Councillor Jean Ashworth has hit out at the government's intention to close thousands of post offices saying: "I feel there is far too much government interference in local issues and the removal of local services, the Borough of Rochdale has already lost more than enough vital services".
An alarming report from the Healthcare Commission today found that "significant failings" in infection control at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells trust allowed Clostridium Difficile to spread on wards and ultimately kill patients. The report found 21 people had definitely been died from C-Diff, with 69 more "probable" cases and 1,000 patients affected by the outbreak which occurred during 2004 to 2006. The Commission discovered that managers had placed financial targets - set by the government - ahead of safety protocol. Police in Kent are considering launching criminal proceedings against the trust, which could see them charged for murder, manslaughter or breaches of health and safety legislation.
Folkestone Harvey Central Town Councillor Gary Fuller has learned that Sandgate Road in to Folkestone from Hythe will be closed for around 3 weeks. The closure is likely to cause significant traffic problems in the area, and lead to the diversion and disruption of bus services.
Local MP, Tim Farron has expressed his dismay today at the Chancellor lowering the rate of Capital Gains Tax from 40% to 18%, which could lead to yet more investment in property as second homes in the area. Mr Farron, who earlier in the week had issued a demand to the Chancellor that something be done to curb second home ownership was astonished at the revelation.
Tim Farron, Liberal Democrat MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Committee on Hill Farming has today welcomed the announcement from DEFRA the intention that the foot and mouth protection zone be lifted in Surrey, but also issued a word of caution.
JUDGEMENT on a planning application for a block of eight flats in Buckhurst Hill has been deferred after councillors spoke of their concern about potential traffic problems.