Neil Fitzgerald - Working For Sholing

A Day In The Life

2009-10-13T20:09:00.003Z

Last week I took Wednesday morning off from normal duties and life to shadow our Gateway service in the Civic Centre as part of National Customer Services week (NCS). The council has a whole range of services and it is important for councillors to see what happens with the services our taxpayers’ fund.

Gateway is at the front line, dealing with council tax, housing, benefits, parking, fine and a whole variety of issues.

Having worked in retail years ago I remember what it is like dealing with the public face to face. I was so impressed with how the staff dealt with customer queries, especially when the computer network went down. I felt like a bad luck charm and helped with photocopying to help out.

After spending the morning at Gateway, I then went to the AGM of Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS). I am one of the council representatives on the management board. SVS act as an umbrella organisation for charities and volunteering groups within our city. They also provide direct services to the public including drug rehab and projects to support the family. I was simply amazed by the variety of groups and the passion and dedicated of everyone involved.

I then went to see No Limits. No Limits is a youth support service which has a base in Sholing (Portsmouth Road). I have a regular youth surgery there so it was good to catch up and speak to young people in the area. Young people have the same aims and desires as adults. They want jobs, they want to feel safe and live in an area they feel good about.

All in all a productive day.

Gainsborough Close & Purvis

2009-09-23T21:56:00.001Z

Following concerns raised by residents, I have been made aware of issues in Gainsborough Close due to gas works taking place. I'm concerned that the situation has meant that our area is not looking its best. I understand that the compound was full of litter containing a great deal of packaging material from the gas equipment and various items had been scattered over the surrounding area as the compound is not secure.

Council staff have met with a few residents and immediately carried out a litter pick. The council has also spoken with the works manager who has promised to act on the following recommendations:

Keeping the site clear of packaging/litter.
Secure the compound with herris fencing instead of plastic barriers to prevent local youth from entering and using the materials as missiles to damage cars etc as well as preventing illegal fly tipping.
Occasionally using their mechanical sweeper to clean up the surrounding area of soil etc.

As the works will be continuing for at least a further month the manager has been asked to look into moving the compound nearer to the works as to calm the situation which he has promised to do.

Council staff will keep an eye out and report back any issues. If you have any concerns or further problems please contact me.

Letter To Echo

2009-09-18T21:58:00.000Z

Dear Sir,

Another day, another Labour moan in your printed letters pages. Labour councillors and candidates are engaging in yet more Mandleson-esq spin.

After their local election defeat, the Labour party said that they needed to rethink and check polices. It would seem that instead of offering the electorate something new, they offer the same old tired negativity.

It is the Conservatives offering a positive agenda of change in this city and the country. All Labour seem capable of is to sit on the sidelines, carp and moan and offer nothing but a constant raft of letters. I suggest that they stop venting their spleens and get on with the job of pushing their discredited government to stop breaking their promises. Our city deserves better.

Yours Faithfully,

Councillor Neil Fitzgerald
Conservative Councillor for Sholing Ward www.neilfitzgerald.blogspot.com

Middle Road Resurfacing & Street Sparkle

2009-09-01T21:35:00.001Z

Southampton City Council has resurfaced part of Middle Road. Middle Road was closed from its junction with Heath Road to its junction with South East Road.

This year under the Conservatives, the council will spend more than 18 million on roads and pavement works – the highest amount ever committed by the council in one financial year. We have allocated an extra £300,000 to tackle 4,000 potholes in the city. This is despite a crippling recession and Labour government underfunding.

Our Parliamentary Candidate Royston Smith has been made aware of concerns regarding litter in the area, primarily due to the college and schools in Middle Road. Southampton prides itself on being a clean and green city. We were recently cited as an example of best practise by the BBC and Keep Britain Tidy.

In order to ensure the area looks the best it can, Royston has worked with us to arrange a ‘Street Sparkle’. A ‘Street Sparkle’ is basically a deep cleaning system we use occasionally on heavily parked residential roads (cars parked head to tail most days) where normal street cleansing to our desired high standard is very difficult to achieve. Middle Road has had a thorough clean, with mechanical sweepers and compact sweepers to clean the road channels and footways, drainage gullies emptied, and hand cleaning signs (street name plates / road signs), removing graffiti and fly posting where required leaving the street sparkling. Later in the week the system is repeated for the other side of the street on the very busy roads.

Letter To The Echo

2009-08-24T19:30:00.001Z

Recently Labour seem to have been saying that they would look after pensioners better in Southampton. I think most pensioners remember that Labour increased their pensions by 75p a week. Locally Labour don't agree with a pensioner council tax discount. We heard from pensioners across the city asking for help with one of their biggest bills. In a recession it is vital to help those struggling. Unfortunately Labour think anyone not on benefits is automatically rich. Below is a letter I sent to the Echo.

I READ with interest that Cllr Don Thomas is now a friend of the pensioners. I have to point out that the Labour party, if elected in Southampton would raise pensioners council taxes by over 10 per cent.

For the avoidance of doubt Labour does not think pensioners should get 10 per cent off the council tax bills. Labour thinks that any pensioner who doesn’t have benefits is automatically rich. This shows how out of touch they are with the needs of pensioners.

It was Labour, not the Conservatives who insulted pensioners with a 75p a week rise in their pensions. It was Labour, not the Conservatives who raided pension funds in 1997, causing so much misery.

It was Labour, not the Conservatives who have overseen a 100 per cent increase in council tax.

Councillor Neil Fitzgerald, Conservative Councillor for Sholing Ward.

Letter To The Echo - Art Collection

2009-08-22T20:27:00.000Z

One of easiest things as a local councillor is to oppose a scheme and to try and whip up opposition. The council announced a plan to sell 2 pieces of artwork, one of which has been on loan to a gallery in Essex for years. My colleague Councillor Royston Smith was interviewed by a number of media organisatiosn over the plan. We would sell these pieces in order to expand the art gallery space and to help pay for a Heritage Centre, something residents tell me they want.

It would seem though that the opposition in Southampton would rather carp and complain. Below is a letter I sent to the Echo on the topic.

RECENTLY Cllr John Slade has been making comments as a “former mayor” to various media outlets.

Firstly, Cllr Slade calls our hard working parking attendants and city patrol officers “storm troopers”, a term which is derogatory and inflammatory.

He then appears on television to criticise the council for looking at selling two pieces of art work and says it is like “cash in the attic”. Apart from the over uses of clichés, I would point out to him that the Liberal Democrats set up city patrol in the first place and never insured our art collection.

It would seem that the Liberal Democrats are as contradictory as ever!

Councillor Neil Fitzgerald, Conservative Councillor for Sholing Ward.

St Monica's Improvements

2009-07-24T09:30:00.000Z

You may have recently noticed workmen in the area erecting 20 MPH signage around St Monica School.

The council takes the safety of our children very seriously. I am pleased to confirm that Bay Road now has a legally enforceable twenty mile per hour speed limit.

In St Monica Road there has been “twenty is plenty” signs installed to remind drivers of the need to slow down near schools.

I can also confirm that two new classrooms will be built at St Monica Junior School. This represents a significant investment in the school. I would ask for your patience will the work takes place and hope that you are not too inconvenienced by it.

North East Road Resurfaced

2009-07-20T21:30:00.000Z

Southampton City Council has recently resurfaced half of North East Road. The resurfacing work radically improved the road, providing a good, smooth durable road for motorists and cyclists. Part of the road was resurfaced last year, however due to developments and utilities work it made sense to wait until all work was completed at the bottom end of the road before proceeding.

In addition to North East Road, we have arranged for Franklyn Avenue, Wingate Drive, Portsmouth Road and part of Middle Road to be resurfaced since taking being elected last May. This is despite a crippling recession and Labour government underfunding.

This year under the Conservatives, the council will spend more than 18 million on roads and pavement works – the highest amount ever committed by the council in one financial year. We have allocated an extra £300,000 to tackle 4,000 potholes in the city.

