There can be no doubt as we look forward to a New Year - that many challenges face not only our Government, but hundreds of ordinary folk around the ward, the City and the County are reasonably worried about what 2009 will bring. Many of you I know will face unemployment for the first time, sickness and with a number of families - the uncertainty which comes with having suffered a loss of a loved one in 2008.

None of us can begin to appreciate what this means until we have faced it ourselves, to all those who have suffered loss in 2008 I send you my personal best wishes - and an offer an ear where it can be useful to talk about it.

To those who face uncertainty in your employment - make good use of all the help that can be available through a variety of agencies - and for a short while if it is possible work alongside voluntary bodies like Age Concern, Cancer UK, Arthur Rank and other’s who always need extra pairs of hands.

I wish for all of you peace of mind and peace of spirit as we face a New Year, talk to your neighbour, offer help where you can - even the little things can make a difference to someone’s very existence and you will feel better for it to.

In a letter to local Members of Parliament - Geoff has again sought to bring pressure on National Politicians to take firm action against an awful and miserable regime in what was once a very proud and prospering Commonwealth Country - but which now witnesses the human tragedy of its people not only suppressed by a tyrant but an administration that wishes to deny the very presence of not only abject poverty - but disease beyond measure.

To be entering another New Year - with Mugabe in power, living in wealth whilst his people disappear by the hundred every day through sickness is appalling - yet the West stand by and utter just warm words. What is clearly needed is regime change of the sort brought about in Iraq - and I would certainly echo the words of the Archbishop of York who says “direct action” is now required to remove this dictator once and for all. The unanswered question will be - WHO WILL ACT?

Geoff in his role as the County Liberal Democrat Health Spokesman - has made representations to the Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust over the provision of out of hours services in and around Ely - following the case of a 75 year old gentleman who required a minor procedure to be carried out on a Saturday afternoon but a GP would not attend. His registered carer - contacted the Ambulance Service - and subsequently a paramedic team arrived, could not do the necessary procedure and took him to Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge.

Later in the evening having waited, he was seen but then had to negotiate his return to Ely because the Ambulance could not transport him. He arrived home around 3am by taxi paid for by Addenbrookes.

Geoff added “This whole miserable story throws up a number of questions not least among them is the whole issue of access to services at the Princess of Wales Hospital after 5pm weekedays and weekends, the availability of community nursing staff - in an area of the County which is growing. We await the answers.

Given the number of times that lights in the shopping arcade have been out of action during 2008, Geoff has asked for an urgent review both of the standard of lighting and its reliability on behalf of shopkeepers from the City Council. For days on end - we have the shops in pitch darkness - and this is neither good from a security point of view or from the perspective of advertising the shops that are there. Various reasons have been given as to why lights are unreliable including - some motorists parking outside the chemist hitting the columns.

Following his representations to County Transport bosses - about getting real time travel information monitors installed at Fendon Road and Wulfstan way Bus stops - to inform waiting passengers when a bus will actually arrive, Geoff has been advised by the Passenger Transport Unit at Shire Hall there are no immediate plans to instal the electronic monitors but will add them to the waiting list for consideration in 2009-10

I am increasingly being given complaints from residents who wait in the morning for up to 40 minutes for a Northbound service towards the City - against an advertised service of every 10 minutes. When you tackle Stagecoach about this you usually get told - its caused by traffic congestion, Hills Road bridge works and so on, that may well be the case, but waiting for a bus in Fendon or Wulfstan to get to work or an appointment - you need to know if a Bus is going to turn up or not.

Geoff has expressed his anxiety about the way some local people are parking on Wulfstan Way near Queen edith’s Primary School at the two peak periods of the day - in order to collect children or drop them off. In recent weeks I have observed very poor and frankly selfish parking by a number of motorists, blocking exits, blocking buses trying to get up and down the road and sooner rather than later its going to lead to a tragedy.

I am in discussion with Highways and the Police as to what measures we could look at finding a permanent solution to this problem before we have a serious incident. Parents have been asked to think before they park - but sadly a small minority are simply not interested in anyone’s interests than their own, this we must tackle.

Geoff has come out very strongly against the County Council for their use of legislation intended to be used against possible terrorists - in their recent prosecution of a newsagent at Melbourn who got in a muddle over paperwork in order to employ young boys to deliver newspapers.

This is simply not good enough and some detailed explanations need to be given to even justify why a watch was kept on this small country store in order to  ascertain the facts behind allegations that young folk were being employed under age. Fine that the authority wants to check what is happening - but not go over the top in the sorts of measures they have taken to seek clarification.

There is also the concern over how much this whole exercise has cost taxpayers when a visit by trading standards officers would have been cheaper and more proportionate.

Geoff has received fresh complaints about the level of Policing in the City - both during the day and also in the evening. Information has been received by me - indicating staffing levels are again under some difficulty - and therefore the response that the Police is able to give us as the taxpayers of the City is to say the least not of the quality we reasonably should expect. I am making fresh representations to the Assistant Chief Constable for some explanation as to quite what is happening.

Residents continue to pay more and more each year to the Police Authority - but the level of satisfaction is certainly falling.

Geoff has had to report two fresh highway problems in the division over the last couple of days due to the poor maintenance by the County Council - and the heavy frosts. Holes have appeared both in Hills Road and Queen Edith’s Way. They have been reported to Highway officers for inspection and repair.

Geoff is to join County Highways staff, Police and School Managers later this month at Queen Edith’s Primary School in an effort to find solutions to the growing nightmare surrounding parking outside the School on Godwin Way and Wulfstan Way at the two peak periods of the day. There is growing concern at the picture on Godwin - where inconsiderate parking is likely to lead to a nasty accident sooner rather than later. We have to find ways of getting the message across to a few drivers who just dont think.

In the middle of last week, two cars had an argument on the junction of Babraham Road with Hills Road and nigh demolished the traffic signals. Police and Signals personnel were called to the scene, Geoff being amongst those who came across the incident. Later that afternoon the rather complicated signals were duly straightened and repaired. Geoff has commended the actions of Highways in a speedy attendance and repair, well done.

Geoff continues his fight with City Council officers to get a replacement bin placed near the Queen Edith’s Medical centre on the corner of Queen Edith’s Way with Wulfstan Way. The original plastic one was burnt out some considerable time ago - and a new metal one has been asked for again and again.

I have been told to the point of exhaustion, no metal bins available, no budget and on and on it goes. I am now considering a petition to the Mayor in order to get this issue resolved once and for all. It is one of those bureacractic nonsense’s we have to fight from time to time.

Geoff in his role as County Health Spokesman - has spoken out strongly against the “current wisdom” which seems to abound in many Public Services - that when things go wrong badly - the people at the top should hang on to their jobs or pass the buck somewhere else. By definition when you accept Senior Positions with all the benefits, there is an acceptance that the buck stops with you - when disaster strikes, especially as in the recent child protection case in London - it becomes clear that people under your command failed to “protect” the vulnerable.

It must not become the case - that people run for cover or say not my problem, whether you are looking after a child or elderly person - you are in a major position of trust, if you or people you are responsible for fail - then you must accept that your job is on the line, further more it should not be accepted in such circumstances that you take away all the benefits which the taxpayer has provided. Much more personal and real accountability must be demonstrated in Public positions fo responsibility.

If I fail, I loose my job, i cease to be a Councillor and that you accept when you stand or seek Public Office.

Geoff has been advised by the City Council - that the reason the Bus shelters have lights out - is that there is an electricity fault which has now been reported to the Electricity Comapny - EDF for their attention. I only hope they are faster at dealing with this fault than they are usually - when street lighting faults are reported across the ward.

Geoff is delighted after a three year battle in conjunction with County Highways staff - that the contractor who carried out the mains water replacement in Wulfstan Way during 2005 has finally accepted liability for the mess he left the road in. We have complained and complained again about the appalling state of this road and CWC and their contractor May Gurney simply dismissed the complaints.
However after tests have been carried out - in the way that the work was carried out, it is clear that it was not carried out to high standards.

The next battle is to actually get them to put right the mess they left behind.

Increasing numbers of complaints are being received from a number of folk across the ward - concerned about the anti social behaviour of neighbours and wondering who they should turn to - in order that appropriate action mightbe taken.

If the property is owned by the City Council - then the Area Housing Office at Cherry Hinton Road should be contacted or the noise abatement section of Environmental services in Regent Street. If the property is privately owned or belongs to a Housing Society - then the problem should in the first instance be referred to Environmental Services. You dont have to put up with this sorts of behaviour - “ACTION can be taken” if the appropriate authorities are made aware.

Geoff has made fresh representations to the City Council about the ongoing problems associated with the Lighting of Bus Shelters at Cambridge Railway Station. Two atleast have no lighting at all - up against a wall which makes it very dark indeed and for folk waiting in the evening - potentially very vulnerable. The other two appear to have regular bouts of faults with no lighting working at all. What I would like to establish from the City Council is how often these “key sites are ever visited” to ensure everything is ok - or is it the case out of sight out of mind!

People using trains and buses in increasing numbers need to have the security of proper lighting and facilities for them at what is the principal gateway to the City.

