Insight

Borough

SUMMER 2018

REGENERATING
THE TOWN
CENTRE
RECYCLING
HITS NEW
HEIGHTS

CLEAN
AIR FOR
Image: Aqua Challenge – Maidstone Leisure Centre

SCHOOLS

SHEMOMEDJAMO
M U LT I C U LT U R A L
F O O D F E ST I VA L
Welcome...
to the summer edition of Borough Insight.
CONTENTS
Our Leader’s viewpoint 4

Dust off those shades, slap on the
sunblock and get ready for the
heatwave as we head towards the
summer holidays! This season is
synonymous with festivals and
family fun and we’re pleased to say
that residents and visitors are in for a real treat.
Shemomedjamo is back for a second year
- only bigger and better. This free three day
multicultural food festival was a real hit last year,
5
REGENERATING
MAIDSTONE
TOWN CENTRE
Homefinders incentive scheme for landlords 6
Lenworth House gets facelift 6
Household Enquiry Form - It's not junk mail! 6
Maidstone: a great place to do business! 7
The Community Protection team 8

10
and we know that even more people will flock to
sample cuisine from around the globe and soak
SHEMOMEDJAMO
up that Maidstone music festival vibe during the MULTICULTURAL
August bank holiday. FOOD FESTIVAL

Look out for Paul Kidby’s exhibition Discworld
and Beyond from July – September at the
Maidstone Museum. Many of you will be familiar
with his distinctive illustrations as showcased
in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld books. Paul’s
own projects, influenced by British folklore and
Kent Comedy Festival 10
Make a splash with Maidstone Leisure Centre 11
What’s on at the Museum 12
Green spaces, natural faces 13

14-15
landscapes, will also feature as part of this RECYCLING
stunning temporary exhibition – don’t miss it. HITS NEW
HEIGHTS
Lastly, the Borough Insight magazine has reached
its first birthday! We are always keen to hear your Fighting back on fly-tipping 16
views and so we are providing residents with an
opportunity to complete a quick online survey to

16
tell us what you think of the magazine. CLEAN AIR
FOR SCHOOLS
Everyone that completes the survey will be INITIATIVE
in with a chance to win a family ticket to this
year’s fabulous pantomime Aladdin at the Hazlitt Park & Ride: take the easy road! 16
Theatre – so well worth having your say. Full
details can be found on page 18.

17
SPOTLIGHT
We hope you enjoy reading this edition and have a ON ...
great summer. COXHEATH

Georgie Grassom, Editor Happy Birthday to Borough Insight! 18

Pomp and picnics 18
Aladdin at the Hazlitt Theatre 18
Editors: Georgie Grassom, Sarah-Jane Adams Poppy-making at Involve hub 19
and Ann-Marie Langley
Mind Maidstone + Mid-Kent AGM 19
Design: Leese Johnstone-Puplett, Sue Fuller
Advertising Sales: 01622 602560 70 birthday bash for the Queen's Gurkhas
th
19
communications@maidstone.gov.uk Your Councillors 2018-2019 20-21
maidstonebc maidstonecouncil Recruiting opportunity 21
maidstoneboroughcouncil maidstonebc A warm welcome to our new Mayor! 22

3

OUR LEADER’S
VIEWPOINT
I am very pleased to have been elected as Leader
of Maidstone Borough Council and am looking
forward to continuing to help shape Maidstone
as a key location, for not only its residents, but
businesses and visitors alike.
Maidstone, the County Town of Kent, is steeped in
history and is a beautiful town, founded on rich
traditions and industry. The borough is growing
in diversity and we, as a council, are working
hard to listen and respond to the ever-changing
needs of our communities - whether investing
in infrastructure or supporting key development
opportunities.
Whilst individual needs of residents may vary,
I believe that the Council’s three core priorities
for 2018 extend to everyone – unifying us in a
common goal to raise the standard of living for all.
1 A Home for Everyone
Safe, Clean and
2 Green Environment
The Regeneration of
3 the Town Centre
These three areas of focus will form the bedrock
of all the decisions we make on behalf of our
residents.
4
A Home for Everyone should mean exactly that.
Escalating cost and inability to save for a deposit
is a real concern to many who are trying to rent or
purchase a home for the first time. I want to ensure
that the homes we provide, be it through development
or Council owned properties, offer realistic and
affordable properties so people are able to enjoy a
good lifestyle balance.
Our sense of identity and pride we feel comes from
many aspects of our lives: family, friends and work
– even the area we live in. This feeling of pride or
sense of community is powerful and one that I hope
people feel for the borough. I know, from the many
recent conversations with residents, that they want the
Council to keep the streets clean and also encourage
a ‘green’ approach to housing development – this will
help to reinforce a sense of pride in their area.
You may have noticed that we have started work on
phase three of the Public Realm work in Gabriel’s Hill
and Week Street. I am confident that this dramatic
transformation will greatly improve the look, access
and business potential in these areas of the town. The
shared open spaces have been specifically designed to
celebrate Maidstone’s heritage and provide a relaxed
visitor and shopping experience.
FIND OUT MORE
ABOUT GABRIEL'S
HILL AND WEEK
STREET ON P5 >
We are working, not only to reinvigorate these areas,
but provide a more rounded and holistic approach to
all areas of transformation including Maidstone East,
Mote Park and other key sites for the benefit of the
borough.
I look forward to sharing more about the Council’s
future plans and successes.
Martin Cox
Cllr Martin Cox
Leader of the Council
REGENERATING
MAIDSTONE TOWN CENTRE
We are investing £3.1 million into regenerating Week Street and Gabriel’s
Hill - two of the town’s most historic streets, which link Maidstone East
Station and Gala Bingo to the town centre.
Our aim is to make Maidstone an attractive place
to live, work and visit. This project will have a
positive impact on the town as a whole and is part
of our wider plans for regeneration.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Martin Cox said:
“This project represents a significant
investment by the Council as part of its capital
programme and will enhance Maidstone’s
reputation as a key destination for shoppers.
Improving the attractiveness of the streets
will encourage visitors to spend more time
here, which should help to increase retail
spend, which will promote investment in
property and help to reduce the number of
vacant shops.”
The works will include improvements to drainage,
and resurfacing with block paving to produce a
level surface. There will also be better wayfinding,
more landscaping and art works.
The designs draw upon Maidstone’s rich heritage
and include public squares at key junctions to link
with side roads, such as ‘Museum Square’ at the
junction of St Faith’s Street, linking with Maidstone
Museum. A time trail will also run all the way from
Maidstone East Station to Gala Bingo, marking key
points in Maidstone’s history.
Henderson and Taylor (Public Works) Ltd have
been appointed to carry out the works, which
began in May.
Further details about the project can be found at:
www.maidstone.gov.uk/weekstreetandgabrielshill
5
 Maidstone Homefinders
Incentive Scheme for Landlords
If you are a landlord with a property in excellent
condition then we want to hear from you!
We are offering landlords an incentive Alternatively, our flexible scheme offers:
for every property the Council can use to One-off cash payment (Room/1 Bed:
provide housing for clients on its housing
£500, 2 Bed: £1000, 3 Bed+: £1500)
register. We have a range of offers to suit
you. You could benefit from the following No LHA cap
bonuses: Minimum fixed-term tenancy 6 months
One-off cash payment between Free inventory
£2,500 - £4,000 Free tenancy support
LHA cap
Minimum fixed-term tenancy 12 months
Free inventory To find out more, contact the Housing Team on
01622 602252 or homefinders@maidstone.gov.uk
Free tenancy support