Gladstone & Drove Road Update

2009-06-22T18:16:00.000Z

Following recent visits to your road by Conservative councillors and from feedback from local residents, we are writing to you today to give you an update on what we are doing in your area.

New signs have been installed in Gladstone Road to remind visitors that parking is for residents only. We have been made aware of parking problems by the sheltered housing accommodation and by the private road section.

Dog Fouling has also been an issue in both Gladstone Road and Drove Road. The council is organising a “poopa scooper week” commencing 22nd June at which they will target these problem areas using enforcement officers and the dog warden. Should the situation remain out of control, further action may be taken including signage for the area. It is felt though that enforcement and education are the ways forward.

Southampton faces a backlog of £500 million in road and pavement repairs. Since elected we have more than doubled the repair budget and have undertaken some key road works. This is despite a crippling recession and Labour government underfunding.

This year under the Conservatives, the council will spend more than 18 million on roads and pavement works – the highest amount ever committed by the council in one financial year. We have allocated an extra £300,000 to tackle 4,000 potholes in the city. A total of 6 pothole repairs at the junction of Drove Road and Gladstone Road have been raised and will be completed shortly.

2009-05-19T17:29:00.000Z

Supporting Small Shops

2009-05-17T17:46:00.006Z

Small shops face a rising burden of regulation and tax, a daily battle against crime and violence, and competition from the growth of out-of-town shopping centres. The Conservatives have launched a campaign to support small shops.

In Sholing I have been working hard with Royston and Gavin to support the Alfriston Gardens Shopping Parade. Improvements include:

*More Regular Street Cleaning of the area

*Installation of more bins to deal with litter

*A grit bin to allow the parade to be gritted to aid elderly residents shopping

*New dog fouling measures to keep the area clean and green

Sedgewick Road, Crosswell Close & High Firs Road

2009-05-12T17:53:00.000Z

New road signs for Sedgewick Road, Crosswell Close and High Firs Road are now on order and will be put in place in the near future. The new road signs will be in the new Southampton font and are designed to be effective against anti social behaviour and damage. They are made from recycled materials and ordered quarterly in order to be cost effective.

We also are aware of concerns regarding the road and pavement surfaces. Southampton faces a backlog of £500 million in road and pavement repairs. Since elected we have more than doubled the repair budget and have undertaken some key road works.

We have asked that the footways and road surface in High Firs Road, Sedgewick Road and Crosswell Close be inspected. A visit is being arranged for these areas and the condition of the footways assessed during the course of the summer. After inspection, if it is deemed necessary to carry out work then surfaces may be included in a future scheme.

Mowbray Road Signs

2009-05-03T15:34:00.003Z

I have arranged for road signs in Mowbray Road to be replaced.

The Conservative council is committed to improving your city and we know that small things such as road signs have a big impact on local residents.

A total of four new signs have been installed. The new road signs are in the new Southampton font and are designed to be effective against anti social behaviour and damage. They are made from recycled materials and ordered quarterly in order to be cost effective.

Youth Surgery This Wednesday

2009-05-03T15:32:00.001Z

I have another youth surgery this Wednesday at No Limits, Portsmouth Road from 4 - 6 pm.

Sholing Valleys Open Day

2009-04-14T19:11:00.004Z

Recently Royston and I were invited by Sholing Valleys to their open day. The picture above is with a baby badger that was found recently by the Secret World Wildlife Rescue Agency.

Sholing Valleys are based in Station Road / Millers Pond have been together for a number of years. They work tremendously hard keeping Millers Pond and Botany Bay Meadow clean and green.Since being elected, I have found their dedication quite amazing.

They have a great fete coming up on Saturday 9th May 11 - 3pm.

Also this weekend on Sunday the Sholing Environmental Group have their equally excellent Spring Fete on The Doorstep Green at the bottom of Kathleen Road 11 - 4pm.

Sholing Update

2009-04-09T17:39:00.002Z

Butts Road - Following concerns from local residents regarding parking problems in Butts Road, I have arranged for more enforcement officers to patrol the road in the next few weeks to combat the parking problems.

Cox's Drive - Recently I have been contacted by residents and family of residents concerned that paving slabs are uneven and could cause a risk of injury. I have been advised that the uneven paving has caused a number of issues and residents have stumbled. I am pleased to say that paving slabs will be replaced. The target date for completion of the work is 21st April 2009.

Upper Weston Lane Update

2009-03-29T15:53:00.002Z

Following concerns from residents regarding littering in Upper Weston Lane, I have been working with Gavin and Royston to draw up a plan of action.

Upper Weston Lane was recently visited by our street cleaning team and the road was swept for litter. Moving forward the road will be cleaned once and month and we are sure you will notice the difference.

Also, you may have heard of the councils “Street Sparkle” program. A ‘Street Sparkle’ is basically a deep cleaning system which is occasionally used on heavily parked residential roads. We will coordinate the big mechanical sweepers and compact sweepers to clean the road channels and footways, emptying the drainage gullies, and hand cleaning signs (street name plates / road signs), removing graffiti and fly posting where required leaving the street sparkling. Later in the week we repeat the system for the other side of the street on the very busy roads.

We are pleased to say that a Street Sparkle slot has been booked for Thursday 14th and Friday 15th May Upper Weston Lane and maybe Laxton Close (time and parked cars permitting). The whole operation is generally completed within two hours and would normally take place between 09-00 and 11-00. There will be signs in the road and leaflets will go out a few days before the Sparkle so you know it is about to happen.

You will have noticed that the road signs on the junction with Portsmouth Road have been replaced following request from residents and us. We have requested that the broken road signs in Laxton Close and those on the corner with Wright’s Hill are also replaced. The council installs new roads signs quarterly so that we are able to purchase them in bulk, keeping them as cost effective as possible. You should see new road signs within the next four months.

Afriston Gardens / Silver Birch / Chadwell Avenue Update

2009-03-15T15:25:00.000Z

Recently I have been working with Royston regarding supporting the shops in Alfriston Gardens. We have met residents after concerns that elderly residents may slip on ice on the pavements. A new grit bin has now been installed to allow shop keepers and residents to spread grit.

A request has been made to install handrail on the steps in front of the shopping parade. However, there are a number of legal complications to work on as the council does not own the land. I am though speaking to crown estates and to council officers to see what, if anything can be done. I do not expect a quick resolution to this.

There have been complaints that the shopping parade is not cleaned enough and that rubbish is left in the surrounding roads. New bins have been installed while our street cleaning team is working hard to ensure the area is kept clean and green.

For a while, there has been a horse left in the greenway - the horse which has caused concern has been moved.

Anti social behaviour has also been a concern. I have met local police a number of times and have patrolled the area. The council is investing in replacing street lighting across the city – I am keen to ensure the area is well lit.

A number of road signs in the area have been broken or are missing. These are now being replaced and a number including Alfriston Gardens and Chadwell Avenue have been replaced. The next set is those in Frobisher Gardens as well as one for Silver Birch Close. If you are aware of a road sign in need of replacement please contact me and I will see what can be done. The council orders these in bulk to provide the best possible value for money.

Butts Road Update

2009-03-02T17:23:00.000Z

I have been working with Gavin and Royston recently dealing with a raft of issues in Butts Road.

One of the traffic islands further down the road by the park has been damaged. This is in the process of being repaired. This work is in the hands of our contractor, who are in the process of replacing the central island post. Once the new post is serviced the old stump can be removed from site.

Anti social behaviour has also been a concern. I have met local police a number of times and before Christmas the council, police and other agencies lead a crackdown on illegal mini motor racing. Also, the council has invested in youth workers to work with our young people and tackle issues they may have. Further to this I now have a youth surgery at No Limits in Portsmouth Road especially for young people.

Keeping our area green and clean is a priority for the council. Litter bins have been moved closer to bus stops in Butts Road to encourage bus users to use them.

