Dear All,
After a wet day in the bay it is time for my latest update.
I started last week with my quarterly visit to the Christians Together in Torquay Prayer Breakfast at Central Church. It is always a welcome chance to reflect on what has happened, plus what local Churches may wish to focus on in their prayers. Given recent news it was good to reflect on the choices ahead for our country before the next time I will speak to them in September.
Later in the day I headed over to Palace Avenue Methodist Church for the Summer Bazaar. Not only was there a chance to enjoy some delicious cakes and a bacon roll, I was also asked to pull the first ticket out for the Raffle. The Winner? Cllr Ian Doggett.
After this I headed down to the Paignton Seafront for my personal highlight of the weekend, the display by the RAF Red Arrows at the Torbay Airshow. Their first public display of the season was a great success, with the Concorde and Tornado sections being my favourites. As in previous years I declined an invite to the VIP area in order to spend time visiting the many stalls featuring the military family and the groups which support them, including SSAFA and the Royal British Legion.
Sunday evening saw me head over to Roundham for a BBQ and Music Evening to celebrate 10 years of the Feline Network. It was good to meet so many people who have helped or benefited from the work of this local charity. This was followed by a late-night train to London ahead of a busy few days at Westminster. It was great to welcome Torquay Girls Grammar School on Monday for a visit and a few questions about current events.
I returned home late on Wednesday night so I could attend the event being held in Torquay yesterday to mark the 75th Anniversary of D-Day, more on this below.
Today I started with a visit to Curledge Street Academy in Paignton for a talk with the school council about my work and problems with parking outside the school. This was followed by a visit to the Devon School of English for a talk about UK Politics with six students seeking to improve their English to an advanced level.
Whilst many have an image of our local language schools being for teenagers or students, the Devon School of English has been developing its business teaching those who are at advanced levels of their careers. In this case six journalists from Finland who needed to be fluent in English to enhance their roles.
Finally I finished my week with another Advice Surgery, this time at Paignton Baptist Church in Winner St.
This week’s update is below and includes: Shedden Hall Fire, Corbyn Head Planning Decision, Singing For England, Cabinet Office Questions, R&R Bill, Police Officer Hurt in Torquay Knife Incident, £100m Investment Fund, Coastal Railway Consultation, State Visit, Windy Corner Update, Preston Pedestrian Crossing and finally…Last Shout For Fish Auction.
Shedden Hall Fire,
On Tuesday I appeared on BBC Spotlight following the significant fire at the Shedden Hall Hotel.
Thankfully there is no report of anyone being hurt thanks to the skill and bravery of the Firefighters who fought the blaze.
Regular update readers will recall I have frequently been in contact with Torbay Council about the dangers of derelict buildings and to push for action on the dreadful condition of the former Shedden Hall Hotel, which has caused long-running problems, including anti-social behaviour. Whilst some changes were made and limited demolition work undertaken, stronger action at an earlier stage could have prevented the predictable outcome of a large fire. You can read more about the fire on Devon Live by clicking here.
Planning Permission was granted some time ago for a development of apartments on this site. It is now time for the Council to do all it can to ensure this eyesore is finally dealt with.
Corbyn Head Planning Decision,
Controversial Plans for a new 152-bedroom hotel to be built on the site of the current Corbyn Head Hotel will be discussed by Torbay Council’s Planning Committee next week.
The proposal would include a roof-top bar, restaurant, public function rooms, spa facilities, and 101 spaces of car parking. The proposal would involve changes to the site’s access arrangements, with one of the two existing access points being closed off and replaced. Whilst few would disagree with the existing building being replaced, those living nearby have been concerned by the scale of the development and the impact on properties to the rear.
You can read the report Councillors will be considering by clicking here. and find the overall Agenda for the Meeting by clicking here. The meeting will be held in the Rosetor Room at the Riviera International Conference Centre on Monday 10thJune at 5:30pm. The meeting is held in public and residents interested in hearing the discussion are welcome to attend.
Singing For England,
The big kick off took place this evening for France 2019, the Women’s World Cup Tournament, with a massive Home Nations game due on Sunday with England playing Scotland.
After coming 3rd four years ago England’s Lionesses are hoping to go one stage further and lift the Trophy for the first time. Their first game mirrors the oldest international played in the Men’s Game, they will then go onto play Japan and Argentina.
