the changes we're making to visitor information will do just that."
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
15 Mar 2010
C/TH/10/0207
25-27 TURNER STREET RAMSGATE CT118NL
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0149
6 WINDSOR CLOSE BROADSTAIRS CT102TF
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0194
47-48 HAWLEY SQUARE, MARGATE, CT9 1NY
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0208
15 GRANVILLE ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1QB
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0213
BRADSTOW VINCENT ROAD MARGATE CT94LH
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0139
QUESTEDS 76 CANTERBURY ROAD WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88JX
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0195
47-48 HAWLEY SQUARE, MARGATE, CT9 1NY
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0206
50 BELLEVUE ROAD RAMSGATE CT118LA
current
09 Mar 2010
CU/TH/08/0175
THE BARN MANSTON ROAD COLDBLOW LANE MARGATE CT94LT
decided
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0127
8 QUANTOCK GARDENS RAMSGATE CT126SW
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0182
BROADSTAIRS SAILING CLUB 12 HARBOUR STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101EU
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0184
FORMER ALLOTTMENT GARDENS, (PLOTS 60-64), MANSTON ROAD, RAMSGATE
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0185
FORMER ALLOTTMENT GARDENS, MANSTON ROAD, RAMSGATE
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0192
25A CARLTON AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT101AG
current
15 Mar 2010
C/TH/10/0207
25-27 TURNER STREET RAMSGATE CT118NL
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0149
6 WINDSOR CLOSE BROADSTAIRS CT102TF
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0194
47-48 HAWLEY SQUARE, MARGATE, CT9 1NY
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0208
15 GRANVILLE ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1QB
current
15 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0213
BRADSTOW VINCENT ROAD MARGATE CT94LH
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0139
QUESTEDS 76 CANTERBURY ROAD WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88JX
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0195
47-48 HAWLEY SQUARE, MARGATE, CT9 1NY
current
15 Mar 2010
L/TH/10/0206
50 BELLEVUE ROAD RAMSGATE CT118LA
current
09 Mar 2010
CU/TH/08/0175
THE BARN MANSTON ROAD COLDBLOW LANE MARGATE CT94LT
decided
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0127
8 QUANTOCK GARDENS RAMSGATE CT126SW
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0182
BROADSTAIRS SAILING CLUB 12 HARBOUR STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101EU
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0184
FORMER ALLOTTMENT GARDENS, (PLOTS 60-64), MANSTON ROAD, RAMSGATE
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0185
FORMER ALLOTTMENT GARDENS, MANSTON ROAD, RAMSGATE
current
09 Mar 2010
F/TH/10/0192
25A CARLTON AVENUE BROADSTAIRS CT101AG
current
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
17/03/2010 - Meeting scheduled: Mar 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
16/03/2010 - Meeting scheduled: Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
15/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 23 2010 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
15/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Procedures for Items to be included on the JTB agenda : Procedures for Items to be included on the JTB agenda: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
11/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 11 2010 7:00PM, Cabinet
11/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
11/03/2010 - Issue Published: Approval for Exemption from harbour dues and pilotage charges, other than boarding and landing fees, which are paid to contractors, for the Paddle Steamer 'Balmoral' on its 2010 visit to Ramsgate.
11/03/2010 - Decision Published: Approval for Exemption from harbour dues and pilotage charges, other than boarding and landing fees, which are paid to contractors, for the Paddle Steamer 'Balmoral' on its 2010 visit to Ramsgate.; Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services and Ramsgate Marina
10/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 25 2010 7:00PM, Council
09/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 23 2010 10:00AM, Licensing Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Treasury Management Update : Treasury Management Update: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
12/02/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 9 2010 3:00PM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
16/03/2010 - Meeting scheduled: Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
15/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 23 2010 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
15/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Procedures for Items to be included on the JTB agenda : Procedures for Items to be included on the JTB agenda: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
11/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 11 2010 7:00PM, Cabinet
11/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
11/03/2010 - Issue Published: Approval for Exemption from harbour dues and pilotage charges, other than boarding and landing fees, which are paid to contractors, for the Paddle Steamer 'Balmoral' on its 2010 visit to Ramsgate.
11/03/2010 - Decision Published: Approval for Exemption from harbour dues and pilotage charges, other than boarding and landing fees, which are paid to contractors, for the Paddle Steamer 'Balmoral' on its 2010 visit to Ramsgate.; Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services and Ramsgate Marina
10/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 25 2010 7:00PM, Council
09/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 23 2010 10:00AM, Licensing Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Treasury Management Update : Treasury Management Update: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
12/02/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 9 2010 3:00PM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
Money to provide assistance to voluntary and community groups in Margate
A year ago KCC Councillor Clive Hart was approached for some money to provide assistance to voluntary and community groups in Margate. With the money provided Thanet Voluntary & Community Sector Forum (TVCSF) employed a Development Worker (Lynne Sutton) to work with third sector groups in Clifftonville.With her help Beth Denning of the Margate Community Organisation (MCO) has just managed to secure £92,500 in funding, and they are waiting for news of another application for £10,000.