A number of road signs in the area have been broken or are missing. These are now being replaced. The next set is those on the corner of Butts Road and South East Road. Recently signs at the top of Butts Road have been replaced. If you are aware of a road sign in need of replacement please contact me and I will see what can be done. Also, the top of Orpen Road has recently been resurfaced - the road surface now is excellent.

Promise Kept - No Council Tax Above Inflation

2009-02-25T21:48:00.002Z

Southampton City Council has set our budget for the year and the Conservative administration is pleased to be able to keep our election promise made of no council tax rise above inflation.

Council tax will increase by 2.94% - the lowest in the history of the council.

Through working harder and smarter, Southampton Conservatives have found nearly £12 million of efficiency savings which have been ploughed back into keeping taxes down and improving vital public services.

Our promises made to the electorate have been kept:

No charging for 1st resident's parking permits - promise kept
Keeping the weekly bin collection - promise kept
No council tax above inflation - promise kept
Plans for more police on Southampton's streets - promise kept
Expanding our road and pavements repairs - promise kept
Investing in education - promise kept

In addition, Southampton council will be heavily investing in keeping our children safe with investment increasing by 800k this year. The council will also be spending more on independent living by keeping the handy person service and investing more in disabled adaptations.

Botnay Bay Flooding Update

2009-02-20T15:00:00.000Z

The latest update regarding the flooding in the greenway/ Botnay Bay Road is that there is a collapsed sewer in Botany Bay Road, running down into and over the stream through Sholing Common. This has been caused by the disposal of building waste with people tipping waste over the last couple of years without planning consent or Enviromental Agency consent.

This current tipping has now covered 2 main sewers running through Sholing Common to a depth of around 9m with the result that 1 has collapsed and 1 is damaged but serviceable. As a temporary remedy Southern Water are currently over pumping sewage upstream of the problem into other sewers. There are pumps in South East Road.

The Environment Agency, Southern Water and Southampton City Council are cooperating and using all the legal powers at their disposal to resolve this matter as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

Middle Road Planning

2009-02-18T13:45:00.000Z

Following a meeting of the City's planning panel, I am pleased to say the application to build housing in Middle Road was refused. The development was not appropriate and would have impacted on the local environment.

Veracity Petrol Station / Middle Road / North East Road

2009-02-07T08:30:00.000Z

At the planning panel last month I spoke against the redevelopment of the Veracity Petrol Station. The proposed development would have impacted severely on the area. The application was refused.

This month the planning panel will be considering the development in Middle Road for 17 houses to be built creating a new section. I have concerns regarding the development and note that the planning officers recommend the scheme is refused. I have spoken with Sholing Valleys who are against the development on environmental grounds.

Also at the same meeting there is a proposed development for North East Road at 81 - 83. The scheme is a reworked plan form a previous scheme which I opposed. I am still concerned about the latest scheme because there are parking problems in the area and feel the planned development of more flats will not help.

Council Email / Website

2009-02-06T16:45:00.000Z

Southampton City Council website is undergoing essential maintenance this weekend.

Our online services will resume on Monday 9 February, so do check back then.

You can contact us in an emergency on 023 8023 3344.

You can use this number to contact Emergency Planning, Community Alarm, Community Care Services, Children’s Services & Learning, Social Care, Highways and Environmental Health, as well as for emergency repairs to council homes.

Councillor email is also down - please email me from Monday.

IMF - Britain's Recession Will Be Worse

2009-01-28T21:52:00.002Z

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects that our economy will shrink by 2.8% next year, the worst among advanced nations. This year is it set to fall to 0.5% this year, its lowest rate since World War two.

The IMF predicts that the eurozone economy is poised to shrink by 2.0% in 2009 and the US economy by 1.6%.

Shadow chancellor George Osborne said: "This is the day when the British people were confronted with the true cost of Gordon Brown's failures.

"It may be a bad day for him, but sadly it is an even worse day for the country."

Beating The Crunch

2009-01-26T22:36:00.003Z

Southampton City Council has been active during the recession to help local residents.

On Saturday, at Southampton Solent University, the council along with partners hosted a redundancy advice and support drop in session. I went along with Cllr Royston Smith to check it out.

There were a variety of advisors including those from the Jobcentre Plus, Business Link Hampshire, Citizens advice Enterprise Gateway and Southampton City College at the event offering redundancy advice, skills advice, job seeking tips, debt advice and information on setting up small businesses.

Also, the council is making sure that residents have access to all the help and advice they need. A new pocket-sized information card packed with advice for has been launched - these are available from the Civic Centre reception and other council venues, including libraries and local housing offices.

A website has also been launched with recession busting tips - www.southampton.gov.uk/crunch

If you would like a copy of the guide, drop me an email.
councillor.n.fitzgerald@southampton.gov.uk

Plan For A Low Carbon Economy

2009-01-18T19:44:00.006Z

With rising energy bills it is clear we need to move to a low carbon economy. We also need to create new josb to help during the recession. The Conservatives have announced a plan to rebalance Britain's economy.

An electricity internet – we will add computing intelligence to electricity networks by introducing a smart grid and the use of smart meters in homes. This will allow demand and supply to be intelligently managed, and pave the way for large-scale use of renewable energy sources.

A system of feed-in tariffs – we will create a decentralised energy revolution by paying people who produce energy from renewable resources.

A new national recharging network – this will enable Britain to lead the world in replacing traditional cars with electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles .

New low carbon energy sources – we will enable biogas, methane produced from farm and food wastes, to replace up to 50% of our residential gas heating.

Low carbon buildings, transport and commerce – including a new entitlement for every home to be fitted with up to £6,500 of energy efficient improvements.

The full plan can be downloaded here

New Opinion Poll Shows 13 Point Lead

2009-01-18T19:40:00.003Z

The latest Sunday Times opinion poll shows a 13% lead for the Conservatives.
The Conservatives are now on 45%, Labour 32% and the Liberal Democrats are on 14%.

Labour's Debt Crisis

2009-01-13T00:11:00.003Z

The Conservatives have today launched a nationwide advertising campaign to highlight the human consequences of Labour’s Debt Crisis.

The campaign includes a poster and an online film and shows a four week old baby alongside the slogan ‘Dad’s Nose. Mum’s Eyes. Gordon Brown’s Debt’.

Each child born in Britain is £17,000 in debt thanks to Labour's Debt Crisis.

The country is going deeper and deeper into debt and we are in danger of risking services and still raising taxes to pay for it. The interest payments will be more than what we spend on schools and the police.

The government spent too much and borrowed too much even before the credit crunch happened. We are the worst prepared of any major economy in the world.

Next Youth Surgery

2009-01-11T23:29:00.001Z

I will be at No Limits, Portsmouth Road, Sholing, this Wednesday from 5:30 - 7pm holding a youth surgery for anyone under the age of twenty five.

Cutting Crime

2009-01-11T18:30:00.002Z

Recently on the doorstep I have been asked what the Conservatives propose to do to tackle crime and disorder - a summary is below.

Labour’s top-down approach to fighting crime has failed. They have ignored the professional judgment of police officers and denied them the freedom to do their jobs - violent crime has increased as officers are forced to spend more time on paperwork than on patrol.

Cutting bureaucracy to get more police on the street
The bond between the police and the public must be rebuilt, and the first step will be cutting the paperwork which ties officers to their desks:

• We will scrap the stop and account and the stop and search forms.
• We will reform the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), which regulates police surveillance, so that authorisation is not needed in straightforward cases. At the same time, we will take steps to prevent the misuse of surveillance powers by local authorities.
• We will strengthen police powers of stop and search to enable officers to respond decisively to incidents or threats of serious crime.

Take action on knife crime
We need to get much tougher when sentencing young people caught carrying knives or who commit other knife crimes. The current system lets people off too lightly, so we will:

• Ensure that anyone carrying a knife without a reasonable excuse should be prosecuted.
• Make it clear that anyone convicted of carrying a knife should expect to receive a custodial sentence not a fine or a caution.
• Call on the Sentencing Guidelines Council to withdraw its new guidelines, due to come into force next month, which allow offenders carrying a knife to receive only a fine.