Geoff is making representations to the County Council and Stagecoach about the ongoing worries that surround the reliability of Service 1 from Fulbourn via Queen Edith’s to the City Centre - after more complaints about long delays in waiting for a service either from Fendon Road or Wulfstan Way to the City - especially after the peak period in the morning and the increasing delays in getting a service from the City back Southbound.

Buses frequently come in two’s or three’s, the ten minute frequency is a farce at many times of the day, people are having to wait around in the cold and wet - in many cases with no shelter and waiting for a service, some drivers are very off with the Public when they reasonably enquire why the delay, we have no information at either of these locations to indicate when a bus is expected and any reliability is going out of the window, things have to change.

I use the service myself and am frequently having to wait in the City 30 minutes for a Southbound service - this is not acceptable at 430 in the afternoon. I want a meeting with Council and Bus Managers to get some answers and solutions forward.

Geoff has had fresh representations from residents living on Cherry Hinton Road - though technically just out of the ward with the continued problems associated with flooding - opposite Budgens and adjacent to the pedestrian crossing every time we have heavy rainfall.

This situation has been reported to County Highways again and again and has been with us far too long - the road surface is in a dreadful state having been dug up again and again by Utility companies, there is a camber in the road and a drain that is clearly inadequate for the the volume it has to deal with. I do wonder what has to happen before we can get officers at shire Hall to really get to grips with this, but we keep at it.

Geoff has been in contact with the City Council about the ongoing parking situation outside the Chemist and Mace shop at Wulfstan way - in order to allow traders to receive local people who wish to do business with them - not least at a difficult time generally with the economy. Too many people - and we suspect some of them are from Addenbrookes Hospital - are parking for several hours or in some cases all day - taking up crucial spaces which many local people need in order to use these local shops.

Abuse is happening here and I am keen to do what ever we can to protect local business. One shop has already sat empty for several months we dont wish to see another two face the same fate.

Geoff in his role as County Liberal Democrat Spokesman for Health - has warmly welcomed the decision of Health Secretary - Alan Johnson to allow patients to top up on their care where they can - particularly those suffering with long-term cancer illness and not be deprived of NHS care.

This is a long fought for and well deserved victory for the many thousands who with their families have in many cases had to give up so much - including their pension provision in order to have expensive drugs to improve not only their survival but quality of life.

As with many things in life, Political leaders have to make choices, choices on how to spend money but must always do it with two things in mind - first what will be the impact on the individual if funding is refused and secondly - what sort of life do we want our fellow human beings to experience. Common Sense has finally arrived in this area of social policy.

Geoff has made a twin call to the City council for improved lighting on the frontage to the shops and also for a review of the time it takes to repair ‘City owened’ lights - after two examples recently when lights have failed and it has taken several days for a visit and subsequent repair to be carried out.

Now that the clocks have changed - some of these shops who remain open well into the evening are exposed and in one case very much in a dark corner of the precint, i am hopeful that the Council will take a favourable view of the situation and put some additional lighting in place.

First of all I should explain as a former JP in the City for sixteen years - I have more than a passing interest in events surrounding the Courts and the Judiciary. I left in 2000 not because I was not interested - but simply because growing frustration in not being able to do the job as I believe it ought to have been carried out - meant I left with a heavy heart. I have been appalled again and again in recent years at decisions made in the Courts - but more often than not because the Home Office or the old Lord Chancellors’ department simply do not listen or operate on behalf of the long-suffering Public.

Jack Straw the current Justice Secretary was for many years Home Secretary - now he in bleating that so many things are wrong with the system and that the Criminal rather than the victim gets too much attention and consideration, BUT I have to ask who brought this about? Lenient sentencing policy, Prisons not up to the task and an attitude by many villains we wont get caught and if we do - Prison is soft will hardly help will it? Until in the words of Gilbert and Sullivan - the punishment fits the crime - and the Courts have their shackleds taken off - we cannot and will not expect there to be a Justice system that fits the bill for most right thinking citizens - and its not that we have seen little law passed - we have had law after law passed but in so many cases the tools simply not available to enforce and prosecute.

The Victim of crime must take a more central place in the thinking of the system, be considered more at time of sentence and supported during their lifetime - especially when they have suffered individually severe effects of a crime - nothing else will do.

Geoff in his Communities role - has attacked as absolutely obscene the growth year on year - the level of profits being made by the Post Office at a time when the area will see three more sub offices closed in the City including Hills Road together with some of the rural ones like Grantchester, post being delivered later and later in the day, talk of taking away Saturday deliveries, Sunday collections gone.

The moral of the story seems to be do less and less, make more and more for that you are doing and offer an ever decreasing service not least to some of the most isolated in our Communities - and this under a Government that is for ever saying - people should have choice. It is clear that the Post Office is being got ready to be floated off to make some badly needed cash for the Treasury. It is a disgrace.

Geoff in his role as County Liberal Democrat Health Spokesman - has joined others in the Medical profession calling for there to be an urgent review of current Government policy - on the ability of patients suffering with cancer to purchase top up drugs to ease their overall situation - current Policy does not permit this to be done.

When someone is very ill - it is patently sensible and compassionate as far as I can see it - that if they are in a position to make a choice how they spend their resources that if they are wishing to - they can purchase additional medication which the NHS currently does not provide. Some deeply moral choices have to be allowed - even in a climate of financial restrictions which in the end are only man-made in any case.

Geoff has expressed his worries that - ongoing financial pressures facing both City and County Councils will mean that even small and simple repairs to community infrastructure will take longer - and this will clearly upset residents across the City.

I am not at all happy at the situation but it seems ongoing more likely that even to get lighting or highway repairs carried out are going to be delayed or fought for harder - because budgets are under severe pressure. Rest assured if something needs doing I will certainly press for it - but it might take me longer to get the desired result.

Geoff has responded to the Audit Commission’s report into what Rail Services are currently delivering - which shows that capacity and overcrowding will continue to threaten the Public’s use of the network - by arguing that this is a golden opportunity with the current worldwide economic crisis - to be investing properly in long term rail projects including a high speed rail link - and to tackle effectively once and for all the issue of capacity and overcrowding.

If the Government is really serious about being green, tackling climate change and giving the Public a real choice - and leaving the car at home, there must be a review of the current re-opening programme in England, train orders and a proper long-term strategy about serious investment in improvements - as we have both in Scotland and Wales, why is England and its Government not prepared to take Investment in Rail seriously and only be looking at every chance it gets to take cash away!

Following a series of complaints from local shop-keepers on Wulfstan Way - that many people are now parking in the limited amount of space outside the chemist and mace shop - Geoff has been in contact with the City Council’s Property department and Parking services - to see if there are measures that could be taken to remove the offenders.

It is desparately unfair that people - likely to be working at Addenbrookes Hospital are now trying to park free and use spaces which local people badly need to legitimately use local shops, we need to stamp this out before it becomes an ongoing nuisance.

I am delighted that on the back of the discussion surrounding the likely increase in car parking charges from April 2009, that Stagecoach have made approaches to the City Council offering to review the current level of service on Sunday mornings - in particular looking at the starting time to enable folk who attend City Centre Churches to use Public Transport. Thank goodness some common-sense is being applied here. If you want to deter car parking in the centre you have to ensure there is a decent and appropriate Bus service, we look forward to seeing improvements put in place.

Geoff was delighted to see Highways lorries on site early on the 17th October - beginning the work associated with repairing the footpath near the recreation ground. This has been a longtime coming - but we have got there in the end, i have been extremely concerned that the surface presented a problem particularly to the elderly. I will continue my battle for other improvements further up the road near Hills Road.

Geoff and other County Councillors are seeking answers from the ruling Group on the Council - to clarify exactly what the current cash position is within Highways having been told that “spiralling costs” are impacting on the budget - and that there might well be delays in getting various Highway repairs carried out for the rest of this financial year. This is potentially very worrying indeed - particularly where work might need to be carried out for safety reasons.

You are all invited to come along to St James’ Church on Wulfstan Way - Friday the 21st November at 730pm and have some fun with a pub style quiz with fish and chip supper. There will be a raffle and you are invited to bring along whatever is your tipple for the evening to drink.

Tickets are £8 and are available from 13th October via Geoff or Viki Sanders.

Teams of 4 or 6 members are especially welcome.

Geoff has written to the Chairman of the Cambridge Area Traffic Committee expressing his concern and anxiety - at the level of proposed increases in Car Parking charges in the City - particularly for Sundays from April 2009.

He argues that first of all its sending the wrong sort of message in these difficult financial times - when people are being hit from many directions and secondly - that before any increase is approved and this one is unfair in any event - a serious examination of Bus Service provision should be launched.

Many people try and get into various Churches on a Sunday morning in the City and its nigh impossible - when our area only has a 30 minute service at the weekends. If you are to give people the choice of car or bus - you have to ensure the Bus Service is up to scratch - it isnt so that needs to be sorted out first.

St James’ Church on Wulfstan Way was packed on the evening of Friday the 3rd of October for the licensing of Reverend Jutta Brueck as the new Priest in charge conducted by the Bishop of Ely - Dr Anthony Russell and the Archdeacon of Cambridge - The Venerable John Beer. Representatives of other churches and faiths, community groups and Schools welcomed Jutta to the Parish together with Geoff on behalf of the four Ward Councillors in Queen Edith’s. It was a wonderful evening with a great atmosphere.

