Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Torbay Weekly and you can read the latest edition (Published on Thursday 29th June 2023) below:
Redcliffe Hotel
With a major new hotel opening there earlier this year and another set to open imminently, it is great to see a third major hotel investment being proposed for Paignton Sea Front.
The plans for the Redcliffe look very impressive and will create jobs. It is also great to see they intend to re-instate elements of the building’s historic layout, enhancing how the building looks on this key seafront site.
It is now almost hard to believe until recently a major new hotel had not been built on Paignton Seafront since the formation of the modern Borough of Torbay in 1968, especially this latest investment project following on so quickly from the new hotels being built. It is therefore very welcome to see this proposal, which will revive one of our most historic hotel buildings.
Alongside projects to revitalise the Paignton Picture House, regenerate Crossways and moves to deal with neglected buildings in Station Square supported by the £13.4m of Government Funding for the Future High Streets Project, it is a big vote of confidence in Paignton and our bay's tourism industry.
Contaminated Blood
In the 1970s and 1980s around 5,000 people with haemophilia and other bleeding disorders were infected with HIV and hepatitis viruses through the use of contaminated clotting factors, some unwittingly then passing it on to their partners.
Many others who did not have a bleeding disorder were infected with hepatitis C because of blood transfusions during that period. Many have since passed away without receiving justice or clear answers as to how this scandal was allowed to happen.
On the 5 April 2023 the Infected Blood inquiry published its report on compensation and redress. It contains several welcome recommendations and many who have waited decades for justice are now keen to see them quickly accepted by the Government.
The Government must not to wait to act where they can and should quickly accept the April recommendations.
Samaritans
I was sorry to hear of former Torbay Councillor Richard Haddock’s death.
Richard was a big character, a long-time campaigner for farming and well-known across our bay. My condolences go to his family who are in my prayers. I won’t repeat the details of his death.
It is though appropriate to mention the team at Samaritans of South Devon who give up their time to be there for anyone who needs them. Their service is completely confidential. No judgement. No pressure. They will provide a listening ear when it might appear no-one else will.
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. They’re there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just call 116 123.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Friday 7th July 10am till 12Noon at Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay TQ1 3DT and Saturday 15th July 11am till 1pm at Preston Baptist Church, Old Torquay Road, Paignton TQ3 2RB.
Surgeries are for personal queries from residents they would like me to help them with. For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989. There are also drop-in sessions at my office 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD between 10am & 1pm Monday to Friday where a member of my team will be available to help with any queries.
