Since May 1999, as elected representative for the Kellet Ward, I have consistently pressed for local views to be taken seriously when planning applications are considered. These have included applications at Arkholme, and at Borwick and Priest Hutton, and caravan park extensions at various sites in the ward. I have supported the building of an M6 link to Heysham and I am pleased to note that the project now has "programme entry" which is a necessary step on the way to it receiving funding approval.

In the parishes, I have attended Parish Councils, Parish Meetings and Quarry Liaison meetings and have given advice and encouragement and assisted with grant applications when appropriate.

HELP FOR USERS OF CITY COUNCIL CAR PARKS

In January 2009, while I was portfolio holder for Transport within the City Council, I was able to persuade Cabinet to agree proposals that charges for parking for up to two hours in the City Council’s Car Parks should be held constant at £1.60. This charge is the same as in 2007-8, and for all except a short period at the start of 2008-9 - and it is now being repeated in 2009-10. My recommendation was designed to support the customers and clients whose patronage is vital to help shops and service providers stay in business in our urban centres in the current difficult economic climate.

An innovative 24/5 parking permit has been introduced in 2009-10 on my recommendation to Cabinet - as an alternative to the long standing 24/7 permit. Permit fees for the 24/7 permit are rising by 5% in 2009-10, but the new permit has been introduced at a discount of 5% compared with the new fee for the 24/7 permit. This new annual permit is designed for those commuters who know they will only require parking facilities for 5 days a week and not 7 days a week. Users who elect to buy the 24/5 permit in 2009-10 will pay the same amount as they paid for last year's permit. For employees to have no increase in their commuting cost payable for using the City Council's Car Parks is a clear benefit in the current recession.

CONSERVATIVES IN KELLET WARD

A Kellet Ward branch of the Morecambe and Lunesdale Conservative Association was formed in February 2006. Representatives from all of the villages in the ward are members of the branch committee. Enquiries about membership of the branch and about branch activities will be welcomed - see Contact Details (click bottom button but one in the column on the left).