Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 26th June 2019) below:
Fire Changes
Last week shock proposals were unveiled to scrap overnight full-time fire cover at Paignton Fire Station and remove one of the two “on call” pumps at Torquay Fire Station.
The proposals if implemented would leave only 1 Fire Engine fully crewed 24/7 in our bay, at Torquay Fire Station, despite us being the second largest conurbation in the area served by the Brigade.
The number of fires fell by 36% in Devon and Somerset over 10 years from 2008/9 to 2017/18, while last year saw the lowest number of domestic fires ever recorded across both counties at 929. Yet 24/7 full-time cover in Paignton, one of Devon's largest towns, is still a vital service. Buildings such as Oldway Mansion, hotels and housing nearby need a very quick initial response when things go wrong.
Whilst resources to tackle larger fires such as the one at Shedden Hall Hotel can be moved in when needed, getting the first pump on site as quickly as possible is vital.
I will be working with Torbay’s Councillors to oppose these plans and am arranging an urgent meeting with local FBU Representatives.
Crossways
The rundown Crossways Shopping Centre was front page news as Torbay’s Councillors met to discuss options for it last Wednesday.
This eyesore has blighted Paignton for too long. There have been many attempts to work with the owner on a redevelopment scheme, yet the building has been left to rot. The Government should review the position with Compulsory Purchase Powers to give Councils, including Torbay, an easier path to dealing with derelict commercial buildings.
As the old B&Q in Torre is refurbished and Torwood St’s multi-million pound development continues, I am happy to give Torbay Council whatever help I can in dealing with this mess, including volunteering to help with demolition works if needed.
Feeling Popular
The parliamentary stage of the Conservative Party Leadership contest reached its climax last week.
I was part of Sajid Javid’s Campaign Team making me very popular from 1pm till 3:30pm on Thursday when he was knocked out of the contest and just two votes decided who would appear on the ballot paper with Boris Johnson!!!
More in Common
It is three years since Jo Cox was taken from us in an act of senseless violence, yet her legacy lives on.
On Sunday I attended the Great Get Together event in St Marychurch arranged by Meg Jolliffe. Whilst it was wet outside, the atmosphere was warm inside with neighbours, friends and political folk coming together for a chat, tea and some delicious cakes.
I spoke about my memories of Jo, reflecting on how in the present times her reminder of us having more in common than that which divides us, is all the more important.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries will be on Saturday 29th June from 11am till 1pm at The Acorn Centre, Lummaton Cross, Torquay, TQ2 8ET and Saturday 13th July from 11am till 1pm at Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay TQ1 3DT.
Just call 01803 214 989 or e-mail me at [email protected] to book a slot. You can drop in, but appointments are recommended to avoid a long wait or disappointment. My team also run drop in surgery sessions Mon to Friday 10am -1pm at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD.
