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NOTICE OF ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
FOR ROLVENDEN
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT –
The Annual Parish Meeting for Rolvenden will be held at Rolvenden Village Hall, Maytham Road, Rolvenden on Thursday 16 April 2026 at 7.30pm.
The business to be transacted at the Meeting will be as follows:
- Chairman’s welcome
- Apologies for absence to be accepted
- Chairman’s Introduction and Report
- MP Katie Lam Report (to be read out by the Chairman)
- Kent County Councillor’s Report
- Ashford Borough Councillor’s Report
- KALC Community Award
- Reports from Village Charitable Trusts
- War Memorial Trust
- Basil Russell Trust
- Gibbons Educational Trust
- Rolvenden non-ecclesiastical charities
- Reports from Village Organisations
- Village Hall Management Committee
- Royal British Legion
- Neighbourhood Watch
- Rolvenden School
- St Mary the Virgin Church, Rolvenden
- Cricket Club
- Football Club
- Tennis Club
- Rolvenden allotments
- Gardening Society
- Rolvenden History Society
- Others
- Open Forum
Light refreshments will be served at the end of the meeting.
Antony Hinge
Parish Council Chairman
Welcome to the Website of Rolvenden Parish Council.
If there is anything that you feel the Parish Council should be aware of or there is something we can help you with
please contact Louise Goldsmith (Clerk)
email: [email protected] or call 07900 693572
Rolvenden Neighbourhood Plan Review – Community Survey
What’s happening?
Rolvenden Parish Council is reviewing our Neighbourhood Plan for the parish. The Neighbourhood Plan is a document that contains planning policies that are used to help determine planning applications for development within our Parish. It sits alongside the Local Plan for Ashford Borough Council, carrying equal weight in planning decisions.
Why are we reviewing the Plan?
Neighbourhood planning gives us an opportunity to shape how our parish develops in the future. Since our current plan was adopted, there have been changes to planning policy at a national level. Also, Ashford Borough Council are starting to review their Local Plan. We can review our Neighbourhood Plan to ensure that our policies are up-to-date and to influence change in the parish. For example, we can set out planning policies on topics including the location of any new housing that Ashford Borough Council requires us to deliver, the type of housing, green spaces we wish to safeguard, community facility priorities and improvements to the promote walking, cycling and riding.
How you can get involved
This short survey is one way that we will be gathering information over the coming months about your views on what we should be focusing on in the Neighbourhood Plan. The questions are largely open-ended and some have a series of question prompts - this is to give you an opportunity to share fully your views on a range of topics. Some have a series of questions to inspire your responses.
You can complete all the questions or some of the questions. You are also welcome to complete the survey individually or jointly, for instance, with other members of your family.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Rolvenden1
The April edition of the Parish Magazine is available here
Members of the public are welcome to attend and there is an opportunity at the start of each meeting for parishioners to speak briefly.
HISTORY
The village of Rolvenden dates from at least Saxon times. The Parish of Rolvenden comprises of the ward of Rolvenden (known locally as the 'Streyte') and the smaller younger (circa 1660) Rolvenden Layne. It is approximately ten square miles in area, given over largely to farming and rural activities, with a growing number of professional, craft and tourist services.
LOCATION
Rolvenden is located on the A28 Ashford to Hastings road, three miles south of Tenterden. It is roughly equidistant from the centres of Ashford, Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and Hastings. The mainline railway stations are at Headcorn ,(20minutes) and Staplehurst (25 minutes). A Bus service is available to Tunbridge Wells,Hastings and Ashford.
Rolvenden lies within the jurisdiction of Ashford Borough Council and is also within the High Weald AONB and the South Kent development area.
email The Parish Clerk. [email protected].com or call 07900 693572
receive email notifications of Minutes and Agendas HERE
KCC Councillor Wayne Chapman
Town / Parish Council Report – April 2026
(Covering Appledore, Biddenden, Rolvenden, Rolvenden Layne, St Michaels, Tenterden,
Wittersham, Kenardington, Newenden, High Halden, and Stone‑cum‑Ebony)
Introduction – April 2026
Welcome to my April 2026 monthly report. What a wonderful time of year this is across our beautiful division. Spring is well and truly with us – the clocks went forward on 29th March, bringing those precious extra hours of evening light that lift all our spirits. The hedgerows and verges are coming alive with colour, the blossom is appearing on the trees, the birdsong is back in full chorus and, with Easter upon us, there is a real sense of renewal and optimism in the air. I hope the warmer weather is not too far away!
