The Caterham & District Independent recently met with Tandridge District Council (TDC) to discuss their Strategic Plan, which runs until 2024. Present were Independent councillor Catherine Sayer, Liberal Democrat councillor Christopher Botten and Conservative councillor Tony Elias.
With house prices in Surrey already prohibitively expensive for many, affordable housing is high on the council’s agenda. The Bronze Oak housing development in Caterham Valley, the contract for which was recently awarded to Claritas Group Ltd, will provide 26 flats for families and older people who cannot afford to buy or rent on the open market.
The meeting discussed what is being done to stimulate the local economy, including installing parking meters along Croydon Road. This is not to make money but to prevent people who are not using the shops, leaving their cars there for long periods. Meters will make it easier for shoppers to park and visit local businesses, increasing footfall and revenue.
The Church Walk redevelopment application is still being considered. The council is supporting BID’s proposals that the plan for Church Walk must ensure growth of the hospitality and retail industries in Caterham.
As chairman of The Miller Centre, which will reopen on 1 November, Cllr Elias stressed the impact of the pandemic on local theatres. He hopes promotion of their other facilities will increase footfall.
The council aims to be carbon neutral by 2030 and their action plan considers street charging points for electric cars. It is also supporting local artist Priyanka Rana-Iandoli’s ‘Children need Future’ art installation project, which raises awareness of plastic waste and will be exhibited in the district’s public spaces.
There was a discussion about the importance of both protecting open spaces and developing suitable areas for sporting activities. The council donated £500,000 to Oxted’s Master Park pavilion project, which will provide much needed facilities for all users.
For further information about the Strategic Plan, visit the TDC website: tandridge.gov.uk.