Due to budget problems at the County Highway’s - a number of repair jobs which Geoff has pointed out need doing in the ward are likely to be in difficulty - including sorting out the mess in a number of locations on Nightingale Avenue. These paths are absolutely appalling - due to years of neglect on the one hand and significant use on the other.

I fear now - that the Highways’s department has some serious Budget issues, essential patching and repair work might now be delayed into another financial year. I am making a noise and hopeful that even yet - work will be carried out quickly.

Geoff has made representations on behalf of a number of local resident’s who use the Service 114 from Addenbrookes to the Grafton Centre in the face of possible reductions - because the City Council face such a large bill for the concessionary fare scheme. I know how welcome this service is for so many folk and I have sought assurances from the City - that it is not in danger.

Geoff reports that after representations to City Council officers - about the ongoing disgraceful condition of a piece of land adjacent to Queen Edith’s Chapel on Wulfstan Way, folk on Community service have been tasked to set to work and clear the area of overgrown vegetation. I am delighted that an area which has been an eyesore for some time - has been literally given a good haircut, very welcome and everyone wins

Geoff has met with Senior Police Officers to discuss the implications of the incident earlier this summer when resident’s on Holbrook Road were told - we wont be attending “an incident” because we have no one to come.A formal complaint was made to the Chief Constable about how this case was handled and some valuable feedback has now been exchanged between the Police and myself. They do recognise that the situation was not handled well - and following an investigation a number of lessons have been learnt - and some changes put in place.

I have also received an assurance that Police numbers on duty at the week-ends have been reviewed - and we will see more availability at the critical times of the night. I will naturally be keeping a close eye on the situation ongoing.

Geoff has warmly commended the Government for announcing that prescription charges for Cancer patients will be stopped next Spring - and describes it as both an historic but very humane decision. Far too many of our citizens have to suffer very significantly when Cancer strikes and to remove this hindrance and burden is very welcome indeed. I very much hope in the longer term we might yet see all prescription charges withdrawn.

I have always tried to be a supportive Member of the Community in our relationship with the Police generally - and no more so in terms of trying to deal with crime before it happens - as well as supporting officers dealing all too often with difficult scenarios. However I do have some problem - with the stream of information coming from both the Home Office and Cambridgeshire Constabulary - that is telling us that crime is falling - i urge caution!

Yes recorded crime overall might well be falling - but and its an important but - violent crime and anti social behaviour is certainly on the increase, many residents have told me again and again - what is the point of telling the Police that something has happened - when we shall almost certainly be told - no one is available to come, we are tied up, we will give you a crime number. I am aware from a recent case - for which I have made a formal complaint - this has happened locally!

The Public require an assurance that Service will be provided and it will improve - and improve in the critical area of response, excuses will simply not wear any longer. The fight for extra resources is a separate issue and must not cloud the issue of responding now - with the resources the County Force do have - and how they are deployed. This debate goes on.

Geoff has welcomed moves underway to look at what can be done to improve the capacity - of the rail link from Cambridge to Stansted Airport - currently operated by Arriva Cross Country, when so many people want to use the service but face frequent cancellations and overcrowding on a Service which forms part of a cross-regional link to the Midlands.

I use this service myself from time to time and am always concerned at the overcrowding, the way that significant amounts of luggage block gangways and far too many people have to stand. There has to be a better way to operate this service with more carriages on the one hand - and it seems to me a “locally managed service” which could respond to need much more effectively - than being operated as part of a link to Birmingham. I am aware that a number of groups are now pressing for change and a review and I certainly welcome and support such a review.

Geoff has been in touch with City Council’s Streetscene - seeking action after receiving a number of complaints sbout the condition of the footpath from Cherry Hinton Road to Gunhild Way - which passes through part of Bosworth Road. There is significant amounts of graffiti, overhanging vegetation and hedges clearly out of control and impacting on the ability of the limited street-lighting to offer any reasonable level of safety.

I am keen to get work carried out on this footpath -particularly with the onset of winter and the changes associated with clock alterations at the end of October. I am also making enquiries about the condition of the footpath surface which is in parts very poor indeed.

Geoff in his role as County Lib Dem spokesman for Health - has expressed his dismay at the possibility that Addenbrookes’ Hospital Board will turn around a decision to continue the ban on smoking by visitors or patients within the Hospital. he argues that given the staff face a smoking ban for the most part - why should other’s be allowed to smoke because the Hospital authorities find it difficult to enforce the ban.

We have to return to some very basic issues here - first that smoking causes significant damage both to the individual and to other’s who have to put up with passive smoke, secondly - that many respiratory conditions are not only very nasty to cope with but have some pretty awful side effects and thirdly - in the interests of Public Health generally the NHS in all its component parts ought to be setting the scene and sticking with it.

Geoff has had feedback from County Street Lighting engineers - that faults he had reported on bollards both in Long Road near the Sixth Form College and near the junction with Fendon Road at Queen Edith’s Way - will take a while to resolve due to undergrown cable faults - which have come to light as a result of the examination associated with the faults.

This is not uncommon - and I suspect with the significant volume of rain and damp weather this year - the situation has been made worse. I am advised that permanent repairs will be completed in the very near future, I shall be monitoring timescales.

Geoff has condemned the decision by the Post Office Network Change programme to proceed with plans to close the Post Office on Hills Road has absolutely appalling - and against all the interests of my constituents - many of whom had taken the time and the trouble to write in - not only to me but the Consultation process.

The whole Public process is a complete farce, as we have seen elsewhere in the County - indeed the Country this process is flawed - the decisions are pre-ordained and public service needs are ignored.

A very heavy price will now be made by local people, the postmaster and I very much hope in the longer term Politically when local people will have the opportunity to express their anger through the ballot box.

Geoff has warmly welcomed a report by County Council officers that argues - as he does - that the level of development in and around St Johns’ Post Office on Hills Road is such - that this office should remain open. Its closure would put unacceptable pressure on Cherry Hinton Road office - as well as being much less convenient for many users.

Geoff has received a holding reply back from Senior Post Office Management in London - in response to his representations about the future of St.Johns’. I remain optimistic that we have made a strong case for retaining this Branch, I hope they listen.

Geoff - first of all as a resident of the road and secondly - as the ward’s County Councillor has responded to news that the City Council are considering putting more trees on the road with criticism - arguing that the cash could be better spent on repairing and upkeep of the verges in the first place - and that there are more than sufficient trees - along the whole length of the road from Long Road junction to Lime Kiln Hill.

I am simply at a lost as to why

Geoff has complained that it take’s far too long to deal with road furniture like bollards and get them back to action swiftly, his comments come as two sets in Queen Edith’s Way and Long road have not worked for several days - are absolutely filthy and present a hazard - when motorists dont see them - or are unfamiliar with them as visitors to the Area.

County Highways need to up their game and get these jobs done much more quickly. I am monitoring progress.

Geoff is writing to the Transport Secretary and Local MP’s about the risk to a sustainable green transport policy notleast more cars on the road and resulting congestion - if the turnaround the Railways have seen in the last three years were to be threatened by above inflation price rises in rail fares.

We hear rumours, we see stories that some of the Train Operators will propose significantly above inflation rises in January 2009 on many fares - this would be immensely damaging and could well result in many of the new customers leaving the trains and heading back to their cars - that is simply in no-one’s best interest.

Rising numbers of passengers have driven up revenues for the operators anyway - but caused some capacity issues on busy lines, that must be dealt with positively and planned for in an appropriate fashion - not deal with it by negative “demand management” which sees people driven away from the Railway. Geoff is a member of the Rail campaign group - Railfuture as well as an ardent enthusiast and user.

Geoff has made a fresh call to scrap all Hospital Car-Parking charges at Addenbrookes Hospital - in the light of a decision that Scotland is now to follow Wales and scrap all parking charges. I see no good reason why if we have a National Health Service owned and paid for by the taxpayers - we should have one rule in two parts of the UK and another in England.

I have always maintained the charges are an additional burden on the sick and those who visit them - and grossly unfair. Car-parks in this situation should not be run to make profit

The knock-on effect for many of my constituents’ is that they have to endure six day parking on residential streets - to avoid the charges, impacting on their environment, traffic congestion.

Road surface trials to test the content and make-up of the road surface along the length of Wulfstan Way have been welcomed by Geoff - who has been campaigning for three years to get Cambridge Water Company and their contractor’s May Gurney to accept that due to the working practices in place during 2005 - substantial damage was caused to the road.

This is a turning point in my campaign and I am more hopeful now than in all that time - that we might yet get a company to accept responsibility for the damage and take appropriate action to put it right.

Geoff has written afresh to the Head of Parking Services at the City Council - having received new information from residents’ about the level of abuse that is taking place outside the Wulfstan Way doctor’s surgery - by people who are not disabled parking in the designated bays.

This is not only illegal and can cost you a fine - but makes life extremely difficult for those who are disabled - having to walk further to the surgery, we need more thought and more regular enforcement - to ensure the bays are kept clear for those who need them.