April is a busy month across the division – with Easter celebrations, spring events in our villages, important local planning matters and a great deal of KCC business to report on. I hope you find this month’s report informative and useful, and as always please do not hesitate to contact me with anything you would like me to take forward on your behalf.
Easter 2026 – A Very Happy Easter to All
I would like to wish each and every resident, family and visitor across the Tenterden Division a very happy, peaceful and blessed Easter. Whether you are spending time with family, attending a church service, exploring the beautiful Kent countryside, or simply enjoying the extra daylight and the arrival of spring, I hope this Easter weekend brings you joy.
The Story of Easter – A Brief Reflection
Easter is the most important celebration in the Christian calendar – even more so than Christmas – and it is a time observed and celebrated across all of our churches in the division and beyond. For Christians, Easter commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, believed to be the Son of God.
The Easter story begins on Palm Sunday, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem to great celebration, with crowds laying palm branches before him. The week that followed – known as Holy Week – includes Maundy Thursday, when Jesus shared the Last Supper with his disciples and washed their feet as a sign of humble service, instituting what Christians know as Holy Communion. Good Friday marks the day Jesus was crucified on a cross at Golgotha, outside Jerusalem – a solemn and deeply moving day of reflection for Christians around the world. Then, on Easter Sunday, Christians celebrate the central miracle of their faith: the Resurrection of Jesus, who rose from the dead, conquering death and offering the promise of eternal life to all who believe.
The timing of Easter changes each year because it is calculated based on the lunar calendar – it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. This year, Good Friday falls on 3rd April, Holy Saturday on 4th April, Easter Sunday on 5th April, and Easter Monday on 6th April.
Interestingly, many of our Easter traditions have deep roots. The word “Easter” itself is thought by many scholars to derive from “Eostre”, an Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and fertility, whose festival was held at the spring equinox. The giving of eggs – long before chocolate was involved – symbolised new life and rebirth, making them a natural fit for the Christian celebration of the Resurrection. Hot cross buns, traditionally eaten on Good Friday, feature a cross representing the crucifixion and spices said to represent those used to embalm Jesus.
Easter Services Across the Division
Our division is blessed with many wonderful churches, chapels and halls, all will be offering services to mark this most important of seasons in the Christian denominations calendar, for full details of all Holy Week and Easter service times across the Tenterden Division please contact your local church of faith. All are welcome – whether you are a regular worshipper, someone returning to church after a long time away, or simply curious to experience something special this Easter.
Wishing everyone across the Tenterden Division a very Happy Easter. He is Risen!
Eid al-Fitr 2026 – Eid Mubarak!
I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my warmest wishes to all Muslim residents across the Tenterden Division who celebrated Eid al-Fitr on Friday 20th March 2026. Eid al-Fitr marks the joyful end of Ramadan – the holy month of fasting, prayer and reflection – and is one of the most important and cherished celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day, devoting the month to worship, charity, community and spiritual growth. Eid al-Fitr – meaning the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’ – begins with communal Eid prayers, followed by celebration with family and friends, the sharing of food and sweets, the giving of gifts, and acts of charity known as Zakat al-Fitr, which ensure that those less fortunate can also share in the joy of the day. It is a time of gratitude, generosity, togetherness and community – values which sit at the very heart of everything that makes our division such a wonderful place to live.
Eid Mubarak to all who celebrated – I hope it was a wonderful and blessed occasion.
1. Highways Update
Tenterden – Appledore Road
Works along Appledore Road continue to progress well. Traffic calming kerbside buildouts, pedestrian crossing improvements, speed restriction signage and new street lighting are all at varying stages of completion. I am pleased to report that good progress is being made and I continue to liaise closely with KCC Highways and the relevant contractors to ensure works are concluded to the required standard as promptly as possible. I will update residents and councils as works are finalised and once concluded, the long-awaited and much-needed full resurfacing of Appledore Road will be formally diarised.
