Kent on Sunday (East), January 2, 2011

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Published by Telephone:[phone] IT’S WHAT SUNDAYS ARE ALL ABOUT No.432 January 2,2011
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INSIDE MAKE A FRESH START IN OUR TIME FOR CHANGE SUPPLEMENT
ACADEMIES ARE
PUSHING KCC TO
‘TIPPING POINT’
Special needs services under threat
as switch to academies continues
COUNTY Hall could be By MARIJKE COX in KCC’s budget for those that chose
forced to stop providing cru- not to make the move.
Those converting to academies are
cial support to traditional with special needs – could be much given more independence and respon-
council-run schools sooner sooner than people expected. sibility – despite remaining publicly
than originally thought, “I have made an inquiry into when funded – including the ability to set
the tip point could be – this is their own pay for staff,greater control
unions have warned. the point when the local authority of their budget and freedom from the
We’re
Although the rate at which schools can no longer continue to offer local National Curriculum.
are opting for academy status remains education services because schools do They can also choose to buy services,
at a steady pace,almost a third of sec- not depend on the council anymore,” such as special needs support,away
ondaries have become or are in the he said. from KCC.
process of breaking away from local “I think this will be sooner than ini- A spokeswoman from the
authority control to become academies. tially thought – it could be in the next Association of Teachers and Lecturers in the
This includes those that were year or 18 months.” said some authorities had already
changed under the Labour Govern- When the academies bill was intro- stopped providing school support.
ment, a system that saw ‘failing’ duced, Kent County Council leader “The more schools that become
schools – those unable to meet the 30 Paul Carter openly stated he would academies the less money councils get
per cent A*-C GCSE target – turned support the programme under the because the funds go straight to the movies
into academies. Coalition and encouraged all second- school,which can buy its services else-
Secretary of the Kent branch of the aries to apply so to create a “level play- where,”she said. SEE INSIDE FOR
National Union of Teachers, John ing field”. “It becomes uneconomic for the local THE FULL STORY
Walder, said the point where KCC But he stressed the more schools authority to continue providing school
would have to stop providing school that broke away from local authority services when there are just a few
support services – such as for children control,the less money there would be CONTINUED ON PAGE TWO
22I newsWEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport ADVERTISING(cid:2)01303 817000
Calls for self-service
Norfolkline is now
DFDS SEAWAYS
libraries to be shelved
Dover - France
from £19*
car + 4 each way
£1.5m project will see 83 full-time jobs axed
Part of DFDS Seaways
* Includes all surcharges and taxes. See website for details and full terms and conditions. By MARIJKE COX
Kent today [email protected]
A UNION has slammed plans
for self-service tills in libraries,
4 claiming it will destroy what is
3 already a diminishing service.
5 The controversial changes will see visitors
to about 30 of the county’s libraries checking
4 4 books in and out themselves and paying their
own fines on self-issue terminals.
Kent County Council (KCC) said the
£1.5 million project,for which costs will be
3 covered within 18 months,will be more effi-
cient and cost-effective than the current sys-
tem,saving £1m a year.
TODAY:Itwillbeadullbutmainlydrydaywithcloudy But Zoe Van Dyke, regional organiser for
skiesandperhapsjustalittledrizzleattimes.Thereis Unison,said the move will have a detrimental
goingtobeagentlenorth-westerlybreeze.Maxtemp impact on what is already a flagging service. NOVEL APPROACH: KCC’s plans will be more cost-efficient, saving the authority £1m a year
3-6C(37-43F).TONIGHT:Cloudyforatime,butclear “We’ve seen significant reductions over the
spellswilldeveloplater.Acoldnight.Mintemp-2to last five years with seniority of staff being afford to buy books and instead use the free tags allowing people to issue and return
1C(28-34F). removed and less experienced staff brought library service may suffer,causing education items,pay fines and manage their accounts
AroundBritain in,”she said. standards to diminish. themselves.
“It looks as though KCC are continuing to “This is taking away something central to the The council argued it would mean staff
°C °F °C°F remove the levels of support for visitors who community and ordinary people,”she added. spending less time carrying out routine tasks,
Aberdeen sleet 4 39 London cloudy 5 41 may need help and advice about what book As part of the savings,83 full-time posts and more time helping customers face-to-face.
Belfast cloudy 5 41 Liverpool cloudy 5 41 they want and how to find it. will be removed from the current structure. KCC cabinet member for community serv-
Birminghamcloudy 4 39 Manchester fair 4 39 “Not everybody is computer literate and I A KCC spokeswoman said many of these ices Cllr Mike Hill said:“Self-issue technolo-
B’mouth cloudy 4 39 Newcastle fair 3 37
think there will be big implications,especial- are already vacant and others will be covered gy will help us to be more efficient and cost
Bristol fair 4 39 Norwich cloudy 4 39
Cardiff cloudy 6 43 Oxford cloudy 4 39 ly in outlying areas of the county.” by retirement or voluntary redundancies. effective while maintaining an excellent level
Cork cloudy 5 41 Southsea cloudy 5 41 Ms Van Dyke said elderly people are being The authority,which is looking to put the of service to our customers.”