This follows news reported on the local television just last week that the MCO would have to close due to lack of funding.
This follows news reported on the local television just last week that the MCO would have to close due to lack of funding.
Councillor Clive Hart said: “ When I was able to access the original £8,000 funding for a part-time community support worker, my hope was that they might bring in a further £20,000 for the local community and thereby more than double that original investment. This news means that TVCSF, through Lynne Sutton, have already accessed more than ten times that original sum and they truly are an example of community development organisation working at its very, very best.”
Photo shows Beth Denning and Cllr. Doug Clark (Chair MCO) on the left,
Lynne Sutton and Cllr. Steve Ward (TVCSF) on the right and Cllr Clive Hart at the back.
Lynne Sutton and Cllr. Steve Ward (TVCSF) on the right and Cllr Clive Hart at the back.
Friday, 12 March 2010
PLAN AGREED TO MANAGE AND IMPROVE HOUSING
A plan, that aims to manage and improve council housing stock in Thanet over the next 30 years, has been approved by the council's Cabinet.
The Housing Revenue Account business plan was discussed at last night's (Thursday 11 March) Cabinet meeting. It sets out detailed plans for the next five years, but also looks ahead over the next three decades at the finances that will be available for council house maintenance and repairs.
Thanet District Council has more than 3,000 council homes, over half of them houses. The council has to meet national standards from the government, called Decent Homes, for all its properties by December 2010. These state that homes should be in a reasonable state of repair, have reasonably modern facilities and services, be free of health and safety hazards and provide reasonable heating. The business plan sets out how the council will achieve and even exceed these standards over the next 30 years.
The vast majority of the council's homes already meet these standards. The final few will be decent by December 2010, making the council 100% compliant.
Over the next 30 years, the plan estimates that nearly £73 million will need to be spent on council homes. Around a third of this money will go on renewing kitchens and bathrooms, with other major work likely to include new central heating boilers and electrical work.
The plan also highlights some of the major regeneration work that the housing team are working on. The re-development of the Centre in Newington is one such scheme, with work expected to start in June 2010. The council is also working closely with groups and residents in the Whitehall area of Ramsgate on improvements to the Rec there.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "This plan sets out the council's priorities for the homes we own, as agreed with our tenants and leaseholders. We aim to continuously improve the service that we offer to them and, part of that, is modernising the housing stock that we have. That job is continuous, with new facilities and improvements needed all the time. By carrying out this work, we can ensure that we have the money to deliver what's required of us."
The Housing Revenue Account business plan was discussed at last night's (Thursday 11 March) Cabinet meeting. It sets out detailed plans for the next five years, but also looks ahead over the next three decades at the finances that will be available for council house maintenance and repairs.
Thanet District Council has more than 3,000 council homes, over half of them houses. The council has to meet national standards from the government, called Decent Homes, for all its properties by December 2010. These state that homes should be in a reasonable state of repair, have reasonably modern facilities and services, be free of health and safety hazards and provide reasonable heating. The business plan sets out how the council will achieve and even exceed these standards over the next 30 years.
The vast majority of the council's homes already meet these standards. The final few will be decent by December 2010, making the council 100% compliant.
Over the next 30 years, the plan estimates that nearly £73 million will need to be spent on council homes. Around a third of this money will go on renewing kitchens and bathrooms, with other major work likely to include new central heating boilers and electrical work.
The plan also highlights some of the major regeneration work that the housing team are working on. The re-development of the Centre in Newington is one such scheme, with work expected to start in June 2010. The council is also working closely with groups and residents in the Whitehall area of Ramsgate on improvements to the Rec there.
Cllr. Zita Wiltshire, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "This plan sets out the council's priorities for the homes we own, as agreed with our tenants and leaseholders. We aim to continuously improve the service that we offer to them and, part of that, is modernising the housing stock that we have. That job is continuous, with new facilities and improvements needed all the time. By carrying out this work, we can ensure that we have the money to deliver what's required of us."
MARGATE FLOOD PROTECTION PLANS APPROVED
Plans for a £4 million plus project to help protect Margate Old Town from flooding have been approved by Cabinet Members at Thanet District Council.
They were told at their meeting last night (Thursday 11 March) that the council has used a £98,000 grant to look at the scale of the problem and what can be done to solve it.
The current sea defences in Margate only offer protection against what's described as a one in 20 year storm event. The aim is to ensure that sea defences can now withstand much more extreme storm events, up to a level of those only seen once in every 200 years, so it is clear that improved protection is needed.
Different options were assessed, with two eventually shortlisted. The first, which would be the cheapest option, is a higher wall along the most vulnerable part of the seafront, but this would cut any views out to the sea. The second option is a series of wide steps from the beach to the promenade which absorb wave energy more efficiently and allow a lower wall to be built than in option one. New floodgates would also be installed as part of this option.
