Monday: Oversight and Scrutiny
This week started with Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee. We looked at the proposed Council advertising policy which went far beyond what the law requires. It would have banned adverts for flights, cruises, airports, hybrid (non-plug-in) cars, fossil fuels, fast food and more.
We recommended sticking with the existing legal restrictions. Going further would only cut council revenue and add unnecessary complexity.
We also reviewed the Council Plan. Interestingly, the Lib Dem Leader has rediscovered his enthusiasm for a combined mayoral authority – despite opposing it before. He claims it will help with joint infrastructure bids, but when I asked about the badly needed Third Thames Bridge, he said Oxfordshire still havent agreed.
Personally, I remain sceptical. A combined authority risks less local control and more cost for taxpayers. With powers over transport, housing, skills, the economy and even health, it would be far worse and more remote than the old Berkshire County Council.
Finally, we heard about actions the council is taking to push back on Labour’s plans to cut local funding by £50m. Conservatives are backing this fight with a local petition – please do sign it to make your voice heard.
Tuesday: Urgent Briefing & Durga Puja
Tuesday began with an urgent court case briefing, followed by the Durga Puja at St Anne’s Manor. It was a real pleasure to speak with so many local residents there.
Wednesday: NATO & Security
On Wednesday I attended a fascinating talk by the Director General of RUSI on NATO’s future role. A timely subject given the global situation.
Thursday: Active Travel & a Leak!
Thursday was the Active Travel Task and Finish Group. I pushed for a focus on safe walking and cycling routes from catchment areas to schools. This would make a real difference, giving parents an alternative to the school run by car.
Friday: Waste & Environment
Friday was the Shadow Portfolio meeting on Waste and Environment. I’d raised concerns about weeds on roadsides previously. Some have now been cleared, but Hatch Farm Way remains stubborn – it will be tackled again next week.
Saturday: Out With Residents
On Saturday I was out with the team – joined by Theresa and Philip May – speaking with residents in Sonning. The Third Thames Bridge, Twyford parking and congestion were the main issues raised.
Casework Highlights
It’s also been a busy week for casework. Some of the issues I’ve been dealing with include:
- Sofa fly-tipping at Loddon Valley (being sorted by Leisure Centre management despite it not being their problem).
- Supporting a resident who was assaulted in getting police attention.
- Meeting on the Local Plan and its impact on traffic.
- Chasing long-standing parking problems in Wilderness Road.
- Dealing with waste processing in a residential area.
- Resolving a confidential concern for a resident.
- Finalising a licensing appeal decision (which I chaired).
💬 Get Involved
- 🖊️ Sign the petition to stop Labour’s £50m local funding cut. https://www.earleyandwoodleyconservatives.org.uk/LocalTaxLocalServices
- 📩 If you have a local issue or casework concern, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
- 🚪 And of course, if you see us out and about on the doorstep – do stop for a chat!
