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
25 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0034
21 ST. MILDREDS ROAD WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88RE
current
25 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0041
112 NORTHDOWN ROAD MARGATE CT92RE
current
25 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0057
22 NELSON VILLAS QUEX ROAD WESTGATE ON SEA CT88BN
current
24 Jan 2011
A/TH/11/0035
THE KENT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL, HARBOUR PARADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8LZ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1087
19 THE RIDINGS, MARGATE, CT9 3EJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1094
LAND AT THE JUNCTION OF WILDERNESS HILL AND, DANE ROAD, MARGATE
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0011
WYEVALE COUNTRY GARDENS, MONTEFIORE AVENUE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8BW
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0015
GORE END FARM, MINNIS ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9SJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0032
14 HAROLD AVENUE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88QU
current
24 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0043
DOWNBARTON FARMHOUSE, DOWN BARTON ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT70QQ
current
Monday, 31 January 2011
New documents published by Thanet District Council
28/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 19 2011 7:00PM, Planning Committee
26/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
26/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
26/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
26/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
Census Job Opportunities
Time is running out for Thanet residents to sign up for jobs for this year’s Census, which takes place at the end of March.
The final phase of recruitment is now underway and is being carried out by Capita on behalf of the Office for National Statistics who are responsible for the 2011 Census.
They want to recruit local people for local roles, wherever possible, for the Census which takes place on Sunday 27 March 2011. Some of the jobs may cover areas outside of Thanet.
Most census collector posts, who contact householders if they have not filled in the census questionnaires, have already been recruited in Thanet, but there are still vacancies in Birchington, Manston, Minster and St. Nicholas-at-Wade. Other jobs include survey team managers who train up interviewers and positions in the non-compliance team which investigates cases where people have not completed the Census. This can eventually lead to criminal prosecution.
For full details about the jobs on offer, please visit www.censusjobs.co.uk All applications have to be made online and applications cannot be accepted by the council.
The final phase of recruitment is now underway and is being carried out by Capita on behalf of the Office for National Statistics who are responsible for the 2011 Census.
They want to recruit local people for local roles, wherever possible, for the Census which takes place on Sunday 27 March 2011. Some of the jobs may cover areas outside of Thanet.
Most census collector posts, who contact householders if they have not filled in the census questionnaires, have already been recruited in Thanet, but there are still vacancies in Birchington, Manston, Minster and St. Nicholas-at-Wade. Other jobs include survey team managers who train up interviewers and positions in the non-compliance team which investigates cases where people have not completed the Census. This can eventually lead to criminal prosecution.
For full details about the jobs on offer, please visit www.censusjobs.co.uk All applications have to be made online and applications cannot be accepted by the council.
100 PEOPLE WANTED TO SING!
If you’ve ever wanted to sing rock, pop, music, theatre or contemporary music, and want to learn some great music and have some fun, then Thanet’s Big Sing is for you.
The Big Sing is all about forming a singing group, specialising in modern music. In total, around a hundred people are needed for two performances in April around the opening of Turner Contemporary, with rehearsals getting underway from Tuesday 8 February.
Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “The Big Sing is looking for people who have always wanted to sing and have some fun at the same time. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to sing in a choir, but felt it might not be not be for you. Well, this will be! We want enthusiastic people who want to be a part of Turner Contemporary’s opening, which will be a huge event for the whole of Thanet.”
It’s being led by international conductor, composer and musician Tony Castro and composer and music director Orlando Gough. Tony is well known for his work in the West End, at the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Orlando has written and performed across the world, writing mostly for the theatre. He also creates and directs large-scale site specific choral pieces.
Weekly rehearsals will take place on Tuesday evenings from Tuesday 8 February and you can register for a place, or find out more details, by contacting Heather Sawney, the council’s Arts Development Officer either by e-mailing heather.sawney@thanet.gov.uk or by calling 01843 577428. The rehearsals will introduce people to a wide range of modern music, from the West End, rock and pop and will also look at a new contemporary piece by Orlando Gough.
This new piece of music is being specially composed for two performances, one of which will be on Sunday 17 April, while the other will take place on Saturday 23 April at the new Turner Contemporary gallery.
If the Big Sing group proves to be successful, then it may continue with guest music directors. The Big Sing' is supported and funded by Arts Council England Grants for the Arts programme, Turner Contemporary and Thanet District Council.
The Big Sing is all about forming a singing group, specialising in modern music. In total, around a hundred people are needed for two performances in April around the opening of Turner Contemporary, with rehearsals getting underway from Tuesday 8 February.
Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “The Big Sing is looking for people who have always wanted to sing and have some fun at the same time. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to sing in a choir, but felt it might not be not be for you. Well, this will be! We want enthusiastic people who want to be a part of Turner Contemporary’s opening, which will be a huge event for the whole of Thanet.”
It’s being led by international conductor, composer and musician Tony Castro and composer and music director Orlando Gough. Tony is well known for his work in the West End, at the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Orlando has written and performed across the world, writing mostly for the theatre. He also creates and directs large-scale site specific choral pieces.
Weekly rehearsals will take place on Tuesday evenings from Tuesday 8 February and you can register for a place, or find out more details, by contacting Heather Sawney, the council’s Arts Development Officer either by e-mailing heather.sawney@thanet.gov.uk or by calling 01843 577428. The rehearsals will introduce people to a wide range of modern music, from the West End, rock and pop and will also look at a new contemporary piece by Orlando Gough.
This new piece of music is being specially composed for two performances, one of which will be on Sunday 17 April, while the other will take place on Saturday 23 April at the new Turner Contemporary gallery.
If the Big Sing group proves to be successful, then it may continue with guest music directors. The Big Sing' is supported and funded by Arts Council England Grants for the Arts programme, Turner Contemporary and Thanet District Council.
Thanet-trained TV chef to judge national kid's cookery award
Kent TV chef Richard Phillips backs Guild of Food Writers’ Cook It! competition
Kent-based TV chef Richard Phillips is to judge the finalists of the Cook It! annual children’s competition organised by the Guild of Food Writers and sponsored by Gold Top milk.
Entries are open until 28th April for youngsters who were aged 10 to 14 on 31st August 2010 to submit their own recipes for a two-course meal for 2 – 4 people and take no longer than an hour and a half to prepare.
Six finalists will be invited on an all expenses paid trip to London on 9th June 2011, to the kitchens of BBC Good Food Magazine to prepare their meals for a panel of judges, including Richard Phillips. BBC Good Food magazine will also publish a feature about the day.
Dishes do not have to be complicated but should show originality and skill, with marks also being given for recipe writing skills and presentation.
The winner will be invited in to experience working as a real chef in the kitchens of one of Richard Phillps’s four Kent restaurants – Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells, Richard Phillips @ Chapel Down near Tenterden, Hengist in Aylesford or The Pearson’s Arms by Richard Phillips in Whitstable – and prepare lunch for themselves and three guests.
Richard Phillips, a champion of Kent food and drink also sponsors the Kent Young Chef of the Year award which is organised by Produced in Kent.
“It’s an honour to inspire young people and to reinforce their enthusiasm and passion,” said Richard adding, “The talent and flair of some of the kids today is amazing, many tackling challenging ingredients with a high degree of technical skill.”
Application forms can be downloaded at www.gfw.co.uk
Kent-based TV chef Richard Phillips is to judge the finalists of the Cook It! annual children’s competition organised by the Guild of Food Writers and sponsored by Gold Top milk.
Entries are open until 28th April for youngsters who were aged 10 to 14 on 31st August 2010 to submit their own recipes for a two-course meal for 2 – 4 people and take no longer than an hour and a half to prepare.
Six finalists will be invited on an all expenses paid trip to London on 9th June 2011, to the kitchens of BBC Good Food Magazine to prepare their meals for a panel of judges, including Richard Phillips. BBC Good Food magazine will also publish a feature about the day.
Dishes do not have to be complicated but should show originality and skill, with marks also being given for recipe writing skills and presentation.
The winner will be invited in to experience working as a real chef in the kitchens of one of Richard Phillps’s four Kent restaurants – Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells, Richard Phillips @ Chapel Down near Tenterden, Hengist in Aylesford or The Pearson’s Arms by Richard Phillips in Whitstable – and prepare lunch for themselves and three guests.
Richard Phillips, a champion of Kent food and drink also sponsors the Kent Young Chef of the Year award which is organised by Produced in Kent.
“It’s an honour to inspire young people and to reinforce their enthusiasm and passion,” said Richard adding, “The talent and flair of some of the kids today is amazing, many tackling challenging ingredients with a high degree of technical skill.”
Application forms can be downloaded at www.gfw.co.uk
THANET ON FILM WEEK
COMING UP – THANET ON FILM WEEK!
Interest in seeing a film about Thanet has been so high that the producers have declared the week beginning February 7th “Thanet On Film week”
Film-maker Christine Tongue says that recent screenings in Ramsgate and Westgate have prompted such interest that additional showings have been arranged in both towns.
“We have been absolutely inundated with enquiries about the film,” Christine said. “It just shows how interested people are in the past, present and future of the isle.”
Screenings in cinemas in Ramsgate and Westgate were packed out, with many people having to be turned away.
“It was really heart-warming to see people turning up in such large numbers at their local cinema,” Christine said. “This is exactly what independent cinemas can do so well – act as a hub for the local community.”
The film will be now shown in the Carlton Cinema, Westgate on Tuesday February 8th and in the Granville Cinema, Ramsgate on Friday February 11th and Saturday 12th at 7.30pm. There will also be a special matinee screening in Ramsgate on Saturday 12th at 2.30pm.
“But if there’s even more demand extra screenings may be arranged,” said Christine.
The film includes vintage footage of Thanet from the 1920s to the 1970s and explores the impact of the decline in seaside holidays on the area.
The film also features interviews with Thanet Council leader Bob Bayford, local MP Laura Sandys, and items on China Gateway and Manston Airport.
It ends by offering a fascinating glimpse at the future for Thanet and asks whether plans for regeneration are likely to materialise.
The screening will be followed by a discussion with the film-makers and a chance for the audience to put their views.
Interest in seeing a film about Thanet has been so high that the producers have declared the week beginning February 7th “Thanet On Film week”
Film-maker Christine Tongue says that recent screenings in Ramsgate and Westgate have prompted such interest that additional showings have been arranged in both towns.
“We have been absolutely inundated with enquiries about the film,” Christine said. “It just shows how interested people are in the past, present and future of the isle.”
Screenings in cinemas in Ramsgate and Westgate were packed out, with many people having to be turned away.
