TOWN CENTRES

More action is needed to regenerate our Towns. The last Government through the Regional Development Agency gave Erewash Borough over 56k to help Ilkeston and Long Eaton. The financial inducement has generated some good ideas. However Labour Councillors wanted Erewash to add some of its own resources to the pot but this was rejected by Tory Councillors. I think many people in Erewash would support such a move and it's a shame that there is no commitment to continue the initiative when the money runs out. Erewash get a large income from our Towns but seem very reluctent to put investment back.

EREWASH BIN BLUES

Erewash Borough Council whilst pouring over a million pounds into Parish Council pet projects decided to charge Council Tax payers for a blue recycling bin. This year the "Bin Tax" amounts to £27. However because they didn't buy in bulk and roll them out across the Borough 2 years ago they are now having to pay twice as much for the bins. Presumably the charge will skyrocket sometime soon. I believe it's been a scandalous waste of cash and shows a lack of commitment by the Council to recycling.

POLICE REFORM?

The latest Con/Dem proposals for breaking up of the Police are shambolic. A mixture of prejudice and wishful thinking that will help nobody but the criminals. The idea that if you have not got a uniform on you're not helping to cut crime is arrant rubbish. These proposals won't work, will cost more money and have to be unpicked at a later date.

MINE MINE MINE

Here I am diving off Malta. Why do people get so curious when they see an old mine. Surely I should swim the other way. Great fun though.