Newenden – A28 Bridge
I am pleased to confirm that the parapet wall repair works at Newenden Bridge were successfully concluded in March following the three planned weekend closures. The bridge is now fully open and I thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience during these essential repairs.
KCC will shortly be making a formal announcement regarding the upcoming major maintenance programme for the bridge. This more extensive work, which will require a full closure of the bridge, is now planned for June to September 2027, allowing businesses, residents and the wider community ample time to plan ahead. I will continue to keep all parties fully informed as further details are confirmed.
Tenterden – Woodchurch Road
The Section 278 developer-funded works on Woodchurch Road, covering footway, verge and bus stop improvements associated with the Oakridge Grange / Bovis Homes development, is nearing completion. These works have been assessed by the KCC Officers as meeting the local landscape and existing footpaths with all gradients within regulatory requirements. I would like to thank residents for their continued patience.
Tenterden Town Council – Highways Meeting
I recently attended a dedicated highways meeting with Tenterden Town Council at which a number of important local issues were raised and discussed as well as some items from the Highway Improvement Plan (HIPS). I am actively progressing each of the following items with KCC Highways and will provide updates as matters are progressed, resolved:
- Smallhythe Road (near Longfield Road) – The poor condition of the road surface in this area was highlighted. I have raised this with KCC Highways and will press for an inspection and remedial works to be programmed.
- Speed Restriction Extensions – Requests have been made for the extension of existing speed restrictions on Appledore Road, Rolvenden Road and Ashford Road / St Michaels. I am taking these forward with KCC Highways and the relevant traffic management officers for assessment.
- Homewood School Entrance Congestion – Congestion at the Homewood School entrance continues to be a concern for residents and road users. I am engaging with KCC Highways and the school to explore what practical measures can be taken to improve traffic flow and safety at peak times.
- Double Yellow Lines Opposite St Michaels School – The need for double yellow lines opposite St Michaels School was raised, due to dangerous parking during school drop-off and collection times. I have submitted this request to KCC Highways for urgent consideration as this is a road safety matter.
- Damaged Bus Stop Signs – Shop Around the Clock – Damaged bus stop signs outside Shop Around the Clock were reported. I have raised this with KCC Highways and the relevant bus infrastructure team for inspection and replacement.
- New Bus Stop Pole – Ashford Road / London Beach – The newly installed bus stop pole at Ashford Road / London Beach remains incomplete, with no sign or bus timetable information in place. I am chasing KCC and the bus infrastructure team to ensure this is completed as a matter of priority so that passengers have the information they need.
- Bus Stop Suspension – Tenterden Town Hall – The bus stop outside Tenterden Town Hall will be suspended from Monday 7th April to Friday 17th April 2026 to enable essential drainage works to be carried out at the Town Hall. During this period, the nearest alternative bus stop for passengers to use is the stop on the High Street between The Vine Inn and WUD Menswear. I would ask all councils to help spread awareness of this temporary change, particularly for elderly residents and those with mobility needs who may not be aware of the alternative stop. The suspension is temporary and the stop will reopen on completion of the works on 17th April.
I would like to thank Tenterden Town Council for their thorough and constructive approach to this meeting. This kind of collaborative engagement is exactly how I like to work with our local councils – identifying issues together and taking them forward with the relevant authorities on behalf of residents.
Spring Pothole Repair & Road Maintenance Programme
As we move fully into spring, KCC Highways is ramping up its road maintenance and resurfacing programme across the division. As previously reported, KCC has invested significantly in road repairs – 23,000 potholes were repaired countywide between May and November 2025 alone, alongside over one million square metres of road improvements. This excellent work continues into the new financial year.
As always, residents are encouraged to report any potholes, drainage issues, or road defects directly via:
www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/report-or-track-a-problem-on-the-road-or-pavement
Photographic evidence if possible is always helpful to the Highways team when assessing and prioritising repairs, but not essential.
2. Local Government Reorganisation & Devolution (LGR&D)
The Government’s public consultation on Local Government Reorganisation in Kent and Medway closed on Thursday 26 March 2026. The consultation data and responses received from residents, businesses and organisations across Kent and Medway will now be compiled and carefully considered by civil servants and ministers at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This information will assist the Government in making its decision on the future structure of local government in Kent and Medway, in line with the LGR timetable of events.