England’s Games will be live on BBC One and the schedule is as follows:
Sunday 9th June, 5pm England V Scotland
Friday 14th June 5pm England V Argentina
Wednesday 19th June 8pm Japan vs England
Phil Neville has built a great team and taken them to a new level of performance. The team have trained hard and will wear the Three Lions with pride. It would be great to see them go the whole distance and I hope the whole bay will be cheering them along.
Cabinet Office Questions,
There was a bumper session at the Despatch Box in the House of Commons for me on Wednesday as Cabinet Office Ministers faced their regular grilling from MPs.
It was my second questions session in my role as interim Minister for the Constitution and my busiest yet. The draw which decides which MPs will ask a question had produced an order paper (Agenda) dominated by issues in my own brief. Whilst not uncommon to have two Questions back to back, it is rare for one Minister to be at the Box continuously for 19 minutes of a 30-minute session.
You can watch the lengthy grilling I received on issues ranging from Voter ID to a Cornish Tick Box on the Census Form by clicking here.
R&R Bill,
The major fire at Notre Dame has given added urgency to plans for the major refurbishment and restoration work needed at the Palace of Westminster.
Whilst the Palace of Westminster looks magnificent from the outside, much of its grand façade hides decades of neglect of its infrastructure. Ill thought out additions to its original build, such as voids and risers which run the whole length and height of the building making it very vulnerable to a fire spreading.
Many utilities running through the building have been placed on top of redundant pipework or wiring which cannot be removed. A tour of Parliament’s basement on Monday evening revealed a catalogue of problems, including piping which is believed to be lagged with some of the most dangerous forms of asbestos. Although on the positive side the Sewage Ejectors installed in 1888 are still in good working order, a tribute to some excellent Victorian Engineering.
A bill is currently being taken through the House of Commons to set up a body which will oversees the works to the building, which could cost billions of pounds. As one of the Ministers working on this bill I helped oversee the Committee Stage this week where a small group of MPs examined it in detail. This was my first experience of leading this type of session as a Minister.
You can watch the Committee Session by clicking here.
Police Officer Hurt in Torquay Knife Incident,
A man has been left in hospital and two people have been arrested after a violent incident involving knives in Torquay yesterday.
Police and ambulance services were called after an incident at an address in Warren Hill, Torquay. A police officer and a paramedic were both injured during the incident. I know all update readers will wish to send them their very best wishes for a speedy recovery.
You can read more on Devon Live by clicking here.
£100m Investment Fund,
An announcement this week that Torbay Council is drawing up options for investing £100m into projects in the bay has attracted some interest.
There are several sites such as Crossways in Paignton and the Old Laundry in Melville where some investment could help in dealing with longstanding eyesores. A loan from the Council agreed last year helped get the Torwood Street Development underway after many years of delay.
Given the money to fund this investment would be borrowed it is vital any investments are based on a sound business case, with clear protections for the taxpayer against being exposed to losses. Yet I will be happy to work constructively with the Council to see where this suggestion could work alongside bids for Government funding to make a difference.
Coastal Railway Consultation,
Major plans which will see a section of the Dawlish rail line moved out to sea will be revealed next week.
The scheme aims to ensure the rail line is better protected from cliff falls, land slips and damage caused by the sea during extreme weather. The work will centre on the 1.8km stretch of railway between Parsons Tunnel, near Holcombe, and Teignmouth. Having seen a confidential preview the plans are significant, very much needed and would be the biggest upgrade to this section of the line since Brunel built it.
From June 10, the detailed proposals will be published online and you can find them by clicking here. There will also be a public exhibition at The Windmill Centre, Pendennis Road on Friday 28th June from 1pm till 5pm.
State Visit,
This week saw the State Visit to the UK by the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump.
Whilst much has been made in the media of the protests, including a couple of disgraceful incidents which saw a small minority try to use intimidation to silence others, the general atmosphere around Parliament has been of peaceful protest by both sides.
Donald Trump is a controversial figure, there is no denying this, yet it was welcome to see the President of the United States pay the respects of the American People at the tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey ahead of events to mark D-Day.
State visits are not about individuals, but links between nations, with others such as President Xi of China having made one four years ago and most controversially of all Emperor Hirohito of Japan in 1971. I would have been interested to hear President Trump give a speech to Parliament, like President Xi did in 2015, sadly this did not take place.
