Borough Insight July 2017

InsightBorough JULY 2017WHAT’S ONGame Plan, Farmers’ Marketand ShemomedjamoOUR PARKSMote Park Developmentand Dementia WalkNEW IncentiveScheme forLandlordsPLUS 1Spotlight onStaplehurst maidstone.gov.uk

ChriATsaletof mas at Leeds Castle Celebrating 150 years of Beatrix Potter The CastleWhy wait? 3rd December to 2nd January AskRelive the classic Beatrix Potter™ tales on the 150thyour GPBenenden Hospital offers the treatmentstate rooms, imaginative Christmas tree decorations and anniversary of her birth through themed displays in Castleto referyou urgently need, deliverefedstivbe flyorasl aprraengcemiaenlitss. tyouconsultants at a time to suit you.Christmas Market 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 22nd & 23rd DecemberChoose to become a private patieDnutring your Benenden Hospitalat Benenden Hospital and receiveMarket for a visit doifsfceorvserathweidCehrriastnmgaes of splentdriedaatrmraeynotfss,eianscolnuadl ing: range ofgifts, toys, festive decorations, specialistdiagnosis and treatment for a food and drink. Enjoy nostalgicmedical and surgical specialities infaiargrsoaunfdea,ttractions anGd emneeetrtahlesurgeryultra-clean modern environment. reindeer and our birds of prey. Gynaecology leeds-castle.comRespiratory We’re thrilled! We’re ratedBEATRIX POTTER™ © FrederickWarne &Co.,2016. Outstanding by the CQC UrologyFrederickWarne &Co.is the owner of all rights, copyrights and trademarks in the Beatrix Potter character names and illustrations OrthopaedicLeeds Castle is closed on the 25th DecemberCall us on 01580 242 521 quote MB Gastroenterologywww.benendenhospital.org.uk The Benenden Hospital Trust is a company limited by guarantee. Reg in England 3454120. Reg charity 1065995. Reg office, The Benenden Hospital Trust,Goddard’s Green Road, Benenden, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 4AX2 maidstone.gov.uk

Borough InsightContacts WelcomeEditor Welcome to our first stand-alone resident magazine, Borough Insight.Helen Bell It’s entirely new and not just a new format which gives just a glimpse ofGeorgie Grassom the myriad of places to be proud of and activities going on around our borough.AdvertisingHelen Bell Recent events at Grenfell Tower in Kensington have emphasised housingGeorgie Grassom as one of the most challenging of contemporary issues for many people in our community and for the council. Our aim is to ensure that there is aTo advertise in Borough Insight contact Home for Everyone in our community. The council is planning for the [email protected] term - making difficult decisions about where new homes can be built, working hard to prevent people from becoming homeless and findingDesign temporary accommodation when this is needed and, as you will see onNatalie Tye page 5, looking to work with more landlords to find homes for people who are on our housing register.Contents 4 6 Keeping our borough clean and safe is key to us all feeling proud ofOur Borough 7 where we live and we can all help by contributing positively to ourMote Park 8 communities – so with a little time to prepare for the Autumn Clean-UpHealthy Living 10 I hope that many of you will join our collective effort to show that we don’tCommunity News 12 tolerate litter.Environmental Maidstone Museum Whether it is indoor or outdoor pursuits – there is plenty going on over the summer and autumn. Why not visit our Game Plan exhibition at Maidstone Museum or new Ancient Lives gallery which will be open from September where you can discover more about how modern day technology has revealed the secrets of our Egyptian mummy Ta Kush.Culture and Events 14 Let’s hope that the fine weather will continue at least until the firstRegeneration week-end in September when Mote Park will be hosting our newSpotlight On 16 international food festival “Shemomedjamo”. If you can’t make it - there isOnline Services Your Councillors 17 always something to enjoy in the park - whether you go there for music,Your Mayor picnicking or a walk taking in the more tranquil areas. The council is 19 investing in the infrastructure which supports this important visitor venue and ensure it has sustainable financial future. 20 Whatever you choose to do – I hope you find something to enjoy in the 22 county town or around our borough over the summer.Follow us on twitter Alison Broom@maidstonebc Chief ExecutiveLike our facebook page@maidstoneboroughcouncil maidstone.gov.ukWatch our youtube page@maidstonecouncil 3

OPularnBnoinroguLgohcal PlanCreating a County Town to be proud ofAs the County Town of Kent, we M20 and is part of the North Kent One of the area’s key assets iswant Maidstone to remain well Enterprise Zone. When complete, the River Medway which runsand truly on the map. the 30-acre Kent Medical Campus through the centre of the town, site will provide 98,000m2 of linking it with Rochester and theLiving in the borough, you accommodation for medical and Thames Estuary. Recognising thecannot fail to notice the changes life science companies, specialist importance of the river, the Medwayhappening. Just a walk through the residential and rehabilitation care, Cycle Path Project will be led bytown centre and you will notice a with the aspiration for higher Kent County Council with £2millionnumber of improvements including education level training facilities from the LEP, and £500k from MBC.the successful completion for the medical and healthcare The project will see the creationof phases 1 & 2 to the public professions. Phase one saw the of a 2.5m wide tarmac path fromspaces at Jubilee Square and construction of KIMS Hospital, Barming Bridge to the M20 pastRemembrance Square on the High a 92 bed independent hospital Allington Lock allowing those livingStreet. The £3.5 million pound employing more than 300 clinicians, and visiting the borough to enjoyworks undertaken by Maidstone nursing staff and management. all the river has to offer. WilliamBorough Council (MBC) create a Now work has got under way Cornall, Director of Regenerationsense of place as well as providing on an £18million 65 bed mental and Place at Maidstone Borougha safe and attractive environment health facility. Leader of Maidstone Council said:for those who visit, live and work Borough Council, Cllr Fran Wilson,in the borough. Phase 3 and 4 of said: “The Kent Medical Campus “There is no doubt thatthe works is planned for early next represents one of Maidstone’syear and will improve the whole key employment assets. With the this is an exciting timeof Week Street and Gabriel’s Hill creation of thousands of highlythanks to a further £4 million skilled and well paid jobs over the for Maidstone as we startcommitment from MBC. next 10 years and its status as an Enterprise Zone it will play a vital to see our visions for theBut these changes are just the role in the borough’s Economictip of the iceberg for the council, Development Strategy. Whilst area come to fruition.who are committed to keeping economic growth is undoubtedlythe borough an attractive place important I am particularly pleased We have always been ambitiousfor all and securing a successful that a new state-of-the-art Mental about what we can achieve andeconomy. Working with developers Health facility is being brought to our strong relationships with ourand other key stakeholders has Maidstone which will provide much partners have enabled us to deliverseen the creation of the Kent needed expertise and support to the and support projects that are for theMedical Campus at junction 7 of the borough.” benefit of everyone who comes to our borough.”4 maidstone.gov.uk

