Article For Folkestone Herald and Kentish Express

21 July 2005

Last Friday I attended a meeting between the Shepway Business Forum, which I chair, and representatives of Shepway District Council. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss ways in which the Council and the Forum can work together to improve the economic performance of the district. 

The importance of this objective is highlighted by data obtained from the Kent Economic Report of 2004.

This ranks Shepway as the lowest district in Kent for economic dynamism and the second lowest for economic performance. Yet Shepway is the fourth highest in terms of the knowledge economy – measured by technological, entrepreneurial and creative skills: the fifth highest in terms of the qualities of the local workforce and the second highest in terms of natural beauty, tranquillity and weather.

There is an obvious mismatch here between Shepway’s potential and achievement. We discussed at the meeting ways in which the Council could help the district achieve its potential.

One of the main bones of contention relates to the way in which the Council deals with planning applications – a source of much grievance and something we seem to do less well than other neighbouring districts. Improvements have been promised and I hope they come about.

The truth is that Shepway does have immense potential. The announcement of the high speed rail link came after the Kent Economic Report was completed. But it will not, by itself, revitalise the area. So we must make sure we are ready to take full advantage of the opportunities it will bring.

Later on Friday I went to the Kent Show at Detling. On a glorious day it was a joy to see so many people having such a good time. But of course there is a serious side here too. Farming plays a huge part in creating the countryside we know and love. We must always remember that when we talk about agricultural policy. Conserving the beauty of our countryside should always be one of our primary objectives.

On the way back I was caught in the congestion that followed a fatal accident on the M20. It was a very bad accident. But why did it take 21 hours to re-open the motorway? I am writing to the Chief Constable to find out.