This week marks the 70^th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II making her the longest serving monarch in British history.

It’s incredible to think that someone has devoted so much of their life to serve others and it is only right that celebrations should reflect that commitment.

I am delighted to see that we have already been able to commit funding for a number community events planned across the district – from 50s themed tea parties and festivals to the burying of time capsules.

Up to £500 is available for groups planning events through Rother District Council’s Queens Platinum Jubilee grant and while almost half the fund has been allocated, there is still time to make a bid via our website.

Before Covid Rother was awash with some amazing community events and it’s great to see these returning to our district, including Bexhill After Dark, an annual light arts festival in the town.

The event, run by 18 Hours on January 29, was very well supported by the community and brought to the town that sense of fun and celebration that has been lacking throughout much of the pandemic. 

This week, my Cabinet colleagues discussed the council’s draft budget for 2022/23 in light of the responses from our annual budget and council tax public consultation. The final decision will be made by full council later this month.

I am very grateful to all those who took the time to share their views with us and help ensure that the decisions Rother District Council makes reflect the priorities of our residents. 

It’s so important that residents feel their views are being represented, regardless of their political persuasion. As an Alliance we are committed to working with all parties and ensuring all voices are heard.

A review of seats on committees in light of changes to political groups at Rother, has confirmed that representation on our committees is fair.  This should give residents confidence that that their views will be fully considered with every decision we make.

While the important work on reducing the council’s carbon emissions continues, it’s important that we also help residents to make a difference.  With a growing number of electric vehicles on our roads, we considered the installation of charging points in our car parks at Monday’s Cabinet meeting.

This is an extremely complex issue as a significant amount of infrastructure has to be in place, but officers will be discussing options with providers who will bear the cost of installing equipment to allow charging points to be installed, and we hope to be able to move forward with this project.

Published: 16th February 2022