LENWORTH HOUSE GETS FACELIFT HOUSEHOLD

On the corner of King Street and
the A249, we’re undertaking
the refurbishment of Lenworth
House into rental apartments.
Due for completion in December,
the building will comprise of
14 new and converted flats,
available in one, two or three
bedroom units.
The three storey Lenworth House
was originally built in 1820, with
an additional two storey red brick
front building added in the later
part of the 19th century. This
project is being undertaken with
specialist help from construction
consultants Martin Arnold, to
ensure that all refurbishment
work and new build areas are
sympathetic to the site’s history.
Maidstone Borough Council’s
Housing Development team are
undertaking regular site visits
to review work as it progresses,
and have been instrumental in
selecting internal fixtures and
fittings, and choosing colour
schemes.
ENQUIRY FORM:
IT’S NOT SPAM
OR JUNK MAIL
The Annual Canvass of the
Electoral Register is due to
start soon. This means that you
will each receive a Household
Enquiry Form (HEF) through the
post at the beginning of July.
Don’t ignore it, you must return
it! Follow the simple instructions
provided and remember the best
way to return the form is online
as this saves the council time
and money.
Did you know that returning
your HEF form means you
can vote in elections and may
improve your credit rating?
For further information visit
www.maidstone.gov.uk/
votingandelections

6
MAIDSTONE: BUSINESS RESULTS
FOR MAIDSTONE 2017
A GREAT PLACE
TO DO BUSINESS! 9,961 businesses
operating*

With the high street changing daily and many

established businesses struggling to maintain 1,381new businesses launched*

their market share, it is comforting to know

that companies in Maidstone appear to be
bucking the trend. Survival Rate: Maidstone
ranked no.
The results for Maidstone in 2017 illustrate real growth
and initial data for the first quarter in 2018 indicates 93.1% of businesses
started in 2015 In Medway
that we have every reason to be confident that this survived the it was
trend and inward investment will continue. first year 92%
Maidstone is definitely establishing itself as the
Business Capital of Kent and here’s why! supported 614
people from
MAIDSTONE
September 2015–May 2018
*Source: Company House records compiled by Kent County Council

COMING SOON

LINDEN MEADOWS, COXHEATH

A selection of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes in the
heart of the popular village of Coxheath.
Close to the school, local shops and amenities.
Traditional Kent architectural style
combined with Westerhill Homes signature
specification and quality of build.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST NOW 

01622 740170
www.westerhillhomes.co.uk

7
 THE COMMUNITY A specialist department
designed to act against
Antisocial Behaviour,

PROTECTION TEAM
looking after the safety
and wellbeing of
residents.