Windy Corner Update,
Those driving to and from Brixham over recent weeks have had to negotiate the road works at Windy Corner.
Earlier today Torbay Council posted an update on them and I copy it below:
“The new road at Windy Corner isn’t open yet.
There’ve been some challenging ground conditions and we’ve unfortunately had to delay the opening. The site will be closed over the weekend and we want to make sure that we can react quickly if we experience any problems. The road closure will also help our contractor safely complete the new footpath. We’ll let you know as soon as possible when it will open.
Currently our overall programme remains on schedule, but as previously mentioned, short notice changes are often needed on construction projects like this. Whilst we try to complete each task on time there may be unforeseen situations which will alter or delay the programme.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during these works.”
Preston Pedestrian Crossing,
Earlier today I caught up with the organiser of a petition calling for a Pedestrian Crossing on the Torquay Road outside the Pembroke Surgery.
Over 1,400 people have now signed the petition and local Councillors for Preston are supporting the campaign. A response I received from Torbay Council indicates a business plan for the crossing has been drawn up, with a decision on funding for the works to be made.
This is welcome progress and will include any further news in future updates.
and finally…Last Shout For Fish Auction.
Ending on a different note the sound of Fish going up for Auction has rung round our Fishing Ports for centuries, but even this ancient tradition has been silenced by technology.
On Monday the very last ‘shout’ auction took place at Brixham Fish Market. A new online auction has been introduced, with an auctioneer controlling a digital clock and buyers simply pressing the spacebar on their keyboard to buy fish. Whilst efficient and needed in a modern era there is something special about hearing the sound, rather than the click, of a traditional auction.
You can watch a video of the last “shout” auction taking place on Devon Live by clicking here.
That is all for this week and enjoy your weekend.
Best wishes,
Kevin
| Events Now until 15th June – Imaginary Drawn with Light featuring works of Dr Martin Raskovsky. Artizan Gallery 7 Lucius Street Torquay TQ1 5UW for more information visit www.art-hub.co.uk/june19 Now until 31 August – Green Heart Project. As the Green Heart Project reaches completion in June visit this exhibition showcasing the projects’ fantastic achievements from the very start in 2015. Meeting point: Cockington Visitor Centre, Cockington Village TQ2 6XA – Price: FREE – Suitable for: All Ages – Exhibition open 10.00am – 4.00pm daily Saturday 8th June – ToADS Little Theatre – Special Charity Performance in support of local Mencap. Tickets at discount price of £8.50 available on the door or in advance from the Bright Bean Cafe near Preston Bus Shelter or contact colintipp@onetel.com Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th June 6pm -8pm Riviera Centre Voices From Our Community. A big fundraising event for Rowcroft Hospice,Torbay Young Carers and Compassion UK as students from St Cuthbert Mayne and other schools come together to bring you an inspiring evening of Music, Dance and Drama. Tickets £5 person. (Under 5s £1) Saturday 22nd June – 10:30am till 3pm Summer Fayre, All Saints Church, Babbacombe A range of stalls, refreshments and a bouncy castle will be on offer, with a dog show at 2:15pm. Saturday 22nd June 10am till 6pm – Torbay Armed Forces Day, Babbacombe Downs. There will be a parade,stalls,military stands,large marque,food, drink and entertainment all day. This is a wonderful family day so the people of Torbay can say a thank you to our serving members and the Veterans of the bay. Saturday 29th June. 10.30 am – 12 noon. Friends of Rowcroft Coffee Morning in aid of Rowcroft Hospice, at St. Matthias Church Centre, Babbacombe Road, Wellswood, Torquay TQ1 1HW. Admission £2.50. Cake stall, raffle, bring & buy. Everyone welcome. Every Wednesday night through to 25th September, BMAD, Paignton Esplanade, gates open 6pm. Raising funds for sick, disabled and under privileged children in the TQ area. (Not 31st July but Thursday 1st Aug due to Paignton Carnival.) Every Tuesday from 0930 till 1230. The Royal British Legion Office, 39 Church Street, Paignton is open. It is where ex members of the armed forces can receive help and advice. Appointments can be made by phoning 01803 555838, or email paignton.bcs@rbl.community. Every Tuesday & Wednesday (10:45 – 12 noon) – Lectures at Torquay Museum 529 Babbacombe Road, Torquay, Devon, TQ1 1HG – Lectures are free to TMSM,& cost £5 to Non-Members on the door! For more details click here. 