“It was really heart-warming to see people turning up in such large numbers at their local cinema,” Christine said. “This is exactly what independent cinemas can do so well – act as a hub for the local community.”
The film will be now shown in the Carlton Cinema, Westgate on Tuesday February 8th and in the Granville Cinema, Ramsgate on Friday February 11th and Saturday 12th at 7.30pm. There will also be a special matinee screening in Ramsgate on Saturday 12th at 2.30pm.
“But if there’s even more demand extra screenings may be arranged,” said Christine.
The film includes vintage footage of Thanet from the 1920s to the 1970s and explores the impact of the decline in seaside holidays on the area.
The film also features interviews with Thanet Council leader Bob Bayford, local MP Laura Sandys, and items on China Gateway and Manston Airport.
It ends by offering a fascinating glimpse at the future for Thanet and asks whether plans for regeneration are likely to materialise.
The screening will be followed by a discussion with the film-makers and a chance for the audience to put their views.
Friday, 28 January 2011
Thanet District Council how much money they spent with which firms last month
Due to the new legislation the council now has to publish details of expenditure instances over £500, this is a very detailed résumé of where the money is going, for last December’s figures click on the links,
pdf http://www.thanet.gov.uk/pdf/ThanetDistrictCouncilSupplierSpendOver%C2%A3500_Dec.2010.pdf
csv, this should open in Excel and similar programs if you have them installed on your computer http://www.thanet.gov.uk/files/ThanetDistrictCouncilSupplierSpendOver%C2%A3500-Dec.2010.csv and is easier to organise and calculate totals with.
pdf http://www.thanet.gov.uk/pdf/ThanetDistrictCouncilSupplierSpendOver%C2%A3500_Dec.2010.pdf
csv, this should open in Excel and similar programs if you have them installed on your computer http://www.thanet.gov.uk/files/ThanetDistrictCouncilSupplierSpendOver%C2%A3500-Dec.2010.csv and is easier to organise and calculate totals with.
Thursday, 27 January 2011
RESPONSE TO MARK NOTTINGHAM'S 'OPEN' LETTER TO ME Cllr Clive Hart
Mark Nottingham's wildly inaccurate and defamatory allegations made in his 'open letter' to me have come as a great disappointment. He appears to be very angry at the situation he finds himself in, and sadly he is therefore lashing out at anyone and everyone, whilst totally failing to look at himself.
Firstly, I can't help but note the timing of Mark's 'open letter' to me which coincides with my having two close relatives (my mother and brother) in hospital, both fighting extremely serious and potentially life threatening conditions.
Mark's sad and anxious rant is full of inaccuracies, false allegations and ridiculous innuendo and it says far more about him and his state of mind than it does about myself or any other member of the Labour Party.
I have a longstanding and completely unblemished reputation and in particular I have spent the last two decades, leading, supporting and working passionately with and for numerous community, voluntary and political organisations at local, county and national level. My life is an open book. My comprehensive CV is attached to this email and absolutely anyone can follow my daily life through twitter & facebook on the internet.
Labour is a democratic party and local branches choose their own candidates for town, district and county elections, it was therefore Mark's own Ramsgate branch who decided to 'deselect' him. I am a member of Cliftonville branch and I took absolutely no part in the selection meeting held in Ramsgate. I feel extremely sorry for Mark but at the end of the day, members of his own branch, for whatever reason, decided they didn't want him to be their candidate in the 2011 elections. If I were Mark I would be asking myself what had I done to make that happen, not trying to point the finger at everyone else.
Mark's concerns have been thoroughly investigated and rejected by all the relevant bodies and committees here locally in Thanet and following yet further and extremely thorough investigation, the Labour Party South East Regional Director has confirmed "Labour's candidates for Thanet District Council were selected by the Labour Party's agreed process. The allegations made by Mark Nottingham have been fully investigated by the Labour Party and all of his complaints have been dismissed. Mark Nottingham is not a candidate for the Labour Party for the Thanet District Council elections".
Unfortunately, Mark will simply not accept the situation.
Those are the facts, but for clarification of the situation that Mark finds himself in, I now introduce a statement that I would swear to be true in any court in the land:
__________
"On the Saturday morning following the Ramsgate TDC selection meeting in 2010, Mark Nottingham appeared behind me in a car park just off of Northdown Road in Margate, as I was parking my own car.
He came up to me and started to complain that 'someone' had told him I had somehow arranged for him to be de-selected.
I told him he was daft and that I had absolutely no part in the proceedings. Indeed, as group leader, his deselection as a candidate had caused me all kinds of problems. I also told him I was only present in the room on that evening to make the meeting chorate if I was needed (as per party rules). I wasn't needed but I stayed simply to be respectful to all candidates (as did the rest of the Executive Committee). I also told Mark - absolutely truthfully - that had I been allowed to vote, I MOST CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE VOTED FOR HIM.
I then asked Mark who exactly had been saying I'd been working against him, because I wanted to speak to them personally and put them right - I was very assertive with this reply because I knew I had done absolutely no such thing. Mark would not say who and I can only imagine his original suggestion that I was involved in some way was some kind of trick to 'out' me as 'someone against him', if it were true. It didn't work because IT SIMPLY WAS NOT TRUE!
MORE IMPORTANTLY, because I had been so assertive with my absolutely truthful response he then started to get very agitated and told me he didn't care about next year’s local elections and that he would 'shred' all those involved in the selection process. He most certainly used the word ‘shred’ in relation to those involved and although I can’t remember his precise words he definitely said he didn’t care about next year’s elections.
He then walked off and across the road to the Labour office. I was extremely annoyed by his ridiculous allegations and even more so regarding his comments about 'shredding' fellow members and his total disregard for his Labour colleagues and the forthcoming local elections.
I got back into my car, drove out of the car park and stopped just outside the Labour office. I entered and stood in the doorway. In front of at least four other members I shouted from the doorway across the room at Mark that I was appalled by his ridiculous allegations, his remark about shredding his fellow members and his attitude towards the 2011 elections. I added "what happened to you at the selection meeting was a tragedy and as I said, had I been allowed to vote I would have voted for you, but after your comments across the road in the car park just then, I can only say the Ramsgate members made the right decision at your selection meeting, whatever their reasons".
The next morning I met with Mark and another member in the same office in an effort to reconcile matters and by the end of our hour and a half long meeting I truly thought I had convinced Mark of the truth that I had absolutely nothing to do with his deselection. I felt we were leaving that meeting on good terms so I told Mark I would put his appalling comments made in the car park down to his anger and forget the whole matter.
Unfortunately, despite the total absurdity of his allegations, Mark has continued to blame myself and several other innocent members over this matter, and to this very day. He absolutely fails to see that he himself could be in any way responsible for what was clearly his own unpopularity with his Ramsgate colleagues".
__________
I repeat, I am quite prepared to swear the statement above to be true in any court in the land.
I am a team player and always have been. However, I simply refuse to be the leader of a group with a member who behaves in the manner of Mark Nottingham.
1) I therefore intend to stand down as the Leader of the Labour Group.
2) As I have done consistently, every single day for well over three weeks now, I will continue to visit and support my close family members in our local QEQM hospital.
3) I will remain a loyal Labour councillor and continue to work with colleagues Cllrs Linda Aldred and Doug Clark for the residents of Cliftonville West and to retain our seats at TDC, where we still have so much work to do.
4) I will continue in my role as secretary of Cliftonville Labour Party.
5) I will most certainly continue with all my numerous voluntary and community roles in organisations across Thanet.
6) I will consider the possibility of any further roles within Thanet Labour Group after the May elections, if and when I am re-elected, in a group which the Regional Director has clearly stated will not include Mark Nottingham.
7) I will also be taking time to seriously consider possible legal action against Mark Nottingham.
Cllr Clive Hart
Ed. The attachment Clive sent me was really too big to put on the blog so here is the link to it http://www.michaelsbookshop.com/shop111/id3.htm
Firstly, I can't help but note the timing of Mark's 'open letter' to me which coincides with my having two close relatives (my mother and brother) in hospital, both fighting extremely serious and potentially life threatening conditions.
Mark's sad and anxious rant is full of inaccuracies, false allegations and ridiculous innuendo and it says far more about him and his state of mind than it does about myself or any other member of the Labour Party.
I have a longstanding and completely unblemished reputation and in particular I have spent the last two decades, leading, supporting and working passionately with and for numerous community, voluntary and political organisations at local, county and national level. My life is an open book. My comprehensive CV is attached to this email and absolutely anyone can follow my daily life through twitter & facebook on the internet.
Labour is a democratic party and local branches choose their own candidates for town, district and county elections, it was therefore Mark's own Ramsgate branch who decided to 'deselect' him. I am a member of Cliftonville branch and I took absolutely no part in the selection meeting held in Ramsgate. I feel extremely sorry for Mark but at the end of the day, members of his own branch, for whatever reason, decided they didn't want him to be their candidate in the 2011 elections. If I were Mark I would be asking myself what had I done to make that happen, not trying to point the finger at everyone else.
Mark's concerns have been thoroughly investigated and rejected by all the relevant bodies and committees here locally in Thanet and following yet further and extremely thorough investigation, the Labour Party South East Regional Director has confirmed "Labour's candidates for Thanet District Council were selected by the Labour Party's agreed process. The allegations made by Mark Nottingham have been fully investigated by the Labour Party and all of his complaints have been dismissed. Mark Nottingham is not a candidate for the Labour Party for the Thanet District Council elections".
Unfortunately, Mark will simply not accept the situation.
Those are the facts, but for clarification of the situation that Mark finds himself in, I now introduce a statement that I would swear to be true in any court in the land:
__________
"On the Saturday morning following the Ramsgate TDC selection meeting in 2010, Mark Nottingham appeared behind me in a car park just off of Northdown Road in Margate, as I was parking my own car.
He came up to me and started to complain that 'someone' had told him I had somehow arranged for him to be de-selected.
I told him he was daft and that I had absolutely no part in the proceedings. Indeed, as group leader, his deselection as a candidate had caused me all kinds of problems. I also told him I was only present in the room on that evening to make the meeting chorate if I was needed (as per party rules). I wasn't needed but I stayed simply to be respectful to all candidates (as did the rest of the Executive Committee). I also told Mark - absolutely truthfully - that had I been allowed to vote, I MOST CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE VOTED FOR HIM.
I then asked Mark who exactly had been saying I'd been working against him, because I wanted to speak to them personally and put them right - I was very assertive with this reply because I knew I had done absolutely no such thing. Mark would not say who and I can only imagine his original suggestion that I was involved in some way was some kind of trick to 'out' me as 'someone against him', if it were true. It didn't work because IT SIMPLY WAS NOT TRUE!