Funding of £4 million from the Environment Agency has already been allocated to the scheme, subject to technical approval. If the scheme does get approval, work could start within the next year, but the major part of the scheme would be constructed in 2011/12.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "There is so much regeneration work going on in Margate Old Town, with the construction of Turner Contemporary, that we need to ensure that the area is adequately protected. However, that flood protection work needs to fit in with everything else we are doing. Clearly a high wall is not going to help with the town's regeneration. The beach and its harbour views are some of Margate's greatest natural assets and the last thing we want to do is affect those in any way. The scheme that we are recommending to the government on behalf of our residents is obviously the best option for Margate. It will cost more, but we are sure the government's advisors will support it."
They were told at their meeting last night (Thursday 11 March) that the council has used a £98,000 grant to look at the scale of the problem and what can be done to solve it.
The current sea defences in Margate only offer protection against what's described as a one in 20 year storm event. The aim is to ensure that sea defences can now withstand much more extreme storm events, up to a level of those only seen once in every 200 years, so it is clear that improved protection is needed.
Different options were assessed, with two eventually shortlisted. The first, which would be the cheapest option, is a higher wall along the most vulnerable part of the seafront, but this would cut any views out to the sea. The second option is a series of wide steps from the beach to the promenade which absorb wave energy more efficiently and allow a lower wall to be built than in option one. New floodgates would also be installed as part of this option.
Funding of £4 million from the Environment Agency has already been allocated to the scheme, subject to technical approval. If the scheme does get approval, work could start within the next year, but the major part of the scheme would be constructed in 2011/12.
Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "There is so much regeneration work going on in Margate Old Town, with the construction of Turner Contemporary, that we need to ensure that the area is adequately protected. However, that flood protection work needs to fit in with everything else we are doing. Clearly a high wall is not going to help with the town's regeneration. The beach and its harbour views are some of Margate's greatest natural assets and the last thing we want to do is affect those in any way. The scheme that we are recommending to the government on behalf of our residents is obviously the best option for Margate. It will cost more, but we are sure the government's advisors will support it."
Labour Shadow Team comments & questions at Thursday evenings TDC Cabinet meeting.
INTRODUCTION - LABOUR GROUP LEADER - Cllr CLIVE HART
It was another reasonably short agenda this week. Some matters discussed will come to full council later, where Labour members will provide more input and several items were discussed in 'closed session' after exclusion of press and public as they included information regarded as 'exempt'.
However, once more I was delighted to see a strong delegation from the Labour Shadow Cabinet doing their jobs as usual, listening to all the detail, taking notes for later debate and commenting where necessary.
Cllr. Clive Hart - Phone: 01843 298770
Item 5 PUBLIC AMENITY LAND, MONTEFIORE SURGERY DEVELOPMENT, RAMSGATE - Cllr. ALAN POOLE
I welcome this proposal to transfer Montefiore Wood to Ramsgate Town Council.
Cllr Michelle Fenner and I have worked with local residents to retain this land for public use. Montefiore Wood is an attractive green area in urban Ramsgate and will hopefully remain so for many years to come.
I have asked the Planning Department why the 106 Agreement (for the wood’s maintenance) produced only £25,000, my understanding from the original Planning Agenda was that £35,000 was requested.
I have subsequently been informed that the agreement specified ‘up to £35,000’ and £25,000 was the maximum offered. I am not particularly happy with this answer.
Cllr Poole was promised written clarification.
Cllr. Alan Poole - Phone: 01843 602594
Item 6 ASSET MANAGEMENT STRATEGY 2007 / 2011 - Cllr. ALAN POOLE
The introduction to this item states ‘Public and stakeholder engagement are essential parts of this process’. Unfortunately my experience and the experience of many other residents, with the Asset Management Strategy, is that the Council consult but do not take any notice when substantial numbers of the residents object to a particular disposal. The Montefiore Games Centre is a good case.
The Montefiore Games Centre is a very popular, well used public amenity, / Cllr POOLE WAS CUT SHORT AT THIS POINT BY THE CHAIRMAN - Cllr EZEKIEL / but Cllr Poole intended to continue: just this week I heard that the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA ) have booked the tennis courts one day a week throughout the summer for coaching young players. The LTA say they booked these facilities because they are excellent.
Why then are the Council currently fighting a very expensive Village Green Application, a process that is very expensive in officer time and money probably running into tens of thousands, to dispose of a well used public facility against the wishes of local residents?
I repeat the words from the introduction to this item…. ‘Public and stakeholder engagement are essential parts of this process’………why then don’t you listen when the public engage?
AFTER THE MEETING Cllr Poole said "being cut short by Cllr Ezekiel just confirmed exactly what I was trying to explain - this Conservative administration only wants to listen to those who totally agree with all they say".
