It's been a little over a week since England entered a third national lockdown as part of the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic that we've all come to know so well. Too soon to tell if the measures are working, but long enough for the side effects to bite. In some ways we appear … Continue reading Restocking our own shelves
'Thank heavens it's nearly over' comes the cry of the socially distanced masses all over the world who are looking forward to a better 2021. At least that's the conventional wisdom, and it's good to see hope abounds. Temper it, though, because we're not out of the woods yet, and there's more trouble to come … Continue reading New Year Message
The COVID-19 virus is just that: a virus. It's an indiscriminate microscopic parasite that relies on a host body to thrive and reproduce. Ruthlessly efficient and devoid of any emotion a virus does not care if you're fed up with it or not, and it doesn't give a toss about your opinions on how the … Continue reading Peace and goodwill toward all mankind
There's a maxim in politics: perception is reality. It's a way of saying that it doesn't matter what the reality is, the perception that people have is all that matters. It's true because people vote based on their perception, not based on actual facts. It's a warning I raised when the Borough Council's Executive Committee … Continue reading Redditch Town Centre Conservation Zone ‘at risk’ status
I wanted to report that I am in danger of being unable to fulfil one of my pre-election promises, which was to provide coding clubs for Church Hill residents. I have attempted to launch a scheme three times, but each one has not had a sufficient level of uptake to make them viable. Learning how … Continue reading Update on Coding Clubs
The planning application relating to a proposed Lidl supermarket on Batten's Drive is being heard by committee this week. Details can be seen on this link. Ref: 18/01049/FUL Back in 2018 I did a poll on here and spoke to local residents in the surrounding area (on the Church Hill side). Overall, the opinion I … Continue reading Update on Planning Application for possible Lidl on Batten’s Drive
In the spirit of my commitment to openness and transparency in the course of my public service to the people of Church Hill I will share my positions on certain topics from time to time and attempt to explain my reasoning when I approach certain issues. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) HMO is a term … Continue reading Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
Following the announcement of a new national lockdown during November I have started to make enquires about areas that fall under my portfolio of responsibilities at Redditch Borough Council. I'll update this thread as more information comes to light. PARKS These will remain open as they did last time - and just like last time … Continue reading Rolling Updates on Parks & Leisure Restrictions for November 2020
It’s not controversial to say that parents should feed their children. If they struggle we should help them, according to their own circumstances and to the level of help needed to restore them to their own capabilities. There isn’t a one size fits all solution I’m afraid. Socialists will argue for a nationalised solution, but … Continue reading A note on my charity work
Local Conservative members in Redditch have voted to select sitting Borough Councillors Craig Warhurst and Mike Rouse to fight the Redditch South division for the County Council elections being held in May 2021. Whilst the format of the election is unclear owing to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the government has indicated it is keen to … Continue reading Mike Rouse and Craig Warhurst selected to contest Redditch South at County Council Elections 2021