Making the police genuinely accountable to local communities:

We will take our reforms further by empowering local people
as well as police officers by:

• Introducing directly-elected police commissioners, so that police priorities reflect local needs not Whitehall diktats.

• Requiring all police forces to publish crime maps and hold quarterly beat meetings, so that local people know what is happening in their area and can demand that the police respond.

Conservatives Announce New Plans To Help Savers

2009-01-06T21:39:00.002Z

Savers are the unwitting victims during the recession. Due to failing interest rates savers are increasingly getting little return on their investments. The Conservatives want to re balance our economy to promote saving and way from the culture of debt.

David Cameron has put forward a plan which includes:

Abolishing income tax on savings for everyone on the basic rate of tax (with top rate taxpayers continuing to pay the same)

Raising the tax allowance for pensioners by £2,000 to £11,490.

These changes would be paid for by restricting all Government departments – except for health, schools, defence and international development – to a 1% real increase in spending in 2009/10.

Second Bank Bailout Would Mean The First Failed

2009-01-04T19:03:00.001Z

The news that the government is seriously considering a second bank bailout is an admission that the first bank bailout has failed. At the time it was suggested that the government bought the toxic bad debt which is affecting lending - instead the government spent taxpayers money on recapitalisation.

Gordon Brown may claim that he "saved the world" but the true story of our economy is that he hasn't saved the banks at all. We need to kick start the finance system in this country which is why our idea of a National Loan Guarantee Scheme must be adopted. This would allow banks to start lending to businesses and would be underwritten - rather than giving the banks capital and not getting them to lend we propose that the Government becomes an underwriter, helping to free up capital.

Our full plan includes:

Freeze council tax for two years by reducing wasteful spending on advertising and consultancy in central government.

Abolish Stamp Duty for nine out of ten first-time buyers and raise the Inheritance Tax threshold to £1 million. Both of these changes will be funded by a flat-rate charge on non-domiciles.

Tax cuts for new jobs with a £2.6bn package of tax breaks to get people into work, funded by money that would otherwise go on unemployment benefit.

Cutting the main rate of corporation tax to 25p and the small companies' rate to 20p, paid for by scrapping complex reliefs and allowances .

A £50bn National Loan Guarantee Scheme to underwrite
bank lending to businesses and get credit flowing again.

Giving small and medium-sized businesses a six-month VAT holiday, funded by a 7.5% interest rate on delayed payments.

Cutting National Insurance by 1% for six months for firms with fewer than five employees, paid for from the above changes to the company tax regime.

City Patrol and Police visit

2009-01-04T18:44:00.005Z

Recently I went out with City Patrol alongside Cllr Ben Walker and Cllr Paul Holmes to see for myself anti social behaviour issues in the city. After meeting the team at HQ I then went out with a city patrol officer on the east side of the city to see what they do.

City Patrol is a service funded by the council to combat anti social behaviour. They also act as intelligence gathers for the police by having mobile CCTV installed on top of their vans. They have the power to issued fixed penalty notices for fly tipping and fouling and act as an additional presence on our streets.

The service is backed fully by the Conservative administration and in addition city patrol also act as a response to the 101 anti social behaviour number. A number which the Labour government refused to continue to fund and which we support financially. The 101 service allows for non emergency calls to be dealt with, freeing up police time to focus on more serious incidents.

The week before the visit, I shadowed a police officer for a Friday evening shift. We patroled around the Sholing area but also were on hand to deal with incidents. I cannot go into detail but I was surprised by the level of paperwork and red tape when processing a suspect through custody. This is something the Conservatives vow to get on top on should we form the next government.

What is clear from being out with the police 3 times and city patrol now too is the impact alcolhol has on crime and disorder on a Friday and Saturday night. The Conservative council supports plans to adopt a cumulative impact policy for licenced premises - this means the council can take into account whether an area has enough premises already and whether further premises would lead to an increase in stress and public disorder.

Sholing Valleys Christmas Fete

2008-12-23T17:13:00.000Z

Before Christmas I helped out at the Sholing Valleys Christmas Fete which was held in Woolston. I was delighted to be able to help out and the Mayor Cllr Brian Parnell kindly accepted my invitation to open the fete.

I also went to a great fete at St Mary's Church in Sholing and one at the Salvation Army too. It always impresses me that so many people volunteer to help in their community.

No Limits Surgery This Friday

2008-12-03T21:36:00.002Z

This Friday I will be at No Limits from 3pm to 5pm to hold my successful youth surgery. If you are under the age of 25 and you would like to speak to or just meet a local councillor do come along.

Mince Pies will be provided!

Oasis Mayfield

2008-12-01T20:35:00.001Z

The news that Oasis Mayfield will have a new headteacher and management team, is in my view a positive development. Clearly there have been issues with the management of the two school sites and I welcome the chance for everyone to unite and move on.

Labour's Tax Bombshell

2008-11-25T22:23:00.003Z

The pre budget report showed that Labour are planning a tax bombshell. Indeed an official treasury document was released showing that VAT will go up to 18.5% in 2011.

Labour are going to clobber small businesses - the 2p rise in fuel taxes will see road transport costs rocket. Small firms will have to change prices, upgrade software and pay more accountants fees when the rate changed to 15% and then change it again when the government whacks it to 18.5%.

To pay for this bombshell, national insurance will go up. Labour's tax on jobs will affect everyone earning more than £20k a year. It is a total falsehood to suggest only the rich while pay more for Labour's tax bombshell.

Tax cuts should be for life not just for Christmas. They should be properly funded and not used as a smokescreen for maxing out the nations credit card and exploding our debt.

Sholing Events / On the Door Step

2008-11-23T18:41:00.004Z

Yesterday I visited two fetes in Sholing at the Salvation Army in North East Road and then at St Mary's in St Monica Road.

Our parliamentary candidate Royston Smith, and Cllr Gavin Dick also supported the events.

I was delighted to be able to go and support the fetes. It always impresses me just how many people are involved in helping out at the events.

In between the fetes, I also joined Royston (picture above with Cllr David Fuller and I) for some door step canvassing. It is really important to visit residents all year round.

People say politicians only turn up at election time. I don't believe that should be the case. It is always good to meet residents and hear from them directly what their concerns are.

It seems to me the two big concerns are the economy and crime. These are a mixture of local / national issues. My views are simple, we need lower taxes, a fair council tax and more police.

Council Meeting Thoughts

2008-11-20T21:50:00.002Z

Yesterday there was a meeting of the full council. A number of issues were debated including fluoride in the water. The debate was reasoned and thoughtful with strong speakers on both sides of the argument. Personally I voted against fluoride. All parties had a free vote as it was not a political situation.

My good friends Cllrs David Fuller in Bitterne and Cllr Paul Holmes made their maiden speeches on the issue and both spoke well.

How this council looks after children also came up - a debate was held on "every child matters." Cllr Ben Walker made a great speech about education in Southampton while I made my maiden speech on the topic. I feel passionately that education is part of the overall picture. We need to support families, to create stable homes for children and ensure their safety. We also need to raise aspirations and achievement and give children the skills to get the best from life.

I have to say I appreciated my fellow councillors support. I spoke at the chamber in February regarding speeding traffic in Butts Road. It can be a daunting experience but I am glad I spoke.

I was then moved to speak again due to a Lib Dem motion. This was a strange motion in which the Lib Dems wanted the council to take action to ensure that they could get into flat buildings and deliver their leaflets.

I was shocked that considering the issues the country and the city faces right now that a motion was brought forward on such a non issue.

Station Road Planning

2008-11-20T21:43:00.004Z

There is a planning application coming to the planning and rights of way panel on Tuesday for Station Road.

"Erection of two first-floor extensions over existing rear extensions, and conversion of dwelling into 4 flats (2 x one-bed and 2 x two-bed) with associated parking and bin/cycle storage - Description amended following validation"

More details can be found here.

