Thurrock Council is asking local people for their thoughts on the many different types of development sites in the borough. As well as an online consultation (www.thurrock.gov.uk) the council’s strategic planning team is attending various events to hear what people have to say and to explain the complexities of what is involved.
Toni has been having with problems and especially with her three children who are constant visitors to the local surgery. They are not alone as there are a long line of children with health problems that may well be exacerbated by the damp conditions they are living in.
According to councillor Amanda Arnold (Cons), the heat exchange systems known as Flatmasters or Homemasters, were put into council properties across Thurrock in the late 90’s, and properties that have the system will have plastic vents in the walls or ceilings to allow the air to circulate.
Looking back to February, Kay said: “It started snowing heavily on the Saturday and the Neighbourhood Watch group got together with ‘high-viz’ jackets and some shovels and did the road. “We all had some fun and it worked well. Luckily we’re not far from London Road and that was gritted by the council.”
“It was regrettable to have removed the old play equipment at such short notice, but having seen how badly corroded the old metal framework was, prompt action was taken to prevent a child potentially injuring themselves. “I would personally like thank Veolia, the portfolio holder Cllr Val Morris-Cook and officers for allocating the funds for the play equipment.”
THE residents of Stifford Clays and Blackshots wards are invited to the Stifford Community Forum's next open meeting on Monday 19th March at the Baptist Church Hall. Premier Avenue, Socketts Heath, Grays, commencing 7-30 pm.
THE COMMEMORATION OF THE DIAMOND jubilee of the Queen is well underway in Thurrock. Last week, the mayor of Thurrock, cllr Charlie Curtis visited Grays Town Park and along with a class from Quarry Hill primary, planted a special tree in the park.
Chairperson, Maggie Whitbread, introduced the members of the newly elected committee before introducing th e guest speaker, John Knowles, a Pearly King who , dressed in his full regalia, told the origins of the tradition in 1855. He continued by leading a singalong of Cockney and music hall songs accompanying himself on guitar.
The short survey can also be found on the ngage website and it would be great if parents could let their children know about it as there are also two Lakeside Vouchers to be won in a free prize draw. Visit www.ngagethurrock.org.uk or call 01375 389893 for more information.
“We have set an ambitious target of 300 and are confident that lots of people will want to get involved. Whether you want to get involved in marshalling and stewarding or event support and more, all you need to do is contact ngage. We have a wealth of experience around volunteering and there is something for everyone, with support around training and involvement.”
With £52,000 from Section 106 money from a Bellway Homes development there was a chance to provide much-needed new play equipment. Support from various Thurrock Council departments — including housing and environment — made the facility a reality.
LAST YEAR, GRAY'S very own Russell Brand went to Kenya to see the work that Anne Oweti does in the slums near Nairobi. The Thurrock connection is that Anne's daughter, Lynda, a journalist, lives in Stifford Clays.
Cllr. Phil Anderson, who represents Stanford East and Corringham Town, said, “Whilst the police have done their best to deal with the problems of speeding and bad driving on Southend Road we really need a more permanent solution. Thurrock Council have now looked at various options and there are 3 levels of action which could be taken and as local councillors we want to know what residents think”.
The West Essex Bowmen are raising funds for Essex Air Ambulance . The Belhus Park based group are holding an event at Belhus on the weekend of April (28th & 29th) There is a bit of history in this; in that one of their members was rescued after collapsing a few years ago from the country park and so the AA holds a very special place in their hearts.
SMP ARE delighted to announce that they have been selected to provide total play solutions, including a full funding service, for four play area developments for Thurrock Council.