Billingshurst Horticultural Show on Saturday was a joy! Getting people together of all ages to “compete” on everything from photography to fruit and veg is a lovely tradition and it’s alive and well in the village with well over 400 entries and a lovely atmosphere.
Many constituents will be aware that Gatwick recently submitted to the Planning Inspectorate its application for its plans to bring the Northern Runway into routine use. This is a long process of which this submission is one of the early steps.
Prior to the submission, working with our local Councils, I co-ordinated a letter, co-signed by 11 of my neighbouring parliamentary colleagues, to Gatwick supporting the concerns of the local authorities on the adequacy and timeliness of the analysis they have provided.
Gatwick’s plans, if approved, could have a significant impact on our region. The potential employment and economic benefits can only be considered fully alongside the implications for the environment, residents living close to the airport and wider infrastructure.
It is of vital importance that Gatwick engages fully and collaboratively with all local stakeholders throughout this process. I continue to be in regular contact with local parish councils, campaigners, local authorities and neighbouring MPs about these proposals.
Many constituents will also be aware of the consultation that is currently running on ticket offices at railway stations. GTR have set out how, following discussion with the Unions, they intend to move staff from behind the ticket office screens to more accessible around stations to better support customers.
I recognise that ticket offices now only account for around 10 per cent of transactions (down from 33 per cent a decade ago). However, we want to be assured that changes are appropriate and will support customers.
I would urge constituents with an interest to also respond to the consultation, which is being run by Transport Focus – the independent transport user watchdog. The consultation closes on Friday 1st September – you can respond to it here: https://www.transportfocus.org.uk/ticket-office-consultation/; or you can email: ticketoffice.GTR@transportfocus.org.uk. or find the link and more details via my website at www.jeremyquin.com.