Edinburgh fair 3 37 S’hampton cloudy 4 39 forced to embrace new ideas of technology and self-service tills in between April 2011 and Ms Van Dyke added: “I think they are
Glasgow fair 5 41 Southport fair 5 41 could struggle with the new system,eventual- March 2012,said the new systems would be removing a vital service from people who
IsleofMan fair 6 43 Swansea fair 6 43 ly putting them off from using libraries. easy to use. need it.People who use libraries don’t just
Leeds fair 3 37 Torquay cloudy 5 41 She also said people who are unable to All books and DVDs will have electronic need a book off the shelf.”
Sun&moon
Sunrise 8.02am Sunset 3.57pm Lightinguptimes: ‘KCC is well placed to deliver this vision’
Moonrise6.29am Moonset 2.06pm 3.57pmto8.02am
HighTides
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE port the academies in both their day-to-day “Local authorities will also have a role in
today tomorrow using them.I couldn’t say when each council operations and also at a strategic level.They bringing together all services for children in
ht(m) ht(m) ht(m) ht(m) would stop,but when it becomes uneconomic will be able to buy back these services as from an area so that every child is ready and able
Dover 09.15 6.1 21.486.1 10.08 6.2 22.336.3 that’s when it will happen – for some that the beginning of next term. to benefit from high-quality teaching in excel-
Margate 10.10 4.4 22.424.3 11.05 4.5 23.284.5 could be quite soon.” “I am confident our highly-qualified teams lent schools and also to market school
StMary’s 02.49 5.1 15.185.0 03.42 5.3 16.075.2 But KCC cabinet member for children,fam- with local knowledge will be valued by acad- improvement services,”she said.
Weekahead ilies and education,Cllr Sarah Hohler said emies and welcome the opportunity to mar- “KCC is well placed to deliver this vision.”
the council is continuing to work with all ket test our services.” Gravesend-based independent education
schools,regardless of their status. Cllr Hohler said a recent White Paper – The advisor Peter Read said an educational model
monday thursday
“Although approximately one-third of sec- Importance of Teaching – outlined a changing looking at what was best for the children
Sunnyspells. Sunnyspells. ondary schools have converted to academy role for local authorities as champions of should be used rather than a business model.
max4C min0C max6C min1C status,very few primary schools are applying children and parents, ensuring the school He added:“Children with special needs,for
at this stage,”she said. system works for every family and challenges example,could suffer because there may not be
tuesday friday “We are developing services that will sup- every school to do the best for local people. proper provision made for them in the system.”
Fairlycloudy. Rathercloudy.
max5C min1C max6C min0C
wednesday saturday
Sunnyintervals. Afairday.
max5C min1C max5C min0C
• EDITOR: Ian Patel
• ADDRESS:Apple Barn, Smeeth, Kent TN25 6SS.
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© 2011 KENT ON SUNDAY.
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EDITORIAL(cid:2)01303 817100 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport WEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011news I 3
Fears switch to Pembury will lead to downgrading of Maidstone Hospital Turkish boat blaze
claims sailor’s life
County town maternity
A SEAMAN died after being rescued from a
burning ship on the Channel.
The man was one of three crew members
flown to the Queen Elizabeth the Queen
Mother Hospital, in Margate, by an RAF
services to be ditched helicopter on Christmas Eve after an engine
room caught fire on a Turkish cargo vessel.
It is thought the two surviving sailors – who
remain in a critical condition – suffered smoke
inhalation and burns.
By JENNA PUDELEK Move to allow dogs
[email protected]
back into harbour
CAMPAIGNERS have lost their
battle to save maternity services STRINGENT controls banning dogs from a
harbour due to the threat of rabies near UK
at Maidstone Hospital after the borders are being removed.
Health Secretary approved con- Councillors at Thanet District Council
troversial plans to move them to agreed that an unpopular by-law,introduced
in 1994 to stop people bringing dogs to
Pembury. Ramsgate harbour,should be repealed.
Andrew Lansley wrote to NHS West Kent It was brought in when the threat of rabies,
and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS a potentially fatal virus commonly transmit-
Trust to reveal his decision. ted by dogs,was more common.