A POSITIVE OUTCOME FOR

A STRUGGLING RESIDENT
Recently MBC staff had to take action in a
particularly difficult case, which involved
extreme hoarding, self-neglect and
animal welfare. Thanks to the care of the
Community Protection team, in partnership
with medical practitioners and organisations
such as the RSPCA, this challenging
situation had the best possible resolution
for the resident involved.
Community Protection Officer Michael
Swoffer explains:
“Residents were concerned about a neighbour
who had an overflowing cesspit and signs of
rats going into their property. Upon inspection,
it was clear that further intervention was
required. After gaining the occupant’s trust,
emphasising that the Council were there to
help, an officer gained entry to the property,
where they found a huge build-up of domestic,
human and animal waste. Works were
carried out in default of a notice and after an
extensive two week clear and cleanse of the
property, the individual is now living in a safe
and comfortable environment.
This case was very emotional for all involved
- I was very close to the occupant of the
property during the clearance and cleansing
process. Although it was a difficult matter to
deal with I am very pleased to say that the
occupant’s life has dramatically improved.
LET’S TACKLE DOMESTIC
ABUSE IN MAIDSTONE
With incidents of domestic violence sadly
increasing during sporting events such as the
World Cup, the Community Protection team
knew that they had to do something to confront
the issue of abuse against women in Maidstone.
Encouraging men to take a pledge against physical
or verbal aggression, the department has forged
partnerships with local venues, such as pubs and
clubs, who will be screening football matches this
summer, in order to raise awareness and urge
behavioural change.
Fundraising is also underway to support Kent-wide
charity Choices, who provide refuge and support for
local women who are living with the terrible reality of
domestic violence. MBC officers also hosted a public
event in the town centre to bring the White Ribbon
campaign into the community, attended by White
Ribbon ambassador Cllr Matt Burton, using football-
based games, giveaways and performance art to
open the discussion about protecting vulnerable
women and putting an end to all abuse associated
with the World Cup – and beyond.
For help with domestic violence, contact Choices on
0800 917 9948 or info@choicesdaservice.org.uk

One of the reasons I chose this career was to

help people, and the successful resolution of
this case is certainly one of the high points in
my career. Seeing someone go from a very
low and depressed state to a big smile is
hugely satisfying.“

We’re happy to report that this resident is

now undertaking improvement work on the
property, and is functioning as a proud and
happy home owner.

8
I’m Matthew Scott, the Police and
Crime Commissioner for Kent
My role includes holding the Chief Constable to account, setting the
council tax precept for policing, commissioning services for victims of
crime and funding community safety projects.
I also set the policing priorities for the county by consulting with
residents like yourself; so I’d be grateful if you could complete this
short survey about policing where you live.
Let me know your views by filling out this survey and returning it to me.

Name: First half of your postcode:

Gender (male/female/Non-Binary/Trans/Intersex/prefer not to say) Age: Ethnicity:

Do you currently work for, or volunteer with, the police? � Yes � No

Have you been a victim of a crime in Kent in the last year? � Yes � No

How safe do you feel where you live, on a scale of 1 to 10?

(where 1 is ‘very unsafe’ and 10 is ‘very safe’)

The PCC is responsible for the Kent Police budget of £333.3million for 2018/19, or roughly £185
per person in the county.
On a scale of 1 to 10, do you think the services you get represent value for that £185?
(where 1 is ‘very poor value for money’ and 10 is ‘excellent value for money’)

In your view, what one type of crime or anti-social behaviour does your local area have the biggest
issue with?

Tell us one thing you think Kent Police does really well:

Tell us one thing you think Kent Police could do better:

If you would you like to opt-in to receive our monthly e-newsletter, please give your email address here:

Tell us where you heard about this survey: Maidstone Council's Borough Insight magazine

Please cut out and return this form to:

Annual Policing Survey 2018, OPCC, Kent Police HQ,
Sutton Road, Maidstone ME15 9BZ

Or, if you prefer, you can complete this survey online at

www.kent-pcc.gov.uk/consultations

For information about how we use your personal information

please visit www.kent-pcc.gov.uk/privacy

9
 Shemomedjamo KENT COMEDY
A Multicultural
Food Festival, FESTIVAL
A new event for Maidstone is
25-27 August opening its doors this autumn,
with Mote Park hosting the first
This fabulous free festival Kent Comedy Festival.
boasts a high quality
From Sep 29th – Oct 6th, the
programme of world music,
laughs carry on all week, as a
dance, art and craft - stellar line-up of hilarious comics
drawing in food, drink and perform in an auditorium freshly
music lovers from across built for the occasion. Acts on the
the county and beyond. bill include TV favourites such
as Lee Nelson, I’m a Celebrity
The three day festival will serve runner-up Joel Dommett and Mock
up a feast of food from across the the Week’s Andy Parsons, with
globe, made using local produce headliner Hal Cruttenden. Local
wherever possible. Alongside talent will also be taking stand-
the delicious food, a creative and up spots, and food traders and
intelligent programme of music licensed bars will accompany the
will deliver a global soundtrack. antics at the mic.
www.visitmaidstone.com For more information on this side-
splitting night out, head to
www.kentcomedyfest.com

Come and see

Summer Fun
Peter Rabbit
at intervals
on Monday
6 August
at the Farm! - 21 July - 2 September
Farm Activities and Live Entertainment!
Peter Rabbit™ © Frederick Warne & Co. Limited and
Silvergate PPL Limited, 2018. All rights reserved.

UST WATE HOP

AUAGRACTEERS I V ING CREPER’S
BIN R D HOO
CH ARANC ZOR R L ICE AM &
APPE G SC BAR Come and see
Peppa Pig & George
at intervals on
CHILDREN’S ATTRACTIONS 16 August.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY AREA HOPPER’S ANIMAL FARM HOPPER’S
DINER & SOFT PLAY JUMPING PILLOWS MAGIC CASTLE 4D CINEMA
INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT SHOWS BUMPER CARZ HORSE & CART
RIDES THE HOP STORY FACE PAINTING INFLATABLE GAMES BUNGEES Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.
LASER GAMES TRAMPOLINES AND MUCH MORE…
SUBJECT TO CHANGE

The Hop Farm Family Park DRE

N’S
Maidstone Rd, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6PY CHIL
TIES
01622 872068 PAORM £12.9D5
FR R CHIL
www.hopfarm.co.uk PE

