Every fortnight I write a “Kev’s Column” for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 28th October 2020) below:
Town Deal
A green light for Torquay’s Town Deal and its associated investment plan is a fantastic boost for our bay.
It seems a long journey from July 2018 when a delegation from our bay visited Westminster to meet then Minister Jake Berry, after Grimsby had secured a “one off” Town Deal, to push our case for Torbay being the next place to see one agreed. A Russian Doll, nicknamed “Matilda”, was produced at South Devon College to signify the many layers of Torbay, such as education, health, housing, business and coastal community, it left a lasting impression.
Over the last two years a lot of work has been done to take this project forward, both here in the bay and at Westminster. This has seen different parts of the business community, public sector and our local media all play their part in helping drive the Town Deal project forward.
It was therefore great news to get confirmation this week Torquay’s Town Deal will be one of the first 7 to move forward, clearing the way for £22,000,000 pounds of investment by the Government, on top of the £750,000 already received to deliver 3 schemes this year.
The Town Deal is not just about tackling the issues in the Town Centre but delivering a vision of how we want our Town to be in 2030 and addressing long term social issues as well. The sign off this week is not just about a set of projects being delivered with government funding, but setting in place a long-term approach to working together, creating opportunities for the next generation and turning back the tide of disadvantage.
What about Paignton?
Given this news for Torquay many reading this will then be thinking “What about Paignton?”
Paignton Town Centre is on the list for major support under the Future High Streets Fund, with a bid for up to £19m of investment currently with Government. News is expected soon on the outcome of it.
Animal Cruelty Sentencing
Four years ago, I supported a cross-party attempt to increase the maximum sentence for animal cruelty to 5 years, sadly it did not progress due to the 2017 election being called and parliamentary time running out.
This attempt followed those responsible for some shocking cases of animal cruelty, escaping being sent to prison due to the current maximum sentence being only 6 months. A maximum set a century ago, Northern Ireland has already raised its maximum sentence to 5 years.
Last week there was some fantastic progress as the latest attempt to do this passed its first key test in the House of Commons. It will now be scrutinised in detail by a small committee of MPs, with the Government and Opposition both supporting it.
Surgery Times
I continue to hold my regular advice surgeries, although due to current public health guidance they must be by appointment only.
My next surgeries will be on Saturday 31st October from 11am till 1pm and Friday 6th November from 3pm till 5pm, both at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. Social distancing measures will be in place and please bring a face covering unless you have a medical condition which means you cannot wear one.
To book an appointment you can email me at [email protected] or telephone 01803 214989.