I will be speaking at the panel and asking the panel to reject the proposal.

Chadwell Avenue Update

2008-11-15T18:27:00.001Z

Two road signs at either end of Chadwell Avenue have now been replaced. The new road signs are in the new Southampton font and are designed to be effective against anti social behaviour and damage. Also, the cost to the council is lower than previous designed, helping to maximize value for money.

North East Road Bus Shelters

2008-11-13T18:28:00.000Z

I am pleased to say that the bus shelters in North East Road have been cleaned and spruced up. There has been a spate of graffiti incidents on bus shelters in the road and following discussions with council officers these were now cleaned.

Action in Cleethopes Road

2008-11-09T19:17:00.003Z

Following feedback from residents and from my own visits I have been made aware that a number of road signs have been damaged in Cleethorpes Road.

The Conservative council is committed to improving the city and we know that small things such as road signs have a big impact on local residents.

Two road signs have already been replaced by the junction with Kathleen Road and now the signs by North East Road have also been replaced.

The new road signs will are in a new Southampton font and are designed to be effective against anti social behaviour and damage.

If you know of any broken road signs get in touch - councillor.n.fitzgerald@southampton.gov.uk

Street Lighting

2008-11-08T17:35:00.003Z

There have been problems with the street lighting by the footpath in Canterbury Avenue/Heyes Drive. Two lights have been out. I am pleased to say that both street lights have now been repaired.

The council is committed to repairing street lights quickly and to improving safety for residents.

In the next few years every streetlight in Southampton will be replaced. This will be funded through a partnership deal with Southampton City Council investing over £1.5 million extra each year for the considerable future. Each new streetlight will have low energy, environmentally friendly lightblubs.

Christmas Fetes and Events

2008-11-08T17:31:00.003Z

It is early to be mentioning the C word but there are a number of events coming up in Sholing.

Saturday 15th November - Sholing Doorstep Fete - 11am
Saturday 22nd November - Christmas Bazzar at St Marys Parish Centre - 2-4pm
Saturday 29th November - Sholing Valleys Christmas Fete at St Marks Institute Victoria Road.

Local MP costs Students 200 million

2008-11-06T18:59:00.000Z

Labour MP John Denham – the Secretary of State for Universities, Innovations and Skills is reducing the amount available in student grants to modest income families.

A budget overspend within John Denham’s department of £200 million means students from modest income families off to university next year will not receive the level of grants the government committed to in 2007.

Modest income families will be hit the hardest losing out by over £500 a year in government grants.

I am surprised that no-one noticed an overspend of £200 million.

No Limits Visit

2008-11-04T19:33:00.003Z

Last week I was lucky enough to be able to go back to No Limits to meet young people in Sholing and hold a question and answer session.

The young people asked questions about how I became a councillor, why I do it and what do I do.

Later, over some pizza, I had a chat with another group about Mayfield Academy, youth services, employment and crime.

Young people have the same concerns as older people, they want jobs, they want good schools and they want to feel safe.

One of the issues to come from the visit as that young people at Mayfield Academy would like their voice to be heard. That is why I am proposing a student council is set up at Mayfield Academy.

My next visits at No Limits will be:

· Friday 5th December 3-5pm

· Wednesday 14th January 09 5.30-7pm

Eager Beavers!

2008-10-30T23:19:00.002Z

I am a Beaver Scout Leader at 1st Southampton Scout Group. Last week I was lucky enough to bring the Beavers to the Civic Centre to visit the Mayor and Mayoress.

Lucky enough for us we were also able to visit the council chamber where we met deputy council leader Royston Smith and we organised a debate with the Beaver Scouts. We had a debate on bin collections and it was great to see the Beavers really engaged.

Out with the Police

2008-10-28T22:03:00.003Z

On Saturday I went out with Cllrs Paul Holmes, Ben Walker and Amy Willacy to visit the city centre police.

We had an evening designed to give a snapshot of the effects of the nighttime economy on the police and city centre.

The CCTV centre was also visited and we were able to go out on patrol to see at first hand how the police deal with people under the influence of alcohol.

I was impressed how the police dealt with situations and the tools at their disposal. Unfortunately they do not have enough cells at the station which means they then transport suspects to Bitterne Station. When Bitterne is full they then transfer people outside the city to other stations. This means that police are being taken off the streets in order to transport suspects. If there were more cells the police could go through the custody process quicker and get back out on the streets.

The new police station being built will increase the number of cells available which would help.

What will also help if there are more police in the first place. This will be aided by our policy to increase the number of special constables.

Overall the visit was very positive and I really enjoyed it, even if it did end at four am!

Planning Application - North East Road

2008-10-28T21:02:00.003Z

Today I spoke at the Planning and Rights of Way panel. An application was heard for flats to be built on 81-83 North East Road.

The application was for 5x1 bed flats, 4x2 bed flats and 1x3 bed flat.

I argued that North East Road suffers from parking problems and that more flats would cause more of an issue. Also the development was proposed for the corner of Old School Close which has just been built and not yet occupied. Cars would park in the access road meaning bin collections might not be able to go down there.

I'm pleased to say that the panel agreed with me and the application was refused.

Out With The Binmen

2008-10-23T16:23:00.002Z

Recently I went out with the city's binmen as part of National Customer Service Week to see what life is like on the front line.

I was really impressed with the high level of service our refuse collectors give.

In Sholing we don't tend to have many problems with bin collections. There was an issue in Heyes Drive that I fixed earlier this year but I am not aware of any other problems. I'm convinced this is due to the great work the collectors too.

And it's hard work - certainly put me through my paces!

Oasis Mayfield

2008-10-23T16:21:00.001Z

Like everybody in Sholing, I have watched developments at Oasis Mayfield Academy with interest. The role of a councillor in these situations is to act as a voice of the community. It wouldn't be right to start playing politics with education.

Both Cllr Gavin Dick and I want to support everyone connected to the school. I am planning to meet with the head later this year once the media spotlight has moved.

Planning Update

2008-10-20T20:11:00.002Z

There is a planning application coming to the Southampton City Council planning panel on 28th October, for 81 - 83 North East Road.

"Redevelopment to create 10 flats within a two-storey building
with accommodation in the roof space (Comprising 5 one-bedroom,
4 two-bedrooms and 1 three-bedroom) with associated
storage & parking. (Outline Application with Landscaping
Reserved)"

Further details can be found here.

More Help For Small Business

2008-10-20T19:52:00.002Z

Today David Cameron has announced more help for Small Businesses hit by the economic crisis. In additional to calling for VAT bills to be deferred for six months, the Conservatives propose cutting the rate of employers' national insurance by 1p for six months.

The cut forms part of a fully-funded package that would also see the small companies’ rate of corporation tax reduced to 20p.

This would help small and medium businesses hit at the moment and help cut the cost of employing people, protecting against job cuts.

New Poll

2008-10-20T19:50:00.000Z

The latest Opinion Polls show that the Conservatives have a 12 point lead.

Mending The Broken Economy

2008-10-19T20:04:00.002Z

David Cameron has made an important speech to the City of London regarding our plan to mend the economy. Today our latest announcement is that we are calling for the government to allow small businesses to defer paying their VAT bills for six months.

As the son of two small businessmen, I know how hard small businessmen work and that they are wealth creators for our society.

Alfriston Gardens Update

2008-10-19T20:00:00.002Z

Following feedback from residents and from my own visits I have been made aware that there has been a litter problem in Alfriston Gardens, sometimes caused by people purchasing items from the local shops.

There has been a concern that the council’s street cleaning team have not been visiting the road regularly.

I have agreed the following action points with officers:

1. The area around the shops will be cleaned weekly by the street sweeping team.

2. Alfriston Gardens will be cleaned monthly. In addition to this the street team will carry out an inspection and clear any obvious littering at the time of their weekly visit to the shops.

3. A new bin will be installed in Alfristion Gardens so that those who walk from the shop and have rubbish will be able to dispose of it.