Summer Fun 2018 185 x 133 ls.indd 1 15/06/2018 16:44

10
 LET’S MAKE A SPLASH
You want fun times in the pool?
Maidstone Leisure Centre has
got that. You want lessons to
learn a key life skill? We've got
those too. And how about the
amazing Aqua Challenge - the
inflatable obstacle course in
a swimming pool? It's super
popular, so we know you'll love
that already!
Maidstone Leisure Centre
is the place to be for water
babies and those a bit older -
it's somewhere for the whole
family to come, take a break
from the outside world and
make a splash this summer.
And we're right by Mote Park,
so easy to find with plenty of
parking.
Here's a
flavour of
our summer
selection:
FUN POOL
Great for the whole family with
rapids, waves, interactive water
features, a spa pool and baby
beach for the little ones. Family
Fun sessions are run throughout
the week and the awesome Wave
Rave Pool Party is on every Friday
evening.
AQUA CHALLENGE
You've already read about this. It's
the biggest thing to hit Maidstone
in years. A giant inflatable
assault course that's a real
challenge. Suitable for confident
swimmers aged 6+. Book online to
guarantee your place, it's on every
weekend throughout the year and
weekdays during school holidays.
To find out more, go online and visit maidstoneleisure.com,
call 01622 2202 32 or follow MaidstoneLeisure on Facebook.
THIS SUMMER!
SWIMMING LESSONS
An essential life skill, the centre
follows the Swim England Learn
to Swim programme. Learning
to swim is one of those things
everyone should be able to do.
It builds confidence out of the
water as well, so give them a
call or pop in to get signed up.
DON’T LIKE GETTING WET?
If you like keeping your feet dry,
we've got the Polar Adventure Soft
Play and Ice Hills Slides for kids
aged up to 12. A great way to let
off steam and burn energy in a
fun and safe environment. Polar
Adventure has a special under 5s
area with ball pit and toys for the
toddlers to enjoy.
HOLIDAY CLUB
During the school holidays, let
us take the strain. Our super-
friendly Children's Activities Team
run holiday clubs with sports,
entertainment, arts and crafts,
swimming and fun workshops to
keep your kids happy and healthy
during the school break.
11
 WHAT’S ON AT
THE MUSEUM
See the full event listings on our website:
maidstonemuseum.org
EXHIBITIONS
PAUL KIDBY: DISCWORLD
& BEYOND
7 JULY - 2 SEPTEMBER
Best known as the illustrator
of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld
books, this exhibition showcases
Paul’s wonderful book covers and
illustrations.
Adults £4, Children (7-18yrs) £2,
Family £10
--------------------------------------
GLORIOUS GLASS
15 SEPTEMBER - 10 NOVEMBER
An exhibition featuring works
from both international high
flyers and hobbyists from the
South East.
FREE
--------------------------------------
RE-IMAGINING THE DOLL’S
HOUSE
15 SEPTEMBER - 10 NOVEMBER A HISTORIE OF MAGICK
A collaborative exhibition of
historic doll’s houses from the
museum’s own collections,
combined with contemporary
artists’ and makers’ work.
FREE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12
SPECIAL EVENTS MUSEUM LATES
STEAMPUNK MUGGLETON Join us on the last Thursday
of every month for a special
VILLAGE WITH H P
evening when we’re open
LOVECRAFT FILM FESTIVAL until 9pm. Over 18s only.
14 JULY
Join in our glorious steampunk FILM NIGHT - LABYRINTH
adventure! Try, buy, fly - it’s all 26 JULY
here today. Films, bellydancing, Come and watch this classic
steampunk trail and more! fantasy film - cocktail included!
FREE £12, MMF £10
---------------------------------------
MORGAN & WEST: TIME-
TRAVELLING MAGICIANS
--------------------------------------- 30 AUGUST
A show brimming with baffling
SUMMER HOLIDAY
WORKSHOPS magic, unparalleled precognitive
31 JULY - 30 AUGUST powers and a totally genuine
Enjoy a whole summer of ability to travel through time!
creative workshops inspired £17
by our Discworld & Beyond
exhibition.
£3, MMF £2.50
?
--------------------------------------
QUIZ NIGHT
27 SEPTEMBER
-------------------------------------- Five fiendish
rounds of quirky
IN KENT questions,
11 AUGUST including
Local historian Naomi Dickins a round of mystery
? ?
gives a spellbinding talk on the museum objects and
history of witchcraft in Kent. a round in the galleries.
£5, MMF £4 £10, MMF £8 meal included
GREEN SPACES
NATURAL FACES
............................
The Learning team at Maidstone Museum has
received substantial funding from Artswork,
a bridge organisation of the Arts Council,
to deliver an exciting art-based health and
wellbeing project with 15 local schools.
The ‘Green Spaces, Natural Faces’ project
will see pupils, who might not otherwise have
the opportunity, spend a day in the museum
investigating different art forms and looking
at emotions, faces and expressions. They will
then create their own piece of art with a focus
on expressions of ‘self’.
In the second part of the project, pupils will
spend a day in their nearest green space or park
working with Outdoor Studios (OS), a specialist
Arts company. OS has developed 4 activity
workshops that schools will each do one of, based
on their health and wellbeing requirements.
Laura Thomas of OS said:
“We’re delighted to be working with Maidstone
Museum on this exciting project. Our workshops help
connect people to natural and urban environments
across a range of arts disciplines, encouraging
exploration of different tools and techniques through
practical, hands-on experience. They’re great fun
and really help engage children with nature, which
is particularly valuable to those with limited access
to the natural environment.”
Golding Homes are also supporting the project
with a generous donation towards the activities,
as well as £500 to enable each school to apply for
Artsmark registration, a creative quality standard
for schools, accredited by Arts Council England.
Caroline McBride, Head of Community
Development for Golding Homes, said:
“We are really pleased to have the opportunity to
partner in this exciting project which gives children the
opportunity to explore health and wellbeing through
art. The project will also leave a lasting legacy in each
school as a result of teachers being trained to deliver
the “Arts Award” Programme in future years.”
Roz Meredith, Learning and Events Officer at
Maidstone Museum, added:
"We’re thrilled to have received funding for this
project, which will enable us to reach out to many
more children, who might not otherwise have the
opportunity to take part in this kind of activity.”
There is no cost to the schools involved since
these will be met by the project, including coach
transport, art materials, refreshments and supply
cover for those teachers busy making art with
their class out in the environment.
OOLS TAKI
H N
SC
GP
AR
:
T
St Michaels Junior School
North Borough Junior School
Tree Tops Primary Academy
Molehill Primary Academy
Oaks Primary Academy
Langley Park Primary Academy
Jubilee Primary School
Senacre Wood Primary School
West Borough Primary School
South Borough Primary School
Archbishop Courtenay Primary School
Valley Invicta at Leybourne Chase
Valley Invicta at Kings Hill
Valley Invicta at Holborough Lakes
Greenfields Community Primary School
13
 WE’RE CLOSER TO BAGGING THAT
RECYCLING TOP SPOT!
Maidstone’s recycling service was introduced to the borough in
2009, and since this date we have been working, with the help
of our residents, to increase our recycling efforts.
In the first year, residents recycled around 28% 2020 ahead of schedule. Residents have certainly
of their waste - however, there was a growing embraced the service and steadily recycled more and
recognition for a need to be more environmentally more each year, with the latest results placing us as
conscious. With this in mind, the Council set out to the second best performing borough in Kent!
make improvements to its recycling service with
an aim to accept more recyclable items - making it Thank you to everyone for helping us to recycle even
easier and greener for all residents. more. We’re absolutely thrilled to be second place but
can we go one better – with your help we’re sure we
We are proud to say that for the very first time, can.
Maidstone residents have recycled and composted
over 50% of their household waste, meeting the Together, let’s keep recycling and see if we can bag
government and European Union recycling target for that number one spot!