Campaigners in Maidstone fear it will lead The by-law removal process is expected to
to a downgrading of their hospital and take between three and six months.
accused the Government of trying to bury
RELOCATION: Maternity services will be moved from Maidstone to Pembury (above)
the news in the Christmas festivities. MP joins pack in bid
Dr Paul Hobday, British Medical own fundamental criterion for local GP sup- there are still concerns about the changes,and
Association (BMA) spokesman for Kent and port in hospital reconfiguration decisions. we are committed to continuing to address
to retain hunting ban
a leading opponent of the plans,said:“The “The evidence of local GP opposition is these and give local people the confidence they
Health Secretary has cynically tried to bury overwhelming in this case. need in their women and children’s services.”
his illogical decision to close Maidstone’s “The decision also runs contrary to the Glenn Douglas, chief executive of the ONE of Kent’s newest MPs is among a group
Maternity unit in the Christmas festivities White Paper placing GPs at the centre of hospital trust,said the changes would give of rebel Tories who could oppose a repeal of the
as he faces embarrassment otherwise by our NHS, throwing the entire initiative pregnant women in Maidstone new choices hunting ban.
totally ignoring overwhelming GP and into doubt. about where to give birth. Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch
patient opinion. “I am considering the position with Kent He added:“These important changes make backed a statement saying “this government
Exposed County Council and the Maidstone Action for the very best use of the skills and expertise has far more important things to do than
Services in Hospital [MASH] campaign. that exist within our clinical teams for spending time on bringing back cruelty to
“He now needs to answer how this is “I have also asked Mr Lansley to delay any patients and maintain the highest and safest animals for sport”.
consistent with his White Paper putting implementation until such time as the GPs standards of care for women and children She is one of 22 Tories and 42 Lib Dems
GPs in charge of commissioning and are in a position to review the situation throughout the south of west Kent. against a repeal of the ban on hunting with
promising patients ‘no decision about me themselves as NHS commissioners.” “The Secretary of State has agreed the dogs, according to a survey by the League
without me’. Mr Lansley gave his final approval after a plans should go ahead,and his decision is against Cruel Sports.
“The main ideas in his reforms have fallen report from NHS South East Coast, the based on assurances from local and national Earlier this year Prime Minister David
at the first hurdle and are exposed for what strategic health authority that covers Kent, experts. We can now move forward with Cameron promised he would give a free vote
they really are – continued break-up and Surrey and Sussex,which explored views of clarity and confidence.” on the law.
continued privatisation of our NHS.” residents and GPs.
Consultant-led maternity services and The west Kent NHS trusts said they
inpatient paediatric services will now be understood that a number of local people SSAALLEE NNOOWW OONN
moved to the state-of-the-art,private finance and doctors were still concerned about
initiative (PFI) hospital at Pembury. the changes, and would continue to
But protesters including Maidstone GPs, engage with those affected up to and
residents and politicians, have pledged to beyond the opening of the £225 million
continue opposing the move. hospital in September.
Maidstone MP Helen Grant (Con) said: Marion Dinwoodie, the primary care
“He [Lansley) has completely ignored his trust’s chief executive,said:“We recognise MMoonnttaannaa
JJuuddggee VViissttaa
MMootthheerr && CChhiilldd
Health trusts’ review bad 33 ppiieeccee ssttaaiinnlleessss sstteeeell
fflloooorr llaammpp
ddrraaiinniinngg lliidd ssaauucceeppaann sseett
UUssuuaall pprriiccee ££9999 UUssuuaallllyy ££113300
SSaallee pprriiccee SSaallee pprriiccee
news for birthing centres ££4499 ££4499..9999
A RADICAL overhaul of maternity services said it was not an easy decision to make.
in east Kent is being planned involving clo- “We have taken into account these staff
CCrroocckk PPoott
sures of birthing centres at three hospitals. shortages and our priority is that the high- LLee CCrreeuusseett
It forms part of a five-month review by est possible standards of safety continue to UUssuuaall pprriiccee ££3399..9999
East Kent Hospitals University NHS be applied to mothers giving birth and we SSaallee pprriiccee kkeettttlleess
Foundation Trust (EKHUFT) and NHS are not prepared to take any risks,”he said. ££1199..9999 UUssuuaall pprriiccee ££5599..9999
Eastern and Coastal Kent,looking into the “East Kent is extremely proud of the wide SSaallee pprriiccee
provision of care. choice of birthing options we offer to moth- ££3399..9999
There are currently two midwife-led birth ers and we intend to continue offering as
centres for low-risk births in Dover and much choice as possible,as long as we can
Canterbury, one midwife-led unit at provide the high level of support necessary
Ashford’s William Harvey Hospital, and to ensure these choices are safe for mothers
another due to be opened at the QEQM hos- and their babies.”
pital in Margate. Patients and the public will be invited to
There are also consultant-led obstetric give their views during the review.
units at Ashford and Margate. NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent’s director
But staff shortages have forced health lead for maternity services Hazel Carpenter
chiefs to close the Dover Birthing Centre said the trust had a duty to ensure the
at Buckland Hospital until January, needs of pregnant women were met.
although it will remain open for other “A rising birth rate requires increasing CCaanntteerrbbuurryy’’ss IInnddeeppeennddeenntt
services. levels of care,”she said.