Our Borough Maidstone Homefinders Incentive Scheme for LandlordsThe future continues to look bright If you are a landlord with a Homefinder Bondfor Maidstone with the creation of property in excellent conditionan adventure zone at the popular then we want to hear from you. The Homefinder Bond is anMote Park, which was recently alternative scheme which offersnamed as one of the most-loved We are offering landlords an landlords a bond as securityopen spaces in the UK, and the incentive for every property the against damage, cleaning costs andredevelopment of the former Royal council can use to provide housing rent arrears in lieu of a deposit.Mail site in Sandling Road. The for clients on its housing register.site has a long term masterplan What are the benefits?with the focus of transforming the If you fulfil the criteria then youarea, with a ‘landmark’ mixed-use could benefit from the following • The bond covers a higherdevelopment including retail space, bonuses including a one-off amount than the usual deposithomes, offices, increased parking payment:and an improved interchange • The minimum bond offered tobetween buses, trains and taxis. Incentives: landlords is £1,250With the many schemes, • Receive a one-off payment • Free check-in and check-out ofdevelopments and improvement from £2,500 tenantworks planned, it’s clear that thecouncil is committed to making the • Save money on advertising • Free inventory (via a specialistCounty Town a place that residents third party inventory service)can be proud of, a location where • Free check-in and check-out ofbusinesses are enabled to thrive tenant • No need to be registered with aand a destination where visitors can Tenancy Depositenjoy an offer to the extent that they • Free Inventory (via a specialist Protection Schemewould come back to Maidstone over third party inventory service)and over again. Interested? • Regular tenancy sustainment visits If you would like to find out further information contact • Dedicated customer support throughout The Housing Team on: 01622 602252 or • Reduced financial impact of email: [email protected] lengthy periods without use (void periods) maidstone.gov.uk 5

Mote Park MOTE PARKWe’re making the improvements to Mote Park IMPROVEDthat you’ve told us matter most to you! CAR PARKINGADVENTURE NEWZONE: FOOTPATHS LOCATION FOR NEW MOTE• HIGH ROPES PARK CENTRE• CLIMBING WALL / CAFE /• SEGWAY COURSE TOILETS• ADVENTURE GOLF NEW PLAY AREA Opening Spring 2018 Everyone loves a Adventure Zone, Climbing Wall, High ropes little bit of ice cream! Adventure Golf, Play area, Segways We’re delighted to announce that a new Carte D’Or gelateria has Opening 2019 opened at Mote Park Café. Offering a mouth-watering range of ice cream The Mote Park Centre flavours from vanilla to strawberry cheesecake, it’s sure to be a firm Maidstone Borough Council is investing £4.3 million over the next favourite over the warm summer three years in the park. months. We’ve listened to your comments and used this feedback to decide upon the best way to invest in your park’s future. We’ve also got something for You can expect to see new and improved facilities including: our four-legged visitors - lick-able frozen yoghurts • New Visitor Centre and Café for dogs! Available in • New fully inclusive toilets for people with disabilities a choice of flavours • New Play park including original, • Enhanced parking vanilla and blueberry, • Improved visitor routes to the whole of the park you can now treat your pooch as well as yourself! Mote Park Car Park Charges We are committed to maintaining Mote Park as an award-winning public facility for families and walkers to enjoy. So we are able to continue to invest in the many park’s improvements we will now charge £2 for a 6 hour stay. Maidstone residents may purchase an annual pass for only £40. We believe this increase still represents excellent value for money and hope that you will continue to support and enjoy the park. For further details visit: www.maidstone.gov.uk6 maidstone.gov.uk

Healthy LivingEnjoy a healthy walk in Mote ParkThe importance of the natural environment in Featuring a mix of visual interpretation panels andmaintaining healthy lives is well-known. Research audio posts, walkers are also encouraged to feel theshows that engagement with nature has a positive role bark textures on certain individual trees. There is ato play across a range of conditions from mental health leaflet, including a map, to accompany the walk, whichto diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Being out in is approximately one mile long. Copies are availablenature and sharing activities outside brings particular from the Mote Park Café and the Visitor Informationbenefits to people living with dementia and is a crucial Centre at Maidstone Museum.part of helping them to live well. The interpretation along the route has been developedA brand new trail has now been created in Mote Park by MBC officers following training from Dementiaspecifically designed for people living with dementia. It Adventure, and the whole project has been madeis intended to stimulate all the senses whilst providing possible thanks to a generous grant froma safe, enjoyable walk around the park. Maidstone Age UK.Healthy Living ProgrammesDid you know that we offer a range of programmes Adult Weight Managementthat help support you to become healthier and enjoyimproved wellbeing for life? Get support around your diet and help to be more active. There are 2 sessions a week - a diet andMatch Fit nutrition seminar plus a circuit training class.‘Men only’ programme supporting you to increase your Duration: 10 weeks with extra sessions at 6, 9 & 12fitness levels. months Time: VariousDuration: Once a week for 10 weeks with extra sessions Location: Maidstone Leisure Centreat 6, 9 & 12 months Cost: £5 joining fee. Circuits and use of gym/swimmingTime: Early evening pool £1.80 per sessionLocation: Maidstone United FC & Park WoodCost: Free Zeroth Exercise ReferralCounterweight Delivered in a family-run gym offering you the chance to get more active in a friendly, unintimidatingEmpowering you to make long-term changes in order to environment.live as a thinner person. Duration: 2 sessions per week over 12 weeks with extraDuration: Every other week over 12 weeks with extra sessions at 6, 9 & 12 months.sessions at 6, 9 & 12 months Time: VariousTime: Various Location: Zeroth Active Zone, LooseLocation: Various Cost: £1.50 per sessionCost: FreeHealth Walks How are you www.nhs.uk/oneyouWalking for Health offer free, regular short walks Referrals can be made by completing the Healthyacross the Maidstone Borough. Suitable for people Living Referral Form (available online), via a healthwho do little or no exercise. Walks are led by a team of professional or your GP.dedicated and trained volunteer walk leaders. www.maidstone.gov.uk/healthylivingDuration: Ongoing 01622 602222Time: Various [email protected]: VariousCost: Freemaidstone.gov.uk 7