Geoff has now written to the Assistant Chief Constable following events in Holbrook Road last week - to seek a full explanation as to the policy surrounding the “sending of text message to indicate the Police would not attend”, the level of resource available in the City that night, whether staffing levels are regularly reviewed - and under what circumstances the Police can now confirm to the Public when an officer attendance will not be made.

This whole incident has thrown up a lot of concerns - with the Response of the Police both on the day - and indeed since the incident, their whole communication strategy and perhaps as important - the way the Police re-act when the Public start expressing worries about how the Service is being managed.

This will simply not go away, we need and deserve appropriate answers and I am seeking them urgently.

Geoff encourages local folk to go along and support the next in a regular series of Coffee Morning’s at St James’ Church on Wulfstan Way - to be held on Saturday 13th September from 10 until 12. This is always a good way to meet new people, make contact with old friends and support a good cause.

Geoff has expressed his deep disgust - at the actions of Cambridgeshire Constabulary in responding to two residents in Holbrook Road who dialled 999 on Sunday the 23rd August - after witnessing a person trying to break into a property by sending a text at 6 oclock in the morning saying “We are too busy, have no one to attend the incident, would you care to check if anything has been stolen and come back to us” This is absolutely disgraceful and totally unacceptable.

Two residents carry out their Public Duty contact the Police and effectively told “could you do our job for us”. What is more at time of writing this report - the Police have not been in touch with the couple to apologise, have made no attempt to visit them and in fact have gone further and said “WE HAVE NO PLANS TO VISIT THEM” arrogance or what.

Geoff will be taking this case up with Senior Managers at the first opportunity and is likely to make formal complaint. Whilst we all understand - the Police have many calls on their time, this sort of attitude is neither helpful or in the spirit of a Public Service paid for by us the taxpayers. A lot of millions of pounds supports Cambridgeshire Constabulary - our money! The Police Service has to recognise what others have had to realise - they are paid to do a job and be accountable to the Public for their action or in this case non-action, they cannot hide behind - we are short of staff and must answer concerns properly.

What concerns me finally, is that despite the Publicity of this case - Senior Management from the Chief Constable down have kept quiet, kept their head down and refused by their silence to answer reasonable questions from elected representatives or the media, We have to ask WHY?

Geoff has expressed his delight - at the news that East Midlands Trains the operator of the Ely to Liverpool rail service via March and Peterborough is examining new options for longer trains - which might include the use of four car Voyager vehicles currently in use on the London to Sheffield service.

I have long advocated the improvement of a very important Regional Service from the East to the North West, there is scope for improving the whole customer experience - and this could be a very welcome move, we await developments with great interest.

Geoff has warmly welcomed news that long-sought after mobility crossings opposite the recreation ground are to be provided in Mid September. This is great news for the many who enjoy the ground but find it quite hard to get across an ever busy Avenue.

A longer term concern - is that when damage is caused to these crossings, we have such a battle to get one of the local Councils to find the funding for repairs, that battle continues.

Geoff has spoken out at news that the projected bill for the improvements to the A14 trunk road from Ellington to Fen Ditton has now broken through the £1 billion barrier - at a time when the Department of Transport and the Rail Regulator are still arguing about putting modest investment into the capacity issues that surround the Rail link from London to Cambridge - where a number of trains are overflowing with passengers for lack of proper length trains and no new trains are planned for atleast another decade on this line.

It is absolutely disgusting that accountants at the D of Transport seem unable or capable to get their sums right, talk happily of spending taxpayers money by the bucket full with no guarantee’s of either the bill will be contained or give value of money. Additionally, we know from experience that as this road is widened more traffic will appear on it, more congestion, more pollution and in all probability more accidents.

If this Government were to really demonstrate green credentials, it would give us new trains, it would electrify from Ely to Norwich and Peterborough, speed up services from our Region to the North and help everyone, it talks green yet repeatedly refuses to see investment in Rail as investment and puts significant obstacles in their path - notleast ensuring that the fare structure for the passenger gives more often than not a poor deal - compared with road. Inconsistent and lack of vision are two of many characteristics that bedevils this Government and its Transport Policy.

Geoff has sent off a pile of petition forms, letters and a detailed representation to Post Office Limited - against the proposed closure of St John’s Post Office on Hills Road in a last ditch attempt to persuade the powers that be - that if the closure were to go ahead - there would be significant difficulty for many constituents to reach a viable alternative towards the bottom of Cherry Hinton Road - notleast because of having to cross three busy junctions on pavements which are variable in their condition.

No small amount of inconvenience would be caused to the residents of Clifton Road Business Park, Hills Road Sixth Form College, Homerton College and the University Faculty of Education who all use the Post Office.

We should be making access to Public Services easier not more difficult - for the wider good of our Community.

Queen Edith’s LIBERAL DEMOCRATS announce their next Jumble Sale to be held on Saturday 27th September, 2pm

St Jame’s Church, Wulfstan way. All are welcome to come along. We do not require books or large items of furniture, these should go either to Book Banks or Emmaus. We also dont require large electrical items, golf clubs. We get left with these at every sale and then we have problems trying to dispose of them.

Offers of items that cannot be brought on the morning of the sale can be made to Geoff on 244901 or Alan on 211117 after the 8th of September

Geoff has given a warm welcome to the arrival and completion of the new housing development behind the shops - known as Queen Emma Place. For years I both argued for development of the waste land, chased the Council to keep it tidy and free of rubbish and cars - thankfully we now have a wonderful development which was so badly needed by many residents who were struggling with large premises or who had become frail.

This development is the way forward without a doubt.

Geoff has been advised by County Highways staff - that trial bore holes will be established in Wulfstan way to examine the condition and damage done to the road - following a near three year campaign to get Cambridge Water Company and their contractor’s to accept responsibility for the present situation - on the back of major roadworks in 2005 when the main water system on the estate was renewed.

I am very frustrated that we still have to fight to get this road back to something approaching a reasonable standard, it was not in golden condition prior to April 05 but for goodness sake it was nothing like it has been since.

I shall keep fighting in the hope we can and will see improvement work initiated

Geoff has expressed his growing anxiety - at the numbers of young people between 18-25 who are regularly taking significant amount of drugs - and then end up in the accident and emergency departments of the County Hospital’s - and many of the sufferers are young girls.

It is not cool, it is no safe and ultimately can do major damage to the body, so no one but no one wins in this situation. It is a frightening indicator of the mess our Society is now in - that so many think that having a good time - is to have a fix or two and then spend hours in Hospital. Education is doing its best to warn the young of the dangers, but more needs to be done at home to warn of the consequences and in some cases  - very tragic ones!

Geoff has addressed fresh concerns about this service to County Transport Bosses. Vehicles are all too often without a destination board - or it spends most of the day saying it is travelling to Addenbrookes and not to the City Centre, this is laziness on the part of the driver but needs to be addressed. Some of the vehicles are both dirty and smoky - which does nothing for the image of the Service - which we are trying hard to get more customers for. Things have to improve.

Geoff has received fresh representations about the access to services in Fenland both out of hours and at weekends for those suffering from Mental Health difficulties.

I am taking these up with County Council Managers as well as the Primary Care Trust in an effort to get to the bottom of what is happening, what is being to address the short-fall in service provision and the action that needs to be taken.

Historically Fenland and East Cambridgeshire have had a poor deal and this needs to be reversed.

Geoff has been contacted by a number of residents living nearby - concerned about the level of development that is taking place on the Avenue - and the change this is causing both to the appearance and setting of the overall street-scene. Some developments are clearly out of keeping and larger than many of the original buildings.

it is one thing to have an extension, but in a number of instances, people are going over the top and it needs to be curbed.

Geoff has added his support in his role as County Health spokesman for the Liberal Democrats - for the remaining Hospital dedicated to caring for military injured to be kept open and not closed early next year - arguing that with more and more campaigns being fought around the world, our military deserve the facility and proper facilities can be maintained.

The Royal Military Hospital at HASLAR, Gosport in Hampshire now run by the NHS is due to close completely in March 09, this is a disgrace when the Government is more than happy to send these folk on all sorts of missions - many of them not supported by the Public in any form. We owe it to these people in uniform to have dedicated medical facilities of the highest quality.

I urge all those who do feel strongly to contact their MP and also register their protest on the Downing Street website at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk

Geoff has added his voice to those who continue to be anxious about the role of NICE - the Government body which approves or otherwise new drugs in the NHS and repeatedly disappoints people who need new drugs.

 This body is quite firmly a body that is in the business of saving money - of itself nothing wrong with that but dont hide under a banner which talks about clinical excellence and tells people with various forms of cancer - recently kidney that you cannot have a treatment because of cost. This body should be about helping people to extend life or the quality of that life, it should not be seen increasingly as an agency of the Treasury - anxious to cut budgets. Some honesty and real transparency in decision making is needed and overdue.

Geoff has joined other County Councillors in repeating his experience that repairs carried out on the Highways for a low price - frequently come back and hit you again and end up costing you significantly more money - and give poor value.

His comments come as a study shows that in Cambridgeshire over £40000 has been paid out in compensation in recent times due to damage sustained by drivers or other road users, whilst you cannot get a lot repaired for that cash - there is the hidden cost of dealing with these claims, the aggravation caused all round.

