At this time of year the new civic year begins, and local councils and hold their annual council meeting. It seems an appropriate occasion to look back at what has been achieved during the past year.

Local Plan
Last summer the council made the decision not to proceed with the version of the local plan published in early 2021 under regulation 19. Instead, a further “Issues and Preferred Options” consultation was undertaken under regulation 18 in November last year. The results of new traffic modelling showed significant impacts at some key junctions. It was concluded that there are no obvious development strategies that could deliver the “local
housing need” number of new homes without adversely affecting transport corridors. A new call for sites has been made and further traffic modelling will be required as the council must leave no stone unturned in its attempt to deliver the local housing need required by Government. A new strategy will be developed based on these consultations and the evidence collected. It is anticipated that a further Regulation 19 consultation will take place in the autumn.

Affordable Homes
The coalition administration has increased the number of affordable homes being delivered by developers. The Council has set up a housing company – Rainbow Homes – that is wholly owned by Swale Borough Council, so that, for the first time in many years, the council can start building much-needed homes for social rent. The first schemes will be flats built on sites owned by the council in Sittingbourne.

Healthier lifestyles and active travel
This year the council has been renovating play areas across the borough. In Boughton, Swale Borough Council financed outdoor gym equipment located behind the village hall. An active travel coordinator has been appointed to develop plans for better facilities of walking and cycling across the borough. SBC funded the development of a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan delivered by Faversham Town Council. Work is now starting on cycle routes between Faversham and the surrounding villages. Clear plans will enable the council to take advantage of funding opportunities from Government as they become available.

Action on the Climate an Ecological Emergency.
Action has continued to reduce carbon emissions in Swale, especially from the council’s operations. Masters House in Sheerness is undergoing a major re-fit including leading energy-saving measures. Contractors have just been engaged to fit double glazing and extra insulation to make Swale House more energy-efficient. SBC has set up a car club in Faversham, which will enable some residents to forgo the expense of running a car, while still providing low-cost access for journeys when a car is essential. SBC has also funded a bike hire scheme delivered by Faversham Town Council. Over 5,000 trees have been planted by SBC in the last year. Another 6,000 will be planted in the autumn. A new grounds maintenance contract will see use of electric power tools, electric vehicles and reduced use of pesticides in our green spaces.

Tim Valentine

TimValentine@swale.gov.uk

Alastair Gould

AlastairGould@swale.gov.uk

Swale Borough Councillors for Boughton & Courtenay