Community News Jenny joined Maidstone Borough Park on Tonbridge Road. This Council in April this year having will include an action plan for theJenny Nicholson previously worked as a self- future development of the park employed tree surgeon, with and my aim is to improve it forParks Technical Officer experience of climbing, chipping conservation, making it a fun, safe and stump grinding trees. recreational area. What do you do? What is your favourite park? I work in the Parks and Open I would have to say Cornwallis Park Spaces department as Parks as it’s where I’ve spent most of my Technical Officer. My main priorities time so far, and it has a lovely feel are dealing with enquiries and about it. Sitting at the top of the concerns from the public regarding park has to be the best spot as you trees but I’m also working on a get a great view. management plan for CornwallisA view from the Terrace unique benefits of being part of the Terrace, which featured 18 year old business prodigy Ben Towers, and the tenant who introduced him to The Business Terrace, Roger Williams. In the same month, thanks toMAIDSTONE help from one of our free on-site business advisors,Here at The Business Terrace, Maidstone Borough Tom secured funding to grow his business from TheCouncil’s business incubator, we have helped nearly Prince’s Trust.500 businesses in the last two years by providing AMCO Productions officially became a Maidstonean inspiring and highly supportive environment for based business in March this year when a twoKent’s entrepreneurs. We assist many businesses person office became available at the Terrace, andwith our free face-to-face support, along with the business moved in. Though he’s previously usedworkshops for businesses that are starting up or freelancers, Tom has recently taken on a full-timelooking to grow. As well as support, the Terrace permanent employee and already has his eye on oneoffers affordable hot desks, meeting rooms, virtual of the larger offices so he can continue to expand. Inand physical offices, all with flexible terms, and it is April Tom won his first big contract with Seedrs, ana contributing reason to Maidstone having the second equity crowdfunding investment firm. The Terracelargest number of new businesses in Kent last year, was a great help in this as Tom admits part of hiswith a rise from 760 in 2013 to 1381 by 2016. success is thanks to Dan Lawrence of Durty MediaA successful first year in business! who is based in the office adjacent to Tom’s and evenTom Cogan, from Tonbridge, started his business AMCO at the young age of 31, provides mentoring to youngerProductions, a video production company, in January entrepreneurs.2016, and by July he was working on it full-time. In Within a year of working full time on his business,September a Business Terrace company encouraged Tom is already continuing this tradition of volunteering his time to support others. He will begin a serieshim to visit the community of entrepreneurs in the of publicly available videos of other entrepreneurssame position as him. Tom started at The BusinessTerrace with a one day a week desk package, and his showing their journey and what they have learned along the way. The first will be of fellow Terracebusiness quickly began to grow. start-up Adam Henderson of Millennial Mindset, whoAs AMCO Productions began to expand and flourish, teaches some of the world’s biggest brands to workTom produced a video for social media highlighting the with the evolving needs of the modern consumer.8 maidstone.gov.uk

Community News Maidstone Crisis CafeSafety Advisory Group Two new initiatives are being launched by mental healthWhat is their role? charity Maidstone & Mid Kent Mind to help cope with the rapidlyIf you’re planning on holding an How can the Safety Advisory rising number of people seekingevent in the borough, make sure Group (SAG) help me with my help for depression, stress andyou get in touch with the council. event? loneliness, and who may even beOur Safety Advisory Group (SAG) considering suicide.is here to work with event One of the important roles that theorganisers to ensure events take SAG can perform is to provide a The charity has opened theplace safely. Through consultation forum for discussing and advising Maidstone Crisis Cafe at 23and joint working between the on public safety at an event. They College Road, Maidstone, mannedcouncil and our partners including aim to help organisers with the by a team of trained mentalKent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue planning and management of an health well-being workers andService, the group is here to advise event and to encourage cooperation volunteers, some of whom mayon the event plans of organised and coordination between all have recovered from their ownevents which are open to the public relevant agencies. mental health challenges.and are staged in a public place,on a public highway or on private Community Partnerships & It is open every Friday, 5-9pm andland within the council boundaries Resilience Manager and Chair of Sunday afternoons from 1-5pm,if they meet one of the following the Safety Advisory Group Matt and is a free service.criteria:- Roberts said: The charity is also launching a• 1,000 people or more are “We want to promote high new range of courses for local expected to attend levels of safety and welfare businesses, with the latest official at events by giving advice figures showing that stress-• Where road closures and and guidance. Obviously related illness is the greatest or traffic management is we are also keen to give cause of people taking time off necessary advice on how event work. organisers can minimise• Where alcohol is available or any adverse impact or Health & Safety Executive statistics easily accessible inconvenience to local show that last year, 45 percent of residents, businesses and all working days lost to ill health in• Where amplified music is played the general public.” the UK were due to stress, anxiety (live, recorded or synthesised) and depression - an astonishing If you have any queries about 11.7 million days.• Where use of leisure waters are the planning of your event, you part of the event (e.g. river or can email safetyadvisorygroup@ Councillor Sue Grigg, who is chair- lake etc) maidstone.gov.uk. Please allow elect of the charity said: “For enough time before the event to years, employers have ensured• Where there is an enhanced risk enable the SAG to review and there is someone available trained to the event advise on your event plans, at least in first aid. We’re saying that taking a minimum of 8 weeks. care of employees’ mental health• Night-time or overnight events is equally important, particularly as it’s a growing problem.”• Events over 12 hours duration The courses being run by• Where major incident response Maidstone & Mid Kent Mind include requirements may need to be ‘Work and Well Being’, ‘Coping with considered Life’, ‘Mental Health Awareness’ and ‘Mental Health First Aid.’ Employers seeking further information about the courses should email julieblackmore@ mmkmind.org.uk or telephone 01622 692383. maidstone.gov.uk 9