Cllr. Alan Poole - Phone: 01843 602594
Item 7 MARGATE FLOOD PROTECTION SCHEME - Cllr. PETER CAMPBELL
We welcome news that the Labour Government has allocated an initial £4 million pounds to improve flood protection for Margate. It has been decided that major investment is vital to move to a 1 in 200 year flooding risk for the seafront and Old Town areas. The association of British Insurers has warned that failure to invest in adequate flood defences on the east coast could result in £16 billion worth of damage due to future North Sea storm surges similar to events in 1987, 1978, 1971 and 1953.
Flood protection at Margate has been a constant task since the Nayland Rock Stone Groyne and the Harbour Arm were first constructed at the start of the nineteenth century. These two sea defences shaped the famous Margate Main sands that helped to make the town a famous seaside resort. However, rising sea levels in this century now make additional work necessary.
Following an Environment Agency grant of £98,000 in 2009, a feasibility study has now produced two different options. The first plan would consist of a new 7m concrete sea wall constructed along Marine Drive, this would rise to around 2m higher than the existing wall now running alongside the pavement. The second, more favourable plan is for stepped revetments from the beach level up to a new wall, marginally higher than the present one, thus preserving the views out to seaward. Both these options would be in addition to the necessary reinforcement works to the Harbour Arm.
Although the preferred option will require extra government funding from the Environment Agency, in addition to the allocated £4million, this plan has been recommended by both the Margate Renewal Partnership Board and the Urban Design Panel. This major funding from central government is in addition to the many millions already allocated for regeneration projects in Margate in recent years.
This is yet another example of the Labour Government investing in Thanet & the people of Thanet. New Schools, Refurbished Hospitals, £40million Cliftonville regeneration, Surestart, / Cllr CAMPBELL WAS CUT SHORT AT THIS POINT BY THE CHAIRMAN - Cllr EZEKIEL / but Cllr Campbell intended to continue: pension credits, winter fuel allowance, working families tax credits the list goes on. All will be put at risk if a Tory Government takes over at the next election.
Cllr. Peter Campbell - Phone: 01843 585738
Item 8 PLANNING OBLIGATIONS & DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS - Cllr. CLIVE HART
Where financial contributions are obtained from developers for transport, education or adult social services it is essential that the sums gained are rigorously monitored and tracked in order to make absolutely sure they are used for the benefit of local people here in Thanet. They most certainly should not be allowed to simply disappear into any KCC departmental 'black hole' in Maidstone.
It was another reasonably short agenda this week. Some matters discussed will come to full council later, where Labour members will provide more input and several items were discussed in 'closed session' after exclusion of press and public as they included information regarded as 'exempt'.
However, once more I was delighted to see a strong delegation from the Labour Shadow Cabinet doing their jobs as usual, listening to all the detail, taking notes for later debate and commenting where necessary.
Cllr. Clive Hart - Phone: 01843 298770
Item 5 PUBLIC AMENITY LAND, MONTEFIORE SURGERY DEVELOPMENT, RAMSGATE - Cllr. ALAN POOLE
I welcome this proposal to transfer Montefiore Wood to Ramsgate Town Council.
Cllr Michelle Fenner and I have worked with local residents to retain this land for public use. Montefiore Wood is an attractive green area in urban Ramsgate and will hopefully remain so for many years to come.
I have asked the Planning Department why the 106 Agreement (for the wood’s maintenance) produced only £25,000, my understanding from the original Planning Agenda was that £35,000 was requested.
I have subsequently been informed that the agreement specified ‘up to £35,000’ and £25,000 was the maximum offered. I am not particularly happy with this answer.
Cllr Poole was promised written clarification.
Cllr. Alan Poole - Phone: 01843 602594
Item 6 ASSET MANAGEMENT STRATEGY 2007 / 2011 - Cllr. ALAN POOLE
The introduction to this item states ‘Public and stakeholder engagement are essential parts of this process’. Unfortunately my experience and the experience of many other residents, with the Asset Management Strategy, is that the Council consult but do not take any notice when substantial numbers of the residents object to a particular disposal. The Montefiore Games Centre is a good case.
The Montefiore Games Centre is a very popular, well used public amenity, / Cllr POOLE WAS CUT SHORT AT THIS POINT BY THE CHAIRMAN - Cllr EZEKIEL / but Cllr Poole intended to continue: just this week I heard that the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA ) have booked the tennis courts one day a week throughout the summer for coaching young players. The LTA say they booked these facilities because they are excellent.
Why then are the Council currently fighting a very expensive Village Green Application, a process that is very expensive in officer time and money probably running into tens of thousands, to dispose of a well used public facility against the wishes of local residents?
I repeat the words from the introduction to this item…. ‘Public and stakeholder engagement are essential parts of this process’………why then don’t you listen when the public engage?
AFTER THE MEETING Cllr Poole said "being cut short by Cllr Ezekiel just confirmed exactly what I was trying to explain - this Conservative administration only wants to listen to those who totally agree with all they say".