MORE IMPORTANTLY, because I had been so assertive with my absolutely truthful response he then started to get very agitated and told me he didn't care about next year’s local elections and that he would 'shred' all those involved in the selection process. He most certainly used the word ‘shred’ in relation to those involved and although I can’t remember his precise words he definitely said he didn’t care about next year’s elections.
He then walked off and across the road to the Labour office. I was extremely annoyed by his ridiculous allegations and even more so regarding his comments about 'shredding' fellow members and his total disregard for his Labour colleagues and the forthcoming local elections.
I got back into my car, drove out of the car park and stopped just outside the Labour office. I entered and stood in the doorway. In front of at least four other members I shouted from the doorway across the room at Mark that I was appalled by his ridiculous allegations, his remark about shredding his fellow members and his attitude towards the 2011 elections. I added "what happened to you at the selection meeting was a tragedy and as I said, had I been allowed to vote I would have voted for you, but after your comments across the road in the car park just then, I can only say the Ramsgate members made the right decision at your selection meeting, whatever their reasons".
The next morning I met with Mark and another member in the same office in an effort to reconcile matters and by the end of our hour and a half long meeting I truly thought I had convinced Mark of the truth that I had absolutely nothing to do with his deselection. I felt we were leaving that meeting on good terms so I told Mark I would put his appalling comments made in the car park down to his anger and forget the whole matter.
Unfortunately, despite the total absurdity of his allegations, Mark has continued to blame myself and several other innocent members over this matter, and to this very day. He absolutely fails to see that he himself could be in any way responsible for what was clearly his own unpopularity with his Ramsgate colleagues".
__________
I repeat, I am quite prepared to swear the statement above to be true in any court in the land.
I am a team player and always have been. However, I simply refuse to be the leader of a group with a member who behaves in the manner of Mark Nottingham.
1) I therefore intend to stand down as the Leader of the Labour Group.
2) As I have done consistently, every single day for well over three weeks now, I will continue to visit and support my close family members in our local QEQM hospital.
3) I will remain a loyal Labour councillor and continue to work with colleagues Cllrs Linda Aldred and Doug Clark for the residents of Cliftonville West and to retain our seats at TDC, where we still have so much work to do.
4) I will continue in my role as secretary of Cliftonville Labour Party.
5) I will most certainly continue with all my numerous voluntary and community roles in organisations across Thanet.
6) I will consider the possibility of any further roles within Thanet Labour Group after the May elections, if and when I am re-elected, in a group which the Regional Director has clearly stated will not include Mark Nottingham.
7) I will also be taking time to seriously consider possible legal action against Mark Nottingham.
Cllr Clive Hart
Ed. The attachment Clive sent me was really too big to put on the blog so here is the link to it http://www.michaelsbookshop.com/shop111/id3.htm
Tuesday, 25 January 2011
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
24 Jan 2011
A/TH/11/0035
THE KENT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL, HARBOUR PARADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8LZ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1087
19 THE RIDINGS, MARGATE, CT9 3EJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1094
LAND AT THE JUNCTION OF WILDERNESS HILL AND, DANE ROAD, MARGATE
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0011
WYEVALE COUNTRY GARDENS, MONTEFIORE AVENUE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8BW
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0015
GORE END FARM, MINNIS ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9SJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0032
14 HAROLD AVENUE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88QU
current
24 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0043
DOWNBARTON FARMHOUSE, DOWN BARTON ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT70QQ
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1050
53 HIGH STREET, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1JL
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1080
THE QUEX PARK ESTATES CO LTD, QUEX PARK, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 0BH
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0009
42-44 HARBOUR STREET, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HA
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0023
6 LAKING AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 3NE
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0026
21 STONE ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT101DZ
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0040
60 LISTER ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 4AF
current
20 Jan 2011
L/TH/10/1067
5 VICTORIA PARADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8DE
current
20 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0027
21 STONE ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT101DZ
current
20 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/0772
45-79 EATON ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 1XB
current
18 Jan 2011
C/TH/11/0014
31 YORK STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101PB
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1069
42 ASHBURNHAM ROAD RAMSGATE CT110BH
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0007
REEVES YARD, HAWLEY STREET, MARGATE
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0013
31 YORK STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101PB
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1031
116A HIGH STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1JW
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1053
ELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL, ELLINGTON PLACE. RAMSGATE. CT11 0QQ
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1091
SOMERFIELD MINSTER, TOTHILL STREET, MINSTER, RAMSGATE, CT12 4AY
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1097
FORTUNE HOUSE, 257 NORTHDOWN ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 2PN
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0005
MOYLERS, 219-221 NORTH DOWN ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 2PF
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0915
LOWER WAYFARING AND WAYFARING, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1008
1 MARLBOROUGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9BU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1037
2 ROSE HILL, RAMSGATE, CT11 9HX
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1076
210 CANTERBURY ROAD, EAST, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9AQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1084
53 ROYAL ESPLANADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 0HH
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0003
16 WOODVILLE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6DU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0004
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0012
33 THE VALE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1RB
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0016
20 BELMONT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LA
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0008
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0010
BLEAK HOUSE, FORT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1EY
current
24 Jan 2011
A/TH/11/0035
THE KENT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL, HARBOUR PARADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8LZ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1087
19 THE RIDINGS, MARGATE, CT9 3EJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1094
LAND AT THE JUNCTION OF WILDERNESS HILL AND, DANE ROAD, MARGATE
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0011
WYEVALE COUNTRY GARDENS, MONTEFIORE AVENUE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8BW
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0015
GORE END FARM, MINNIS ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9SJ
current
24 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0032
14 HAROLD AVENUE WESTGATE-ON-SEA CT88QU
current
24 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0043
DOWNBARTON FARMHOUSE, DOWN BARTON ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT70QQ
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1050
53 HIGH STREET, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1JL
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1080
THE QUEX PARK ESTATES CO LTD, QUEX PARK, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 0BH
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0009
42-44 HARBOUR STREET, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HA
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0023
6 LAKING AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 3NE
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0026
21 STONE ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT101DZ
current
20 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0040
60 LISTER ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 4AF
current
20 Jan 2011
L/TH/10/1067
5 VICTORIA PARADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8DE
current
20 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0027
21 STONE ROAD BROADSTAIRS CT101DZ
current
20 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/0772
45-79 EATON ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 1XB
current
18 Jan 2011
C/TH/11/0014
31 YORK STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101PB
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1069
42 ASHBURNHAM ROAD RAMSGATE CT110BH
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0007
REEVES YARD, HAWLEY STREET, MARGATE
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0013
31 YORK STREET BROADSTAIRS CT101PB
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1031
116A HIGH STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1JW
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1053
ELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL, ELLINGTON PLACE. RAMSGATE. CT11 0QQ
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1091
SOMERFIELD MINSTER, TOTHILL STREET, MINSTER, RAMSGATE, CT12 4AY
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1097
FORTUNE HOUSE, 257 NORTHDOWN ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 2PN
current
18 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0005
MOYLERS, 219-221 NORTH DOWN ROAD, MARGATE, CT9 2PF
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0915
LOWER WAYFARING AND WAYFARING, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1008
1 MARLBOROUGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9BU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1037
2 ROSE HILL, RAMSGATE, CT11 9HX
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1076
210 CANTERBURY ROAD, EAST, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9AQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1084
53 ROYAL ESPLANADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 0HH
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0003
16 WOODVILLE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6DU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0004
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0012
33 THE VALE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1RB
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0016
20 BELMONT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LA
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0008
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0010
BLEAK HOUSE, FORT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1EY
current
New documents published by Thanet District Council
26/01/2011 - Meeting scheduled: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
26/01/2011 - Meeting scheduled: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
24/01/2011 - Agenda supplement published - No. 1 : No. 1: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
20/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
20/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
20/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 20 2011 10:30AM, Airport Working Party
20/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 13 2011 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
19/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 19 2011 7:00PM, Planning Committee
19/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Dec 16 2010 10:30PM, Council
19/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Dec 16 2010 7:00PM, Council
18/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
18/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
18/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
17/01/2011 - Publication of plan: Forward Plan for period from 1 February 2011 to 1 August 2011; Cabinet
17/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 10 2011 2:30PM, Asset Management Working Party
14/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 12 2011 7:00PM, Cabinet
26/01/2011 - Meeting scheduled: Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
24/01/2011 - Agenda supplement published - No. 1 : No. 1: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
20/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
20/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
20/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 20 2011 10:30AM, Airport Working Party
20/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 13 2011 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
19/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 19 2011 7:00PM, Planning Committee
19/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Dec 16 2010 10:30PM, Council
19/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Dec 16 2010 7:00PM, Council
18/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, Constitutional Review Working Party
18/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 26 2011 10:00AM, East Kent Joint Arrangements Committee
18/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
17/01/2011 - Publication of plan: Forward Plan for period from 1 February 2011 to 1 August 2011; Cabinet
17/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 10 2011 2:30PM, Asset Management Working Party
14/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 12 2011 7:00PM, Cabinet
Race of the classics
Improvement works at Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour Marina mean that tall ships will not be visiting the town this spring.
The announcement, from Thanet District Council, which operates the harbour, has been made, as construction works for the new breakwater will be underway when the Race of the Classics takes place. The organisers of the event have already been contacted and alerted to the situation.
The Race of the Classics takes place every year, with a flotilla of tall ships departing from Rotterdam and heading to Belgium and the UK, before finishing in Amsterdam. Although the race has planned to visit Ramsgate in most years, between 2004 and 2009, weather prevented the ships from visiting for the majority of the time. Conditions only allowed for a total of three visits in six years.
Leader of the council, Cllr. Bob Bayford, said: “It’s a great shame that we won’t be able to accommodate the Race of the Classics this year, but the improvement work to the harbour is a priority and something that we know people want to see completed. We understand that people may be disappointed to hear this news, but the long term future of the harbour is the most important thing for us. We look forward to welcoming the tall ships and the Race of the Classics back to an improved Ramsgate Royal Harbour in 2012.”
The announcement, from Thanet District Council, which operates the harbour, has been made, as construction works for the new breakwater will be underway when the Race of the Classics takes place. The organisers of the event have already been contacted and alerted to the situation.
The Race of the Classics takes place every year, with a flotilla of tall ships departing from Rotterdam and heading to Belgium and the UK, before finishing in Amsterdam. Although the race has planned to visit Ramsgate in most years, between 2004 and 2009, weather prevented the ships from visiting for the majority of the time. Conditions only allowed for a total of three visits in six years.