EnvironmentalIf you use your food bin to recycle yourfood waste then we certainly think you are!Many of our residents know the importance Helping to make that change!of recycling waste and how this notonly helps the environment but, in turn, Step 1:contributes to reducing costs for the council. We worked with Biffa to encourage residents not to placeAny money saved can be redirected to other their food waste in their general waste bins.key areas of cleansing and recycling to improve A sticker was placed on all general waste bins askingthe services that residents access directly. residents not to place their food waste in their black bins but to use their food recycling bin instead.Whilst a great deal was being done to helpensure that recyclable products were being Step 2:disposed of using the correct bin, food wastewas often neglected and placed with general We created a family of characters called the Caddy Familywaste meaning that valuable resources were that we used to help spread the message to children agedbeing lost and bins were being contaminated. 5-11years in the borough. Using these characters we devised a 50 minute interactiveThe problem and how to encourage show and toured this with three professional actors tochange? 11 primary schools. Over 3,000 children learnt how to recycle their food waste and why it’s important for theOften food recycling is thought of as not environment to do this each week.being as important as recycling the ‘big stuff’for instance plastic bottles, jars, paper and Step 3:cardboard; however, food waste is compostpower for local farmers and therefore avaluable resource.So what was stopping residents from using Free kitchen caddys and food recycling bins were giventheir weekly food recycling service? away as part of an engagement day programme across the borough.Here are just a few of the comments from A free no food waste kit was also available to residents toyou about why you didn’t like using the food help them use every bit of food.recycling service Over 1,300 people signed up to take advantage of the free recycling bin. That’s more food being recycled each week!What you said:I don’t like using my caddy it smells.I don’t know where to get the caddy liners. Step 4:I don’t have a food recycling bin.I just put my waste in my black bin. As part of our outreach programme we produced videos,I have just moved in to my house and there brochures, flyers, badges and recipe cards to help peoplewasn’t a caddy there! understand why it is so important to recycle their foodI don’t have any food waste. waste.10 maidstone.gov.uk

EnvironmentalAutumn Clean-UpNominate your community now! Litter remains a Maidstone Borough Council’s problem across our Head of Environment and borough often cluttering Public Realm, Jennifer streets and open spaces Shepherd, wants to encourage and causing harm to as many people as possible to the environment. We get involved in the Autumn Clean- want to change this by Up: carrying out anotherclean-up this autumn, and we need “It is vitally important foryour nominations for where you think everyone to join together to helpour team can help. clean up our communities and show that we don’t tolerate litter.The Autumn Clean-Up is being runfollowing the huge success of Clean If you would like to get involved and seefor the Queen in 2016, and The Great an area near you cleared up, please sendBritish Spring Clean that took place in us your nominations. You could alsoMarch 2017. The Great British Spring carry out your own community litterClean was a nation-wide campaign pick or join one of the many groupsthat had the ambition to bring people of volunteers we have cleaning uptogether from across the country to across the borough.”clear up the litter that blights our towns,villages, countryside and coastline. The Send in your nomination via emailSpring Clean-Up had great success in to [email protected] with theMaidstone in encouraging individuals, subject Autumn Clean-Up.community groups and charities to To become a volunteer litter picker‘do their bit’ to help clear up litter, to please contact Nicola Toulson byimprove the cleanliness of our streets, emailing [email protected], play areas and parks. uk or phoning 01622 602568.We’re saying noto fly-tippingWe’re cracking down on fly-tipping In May a suspected fly tipper was media to dispose of their waste.in the borough and are currently arrested and taken into custody Unfortunately, more often than not,pursuing several investigations at Maidstone Police Station for these traders turn out to be rogueto secure prosecutions against further questioning in relation to a and do not dispose of the wastepersistent flytippers. Not only is fly- case of fly-tipping in George Street, using legal channels, resulting intipping anti-social, it is a crime! Maidstone. Since the start of the the home owners facing a fine of up year nine Fixed Penalty Notices to £5,000.Illegally dumping waste is (FPN) for waste offences relating topunishable by a fine of up fly-tipping and waste management We are urging residents to alwaysto £50,000 or 12 months have been issued. The fines ranged ask for the waste carriers numberimprisonment if convicted in a from £100 - £400 depending on the and, if in any doubt, to check withMagistrates’ Court. The offence can severity of the offence. the Environment Agency for fullattract an unlimited fine and up to 5 details of the company.years imprisonment. We are aware that not all people are knowingly fly-tipping. The council offers a reasonablySince January 2017 our Most residents are keen to act priced Bulky Waste CollectionEnforcement Officers have been responsibly and enlist the help service which residents can accessmeticulously preparing a series of of traders, often through social online at www.maidstone.gov.uklegal files and working with Kent’sRural Policing Team to secure maidstone.gov.ukconvictions. 11

