Communication
The Parish Council is very keen to engage with residents and we regularly distribute information via our noticeboards, Facebook page and e-mail circle. If you would like to join the e-mail circle please contact the parish clerk [email protected]
If you have any comments or concerns please get in touch, we will be happy to talk to you 01622 744969 [email protected]
We no longer produce paper newsletters but our last few editions are below, for your information.
Report from Maidstone Borough Councillor, Anne Dawes
Borough Update – September 2025
1. Strategic CIL Funding – Bidding Now Open
Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is inviting bids for the second round of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding. The bidding window opens on 1st September 2025 and will remain open for 13 weeks, closing on 30th November 2025.
• A total of £5.4 million in collected levy receipts is available for strategic infrastructure projects.
• Infrastructure providers with eligible projects are encouraged to submit their applications.
A training session for Councillors, covering the CIL collection process, allocation and spend, reporting, and Section 106 will be held at Town Hall on Tuesday 30th September
2. Housing Supply Shortfall
MBC currently has a 4.5-year housing land supply, falling short of the required 5 year supply by approximately 500 homes. The Council is reviewing major development sites through pre-application processes to assess interest and strategic direction.
Importantly, MBC remains committed to infrastructure delivery and high-quality design, rather than simply filling in gaps.
3. Chestnut coppice on Heath road
Contrary to recent media reports, the chestnut coppice on Heath Road will not be supported by MBC for housing development or use as a Gypsy and Traveller site. The area is protected by a Tree Preservation Order and is subject to the conditions of a Forestry Commission felling licence. Although coppicing is permitted, tree stool (stump) removal is prohibited. We hope this clarification eases concerns circulating in the village and local press
4. Support for Fuel Poverty – We Are Group
The We Are Group is offering free, high-quality advice services to individuals and families affected by fuel poverty. Commissioned by UK Power Networks, their support includes:
• Income maximisation and bill reduction
• Energy use guidance and time-of-use tariffs
• Smart meter support
• Scam awareness and protection
• Debt advice
• Water efficiency tips
• Free winter warm packs
All support is tailored through one-to-one appointments. Visit www.wearegroup.com for more information and to access their service leaflet.
5. Fusion Healthy Living Centre – Council Support
MBC recognises the vital role of the Fusion Healthy Living Centre in Park Wood, which provides essential services to residents. Fusion is currently the only Healthy Living Centre in Kent not receiving local council support.
To address this, MBC will now cover Fusion’s annual rental costs of £12,000, helping to reduce health inequalities.
6. Reporting Racism and Hate Crimes
We urge residents to report any suspected racist activity or hate crime. Following the appalling incident at Oxford Central Mosque on 19th August, where pork and an Israeli flag were left outside, MBC continues to liaise with Thames Valley Police.
If you have information, call 101 quoting reference 43250423138. You can also report anonymously via Tell MAMA, who welcomed the recent sentencing of a neo-Nazi teen to 10 years in prison for plotting a terror attack on a Scottish mosque.
7. Community Statement on Flag Displays
Recent flag displays have sparked varied reactions. In a democratic society, differing views are expected—but respectful dialogue is essential.
National safeguarding guidance warns that some public displays may be used to provoke or signal affiliation with divisive ideologies. While this does not reflect the majority, public bodies are asked to monitor such risks.
We encourage residents to:
• Seek reliable information
• Avoid misinformation on social media
• Report any flags, graffiti, or messaging with racial, hateful, or extremist content to MBC or Kent Police.
For more information please refer to national guidance from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
8. Tackling Modern Slavery – Councillor Guidance
Councillors and community networks play a key role in tackling modern slavery. The Local Government Association (LGA) has published a guide for elected members
In Maidstone Borough:
• Since 2022, the Community Protection Team (CPT) has led the Anti-Slavery Partnership (ASP) with Kent Police and ‘Stop the Traffik’.
• Investigations have led to safeguarding victims from exploitation, including in local brothels.
• The MDS Champions Group helps council teams identify signs of modern slavery in their day-to-day work.
9. Stop Loan Sharks Webinar
On Tuesday 17th July, I attended a Stop Loan Sharks webinar—eye-opening and valuable training
Loan sharks are more widespread than many realise, affecting people across all backgrounds and ages. If someone lends you money, is not a registered lender, and demands high interest, they are a loan shark.
Visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk for resources and support.
10. Breast Health Workshop – Maidstone Innovation Centre
Join us at the Maidstone Innovation Centre on Wednesday 8th October 2025 for a special event focused on breast health awareness and empowerment.
Over 55,000 breast cancer cases are diagnosed annually in the UK. 23% of these cases are preventable. The workshop in October aims to educate and support attendees.
Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Location: Innovation Centre, Gidds Pond Way, ME14 5FY
Free to attend – reserve your space today!
11. Community Proposal – Indoor Padel Tennis Centre
Michael Williams, Director of Forever Green Lawns on Monchelsea Farm Estate, Heath Road is exploring the opportunity to develop an indoor Padel tennis centre in the newly available premises next door.
This initiative aims to expand local business and give back to the community. A related motion was brought forward by Cllr Stan Forecast on 17th July, encouraging MBC to explore suitable locations for Padel courts in the Borough. Discussions are ongoing.
Cllr Anne Dawes