Leader of the council, Cllr. Bob Bayford, said: “It’s a great shame that we won’t be able to accommodate the Race of the Classics this year, but the improvement work to the harbour is a priority and something that we know people want to see completed. We understand that people may be disappointed to hear this news, but the long term future of the harbour is the most important thing for us. We look forward to welcoming the tall ships and the Race of the Classics back to an improved Ramsgate Royal Harbour in 2012.”
Scheme at Newby's Place approved
Plans to build two semi-detached homes in the centre of Margate have been approved by Thanet District Council’s Planning Committee.
The scheme for the former garages at Newby’s Place was approved at last week’s Planning Committee (Wednesday 19 January), after members of the committee went on a site visit to see the issues for themselves.
Members decided to go to the site, after hearing objections to the plans from the nearby Beeping Bush gallery. They said that the building would be overbearing and would result in a loss of light to their business.
Members had already been told that planning permission was originally granted in 2005 for a pair of semi-detached houses on the site. However, after it was approved, it became clear that the scheme could not be implemented, as part of the building would overhang the highway and was therefore not within the site boundary.
The proposal that was approved is similar to the previous 2005 application, but the design of the building has been changed, so that it no longer hangs over the highway.
One of the major issues considered at the meeting was the impact on the amount of light entering the neighbouring property, which houses Beeping Bush. Members heard that, when the previous planning application came in, this issue had been looked at and it was concluded that there would be no significant impact which would justify refusal of that application.
Following a request from the Local Government Ombudsman, an independent light survey was carried out to assess the impact of the development, particularly on the art gallery. That report concluded that the proposed development would have “a very minor effect” on the skylight and sunlight available to the studio.
Cllr. Ken Gregory, Chairman of the Planning Committee, said: “Members were made aware that there were concerns from Beeping Bush about the loss of light to their property. To assess that, before making a decision on the planning application, we visited the site for ourselves, so that we could have a full understanding of the issues.”
The scheme for the former garages at Newby’s Place was approved at last week’s Planning Committee (Wednesday 19 January), after members of the committee went on a site visit to see the issues for themselves.
Members decided to go to the site, after hearing objections to the plans from the nearby Beeping Bush gallery. They said that the building would be overbearing and would result in a loss of light to their business.
Members had already been told that planning permission was originally granted in 2005 for a pair of semi-detached houses on the site. However, after it was approved, it became clear that the scheme could not be implemented, as part of the building would overhang the highway and was therefore not within the site boundary.
The proposal that was approved is similar to the previous 2005 application, but the design of the building has been changed, so that it no longer hangs over the highway.
One of the major issues considered at the meeting was the impact on the amount of light entering the neighbouring property, which houses Beeping Bush. Members heard that, when the previous planning application came in, this issue had been looked at and it was concluded that there would be no significant impact which would justify refusal of that application.
Following a request from the Local Government Ombudsman, an independent light survey was carried out to assess the impact of the development, particularly on the art gallery. That report concluded that the proposed development would have “a very minor effect” on the skylight and sunlight available to the studio.
Cllr. Ken Gregory, Chairman of the Planning Committee, said: “Members were made aware that there were concerns from Beeping Bush about the loss of light to their property. To assess that, before making a decision on the planning application, we visited the site for ourselves, so that we could have a full understanding of the issues.”
Friday, 21 January 2011
STAFF STRUCTURE SAVINGS AGREED
Changes to Thanet District Council’s staff structure, which will save over £1 million each year, have been agreed.
The proposals were discussed last night (Thursday 20 January) at a specially convened meeting of full council. They are designed to take the council forward, as it enters into sharing some of its services with its neighbouring authorities to provide a more cost effective way of working. These departments include customer services, revenues and benefits and the management of council housing.
The report also presented the full scale of cuts facing the council over the next two years, with reductions of £1.8 million needed in 2011/12 and £2 million in the following year. It comes after central government grants to councils were reduced in December. The planned new structure would generate most of the required savings for the next financial year.
Although the Chief Executive and senior managers would usually deal with staffing matters like this, the decision was put before Councillors because of the nature of the changes being proposed. The post of Chief Executive will be combined with the roles of the Chief Financial Officer/Section 151 Officer and Electoral Registration Officer.
As a result, the current Chief Executive, Richard Samuel, will be leaving the council in May 2011. The current Deputy Chief Executive, Sue McGonigal, has been appointed Chief Executive Designate. The council’s Monitoring Officer function will be assimilated into the role of the Corporate and Regulatory Services Manager. This function is recommended to stay with Harvey Patterson, the council’s current Head of Legal and Democratic Services. Both will now be assessed by an Appointments Panel to check they have the key competencies required for the new roles.
Council Leader, Cllr. Bob Bayford, said: “This is one of the key parts of our budget, as we head into the new financial year. I think we all know that every part of the public sector needs to make cuts over the next couple of years. It’s clear to us, that with the grant we’ll be receiving in the future, we can’t support our current staffing structure, especially as salaries make up the biggest element of the council’s expenditure. Therefore, we need to make changes. We’ve tried to make changes that impact as little as possible on front line services, so this restructure looks primarily at reducing overall management costs.”
He added: “We had already recognised some years ago that resources would become tighter and we have been working on plans to share services with other authorities in East Kent for a couple of years. As those start to come to fruition this year, we need to ensure that we have a structure in place that allows us to more dynamic and flexible, particularly as we move forward and more services enter the new arrangement.”
The plans are out to consultation with staff until early February and will be implemented after this date, in time for the start of the 2011/12 financial year.
The proposals were discussed last night (Thursday 20 January) at a specially convened meeting of full council. They are designed to take the council forward, as it enters into sharing some of its services with its neighbouring authorities to provide a more cost effective way of working. These departments include customer services, revenues and benefits and the management of council housing.
The report also presented the full scale of cuts facing the council over the next two years, with reductions of £1.8 million needed in 2011/12 and £2 million in the following year. It comes after central government grants to councils were reduced in December. The planned new structure would generate most of the required savings for the next financial year.
Although the Chief Executive and senior managers would usually deal with staffing matters like this, the decision was put before Councillors because of the nature of the changes being proposed. The post of Chief Executive will be combined with the roles of the Chief Financial Officer/Section 151 Officer and Electoral Registration Officer.
As a result, the current Chief Executive, Richard Samuel, will be leaving the council in May 2011. The current Deputy Chief Executive, Sue McGonigal, has been appointed Chief Executive Designate. The council’s Monitoring Officer function will be assimilated into the role of the Corporate and Regulatory Services Manager. This function is recommended to stay with Harvey Patterson, the council’s current Head of Legal and Democratic Services. Both will now be assessed by an Appointments Panel to check they have the key competencies required for the new roles.
Council Leader, Cllr. Bob Bayford, said: “This is one of the key parts of our budget, as we head into the new financial year. I think we all know that every part of the public sector needs to make cuts over the next couple of years. It’s clear to us, that with the grant we’ll be receiving in the future, we can’t support our current staffing structure, especially as salaries make up the biggest element of the council’s expenditure. Therefore, we need to make changes. We’ve tried to make changes that impact as little as possible on front line services, so this restructure looks primarily at reducing overall management costs.”
He added: “We had already recognised some years ago that resources would become tighter and we have been working on plans to share services with other authorities in East Kent for a couple of years. As those start to come to fruition this year, we need to ensure that we have a structure in place that allows us to more dynamic and flexible, particularly as we move forward and more services enter the new arrangement.”
The plans are out to consultation with staff until early February and will be implemented after this date, in time for the start of the 2011/12 financial year.
RUSHED STAFF STRUCTURE
TDC STAFF STRUCTURE DEBATE (20/01/2011)
Statement by Cllr Clive Hart - Labour Leader of the Opposition - TDC.
The Labour Group at TDC fully understand the need to scale down senior management at TDC and the need for staff restructuring. Indeed, my predecessor Cllr Richard Nicholson and our Labour Group have been warning about growing staffing levels at the council - particularly management roles - for many years now, and long before any financial crisis.
However, as with many of the schemes coming from central government at present, the proposals presented at Thursday's meeting appeared extremely rushed and rushed decisions, in my experience, are usually poor decisions.
We received the main report for Thursday's meeting very late indeed and when it did finally arrive it didn't have vital information for councillors that the District Auditor clearly asked for us all to be provided with. I repeated the request for the redundancy costs information concerned, and the Auditors letter, to be provided to councillors two days before the meeting, but I only received vague replies.
At 7pm and at the very start of Thursday's meeting, we did at last receive some of the information I requested, but once again we were being rushed to come to conclusions and make decisions based on that last minute information. Until we received this information, Labour and Independent councillors had only ever seen details of the benefits of the proposals and the inevitably enormous costs of redundancy payments had remained a very closely guarded secret.
Even then, my perfectly reasonable request for a thirty minute recess so that our councillors could read and discuss this important information was cut to fifteen minutes and the room provided (for that Group discussion) was cramped, unsuitable, and in another part of the building.
At a meeting of the council last year, during equally rushed discussions to reinstate the role of Deputy Chief Executive, Conservative Cabinet Member Cllr Wells clearly said "let's make the decision now and look at the detail later". Well that's not the way we do things in the Labour Group!
The fifteen minutes given to cross the building, discuss such vitally important technical information and then return to the chamber was simply not enough and our Group would not be 'bounced' into making crucial decisions under such circumstances.
When it came to voting the Labour Group therefore abstained.
Note:
1) The Auditors letter I requested was also denied to our Group, apparently on the basis that it was actually an email.
2) Labour councillors asked for the debate to be held in 'open session' but the ruling Conservative Group voted for the press and public to be removed.
Statement by Cllr Clive Hart - Labour Leader of the Opposition - TDC.
The Labour Group at TDC fully understand the need to scale down senior management at TDC and the need for staff restructuring. Indeed, my predecessor Cllr Richard Nicholson and our Labour Group have been warning about growing staffing levels at the council - particularly management roles - for many years now, and long before any financial crisis.
However, as with many of the schemes coming from central government at present, the proposals presented at Thursday's meeting appeared extremely rushed and rushed decisions, in my experience, are usually poor decisions.
We received the main report for Thursday's meeting very late indeed and when it did finally arrive it didn't have vital information for councillors that the District Auditor clearly asked for us all to be provided with. I repeated the request for the redundancy costs information concerned, and the Auditors letter, to be provided to councillors two days before the meeting, but I only received vague replies.