The Canterbury birthing centre will “Staffing units round the clock with the DDeeppaarrttmmeenntt SSttoorree
suspend services in January and the right level of midwifery skills can be difficult
recently completed midwife-led unit at – so the reason for this review is to ensure 4477 HHiigghh SSttrreeeett,, CCaanntteerrbbuurryy,, CCTT11 22SSBB
Margate will stay closed while the review we can rise to the challenge and continue to
is under way. provide safe care and the level of choice 0011222277 445566775555 wwwwww..nnaassoonnss..ccoo..uukk
EKHUFT medical director,Neil Martin, mothers-to-be expect within our budget.” OOppeenn MMoonn -- SSaatt 99aamm -- 55..3300ppmm SSuunnddaayyss 1111aamm -- 55ppmm
44IS newsWEEKENDAINGJANUARY2, 2011L E www.kNentnews.co.uk foOr all the news anWd sport OADVNERTISING(cid:2)01303 817000
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EDITORIAL(cid:2)01303 817100 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport WEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011news I 5
School sports U-turn Boxing Day tragedy
A PEDESTRIAN was killed after a car lost
control and mounted a pavement.
The silver Mini Cooper was travelling along
the A28 Canterbury Road at Birchington on
‘not going anywhere’ Boxing Day when it collided with a man who
was on a footpath.
He was taken to Margate’s Queen Elizabeth
the Queen Mother hospital where he was pro-
nounced dead.
The female driver was treated for minor
injuries.
Coalition rethink won’t help after
TV licence warning
Olympics, says partnership chief
EMPLOYERS are being urged to get TV
licences after more than 1,000 businesses in
the UK were caught without one.
By MARIJKE COX the scheme in sports provision, was not TV Licensing warned companies that allow
enough. staff or customers to watch television at their
[email protected] “I work full time,five days a week,with premises over the holiday period needed to be
about 60 schools in the area I cover,”he said. correctly licensed or face prosecution.
A LEADING campaigner in “One day a week for each school – not Jon Shaw,Kent’s TV Licensing spokesman,
including primaries – just won’t work.Even said:“We have to take action against those
the schools sports dispute has with seven full-time competition managers who watch TV illegally and businesses that
accused Government of mislead- in Kent there is so much work to do. try to get away with it might find the price
ing the public over its U-turn of “Government is expecting a PE teacher to of being caught higher than just a fine of up to
take that over in each school.They are mis- £1,000.”
the scheme. leading people into thinking there has been Visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk/business for
Peter La Rossignol,competition manager some sort of U-turn when actually it’s not details on how to obtain a licence.
for school sports partnerships (SSP) in Kent, going to keep competitive sport up in schools.
said the move by Whitehall was a “small ges- “It’s a bit of a cop out.” Funds to stem flood
ture”which would not go far enough in pro- Mr La Rossignol said he and the other
moting competitive sport within schools. competition managers in Kent would lose
“The public think there has been a big their jobs next year and admitted he did not TWO councils have been given a £4.4 million
U-turn,but it’s not really going to go any- think this would change. share of £21m in grants to manage flood risk.
where,”he said.“After the Olympics there “I’m trying to keep up the campaign,but I Bexley Council and the London Borough of
will be nothing in schools.” just think Government has made people Bromley will receive funding for new responsi-
Education Secretary Michael Gove sparked believe they are keeping the sports in bilities such as risk management plans.
uproar in October with his announcement schools going. Bromley will receive £141,600 in 2010-11
that the entire £162 million funding for school “After the Olympics though there will be followed by an annual payment of £252,700
sports partnerships would be abolished. nothing – it will only get worse.” from 2012-13.Bexley will receive £130,700 in
Casualties inM rm Lida- KReonsst,ignAols,hwfohrod ,woSrhkse pipne ys chaoonlds 20E1n0v-1ir1o nanmde n£t2 0S3e,5cr0e0t athrye reCaafrteorli.ne Spelman
The globally-acclaimed programme encour- Sittingbourne,said the number of students U-TURN: School Sports Partnerships were said:“This money will help local flood authori-
ages competitive opportunities within schools doing sport each week had risen from 20 per set to be abolished as part of spending cuts ties identify and deal with the risk of flooding.”
and has seen the number of Kent students cent to 50 per cent in his area and just
taking part in sport twice a week soar. recently 850 pupils from 38 different schools
But it became one of Government’s many ran in a cross-country event at Leeds Castle. We pay the
casualties in the spending cuts. Last month, members of the SSP in
This week, however, after strong opposi- Thanet launched a campaign to fight
tion from schools,sports clubs and sporting against the funding cut.
legends including Olympic diving sensation Jason Jones, head of PE at Hartsdown
Tom Daley and heptathlon star Denise Technology College in Margate,said:“I have
Lewis,Mr Gove announced £65m of funding no doubt that removing the partnership pro- VAT!
to promote competitive sports in schools gramme,which is admired around the world,
over the next three years. will dramatically affect future participation
He also said a further £47m would be rates in all types of sport around the UK.
made available to allow SSPs – of which “The impact to the health and well being of
there are 15 in Kent – to continue to the end young people will be marked.”
of the academic year in 2011. Sports and Olympics minister and MP for
But Mr La Rossignol said the £65m,which Faversham and Mid-Kent,Hugh Robertson,
will allow every secondary school to release said he wanted sport to be ambitious and
one PE teacher for a day a week to continue funding to remain within schools’ budgets.
