Disclaimer:
Any advertisements listed below relate solely to registered charitable organisations. They are shared for public awareness and do not imply any endorsement or affiliation. Councillor Steve Ridley does not have any personal or professional connection to these charities and receives no benefit from their inclusion. This diary also details various meetings that Cllr Ridley attends, but also detailing public events set up to help you find them. He makes all reasonable efforts to make sure that all information provided in this diary is accurate and up to date, but he does not accept any responsibility or liability for any errors in information.
16th February 2026
2026 Actions
Cabinet Advisory Panel “B” – Dartford Borough Council – Attending
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14th February 2026
Kent Police Surgery – Bexley Park Sports and Social Club 14:00 hrs – Pc Jai Shoker hosting – Cllr Steve Ridley Attending – everyone welcome
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06th to 11th February 2026
Continuing and further background work, research and enquiries re Common Lane and surrounding area schools issues including bus company enquiries – Actioned
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04th February 2026
Crime & Disorder (Overview & Scrutiny) Committee meeting – Updates on Kent and Medway Crime Panel – Kent Policing Model Update – Question on Policy regarding approach to addressing hate crime.
Questions from Cllr Ridley on Non-Crime Hate Incidents, and why Police are still taking reports and dealing – Statistics on crime by ward more available – Restoring public trust in the Police – Attended
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03rd February 2026
Ward Surgery Meeting
Surgery for local residents with Cllrs. Ridley & Cecil responding to questions to any issues that you may have – Location – Joydens Wood Community Centre, 9 Birchwood Road, Dartford, DA2 7NE – Everyone welcome, Time – 6pm to 8pm – Attended
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02nd February 2026
KCC / DBC Reform Councillor “Catch Up Meeting” discussions on matters covered by both Councils / members – Attended
Also planning permission enquiry regarding change of use from HMO to Childcare Centre – directed to appropriate individuals for follow up – Actioned
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31st January 2026
Abandoned Vehicle Enquiry – contact enquiries with DBC – directed to appropriate individuals for follow up – Actioned
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27th January 2026
Overview & Scrutiny Committee Meeting – Attended
Topics covered by committee – homelessness in town causes, covering rough sleeping and how to eradicate – Update on Orchard Theatre – Local Government Reorganisation update
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21st January 2026
21st January 2026
Site Meeting Galley Hill
Borough Councillor Steve Ridley attended and supported fellow Reform KCC Councillors along with the leader of the Kent County Council – Linden Kemkaran, who also visited the site today to see the issues related to the closure of the Galley Hill road (A226) a Northern section of the Swanscombe quarry due to serious subsidance / collapse in April 2023. KCC Cllr Tom Mallon covers this area in his division, and has been working hard bring all stakeholders together to get this matter resolved so that the road can be reopened again as soon as possible. A number of proposals are on the table to initiate resolution, one possible solution being a bridge.
Reform UK Branch meeting – Attended
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13th January 2026
Meeting with DBC Planning Officer and contractor re Bus Shelter reinstallation, along with Bus Shelter contractor – (Bower) – Bexley Park – Attended – Along with Cllr Alan Cecil -KCC we managed to achieve a positive result and a new shelter is now to be installed at the relevant location during 2026
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12th January 2026
Meeting with Kent Police and DBC Civil Enforcement representatives concerning Road Safety, dangerous driving, breaches of civil enforcment regulations and ASB in Leyton Cross – Attending
Distribution of incident reporting leaflets in surrounding area – Attended
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11th January 2026
Meeting of Joydens Wood Neighbourhood Watch and Kent Police – with proposals to extend watch area to Maypole and Leyton Cross ward – Attending
Reform UK Committee meeting – Attended
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07th january 2026
Wilmington Parish Council Meeting – Councillor Report provided – Attended
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05th January 2026
Further enquiries with DBC regarding planning permission Sports Ground Leyton Cross – Actioned
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2025 Actions
30th december 2025
Complaint taken up with DBC regarding waste /rubbish /litter blowing out of rear of DBC liveried waste contactor vehicle – Actioned
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29th DECEMBER 2025
Leaflet delivery throughout ward – Actioned / Completed
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28th december 2025
Leaflet delivery throughout ward – Actioned
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24th December 2025
Enquiry /concern over planning application by resident in relation to local sports ground -Leyton Cross – Actioned
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22nd december 2025
Achieved agreement with DBC for Bus Shelter replacement – Old Bexley
Lane – Completed
Further issues regarding FPN’s for Section 132 Highways Act 1980 not yet revoked notification – further discussion with DBC – confirmation from Enforcement Manager that FPN’s will be revoked – Actioned – Completed
Letter to KCC Highways regarding permission to locate signage on Common Lane – Awaiting response – Actioned
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19th december 2025
Enquiry request for reinstallation of incorrectly removed bus shelter – Old Bexley Lane – Actioned
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18th december 2025