A Government decision on which model is preferred is expected in the summer of 2026. Once announced, work will begin in earnest on combining councils to create the new unitary authority or authorities, with new councils expected to begin delivering services from April 2028.
KCC’s preferred option remains Option 1A – a single unitary ‘Kent Council’, supported by three area assemblies covering North, East and West Kent. KCC believes this model is the best option for Kent as a whole, delivering the greatest financial savings, the strongest service resilience and the most efficient structure for the entire county. It is important to note, however, that individual district and borough councils across Kent have put forward their own preferred options during this process. Those local councils may have voted for a different model – whether three, four or five unitary authorities – because they believe that option may better serve their own local communities and reflect their area’s identity and needs. All views have now been submitted to Government through the public consultation process and will be carefully considered. The final decision rests with ministers, who will weigh up all the evidence and the responses from residents, businesses and councils alike. The 1a option model delivers:
- The fastest financial payback – approximately 3.3 years
- Annual savings of £69 million once established
- Cumulative savings of £457 million over 10 years
- One monitoring structure, one senior team, one strategy – no duplication
As a member of the KCC LGR&D Committee, I remain actively involved in this process and will continue to represent the interests of our communities throughout. I will provide further updates as the Government’s response becomes clear.
3. KCC Budget & Council Tax 2026/27
April 2026 marks the start of the new financial year and I am pleased to confirm that our Reform UK KCC budget for 2026/27, passed at Full Council in February, is now in effect. The council tax increase for the KCC element was held at 3.99% – well below the national 5% cap available to councils, and significantly lower than the 4.99% proposed by opposition groups.
Key budget figures for 2026/27:
- £787.5 million for Adult Social Care – supporting vulnerable adults
- £423 million for Children’s Services
- Continued investment in highways, environment and transport
This represents a responsible and measured approach to managing the county’s finances while protecting the vital services that residents depend upon.
Please Note, the Reform UK Administration passed 3.99% as the KCC increase, but for some reason the software Ashford Borough Council use for the Council Tax Billing cannot express second decimal points as .99 hence why they have shown as 4.0 but the monetary calculation is correct as 3.99%
4. Ashford Borough Council – Council Tax Reduction Scheme Changes
From 1 April 2026, Ashford Borough Council has introduced changes to its Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme, which may benefit some of the most vulnerable residents across our division. Key changes include:
- The maximum level of support for low income working age households increases from 80% to 90%
- The new scheme takes into account Universal Credit elements relating to disability and caring responsibilities, which previously resulted in some residents seeing a reduction in support
Residents who believe they may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction are encouraged to contact Ashford Borough Council or visit www. https://www.ashford.gov.uk/benefits/claiming-benefits/ for further information.
5. Community Events – April 2026
Easter Across the Division
Easter falls across the 3rd–6th April this year, with Easter Sunday on 5th April. There are a wonderful range of events taking place in and around the division – I wish all residents, families and visitors a very happy and peaceful Easter.
Easter Egg Hunt at Smallhythe Place – Running from 28th March to 19th April, 11am–4:30pm. A National Trust Easter trail with activities for all the family at this wonderful property near Tenterden. Entry £3.50 per trail, includes chocolate egg.
Kent & East Sussex Railway – Easter Holiday events running from 29th March. On Friday 10th April, a special Paddington Bear journey departs Tenterden Town Station – a 60-minute steam train ride with Paddington to meet on return. Every child receives a storybook, activity sheet, biscuit and juice.
Easter on the Farm – The Rare Breeds Centre, Woodchurch – From 3rd April, a great family day out just across the division boundary, celebrating spring with farm animals and activities.
Easter Crafternoon – Church on the Weald, Tenterden – Saturday 4th April, 1–4pm. Free crafts for all children, free face painting, drinks and cakes. A lovely free community event.
Tenterden Friday Market – Market Square, every Friday throughout April (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th April), 7am–1pm. Fresh produce, fruit and veg, bread and cakes. A great community staple.
Tenterden Museum – Reopens for the 2026 season from 1st April. This volunteer-run local history museum in the heart of the Weald is well worth a visit – a true hidden gem.