Crossing toll rise money
will not be ring-fenced
TRANSPORT chiefs have revealed that completely.All we’ve ever had in Dartford is
20% Discount across the entire Classic and Contemporary range on
additional income made from increased toll pollution and congestion.
charges at Dartford will not be ring-fenced “The ring-fencing of money made through all orders throughout January 2011.
for improvements to the crossing. the charges should be a non-issue because
Visit the showroom or see website for CLEARANCE BARGAINS or
Minister for transport Mike Penning said the tolls should not be there.”
money would be used for transport projects Brian Macdowall, secretary of the Kent Call us on
across the country – including the crossing – branch of the Association for British Drivers,
but that the Government had no intention of said the Government was forcing drivers to
0800 2888 244
putting aside funds specifically for improve- accept the inevitably of permanent charging
ments to the bridge or tunnel. by stating that the next two increases would
But Dartford MP Gareth Johnson said not be ring-fenced but transferred to a gener-
ring-fencing should be a non-issue consider- al transport pot.
ing the tolls should be scrapped altogether. “Government extracts over £50 million a
Previously, government officials had year in profits causing totally avoidable daily
pledged to drop the toll charges when con- jams in the process, and is manipulating
struction costs for the crossing were paid off, taxpayers into believing electronic tolling is
but since it went into profit in 2004 they have the answer,”he said.
remained in place. “Diverting price increases elsewhere is cyn-
Instead of scrapping charges, they were ical manipulation of public opinion.
increased from £1 to £1.50.In 2011 this will “Kent ABD challenges Mike Penning to
rise to £2,and in 2012 to £2.50. hold a referendum on whether the public
Government is looking into a free-flow want the charges removed.
14 Suffolk Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea CT8 8JG
charging technology to reduce congestion, “After all, it’s their money, not the
which will be paid for by the increased tolls. Government’s,that is being used to maintain 0800 2888 244 www.lexterten.com
Mr Johnson said:“They should be removed tolling.What kind of democracy is that?”
66I newsWEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport ADVERTISING(cid:2)01303 817000
THE INTERVIEW
BY TOM BETTS
Horribly good
fun lifted from
page to stage
AS ONEof the brains behind the stage adapta- find out more about what Roman emperors got up to,
tions of the tremendously popular Horrible take the audience into the Coliseum and much more.We
also have Bogglevision,an interactive 3D video screen expe-
Histories books,Neal Foster has enjoyed huge rience,so you really feel part of the battle.It works fantasti-
success taking the shows to the masses. cally well and we’re very happy with the results.To do this
show again,to take it on tour again,has given us the chance
The books – written by Terry Deary and Peter Hepplewhite
to have another look at the Romans.
– are renowned for offering a skewed and hilarious take on
“We were struggling last time and I recommissioned a new
history.Neal,45,the show producer,said:“They concentrate on
adaptation and we are really,really happy with it.That’s one
the rude,funny,gory,nasty and horrible side of history as a
reason to look forward to the new dates,to come back with a
way of getting young people interested.Although the BBC is better show.Like the Romans,we’ve been fairly ruthless
looking to produce an adult TV series,I understand,as they about getting it right this time.”
are so popular with adults,too. Neal says much of the Horrible Histories audience
“The whole thing is just a wonderful and fun way of getting is made up of school trips.
people interested in history and the books have done that,I’m “They make up a lot of the seating, yes.
sure.They have sold so many copies and the series is expand- Horrible Histories is very popular with schools
ing and finding new fans all the time.” as it works well with children’s studies.A lot
The acclaimed stage versions have been running for eight of the material is taken from the books,
years and have proved popular with readers and fans,as well with interesting facts we add ourselves.
as Horrible Histories novices. There will be many familiar characters
Neal approached Terry Deary with the idea of taking it to and it works amazingly well.
the stage.From there the tours were born and started to play “It’s almost like a fantastic variety
theatres across the country on a regular basis. show with a historical and fun angle.
Neal said:“The shows have been hugely successful and real- “An audience with such a young age
ly hit the spot.Schoolastic,which publishes them,has been brings so much energy to it all and that’s
very happy,too.We are now into our eighth year,and the cur- another big plus, although we know
rent production is the second time we have come back to adults enjoy the shows just as much.”
