Agenda item

The Leader referred to the absence of Cllr M Coffin, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Waste and Transformation, who had unfortunately experienced an accident over the weekend and sustained serious injuries.  Despite his condition he remained dedicated to his responsibilities as a councillor and keen to remain engaged with the work of the Borough Council. The Council extended best wishes to Cllr Coffin and looked forward to  his return as soon as possible. 

The Leader welcomed a guest from Austria who was observing how national and local government operated in the UK. It was hoped that his experience here would provide valuable opportunities for comparison with Austria’s systems.  Furthermore, it was an opportunity to observe a council meeting where Members engaged respectfully across party lines and collaborated actively, qualities which were highly valued in the Borough Council. 

It was confirmed that there was significant collaboration among many councils regarding local government reorganisation.  This month was critical as the submission deadline of 28 November 2025 approached.  There were five main options under consideration, although some proposed models might not meet the Government’s criteria.  Nevertheless, productive partnerships continued throughout Kent and the Leader looked forward to updating Members further at an all Member Briefing, once details were available, and the debate at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in November. 

In the meantime, work in the Borough continued.  Recent meetings, such as the Housing and Planning Scrutiny Select Committee exemplified constructive, fact-based debate and demonstrated Member’s commitment to addressing challenging government planning policy changes.  The draft Local Plan was moving to public consultation, subject to Cabinet ratification.  The Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning (Cllr Taylor) would attend numerous public meetings to inform residents about the process and encourage participation.  These events organised in partnership with parish/town councils aimed to ensure accessibility and meaningful feedback from all communities.  Online forums would also be hosted for greater inclusivity.

In addition, the Bluebell Hill temporary accommodation project team would be available for a drop-in session on Thursday 6 November at Bridgewood Manor Hotel to discuss the modular homes development. All interested residents were welcome to attend.

The Leader extended thanks to all those involved in recent award-winning projects, such as the living roof bus shelter near Tonbridge Station and the refurbishment of the spa at Tonbridge Swimming Pool, both of which were recognised by the Tonbridge Civic Society for their innovation and quality.

Following the adoption of the Masterplan for the East of the High Street area in Tonbridge, survey responses indicated strong public support for the Borough Council’s regeneration efforts. With local government reorganisation approaching there was now an unique opportunity to implement long-term ambitions, beginning with the construction of the new Angel Leisure Centre.

Residents would notice a new orange sticker on black general waste bins as part of the Borough Council’s drive to improve food waste recycling. Educational materials and free food caddy liners would be distributed to households to encourage participation.

Lastly, the Leader highlighted the upcoming Tonbridge and Malling Community Awards which would take place next month. This inaugural event recognised outstanding contributions within the community.  Nominations remained open until the end of the week.

Full Leaders announcements were available on the Borough Council’s YouTube channel.