Spirit of Tenterden Festival 2026
Planning is well underway for the sixth Spirit of Tenterden Festival, taking place on Tenterden Recreation Ground from 3rd–5th July 2026. This wonderful free, community-led festival – featuring live music, food and drink, crafts and family activities – is one of the highlights of the local calendar. I very much look forward to supporting and attending once again.
KALC Community Award – High Halden
The High Sheriff of Kent will host a special celebration evening on Wednesday 8th April 2026 at Shepherd Neame Brewery, Faversham, as part of the KALC Community Awards Scheme. High Halden Parish Council has been seeking nominations for individuals or groups who have made a significant contribution to their local community. Congratulations to all nominees – this type of voluntary community service is the lifeblood of our parishes and villages.
Planning Applications – Have Your Say
Planning applications across the division are determined by Ashford Borough Council. Residents and councils are encouraged to view and comment on any application of interest via the ABC online planning portal at https://abcportal.ashford.gov.uk. I continue to monitor applications within the division and will raise concerns where appropriate in my capacity as KCC Councillor. If any council or resident wishes to draw a particular application to my attention, please do not hesitate to contact me.
6. Important Public Health Alert – Meningitis B Outbreak in Kent
As many residents will be aware, in mid-March 2026 Kent experienced an outbreak of Meningococcal disease (MenB) – a serious bacterial illness linked primarily to the Canterbury area. I want to take this opportunity to ensure all residents across our division are fully informed and aware.
As of late March 2026, KCC’s Director of Public Health confirmed no new cases had been reported, and the outbreak appears to be under control. However, KCC and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) remain vigilant and ask all residents to be aware of the symptoms.
Know the Symptoms – Act Fast
Symptoms can develop suddenly and in any order. Early signs can be similar to flu or a cold, which is why it is vital to act quickly. Key symptoms to look out for include:
- A severe headache, high fever and stiff neck
- Vomiting, drowsiness and sensitivity to light
- Cold hands and feet, muscle pain, aches
- A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (this is a late sign – do NOT wait for a rash before seeking help)
If you or someone you know develops any of these symptoms, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait. Trust your instincts – early treatment can be lifesaving.
The overall risk to people outside the Canterbury area remains low. MenB is not as contagious as infections such as flu or COVID-19 and requires close and prolonged contact to spread. However, awareness and vigilance remain important. Please ensure your children’s vaccinations are up to date – speak to your GP if you have any concerns. For further information visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis or call the Meningitis Research Foundation helpline on 0808 800 3344 (24 hours).
7. KCC Services & Campaigns
KCC Family Hubs
Family Hubs across Kent offer free courses to help families feel more confident and connected – from pregnancy and baby’s first months right through to the teenage years. Topics include baby bonding, understanding behaviour, online safety and building stronger relationships. To explore courses and book a free place visit: https://loom.ly/Kyd-Wbw
Food Waste Recycling
Thank you to all residents across the division – Kent as a whole recycled an extra 2,000 tonnes of food waste since September 2025, a 22% increase year-on-year. If you haven’t yet signed up for a food caddy, order one at www.kent.gov.uk/foodwaste
Mental Health Support
If you or someone you know is struggling, KCC has a highly trained team available 24/7. Text SHOUT to 85258 or call 0800 107 0160. Please don’t suffer in silence.
Forever Active Kent – New Initiative from 1st April 2026
From 1st April 2026, KCC is rolling out its brand new Forever Active Kent initiative, in partnership with Active Kent & Medway. This replaces the previous over-60s Postural Stability Service and aims to help Kent residents aged 50 and over stay mobile, healthy and independent for longer – while making new friends and having fun in their local community.
Local community groups and organisations are encouraged to apply for grant funding to set up and deliver activity sessions for the over-50s. This is a fantastic opportunity for our villages and parishes – if any group across the division is interested in finding out more, please visit www.kent.gov.uk or contact me and I will help point you in the right direction.
Chilmington Green – Major Planning Win for KCC and Ashford Borough Council
I am pleased to report a significant planning victory for KCC and Ashford Borough Council. The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed the appeal lodged by developer Hodson Developments, which sought to discharge or modify over 120 planning obligations at the 5,750-home Chilmington Green development near Ashford.