Egyptians and Romans. The Awful Egyptians and Ruthless
“Essentially,the show is scenes from aspects of those two Romans Horrible Histories will be at the
people’s history all tied in to a storyline which takes you Assembly Hall Theatre,Tunbridge Wells,
through it.” from February 1-5. MODERN MAN:
Neal has updated the Romans side of the production after he For tickets and show times,call the box
Horrible Histories
admitted to not being entirely happy last time it toured. office on 01892 530613 or visit
He said:“In the show we meet Boadicea in all her glory,we www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk. show producer
Neal Foster
196-198 Canterbury Road, Birchington CT7 9AQ
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
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EDITORIAL(cid:2)01303 817100 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport WEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011news I 7
Budget cuts ‘disguised
by smoke and mirrors’
A TOWN hall finance chief has the cuts earlier this year.We knew from our
accused the Coalition of using forecast that we would have to make difficult
decisions in order to provide the services res-
“smoke and mirrors” to hide the idents expect while still saving money.
true extent of cuts to local authori- “The fact the Government is giving us even
less – and considerably below what other
ty budgets,writes Marijke Cox.
councils are receiving – is going to make bal-
Deputy leader and finance member for ancing our budget even more difficult.”
Medway Council, Alan Jarrett, said The Government stated any council whose
Whitehall had tried to make the deep cuts spending power would drop by more than 8.9
seem less than they actually were. per cent would receive a “top-up”.
“I find the smoke and mirrors way the Thirty-six councils in England will receive
Government has attempted to make it look this,but based on the Government’s figures
like Medway is only losing around four per Medway will miss out.
cent – when in reality it will see cuts of near- A council official said:“This is despite the
ly 12 per cent next year – particularly fact Medway’s budgets have always been
unpalatable,”he said. tight.It receives one of the lowest grants of
Two weeks ago the Government announced any unitary authority and has a traditional-
a cut of 3.6 per cent in the unitary authority’s ly low council tax base.”
spending,but Cllr Jarrett said at the time it Medway cabinet members have instructed
was more likely to be about 10 per cent. officers to start consultation on team restruc-
Failing tures,which will lead to more job cuts on top
of the 104 predicted.Its regeneration arm,
Since then, however, officers working Medway Renaissance,has also been closed,
through the figures have found a much larger with 20 jobs lost.Although frontline services
total cut of 11.9 per cent.This figure takes will be protected,the Government has said
into account the scrapping of grants for par- grants in areas such as transport, skills
ticular functions – something councils have training and migration will go.
accused the Government of failing to do – as The official added:“The council will be set-
well as the cuts to the main formula grant. ting a budget for the new financial year in
It means Medway,which must find £50 mil- February and will need to take into account
lion in savings over the next four years,will see the huge drop in funding.”
a funding gap of £23.5m for the 2011/12 finan- Kent County Council revealed two weeks
cial year – £4m more than forecast. ago that the 1.82 per cent grant reduction for
Cllr Jarrett said:“Medway has traditional- next year,set out by Government,was also
ly received a lot less but through hard work much lower than the true figure.
and determination we have continuously Cabinet member John Simmonds said the
managed to balance our budget. figure was more likely to be around 10 per
“We have consistently been judged as pro- cent.He said full details would be available
viding good value and set about preparing for in January’s budget.
88I newsWEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport ADVERTISING(cid:2)01303 817000
MP backing new rights Changes to rape retraction
for holiday park tenants
rules welcomed by CPS chief
A TORY backbencher has thrown be occupied for 10 months of
his weight behind plans to give the year, and in some cases all-
holiday park tenants the same year-round.
NEW guidelines on the justice is unusual and approval is level of support to victims,”he said.
security as homeowners. “I am also keen to see some of the
Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP excess capacity in our holiday treatment of people who required at the highest level before “Rape is one of the cruellest and
any prosecution will commence.” most degrading offences,and prose-
Gordon Henderson raised a home sector converted into afford- withdraw allegations of rape The move is part of a shake-up cuting it can be difficult.
debate in Parliament to highlight able residential homes to help ease
problems with current planning our current housing shortage.” have been welcomed by within the CPS which includes “Accordingly,we are determined to
improving the quality of communica- ensure we continue building on the
regulations which see residents of To support his argument Mr Kent’s chief crown prosecu-
hhoolmideasy f opr atrwkos mfoornctehds ofrf otmhe tyheeairr. HPaernkdlearnsdo n Vrialliasgede tihne Mcaisnes teorf tor,writes Marijke Cox. taisosnu rwanitche vimcteimassu raensd winhtircohd ucwinilgl cino nrseicdeenrta ybelea rpsr.ogress we have made
Mr Henderson,whose Sheppey where residents were being Roger Coe-Salazar gave his backing require the CPS to monitor the han- “It is essential the public in Kent
constituency has almost 7,000 made to leave their homes for to a series of changes for the Crown dling of cases involving women who have confidence rape victims will be
park homes,said many of these two months because of planning Prosecution Service procedure;with a have been treated violently. treated sensitively and their attack-
are freehold properties. Under regulations. key element about dealing with Another factor being addressed is ers will be prosecuted robustly.”
current planning law,some of the He said: “These residents are retractions of rape accusations. stereotypes about victims’ behaviour; Mr Coe-Salazar said he would be
sites have 10-month occupancy being forced,under threat of pros- It follows recent court rulings for example if they were drunk or closely monitoring communication
and others just eight months. ecution, to leave perfectly good- which exposed failings in cases dressed in a particular way when between lawyers and complainants
The Government, however, quality bungalows that have full where abuse victims had been scared they were raped. to ensure everyone could understand
intends to bring all residential building regulations and energy into dropping claims and then Director of public prosecutions Keir proceedings.
and home park licensing and leas- standards approved by the local charged with perverting the course of Starmer said cases should be judged Invaluable
ing under the protection of the authority's building control sec- justice. entirely on the merits of evidence.