At 7pm and at the very start of Thursday's meeting, we did at last receive some of the information I requested, but once again we were being rushed to come to conclusions and make decisions based on that last minute information. Until we received this information, Labour and Independent councillors had only ever seen details of the benefits of the proposals and the inevitably enormous costs of redundancy payments had remained a very closely guarded secret.
Even then, my perfectly reasonable request for a thirty minute recess so that our councillors could read and discuss this important information was cut to fifteen minutes and the room provided (for that Group discussion) was cramped, unsuitable, and in another part of the building.
At a meeting of the council last year, during equally rushed discussions to reinstate the role of Deputy Chief Executive, Conservative Cabinet Member Cllr Wells clearly said "let's make the decision now and look at the detail later". Well that's not the way we do things in the Labour Group!
The fifteen minutes given to cross the building, discuss such vitally important technical information and then return to the chamber was simply not enough and our Group would not be 'bounced' into making crucial decisions under such circumstances.
When it came to voting the Labour Group therefore abstained.
Note:
1) The Auditors letter I requested was also denied to our Group, apparently on the basis that it was actually an email.
2) Labour councillors asked for the debate to be held in 'open session' but the ruling Conservative Group voted for the press and public to be removed.
New Year Resolutions
Getting back to Parliament at the beginning of a New Year you are constantly bumping into MPs with New Year’s resolutions about taking more exercise, eating less and working harder. Well I am signed up to all of that and more but also am committed to some new year’s resolutions for South Thanet.
I want to hold many more large meetings with special interest groups – with voluntary groups on the Localism Bill; meetings to discuss our changes in benefits with organisations that work with the disadvantaged; discussions with green campaigners about a new vision for our economy and also with our small business sector to ensure that they get the support that they need.
We need to ensure that Ministers come and see how unique Thanet and Sandwich are – both in a positive and challenging light. I am very pleased that Richard Benyon MP the fishing minister is planning to come down in the next few months to talk about the future of fishing and the flood defences for Sandwich. Our communications and cultural minister Ed VAisey should be coming to Thanet around the launch of the Turner Contemporary but it will give us an opportunity to bend his ear about TV reception again. I also intend to take him to see his aunt’s old home in Ramsgate. I am also inviting one of our health ministers to come to discuss with our health professionals the forthcoming changes that will deliver greater local control over health provision.
But this year has already been positive. We have been secured more funds for cancer diagnosis – crucial to us combating the ravages of this disease. £750 million is going into early diagnosis and new cancer treatments that will aim to save an additional 5,000 lives by 2014. And we have also been credited for having some of the best stroke care into eh country with our health care staff providing some of the best services for patients.
It will be a bumpy year but with some good news on health care and ensuring that Thanet and Sandwich are seen as a priority for Ministers we hope to ensure that New Year’s resolutions result in real benefits for Thanet and East Kent.
I want to hold many more large meetings with special interest groups – with voluntary groups on the Localism Bill; meetings to discuss our changes in benefits with organisations that work with the disadvantaged; discussions with green campaigners about a new vision for our economy and also with our small business sector to ensure that they get the support that they need.
We need to ensure that Ministers come and see how unique Thanet and Sandwich are – both in a positive and challenging light. I am very pleased that Richard Benyon MP the fishing minister is planning to come down in the next few months to talk about the future of fishing and the flood defences for Sandwich. Our communications and cultural minister Ed VAisey should be coming to Thanet around the launch of the Turner Contemporary but it will give us an opportunity to bend his ear about TV reception again. I also intend to take him to see his aunt’s old home in Ramsgate. I am also inviting one of our health ministers to come to discuss with our health professionals the forthcoming changes that will deliver greater local control over health provision.
But this year has already been positive. We have been secured more funds for cancer diagnosis – crucial to us combating the ravages of this disease. £750 million is going into early diagnosis and new cancer treatments that will aim to save an additional 5,000 lives by 2014. And we have also been credited for having some of the best stroke care into eh country with our health care staff providing some of the best services for patients.
It will be a bumpy year but with some good news on health care and ensuring that Thanet and Sandwich are seen as a priority for Ministers we hope to ensure that New Year’s resolutions result in real benefits for Thanet and East Kent.
Aphrodisiac Menu at The Ambrette
Aphrodisiac Menu at The AmbretteAhead of Valentine’s Day, Margate’s Michelin-listed Indian fine dining venue, The Ambrette, is to serve a special sampler menu using ingredients reputed to have strong aphrodisiac qualities.The £40 menu will be served on Sunday evening of 13th February in a relaxed romantic atmosphere with tranquil live piano music. With 14th February usually being restaurants’ busiest night of the year, front of house staff and chefs can often struggle to maintain the right ambience.The lightly spiced dishes at The Ambrette promises a very different dining experience where guests taste the real herbs, rather than have their flavours overwhelmed by strong spices.A keen student of Indian cookery, Biswal has learned how aphrodisiacs are intrinsic in the social fabric of a country that portrays itself to be highly conservative. The tradition of chewing a betel leaf before bed time or serving a glass of milk laced with saffron before the wedding night, are typical examples of how Indians harness the properties of “love potions”.Dev believes that along with many other things in Indian culture, aphrodisiac ingredients enjoy a sort of immortality in time.“The skills and knowledge are never lost, they flow incessantly from generation to generations, said Dev, adding, “Traditional chefs are these strange groups of mystic men who secretly guard their knowledge.”The night’s menu has been created to maximise use of ingredients known for their romance-inducing properties. Celery contains the male hormone testosterone, which also has a powerful effect on women’s libido. Carrots, fennel and onions also affect sex drive. Aswagandha, “The King” of India spices is a “ herbal miracle” that works on reproductive and nervous systems as a sexual and energy tonic with a rejuvenating effect. Basil stimulates the sex drive, boosts fertility and produces a general sense of well-being.The south Indian seafood extract “Rasam” is made with fresh local scallops, tiger prawns and mussels flavoured with asafoetida. Shellfish have traces of zinc, which stimulates sex drive.In laboratory studies Asafoetida, has been compared favourably to sildenafil, known by the brand name Viagra.Ginger is mentioned in part seven (under occult practices) of the Kama Sutra. History attests to coriander’s mystical aphrodisiac potency. The Chinese used the herb in love potions.The erotic, fleshy fruit of the fig is said to act as a powerful sexual stimulant. For the ancient Greeks the fig was one of the sacred foods associated with fertility and love. In some Southern European countries wedding guests throw figs (instead of rice) at the newly weds, as a sign of fertility.Among the Arabs nutmeg has been used to treat digestive problems and also been valued as an aphrodisiac; The Hindus embraced the spice for its sensual properties as a stimulant in raising body heat and sweetening breath.Coconut and tamarind seeds used are said to Improves sexual potency and fertility.Betel is prescribed by ancient Ayurvedic physicians because of its deodorant, aphrodisiac and invigorating properties. Betel leaf came to form a part of the ritual with which a wife welcomed her husband.Cardamom contains at least two androgenic compounds. It shows up as the best source of the compound cineole – a stimulant on the central nervous system stimulant.Part of saffron’s magical property is the enhancement of “lust”. Saffron is capable of affecting the neurotransmitters. Its ingestion is found to be a soothing relaxant capable of lowering blood pressure and stimulating the respiration. Its properties also appear to stimulate the libido and the erogenous zones.As a child Dev spent a lot of time in Orissa, a magical land with parts lost in time. The temples are covered in highly erotic and beautiful carvings of men and women – sometimes in groups – from the Kama Sutra, the ancient Indian text on human sexual behaviour. He had never seen such an energetic celebration of the sexual energy. These temples were built in the pre Islamic periods when people enjoyed sexual freedom in society. These stone sculptures used to baffle Dev’s adolescent mind, asking, “If sex is sinful, then how come the abode of the Gods are covered with sexual impressions”
SAFETY ADVICE COMES TO BIRCHINGTON
Birchington residents can learn more about fire safety and crime prevention advice, when the latest Operation Cleansweep visits the village.
The Kent Fire and Rescue Service drop-in vehicle will be parked outside the Co-op at 56 Station Road on Wednesday 26 January from 12.30 pm until 4.00 pm.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service officers will be joined by a Crime Reduction Officer from Kent Police, who will be giving out crime prevention advice.
Operation Cleansweep will be visiting Birchington and Westgate over their next two-day operation to do enforcement checks, clear communal areas and offer advice and support to local people.
If you would like any issues that you feel need tackling in the upcoming Birchington Cleansweep or have ideas for future operations, please call 01843 577737.
The Kent Fire and Rescue Service drop-in vehicle will be parked outside the Co-op at 56 Station Road on Wednesday 26 January from 12.30 pm until 4.00 pm.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service officers will be joined by a Crime Reduction Officer from Kent Police, who will be giving out crime prevention advice.
Operation Cleansweep will be visiting Birchington and Westgate over their next two-day operation to do enforcement checks, clear communal areas and offer advice and support to local people.
If you would like any issues that you feel need tackling in the upcoming Birchington Cleansweep or have ideas for future operations, please call 01843 577737.
ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION IMPROVEMENTS MADE
Repairs to lighting and town centre improvements in Margate and Ramsgate and new seating in Broadstairs are some of the latest successes of the council’s Environmental Action Programme.
The EAP team works to improve the appearance of Thanet’s busiest areas, from town centres to main roads into the district and busy seafront locations.
The planters and basket trees that used to be in Margate High Street have been removed to help open it up, with new hanging basket trees installed. Elsewhere in the town, a team from the EAP and Community Payback cleared away seven tons of rubbish from land at the side of the Nayland Rock. Community Payback also painted the back wall and the side wall in masonry paint, with the EAP team securing sleepers along the front and temporary fencing for the site.
In Ramsgate, refurbishment work has been carried out in Charlotte Court and waste bins in the town’s High Street have been replaced. Similar work to put in new style rubbish bins in Margate will take place before the opening of Turner Contemporary.
New seating has been installed in Broadstairs High Street, with work now underway in Ramsgate High Street. Over the next few months, work will be carried out to replace broken fencing along the Promenade in Broadstairs.
Repairs have been carried out to the Dolphin lights in Ramsgate and the Sturgeon lights in Margate. Lighting in the arches along Royal Parade has also been repaired, with work also carried out to remove vegetation.
Work is also due to start shortly on an improved lighting scheme for Margate Old Town, which will see floodlights being installed. This is expected to be completed by spring 2011.
Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “The team has been doing a great deal of work across Thanet over the last few months and making a real difference to the appearance of some of our busiest areas. They’ll be working hard over the next couple of months in readiness for the opening of Turner Contemporary in Margate and the start of the main summer season in our busy resorts. Often, it’s the small things that can make the biggest difference, like lighting repairs, replacing broken fencing and putting in new seating. All these things help to ensure that everyone feels proud of the area they live.”