Maidstone Museum500 Years of Board Games Summer Holiday ActivitiesG A2 1 M E P L A N3 1 3111 (4 -11years) Board Games Rediscovered Tuesday 25 July - Thursday 24 August*Are you a Scrabble Champion, Summer activities inspired by the Fun and creative things to makewannabe Chess Grandmaster or exhibition are also available to and do inspired by the Game Planserious Monopoly Megalomaniac? mini gamers aged between 4 and exhibition: 11years. Children can choose fromIf you love games then it’s time to a broad range of craft activities 25 - 27 July: ‘Snakes & Ladders’dust off those scrabble tiles and inspired by firm favourites like style. What will you choose to helphang on to your bishop as Game Snakes and Ladders; Draughts, your players move up and downPlan: Board Games Rediscovered Guess Who and Tic Tac Toe. the board?(V&A Museum of Childhood) rollsinto Maidstone Museum this In addition to the Game Plan 1 - 3 August: A ‘Guess Who?’ gamesummer! exhibition sponsors of the event Will you choose crazy characters and leading game publishers or museum figures for yourWhether you are 6 or 106 this Thames and Kosmos will be hosting guessing game?exhibition is an exciting experience a Games Night for over 18s on- a real trip through board game Thursday 27 July and Thursday 31 8 - 10 August: Draughts.nostalgia. Containing over 100 August. What will you choose as yourobjects displayed chronologically, playing pieces in this traditionalGame Plan looks at the way in which Both evenings will allow gamers to game?games have always reflected the try out one of the many new titlesworld around us and the importance on offer; from strategic to head- 15 - 17 August: Tic Tac Toeof games and game playing in scratching games, team-play to Have fun making character playingpeople’s lives. tile-turning, there’s a title for all pieces for this traditional game. players. Adults can book online (£5Alongside current family favourites per ticket) and join other players 22 - 24 August: Invent your own game!such as Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit, and experts will be on hand to help Start with a blank base board andand traditional games like chess, visitors avoid reading any rule use your imagination to createthe exhibition will focus on the last books! your own unique game.500 years from the first illustrated Suggested age 4-11 yearsrace game, the 16th century Game Game Plan Exhibition Ticket Prices: £3 per child, £5of Goose, to the most recent version Admission: £4 adults, £3 children, for 2 children, MMF concessionsof Monopoly. £12 Family (up to 4 people) available www.maidstonemuseum.org *Activities will take place on the day (T) 01622 602838 from 10.30am, 11.30am and 13.00pm facebook.com/MaidstoneMuseum until the last session at 14:00pm @MaidstoneMuseum Family Fun Day - Giant Board Games Saturday 19 August 10:30 - 15:00 Café Courtyard Join us to play some GIANT games including giant Connect 4, giant Dominoes, giant Snakes & Ladders and Twister. Drop in and join a game or bring some friends and play together. Tickets: £1 per person Monopoly, Waddingtons, England, 1936-39 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London12 maidstone.gov.uk

Maidstone MuseumTake a step back in time with Ancient LivesThis September, Maidstone Museum is The new Ancient Lives Gallery willopening a new gallery full of exciting be housed in the oldest part of theartefacts from the Ancient Greeks and building in St Faith’s Street, whichEgyptians. Not only will visitors be able to was built in 1562. The 27 metre-longsee objects from the two iconic civilisations gallery was originally built with thebut they’ll will also be taken on a journey purpose to connect the then newlythrough the lives of the people, exploring built Tudor Hall, what is now thethem at home, at work, in public and in central ‘heart’ of the museum, to thedeath. Medieval House which once stood on the site. As part of this project,One of the most exciting attractions in the the museum is installing a lift. Thisnew gallery is the mummy, Ta Kush, who is will take visitors into the new gallerya visitor favourite at the museum. Maidstone and also to the floor above, makingMuseum is the only museum in Kent that has the Tudor areas of the museuma mummy, and, being the star of the Egyptian accessible for the first time in its 500-collection, she will now be housed in her own year history.space in the new gallery. Displayed with her,for the first time ever, will be her beautiful The gallery has been createdcoffin lid, decorated with the goddess Nut. alongside the Kent Association forVisitors can now also meet Ta Kush, as the Blind, who have advised on adisplayed with her will be the never before design for the visually impaired, sorevealed 3D model of her face, which visitors that all visitors can experience thecan see and touch. This reconstruction of new space. The museums youthher face has been created through new group, Cur8, aged 12-24, have alsoresearch, which has added new information been working on the project to createnot only about Ta Kush but also about other interactive and hands-on activities formummified remains, including animals. all to enjoy.Visitors can find out about the techniquesused to source this information in a special For further information about the‘Investigate’ area situated in the gallery. The new gallery and current exhibitions atcharacters and expeditions which brought Maidstone Museum, visitthe collections back to Maidstone are also www.maidstonemuseum.org orshown as part of the collection. call 01622 602838.Family Arts Award DayThe EgyptiansSaturday 23 September Upon completion a certificate is awarded10:00 - 16:00pm by Trinity. Please note, children’s work isStudio moderated by the team and certificates are ordered on completion. Delivery ofEgyptian-themed Arts Award. We are certificates can take 6-8 weeks. A Museumexcited to offer children aged 5+ the certificate is awarded on completion of theopportunity to gain a Discover Arts day and the official Arts Award CertificateAward through our ‘Discover in a Day’ will be sent or can be collected once theypackage. Children, with a parent/guardian, arrive here.investigate different art forms, find outabout our Egyptian collection, create a This is a full day, with a 30-45 min lunchpiece of art and share their work, all in one break, so please bring a packed lunch, orday. Limited availability of just 15 spaces eat in our cafe.for children, accompanied by one adult. Allresources are provided. Tickets: £20 per child maidstone.gov.uk 13

Culture and events the gift of Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt- the first of its kind in Britain and is Drake, 12-time Mayor of Maidstone. still viewed as one of the finest inMaidstone Carriage He began collecting carriages when Europe.Museum he realised that the horse-drawn vehicles of his childhood were The museum is open Friday,Located on Mill Street in the being forced off the road by the Saturday and Sunday from 12nooncentre of Maidstone, the Carriage motor car. Thanks to his energy and to 4pm.Museum offers an insight into the enthusiasm, Maidstone Carriage For further information visit:fascinating history of transport Museum opened in 1946 and was www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk/and is home to a unique collection our-museums/carriage-museum/of horse-drawn vehicles andtransport curiosities. Morethan 60 vehicles are on display,ranging from grand carriagessuch as Queen Victoria’s StateLandau, to antique sedan chairsand Victorian ‘growlers’.Housed in the 14th-century stablesof the medieval Archbishop’sPalace complex used by theArchbishop of Canterbury whentravelling through the county, theCarriage Museum collection was You know that feeling when you can’t stop eating because everything tastes so good? Welcome to Shemomedjamo, a new festival named after the Georgian phrase for doing just that. This September, Mote Park will play host to the new Maidstone Food and Drink Festival. It is estimated that this new three day event running from 1st – 3rd of September will attract around 25,000 visitors. The festival will focus on a free-to-enter food and drink market with an additional entertainment programme including live music, a programme of multi-cultural entertainment and street theatre. Dawn Hudd, Head of Regeneration and Economic Development said: “This festival builds upon the past events the council has supported but gives residents and visitors a unique offer that celebrates the food, drink and craft found within the growing and diverse community within the borough. The setting of Mote Park will add to the atmosphere of the occasion and I hope many people will enjoy the event.”14 maidstone.gov.uk

