Mike Sole Reporting Back: June 2026

It can take a long time for get things done as the work of councils can be painfully slow. Sometimes there are issues where it seems as if progress will never be made, but with perseverance and patience, solutions and funding are sometimes found. One example of this is the new drainage works that have now been completed between Barham and Breech. I raised the issue of flooding here several years ago with KCC, and I’m delighted that it has now been addressed following further engagement with the drainage team. This will improve road safety.

On 14 July we are expecting to hear what the geographical boundaries are for the new unitary councils in Kent. We are less than a year away from elections to those new councils and in 2028 both KCC and CCC will cease to exist. There is a lot to get done in a very short timeframe. With these changes coming it has also been very interesting to listen to the views of parish councils that as part of the CCC Community Governance Review are considering how they might like to operate in the future, perhaps by expanding or working closer together.

The Joint Transportation Board was attended by the managing director of Stagecoach South East. I raised the issue of the failure of KCC to agree an improved bus service in Thanington, despite holding over £750,000 from developers to do so. I also asked that the evening service of the 17 be reinstated. I am awaiting a reply on both of these points.

I held a councillor surgery in Littlebourne with Little Stour Councillor Lee Castle. It was good to discuss a variety of issues with local residents.

We seem to be making some progress with keeping public access to the various sites at St Augustine’s as the council have now written to all landowners to let them know of their obligations.

At the end of July I will be meeting with KCC to discuss the Highway Improvement Plans for all 16 parish councils in my KCC area. I have also been following up issues around the safety of cyclists passing through the ford in Drill Lane, Ickham and this is now being investigated. Also being looked into are what safety improvements can be put in place at the junction of the A2 slip road and Bifrons Hill.

Canterbury City Council Biodiversity grants scheme is open until 24 July – check their website for details or contact me and I will share further information.

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