The EAP team works to improve the appearance of Thanet’s busiest areas, from town centres to main roads into the district and busy seafront locations.
The planters and basket trees that used to be in Margate High Street have been removed to help open it up, with new hanging basket trees installed. Elsewhere in the town, a team from the EAP and Community Payback cleared away seven tons of rubbish from land at the side of the Nayland Rock. Community Payback also painted the back wall and the side wall in masonry paint, with the EAP team securing sleepers along the front and temporary fencing for the site.
In Ramsgate, refurbishment work has been carried out in Charlotte Court and waste bins in the town’s High Street have been replaced. Similar work to put in new style rubbish bins in Margate will take place before the opening of Turner Contemporary.
New seating has been installed in Broadstairs High Street, with work now underway in Ramsgate High Street. Over the next few months, work will be carried out to replace broken fencing along the Promenade in Broadstairs.
Repairs have been carried out to the Dolphin lights in Ramsgate and the Sturgeon lights in Margate. Lighting in the arches along Royal Parade has also been repaired, with work also carried out to remove vegetation.
Work is also due to start shortly on an improved lighting scheme for Margate Old Town, which will see floodlights being installed. This is expected to be completed by spring 2011.
Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “The team has been doing a great deal of work across Thanet over the last few months and making a real difference to the appearance of some of our busiest areas. They’ll be working hard over the next couple of months in readiness for the opening of Turner Contemporary in Margate and the start of the main summer season in our busy resorts. Often, it’s the small things that can make the biggest difference, like lighting repairs, replacing broken fencing and putting in new seating. All these things help to ensure that everyone feels proud of the area they live.”
Sunday, 16 January 2011
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
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0915
LOWER WAYFARING AND WAYFARING, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1008
1 MARLBOROUGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9BU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1037
2 ROSE HILL, RAMSGATE, CT11 9HX
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1076
210 CANTERBURY ROAD, EAST, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9AQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1084
53 ROYAL ESPLANADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 0HH
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0003
16 WOODVILLE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6DU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0004
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0012
33 THE VALE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1RB
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0016
20 BELMONT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LA
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0008
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0010
BLEAK HOUSE, FORT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1EY
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1060
REAR OF 33, GROTTO ROAD, MARGATE
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1063
60 TIVOLI PARK AVENUE, MARGA TE, CT9 5TH
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1064
RAWSONS RETREAT, NORTH FORELAND AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT103QT
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1072
1 GEORGE PARK, MARGATE, CT9 5ED
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1078
59 GRANGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9LR
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1083
105 GRANGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 90B
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1095
77 ST PETERS ROAD, MARGATE, CT94AL
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0001
18 ALFRED ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9NJ
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1006
5 ALBION STREET, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LU
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1034
9 NORTHUMBERLAND AVENUE, MARGATE, CT93BP
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1045
NORTH GOODWIN HOUSE, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 3QY
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1047
36 NETHERCOURT FARM ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 0RT
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1082
68 WESTWOOD ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 2PB
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1086
11 HOMELEIGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6SF
current
07 Jan 2011
A/TH/10/1068
16-24 HIGH STREET, RAMSGATE, CT11 9AG
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0900
135 NORTHWOOD ROAD, BROADSTAIRS CT10 2LU
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1042
34 DUMPTON PARK DRIVE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1BY
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1073
2B WEST CLIFF ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9JW
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1089
26 KING STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1DA
current
07 Jan 2011
L/TH/10/0987
26 KING STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1DA
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/1049
33A WILLSONS ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9LY
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/1070
THE ELLINGTON AND HERESON SCHOOL, RAMS GATE ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1PJ
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/11/0002
ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE, COLLEGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 7AF
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0915
LOWER WAYFARING AND WAYFARING, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1008
1 MARLBOROUGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9BU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1037
2 ROSE HILL, RAMSGATE, CT11 9HX
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1076
210 CANTERBURY ROAD, EAST, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9AQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1084
53 ROYAL ESPLANADE, RAMSGATE, CT11 0HH
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0003
16 WOODVILLE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6DU
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0004
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0012
33 THE VALE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1RB
current
14 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0016
20 BELMONT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LA
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0008
12A ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ
current
14 Jan 2011
L/TH/11/0010
BLEAK HOUSE, FORT ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1EY
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1060
REAR OF 33, GROTTO ROAD, MARGATE
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1063
60 TIVOLI PARK AVENUE, MARGA TE, CT9 5TH
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1064
RAWSONS RETREAT, NORTH FORELAND AVENUE, BROADSTAIRS, CT103QT
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1072
1 GEORGE PARK, MARGATE, CT9 5ED
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1078
59 GRANGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9LR
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1083
105 GRANGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 90B
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1095
77 ST PETERS ROAD, MARGATE, CT94AL
current
11 Jan 2011
F/TH/11/0001
18 ALFRED ROAD, BIRCHINGTON, CT7 9NJ
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1006
5 ALBION STREET, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1LU
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1034
9 NORTHUMBERLAND AVENUE, MARGATE, CT93BP
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1045
NORTH GOODWIN HOUSE, CLIFF PROMENADE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 3QY
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1047
36 NETHERCOURT FARM ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 0RT
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1082
68 WESTWOOD ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 2PB
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1086
11 HOMELEIGH ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT12 6SF
current
07 Jan 2011
A/TH/10/1068
16-24 HIGH STREET, RAMSGATE, CT11 9AG
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/0900
135 NORTHWOOD ROAD, BROADSTAIRS CT10 2LU
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1042
34 DUMPTON PARK DRIVE, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1BY
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1073
2B WEST CLIFF ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9JW
current
07 Jan 2011
F/TH/10/1089
26 KING STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1DA
current
07 Jan 2011
L/TH/10/0987
26 KING STREET, MARGATE, CT9 1DA
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/1049
33A WILLSONS ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 9LY
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/10/1070
THE ELLINGTON AND HERESON SCHOOL, RAMS GATE ROAD, BROADSTAIRS, CT10 1PJ
current
07 Jan 2011
OL/TH/11/0002
ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE, COLLEGE ROAD, RAMSGATE, CT11 7AF
current
New documents published by Thanet District Council
14/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 12 2011 7:00PM, Cabinet
13/01/2011 - Agenda supplement published - No. 1 : No. 1: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
13/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 13 2011 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
13/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 11 2011 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Committee
13/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 11 2011 10:00AM, Licensing Board
12/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 12 2011 7:00PM, Cabinet
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Committee
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 10:00AM, Licensing Board
10/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 10 2011 2:30PM, Asset Management Working Party
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 19 2011 7:00PM, Planning Committee
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 10:30AM, Airport Working Party
13/01/2011 - Agenda supplement published - No. 1 : No. 1: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
13/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 13 2011 6:30PM, Governance and Audit Committee
13/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 11 2011 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Committee
13/01/2011 - Minutes published: Meeting of Jan 11 2011 10:00AM, Licensing Board
12/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 12 2011 7:00PM, Cabinet
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 7:00PM, Overview and Scrutiny Panel
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 11:00AM, Licensing Sub Committee
11/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 11 2011 10:00AM, Licensing Board
10/01/2011 - Meeting held: Jan 10 2011 2:30PM, Asset Management Working Party
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 7:00PM, Council
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 19 2011 7:00PM, Planning Committee
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 18 2011 8:30AM, Local Development Cabinet Advisory Group
10/01/2011 - Agenda published: Meeting of Jan 20 2011 10:30AM, Airport Working Party
Laura Sandys MP Campaigns to End Fish Discards
Laura Sandys MP has joined Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s Big Fish Fight campaign to support an end to the wasteful practice of discards. Laura accompanied Thanet’s fishermen during the filming of the Channel 4 documentary to call for changes to the present fishing regulations.
Laura said: “At a time when the world’s resources are under increasing pressure, it is madness that half of all fish caught have to be thrown back into the sea. Heavy handed regulation from Europe needs to be addressed. We must ensure our fishing stocks are properly managed whilst also enabling our local fishermen to earn a living.”
“I have signed up to support Hugh’s exciting campaign and encourage others to do so. Although the real prize of Common Fisheries Policy reform will take time, I am here to continually fight our fishermen’s corner in Parliament.”
To sign up to the campaign please click to http://www.fishfight.net/
Laura said: “At a time when the world’s resources are under increasing pressure, it is madness that half of all fish caught have to be thrown back into the sea. Heavy handed regulation from Europe needs to be addressed. We must ensure our fishing stocks are properly managed whilst also enabling our local fishermen to earn a living.”
“I have signed up to support Hugh’s exciting campaign and encourage others to do so. Although the real prize of Common Fisheries Policy reform will take time, I am here to continually fight our fishermen’s corner in Parliament.”
To sign up to the campaign please click to http://www.fishfight.net/
Friday, 14 January 2011
THANET GOES WILD ABOUT THANET ON FILM
Large numbers of people had to be turned away from packed screenings of a film about Thanet in Ramsgate – and now extra showings have been arranged to cater for the “overwhelming” demand.So many people wanted to see “Thanet On Film II – the Ramsgate edition” at the Granville Theatre on Thursday 13th January that a special matinee showing was arranged for the same day at the cinema, which again was sold out.
Now there will be a screening of a Margate edition of the film at the Carlton Cinema in Westgate at 2pm on Sunday 23rd of January, followed by a special “Thanet on Film” weekend at the Granville on February11th and 12th.
“I was amazed at the huge demand to see the film,” Christine Tongue, one of the producers of the film, said. “It just shows again how deep an interest so many people have in the area.”
The film includes vintage footage of Thanet from the 1920s to the 1970s, shows the decline of the area in more recent times and explores the plans for regeneration in the future.
“I sat in the audience at the screening in Ramsgate and they laughed and sighed and generally reacted to every frame of the film!” Christine said. “It was just a revelation.”
The first version of the film broke box office records when it was first screened in Broadstairs in 2009. Now the film-makers want to produce more films about Thanet – but are appealing for people’s help to do it.
Christine said: “We want people to come to us with their stories, their experiences of living in Thanet. We will find the pictures to illustrate their stories – but we do need people to come forward to be in the film.”
Many people have already approached the film-makers, young and old – but they need still more. “What we hope to do is produce a “People’s History of Thanet” – something that will have national as well as local importance,” Christine said.
“Thanet On Film II: The Margate Edition” will be screened on Sunday January 23rd at 2pm at the Carlton Cinema in Westgate. The Ramsgate edition of the film will be shown again on Friday 11th February and Saturday 12th February, both days at 7pm.