Spend wisely to begin with and do a good job first time round

and everyone is happy

Geoff has expressed his concerns - at some proposals put forward by Westminster MP”s in an effort to seek popularity in dealing with youth crime.

I am afraid after 16 years as a JP in the City and East Cambridgeshire - experience tells me again and again, nip the problem in the bud at a young age with proper control and teaching of what is right and wrong, effective punishments and you stand some chance of bringing the young into adulthood with some sense of responsibility to their fellow man.

Cotton wool and nimby solutions will get you nowhere, the Public are fed to the back teeth with Politicians - especially at National level coming up with trite solutions and forgetting the victims of crime - whether they be low or high level.

Solutions must be robust, firm and fair to have wide acceptance

Geoff has said he is absolutely delighted that - following advice by Planning Officers, proposals to demolish a significant residential property at the southern end of Queen Ediths Way - have been withdrawn, this is wonderful news.
It also shows the power of people campaigning - there has been a widespread uprising against this proposals which had been transmitted to the Council, democracy can work!

Geoff has received news from County Highways - that money has been allocated to re-surface the Northern end of Queen Edith’s Way in the very near future, final costings are being obtained from contractors. This will greatly improve part of the highway on a very busy route and I am delighted.

The fight for longer term improvements continues

Geoff and fellow City Councillors in the ward - are urging the City Council to come up with some imaginative plans to uplift the shop area - particularly at a time when shops are empty once more and others are having quite a difficult time during the current economic problems facing the Country.

The City with its many departments has sadly neglected this area for far too long - and we need “serious investment” over a period of time to restore some sense of community and belonging - and develop a focal point for the centre of the area. There is scope to really get something special done here - if people will look forward into the future and have “some vision”

Clearly we would welcome IDEAS, so if you have a thought of what you would like to see - do get in touch

Geoff has heard from Planning Officials, that the latest application to demolish a perfectly good residential house at the southern end of Queen Edith’s Way - is likely to be refused by Planners on the grounds that the proposed development is unsuitable for the location.

This is great news, there is a sense now that Planning Officers are at last listening to residents and I very much hope we can continue to fight off any new applications that come along.

Geoff has received written assurances that anti social behaviour - is being regularly policed by extra patrols and will continue to do be so.

This follows representations to Geoff from residents on the Avenue who have suffered nuisance and damage over recent weeks. I can only say at this stage that this is a problem which neeeds watching and if any resident becomes aware of fresh problems, they should contact the Police and myself.

Geoff argues very strongly that the current responsibility and accountability system within the NHS should change - and the patient should be absolutely clear - when things go wrong or mistakes are made - who within a Trust is ultimately responsible and where necessary a job is on the line.

It follows the latest example of mistakes being made and sloppy house-keeping in Kent where nearly 90 vulnerable adults died from various hospital acquired bugs, the Chief Executive left the Trust and the Chairman resigned, however the Chief Executive was not brought to book - and has subsequently gone on to take high powered jobs elsewhere as an adviser and collected a very handsome payout from the taxpayer. “This simply cannot be right - if you are at the top of an organisation you should be held accountable and seen to be. 

Geoff raised the whole issue of the County Council refusing to replace an old style street light demolished in a recent road accident with the same style - at the latest Full County Council meeting with the Cabinet Member responsible.

The light column in Blinco Grove was hit then removed in early June and since that time despite many calls, many emails and letters the Council have refused to budge.

I want the Council to acknowledge the unique position of this street and not put in place some hideous modern column with a white dome on the top. We will keep pressing the case

Geoff has recently met with a number of residents on the Southern end of Queen Edith’s Way - concerned at yet another planning application which would see a perfectly good family home demolished and replaced with four flats.

This whole situation is getting out of control - and I have made representations to the City Planners on the latest episode. I am hopeful that they will see the folly of this application and throw it out

Geoff has reported a number of damaged or missing road-signs around the ward to Cambridgeshire Highways for repair or replacement as soon as possible.

At the same time he asks that residents report faulty or dirty bollards at junctions - I have come across a number in recent weeks which are there for safety at the end of the day

Geoff has received a number of complaints over recent days from a number of resident’s - worried that hedges are getting higher and deeper and in many cases over flow on to pavements - making it very difficult in a number of locations to use the pavements - without getting hit by vegetation amongst other things.

Folk are reminded that they must keep hedges in good order behind the boundary of the highway - otherwise they are liable to prosecution and having a bill for making the area safe

A statement by the Post Office Minister in recent days that he is not in a position to save any Post Office Branch - has been slammed by Geoff as both irresponsible and dishonest. After all it is at the behest of Government that the current closure programme or politely called “Network Change programme” is underway.

Government has repeatedly made decisions which have taken work away from local branches - including the decision to get more pensions paid into Banks, taking away the ability to tax your vehicle at the local branch - and now the re-tendering of the service surrounding the Post Office credit card.

YES there is a subsidy to Post Office Counters - but this is a Public Service which is relied upon by thousands, this is another example of a Government that knows the cost of everything and the value of nothing!

Following a site visit and more complaints about the condition of the covers - Geoff has been in contact with Highways to inspect and repair a group at the Addenbrookes’ end of the road, there has to be concern that sooner rather than later there will be a nasty accident due to the un-evenness of the surface nearby.

What is to happen to the land adjoining Queen Edith’s Chapel and behind Godwin Way - is still far from certain despite representations by Geoff to the City Council. The area is getting very overgrown and tatty and needs a good tidy up first then some decisions made as to what is to happen too it longer-TERM.

I very much hope fresh questions of the City Council will bring forth some definitive answers - once and for all.

Geoff has repeated his concern about proposals for a new super clinic come health centre at St Neots - as the Public Consultation on the story comes to an end.

Whilst the town is growing, the need for such a clinic at St Neots is undefined yet there is clear and growing evidence that more health provision is required in Fenland - by the Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust themselves especially in and around Wisbech. Furthermore the transport links to the town both in the evening and weekend is such - that many people without their own transport would have serious access issues.

There has also to be some questions about the ongoing viability of other small GP surgeries - if people get siphoned off to attend the new clinic. 

Geoff has welcomed the start of new building work on the Netherhall Upper School site in Queen Edith’s Way - which will eventually see all Education being carried out on one site - rather than as now - two.

Both from a cost point of view - but also the disruption to the working day and having to cross a very busy road, I am very pleased that at last this work is underway and look forward to seeing the new facilities in due course - which will enhance even further the reputation of the School - already excellent.

Geoff has now received confirmation from Highway’s staff - that following his request for a inspection of the condition of stretches both near the Park and at the junction with Hills Road - they agree with him that they are in need of repair, repairs have been ordered and it is hoped that work will be carried out in the next month.

Geoff is giving his support to the renewed campaign for the disused Rail link from March to Wisbech to be re-opened and provide a useful economic and transport boost to Fenland.

Given the growth in this part of Cambridgeshire - and the chronic congestion that is the main road link - the A47, it is highly sensible to be getting this part of the rail network back into use and help with the re-vitalisation of this oft neglected part of the County.

People can lobby both the Prime Minister through the Downing Street website but also to be sending representations to the Secretary of State for Transport - Ruth Kelly

Geoff as a former Magistrate of some 16 years on the City Bench - has entered the debate surrounding the gathering storm around knife crime - and who should be taking responsibility for it.

I am clear that it is a prime responsibility of the parent, they brought the child into the world, should know where they are, who they are with and critically what they are up too - at a given moment in time, Society is far too easily persuaded that its everyone else’s problem, it is not.

The Law Enforcement agencies are for the most part afraid to do their job - this despite the fact that they except a warrant which says - I will maintain the Queen’s Peace without fear or favour, far too much time is spent driving around in cars and vans, very rarely getting out to walk the pavements and actually get to know their Community - and if they do suspect wrong doing are put off from action - because of human rights legislation or too many forms to fill in at the Police Station. Courts are timid - and reluctant to tell it as it is, WHY?

Until and unless we return to a position where Communites work together, school’s are supported over discipline, youth workers return on mass to help youngsters grow and learn life skills or playing as a team - and we rebuild streets and roads to actually talk with each other, we shall continue to slide down a path towards a ever more broken Society - with all the additional costs that brings with it.

It is not just a problem for me to tackle, or for our Police Officer, or for our Schools - it is OUR RESPONSIBILITY TOGETHER!

Geoff in supporting local residents on Blinco Grove - who wish to see an old style street light column replaced with like for like - has expressed his frustration and anger at the attitude of County officers - who will not fund the old style and want to put a new column with white light affixed - which would be completely out of keeping with the rest of this street.

When I have asked for like column to be be put in place - I have been told there is a price difference of some £700, their budget will not stand the difference, I say WHY, The COUNTY COUNCIL say they listen, are responsive to local concerns etc etc, this would be a golden opportunity to show it in a practical way - instead officers send messages backwards and forwards saying NO, they have ceased to show imagination, flexability or more importantly - to listen too local people, this cannot be right.

Geoff is planning to raise the whole issue at the forthcoming Council Meeting on 22nd July

Geoff has expressed his deep concern at news - that Ambulances on their way too and from Addenbrookes are being significantly delayed at Hills Road Bridge - due to the Guided Bus project.