I have also reported that the sign on the corner with Silver Birch by the shops has disappeared and that the road sign opposite the shops needs replacing.

I’m pleased to say that these will both be replaced within the next three months and that the new road signs will be in the new Southampton font and are designed to be effective against anti social behaviour and damage.

In My View - Skills

2008-10-19T19:57:00.002Z

The below is an In My View I had published in Friday's Daily Echo,

With the economic crisis getting worse, it would be easy to focus on the short term solutions to the problem. It would appear that this Government doesn’t have a long term plan to equip our country better in the future.

One area we need to improve on is our skills base and raise standards in our education system.

Education can be a silver bullet; it raises aspirations of children and young people. It can equip them with the skills needed to survive in today’s increasingly unsure world. Education can boost social mobility and give everyone a chance to succeed.

Unfortunately, the government seems too wrapped up in politicising education. Lord Adonis who was a key Blairite schools reformer has been moved by the Prime Minister during the reshuffle. His key reform was academies. Academies are schools which are set free from government control.

I attended the opening of the new Academy in Sholing, Oasis Academy Mayfield. The Academy will specialise in Global Communications, appropriate I feel in the modern world.

It would appear however that due to ideological reasons, this government is moving away from Academies.

The Conservatives are committed to not just Academies, but a long term programme to end the educational gap between the fortunate and those who live in areas of deprivation.

We would build hundreds of good new schools within the state system. This is based on the successful Swedish model which has dramatically raised standards. This frees up communities, business, charities, parents and others to set up new schools.

We would encourage smaller and more varied schools so that parents and pupils find the school which suits them.

Conservatives would ensure teaching by ability and would reform the testing system which places undue stress on pupils, parents and teachers. Discipline has to improve.

However, there will be those who will need a second chance for various reasons so we would offer an extra 100,000 apprentice places.

For those who get stuck on welfare, we need to make benefit a short term plug, not a long term solution. We need to expand work based training and community involvement to re-equip those stuck on a life time of unemployment.

These positive, sensible solutions will help our country in the long term. Long term plans are needed if we are going to end our broken society and equip us better during an economic downturn.

Cost of Living Increases

2008-10-14T22:00:00.005Z

The cost of living is still increasing with inflation at 5.2%.

The cost of living is now it's highest since 1997. Experts say that inflation will now fall to a faltering economy - either way this is not good news.

Our economy is weakening which means less goods and services will be paid for.

Unfortunately the bank bailout does not stop consumer confidence being hit.

It is vital that politicians take account of this when it comes to taxation, for example we have again said today that we want the lowest council tax rise possible.

Pinegrove Road Planning

2008-10-14T21:56:00.002Z

I am pleased to say that the application for 4 x 1 bedroom flats in Pinegrove Road which was rejected by our planning panel has now been refused on appeal by the planning inspector.

The inspector felt that the application would have an effect on the character and appearance of the local area.

I am pleased the inspector has backed our views.

Chessel Bay Tidy Up

2008-10-11T19:23:00.004Z

Today I helped clean up Chessel Bay with Cllrs Royston Smith, Ivan White and Matthew Jones. Chessel Bay is a local nature reserve on the river Itchen. It is a fantastic place.

Change is the Winner!

2008-10-07T22:16:00.002Z

A new Times Poll out shows the Conservatives up 2% and now on 45%.

The really interesting part is that we have a 7 point lead on the economy, but a huge 65% of people now say it is time for a change.

Only the Conservatives will deliver real change for our Economy, NHS and Schools and our broken society.

Download our policies

2008-10-07T21:28:00.003Z

Advancing Opportunity
Nuturing Responsibility
Protecting Security

Sholing Valley's Litter Pick

2008-10-05T13:52:00.002Z

Last Sunday I was lucky enough to be able to go along and help Sholing Valleys clean up round by Miller's Pond and Botany Bay.

Sholing Valleys do incredible work in maintaining the pond and the meadow.

Cllr Royston Smith and Cllr Matthew Jones also came with me and I am grateful for their help.

New Academy Opening

2008-10-04T14:16:00.006Z

I was delighted to be invited to the opening of our new Academy, Oasis Academy Mayfield on Thursday.

Oasis are an educational charity and the Academy will specialise in Global Communications. The ethos is placed on the student wanting to, rather than having to learn.

I was lucky enough to sit in on a class of year 7's and was impressed with the lesson. Also tlaking to young people who attend the school, it is clear that an emphasis is placed on them wearing a uniform and taking pride in their appearance and behaviour.

At Conference, we annouced that hundreds of good comprehensives would be freed from bureaucratic control and allowed to become autonomous, non-selective Academies.

Our plans could help create hundreds of new Academies with the freedom to innovate and with control over budgets, curriculum and discipline.

The new academies would also be asked to help under-performing schools, with the innovations pioneered in the best schools being deployed to drive up standards in the poorest.

Planning Update

2008-10-04T10:46:00.002Z

Two applications have been refused recently:

376 Portsmouth Road - extension

37 Mowbray Road - new two storey house

The application for 4 flats in Station Road has been deferred to the next planning meeting.

Also, an application for 1 Banbury Avenue was refused. The application then went to the planning inspector in appeal. The planning inspector has dismissed the appeal and agrees that the application for “conversion of house to 2 no 2 bed flats + 2 new flats - attached cycle store" would affect the character and appearance of the surrounding area and impact on highway safety in Alfriston Gardens.

High Speed Rail

2008-10-03T11:20:00.002Z

The Conservatives at conference announced ambitious plans to build a new high speed train line from London to Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds. You would be able to get from London to Birmingham in 40 minutes.

The benefits are:

Helping businesses and generating huge economic benefits, potentially to the value of £60 billion
Healing long-standing divisions in our economy by shrinking the distance between north and south
Relieving over-crowding on existing lines
Helping to protect future generations from climate change

We would not go ahead with a third runway at Heathrow and with the high speed rail would be able to free up thousands of slots at Heathrow.

Two Year Council Tax Freeze

2008-10-02T23:05:00.004Z

The Conservative Shadow Chancellor, George Osborne announced a two-year freeze in council tax in order to help families cope with the rising cost of living.

This measure will save a typical Band D household over £200, and millions of families will benefit.

The Shadow Chancellor said “Instead of council tax bills that rise year after year under Labour, millions of families will get help at the time they need it most. Conservatives will not leave people to struggle with the credit crunch alone.”

Councils have to play their part. Any council which keeps its council tax to no more than 2.5% increases will have extra money from the government to reduce council tax to zero.

We are going to pay for this by cutting spending on expensive private sector consultants and advertising by £500 million in the first full year of government, and by £1 billion in all subsequent years.

As a councillor, I know that council tax is a big issue and we need to have rises below inflation. In Southampton we have the additional problem that the government doesn't give us enough money per year.

Cameron's Speech

2008-10-02T22:43:00.005Z

David Cameron's speech can be accessed above. The speech was excellent.

David Cameron outlined our plan for change. You can download the plan here

A Conservative Government will rebuild our battered economy, renew our bureaucratised NHS and repair our broken society.

David Cameron stressed that in these difficult times, Britain needs leadership, character and judgement:

“The leadership to unite your party and build a strong team. The character to stick to your guns and not bottle it when times get tough. The judgment to understand the mistakes that have been made and to offer the country change.”

Over the next few days I will post a policy a day.

Police Meeting

2008-09-24T20:21:00.002Z

On Monday I was invited to attend an open meeting with the local Safer Neighbourhoods Policing Team. Cllr Royston Smith came along to find out more about the issues we have in Sholing.

It was not surprising to hear about anti social behaviour issues, particularly relating to motorbikes and mini motors.

The police will work with the council where possible to come up with solutions.

It was a pleasure seeing a number of committed local residents at the meeting.

Police Meeting - Tomorrow

2008-09-21T15:09:00.002Z

There is an open meeting tomorrow at St Andrews Methodist Church Hall at 7 for 7:30 with the local police.