The Inspector found that the existing Section 106 obligations remain necessary and proportionate. This protects the vital A28 dualling scheme, four new primary schools, a secondary school, social care contributions, ecological enhancements, library and youth services – all of which are critical to the future of the development and the surrounding community. This is a strong outcome for residents and demonstrates that KCC and ABC will robustly defend planning obligations in the interests of local communities.
KCC Biodiversity Net Gain Site Register – Launched March 2026
KCC has launched a new Biodiversity Net Gain Site Register for Kent, helping to ensure that when development takes place, the creation and improvement of natural habitats delivers the greatest possible positive impact on local wildlife. This is particularly relevant for our division, which contains significant areas of the Wealden landscape and the Isle of Oxney – all of which are rich in wildlife and natural habitats. I will monitor how this register is applied to developments in our area and report back accordingly.
Secondary School Places 2026 – Good News for Kent Families
On 2nd March 2026, Kent families received their secondary school place offers for September. I am pleased to share that 96% of Kent pupils were offered one of their preferred schools, with 79% receiving their first choice – an improvement of 304 more children offered a preferred place compared to last year. I hope families across our division received the news they were hoping for. If any parent has a concern or query about their child’s school place, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will do my best to help.
Spring Grass Cutting – KCC Programme Now Underway
KCC’s grass cutting season is now underway. Urban verges and those within 30mph speed limits are cut approximately every 5–6 weeks between March and October. Rural verges will receive their first safety cut from late May, with a conservation cut in the autumn. Some rural verges along KCC’s biodiversity priority routes will receive a reduced cut to allow wildflowers to bloom and support pollinators – so residents should not be concerned if some rural verges appear longer than expected during the summer months. If any overgrown grass is causing a road safety or visibility concern, please report it at www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel or contact me directly.
8. News & Updates Across the Division
I am very aware that my report should reflect all of the communities I represent, not just Tenterden town itself. Here is a summary of news, events and updates from across the wider division:
Biddenden – New Housing Development
Full planning permission has been granted for 50 new homes off North Street in Biddenden by developer Elivia Homes, with construction expected to commence in summer 2026. The development includes 15 shared ownership and 5 affordable homes, alongside green spaces. I appreciate there are mixed feelings within the village about the pace and scale of development – this will be the third development to complete in just a few years. Biddenden Parish Council is active in representing residents’ views on planning matters and I will continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly regarding the impact on local roads and infrastructure. If residents have concerns, I encourage them to engage with Biddenden Parish Council and to submit comments via the ABC planning portal.
Biddenden – Tractorfest 2026
Biddenden Tractorfest will return for its 12th year on the weekend of 15th & 16th August 2026 at Holden Farm, Sissinghurst Road, Biddenden. This wonderful community event organised entirely by volunteers, with the support of the Kent County Agricultural Society, features tractors, classic vehicles, arena displays, falconry, a fun dog show, food and drink, live music and stalls. Early bird tickets will be on sale in spring 2026 – do book early as tickets are expected to sell out. It is a fantastic day out for all the family and a great showcase of rural Kent life. Visit www.tractorfest.co.uk for more information.
Kenardington – Solar Farm Planning Application
Residents will be aware that green energy firm Quintas Cleantech has submitted a full planning application to Ashford Borough Council for a 35 Megawatt solar farm on a 148-acre site – the equivalent of 68 football pitches – between Kenardington and Woodchurch. The site borders two ancient woodlands: Southroad Wood and Pond Wood. This application is currently with Ashford Borough Council for determination. I have been monitoring this application closely since the early stages. I have significant concerns about the impact on agricultural land, the landscape character of this area and the ancient woodland boundaries, and I will continue to represent the views of the local community through the planning process. I would encourage all residents and interested parties to view and comment on this application via the ABC planning portal: https://abcportal.ashford.gov.uk
Rolvenden – Neighbourhood Plan Review
Rolvenden Parish Council is currently undertaking a review of its Neighbourhood Plan – an important document that carries equal weight alongside Ashford Borough Council’s Local Plan when determining planning applications in the parish. The review is an opportunity for residents to help shape future planning policies on matters including housing, green spaces and community facilities. I strongly encourage all Rolvenden and Rolvenden Layne residents to engage with this process. Details can be found on the Rolvenden Parish Council website: www.rolvendenparishcouncil.gov.uk
Rolvenden – Community Safety & Vigilance
Rolvenden Neighbourhood Watch continues to do excellent work keeping residents informed and vigilant. I echo their message to remain alert to suspicious activity, unusual vehicles or individuals behaving strangely, and to report anything of concern to Kent Police online, via Live Chat at www.kent.police.uk/contact or by calling 101. For serious or ongoing incidents, always call 999. Your reports matter – they build the intelligence picture that helps police protect our rural communities.
