Public speaking at Council meetings

Questions from Councillors

Question from Councillor Wing to Councillor Duckworth:

With spring and summer fast approaching residents, visitors and tennis clubs are gearing up for another season of playing and coaching tennis. Indeed, the courts local to me have been in operation for many weeks, with opportunities especially for young people and children to play and access coaching. It was also great to see these courts undergo a deep clean to keep the playing surface well maintained, safe and in excellent condition. Please could you confirm when we will see the other courts in Thanet that benefited from the same LTA grant to refurbish them, will be managed in a manner that will provide similar, high quality recreational, leisure and coaching benefits?

Response to follow

Questions from Press and public

Question from Ms McCourt to Councillor Whitehead

Over predicted housing targets and the risks of homes built here being passed onto London Boroughs, looking to house their residents, has been a serious concern for local groups and politicians in Thanet. Canterbury City Council bore the consequences of this occurring several years ago. Laws have been put in place to stop this practice, we have been told. Approximately two years ago, our group met with council officers and cabinet members and raised these very concerns. A Lewisham Council worker had advised me that a loophole had been found but officers stated it was a ‘myth’.

It has not gone unnoticed that 800 homes in Haine Road have recently been sold, apparently in bulk. This sale suggests our fears were not unfounded.

How many of these homes in Haine Road have been ‘let’ to London Councils or their agents, and what “financial costs” will we face in the future?

Response to follow

Question from Ms Jayne Rainey to Councillor Albon

Could the council please put signs at the entrance of Hartsdown park signs of Hartsdown park as by laws are being ignored regarding:
horse riding, Quad bikes and Bicycles and E scooters
As previous signs have been removed or defaced

Response to follow

Question from Barbara Palmer to Councillor Albon

Good evening. We’re sure Council shares the concerns of users of Walpole tidal pool which has been out of action since early January. We have seen that some repairs have been carried out to the surface of the walls, but what is the timetable for replacing the sluices and reopening the pool? Following the various repairs in 2023 a major survey was planned in 2024 and what were the findings? Further significant deterioration has occurred subsequently, including extensive leaks. The importance of maintaining the tidal pool cannot be under-estimated, also related to the success of extensive plans for the café etc. What detailed, formal programme is now in place to address all repairs, including the promenade etc., effective planned maintenance, and who is responsible for overseeing this work? This is vital to the integrity of the pool and associated facilities so access is ensured for the long term. Thank you.

Response to follow

Question from Mr Tim Knibb to Councillor Whitehead

Thank you for supporting the campaign for the Scenic Railway. However, I have been fobbed off on several occasions concerning the Grade Two listed Compton Noterman Cinema Organ in the cinema , which lies in a state of disrepair. I have answers to an FOi that I can provide that would appal any member here. I have asked a question in this chamber that was not answered properly. Is our Cinema Organ going to be continued to be ignored and pushed out the back door to the scrapyard? Out of sight, out of mind. Another heritage asset gone like the balcony outside the old Kent Hotel. I would appreciate an answer that is not a pro forma from the unelected officers.

Response to follow