News and information for residents and visitors of East Malling, Kent, 21st December 2024
Plans to scrap two-tier local government
A government white paper is now expected on Monday 16 December outlining plans for the biggest reorganisation of local government since the 1970s by scrapping the existing two-tier system of county councils and borough/district councils with single authorities, taking out a layer of local government. For East Malling and Larkfield this would presumably mean the scrapping of Kent County Council and Tonbrige and Malling Borough Council and coming under a single West Kent Council.
The process is expected to start with a requirement for the existing councils to submit specific proposals to bring about this change.
The government's plans are also understood to include increasing the spread of local Mayors, who would have power to overturn planning decisions made by the local authority.
Gladman proposal likely to go ahead
The proposal by Gladman to build 150 homes to the west of the village looks likely to go ahead despite strong local objections at the Area 2 Planning Committee on 4th December 2024. Because of a mistake by TMBC in not sufficiently publicising the process, the consultation period has been extended to 13 December.
This is the written report.
Winterfield Lane Closure Plans Cancelled
Maidstone BC opposes Bradbourne Scheme
Maidstone Borough Council planning committee has added its objections to the Bradbourne community village proposal, citing congestion on Hermitage Lane. Access points include two on Hermitage Lane, near Barming Station.
Cllr Stan Forecast said Maidstone needed “to send a clear message to both Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and to the developer”. Tonbridge and Malling BC would stand to benefit from the Section 106 monies and the council tax generated by the new homes, but the pressure on infrastructure would fall on Maidstone.
Council leader Stuart Jeffery (Green) proposed Maidstone reject the application, and his motion was unanimously agreed.
The application could still be approved by Tonbridge and Malling council, which, as it is currently without an up-to-date Local Plan, is hampered in its ability to resist planning applications, despite clear local opposition expressed at public meetings in East Malling and Ditton.
Campaign to save Oaken Wood
If you are interested in the efforts to save Oaken Wood from further quarrying, check out this facebook group: Save Oaken Wood
Rural grants
The West Kent Rural Grant Scheme is open for applications for capital grants between £2,000 and £24,999. Eligible organisations or businesses that are based in rural West Kent may apply. Match funding is required. The next panel meeting is due to take place on 8 January 2025
To find out more about the Scheme visit https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/info/20004/business/728/west_kent_rural_grants
Citizens Advice
Citizens' advice service runs East Malling Community Centre, every Tuesday between 10am and 12.30.
Advice on preventing burglaries
There is often an increase in burglaries at this time of year. Kent Police have this advice about protective measures to consider
Online mental health support
A new online service providing professional support is now available in Kent. No referral from a GP is needed and there are no waiting lists. To register for help and find out more, visit Qwell
Bogus traders
Following recent high winds and heavy rain, there are bogus builders knocking on doors telling you that tiles have fallen from your roof, or tree branches need cutting down. DONT BE TRICKED BY THESE DOORSTEP CALLERS. If you think you may have a problem, make sure you choose a company which have been checked under the Kent Trader Scheme. Trading Standards Checked (at https://tschecked.kent.gov.uk)East Malling Family Hub
Come and visit us at East Malling Family Hub Lots of fun activities for you and your children to play, learn, and have fun together.
Communigrowers!
Come and see us Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm
Check first: volunteer@communigrow.org.uk or 08706 708386
Park Farm, East Malling ME20 6PE