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Quaker Meeting House in Torquay – Torbay Interfaith Forum meet. For more details Click here. PARKFIELD Youth services have a range of activities throughout the week for young people – click hereto see what’s on and when. Are you running an event in the Bay? I am always looking to promote local events, big or small. If you have an event coming up, please email kevin.foster.mp@parliament.uk so it can be included. Advice Surgeries Now until 31 August – Green Heart Project. As the Green Heart Project reaches completion in June visit this exhibition showcasing the projects’ fantastic achievements from the very start in 2015. Meeting point: Cockington Visitor Centre, Cockington Village TQ2 6XA – Price: FREE – Suitable for: All Ages – Exhibition open 10.00am – 4.00pm daily Saturday 8th June – ToADS Little Theatre – Special Charity Performance in support of local Mencap. Tickets at discount price of £8.50 available on the door or in advance from the Bright Bean Cafe near Preston Bus Shelter or contact colintipp@onetel.com Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th June 6pm -8pm Riviera Centre Voices From Our Community. A big fundraising event for Rowcroft Hospice,Torbay Young Carers and Compassion UK as students from St Cuthbert Mayne and other schools come together to bring you an inspiring evening of Music, Dance and Drama. Tickets £5 person. (Under 5s £1) Saturday 22nd June – 10:30am till 3pm Summer Fayre, All Saints Church, Babbacombe A range of stalls, refreshments and a bouncy castle will be on offer, with a dog show at 2:15pm. Saturday 22nd June 10am till 6pm – Torbay Armed Forces Day, Babbacombe Downs. There will be a parade,stalls,military stands,large marque,food, drink and entertainment all day. This is a wonderful family day so the people of Torbay can say a thank you to our serving members and the Veterans of the bay. Saturday 29th June. 10.30 am – 12 noon. Friends of Rowcroft Coffee Morning in aid of Rowcroft Hospice, at St. Matthias Church Centre, Babbacombe Road, Wellswood, Torquay TQ1 1HW. Admission £2.50. Cake stall, raffle, bring & buy. Everyone welcome. Every Wednesday night through to 25th September, BMAD, Paignton Esplanade, gates open 6pm. Raising funds for sick, disabled and under privileged children in the TQ area. (Not 31st July but Thursday 1st Aug due to Paignton Carnival.) Every Tuesday from 0930 till 1230. The Royal British Legion Office, 39 Church Street, Paignton is open. It is where ex members of the armed forces can receive help and advice. Appointments can be made by phoning 01803 555838, or email paignton.bcs@rbl.community. Every Tuesday & Wednesday (10:45 – 12 noon) – Lectures at Torquay Museum 529 Babbacombe Road, Torquay, Devon, TQ1 1HG – Lectures are free to TMSM,& cost £5 to Non-Members on the door! For more details click here. 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Quaker Meeting House in Torquay – Torbay Interfaith Forum meet. For more details Click here. PARKFIELD Youth services have a range of activities throughout the week for young people – click hereto see what’s on and when. Are you running an event in the Bay? I am always looking to promote local events, big or small. If you have an event coming up, please email kevin.foster.mp@parliament.uk so it can be included. |
Advice Surgeries
Friday 21st June, 3pm – 5pm @ AGE UK, 12 Dendy Road, Paignton TQ4 5DB
Saturday 29th June, 11am – 1pm @ Acorn Centre, Lummaton Cross, Torquay TQ2 8ET
Saturday 13th July, 11am – 1pm @ Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay TQ1 3DT
Friday 19th July, 3pm – 5pm @ Paignton Library, Gt. Western Road, Paignton TQ4 5AG
Friday 2nd August, 3pm – 5pm @ Paignton Baptist Church, Winner Street, Paignton TQ3 3BJ
Saturday 10th August, 11am – 1pm @ Torquay Library,
It’s always best to book a slot to guarantee being able to see me. Full details of how to do this are on my website or you can call my office on 01803 214989, Monday – Fridays, 9am – 5pm.
You can either email me at kevin@kevinjfoster.com or leave a message on 01803 214989 and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.
