Dear Members
1. MVDC Finance
I do hope that, in spite of all the complaints and moans that you will have heard, that you will have taken pleasure in seeing the lovely countryside where we live covered in sunshine and bright flowers! It is also a relief to know that apparently Mole Valley, unlike some other local authorities, is not drowning in debt; a position which would hamper their progress significantly in the difficult years to come. Our new Leader of the Council, Bridget Kendrick, said, “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and confident in our ability to meet the challenges ahead with resilience and focus.”
2. CIL Money
One area where the efforts of local people is particularly felt is where it is supported by “CIL” (Community Infrastructure Levy) money. This is money collected from developers by the Council and then allocated to local bodies to ensure that locally needed facilities and/or buildings are provided. For instance, I am informed that the Leatherhead Poors Allotment Society will be making a grant request in respect of their plans to improve facilities at their site, particularly in respect of its use by children the aged and the disabled.
3. The Banking Hub
And now to the much debated “Banking Hub.” I was among the many astonished people who learned that “Leatherhead did not meet the criteria for a Banking Hub.” Leatherhead, which had had at least seven major bank branches about a year or so ago, is apparently now too small and (?) insignificant to warrant a Banking Hub such as Dorking had been allocated? Councillor Paula Keay feels the same and will push for a better result for Leatherhead.
4. EV Charging Stations
EV Charging Stations are becoming quite the “must have” for some areas! However, when these are planned there are many aspects to be considered, apart from the convenience for the motorist. You need a wide enough road to accommodate both the parked vehicles being charged and two lanes for normal traffic. The pavement must not be reduced or push chairs and wheelchairs will be hampered on their route. Charging takes time. Will the drivers have anywhere to go while they are waiting? Car parks and commercial or industrial areas are much more suitable for this kind of use. The reason this has come to my notice is that some neighbours recently received a notification of a proposed charging point installation without any prior consultation and in a location that was outstandingly unsuitable!!
5. Summer Holiday Activities
Finally, I am going to finish on a joyful note, though some of us, regrettably, are too old to really appreciate it! Mole Valley District Council is delighted to be working in partnership with local sport and leisure organisations to offer a wide range of free, fun and inclusive indoor and outdoor activities for children this summer. From skateboarding, to art, bushcraft, dance and many more, these activities from local, trusted and experienced providers are all designed to keep children active and entertained over the holiday period.
Taking place between 23 July and the end of August, these free activities for 0-16s have been selected to support a range of differing needs and abilities, to provide great opportunities to try something new and to make new friends. There are sites all over MV.
Choose one or more activities your child would like to take part in and register their place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. As these activities have limited slots available per activity, please only book into the programme if you are confident your child can attend, so as not to deprive another of the opportunity. (visit: https://molevalley.gov.uk/holidayactivities)
6. Next Open Meeting
I have been trying to fix a date for our next open meeting, but, anticipating that it will definitely be on either Monday 28th July or on Monday 4th August, I am going to keep those two dates circled on my calendar. Our speaker is going to be Mr. Michael Herrity whom some of you may know as the Leader of LPAS, or Leatherhead Poors Allotment Society. He has great plans for this (which he hopes will be furthered by a CIL grant) so that no one will feel left out of the group for any reason, and also so that the aims and activities of the Society can be greatly increased.
My best wishes for a happy holiday to everyone.
Caroline (Brown)
Chair of the Leatherhead Residents Association