Culture and eventsThe unveiling of the Battle ofMaidstone memorialThe 1st of June marked the house to house through the town,369th anniversary of the Battle towards Gabriels Hill, then Weekof Maidstone during the Second Street before a last desperateEnglish Civil War. stand and break-out from St Faith’s Churchyard.To commemorate the Battle ofMaidstone a memorial has been Lord-General Thomas Fairfax’screated and installed on the precise seasoned Parliamentarianspot where the last desperate troopers, numbering approximatelystand of Maidstone’s Royalist 4000, which included Colonel Johndefenders took place in 1648 (now Pickering’s Regiment of Foot whichpart of Brenchley Gardens). went on to notoriety for its actions in Ireland in the following years,This pivotal battle saw its opening finally overcame the fierce Royalistskirmishes ‘hedge to hedge’ on rebel resistance and took control ofthe fringes of Maidstone at East the County Town just after midnightFarleigh Bridge and then Penenden during a raging thunderstorm.Heath, followed by brutal urbanwarfare fought street to street and Beautiful Blooms MAIDSTONE FARMERS’ MARKETThe Friends of South Park have raisedfunds to restore the rose garden in South Maidstone Farmers’ MarketPark (High Street Ward) to its 1930’s glory.This worthy project was supported by Jubilee Square, High Street ME14 1SAMaidstone Borough Council groundsmenand a team of dedicated volunteers 4th Friday of every monthworked to renovate the beds and completethe planting over winter 2016 and early 10am TO 2pmspring this year. 28 Jul 2017 24 Nov 2017 23 Mar 2018Their efforts have now been rewarded with 25 Aug 2017 22 Dec 2017 27 Apr 2018the roses in full bloom for the first time. 22 Sep 2017 26 Jan 2018 25 May 2018 27 Oct 2017 23 Feb 2018 22 Jun 2018Alongside this restoration, the pavilion(which was very tired and in danger of beingdemolished due to lack of use) has beenleased to the Nepalese community followinga full scale renovation.The space has not only attracted use by theNepalese community but is also enjoyedby the Friends of South Park and anincreasing number of local clubs and socialorganisations.Both success stories prove what can beachieved when communities get together, rollup their sleeves and make things happen! maidstone.gov.uk 15

RegenerationRegenerating the Town CentreWe have been inviting A significant change will be What happens next?residents to view the the creation of a level surfaceplanned improvements throughout the areas, giving As part of the consultation processfor the town as part of a more pedestrian feel. The the council also spoke with identifiedthe Public Realm Project designs also show a timeline stakeholders about the specific details of(phase three). Residents running the entire length of the the project.of Maidstone have been street, marking key points inable to view the proposed Maidstone’s history. A website was also created to allowdesigns during a six people to view the designs: http://www.week consultation and The overarching vision and maidstone.gov.uk/business/regenerationengagement period. designs draw upon the rich heritage of Maidstone, Now the feedback has been received,The areas targeted for incorporating ‘ squares’ at key detailed designs will be produced and theregeneration include Week junctions along the roads to link work will be put out to tender. ConstructionStreet and Maidstone East with side roads. is anticipated to start early 2018.Station up to Jubilee Square.Improvements will continue An example of this is the junctionthrough Gabriel’s Hill, into with St Faith’s Street, IguanodonLower Stone Street and will Square, which has been designedfinish at the junction with to create a link to the MaidstonePalace Avenue, outside Gala Museum and to remind visitorsBingo. that an iguanodon skeleton was found in the borough. FREMLIN WALK Maidstone House What’s it like to live in your local area? Which services are important to you and do you feel informed about what the council does for you? These are just some of the questions we will be asking you as part of this year’s Residents’ Survey. The results will be used to see how well we are delivering the services that matter most to you and to decide what things we may need to do differently in the future. By getting your views we can make sure our priorities match yours as we plan our services. The survey takes no more than 20 minutes to complete and can be filled in online at www.maidstone.gov.uk/residents-survey Survey closes Sunday 20th August 2017.16 maidstone.gov.uk

Spotlight OnLet’s talk about… Staplehurst!In each edition of our magazine, the community and surrounding as producing their own applewe’ll be turning the spotlight areas with the amazing products juice and also running a thrivingon one of our beautiful rural that they enjoy to make. farm shop. The shop enjoys beingvillages. For this first focus, we’d Staplehurst is a thriving village situated in Staplehurst because itlike to share some interesting with a charming personality, and is “a nice village and local peopleobservations with you about Becca said that “the community are are really nice” says Albert BreachStaplehurst: very passionate about supporting who works there. Albert also says: small businesses.” “Although everybody in the villageStaplehurst is a growing village has their own little favourite placeswith a wonderfully diverse The delightful village has lots to shop, the local community iscommunity, and is proud to be to offer the artisan group, with exceedingly supportive of thehome to a lovely artisan collective opportunities to sell their unique, family run business. The farm shopcalled Staplehurst Makers. high quality produce at craft fairs is dedicated to its customers, andStaplehurst Makers is a group of and shopping evenings run by the has an extensive range of productstalented artisans and tradespeople village play group and primary for them to enjoy.” Chittenden Farmthat come together to hand-make school, where people very quickly Shop also receives visitors fromtruly bespoke products which are come to know and support the the surrounding villages, includingsold locally. They offer a diverse local, independent businesses. Cranbrook, Frittenden andrange of products including Hawkenbury. The farm shop addsjewellery, home décor, candles, Chittenden Farm Shop is a hidden to the charm of Staplehurst, whichcoffee, greeting cards and art, all gem in the village that attracts is also enhanced by the wonderfulproduced in the village. visitors from across Kent. It is a pub, The Kings Head, which the local family run farm that supplies community is also proud of.A member of Staplehurst Makers, apples to many producers as wellBecca Manning, says that she lovesrunning the business in the villagebecause“Staplehurst has a verysupportive community. Weall work to support eachother and champion eachother’s skills through theStaplehurst Makers group.”Homemade produce is becomingincreasingly popular and istrending right across the country,and the Staplehurst Makers groupprides itself on being able to supply maidstone.gov.uk 17