Cllr. Alan Poole - Phone: 01843 602594
Item 7 MARGATE FLOOD PROTECTION SCHEME - Cllr. PETER CAMPBELL
We welcome news that the Labour Government has allocated an initial £4 million pounds to improve flood protection for Margate. It has been decided that major investment is vital to move to a 1 in 200 year flooding risk for the seafront and Old Town areas. The association of British Insurers has warned that failure to invest in adequate flood defences on the east coast could result in £16 billion worth of damage due to future North Sea storm surges similar to events in 1987, 1978, 1971 and 1953.
Flood protection at Margate has been a constant task since the Nayland Rock Stone Groyne and the Harbour Arm were first constructed at the start of the nineteenth century. These two sea defences shaped the famous Margate Main sands that helped to make the town a famous seaside resort. However, rising sea levels in this century now make additional work necessary.
Following an Environment Agency grant of £98,000 in 2009, a feasibility study has now produced two different options. The first plan would consist of a new 7m concrete sea wall constructed along Marine Drive, this would rise to around 2m higher than the existing wall now running alongside the pavement. The second, more favourable plan is for stepped revetments from the beach level up to a new wall, marginally higher than the present one, thus preserving the views out to seaward. Both these options would be in addition to the necessary reinforcement works to the Harbour Arm.
Although the preferred option will require extra government funding from the Environment Agency, in addition to the allocated £4million, this plan has been recommended by both the Margate Renewal Partnership Board and the Urban Design Panel. This major funding from central government is in addition to the many millions already allocated for regeneration projects in Margate in recent years.
This is yet another example of the Labour Government investing in Thanet & the people of Thanet. New Schools, Refurbished Hospitals, £40million Cliftonville regeneration, Surestart, / Cllr CAMPBELL WAS CUT SHORT AT THIS POINT BY THE CHAIRMAN - Cllr EZEKIEL / but Cllr Campbell intended to continue: pension credits, winter fuel allowance, working families tax credits the list goes on. All will be put at risk if a Tory Government takes over at the next election.
Cllr. Peter Campbell - Phone: 01843 585738
Item 8 PLANNING OBLIGATIONS & DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS - Cllr. CLIVE HART
Where financial contributions are obtained from developers for transport, education or adult social services it is essential that the sums gained are rigorously monitored and tracked in order to make absolutely sure they are used for the benefit of local people here in Thanet. They most certainly should not be allowed to simply disappear into any KCC departmental 'black hole' in Maidstone.
Stephen Ladyman MP meets early career scientists helping the House of Commons to get ‘SET for Britain’
Local MP, Stephen Ladyman, welcomed Sally-Ann Fancy an early-career researcher at Pfizer, Sandwich to the House of Commons on Monday 8th March to compete in the national scientific poster competition, SET for Britain.SET for Britain is an exhibition of posters by early-stage and early-career research scientists, engineers and technologists. The exhibition gives them the opportunity to present their work to their local MPs and their scientific peers. All posters are entered into a competition and significant cash prizes and medals will be awarded for the poster that best communicates its science.
Stephen, said,
“I was delighted to see my Sally-Ann taking part in this competition. The entries were all of an extremely high standard and it was excellent to speak to so many early career scientists with such passion for the work they do.
As someone who also started my career as a research scientist, and who came to South Thanet 20 years ago to work at Pfizer, before becoming the local MP I was especially pleased to meet Sally-Ann and hear about her work.”
Constituent said,
“I enjoyed taking part in SET for Britain and meeting other early career scientists from across the country who are working in such diverse areas and on innovative projects. I very much welcomed the opportunity to talk to my MP about my own research.”
The SET for Britain Poster Exhibition was divided up into three sections, Physical Sciences (Chemistry and Physics) Biological and Biomedical Science; and Engineering with a £3,000 cash prize and medal awarded to the best poster in each category. An overall medal in memory of the competition founder, Dr Eric Wharton, is awarded to the poster judged best across all categories on the day.
***ENDS***
Notes to editors
1. SET for Britain was established by Dr Eric Wharton. Following his untimely death in 2007; the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee with support from the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Institute of Physics, the Society of Biology and the SCI. Our industry sponsors are AgChemAccess, IATC, Plant Impact and Monitise plc.
2. Winners in each category will receive a £3,000 cash prize and a medal and the runner up will receive a £1,000 cash prize.
Thursday, 11 March 2010
THANET YOUNGSTERS LEARN ABOUT WATER SAFETY
Water safety around the Thanet coast is high on the agenda for Thanet schools, as two weeks of school water safety lectures start on Monday 15 March.
The "Water Safety in Thanet" school lectures are run this year by a partnership of organisations and are coordinated by the Thanet Coast Project, with support from the Big Lottery Fund. The talks focus on the dangers around the Thanet coastline, how to stay safe, have fun on the beaches and look after the environment. The talks include sessions with representatives from the lifeguards (Chris Betts, Thanet Leisureforce), Coastguards (Dave Melmoth, MCA and RNLI) and Thanet Coast Project (Suzie Hooper).
