| Item | Description | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| PART 1 - PUBLIC | ||
| TF 13/008 |
Minutes |
RESOLVED: That the Minutes of the meeting held on 18 February 2013 be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman. |
| TF 13/009 |
Update on any action identified in the last Minutes |
No actions were identified |
| TF 13/010 |
Tonbridge Arts Festival |
The Tonbridge Arts Festival Committee provided an update on progress towards this year's Festival and set out the programme of events arranged for the weekend of 5,6 and 7 July. It was reported that prices for events had been kept as low as possible, with many free of charge. Ticket sales were good and appeared on target for most events. The Committee were anticipating a successful weekend. One of the featured events was a world record attempt for the hand jive which would take place at noon on Sunday 7 July at Tonbridge Castle. Other events included the Killer Queen tribute band at Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge Castle proms with fireworks, Sing-along Grease at E M Forster Theatre, local schools drama performances, live music across the town and a discussion with best selling author Kate Mosse. |
| TF 13/011 |
The Role of Tonbridge Churches |
The Reverend Sheila Perkins set out the work and activities undertaken by Tonbridge Area Churches Together and the role of HOPE in Tonbridge and the surrounding villages. Members of all churches worked together to assist the local community by launching and promoting projects for anyone. These were not faith dependent and the work was undertaken by volunteers. Services offered by Tonbridge Area Churches Together and HOPE included activities and sessions for children and young people, courses offering family support and counselling, advice and support on debt, work matters and homelessness. Particular reference was made to 'Healing on the Streets' which took place in Tonbridge High Street between 10-12 on a Saturday morning. Further information was available at www.healingonthestreet.co.uk A new project under consideration was the establishment of a foodbank. A team effort was required to set this up and volunteers and/or ideas were welcomed. Members thanked the churches for their excellent work in not only preaching the gospel but for the valuable outreach services provided for the benefit of the community. |
| TF 13/012 |
Tonbridge Taster Day |
Ms K Iggulden, on behalf of the Tonbridge Town Team presented details of the Tonbridge Taster Day to be held on Sunday 23 June 2013. Organised by Tonbridge Town Team the day would have a market theme with stalls selling local crafts and produce. Dame Kelly Holmes DBE would open proceedings at 10am. Events planned included dragon boat racing, which would see the Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling participating, fun dog show, 'have a go' sports, street entertainers, music and dance displays and exhibitions. Activities were planned for the High Street, River Walk, the river itself, the Sportsground and the Castle Lawn. Members of the Forum noted that an overwhelming response to the planned events had been received. However, volunteers were still required to assist on the day and everyone was encouraged to offer their support. |
| TF 13/013 |
Kent Police |
Inpector N Sparkes presented an overview of crime and disorder within Tonbridge and advised that the main focus for Kent Police was now 'victim based crime'. At a local level it was reported that anti-social behaviour was down by 8% and current crime affecting Tonbridge related to theft, particularly shoplifting, and burglary. It was noted that the position in Tonbridge was better than in other areas of the borough and many of these crimes could be prevented by locking doors, shutting windows and marking personal belongings. In response to a question from the floor, Inspector Sparkes advised that Kent Police could offer property marking but there were cost implications for the police. Residents were encouraged to explore their own options as there were many kits available on the market. A concern was raised regarding drugs in schools and Inspector Sparkes reassured Members that, despite a few isolated cases, this was not a significant issue. Kent Police visited schools unannounced to undertake spot checks and give talks to pupils. |
| TF 13/014 |
Kent County Council Services Update |
The Kent County Council Community Engagement Manager reported that the 2013/14 Member Grant scheme had launched on 3 June with a shorter application form and updated guidance and terms of reference. Forum Members were advised to contact their local County Councillor for further information. The draft Tonbridge and Malling Cycle Strategy was currently out for public consultation, which ended on 30 June 2013. Feedback received from the consultation would shape the final version of the Cycling Strategy and would be presented to the Tonbridge and Malling Joint Transportation Board in September 2013. Comments could be submitted via the Kent County Council website. Finally, it was reported that following the County Council elections on 2 May Councillors Chris Smith and Richard Long had been elected to represent Tonbridge. Both Tonbridge Members had been given extra responsibilities in the new County Cabinet arrangements. Councillor Smith had been appointed Deputy Cabinet member for Adult Social Services and Public Health and Councillor Long would head up the Governance and Audit Cabinet Committee. |
| TF 13/015 |
Tonbridge Rotary Club Announcement |
It was announced that this year's Christmas Festival would be organised by the Tonbridge Rotary Club. The date earmarked for the Festival was 24 November and enquiries should be directed to the Rotary Club. |
| TF 13/016 |
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council Services Update |
The Leader of the Borough Council was pleased to announce that Councillor Howard Rogers was the new Mayor for Tonbridge and Malling and he would be invited to a future meeting of the Forum. In addition, changes to the Borough Council's Cabinet structure were briefly outlined and the Cabinet member for the new portfolio of Economic Regeneration, Councillor John Balcombe, was introduced to the Forum. |