Booking is advisable – for the Westgate screening ring the Carlton on 01843 834290. For the Ramsgate screening ring the Granville on 01843 591750. All screenings will be followed by a discussion with the film-makers.
15th December 2010 via Royal Mail Airmail to the address below:
Selective licensing is to be introduced in parts of Margate Central and Cliftonville West in a bid to help tackle anti-social behaviour and low housing demand in the area and improve management of privately rented housing there.
The plans were agreed last night (Wednesday 12 January) by Cabinet Members, who were presented with the results of the consultation that was carried out between September and November 2010. In total, 579 surveys were completed, with an additional 130 responses also sent in. The survey asked three key things, firstly whether anti-social behaviour in the area was an issue, which 80% of people agreed it was. 84% agreed that this was something the council should be tackling. When asked whether a selective licensing scheme would help tackle this issue, views were divided. 49% felt it would, while 44% disagreed.
Once the scheme is introduced, landlords will have to apply for a licence for every privately rented flat, house or room in order to continue to operate in the area. Landlords would then have to comply with various conditions on the licence, relating to the management of the property, fire safety and anti-social behaviour.
One of the changes made to the scheme, following the consultation, is the fees that will be payable for the licences. Following feedback from residents and landlords, there is now a discount for landlords, if they own more than one property in the same building. Discounts have also been introduced for early valid applications and for landlords who are accredited through the Kent Landlord Accreditation Scheme.
Another change is the introduction of a tenant referral scheme, which aims to help landlords find appropriate tenants and also help tenants find suitable housing. Following comments that there wasn’t enough evidence in the original proposals, this section has also been strengthened in the final version of the document.
Cllr. Chris Wells, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “We’ve listened carefully to people’s views on this, which were very mixed. It’s been an emotive subject and has certainly generated a great deal of discussion. As a result of the comments that have come back to the council, we’ve made a number of changes to the original proposals. In particular, the fee structure has changed, following feedback from landlords, so getting people’s views on this has been a really valuable process.”
It is expected that landlords will be able to make applications to the council for the new scheme from February 2011. Discounted fees would be available for early valid applications until the end of June 2011, when full enforcement of the scheme is expected to begin.
The plans were agreed last night (Wednesday 12 January) by Cabinet Members, who were presented with the results of the consultation that was carried out between September and November 2010. In total, 579 surveys were completed, with an additional 130 responses also sent in. The survey asked three key things, firstly whether anti-social behaviour in the area was an issue, which 80% of people agreed it was. 84% agreed that this was something the council should be tackling. When asked whether a selective licensing scheme would help tackle this issue, views were divided. 49% felt it would, while 44% disagreed.
Once the scheme is introduced, landlords will have to apply for a licence for every privately rented flat, house or room in order to continue to operate in the area. Landlords would then have to comply with various conditions on the licence, relating to the management of the property, fire safety and anti-social behaviour.
One of the changes made to the scheme, following the consultation, is the fees that will be payable for the licences. Following feedback from residents and landlords, there is now a discount for landlords, if they own more than one property in the same building. Discounts have also been introduced for early valid applications and for landlords who are accredited through the Kent Landlord Accreditation Scheme.
Another change is the introduction of a tenant referral scheme, which aims to help landlords find appropriate tenants and also help tenants find suitable housing. Following comments that there wasn’t enough evidence in the original proposals, this section has also been strengthened in the final version of the document.
Cllr. Chris Wells, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “We’ve listened carefully to people’s views on this, which were very mixed. It’s been an emotive subject and has certainly generated a great deal of discussion. As a result of the comments that have come back to the council, we’ve made a number of changes to the original proposals. In particular, the fee structure has changed, following feedback from landlords, so getting people’s views on this has been a really valuable process.”
It is expected that landlords will be able to make applications to the council for the new scheme from February 2011. Discounted fees would be available for early valid applications until the end of June 2011, when full enforcement of the scheme is expected to begin.
Thursday, 13 January 2011
TORY LEADERS ATTEMPT TO GAG COUNCILLOR
The Extraordinary Cabinet meeting held at Thanet District Council on the 12th January saw members yet again locked in battle over the Montefiore Avenue tennis courts. In a repeat performance of the Council meeting in December the Conservative ruling group tried to stifle the contribution of a leading Labour member.
Councillor Johnston had booked to speak under the Council's 24.1 rules on several items including the removal of certain assets from the Disposal list. She particularly suggested that the Montefiore Avenue land was 'only now on the 12th January 2011' actually being removed from sale.
This was contrary to what Councillor Bayford had announced at Full Council several weeks ago. At that meeting he made an announcement that the Montefiore land had ALREADY been 'removed' by Cabinet and there was no need for the ward Councillors Fenner and Poole and residents to continue to campaign.
In a highly charged meeting several members of the Conservative group had challenged both the ward councillors integrity and the concerns of many in the Labour Group who were worried that the sale of the land had only been held in abeyance pending the outcome of a Village Green application.
At Wednesday evenings Cabinet meeting, when Councilllor Johnston pointed out that this information had been misleading at Full Council Council, Cllr Bayford threatened to have her removed from the Chamber and told her she would not be allowed to continue to participate. Councillor Johnston remained in the Chamber and ensured her points were heard - that the public had been misled.
Councillor Clive Hart, Labour Leader at TDC said after the meeting 'Yet again I have seen my members subjected to insults and attempts made to prevent them doing their work on behalf of the people of Thanet. I had hoped when Councillor Bayford became Leader of the Conservative Group we would see a change of style and tactics from that of his predecessor.
Unfortunately time after time he proves he is just the same. Aided and abetted by Councillors Wise and Wells he allows insults to be thrown at my members'.
Councillor Johnston said after the meeting 'It is very hard to work with people who twist the truth to their own ends. Councillor Bayford has been caught out on this occasion in a very public manner and he should apologise to Councillors Fenner and Poole and the Montefiore Action Group who had to endure his appalling behaviour at Council in December'.
________________________
Notes on other recent events:
At the last full meeting of the council, in late December 2010, residents were given their most revealing glimpse of the Conservative leadership at TDC to date. Whilst the former Tory leader cruelly turned on concerned residents in the public gallery who had managed to attend despite appalling weather conditions, blatantly calling them 'cowards', the current Tory leader was busy trying to gloss over the huge financial costs and enormous amount of wasted council time and energy required to legally fight the passionately held views of our own decent rate paying residents. Under Cllr Bayfords leadership TDC had continued to spend many tens of thousands of pounds on a futile legal fight against Ramsgate and Broadstairs residents concerning much-loved open green space and the Montefiore tennis courts.
At the last Joint Transportation Board meeting of 2010 Cllr Bayford's dismissive views on consulting the Thanet public slipped out and his verbal 'gaffe' was reported in at least one national newspaper.
Last year local residents views in Margate and Cliftonville were totally ignored, and even 'written-out' of reports, during the Dalby Square fiasco, when Cllr Bayford's own cabinet gleefully 'gifted' cherished green public open space to developers.
The Conservative deputy leader Cllr Wise has been extremely insulting to Labour members at several Cabinet meetings and when eventually forced to do so, he had to publicly apologise to Labour Leader Cllr Clive Hart for posting anonymous comments about him on the internet.
Tory Cabinet member Cllr Wells often makes appallingly derogatory comments about opposition members of the council, quite openly and nastily attacking anyone who doesn't agree with his particular views, and it's not just councillors he insults. In referring to our own local residents during one public meeting at TDC he even used the term 'there are too many inbreds in Thanet'.
Published by Thanet Labour Group Press Office, 44 Northdown Road, Margate, Kent. CT9 2RW.
Councillor Johnston had booked to speak under the Council's 24.1 rules on several items including the removal of certain assets from the Disposal list. She particularly suggested that the Montefiore Avenue land was 'only now on the 12th January 2011' actually being removed from sale.
This was contrary to what Councillor Bayford had announced at Full Council several weeks ago. At that meeting he made an announcement that the Montefiore land had ALREADY been 'removed' by Cabinet and there was no need for the ward Councillors Fenner and Poole and residents to continue to campaign.
In a highly charged meeting several members of the Conservative group had challenged both the ward councillors integrity and the concerns of many in the Labour Group who were worried that the sale of the land had only been held in abeyance pending the outcome of a Village Green application.
At Wednesday evenings Cabinet meeting, when Councilllor Johnston pointed out that this information had been misleading at Full Council Council, Cllr Bayford threatened to have her removed from the Chamber and told her she would not be allowed to continue to participate. Councillor Johnston remained in the Chamber and ensured her points were heard - that the public had been misled.
Councillor Clive Hart, Labour Leader at TDC said after the meeting 'Yet again I have seen my members subjected to insults and attempts made to prevent them doing their work on behalf of the people of Thanet. I had hoped when Councillor Bayford became Leader of the Conservative Group we would see a change of style and tactics from that of his predecessor.
Unfortunately time after time he proves he is just the same. Aided and abetted by Councillors Wise and Wells he allows insults to be thrown at my members'.
Councillor Johnston said after the meeting 'It is very hard to work with people who twist the truth to their own ends. Councillor Bayford has been caught out on this occasion in a very public manner and he should apologise to Councillors Fenner and Poole and the Montefiore Action Group who had to endure his appalling behaviour at Council in December'.
________________________
Notes on other recent events:
At the last full meeting of the council, in late December 2010, residents were given their most revealing glimpse of the Conservative leadership at TDC to date. Whilst the former Tory leader cruelly turned on concerned residents in the public gallery who had managed to attend despite appalling weather conditions, blatantly calling them 'cowards', the current Tory leader was busy trying to gloss over the huge financial costs and enormous amount of wasted council time and energy required to legally fight the passionately held views of our own decent rate paying residents. Under Cllr Bayfords leadership TDC had continued to spend many tens of thousands of pounds on a futile legal fight against Ramsgate and Broadstairs residents concerning much-loved open green space and the Montefiore tennis courts.
At the last Joint Transportation Board meeting of 2010 Cllr Bayford's dismissive views on consulting the Thanet public slipped out and his verbal 'gaffe' was reported in at least one national newspaper.
Last year local residents views in Margate and Cliftonville were totally ignored, and even 'written-out' of reports, during the Dalby Square fiasco, when Cllr Bayford's own cabinet gleefully 'gifted' cherished green public open space to developers.
The Conservative deputy leader Cllr Wise has been extremely insulting to Labour members at several Cabinet meetings and when eventually forced to do so, he had to publicly apologise to Labour Leader Cllr Clive Hart for posting anonymous comments about him on the internet.
