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Summary
The Ashford Council Cabinet meeting on 27 June 2024 focused on the approval of the draft Borough Plan 2024-2028 for public consultation, discussions about the upcoming D Day 80th Anniversary events, and the reception of the Civic Events Advisory Committee notes. The Disabled Facility Grant Policy item was withdrawn.
Draft Borough Plan 2024-28
The Cabinet reviewed the draft Borough Plan 2024-2028, which outlines the strategic vision and objectives for the Council over the next four years. The plan is structured around three themes: Planet, People, and Places. The draft plan will now go to public consultation to gather further input before its final adoption later in the year.
Some members expressed concerns about the plan's lack of detail and ambition. Specific criticisms included the omission of emerging plans for a town centre market, the Ashford Parks Foundation, and the role of the Bring Back Euro Trains group. There were also calls for more emphasis on green corridors and the Odeon project. Additionally, there were questions about the suitability and measurability of some success metrics in the plan. One member highlighted the need for the consultation to target businesses and support small start-ups.
The Leader acknowledged these concerns, noting that the new administration had intentionally taken a light touch with the plan, inheriting several ongoing projects from the previous Corporate Plan. The Leader assured that feedback from the public consultation would be considered to refine both the Borough Plan and the Local Plan.
A member also raised a petition from a resident against the use of glyphosate for weed killing, seeking clarity on the Council's position. The Deputy Leader confirmed that while the Council currently uses glyphosate, they are exploring financially viable alternatives.
The Cabinet resolved to approve the draft Borough Plan for public consultation.
Civic Events Advisory Committee – Notes of 6 March 2024
The Portfolio Holder reported on the Civic Events Advisory Committee meeting held on 6 March 2024, which discussed the arrangements for the 80th Anniversary of D Day on 6 June 2024. Councillor Hayward provided an update on the planned events, which include:
- A flag-raising ceremony at the Civic Centre at 9am.
- A commemorative ceremony at the Memorial Gardens at 11am, featuring the re-installation of the Floral Spitfire, a performance by a primary school choir, and readings by secondary school pupils.
- A beacon lighting ceremony in Civic Park at 9.15pm, with the Mayor announcing the lighting of Ashford’s Civic Memorial Beacon.
Educational activity sheets focused on D Day will be distributed to all primary schools in the Borough, with a special focus on the Ashford area. The Council has also created a D Day 80 webpage to promote local events.
The Cabinet resolved to receive and note the notes of the Civic Events Advisory Committee meeting.
Schedule of Key Decisions
The Cabinet reviewed and noted the latest Schedule of Key Decisions.
Disabled Facility Grant Policy
The Disabled Facility Grant Policy item was withdrawn from the agenda.
Attendees









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