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "These immensely popular schools lectures are a vitally important part of promoting the message about water safety with local children, as the coastline plays such a huge part in all our lives. I'm delighted that the Thanet Coast Project are working in partnership with the coastguards, lifeguards and lifeboats to run these school sessions. The coastline is our largest open space, and children spend much of their holidays having fun and enjoying our beautiful beaches and we want to ensure that they know how to stay safe."
Andy Roberts, from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, said: "We're fully committed to preventing loss of life, continuously improving maritime and foreshore safety and protecting the marine environment. These water safety lectures are an excellent opportunity to help promote water safety, and are backed by a superb locally produced video 'Water Safety in Thanet' that has been nationally recognised as a great example of promoting the national water safety codes in our local area."
Further information about 'Water Safety in Thanet' can be found and viewed at www.thanetcoast.org.uk
The "Water Safety in Thanet" school lectures are run this year by a partnership of organisations and are coordinated by the Thanet Coast Project, with support from the Big Lottery Fund. The talks focus on the dangers around the Thanet coastline, how to stay safe, have fun on the beaches and look after the environment. The talks include sessions with representatives from the lifeguards (Chris Betts, Thanet Leisureforce), Coastguards (Dave Melmoth, MCA and RNLI) and Thanet Coast Project (Suzie Hooper).
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "These immensely popular schools lectures are a vitally important part of promoting the message about water safety with local children, as the coastline plays such a huge part in all our lives. I'm delighted that the Thanet Coast Project are working in partnership with the coastguards, lifeguards and lifeboats to run these school sessions. The coastline is our largest open space, and children spend much of their holidays having fun and enjoying our beautiful beaches and we want to ensure that they know how to stay safe."
Andy Roberts, from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, said: "We're fully committed to preventing loss of life, continuously improving maritime and foreshore safety and protecting the marine environment. These water safety lectures are an excellent opportunity to help promote water safety, and are backed by a superb locally produced video 'Water Safety in Thanet' that has been nationally recognised as a great example of promoting the national water safety codes in our local area."
Further information about 'Water Safety in Thanet' can be found and viewed at www.thanetcoast.org.uk
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
MARGATE FLOOD & COAST PROTECTION SCHEME
From Cllr. John Watkins - Margate Central Ward - Thanet District Council (Cllr. Watkins is a former Naval Officer & a long-serving member of the Margate Lifeboat Crew). "Welcome news this week comes in a report that the Labour Government has allocated an initial £4 million pounds to improve flood protection for Margate. It has been decided that major investment is vital to move to a 1 in 200 year flooding risk for the seafront and Old Town areas. The association of British Insurers has warned that failure to invest in adequate flood defences on the east coast could result in £16 billion worth of damage due to future North Sea storm surges similar to events in 1987, 1978, 1971 and 1953.
Flood protection at Margate has been a constant task since the Nayland Rock Stone Groyne and the Harbour Arm were first constructed at the start of the nineteenth century. These two sea defences shaped the famous Margate Main sands that helped to make the town a famous seaside resort. However, rising sea levels in this century now make additional work necessary.
Following an Environment Agency grant of £98,000 in 2009, a feasibility study has now produced two different options. The first plan would consist of a new 7m concrete sea wall constructed along Marine Drive, this would rise to around 2m higher than the existing wall now running alongside the pavement. The second, more favourable plan is for stepped revetments from the beach level up to a new wall, marginally higher than the present one, thus preserving the views out to seaward. Both these options would be in addition to the necessary reinforcement works to the Harbour Arm.
Although the preferred option will require extra government funding from the Environment Agency, in addition to the allocated £4million, this plan has been recommended by both the Margate Renewal Partnership Board and the Urban Design Panel. This major funding from central government is in addition to the many millions already allocated for regeneration projects in Margate in recent years".
Cllr. Peter Campbell - Shadow Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development at TDC said "This is yet another example of the Labour Government investing in Thanet & the people of Thanet. New Schools, Refurbished Hospitals, £40million Cliftonville regeneration, Surestart, pension credits, winter fuel allowance, working families tax credits the list goes on. All will be put at risk if a Tory Government takes over at the next election".
Flood protection at Margate has been a constant task since the Nayland Rock Stone Groyne and the Harbour Arm were first constructed at the start of the nineteenth century. These two sea defences shaped the famous Margate Main sands that helped to make the town a famous seaside resort. However, rising sea levels in this century now make additional work necessary.
Following an Environment Agency grant of £98,000 in 2009, a feasibility study has now produced two different options. The first plan would consist of a new 7m concrete sea wall constructed along Marine Drive, this would rise to around 2m higher than the existing wall now running alongside the pavement. The second, more favourable plan is for stepped revetments from the beach level up to a new wall, marginally higher than the present one, thus preserving the views out to seaward. Both these options would be in addition to the necessary reinforcement works to the Harbour Arm.