Residential Property Tribunal tion.They are being encouraged Merits Mr Coe-Salazar said he will ensure He added:“Much of our progress in
Services to give owners and ten- to move into hotel accommoda- prosecutors will make decisions prosecuting rape cases has been
ants the same security as those in tion,such as that offered by the The new guidance looks to explore based on the merits of evidence. informed by engagement with the
normal homes. hotel situated on the same site as the issues behind a retraction by put- “There can be no room for decisions voluntary organisations that do so
Mr Henderson said:“I want to the bungalows they own. ting in place stringent measures based on the assumption that a jury much fabulous work in this area.
see a more flexible and logical “Such a policy is beyond parody, before a prosecutor considering might hold certain misconceptions “Due to the humbling bravery
planning regime with regards but I do not blame my local pressing charges can proceed. due to ignorant stereotyping,” he of rape victims who have been
to park homes.If properties are authority; I blame a planning Mr Coe-Salazar said:“In the new added. willing to share with us their experi-
of a high enough standard then I system that has allowed such year the CPS will be consulting He stressed that prosecution of ence of going through the criminal
see no reason why they should not illogical action.” with charities and organisations, rape would remain a principle prior- justice system,we have also had the
with expertise on sexual offences and ity for CPS Kent and that budget invaluable opportunity of hearing
other violent crimes, as to how cuts would not affect the quality of and taking on board their views.
and when we charge individuals with specialist rape prosecutors. “Let me reassure you, I have a
the serious offence of perverting the “We have invested considerable strong team of highly trained and
course of justice;particularly when a resources and effort in ensuring experienced prosecutors and para-
rape complainant is suspected of that we apply the highest levels of legal officers.
falsely retracting his or her allegation. professional competence to not only “But,as always,there is room for
“Prosecuting a rape complainant the prosecution of such cases,but, improvement and I am not in the
for perverting the course of in particular, providing the right least bit complacent about this.”
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EDITORIAL(cid:2)01303 817100 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport WEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011news I 9
21-year-old jailed Pair jailed for
for raid on garage
A ROBBER held up two security guards in
causing fatal
Greenhithe before making off with a pair of
empty cash cassettes.
Harley Webb, 21, from Plumstead, south-
east London,claimed he had a gun and threat-
ened the men outside the Esso service station
in London Road,on February 8,last year.
He was jailed for three-and-a-half years pile-up on M2
when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court
on December 23.
Det Con Jan Metherell said: “Security
guards going about their daily business should
not have to face threats or danger.”
Jim Molloy
Fire service plan
By JON COATES 120-140mph and close to each other before
the collision.
THE consultation on planned changes to Kent
Serious Collision Investigation Unit officer
Fire and Rescue Service ends later this month. TWO menhave been sentenced to
Ian Malcolm said:“We are satisfied with the
Under the proposals firefighters may no
a total of 11 years in prison for sentences,but the outcome will never bring
longer attend automatic fire alarms,and fire
stations across the county may be closed. causing death by dangerous driv- back Mr Molloy.A normal working day ended
in tragedy as a result of the complete disre-
The outcomes of the consultation will be ing in an road accident last year.
gard by Steele and Parker for the law and
considered at the next meeting of the Kent and
Police described the crash on July 31,2009, other road users and,indeed,their own safety.
Medway Fire and Rescue Authority on
as a “catastrophic chain of events”which saw “These men will be free at the end of their
February 16.
the victim die as his car became a fireball. sentences, but Mr Molloy’s loved ones will
To view the proposals in full visit
www.kent.fire-uk.org. Edward Parker, a 51-year-old company DISREGARD: David Steele (left) and Edward never fully recover from losing a husband,
director,of Sportsman’s Cottages,Kings Hill, father and grandfather.”
Parker were jailed for causing fatal crash
Bridging the gap received seven years in prison,was disquali- A statement from Mr Molloy’s family said:
fied from driving for seven years,and ordered him.This caused Mr Molloy to lose control “Jim was a truly wonderful man,full of love
to pay £3,500 costs. and triggered a catastrophic chain of events and compassion, who was the head of our
ELDERLY people took part in a quiz night David Steele, a 55-year-old retired busi- that resulted in five vehicles becoming very close family.He made us all feel very
with children as part of a ‘Bridging the Gap’ nessman,of Dane Close,Hartlip,was jailed involved in the collision. loved and secure.
event in Gravesend. for four years,disqualified from driving for “Mr Molloy’s car subsequently struck a “Our family life before his death was filled
About 45 people aged between eight and 90 six years,and ordered to pay £1,000 costs. lorry before hitting the central reservation with laughter,jokes and fun times,but now it
took part in the festivities,organised by Kent The crash happened just after 5pm when and catching fire. Incredibly,four men pulled is hard not to focus on the way he died and
Police and Gravesend council in response to Jim Molloy,58,from Broadstairs,was driving Mr Molloy from his burning car without that when we are together he is always miss-
the two generations admitting they did not coastbound along the M2 between junctions regard for their own safety,but attempts to ing.We grieve for him and for the life we all
understand each other. three and four in Medway. resuscitate him were unsuccessful.” once had.”