What you helped to achieve from April 2017 – March 2018

RECYCLED
51.22% OF
51% ALL WASTE
COLLECTED 15,251 TONNES OF HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
RECYCLED VIA GREEN RECYCLING BINS

THAT’S ABOUT LANGLEY

3.65% INCREASED
PARTICIPATION
IN THE FOOD
2,555
MORE HOUSEHOLDS
BOUGHTON
MONCHELSEA
CHART
SUTTON

RECYCLING SUTTON

COLLECTION TAKING PART! VALENCE

SERVICE What does that look like? It’s more than

Sutton Valence, Chart Sutton, Langley
and Boughton Monchelsea combined!

11%
MORE FOOD WASTE HAS BEEN COLLECTED
USING THE FOOD RECYCLING SERVICE INSTEAD
OF BEING PLACED IN THE REFUSE BIN

14
HOW YOU CAN HELP TO Putting the wrong items
BUT ... DOES IT into your recycling bin can
RECYCLE EVEN MORE! REALLY cause a BIG problem at
MAKE A DIFFERENCE the recycling facility.
WHICH BIN
I USE?
EMPTY AND RINSE YES! If there are too many
HERE’S non-recyclable items
CONTAINERS TO REMOVE WHY: (contamination) in any
ANY FOOD RESIDUE load, it may result in the
whole lorry of recycling
ENSURE RECYCLING IS being rejected. That
PLACED LOOSE means that all your

X
efforts have gone to
IN THE BIN waste as rejected loads
(NO BAGS) must be disposed of
instead of being recycled.
SQUASH ITEMS TO SAVE
of our
SPACE IN YOUR recycling
RECYCLING BIN collected
last year
could not be
ONLY PLACE ITEMS IN processed. These
YOUR RECYCLING BINS items had to be sent
for disposal instead.
THAT WE ARE ABLE
TO RECYCLE
HERE’S A QUICK REMINDER OF WHAT
GOES IN YOUR RECYCLING BIN

Paper + card Plastic wrap + bags

Paper stained with food,

e.g. pizza boxes / paper plates
Food + drinks cartons
QUIZ TIME! (plastic + Tetra Pak)

What do you think are Crisp packets +

the top 3 things we find sweet wrappers
in green bins that cannot Metal, tin + foil
be recycled in that way?
be placed in your food bin for composting. Polystyrene
supermarket if possible), and food should
Glass bottles + jars
recycle plastic bags at your local
in your black refuse bin or black sack (or Nappies
food. Nappies and bags should be placed
Answer: Nappies, plastic bags and

15
 FIGHTING BACK
ON FLY-TIPPING
OVER A 6 WEEK PERIOD IN MAY-JUNE 2018, THESE ARE THE
STATS ON YOUR COUNCIL’S FIGHT AGAINST FLY-TIPPING

18 REPORTS
WITH EVIDENCE

317 REPORTS
IN TOTAL
ALL INVESTIGATED WITHIN 48 HOURS Our Clean Air for Schools initiative

136
gives children the chance to monitor
CLEARED 2 air quality, encouraging them to take an
WITHIN DAYS interest in their environment and helping

58
to reduce pollution at the school gate.
CLEARED 4 An engaging class experiment, schools who
WITHIN DAYS sign up to the scheme will receive two free air
monitoring tubes per month, alongside guidance
4 WARNINGS ISSUED on recording data and reporting the results back to
the Council.
This hands-on approach allows students to
15 LEGAL NOTICES ISSUED analyse the direct relationship between the volume
of traffic outside their school and its impact on
air pollution within the grounds. The objective is
to encourage a reduction in car journeys made

TAKE THE by parents and to highlight the effects of leaving

engines idle while dropping off and collecting

EASY ROAD! children.