Sooner rather than later I fear a tragedy - and however important some in the County Council might feel this project is - I am not one of them as it happens, an emergency vehicle should not have to deal with evenmore delay on one of the key routes from the site to the City Centre.

We have been told again and again by project officers - that a lane in either direction would be kept open, this is simply not happening, one evening recently i came over the bridge and saw 3 ambulances in the southbound line of traffic waiting, this is simply not acceptable.

Geoff has warmly welcomed the decision of the BMA in recent days - which backs the campaign gaining momentum - which seeks to change the rules, penalising patients who wish to buy drugs initially blocked by NICE on behalf of the NHS as being too expensive.

The Health Secretary and NICE need to be listening more to ordinary patients - often in severe pain and distress who wish to have “justifiable relief” from their difficulties.

The NHS cannot supply everything - but should not be allowed to block those patients who wish to help themselves.

Resident’s should be sitting down and writing the letters - pointing out why it will effect them if St John’s Post Office closes, how difficult it will be for them to access the nearest on Cherry Hinton Road - not least because of the condition of footpaths, the number of junctions to be crossed or in the case of the disabled - how they might even travel to the alternative.

Geoff also indicates there will be Public Meetings about the issue - public stalls in the Market Place on Saturday 12th July and everyone should take part - and leave the Post Office management in no doubt as to how local people feel.

Geoff has been in touch with Highways Officers - concerning the damage that is being inflicted on the footpath at the junction of Fendon Close and Fendon Road - as a result of building work being carried out nearby.

All too often builders carry our work like this - and dont give a toss for the damage they with contractors inflict on footpaths or for that matter from time to time the highway itself. Action will be take place if the builder does not make good.

Residents are encouraged to support the latest petition which seeks to get Government to move the current Revenue limits on what voluntary car drivers can claim - when  working for instance with the East of England Ambulance Service conveying people from their homes to Health Centres or Hospitals.

Geoff says these volunteers provide a very vital service particularly for the elderly from rural areas - and are amongst the victims of the latest rise in fuel costs - which Government could help with - if they had the political will to do so.

The petition can be found at petitions.pm.gov.uk/charitydrivers

Ever wondered how street lights get repaired, pot-holes filled or a dangerous stretched of pavement repaired, well there’s no magic it can only happen if someone reports it for action, dont assume someone else has!

We are starting a new scheme whereby particularly on road and pavement repairs - we get a picture of how long it takes for the County Council to respond and get it right - more about that in next issue of FOCUS.

Meanwhile see something wrong please contact me or one of the Ward Councillors, take a photo if you can, date you saw it then we can track progress to a conclusion.

Following a series of complaints about how dirty this road was - Geoff asked Streetscene to do a weekend visit when all the Addenbrookes’ Hospital vehicles would be missing or could be persuaded to move. Consequently on Sunday the 6th of July the mobile sweeping machine duly arrived and gave the street a right proper clean.

It looks so much better after a visit said Geoff - carrying out an inspection later

The fight can now begin - after the announcement has been leaked that St Johns’ Post Office is one of 3 in the City due to be closed and not replaced by any other facility says Geoff.

In the course of the next six weeks - I will be encouraging residents nearby to write into the Post Office on the threat and to explain that the nearest office half way down Cherry Hinton Road is by no means convenient for people living half way along Hills Road or the roads and streets nearby e.g. Hartington Grove, Marshall Road, Glebe Road.

Like others I am extremely cross that the six week consultation period falls right at the height of the peak holiday season so many people will not have the chance to express their views. Every effort must now be made to use the office and to point out to Post Office bosses how stupid it will be to close St Johns.

Geoff has received a number of complaints - over the past few days about the standard of grass-cutting being carried out in several parts of the ward, the amount that gets left behind and the tall pieces of growth that are not getting dealt with.

I suspect it might have something to do with equipment used and time allocated within the contract, but I will get to the bottom of the problem with Street-Scene.

Geoff has pledged to fight all the way - if St John’s Post Office on Hills Road appears on the Closure list by Post Office Limited early next week. This office whilst small serves a very populated area - including Clifton Road business park and Hills Road Sixth Form College, it badly needs investment not least in its fabric - and I am determined to do all I can if a closure is announced to protect it.

Geoff has continued to receive a number of emails, phone calls about the chaos surrounding the Bridge work - in connection with the Guided Bus project, which frequently results in long lines of traffic waiting on both sides of the Bridge in an effort to use a single carriageway. HE himself has witnessed vehicles used by the contractors parked for long periods in one of the lanes, with no sign of work being carried out, workmen studying the lines of vehicles waiting to use the bridge, people getting frustrated by the long waits, the extra fuel being burnt and yes the pollution.

He has written in strong terms to the Project Manager at County Council - but as yet had no response. This is another example of a Council who fails to listen to its public and all too often ignores the voices of dissent!

I have been appalled by what I have seen over recent weeks.

I HAVE also raised the issue of the longer term improvements needed on this bridge for cyclists and pedestrians and basically been told there is no cash in the short term and we could therefore be returning to the drawing board. I plan to raise the issue again with Cabinet on 22nd July

Following a number of complaints - about how difficult it is to keep the Avenue clean - due to the parked vehicles during the working week, Geoff has been in contact with Streetscene and arrangements have been made to clear the street on a Sunday morning in early July.

I am very pleased and grateful for the assistance from the City Council on this problem - and have also asked for some visits after the cleaning - to check on the amount of litter that is clearly being disposed of, on the street by the motorists parking.

If other roads or streets have a similar problem at anytime - they can seek help by contacting Geoff or Alan

Warnings from bosses who run the East of England Air Ambulance Service that they are being hit hard by rising fuel costs and maybe forced to scale back their operations - has been described by Geoff as an absolute disgrace - and only goes to strengthen his argument that this vital piece of equipment should not have to rely on the generousity of the Public to keep it operational.

We live in a predominately Rural County - and this Ambulance often makes the difference between life and death all too real, part of the rising fuel cost comes down to the fuel taxation regime under the Government - and they should be taking the appropriate steps to ensure “proper funding and fuel therefore” is available.

I urge everyone to make the appropriate representations now to local MP”s and the Chancellor direct.

Following representations to Geoff about the number of Buses and Coaches using Sedley Taylor Road as a cut-through to Long Road Sixth Form College - he contacted Transport Bosses at Shire Hall - arguing that notleast for safety reasons they ought to be using main roads like Hills Road.

County officials have now responded that they have been talking with the main coach operator - and they will now be using Hills Road for the remainder of the term as an experiment.

Geoff has raised a number of questions with colleagues, Rail Operator - East Midlands Trains and Department of Transport officials - as to why the Train Operating Company for the Service from Norwich to Liverpool via Ely, Peterborough see no apparent reason to improve either the level of service currently provided, its speed or indeed its rolling stock.

For the most part this Service which takes 5 hours to reach Liverpool - uses a twin set diesel set, is frequently overcrowded, frequently has no catering until it reaches Nottingham and has people standing for long distances and this from a Region which is growing in population and is going to have to take more growth in housing.

If Government, if the Rail Industry is serious about getting modal change and wants to take more folk from their cars - then this key Regional Service has to have proper investment, longer trains and a faster overall speed in delivery.

There is a long way to go before - rail customers can see a high quality Regional service being provided given the fare structure of this Stagecoach owned franchise

Following fresh representations about the upkeep of land between Queen Edith’s Chapel and adjoining properties, Geoff has been in touch with City Homes - about what possible solutions could be found - not least to ensure the area is at least kept reasonably tidy in the meantime.

This is one of those funny shape pieces of land which no one actually wants to develop - yet can soon fall into a state of disrepair with all the added problems that this would bring.

Geoff has recently sought an update from County Transport officers - on where things currently stand in trying to push forward with improvements to the layout of the Bridge - for both cyclists and pedestrians and been advised that there is no early timetable likely - due in part to the Guided Bus development and the need to look afresh at options.

I am very disappointed indeed - given the level of concern about safety on this Bridge, high volume of users and the fact that we have had wide discussion locally with workshops and the like to see a preferred option move forward - and in essence it has come to nothing.

I will raise this afresh with the Cabinet next month - since I believe there has to be some real Political interest in this Bridge to drive an early resolution forward - otherwise more delay will simply mean accidents and evenmore reduced confidence in using the Bridge other than in a car - which is not what any of us wish to see.

Geoff has joined colleagues in the Oppostion Liberal Democrats on the County Council - in attacking the decision by the ruling Conservative administration to set up a quango - to look at what should happen next in composing ideas and solutions to the growing Cambridge Traffic issue - arguing that elected representatives are sent to Shire Hall to make decisions - even if they sometimes are unpopular but that is accountable government - not having a Committee of the Great and the Good who are not elected, not responsible for the decisions or spending public money.

This is a sad and unfortunate decision by the new Leader of the Council - and throws the problem to a Commission in smoke-filled room, delays making some wide reaching movement on a problem which will not simply go away - because of the shouts coming from the vested interest groups to do nothing!

What will be the accountability of this Commission to people in the City, East Cambs, Huntingdonshire or South Cambridgeshire - and will the conclusions they come up with be acceptable to the electors, those who have to foot the bills nevermind the Government who have said they will put major investment into Public Transport if a scheme can be identified that could work?