PC Sarah Lewis said:“It was good to see how A police spokesman said:“He was return- Witnesses told Lewes Crown Ccourt the Mr Molloy worked with adults with learn-
well the youngsters and older people were ing home from work at the time when a car high-powered cars being driven by Steele and ing disabilities and was dedicated to helping
enjoying each other’s company.” driven by Parker ploughed into the back of Parker appeared to be travelling at between them fulfil their potential.
Pothole crews expanded
to hit the roads running
“My husband and I
separated last year. I was at
EXTRA road crews have been drafted in to Last year KCC brought in small and medi-
tackle potholes left by the recent cold snap. um-sized local firms in a six-month ‘find and a complete loss to know
Kent County Council has added 12 work fix’ campaign which cost £6.5 million,includ-
gangs to operate alongside 33 teams already ing £2.4m received in the March,2010,gov- what to do. Whitehead
fixing the roads. ernment budget,following the harshest win-
Cabinet member for highways Cllr Nick ter in 30 years. Monckton were very caring
Chard said the gangs will aim to make per- Last year’s big freeze opened thousands of and were able to help me
manent first-time repairs,where possible. potholes,where water and snow had seeped
“Every winter potholes form as a result of inside cracks, then froze and expanded, arrange everything without
ice in the road freezing and thawing,” he cracking the road surface as it did so.Crews
said.“This can be very damaging,depending fixed 31,000 potholes. us going to court. They also
on how bad the weather is.We are ready to Cllr Chard said:“We made an enormous
sorted out the mortgage and
hit the ground running this year,increasing investment last summer and did an enor-
the number of pothole crews. mous amount of repairs to roads.They were made sure I had a new will.”
“In early spring we will take stock of how absolutely first class,quality repairs.
much damage has been caused and whether “We are confident the potholes we repaired
further action is required.” then will stand up to the conditions.”
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1100I newsWEEKENDINGJANUARY2, 2011 www.kentnews.co.uk for all the news and sport ADVERTISING(cid:2)01303 817000
Pensioner TRADING Standards is investigating after rogue traders This is Margate contest entries impress
conned a 92-year-old into paying more than £6,000 for
roof repairs.
loses £6k The pensioner called police after the workmen
increased the cost from an originally agreed £2,400. Elite photo judge
Homeowners are urged to use professional builders
in roof con
with genuine references and a good reputation. Call
Consumer Direct on 08454 040 506 for more information.
more than Parr
for the course
By MARIJKE COX
[email protected]
ACCLAIMEDphotographer Martin
Parr has become the latest creative
icon to help with the revival of one of
the county’s former tourist hotspots.
The self-proclaimed “aficionado
of the British seaside”,who is a
member of the elite Magnum
photography group,paid a visit to
Thanet to announce the winner
of This is Margate,a competition
used to showcase the town.
Hundreds of entries were whit-
tled down to six in a public vote
and the eventual winner, Martin Parr
Jacqueline Marshall, was
announced by Parr.Pictures from the finalists
will be used for postcards to promote the town
in 2011.
Parr, who became a member of Magnum
Photos – an international cooperative owned
by its members – in 1994 after a long selection
process,said he was impressed with the stan-
dard of work.But he added it was important
for the public to choose the winner.
“What the public may vote for may not be BEST SHOT: Jacqueline Marshall’s winner
what I would vote for,”he said.“It’s community
art at its best,seeing the town they know and silver teapot at the Walpole Bay Hotel in
love on show.” Cliftonville,by Gerardo Calia.
The 58-year-old chose an additional winner “It’s a timeless image from a hotel which has
himself out of the entrants;a photograph of a been there for 150 years,a real Margate insti-
tution,”he said.“It gave a glimpse into secret
Margate.”
Surrey-born Parr,who carried out a fashion
shoot at the Walpole Bay Hotel in 2009,said he
enjoyed photographing Britain, particularly
the seaside.
“Margate went into decline and there was
decay,but it’s about to turn a corner,”he said.
“There is Dreamland and the Turner
Contemporary.This is Margate’s renaissance.
It almost burned out,but things are about to
change.”
Parr, who has been in the industry for 40
years,said photography had changed due to
the internet and different attitudes in society.
“It was in the doldrums for a while,but now
all big galleries want to show photography,”he
said.“It has grown hugely and changed dra-
ABOVE PARR: Gerardo Calia’s teapot shot