FREE GYM, SWIM& WORKOUTCLASSESEXTENSIVE GYM SWIMMING AQUA AEROBICSOur friendly, expert team is here to help you reachyour fitness goals, and have fun along the way.Activate your free 7 day trial* today, book ano-obligation tour at www.maidstoneleisure.comMaidstone Leisure CentreMote Park, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7RNTel: 01622 220213 MaidstoneLeisure*Terms and conditions apply. Not valid for current memberships or More than just a gym.18 memberships which have expired within the last 90 days. maidstone.gov.uk

Online Services Helping to reduce floodingResidents living in eight parishes The Environment Agency is working and those that are suitable willin or around Maidstone who are at with Maidstone Borough Council be offered a more detailed surveyvery significant risk of flooding are (MBC) and Kent County Council (KCC) where resistant measures will bebeing offered the chance to help as part of The Middle Medway Flood identified such as flood doors andprotect their homes. Resilience Scheme. The scheme toilet seals, all of which are fullyThe Environment Agency has aims to reduce flood risks to homes funded by the scheme. Surveyors in these areas by a combination of will also recommend property levelcontacted those living in 453 homes, resistance and resilience measures. resilience measures, however these These include restricting water will not be funded.near where the Rivers Medway, entering a property, keeping water away from a collection of properties Phase 2 will consider communityBeult and Teise meet, to look at and enabling the community to resistance and resilience measures function if flooding occurs. such as walls, embankments,measures which will restrict water temporary flood defences, sand- The scheme is split into two phases, bag stores and community floodentering their property. The homes the first looking at individual plans. These will ensure properties property level measures, and the that are not suited to individualthat have been identified as ‘at very second considering community property level resistance measures level resistance and resilience may still benefit through improvedsignificant risk of flooding’ are in the measures. As part of phase 1 community level measures. homeowners who received lettersfollowing areas: in areas identified at very significant For more information about risk have been asked to fill out property level resilience measuresYalding East Farleigh an online questionnaire, and the and how to protect your home,Hunton West Farleigh scheme has offered free flood risk please visit the National FloodCollier Street Wateringbury surveys to those homes. Surveyors Forum website at https://Marden Nettlestead have begun assessing properties, nationalfloodforum.org.uk/.Digital Forms The Council’s Digital Team Leader or smart phone you can visit The Paul O’Grady said ‘Over the last few Maidstone Link on King StreetWith technology expanding the years we have seen a real increase and use our self-help tablets orway it has in recent years, it is in the use of our online services. computers with help from ourno surprise that it is easier than They now account for over 40% of all Customer Service advisers if youever to access the internet and all transactions with the Council and this need it.that it beholds. In the UK 87.9% figure is increasing all the time.’of adults have used the internet To find out more please visitwithin the last three months, and The website and its services are Maidstone.gov.uk/services and if youa staggering 99.2% of adults aged easily reachable from all devices, would like to be part of our Digital16- 34 are recent internet users. On but if you do not have a computer Engagement Group please emailaverage, mobile users spend two [email protected] online on a daily basis, and50% of online traffic is from mobile Pay Council Tax oudevices. Moving House OrdeRreaPnaeByiwfnBaoorPoaakrGakiaBrnudglekPnyerBCiomnliltectionThe quickest and easiest way to AdPlviacOnernidneCrg aRneGcpialorrTdtaexanDBiMiisnscosuendtBAipnplicationaccess Council services is using acomputer or smart phone. Maidstone Top 10 Online Data source taken up to May 2017Borough Council have over 80 Forms 2017services that can be accessed online DATA BASED ON THE HIGHEST NUMBER OFranging from renewing a parking ACCESSED FORMSpermit to looking up planningapplications or even booking a venue.Council services are highly accessibleon the website, with some of the topforms including paying council tax,moving house and bulky collection. maidstone.gov.uk 19

Your Councillors East WardYour Councillors Martin Cox2017 - 2018 01622 688945 Conservatives Boxley Ward [email protected] Liberal Democrats Derek Butler Nikki Fissenden Labour 01634 684854 01622 755494 Independent [email protected] [email protected] UK Independence Party Malcom Greer David Naghi Allington Ward 01634 862876 01622 678410 Dan Daley [email protected] [email protected] 01622 672459 Wendy Hinder Fant Ward [email protected] 01634 861579 Keith Adkinson Diana Lewins [email protected] 01622 201976 01622 766075 Bridge Ward [email protected] [email protected] Georgia Harvey Matt Boughton Cynthia Robertson [email protected] 07795 192042 01622 753517 David Pickett [email protected] [email protected] 01622 681889 Paul Harper Barming Ward [email protected] 01622 763895 Fay Gooch Coxheath and Hunton [email protected] Ward 01622 726608 Harrietsham and Emily Fermor Lenham Ward [email protected] 07809 472788 Janetta Sams Bearsted Ward [email protected] 01622 859412 Mike Cuming Brian Mortimer [email protected] 01622 738825 01622 746046 Tom Sams [email protected] [email protected] 01622 859412 Denis Spooner Richard Webb [email protected] 01622 631944 01622 745716 Headcorn Ward [email protected] [email protected] Shellina Prendergast Val Springett Detling and Thurnham shellinaprendergast@ 01622 737702 Ward maidstone.gov.uk [email protected] Nick de Wiggondene Martin Round Boughton Monchelsea 01622 200222 01622 890276 and Chart Sutton Ward [email protected] [email protected] Steve Munford Downswood and Otham Heath Ward 01622 741310 Ward Bryan Vizzard [email protected] Gordon Newton 07957 44299420 01622 862330 [email protected] [email protected] James Willis maidstone.gov.uk 07838 103350 [email protected]