Tory Cabinet member Cllr Wells often makes appallingly derogatory comments about opposition members of the council, quite openly and nastily attacking anyone who doesn't agree with his particular views, and it's not just councillors he insults. In referring to our own local residents during one public meeting at TDC he even used the term 'there are too many inbreds in Thanet'.
Published by Thanet Labour Group Press Office, 44 Northdown Road, Margate, Kent. CT9 2RW.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
SHADOW UPDATE 12/01/2011
Labour Shadow Team comments & questions for Wednesday evening's TDC Cabinet meeting.
INTRODUCTION - Labour Group Leader - Cllr. Clive Hart.
This was an extraordinary meeting of the cabinet and held on a Wednesday instead of the usual Thursday.
Tucked away amongst proposals for a new staff structure, asset disposals, the coach house and other matters was a report on Welfare Reform (simply for 'noting') that will have a devastating effect for many residents across our island.
Cllr. Clive Hart - Phone: 01843 298770
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AGENDA ITEM 3 - STAFF STRUCTURE
Cllr Clive Hart - Labour Leader of the Opposition.
I have serious concerns about this report on the proposed staff structure. It all appears incredibly rushed, even to the point that proposed changes to the consultation document have simply been attached and not included in a 'final' document.
I'd like to call for a full briefing for Labour members on the implications before this matter comes to the extraordinary council meeting on the 20th January.
Cllr. Clive Hart - Phone: 01843 298770
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AGENDA ITEM 4 - EAST KENT LOCAL INVESTMENT PLAN.
Cllr Iris Johnston - Shadow Member for Community Services.
I welcome the report and congratulate Lauren Hemsley The Housing Strategy Officer on the amount of work and detail.
The Report has been considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday evening and I would advise Cabinet that the Recommendations under 5.0 should have an addition.
The Scrutiny Committee had agreed with my proposal that under 5.2:
'Delegated authority is given to the Interim Community Services Director and Housing Strategy officer to negotiate and agree the delivery plans for the HCA's Investment Programme 2011-2014 in consultation with relevant portfolio holder'
This addition had the unanimous support at Scrutiny.
From Annex one of the report:
Under Summary list of Priorities page 5 (4)
I ask Cabinet to reject The Minister, Mr Pickles recommendation for Councils to only START dealing with empty properties after a two year vacancy. She suggested neighbours often only report to Councils their concerns when a property is vandalised or obviously neglected. Sometimes it may be when squatters are noticed.The long legal processes are well known in Thanet and we need to stick to the previous Government's rules on dealing with Empty Properties. Over the last ten years this has proved invaluable in bringing properties back in to use.
Item 21: Westbrook House which could be off the Canterbury Road Margate is not clarified until page 36 as being at Cheriton Road Sports Ground. It should be made clear when first mentioned.
Under item 26 Newington and The Flowering Bowl The Centre Ramsgate. (5.8 million required).
Does this mean the Centre was ONLY number 26 in order of pririority?
This was not good enough when there around 6,000 people on TDC's housing waiting list.
Why has the Coalition Government rejected the first funding application which has led to considerable delays.
Officers have advised me that they expect a re submitted application to be successful but in the meantime the site is causing a great deal of extra work for the ward councillors and others who have worked so hard to bring the new development to fruition.
Social Housing tenants seem to be quite a target for the coalition.
The planned changes to repayment for those who fall in to arrears are likely not to be given the same support as before. Conversely those new tenants who lift themselves out of benefits are expected after two and half years to look in the private sector and move on. This will have serious repercussions in Thanet where many jobs are short term'
Page 48 of the report refers to the Local Strategic Partnership.
I have been promised the up to date minutes of the LSP as Shadow member. Mrs Homer was going to ensure they were made available.
It is a long held concern that the LSP is not fully representative of ordinary members of the public and still did not meet its original remit.
Cllr. Iris Johnston: 01843 299207
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AGENDA ITEM 5 - ASSET DISPOSALS.
Cllr Iris Johnston - Shadow Member for Community Services.
I welcome the recommendation to remove the land at Montefiore Avenue but question why Councilor Bayford announced at Full Council before Christmas that it had already been removed at a previous cabinet meeting.
The attempts to prevent the ward Councillors Poole and Fenner as well as members of the public from addressing the meeting was quite disgraceful. Those of us who had attended cabinet in August 2009 and subsequent Asset management meetings know the site had not been removed but held in abeyance subject to the Village Green Application'
The fact that it now has to be on the agenda on 12th January 2011 for ACTUAL removal was proof that Councillor Bayford and the Chairman of Council had got there facts very wrong.
All of those Conservative members who supported this misinformation should now publicly apologise for the appalling comments made at Full Council.
Cllr. Iris Johnston: 01843 299207
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AGENDA ITEM 6 - SELECTIVE LICENSING PROPOSAL.
Cllr Iris Johnston - Shadow Member for Community Services.
I welcome this next stage which hopefully will ensure we have an improved private rental sector in some parts of Margate and Cliftonville. I had heard from landlords both for and against the proposals. From a ward point of view tenants who constantly come to her and no doubt other Councillors about very poor accomodation are pleased that something can be done.
I thank officers who took on board my complaint that people with mental health problems were offended by the wording which linked them with anti social behaviour and arson. Mrs Wenham had spoken to a resident who was especially upset.
The meeting planned with SLA on the 25th January has not been widely publicised amongst members. Has Leader and Councillor Wells now responded to Mr Littlewood and will they be in attendance'?
Cllr. Iris Johnston: 01843 299207
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AGENDA ITEM 7 - OSP COACH HOUSE FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT.
Cllr Iris Johnston - Shadow Member for Community Services.
This item had been discussed both on the 10th and 11th January Overview & Scrutiny meetings. It was clear from officers that little work had been done when they visited on the 5th January. The Scrutiny Committee suggested that Cabinet decide this evening NOT to extend the time scale for repairs beyond the first of April. This had the support of all Scrutiny members and should please be part of Cabinet's recommendations this evening.
The original petition to TDC was against the sale of 'Northdown House and its Environs'.
This had been accepted by Cabinet and ALL had been removed from the Asset Disposal register. This ensures the Coach House is not to be sold.
The approach from the member of the public was a separate matter. A Mrs Carole Russell has contacted myself and I understand many other Councillors as she was very frustrated with the delays in getting replies and information from TDC. She had also gone through the Freedom of Information process as she wanted to read the lease details.
I advised her to contact Mr Patterson and also the then Leader Councillor Ezekiel. It was only after I suggested she contact Councillor Harrison as Chairman of Scrutiny that the item came to be properly tackled.
This chronological background is important as the Coach house has been subject to previous examination on my own request when I was cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure.
Cllr. Iris Johnston: 01843 299207
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AGENDA ITEM 8 - WELFARE REFORM WHITE PAPER & ASSOCIATED IMPACT ON THANET.
Cllr John Watkins - Shadow Member for Customer Services.
This very comprehensive Welfare reform white paper report, is on the agenda this evening for noting by the cabinet.
I understand that these proposals are central government policy and all that can be done now, is to hope that some notice will be taken of the major concerns that have been expressed in the response letter sent in by TDC’s Interim Revenues and Benefits manager. And I hope that the letter will add weight to the many similar letters that I am sure will have been sent in by other local councils around the country.
However this report reads like the preview for a disaster story which is about to unfold in our District over the next four years.
And which will see millions of pounds taken out of our local economy.
We may have the highest claimant count in the south east at the moment, but when the proposals contained in this white paper are implemented our current levels of economic deprivation will turn into complete penury for many of our residents.
It has been reported that the National Housing Federation state that there could be around six hundred people made homeless in Thanet alone.
The existing government proposals to reform housing benefit are already bad enough. If we look at the implications of the reductions in housing benefit as listed under paragraphs 2.6 and 3.1, of the report ,where some claimants could lose around £30 or more from their weekly income. It It is easy to see, how many evictions could take place locally and all residents receiving Council tax benefit could also be hit by a cut of 10%.
As for other issues raised within the white paper, Paragraph 5.4 of the report informs us that Discretionary Housing Payments will be available to alleviate hardship introduced by the new reforms.
But Thanet will not receive major increases in the funding provided for this hardship. It also states that our fund could be topped up by some of the money from our unspent Housing Benefit Administration Grant fund of two hundred thousand pounds.
Can I ask why all of the £200 thousand can not be allocated to Thanet’s emergency fund to alleviate the hardship that will undoubtedly be felt in our most deprived wards.
A major irony is that some of our own TDC Revenues and Benefits staff are among the estimated 60 people who could be made redundant under these new proposals and consequently, they could also find themselves claiming the new Universal Benefit.
Heaven help them if they find themselves out of work for more than 12 months, because they will then face the 10% cut in their benefits coupled with the 4 to 5 % rise in inflation, helped by the latest increase in VAT.
The prime minister has said that “WE ARE ALL IN IT TOGETHER”
Here, in one of the most financially deprived districts in the south of England, we are due to be right up to our necks in it.
And we are due to be much deeper in the mire than many others. Particularly those people in the City of London, who are proposing to award themselves 7 and a half billion pounds in pay and bonuses this year. Apparently luxury yachts are among the best sellers at this year’s London Boat show.
Meanwhile the coalition agreement to “Take robust action to tackle the unacceptable bonuses in the financial services sector” Has now been dropped by the government. This Coalition government, which contains 22 millionaire ministers. The same ministers who are bringing forward these proposals in the Welfare Reform white paper.
But then - As we have been reminded recently - “LIFE IS NOT FAIR”.
Cllr. John Watkins: 01843 228165
ALSO SPEAKING:
Cllr Clive Hart - Labour Leader of the Opposition.
I'd just like to add - that this is by far THE MOST DISTURBING AND FRIGHTENING TDC report I've seen or read in my eight years at TDC.
The TDC Interim Revenue & Benefits Officer has outlined many of the shortcomings in the coalition proposals at Annex 1.
Even more worryingly, evictions could well escalate to unprecedented levels and the knock-on effects of the proposed benefit cuts would affect not just those claiming, but many local businesses and services across the island.
Wealthy government leaders say 'we're all in this together' - I wonder? This is certainly no time to be poor, to fall on hard times, to come out of work, or to have an accident or get sick. The elderly, the weak and the vulnerable are all targeted by these proposals.
The implications for a District like Thanet are simply appalling.
Cllr. Clive Hart - Phone: 01843 298770
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Published by Thanet Labour Group Press Office - 44 Northdown Road, Margate, CT9 2RW.
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