Joint Ashford Borough Council and
Localism and Ashford’s Growth
Cllr Paul Bartlett, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, welcomed the announcement in the recent budget that the Government intends to bring about greater local control over regional economic development.
“This is another clear demonstration by the coalition Government that it intends to honour its commitment to localism through robust actions and concrete policies. We look forward to the publication this summer of the White Paper which will set out the full details of the Local
“In the meantime, we will be contacting the Secretary of State setting out our vision as to how the growth agenda for Ashford can best be taken forward in the new enlightened era of localism.
“I, and the majority of my fellow Councillors, believe that the imminent restructuring of our economic development partners, the Government’s commitment to reducing unaffordable public spending, the local impact of the recession, and the philosophy of localism have all come together to create a ‘perfect storm’ that necessitates a fundamental reassessment of the existing growth vehicles.
“The way forward lies, I believe, in a partnership between Ashford Borough Council and Kent County Council, who, together with appropriate private sector partners, would provide strategic direction to Ashford’s growth.
“Such a restructuring will bring about greater local accountability and transparency, will enhance local democratic control for, and by, the people of Ashford and Kent and will do so at a significantly reduced level of operational expenditure.
“Whatever the eventual structure, we shall, of course, continue to work closely with other organisations involved in helping us to deliver Ashford’s growth, such as the Highways Agency, Natural England, English Heritage and the Environment Agency.
“Clearly, these are early days, but my team of Officers and elected Members look forward to exploring in greater depth the real opportunities created for Ashford by the Government’s emerging policies.”
Kevin Lynes, Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said, “Central government has rightly challenged us all to play our part in the economic recovery whilst ensuring that our growth and regeneration plans remain on track. I look forward to working with Ashford Borough Council in finding the best way of delivering in the years ahead.”