Appledore – Classic Car Show & Village Fair 2026
Appledore’s popular annual Classic Car Show and Village Fair is expected to return in summer 2026, continuing its tradition as one of the largest classic vehicle events in the South East, attracting around 5,000 visitors and 450 vehicles. Organised entirely by the volunteer-run Appledore Recreation Ground Management Committee, the show raises vital funds to maintain and improve the recreation ground, pavilion and children’s playground for the benefit of the whole village. Keep an eye on www.appledorevehiclerally.co.uk for 2026 dates and details. A great community event well worth supporting.
Newenden – The Friends of Newenden Meadow
The Friends of Newenden Meadow hosted an evening talk on Thursday 13th March 2026 at St Peter’s Church, welcoming local ecology expert Brian Banks to speak about his work restoring fields to wildflower meadows in Northiam, and to share advice on enhancing Newenden’s own meadow. This is exactly the kind of local environmental initiative that makes our rural communities so special. I commend the Friends of Newenden Meadow for their ongoing commitment to the natural environment of the village.
Wittersham – Parish Council Meetings Open to All
Wittersham Parish Council meets monthly on the second Tuesday of each month (excluding August) in the Club Room of the Village Hall at 7pm. All members of the public are welcome to attend and there is an open session at the start of each meeting for parishioners to raise any points on the agenda. I would encourage residents of Wittersham and the Isle of Oxney to engage with their Parish Council – it is your direct voice in local democracy.
High Halden – KALC Community Award
As mentioned in the community events section, High Halden Parish Council has been seeking nominations for the KALC Community Award, with a celebration evening taking place on 8th April at Shepherd Neame Brewery, Faversham. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in High Halden who volunteers their time for the benefit of the community – whether through the Parish Council, local events, the church, village groups or simply helping a neighbour. It is this spirit of community that makes our villages such special places to live.
Stone-cum-Ebony & Kenardington – Rural Lane Inspections
Rural lane inspections carried out through January and February have identified minor defects in Stone-cum-Ebony and Kenardington which are now programmed for repair as we move into spring. I will continue to press KCC Highways to ensure these more remote lanes are not overlooked in favour of busier routes. As always, residents are the best eyes on the ground – please report any potholes, drainage issues or damaged verges at www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel and copy me in at [email protected] if you feel an issue is being missed.
Ashford Local Plan – Consultation Now Open
Ashford Borough Council is reviewing its Local Plan, which will shape development and planning policy across the whole borough – including all of our villages – for years to come. This is extremely important for communities such as Biddenden, Rolvenden, High Halden, Wittersham, Appledore and the other parishes in our division, particularly given the pace of housing development in recent years. I strongly urge all residents and parish councils to engage with this consultation and make your voices heard. For more information visit www.ashford.gov.uk or contact Ashford Borough Council directly.
9. Parish / Town Council Meetings – April 2026
As in previous months, I intend to attend the upcoming Parish and Town Council meetings across the division during April. If for any reason I am unable to attend your meeting, please accept my apologies in advance. In those circumstances, my written report will be circulated and I remain fully contactable. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with any problems, issues or concerns via email at [email protected] and I will respond as promptly as possible.
I also remain in regular contact with Cllr Sue Ferguson, who runs the Facebook page “Tenterden, Kent – The Jewel of the Weald” and the website www.mytenterden.co.uk, both of which provide up-to-date local information between my monthly reports.
10. Contact Details
Email: [email protected]
For any highways, street lighting, or footpath issues, please report online first via:
https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/report-or-track-a-problem-on-the-road-or-pavement
Many thanks,
Wayne Chapman
Kent County Councillor – Tenterden Division