High Street Ward Michael Hemsley Staplehurst Ward Clive English 01622 686773 Louise Brice 07922 616858 [email protected] 01580 892141 [email protected] Park Wood Ward [email protected] Denise Joy Matthew Burton John Perry 01622 674063 07793 243462 07770 734741 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Fran Wilson Jade Webster Sutton Valence and Langley Ward 01622 673349 07590 592916 Paulina Stockell [email protected] [email protected] 01622 842508Leeds Ward Shepway North Ward [email protected] Gill Fort Simon Ells Service Committees 01622 861605 07980 068792 Policy and Resources [email protected] [email protected] Chairman: Fran Wilson Vice Chairman: Paul HarperLoose Ward Christopher Garland Communities, Housing and Environment Susan Grigg 07903 113571 Chairman: John Barned Vice Chairman: Derek Mortimer 07706 052495 [email protected] Heritage, Culture and Leisure Chairman: David Pickett [email protected] Marion Ring Vice Chairman: Simon Ells Strategic Planning, SustainabilityMarden and Yalding 01622 686492 and TransportWard Chairman: David Burton [email protected] Vice Chairman: Martin Cox Annabelle Blackmore Shepway South Ward Other Committees 01622 833299 Eddie Powell Planning annabelleblackmore@maidstone. Chairman: Clive English gov.uk 01622 851983 Vice Chairman: Martin Round Licensing David Burton [email protected] Chairman: Denise Joy Vice Chairman: Wendy Hinder 07590 229910 John Barned Employment Chairman: Fay Gooch [email protected] 01622 851142 Vice Chairman: Susan Grigg Audit, Governance and Standards Steve McLoughlin [email protected] Chairman: Steve McLoughlin Vice Chairman: Clive English 07711 565489 South Ward Democracy Chairman: Gordon Newton [email protected] Brian Clark Vice Chairman: Nikki Fissenden Maidstone Joint Transportation BoardNorth Downs Ward 07963 757767 Chairman: David Burton Vice Chairman: Eric Hotson (KCC) Patrik Garten [email protected] 01622 807907 Derek Mortimer [email protected] 07825 916930North Ward [email protected] Tony Harwood Paul Wilby 01622 677578 07949 769276 [email protected] [email protected] Michelle Hastie There are 55 Councillors: [email protected] • Conservative 23 • Labour 2 • Liberal Democrat 22 • Independent • UK Independence Party 4 4 maidstone.gov.uk 21

Your Mayor Spotlight on The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Malcolm Greer The new Mayor What are your chosen charities for your of Maidstone, Mayoral year? Councillor Malcolm Greer • The Blackthorn Trust is looking forward • The Maidstone Sea Cadets and to an action-packed • Kent Lung Awareness Group year full of exciting events, business What do you love most about Maidstone? conferences and charity galas. The diverse character of Maidstone. We have a good Town Centre and equally - beautiful countryside. Since becoming Mayor in May I very much appreciate the Business Community inof this year he has attended lots of events and is both the rural and urban areas who bring so much topassionate about working together with businesses Maidstone, the County Town of Kent.to help spread the news about the many opportunitiesthat the borough presents for existing businesses and What’s your favourite place to visit in the borough?new start-ups. Difficult to pick; however, I do love Mote Park!Maidstone is a thriving, vibrant and dynamic place tolive, work and visit and here are just a few things he If you could change one thing in the boroughenjoys about the borough. what would it be and why?What are you enjoying most so far about being I would love to see the area of St. Peter’s StreetMayor of Maidstone? redeveloped to enhance the view and use of the river.Meeting so many interesting people, especially At present this site is occupied by ‘tin boxes’. Thesethe many volunteers who enable many charities could possibly be relocated to J7, the Notcutts site.to operate. Where would we be without these This would cut traffic considerably during peakextraordinary volunteers? periods, which in turn, would enhance the air quality of the Town Centre. In my opinion this would open up fantastic views of the river, and could accommodate recreational amenities, appropriate business use and attract tourism. NEW DEMELZA DISTRIBUTION CENTRE IN MAIDSTONEDemelza’s main warehouse and distribution centre is Plans for the new home of the Distribution Centre willmoving from its current location in Sittingbourne to its offer career opportunities to the local community. Newnew premises in Maidstone Town Centre this summer. staff roles and volunteering posts will be available in areas such as Gift Aid administration, furniture retailDemelza’s new Distribution Centre will be located at and upcycling, book/literary sorters and graders,the former Royal Mail site in Sandling Road, with an bric-a-brac specialists, and e-commerce marketing.adjacent Demelza retail outlet that will mean the public Demelza will also be able to offer numerouswill be able to donate, access and purchase goods all in volunteering placements including work experienceone area. placements for over 18’s, those wanting to return into the workplace, and those who have skills and expertiseThe move to a larger, more centrally located site will they would like to share for a brilliant cause.provide generous stock sorting space and storage aswell as offering dedicated parking to those dropping off Demelza Chief Executive, Ryan Campbell says ofdonations. The size of the premises will allow Demelza the move: “We’re very much looking forward to ourto upcycle furniture, create a recycling and ragging area, warehouse moving into its new home. The spacesort donations to ensure that goods are allocated to the the new site offers will be invaluable to our storagebest suited outlets, and store seasonal stock, ensuring it solutions and the central location will hopefully bring inis distributed to all shops in good time. a whole host of new Demelza donators and shoppers.”22 maidstone.gov.uk

CYORUERASETLEFA better future CHECK OUT OUR PROGRAMMES & APPLY ONLINE TODAYw w w.midkent .ac.uk 23 maidstone.gov.uk

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