In the first 10 days following

changes introduced to Park &
Ride on 1st June 2018, a total of
7,992 people used the service,
with an average of 2.5 people to
each car!
Initial comments have been
encouraging. Cllr Martin Cox,
Leader of the Council, was there
on the day of the launch and
said: “We hope that these new
changes that are being trialled
for a year will offer far greater
flexibility to users and a more
sustainable service in the future.
We will continue to monitor
and evaluate the success of the
service over the next few months
and hope that you will continue
to share you views of the
improvements we have made."
www.maidstone.gov.uk/park&ride
Convenient locations
(Willington Street &
London Road)
Buses operate
Mon-Fri 7am-7pm
and Sat 8am-7pm
All drivers pay just
£2.50 to park all day
Car share! Up to 6
people can travel (1 The project has been launched in conjunction with
driver, 5 passengers) the KM Charity Team’s Green Champions, and is
sponsored by the MidKent Environmental Health
Cashless payment Team, ensuring that no funding is required from
for speedy boarding schools. For more information, or to register, visit:
www.maidstone.gov.uk/cleanairforschools

16
 SPOTLIGHT ON
COXHEATH

Think of a traditional village activity and we’re guessing there is something to suit all tastes
that a world-class custard pie throwing competition would and with a butchers and bakery
too you won’t go short on the
be quite far down on your list; however, Coxheath village essentials!
has been the official home of this famous annual event
since its inception in 1967! Sport and open spaces lie at
the heart of the village and the
Former Mayor of Maidstone, Mike The origins of its industrial heritage community village hall is used for
Fitzgerald, was inspired by Charlie are steeped in fruit farming but a number of activities from street
Chaplin to create a fantastic pie- over the years it has transformed dance and gymnastics through to
throwing frenzy as a way to raise into the modern village you see ballet and bingo - there is certainly
funds to build the village hall. The today. a lot for everyone to get involved in.
idea quickly caught the imagination
of the locals and a new tradition Despite the steady
was born! Over 51 years later the
competition is still going strong and development of the village it
attracts team entries from around has successfully managed to
the globe including Germany and retain its sense of community
even China!
values, whilst embracing
commercial opportunities
to improve the lives of
Photo © Nick Smith

residents.
Photo © Colin Smith

Not only does Coxheath benefit

from a number of local shops,
restaurants and purpose-built
village hall, it also has two medical
Behind the custard, cream and practices, a library, café, public
slapstick, lies a lovely large village house, dental practice and primary
that lies to the south of Maidstone. school too. Whether you love Indian Competition seems to be in the
Built on the Greensand Ridge, cuisine, tandoori or fish and chips, blood and residents of Coxheath
Coxheath overlooks the Weald of recently entered Channel 4’s
Kent with the Kent Downs to the programme Britain’s Village of
north. The Greensand Way runs the Year 2017 hosted by Dame
Photo © David Anstiss

along the ridge on the outskirts Penelope Keith. Despite missing out
of the village. Twinned with La on a spot in the South East regional
Séguinière, a village in the Loire semi-finals, the residents were
Valley of France, residents still pleased to be involved and were
participate in annual exchange delighted to show that the village
visits between the two villages to has so much more to offer than just
this day. a good custard pie!

17
 POMP + On May 26, crowds
gathered in the beautiful

PICNICS bank holiday sunshine to

enjoy the annual Proms in
the Park event at Whatman

BOROUGH Park.
On what turned out to be
INSIGHT one of the warmest days
This July marks one year since of the year so far, guests
the launch of Borough Insight and were entertained by a
to celebrate we’d like to offer you host of performers. Boogie
a chance to win theatre tickets! Monsters and Punch and
The Council’s own magazine is produced
Judy kept the children
three times per year and is circulated to over amused, before Invicta
68,000 residents. It forms an important part Jazz and the Hazlitt Choir
of how the Council lets residents know about
the work being carried out in the borough,
took to the main stage.
as well as any changes to services or As the sun went down, the
good news stories that we’d
like to share with you. evening was rounded off
with a rousing programme
by Maidstone Wind
Symphony.

We are always working

to improve the way in which
Aladdin at the
you receive up-to-date information and
would like to hear about how you think we
Hazlitt Theatre
can improve the magazine. He’s behind you! Former EastEnders
actor and comedian Richard Blackwood
Why not complete the easy online will be treading the boards in Maidstone
survey and you could be in with a this festive season, as he leads the cast
chance to win a family ticket for four of Aladdin at the Hazlitt Theatre. Richard
to see the pantomime Aladdin at the has previously appeared as Donkey in the
Hazlitt Theatre this Christmas! 2011 West End production of Shrek, been
a resident of Albert Square from 2015-2018, and
To enter visit: reached number three in the UK music chart back in the
www.maidstone.gov.uk/HaveYourSay year 2000.
The survey closes on 23rd September and the draw
will take place on 28th September. The lucky winner Running from Dec 1st-31st, Richard plays the part of the
will be notified by phone or email by 1st October. Genie in this family-friendly pantomime. You don’t need
We look a magic lamp to wish yourself some tickets – they are on
forward
GH INSIGHT... sale now via the Box Office on 01622 758611, or online at
U
RO
to hearing www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/hazlitttheatre
IS PRINTED ON
your views BLE
RECYCLA
BO

and good
COSTS PAPER
luck! JUST
PER COPY TO IS DELIVERED
PRODUCE BY

18
INVOLVE HUB The Involve Hub is open to the public MONDAY –
FRIDAY, 10am to 4pm. www.involvekent.org.uk

Marking the centenary of the end of World

War One, Golding Homes are leading 5000
Poppies, a project to display thousands of
handmade poppies during an exhibition at
Maidstone Museum.