Although the preferred option will require extra government funding from the Environment Agency, in addition to the allocated £4million, this plan has been recommended by both the Margate Renewal Partnership Board and the Urban Design Panel. This major funding from central government is in addition to the many millions already allocated for regeneration projects in Margate in recent years".
Cllr. Peter Campbell - Shadow Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development at TDC said "This is yet another example of the Labour Government investing in Thanet & the people of Thanet. New Schools, Refurbished Hospitals, £40million Cliftonville regeneration, Surestart, pension credits, winter fuel allowance, working families tax credits the list goes on. All will be put at risk if a Tory Government takes over at the next election".
GATEWAY CUSTOMERS SATISFIED WITH SERVICE
New survey results show customers at Thanet's Gateway Plus are satisfied with the service they receive.
More than 150 people who visited the Gateway were randomly selected to take part in the survey to find out what they thought of the service they received, how long they waited, whether they could find what they were looking for and the convenience and comfort of the building.
Of those who responded, 99% were satisfied with the professionalism of staff at the Gateway, while 91% were satisfied with the level of service they received from staff. 80% of people questioned said that they were confident, before they came to the Gateway, that their enquiry would be handled to their satisfaction. When asked how confident they felt that a similar request would be dealt with in the future, the percentage rose to 86%.
Over one third of the people surveyed had visited the Gateway to borrow a book, while 12% visited to use the Internet, books or periodicals and online resources. 71% of people thought it was easy to find what they were looking for, which is a 10% increase since the previous survey. The numbers of people who found it difficult has also decreased to 2%. This comes after signage was replaced, reorganised and expanded to make it clearer to customers what is available.
Cllr. Simon Moores, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: "The results of these regular surveys continue to be exceptionally encouraging. Although there was, understandably, some concern when the Gateway first opened about blending together council and library services, since then we have received excellent feedback from customers. It's clear that people using the Gateway are getting an improved service and these results highlight that. Where people have suggested improvements, we'll be looking at how we can use these suggestions."
Thanet's Gateway Plus is open from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, with late opening until 8pm on Thursdays. It is also open from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays. As well as library and Thanet District Council services, it also offers a range of services from 25 partner agencies.
More than 150 people who visited the Gateway were randomly selected to take part in the survey to find out what they thought of the service they received, how long they waited, whether they could find what they were looking for and the convenience and comfort of the building.
Of those who responded, 99% were satisfied with the professionalism of staff at the Gateway, while 91% were satisfied with the level of service they received from staff. 80% of people questioned said that they were confident, before they came to the Gateway, that their enquiry would be handled to their satisfaction. When asked how confident they felt that a similar request would be dealt with in the future, the percentage rose to 86%.
Over one third of the people surveyed had visited the Gateway to borrow a book, while 12% visited to use the Internet, books or periodicals and online resources. 71% of people thought it was easy to find what they were looking for, which is a 10% increase since the previous survey. The numbers of people who found it difficult has also decreased to 2%. This comes after signage was replaced, reorganised and expanded to make it clearer to customers what is available.
Cllr. Simon Moores, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: "The results of these regular surveys continue to be exceptionally encouraging. Although there was, understandably, some concern when the Gateway first opened about blending together council and library services, since then we have received excellent feedback from customers. It's clear that people using the Gateway are getting an improved service and these results highlight that. Where people have suggested improvements, we'll be looking at how we can use these suggestions."
Thanet's Gateway Plus is open from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, with late opening until 8pm on Thursdays. It is also open from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays. As well as library and Thanet District Council services, it also offers a range of services from 25 partner agencies.
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
New documents published by Thanet District Council,
08/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Treasury Management Update : Treasury Management Update: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
02/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Supplementary Agenda : Supplementary Agenda: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
02/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
02/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
02/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 7:00PM, Cabinet
01/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 1 2010 10:00AM, Licensing Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 18 2010 6:00PM, Joint Transportation Board
08/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 16 2010 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
02/03/2010 - Agenda supplement published - Supplementary Agenda : Supplementary Agenda: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
02/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 5:30PM, Airport Working Party
02/03/2010 - Minutes published: Meeting of Feb 17 2010 7:00PM, Planning Committee
02/03/2010 - Agenda published: Meeting of Mar 11 2010 7:00PM, Cabinet
01/03/2010 - Meeting held: Mar 1 2010 10:00AM, Licensing Board
CHILDREN SIGN THE WAY ON DOG FOULING
Primary school children in Ramsgate are sign posting the way on dog fouling, after winning a competition to design new signs to encourage people to pick after their dogs.
Dog fouling was identified by PACT panels (Partners and Communities Together) in the Central Harbour, Eastcliff and Newington areas of Ramsgate as a priority for them.
