The biggest shock since my last newsletter was the decision by the Deputy Prime Minister to ‘call in’ the Highsted Park development. This means the Government will decide whether it goes ahead, rather than Swale Borough Council. It’s unusual for a minister to step in like this, and odd that the news came moments before local councillors were due to make their own decision. I’ve written to her here to find out what’s going on, and have written to the Appeal Inspector here voicing local concerns. If you have strong views about the Highsted Park developments I advise you to express them to the Appeal Inspector: Alison Dyson at [email protected] before 3 January so they can be taken into account. I’ll keep you up updated on progress with this, not only because it affects lots of people but also because if this becomes a trend, it’ll have serious consequences across the constituency. Finally, I would like to thank everyone who volunteers their time and money to make Christmas such a special time of year. Whether that's volunteering for charity or helping put up the local Christmas lights - your efforts are invaluable in making Christmas such a magical time of the year. | 