Involve volunteers have already made 250

knitted poppies, with wool and patterns
freely available to those who wish to help
with the campaign – simply drop in to
the hub on the ground floor of The Mall
shopping centre.

MIND AGM –
MAIDSTONE 70TH BIRTHDAY BASH
AND MID-KENT for Queen's Gurkhas
YOUR LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH
CHARITY IN THE BOROUGH,
MMK MIND, WILL BE HOLDING
THEIR AGM AT THE TOWN HALL,
MIDDLE ROW, MAIDSTONE, ME14
1TF ON 6TH JULY.
Pop down at 12 noon to hear from
service users, members of staff and
local community members as they
discuss the different mental health
services which have taken shape over
the past year.

You are also welcome to network

with staff and fellow service users
afterwards – with refreshments
included.
If you’d like to attend, please email
heidibunting@mmkmind.org.uk.
www.maidstonemind.org
This year sees the special 70th
Birthday celebration of the Queen’s
Gurkha Engineers. The 69 and 70
Gurkha Field Squadrons are a key
part of the 36 Engineer Regiment.
The world-famous Gurkhas have
played a significant role in operations
and tasks around the world for
over 200 years for Britain. Gurkhas
were first enlisted into the Corps of
Royal Engineers in September 1948
when a Gurkha Training Squadron
was established in Malaya. The
Regiment later became part of the
Brigade of Gurkhas and ‘The Gurkha
Engineers’ on 28th September; this
date is celebrated as the Regimental
Birthday.
The QGE have been based in
Maidstone since the early 1990’s,
moving to Invicta Park Barracks
in 1993 where they remain today.
Given that Maidstone has the second
largest community of Gurkhas in
Kent, they are a key part of our
community. This is evidenced by
how veterans and their families
have stayed in the borough, showing
the great links and relationships
between the Maidstone borough and
the Armed Forces community.
Although the regiment is heavily
committed, they will be celebrating
this anniversary at the Invicta Park
Barracks in September 2018.

19
YOUR COUNCILLORS 2018 - 2019
All Councillor email addresses are [name]*@maidstone.gov.uk *(minus any hyphens)

ALLINGTON WARD DETLING AND THURNHAM WARD HIGH STREET WARD

Dan Daley Nick de Wiggondene Clive English

01622 672459 01622 200222 07922 616858

Diana Lewins Denise Joy

01622 766075 DOWNSWOOD AND OTHAM WARD 01622 674063

Cynthia Robertson Gordon Newton Fran Wilson

01622 753517 01622 862330 01622 673349

BARMING AND TESTON WARD EAST WARD LEEDS WARD

Fay Gooch Martin Cox Gill Fort

Deputy Leader of the Council and Leader of the Council and 01622 861605
Leader of the Independent Group Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group
01622 726608 07970 723975
LOOSE WARD
Nicola Fissenden
BEARSTED WARD 01622 755494 Susan Grigg
07706 052495
Mike Cuming David Naghi
01622 738825 Mayor of Maidstone
01622 678410 MARDEN AND YALDING WARD
Denis Spooner
01622 631944 Annabelle Blackmore
01622 833299
FANT WARD
Val Springett David Burton
01622 737702 Keith Adkinson 07590 229910
01622 201976
Steve McLoughlin
BOUGHTON MONCHELSEA Matt Boughton 07711 565489
AND CHART SUTTON WARD 07795 192042
Steve Munford NORTH DOWNS WARD
Paul Harper
01622 741310 Leader of the Labour Group Patrik Garten
01622 763895 01622 807907
BOXLEY WARD
Bob Hinder HARRIETSHAM AND LENHAM WARD NORTH WARD
01634 61579
Janetta Sams Tony Harwood
Malcolm Greer 01622 677578
01634 862876 01622 859412
Tom Sams Michelle Hastie
Wendy Hinder 07729 573367
01634 861579 01622 859412
Rob Field
BRIDGE WARD 07817 671521
HEADCORN WARD
Georgia Harvey
07717 448878 Shellina Prendergast PARK WOOD WARD
Jonathan Purle Matt Burton
Martin Round 07793 243462
01622 807060 01622 890276
Daniel Rose
07706 608642
COXHEATH AND HUNTON WARD HEATH WARD
Emily Fermor SHEPWAY NORTH WARD
Bryan Vizzard
07809 472788 07957 442994 Alan Bartlett
Lottie Parfitt-Reid Ashleigh Kimmance 07826 526719
01622 820754 07709143597
Christopher Garland
Richard Webb 07903 113571
01622 745716

20
 Marion Ring SERVICE COMMITTEES There are 55 Councillors:
Deputy Mayor of Maidstone Conservatives 25
01622 686492 Policy and Resources
Chairman: Martin Cox Liberal Democrats 20
Vice Chairman: John Perry
SHEPWAY SOUTH WARD Communities, Housing and Environment Labour 3
Chairman: Derek Mortimer Independent Group 4
Eddie Powell Vice Chairman: Eddie Powell
Leader of the Independent Independent Maidstone 2
Maidstone Group Heritage, Culture and Leisure
01622 851983 Chairman: Paul Harper
Vice Chairman: Fran Wilson Independent 1
Malcom McKay Strategic Planning, Sustainability and Transport STON
E
01622 862472 Chairman: David Burton MEET YOUR NEW COUNCILLORS
MAID REAT
IS G

