News
Truckers ‘make noise and mess’
LORRIES parking near residential streets have been causing a night- mare for residents who complain of parking problems, traffic con- gestion, noise and litter. People living in houses in Holt-
wood Avenue and surrounding roads in Aylesford say that about 20 HGVs park bumper-to-bumper overnight and throughout week- ends in Lake Road and Wealden Way, on the Quarry Wood indus- trial estate. Residents complain of unaccept-
able noise from the truck’s refriger- ation units, and that drivers are sleeping in their cabs and leaving rubbish in nearby woodland close to housing and food outlets. “We hesitate even to suggest
what toilet arrangements are made,” said one neighbour. They added: “We were appalled by the litter and rubbish evident around the lake and industrial units, which we put down to HGV overnight parking in and around the indus- trial estate. “We witnessed one foreign HGV driver returning to his cab with
breakfast after an overnight stay, leaving the wrappings by the fence around the lake.” Neighbours fear the situation can
only get worse if a proposal to ex- pand industrial buildings in Lake Road is approved by Tonbridge and Malling Council. The plan includes extensions to
three blocks at units 1 to 18, a one- way system within the site, excava- tion at the foot of an embankment and construction of a retaining wall, more parking and security fencing. Aylesford Parish Council regis-
tered a strong objection to the scheme, saying: “The existing traf- fic infrastructure cannot cope with any further development. Exten- sion of buildings will encroach on nearby residential properties with noise implications.” Kent Police said it was working
with Highways England and Kent County Council to address the issue. Councillors were due to de- cide on the application after Downs Mailwent to press.
downsmail.co.uk Historic move for town
A SERIES of historical interpretation boards has been erected in the county town to help connect locals and visitors alike with Maidstone’s past. The panels, developed by Maidstone Council and creative signage specialist FitzpatrickWoolmer, were unveiled by the mayor, Cllr Daniel Moriarty, at the start of English TourismWeek. Also present were representatives of Maiden Distillery, based in The
Old Brewery, who gave a short presentation and tasting showcasing the 200-year-old gin distilling heritage of the area. The panels
provide a glimpse into Maidstone’s compelling history, with colourful representations of events offering insight into times past. Cllr Moriarty
said: “Whether it’s 14th-century Peasants’ Revolt led byWat Tyler, the legacy of gin distillation that thrives to this day, or even the ancient trade routes established with Rome during the conquests of Julius Caesar, the evolution of Maidstone and its residents ensures that the culture of the region is as rich and fascinating as any other. “To be able to unveil these magnificent panels is a great honour, and I
hope that residents and visitors take the opportunity to learn more about the compelling cast of characters that has defined not only Maidstone, but history itself.” The council hopes the panels, which recount some of the key moments in local history, will encourage people to take a closer look at the cultural significance of the region.
01622 765332
www.kipmcgrath.com &
www.maidstone-tuition.com
6 King's Row Armstrong Rd., Maidstone ME15 6AQ
20 Maidstone Town April 2016
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