This is bound to be a painful and at times unpopular process - but we owe it to future generations to get it right - and to ensure decisions made are transparent and as far as is possible - widely accepted. The jury is out…..

Geoff reports that the Bishop of Ely has confirmed the appointment of a new priest for St James’ to succeed the Reverend David Deboys who left earlier this year for a parish in London. Reverend Jutta Brueck currently Chaplain of Fitzwilliam College here in the City will start her new post later this year.

The Service of Induction and Licensing will take place on Friday the 3rd of October, 730pm

Geoff has welcomed moves which mightwell - see more Police Officers back on the beat and out of vehicles because of the problems associated with rising fuel costs arguing that is precisely what the Public wish to see - and will enable officers to get much nearer to residents and their worries.

It is ironic that fuel costs might bring us back to the days of Dixon of Dock Green - some may say good days, others might argue old fashioned, however it is clear that the only effective way to deal with actual crime, pick up intelligence and talk with real residents - is to return to the days when the local Police were known by all - and not seen to be someone who flew through a village on two-s and blues!

Geoff as a keen Rail Campaigner and User has given his support to work now underway by RAILFUTURE to prepare a paper for presentation to a number of bodies - including Network Rail and East of England Government Officer - on what steps could be taken to improve Rail links with the rest of the UK from Fenland including March, Manea and Whittlesey plus critically getting the appropriate stages planned for a re-opening of the link from March to Wisbech.

This part of Fenland has significant economic issues, a poor transport network, work is underway to develop the Port of Wisbech with a new Marina opportunities which could help restore a rail link at Wisbech - both for freight and passengers. Much of the infrastructure is still in place - so the likely capital cost could be relatively low compared with the benefits.

I will certainly be doing what i can with colleagues to get this issue back on the radar - critically get some plans in place.

Geoff wearing his County Health Spokesman’s hat, argues that the Tories in their recent announcement on where the NHS will go if they form the next Government - has missed the whole issue of democratic control of the largest Public Service in the UK - and believes this is a missed opportunity.

I do of course acknowledge that the Tories are focussing more attention on outcomes and quality of Healthcare and that is spot-on - but they continue to ignore the fact that the NHS is a multi-billion pound operation run by appointed Senior Directors with a professional Management - but when things go wrong - the only accountability is to the Secretary of State not the voter or the patient!

We continue as a Party to argue that elected Councillors nearer to the local Community - should play a more direct role in planning and monitoring of Health Service delivery - since in the end those Councillors can be removed from office when the electorate believe a Service has failed to deliver.

Geoff has again made representations to both the Police and to the Highway Authority - following complaints and indeed his own visual monitoring - that motorists are quite blatently abusing the No Right Turn restriction from Hills Road into Nightingale Avenue - both to enable parking in the Avenue and in using the Avenue as a rat-run from Hills Road - especially at peak periods.

I have again and again asked for robust enforcement of this restriction - otherwise it might just as well be removed. I am concerned that sooner rather than later - there is going to be an accident on this junction in close proximity to the controlled crossing.

Geoff has been given assurances from the Head of the Guilded Bus Project - that the Bridge will not be closed again - in order to alter the height of the Bridge. Such work that needs to be carried out will be carried out - during off peak hours and be controlled by traffic lights.

Given recent problems associated with Hills Road Bridge, delays to traffic etc, I did not wish to see more problems affect drivers on Long Road by future work.

Geoff is in discussion with County Council officials - about the medium to long term arrangements for Queen Edith’s Primary school - following a series of meetings he has had with the Headteacher and Chair of Governors. There are a number of maintenance issues with the current building - some of which are very worrying financially - and with planned growth in the housing for the South of the City - there is an issue of how we might get a new School and when?

I am clear that given the level of investment made in the School by the County Council over recent years - we need help and ideally need to be planning a

Geoff has given a very warm welcome to news that the Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust will continue to deliver a variety of services from the Brookfields site - and give a vote of confidence in Davidson House and rehab services - following an extensive period of consultation on what ought to be the future.

This is very welcome indeed and will also see additional beds being provided which given growth predictions for the City and South Cambridgeshire - a very necessary step. However given the difficulties in recruiting expert staff - there remains some anxiety on the ability to sustain services in the longer run.

Geoff has warmly re-acted to news that following representations to the County Council about the need to promote Bus Service 114 from Addenbrookes Hospital via Mowbray Road to the Grafton Centre - that a new leaflet has been produced and free offers for use on the service will help it until the end of September this year.

I am thrilled that my efforts have made a difference and this Bus Route has been given a life-line, I just hope now that residents will take full advantage and use the Service, wonderful news.

Geoff has been in touch with the City Ranger and Streetscene about the condition of the central verge and adjoining hedges at the junction between Long Road and Robinson Way - which is used by significant numbers of pedestrians using both the Hospital, Nursery and parts of the Hospital site.

Heavy rain in recent weeks has made the situation much worse than normal, a good tidy up will help everyone.

Geoff has criticised the decision of the County Council Cabinet who have decided to put a £2 million underspend into Reserves rather than allow it to be spent on services - at a time when so many things need funding but the constant cry is we have no budget for it!

Again and Again I am told when I was stretches of pavement repaired or re-surfaced, old street lights replaced, roads adopted, parking restrictions advertised and put in operation, we have no cash this year - can it wait?

Fine we would all like to see Council Tax low, but at the end of the day - the Council has responsibilities to its electorate who want good services, safe pavements and some respite from constant overflow car parking - yes that takes cash and that is precisely what it should be spent on. Added to which every day a repair or re=surfacing is delayed will give bigger problems later on when the eventual day comes to tackle the issue.

Geoff has given a warm welcome to news that every nursing team will be assessed for their standard of care delivered on Hospital wards in the coming year - which will include friendliness, help with different needs, attitude and communication which ensures that patients are being listened too.

Anything that improves the patient’s experience in Hospital has to be good news, but we must be careful not to overload staff with another piece of survey work. I think it would also be very revealing to examine the ration between qualified and agency staff on duty - especially in the evenings and weekends - when Trusts often find it hard to cover properly with appropriate levels of staff.

One of the direct results of continuing pressure on County Council highway’s being cut - is that drains and gulleys simply dont get the maintenance they used to get once upon a time - what then happens is we get heavy rainfall, they cannot cope and the rainwater collects on the road, all too often flooding the surface which is of itself a significant road safety risk. Local Councillors have recently reported fresh problems both in Hills Road and Long Road to the County for clearing.

If you are aware of any problem area’s elsewhere in the ward with more heavy rain forecast - then please do get in touch with us and we will take the appropriate action.

In response to another batch of planning applications for the demolition of established houses on the northern end of Queen Edith’s Way and their replacement by “luxury flats” - Geoff as a local resident of some 27 years in the ward has expressed his dismay at the way - these character homes are being taken away from the local landscape.

In supporting other local residents who are making representations to the City Planners, i have written in and complained that the new developments are drab, soul-less and will do nothing to help the local need for homes that people can actually afford. It will increase the feeling that is developing - that these new units will be filled with commuters - who will add nothing to the local community from any perspective.

Its a very sad day indeed and the number of these applications are growing, corporate greed is at the root of this new landscape.

Geoff has written to County Transport bosses seeking an update on where plans to make improvements to Hills Road rail bridge have reached - after a long gap since consultation meetings took place, there is an urgent need to make the facilities for cyclists and pedestrians using this bridge to be improved. During the week significant numbers of movements occur not least to and from the Hills Road Sixth form college, I am concerned about safety and am urging the Council to inform us of the likely timetable for work to happen.

The residents’ of Rock Road are continuing a long held tradition of having a street party on the 18th of July in the road for all the Community - with a variety of activities including an event in the garden of the library. It would be nice to see this sort of activity in other parts of the ward - and it is to be encouraged, if you would like more information on who is organising this day please get in touch with Geoff

Geoff reports that following the vandalism of early May, the Community Notice board is now repaired and back in action, if any Community Group would like to advertise their event, recruit new members or bring something to the attention of the wider community, please feel free to give the material to Geoff or the Area Ranger and it will be put on the board.

News on when improvements are due to be made to the pavilion are expected shortly.

Geoff and Alan have received fresh worries about the way in which a number of people are using this service road, the way in which some folk are parking - not always very thoughtfully. Additionally we are having regular complaints about people parking in the bungalow private areas, on the footpath near the chinese store. We have been discussing the situation with City Council officers - to examine enforcemenet arrangements and any new measures we need to look at.

As is often the case a few are being a nuisance to the annoyance of the many.

Geoff in his role as Cambridgeshire County Spokesman for Health has expressed concern - at news that a pilot involving 16 Secondary Schools in BRISTOL could be extended Nationwide - this could see young people in Netherhall School having an on site clinic and need not be known about by parents of individual pupils.

There are a number of concerns associated with this possible development including the age of pupils who might seek advice - and it need not be for theretic purposes - it could be they are being pressurised into a relationship at a very young age with many wide implications - not to say of course that relations under 16 are still illegal under the current law.

I am seeking an early meeting with the Principal and Chair of Governors at Netherhall to see their views and advice on this issue

Following recent representations by Geoff and a site meeting with Cambridgeshire Highways, work has now been ordered to carry out a number of repairs on the section between Fendon Road and Wulfstan Way.

