Autumn update from Dan Watkins, your Kent County Councillor
As your local councillor it’s been a busy time working on many projects to help the Bay:
A more accessible train station
Works continue on the platform bridge and lifts; I am regularly in contact with Network Rail and am pleased to report that they are on track to complete at the end of this year. This will make train travel much more accessible for elderly and disabled residents, as well as for families with buggies and bikes.
Improvements to Memorial Park
Upgrades to the children’s playground took place earlier this year, and in the coming months the tennis courts will be resurfaced. I was also happy to step in to get the pond’s water system fixed, so that water levels were restored in time for the model boat club’s Regatta!
A safer, quieter Herne Bay
Many residents are concerned about the speed of traffic on local roads, and the latest data shows the new 20mph zone is already helping to deliver safer streets. Where persistent speeding continues on certain streets, I am running a Community Speedwatch scheme with residents and councillors, working with the police to enforce the speed limit. Please contact me if you would like to volunteer.
Supporting local charities
Voluntary organisations play a crucial role in helping our more vulnerable and elderly residents live happier, healthier lives, so I’ve been supporting a number of community groups to extend their work, such as East Kent Mencap, Age UK, Reculver and Beltinge Memorial Hall, Happy Here, and The Salvation Army.
Brightening the Bay
I want visitors to the Bay to have a fantastic first impression, so I’ve been able to arrange a new planter at the entrance to Beltinge ward, and am also working with Herne Bay in Bloom on upgrades to the Sea Street roundabout and the planted area near the Neptune car park on the seafront. Thanks as well to the stalwart bunch of volunteers who hold litter picks around the town and on the beach.
As ever, if you need my help please get in touch: [email protected] or you can find me on Facebook by searching for 'Dan Watkins, Herne Bay Councillor'.