As a result, community wardens and council officers from Thanet District Council and PCSOs from Kent Police visited Newington Primary School, Priory Infants School and St. Ethelbert's Catholic Primary School to talk to pupils about responsible dog ownership. An interactive game was used to show children how to pick up after their dogs and use dog bins correctly.
The children were also asked to design new signs, with messages about dog fouling, with the winning signs going on display in parks and open areas in Ramsgate. In total, six different designs have been used, with two winners from each school. The posters highlight the dangers of diseases in dog mess that can cause blindness, especially in young children and also remind people that anyone who fails to pick up after their dog could receive an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "Dog fouling is something that local people have told us they want action taken on and that's exactly what we're doing. We've already got zero tolerance on anyone who fails to pick up after their dog, but as well as enforcement, we also need to be educating people. One way of doing that is by getting into schools and getting the message across at an early age. Hopefully these striking posters designed by the children will also help to get the message across to the small irresponsible minority of dog owners who fail to clean up after their dogs."
The winners were Eloise Sheppard (11) and Abigail Wilson (11) from Newington Community Primary School, Oliver Vaughan (6) and Oliver Benjamin (10) from St. Ethelbert's Catholic Primary School and Iona Wheeler (7) and Molly Quittenden (7) from Priory Infants School.
Dog fouling was identified by PACT panels (Partners and Communities Together) in the Central Harbour, Eastcliff and Newington areas of Ramsgate as a priority for them.
As a result, community wardens and council officers from Thanet District Council and PCSOs from Kent Police visited Newington Primary School, Priory Infants School and St. Ethelbert's Catholic Primary School to talk to pupils about responsible dog ownership. An interactive game was used to show children how to pick up after their dogs and use dog bins correctly.
The children were also asked to design new signs, with messages about dog fouling, with the winning signs going on display in parks and open areas in Ramsgate. In total, six different designs have been used, with two winners from each school. The posters highlight the dangers of diseases in dog mess that can cause blindness, especially in young children and also remind people that anyone who fails to pick up after their dog could receive an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "Dog fouling is something that local people have told us they want action taken on and that's exactly what we're doing. We've already got zero tolerance on anyone who fails to pick up after their dog, but as well as enforcement, we also need to be educating people. One way of doing that is by getting into schools and getting the message across at an early age. Hopefully these striking posters designed by the children will also help to get the message across to the small irresponsible minority of dog owners who fail to clean up after their dogs."
The winners were Eloise Sheppard (11) and Abigail Wilson (11) from Newington Community Primary School, Oliver Vaughan (6) and Oliver Benjamin (10) from St. Ethelbert's Catholic Primary School and Iona Wheeler (7) and Molly Quittenden (7) from Priory Infants School.
Monday, 8 March 2010
RUN THE THANET MILE
One of the country's top young hurdlers is encouraging people to rise to the challenge and do the Thanet Mile in Ramsgate for Sport Relief.
Jack Green, who represents Great Britain at under 17 level in the 400 metres hurdles has joined forces with representatives from Thanet District Council's Sport Matters team and Sainsbury's Thanet, who are organising the event.
Mile events are being held across the UK as part of this year's Sport Relief and the Thanet Mile will take place at the Marlowe Academy Community Athletics Track in Ramsgate on Sunday 21 March. There are options of running either one, three or six miles, with all money raised going to Sport Relief to help poor and disadvantaged people in the UK and abroad.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "Thousands of people across the UK will be rising to the challenge to do their bit for Sport Relief this year. Thanet will be playing its part and we hope to see lots of local people turning out to either run one, three or six miles or support those who will be taking part."
To register, visit the Thanet Mile website at http://www.sportrelief.com/the-mile/thanet-mile or call Colin Rouse on 01843 577032 for more information. Entry fees, which only help to cover the cost of staging the event, are £5 for adults aged 16 or over, £2 for children under 16 and a discounted family rate of £12 for two adults and two children.
Jack Green, who represents Great Britain at under 17 level in the 400 metres hurdles has joined forces with representatives from Thanet District Council's Sport Matters team and Sainsbury's Thanet, who are organising the event.
Mile events are being held across the UK as part of this year's Sport Relief and the Thanet Mile will take place at the Marlowe Academy Community Athletics Track in Ramsgate on Sunday 21 March. There are options of running either one, three or six miles, with all money raised going to Sport Relief to help poor and disadvantaged people in the UK and abroad.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "Thousands of people across the UK will be rising to the challenge to do their bit for Sport Relief this year. Thanet will be playing its part and we hope to see lots of local people turning out to either run one, three or six miles or support those who will be taking part."
To register, visit the Thanet Mile website at http://www.sportrelief.com/the-mile/thanet-mile or call Colin Rouse on 01843 577032 for more information. Entry fees, which only help to cover the cost of staging the event, are £5 for adults aged 16 or over, £2 for children under 16 and a discounted family rate of £12 for two adults and two children.
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