This section of the road is in very poor condition with severe camber in a number of places and surface faults, hopefully it will not be too long before we see the whole road properly re-surfaced.

Geoff has received news from County Highways - that only one of the ward’s roads will be re-surfaced in the coming year due to budget constraints.

Baldock Way will be the fortunate candidate and that is good for them but not for the rest of the ward - where we have some pretty awful road surfaces which are crying out for a new surface. I shall continue to make representations to Officers to ensure as far as I can - that we get a better deal in the next allocation

Geoff in a submission to the Licensing Committee of the City Council - which will consider later this month - an application to put up taxi fares by nearly 5% - has argued that this level of increase significantly above the rate of inflation and the level of uplift in pensions and other benefits - will hit those on fixed incomes the hardest and cannot be justified!

Disabled and other clients often have to use taxis because public transport is either not convenient or suitable - the taxicard system helps to an extent but still means the use of a taxi for shopping or other social contact is very expensive.

I very much hope the Council will review both the taxicard system and this proposed increase in taxi fares

Geoff has expressed his disappointment and frustration at news that the Planning application for developing nearly 350 new units behind the Bell School has been approved by 6 votes to 2. My principal concerns remain the unsuitability of the junction on Babraham Road to access the new development and the likely impact on local services - such as the Wulfstan Way doctors’ surgeries and Queen Edith’s Primary School.

These are facilities already under significant pressure - and this development when it takes place will only add to that pressure with in my view “inadequate level of funding” from the developer.

Geoff has learnt from County Transport Officers who deal with the issuing of Bus Service contracts - that unless significantly more people use the Service 114 along Mowbray Road to Grafton Centre - that there is every chance the service will be cancelled due to the heavy subsidy that is being provided.

Geoff has previously complained that some of the vehicles used are tatty, Dirty and difficult for many people to access, he has also observed that frequently there is no destination information on the vehicles.

I would welcome comment and feedback from local people on this service, but the main thing while we campaign for improvements - is USE IT OR LOOSE IT

Geoff has written to the Transport Secretary - Ruth Kelly arguing that in the light of the increasing pressure on the County and its rail services she should be bringing forward serious plans to enhance the capacity both from Cambridge to London - but equally important the cross country links to Peterborough, Birmingham, Sheffield and Liverpool. this would have a number of benefits - notleast it would cut the number of very long car journeys, stop the overcrowding on the Norwich to Liverpool route which often only has two carriage trains and are not particularly fast. It is appalling that in the latest franchise arrangement - very little is said about developing this route.

Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrats’ Health Spokesman - Cllr Geoff Heathcock - has attacked more examples of elderly being forced to be separated due to the appalling Continuing Care policies of the Labour Government.

We read in Hampshire this week of another couple both in their 80’s who will spend their final days - in two difficult locations because one is paid for by the State and one is self-funding, this is decrimination of the worse possible kind, these people have paid their taxes, they have paid their national insurance, they deserve and should get the dignity in their later years of having a quality of life together.

Government keeps talking about dignity and saying they care, this demonstrates neither.

After a five month battle with Cambridgeshire Highways - over a street light in the slip road at Hills Road - close to Worts Causeway which had been burning away 24 hours a day, Geoff has finally got the contractor to visit the site and carry out a repair.

We had various reasons given why this light had not been repaired - including not being able to find it, having visited a different site altogether in Hills Road near the Railway Station and not finding it on its database!

We got there in the end!

You have a street-light problem near you, let me know about it

Geoff is seeking information from the Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust about fresh worries - indicating that many people are having very real difficulty in accessing NHS dentistry - after 18 months operation of the new contract - and says this is simply not good enough - given the level of resource going into the NHS.

I am aware of some hot-spots around the County, but I am particularly interested to know from areas in the City and South Cambridgeshire - if people are experiencing a problem in finding a dentish who will take on new patients to a NHS list.

Shall be pleased to hear from any resident.

Geoff has made written representations on behalf of Babraham Road Resident’s to the Joint Development Control Committee which later this month will decide whether the revised planning permission for the Bell School site will be allowed.

This has been a two year fight with County Highway’s Officers and the developer - and surrounds the nature of the proposed junction on Babraham Road, “its proposed safety features” and of course the whole size of the development.

I am very anxious indeed - given traffic levels on this road what might happen if this development is allowed. Additionally, with a late alteration to the development, there are significant concerns about the ability of local services like the Queen Edith’s Primary School and GP practices - to have the capacity to deal appropriately with the
additional pressure. I very much hope the JDCC will refuse this application.

Geoff is meeting with the Executive Councillor for Community and Property Services - together with Officers later this month to show them for themselves the concerns he has on behalf of his colleagues and local residents - about the condition of the shops, the outlook of the area, parking difficulties for customers and associated problems.

This area is now some 50 years old and sadly it looks and feels it, I am keen with my colleagues to try and get agreement for a future action plan - which will enhance the area and lift it. I recognise that finance will be a problem but I fundamentaly believe we must “address the issue” and come forward with some answers

Geoff in his role as County Health and Communities Spokesman for the Liberal Democrats - has come out strongly against the possibility of another settlement of some 8000 between Hinxton and Duxford - and argues it will neither be eco-friendly or green - and threatens what is left of the green landscape south of the City of Cambridge.

Additionally, with its proposed location it will add considerably to pollution, congestion and pressure to Local Health Services especially Addenbrookes Hospital and GP Services.

Northstowe is being properly planned - more extension is being allowed at Cambourne, Hanley is not needed and is inappropriate

Geoff has warmly welcomed news that some more speed-checks have taken place on Queen Edith’s Way in recent days following a number of complaints to the Police - about the number of vehicles who are clearly using the “straight section” for speed trials.

Geoff added “This is great news after months of making representations to the Police I am very pleased they have responded and caught a significant number of motorists abusing the speed-limit in what is a busy residential area

Consultation is now underway to look at proposals by Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust - to have a new super Health Centre somewhere in St Neots on the western fringe of the County which would open to 8pm in the evening 7 days a week.

Geoff in his role as County Liberal Democrat Health Spokesman said “the principle might well be fine but its hard to understand why the PCT have picked St Neots when there is clear need for the deprived area of Fenland to have more facilities - additionally I have some concern as to how many folk without their own transport, will access the Health Centre by Public Transport at weekends and evenings - when Buses dont always provide a good service.

Geoff in his role as the County Liberal Democrat spokesman for Health - is encouraging all residents to sign the petition put forward by the British Medical Association in support of retaining the local GP practice as we have known it for several decades - against a background of Government attempts to try and introduce polyclinics with up to 20 doctors - who Geoff says would clearly lack the ability to know their “individual patient” and their history. We must fight hard to keep that which has worked and worked very well and against the notion that Big is Beautiful, it often isnt - so lets keep what we have been comfortable and well served by

Geoff has been fighting since January to get EDF the Electricity Company to repair a critical light on the main Addenbrookes’ Hospital roundabout which has been out of action. Having been passed around the system and kept up a regular chasing of both the County Council and EDF - he has been advised this week that a repair is now around the corner, because of its location on a busy junction it maywell have to be done at night!

What price privitisation and to a foreign owned Company - and all because the ‘man wanted one street light repaired’

Based on the battle we had a few years ago in Queen Edith’s to save the Wulfstan Way sub post office - it seems very likely that when the new list of closures appear in early July - we shall again see a threat either to St Johns’ Post Office or Cherry Hinton Road Post Office, meanwhile use it and confound those getting ready to hit us with another closure.

I have been in regular touch for some weeks with Officers at the Street-Lighting department in Shire Hall, following a number of faults which I have either had reported to me - or have seen for myself as I move around the ward.

Some lights on Hills Road, Mowbray Road and Queen Edith’s Way have either been out, day-burning or working infrequently over a period of several weeks - this despite assurances again and again - that lights that are faulty will be repaired quickly. In reality lights that are awaiting attention by EDF the electricity company are frequently delayed, this is simply not good enough especially in the winter months.

If you see a light not working or indeed burning away during the day, please let me know - I want to have a wardwise STREETWATCH system, lights that are faulty help no-one

Following a number of representations to him by residents of Sedley Taylor Road - Geoff has been in touch with Transport bosses at Shire Hall to seek a change in policy which currently sees contract buses use the road in order to by pass Hills Road traffic lights on route to Long Road Sixth Form College.

Geoff added “This is simply not right, the road is already being used as a rat-run, now we have the County themselves turning a blind eye to contract vehicles adding to the misery for residents - I want these vehicles using the proper and appropriate road network

Queen Edith’s County Councillor and Lib Dem Spokesman for Health on the County Council - Geoff Heathcock has slammed the recent increase in both patient and staff car parking charges as completely unacceptable and punishing both those who need to get to the Hospital on the one hand and also his residents’ in the ward - who have to endure even more parking on the streets - six days a week.

Its not good building another multi-storey car park on the site which is far too expensive for many folk who already face difficult journeys to the site, ever rising fuel bills. The policy is not helping anyone at all.

What I wish to see is more feeder bus services provided from park and ride sites on the edge of the City which are regular and cheap
for people to use.