Maidstone is a Des Res!

There are a plethora of polls, surveys and reports published throughout the year making assertions or claims as an excuse to create publicity or promote sales.

But sometimes the pollsters do actually hit the mark, and well done The Halifax for naming Maidstone as the UK's 8th most 'des res' in 2011.

Indeed well done this paper for covering the story so well on page 2 last week. The fact is that Maidstone is a remarkable town. Set in a beautiful and accessible location, with an amazing history and a very bright future.

A town is only as good as its people, however, and if they don't care, everything suffers. Crime, litter, absenteeism, truancy, graffiti and damaged amenities, riots. But if the local people have a sense of civic pride, it makes all the difference and sets those places above the rest of the competition.

I believe Maidstone is entering a new era of development and prosperity, even amidst the current economic strife. Our town centre development programme, the restoration of Mote Park, the return of 'the Stones' to a town centre stadium, and much more. All of these will pay great dividends and I take my hat off to everyone who plays their part in our success.

For some out there who aspire to taking an active role in our local democracy and help design the future for the people of Maidstone, why not consider becoming a parish councillor (www.cpalc.org.uk) or a borough councillor (www.maidstone.gov.uk), or perhaps join Maidstone's Civic or Historical Societies.

For my own part I will continue to uphold my pledges for Maidstone & the Weald; to protect our surrounding rural heritage, preserve our hospital, improve our trains and support our businesses. I welcome invitations from anyone who feels I can be of help to them in supporting this constituency and work toward an even higher ranking in the coming years.

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