For the time being this is what you need to know about Bonkersville and what is likely to happen in the next few weeks......
Just for the moment try to set aside all the conspiracy theories and stories of double dealing politicos and council executives. All of that stuff can be played with later.
What is happening now is sponsored by Central Government. It comes from the Treasury and the DCLG. (Department for Communities and Local Government). It's dressed up as a 'solution' to the housing crisis.
In March 2016 a document was published by DCLG titled "Locally-Led Garden Villages, Towns and Cities."
This document gives all the key background to what is happening, what is being 'offered' and what the rules are that local authorities bidding to have a slice of this cake have to do. One thing they're supposed to demonstrate as part of their submissions is a degree of"community support".
On 8 June 2016 the Cabinet of Shepway District Council is due to discuss whatever submission document has been assembled by then, intending to approve its submission to government.
The day before, Parish Town Councils will be given a preview of the 'plan' at a meeting in the Civic Centre: They will be expected to give local opinion and support to the proposal.
Some Parish Councils will be talking to parishioners to glean local views on this so that they can represent the wider view.
Just in case yours isn't one of those do make sure to write to them, or email them letting them know as clearly as possible your support or opposition to it, so that they can properly represent local opinion.
The information available to judge this is published on Shepway's website, and there is some excellent coverage and editorial comment in the Ashford Herald, and the Folkestone Herald in particular. Please buy or borrow a copy.
It is really important to realise that the chance to make your thoughts known is NOW. Please write or email (to be on record) to your Parish Council and Jenny Hollingsbee DO NOT DELAY - THIS IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT.
Without local support the rules say that government funding should not be so readily forthcoming.
Of course we know that there will be cheating and bending of the rules, but how we might deal with that comes later.
Should you wish to contact us for further information please email: sellindgeresidents@gmail.com
For now just make sure you let your Parish Council, and your District Councillors, know exactly what you think about it all.
S&DRA