At the last Beat Surgery nuisance in Bandbury Avenue and Imber Way was mentioned. Motorists’ speeding along Butts Rd during the evenings was also talked about.

Sholing Village Fete & Weston Open Day

2008-09-21T14:49:00.005Z

Royston Smith, our Parliamentary Candidate with The Mayor Cllr Brian Parnell

Yesterday I went to visit the Western Shore Open Day. Sholing Valleys were there with an excellent stall as usual. It was a new event which hopefully will grow and grow.

Today, our Mayor, Cllr Brian Parnell opened the Sholing Village Fete. The Fete is always an excellent event. Gavin, Royston and I were in attendance to see all the stalls and the Punch and Judy show.

It was really good to see so many people at the Fete. The Sholing Environmental group put a lot of effort into maintaining Sholing Doorstep Green and must have worked hours setting the Fete up.

Their Christmas Fete is on 15th November at St. Mary's Church in St Monica Road and on Sunday 5th October there will be a "Pet Service" at the green were children (and adults) can bring their pets along to a special church service.

No Limits Open Day

2008-09-20T14:45:00.002Z

On Friday Royston and I went to the No Limits Open Day. No Limits is a centre in Portsmouth Road providing counsellors, advice and services to young people under the age of 25.

The staff there were clearly motivated and passionate about helping our young people build sustainable lives and away from drugs, drinks and poverty.

Council youth workers have recently moved into No Limits, having been relocated from The Grove. I'm sure the arrangement will help further in combating the root causes of anti social behaviour.

The photo taken was of me saying a few words. One of the staff is moving to Canada which is certainly a different adventure and I wish her a lot of luck.

Police Update

2008-09-18T20:01:00.000Z

The police will be operating Open Meetings & Beat Surgeries at the following:

Open Meetings:

Montague shops - Friday 26 September - 1700-1800
Alfriston shops -Thursday 9th October - 1700-1800

Beat surgeries:

23/09/08 - Butts Road Community Centre 6pm - 8pm
16/10/08 - Orpen Road Community Centre. Time TBA
18/11/08 - Butts Road Community Centre 6pm - 8pm
11/12/08 - Orpen Road Community Centre. Time TBA

Middle Road Area - Crossings Installed

2008-09-14T21:58:00.005Z

I'm delighted to say that the three crossings in the Middle Road Area are now installed. I saw them working on Friday.

There are two crossings at the top by Deacon Road, and a crossing by South East Road. Coupled with the junction re engineering and twenty is plenty sings round by the schools, we should start to see a reduction in traffic speeds.

This work couldn't have happened without my colleague Gavin Dick. As soon as I was elected, we have both chased and pushed for the crossings and I'm pleased they were in now in September rather than half way through the school year.

Community Events

2008-09-10T19:58:00.002Z

It is important to me to support events in Southampton. There is a community fun day at Weston Shore on Saturday 20th Septemner from 10 - 3pm.

Recently I went to the Olympic Handover in Southampton.

Planning Update

2008-09-10T19:50:00.002Z

I have objected to the following applications:

376 Portsmouth Road - extension
62 - 64 Station Road - Application for flats (see below post)
37 Mowbray Road - new two storey house
81 - 83 North East Road - Application for flats (see below post)

If you have any queries regarding these applications or other planning matters please email me - councillor.n.fitzgerald@southampton.gov.uk

Helping You with Planning Applications

2008-09-04T21:56:00.003Z

One of the roles of a local councillor is to assist local residents with planning queries, objections and applications.

There are a number of applications in Sholing at the moment inclduing an application in North East Road on the corner of a new development and another in Station Road.

The development in North East is at 81 - 83 and would see the redevlopment of the site to create 10 flats within a two storey building.

The development at 62 - 62 Station Road would see the properties converted into 4 flats (2x1 bed, 2x2 bed).

If you have a view on either application or any other planning issue please do get in touch.

Going For Gold

2008-09-03T20:04:00.002Z

Southampton City Council is going into partnership with Solent University.

From September, coaching staff and students studying for sports degrees will teach everything from athletics to rugby to pupils at a number of schools across the city. I'm confident this will help students gain leadership skills, keep fit and combat boredom which leads to anti social behaviour.

We have invested £50,000 in the first year of the scheme, with long term plans to roll out student coaching to schools across the city from September 2009.

Each school will determine what sports will be coached but it will involve football, some form of Rugby, cricket, tennis and basketball.

MP apologises after writing to dead schoolgirl for second time

2008-09-01T20:11:00.000Z

The Telegraph report that our local Mp John Denham wrote to a dead schoolgirl despite having apologised to her mother for making the same mistake eight years earlier.

The griveing girl's mother has revealed that she wrote to our MP seeking help before her daughters death and heard nothing back and then the deceased was sent a questionnaire about the health service.

Details can be found here.

Flying The Olympic Flag

2008-08-18T20:30:00.006Z

I'm sure I cannot be the only one impressed by the level of skill, effort and determination of our Olympic Team. I do hope we cling onto 3rd place in the medal table, it is well deserved.

When the Olympics draw to a close on 24th August, attention will move to London 2012.

Southampton will be staging an event on 24th August to celebrate this and there will be a great event held at the civic centre.

Further details can be found here

Woolston Riverside

2008-08-18T20:24:00.002Z

Woolston Riverside was approved today at the meeting of Southampton City Council's Planning Panel.

The scheme will see a massive boost of investment into the area with Palmer Johnston, the US ship builder moving in creating jobs for our local workforce.

The scheme will also have 1,600 homes, offices, supermarket, health centre,a hotel, library, and 3 waterfront apartment towers.

Of there is the concern of parking and transport links. The development will have 200extra parking spaces now.

As a ward councillor in a neighbouring ward it would be improper of me to comment on the development. If anyone within Sholing is concerned or has a query they are welcome to contact me.

Latest Poll - Twice as Many Voters prefer Cameron to Brown

2008-08-18T20:23:00.004Z

The latest poll for The Guardian shows that twice as many voters prefer David Cameron to Gordon Brown to be our PM. The Conservatives also have a decent lead in the poll.

Traffic Calming Update

2008-08-07T20:19:00.004Z

Speeding Traffic is a big issue in Sholing and Cllr Gavin Dick and I are determined to have real action to combat this issue.

Middle Road area has benefited from junctions being re engineered, the next step is to install the crossings needed. I am chasing this up with officers.

Also, Butts Road is due to have a speed indicator device installed. However there has been a problem with the power supply. The council will now be looking at using a solar panel device instead.

Twenty is Plenty Signs are now installed by our local schools. This signs will help drivers slow down their speeds.

Heathfield Junior School
Valentine Infant School
St. Monica Junior
St. Monica Infant
Sholing Junior School
Sholing Infant School
Sholing Technology College

Our Parliamentary Candidate Royston Smith has been keeping a close eye on all of this.

Chapel Crescent Update

2008-08-04T19:00:00.000Z

There has been various issues with the cutway behind the Co Op.

The latest update is that the council is now taking legal advice to see if a gating order can be made so that gates can be installed to stop youths using the cutway for anti social behaviour.

A survey has been sent out to residents so if you had received a copy I would urge you to complete it so that we can know your view.

Latest Polls

2008-07-29T21:25:00.002Z

An Olympic Cock Up

2008-07-29T21:15:00.003Z

Southampton was due to have an Olympic screen. The screen was meant to go in Above Bar and then move to the Guildhall. It would show the Olympic games and possible over events.

The screen was in conjunction with the BBC and a private company. The cost to the council was small, in fact all we needed to do was cover the cost of the insurance.

The screen would have given people a reason to stay in the city centre and bringing money into our city economy.

A concert will be beamed live from London to each of the Live Sites, with The Feeling, Il Divo, Katherine Jenkins, Russell Watson and McFly all set to perform. The opening and closing ceremony were also to be screened.

When the Conservatives were unceremoniously removed by the Lib/Lab Pact they promptly cancelled the screen.

