Update to Higham Parish Council Assembly from Cllr. Bryan Sweetland, Higham Ward, Gravesham Borough Council.

I have asked Linda to give my apologies to the assembly, if I am not present by this time. I am currently either on a plane or driving back to Higham from Gatwick Airport.

My job as a Borough Councillor is made so much easier by the village having an excellent Parish Council and I would like to thank them for all the work they do representing the people of Higham on many local issues and opportunities.

It’s pleasing to see that the youth of the borough now have a senior GBC councillor to represent them. Cllr Laura Hryniewicz has joined the cabinet with responsibility for the Youth portfolio. Its early days but I’m sure we will hear more about the work Laura is doing over the next few months. Higham Parish Council has always focussed on the youth in the village and leads the way locally with a highly successful youth club.

Gravesham’s Youth organisations were also one of the subjects discussed at the second ‘Rural Forum’ which was held at Meopham School a few weeks ago. The other subject on the agenda was ‘Public Transport’ and there was an interesting discussion on the local bus services, particularly those servicing Higham. There are still many unanswered questions and the debate with KCC and Arriva continues. However, the Rural Forums seem to be a good way to air local issues and I would encourage people to attend.

Over the next week we will see two parades in the Town Centre. The Vasakhi is this Saturday and the St. Georges Day parade is on the 23rd April.
Two quality cultural events not to be missed.

In every news programme lately it seems impossible to get away from the effects of the economic downturn, commonly referred to as the ‘credit crunch’. Unfortunately the effects are starting to be felt locally and I wanted to let you know what the borough council is doing to help local families and businesses, during what is for some people, very difficult times.
Gravesham Borough Council is demonstrating a lead in responding to the difficulties arising from the economic downturn, specifically in helping Gravesham residents and businesses. The overarching message is to promote the council’s services, to encourage early contact with the council if anyone is at risk of debt to the council or at risk of losing their home.

The subject of temporary traveller sites was raised recently. After discussions with the relevant GBC officers it seems that the best way to proceed if local people want to object to the planning permission being made permanent is to ensure that the Parish Council has an input into the LDF process. Local consultations are being held in August and September.

Dealing with Kent Highways is always interesting if not frustrating at times. Both Pat and I have been trying to have the grass verge opposite Jupp Court repaired. Short anti parking bollards could also be installed but so far all we have received are reasons why this cannot be done. This is strange as the KCC website explains that this is the sort of work that Kent Highways are supposed to carry out!

If I can help with any matters concerning Gravesham Borough Council, please call me on 07976 309171 or email at bryan.sweetland@gravesham.gov.uk

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