Vice Chairman: Susan Grigg

SOUTH WARD Alan Bartlett
OTHER COMMITTEES SHEPWAY NORTH
Brian Clark
07963 757767 Planning
Chairman: Clive English Bob Hinder
Derek Mortimer Vice Chairman: Martin Round BOXLEY
07825 916930
Licensing
Paul Wilby Chairman: Denise Joy
07949 769276 Vice Chairman: Wendy Hinder Ashleigh Kimmance
Employment HEATH
Chairman: Marion Ring
STAPLEHURST WARD Vice Chairman: Susan Grigg
Malcolm McKay
Louise Brice Audit, Governance and Standards SHEPWAY SOUTH
01580 892141 Chairman: Steve McLoughlin
Vice Chairman: Georgia Harvey
John Perry Democracy Lottie Parfitt-Reid
Leader of the Conservative Group Chairman: Fran Wilson
07770 734741 COXHEATH & HUNTON
Vice Chairman: Fay Gooch
Cobtree Manor Estate Charity
SUTTON VALENCE AND Chairman: Steve McLoughlin Jonathan Purle
LANGLEY WARD Vice Chairman: Martin Cox BRIDGE
Paulina Stockell Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment
01622 842508 Museum Trust Daniel Rose
Chairman: Martin Round
Vice Chairman: Fran Wilson
PARKWOOD

RECRUITING OPPORTUNITY!
Do you know the borough well? company who are used to the Maidstone area.

Can you work flexibly? Work will involve door knocking and regular
contact with residents so a friendly, yet
We are looking to recruit a number of professional disposition is essential.
canvassers to help register residents who
Successful applicants must be prepared to work
live in the borough and are eligible to vote increased hours during the Annual Canvass of the
in the UK Elections. Register (July-November).
The ideal person for the role will be able to: Salary: £8.36 per hour with a further £1.50
• Work daily for every form collected at the door. Mileage
(late afternoons, early evenings and weekends) allowance is also paid at 45p.
• Have the use of their own vehicle Interested? Apply by 5th September 2018 at:
We would especially welcome applications from www.maidstone.gov.uk/counciljobs
anyone currently employed by a delivery or utilities and search ‘Canvasser’

21
 His Worshipfulness will be supporting
four charities during his term.
WEST KENT BEFRIENDING SERVICE

A WARM A project of Age

UK Maidstone, the

WELCOME
Befriending Service
is the vision of one
employee Wendy
TO OUR NEW Pfeiffer, who aims
to offer lonely or

MAYOR isolated residents

the chance to be
paired with a local
companion.
In May, Councillor David Naghi took up the mantle as the new www.westkentbefriendingservice.org.uk
Mayor of Maidstone for the year ahead. Of the role, he said:

“It’s an honour and a privilege to have been elected as the
Mayor of Maidstone and I’m having a great time.
In the first few weeks I have met some extraordinary
people who are doing so much to make Maidstone a
great place. A lot of their efforts go unnoticed so it’s great
for me to have the opportunity to meet them and thank
them for all they do.
THE PRINCESS PROJECT
A Christian charity aimed at supporting
mothers, the service offers mum2mum
befriending for vulnerable young parents,
prayer meetings and coffee mornings, and
swapping events to recycle essential items
such as clothing, books and toys.
www.princessproject.co.uk

During my mayoral year, I want to champion local

businesses, rural and urban, as well as our great asset
the River Medway.
I am keen to celebrate and promote Maidstone‘s status as
the business capital of Kent. From a thriving town centre
to a vibrant rural economy, our borough continues to go
from strength to strength.
The river has been a passion of mine for some time and
I’m delighted that in the last 18 months to two years
there has been significant investment, which has greatly
enhanced somewhere that means so much to so many.
I am proud to be supporting the Maidstone Boat
Gathering on Saturday 28th July and hope to see many
boats lining the river throughout the town centre.
I look forward to meeting as many of you as I can over
the next few months.”
THE MAIDSTONE SEA CADETS
Using activities on both water and land, the
Maidstone branch of the Sea Cadets aims to
inspire confidence and discipline in young
people through a love of the outdoors and
naval training.
www.sea-cadets.org/maidstone
SNOWFLAKES
Snowflakes sessions are aimed at primary
school aged children to help develop their
mental health awareness and equip them
with skills for good mental health throughout
their lives.
www.marcusniblett.com/snowflakes

TONE
During the Mayor-making ceremony, it was also
I D S
announced that former Mayor, Councillor Malcolm Greer,
MA AT
E
had raised £100,000 for charity over the course of the
previous twelve months. IS GR

22
 APPLYFOR
NOW THIS
SEPTEMBER

CHE C K O U T O UR PRO GR A MME S

& APPLY ONL INE TODAY !

www.midkent.ac.uk
#SortedForSeptember
A MULTICULTURAL CELEBRATION OF FOOD & MUSIC

MOTE PARK, MAIDSTONE

25-27 AUGUST 2018
FREE ENTRY, FOOD & DRINK, LIVE MUSIC,
WORKSHOPS, KIDS AREA
FACEB OO K. CO M/ SHEM O M E DJA M O

MUSIC LINE-UP
e IMARHAN [AG] e YAMA WARASHI [UK/JN]
e MR RAOUL K [DE/CI] e ESTELLE MEY [UK]
e ICHI [JN] e GASPER NALI [MW]
e AADAE [UK]