Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Uttoxeter Echo. This column was originally featured in the 15th September print edition.
Last week saw the return of Parliament and the end of the summer recess.
Over the preceding weeks, I spent significant amounts of my time out and about locally, visiting residents and community groups across the constituency.
Highlights for me have been meeting farmers near Uttoxeter undertaking the harvest, and taking part in the NHS and social care workers’ support event with Women’s Institute branches in Burton.
This autumn there is a significant amount in the Government’s in-tray, and a number of bills awaiting debate in Parliament: not to mention the big climate change conference—COP26—taking place in October.
As the Government delivers on plans to build back better, and doubles down on the levelling-up agenda, I would encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunities available to have their say on the Government’s plans.
The Government recently launched its consultation on making permanent many of the high street changes that were temporarily introduced for Covid-19.
From al fresco dining to marquees in pub gardens, these measures allowed businesses to adapt quickly to the coronavirus precautions, and were a lifeline for the hospitality industry. They also transformed our high streets and the way we use our town centres.
In Uttoxeter, we saw many of our much-loved restaurants and cafés take advantage of these changes, and make our town centre a more vibrant place to visit.
This simple change could ensure that our high streets remain bustling and more interesting places to visit in the future.
To take part in this consultation, please visit https://bit.ly/3z1Ji89, or write to me with your thoughts at 9 St Paul’s Square, Burton upon Trent DE14 2EF.
In Uttoxeter the consultation on the Uttoxeter Masterplan priority sites remains open until 26th September.
Residents are being asked for their views on possible interventions on the Maltings Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, the Wheatsheaf and the Quarry: the four priority areas identified for regeneration.
After a series of public drop-in sessions, information banners continue to be on display during opening hours at the Town Hall and Uttoxeter Leisure Centre.
Posters and questionnaires to take part in this consultation are also available at the Heath Community Centre, as well as online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/UttoxeterMasterplan.