So now the screen has gone to Portsmouth. One wonders exactly what else the coalition managed to get up to in two months?

Cabinet Meeting Highlights

2008-07-28T21:04:00.000Z

Monday's council cabient meeting saw a number of important decisions made including the annoucement that the city were to go into an exclusive partnership with Kilmartin to look at developing the waterfront.

Scottish developer Kilmartin has been asked to talk to local history societies and trade group Business Southampton before drawing up plans for the site.

As someone who works in the cruise industry I feel it is vital that we attract people to our city and that if they are using it as a port that we encourage them to stay beforehand to sample the attractions that we can offer.

New Ocean Village Hotel

2008-07-25T21:10:00.000Z

A new hotel is to be built in Ocean Village.

The hotel will cost 50 million and will be 13 stories with 224 beds.

The hotel will be run by the Millennium & Copthorne Hotel chain and will ahve an events piazza. The piazza will feature five large steel sculptures depicting the coastlines of global ports with links to Southampton.

Southampton Mela

2008-07-23T21:03:00.000Z

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to visit the Southampton Mela which was run by Art Asia with support from Southampton City Council.

What a fantastic event it was. You could tell that the staff there really did care and put a lot of effort into the event.

Happy Birthday Sholing Valleys

2008-07-20T15:04:00.002Z

The Sholing Valleys Study Centre is 20 years old.

Yesterday saw their annual fete which was excellent as usual. Cllr Gavin Dick and I attended the opening and were impressed with the hard work and efforts of everyone involved.

Sholing Valleys was set up to defend the Miller's Pond area from the then Labour councils plans to build housing and a shopping mall on the area. It goes without saying that the Conservatives want to support charity organisations such as Sholing Valleys and are totally against over development.

I'd like to thank everyone involved at Sholing valleys for the event and the work they do for the community.

Our local beat officers from the police were also there which is good to see.

Council Meeting Highlights

2008-07-20T14:55:00.003Z

Wednesday's council meeting saw the new Conservative administration make a commitment to boosting sports in our city. We have voted to give BTC a long term lease at Stoneham to allow for the sports club to upgrade their facilities. This is in face of stiff opposition from the Lib Dems who want to concrete over the open space.

We also backed exciting plans to dramatically increase the provision of after school sport in our city. We will pt sports coaches from Southampton Solent University into our schools to arrange for a myriad of sport options for our children. We need to get our children active.

Also, we announced planned to manage our road network better. We are doubling investment in our road network and have out more money aside for potholes. But we need to do much more and so are looking at a long term partnership in order for us to find savings to be reinvested into the roads network. The roads are in a dreadful state and the backlog is at £500 million. This is a start.

As per usual the coalation of Labour and Lib Dems were negative and didn't bring forward real policies that could help our city, instead there was a lot of carping.

Grove Park Awards Evening

2008-07-18T15:01:00.000Z

On Thursday Cllr Gavin Dick and I attend the awards evening at Grove Park. This celebrated the success of students over the last academic year. It has been a challenging time for Grove Park with the closure and the new academy which replaces Grove Park and Woolston in September.

The staff, pupils and parents at Grove Park are extremely dedicated. The evening saw another excellent performance from the Grove Park Steel Band and it was great to see a range of awards celebrating academic and sporting achievement.

School Closures Due To Industrial Action

2008-07-15T22:45:00.001Z

Due to the Industrial Action tomorrow, the following schools in Sholing will be closed:

Heathfield Junior School: Closed Wednesday and Thursday.

St Monica Infant School: Closed Wednesday and Thursday.

VED Increase - Hitting Families When They Need Help

2008-07-15T21:59:00.004Z

I personally do not drive but I fully understand the need for families, workers, pensioners, in fact everyone to own their own car if they wish to do so. Everyone should also contribute to help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and oil.

The government seem though to think it is perfectly acceptable to penalise the poorest in society with their half baked Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) plans.

9.4 million Drivers will face extra taxes because they have older cars. These people didn't know at the time of purchasing the car that the government was going to clobber them a few years down the line and then retrospectively charge them the taxes.

The tax hits ordinary family cars bought up to seven years ago. 400,000 of these drivers are families who earn less than 15k a year. The additional tax on a Hummer is £55, while the extra tax on a Ford Mondeo is up to £220.

Even the Treasury admits that it will have a negligible impact on vehicle emissions. None of the money raised will be used to reduce tax elsewhere.

Make no mistake, this is not a green tax, it is a stealth tax created without thought to help shore up the gaping holes in public finances, shot to pieces further by the botched 10p tax assistance.

If you want to change people's behaviour then you don't do that by retro applying a tax.

Green taxes should then be offset against family taxes so that hard working families’ tax burdens are reduced. Green taxes should reduce emissions, and revenues a Conservative Government takes from new green taxes will go into an independently audited Family Fund.

Fuel is also increasing; this is why we need a Fair Fuel Stabiliser. This would provide stability not just to the public finances, but also in terms of long-term environmental signals.

When oil prices rise, the government receives a windfall increase in tax revenues, and when oil prices fall, the government suffers an unexpected shortfall in revenues for the same reason.

The Stern Review made clear that one of the key advantages of environmental taxes is that they "can be kept stable, and thus do not risk fluctuations in the marginal costs that could increase the total costs of mitigation."

Under a Fair Fuel Stabiliser, when fuel prices go up, fuel duty would fall. And when fuel prices go down, fuel duty would rise.

This would strengthen environmental signals when oil prices fall, and help reduce volatility in the price of fuel faced by consumers.

By creating a more stable price for carbon, in line with Stern's recommendations, this approach will help encourage a long term shift towards lower emission vehicles and alternative methods of transport that do less damage to the environment.

Instead the government does nothing and decides to clobber people again. Just whacking up tax will not help the environment. It won’t help the economy either.

Economic Recovery

2008-07-15T21:47:00.005Z

Rising Food and Fuel costs have pushed up inflation again. It has doubled under Gordon Brown.

The Conservatives have announced an economic recovery plan. This would see:

*A Fair Fuel Stabiliser which means when oil prices go up, the tax falls so that the over price remains the same - this would save 5p a litre at the moment
*Reform of welfare support
*Additional help if you are made unemployed - including an immediate assessment of your skills and tailored support to get you back into a job
*Introducing bankruptcy protection for companies
* Cutting Stamp Duty so 9 out of 10 first time buyers don't pay stamp duty - this will help 1st time buyers hit by rising costs
* Keeping council tax low - Conservative councils have lower council taxes
*Increased protection to savers - protecting the first £50,000 of savings

Industrial Action

2008-07-15T21:30:00.003Z

There is likely to be Industrial action tomorrow and Thursday which may affect waste collections, schools, care services and other services.

The council website will be updated as and when more is available.

The strike is a national dispute between the Local Government Employers and the trade unions Unison and Unite over the proposed public sector pay awards - this is subject to government, not council policy.

More information can be found here.

Cameron Direct

2008-07-14T21:45:00.000Z

Visiting Sholing Infant School & Grove Park

2008-07-11T12:15:00.004Z

Today I visited Sholing Infant School. I had an excellent tour of the school alongside Cllr Royston Smith. We were shown round by three of the school councillors. These young children did themselves proud and I was very impressed with the behaviour of all the pupils.

Schools need supporting. Sholing Infants has a good reputation and I look forward to supporting the school in anyway that I can.<
Next Thursday there is an evening at Grove Park to celebrate the end of term. As most people know the school will be closing as will Woolston School. Instead a new academy, Oasis Academy Mayfield will open in September.

After September the academy will be on both sites.Longer term there will be refurbishment/rebuilding work on the Grove Park site and the Woolston site will no longer be used.

The Academies are Labour government policy. Conservative national policy if we were to be elected is to go further and allow fully independent "free schools" within the state sector to drive up standards.

Old Labour try and make political points over education but the fact remains that all schools need supporting in Southampton and we have got to drive up standards to give our children the support and the future they deserve.