Lee Castle Reporting Back: April 2026

April has flown by, as it always seems to do.

This month I have been busy dealing with casework across all the villages. The slight delay in my monthly report is due to today’s decision by the Liberal Democrats in Canterbury to leave the coalition, which means the council is now being run by Labour without overall control.

As a Cabinet Member over the past year, this brings mixed feelings. I am disappointed not to be able to complete all the projects I have been working on. However, I was deeply concerned by the expectation from the Labour leadership that our councillors should vote in a particular way on planning matters. I was elected to represent the views of residents, and being directed by another party is not in the best interests of our communities.

Many residents may not notice immediate changes, but over the coming weeks the way the council operates may look different as it adjusts to having no overall control.

In terms of casework, I have been involved in a range of issues across the villages. 

In Ickham, this has included footpaths and planning matters, while in Wickhambreaux I have dealt with both a planning issue and housing casework. 

In Littlebourne, I was saddened to see the resignation of the Parish Council Chair, Cllr Peter Farrow, who has worked tirelessly in recent years, particularly in opposing large-scale development in the village. 

In Adisham, Parish Council Chair Cllr Liz Collins sadly also stepped down after many years of service.

I would like to thank both Chairs for their dedication to their communities and for the support they have given me in my role. I am confident both parish councils will continue their good work, and I would encourage anyone interested in getting involved to contact their local parish clerk, as parish councils are regularly look for new members.

Elsewhere, in Bekesbourne with Patrixbourne I have been dealing with casework relating to footpaths, boundary issues, water leaks and road markings. 

In Adisham, I have been assisting with parking and housing issues, while in Littlebourne I have continued work on footpaths, parking, highways matters and planning.

As always, please do get in touch if there is anything I can assist with.

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