Enquiry from KCC Councillor – assistance with legislation regarding abandoned vehicle – Walnut Tree Avenue – Provided /Actioned
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16th december 2025
Funeral of a much loved and popular Reform branch Secretary / Volunteer – Jan – Attended
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14th December 2025
Reform UK Branch Gathering – Attended
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09th december 2025
Wilmington Parish Council – Reporting to Council actions recently undertaken by Cllr Ridley – Attended
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08th December 2025
General Assembley of Council meeting – Attended
| Declarations of Interest |
| Minutes |
| Mayor’s Announcements |
| Leader’s Announcements |
| Questions from Political Group Leaders |
| Motions |
| Urgent Items |
| Council in Committee |
| References from other Committees (if any) |
| Small Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Article 4 Direction |
| Setting the Council Tax Base for the Borough for 2026/27 |
| Local Scheme of Support for Council Tax 2026/27 |
| Crime & Disorder (Overview & Scrutiny) Committee Annual Report 2024/25 |
| Review of Political Proportionality |
| Reconvening of the General Assembly of the Council |
| Reserved Minutes |
| Exempt Appendix G – Small Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Article 4 Direction – br/>Exempt Category SO46(1)(b) and Annex 1 para. 1(c) |
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05th December 2025
Receipt of further complaint regarding the issue of Fixed Penalty Notice to another school for breach of Section 132 Highways Act – contact being made with DBC to achieve revocation – Now voided ___________________________________________________________
03rd december 2025
Final follow up of complaint listed below, and attendance to Borough Council for update, and closure of case – Undertaken
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02nd december 2025
Action on previous complaints over issue of Fixed Penalty Notices for breach of Section 132 Highways Act against local school and social club – Advocated and successfully reversed penalty and tickets voided due to incorrect service of process
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01st December 2025
Cabinet Advisory Panel “B” meeting – Attended
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28th November 2025
Continued preparation for Motions /Questions for fothcoming December General Assembly of Council –Actioned
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27th November 2025
Preparation of notes for DBC Cabinet Advisory Panel B meeting – Actioned
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26th november 2025
Following up compaint from schools regarding FPN issued for breach of Section 132 Highways Act – follow up investigation appeal to be undertaken – Actioned
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24th november 2025
Enquiries for bus companies as detailed below for possible Joint Transport Board meeting
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20th november 2025
Meeting arrangement with DBC Enforcement and Kent Police concerning School Road Safety issues as detailed below
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19th November 2025
Site meeting on ward with KCC Highways Department, School Travel planners, Cllr Cecil KCC regarding School Road Safety / Dangerous Driving / Parking issues – Common Lane, Wilmington Court Road, Tredegar Road – Issues in Common Lane for Wilmington Court Care Home, lighting & footway – Issues related to parking in Pinewood Place, Bexley Park – Issues related to footway between Bexley Park and Leyton Cross Road. – Attended
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18th november 2025
Complaint re street sweeping issues – Bexley Park – Follow up action with DBC – Actioned
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17th November 2025
General Assembly of Council – covering Local Government Reorganisation options for submission to Central Government as required by them by 28th November – Voted on options – Attended
A full report of the responses can be found on the Kent Leaders website – https://kentcouncilleaders.org.uk/councils-reveal-draft-business-cases-for-new-councils/
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13th November 2025
Darenth Valley Hospital Traffic Congestion Complaint Issues – Follow up enquiries with KCC – Actioned
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08th november 2025
Attendance at Council Remembrance Day Service for wreath laying – Attended
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06th November 2025
Follow up action in relation to “abandoned” burger van – Actioned
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05th November 2025
Follow up action on previous constituent enquiries – Actioned
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27th October 2025
Abandoned Van inquiry Wilmington – inquiry regarding abandoned burger van, in derelict state – removal request – Actioned
Preparation for Remembrance Day – Undertaken
Highways meeting request for a number of highway related inquiries – Actioned
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26th October 2025
Bexley Park Police Surgery (Sunday 26th October 2025) – being held at 12:00 noon.
Dear Residents of Bexley Park & Leyton Cross
PC Jai Shoker will be holding a Community Surgery along with Cllr Steve Ridley (DBC) at the Bexley Park Sports and Social Club, Calvert Drive, Dartford DA2 7GA at midday on Sunday 26th October 2025
This is your opportunity to raise any concerns you may have and to find out what he and I are doing to tackle the issues that matter to you
Everyone is welcome, and please share this message with anyone that you feel would benefit from attendance
Cllr Ridley – Attended
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16th October 2025
Visit to Wilmington Care Home – meeting with residents and staff – Attended
A Heartwarming Visit to Wilmington Care Home
Mrs Ridley and I had the pleasure of spending a truly uplifting afternoon at Wilmington Care Home in Dartford today, following a kind invitation from the manager, Blessing Adamu. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by staff and residents alike, and it was a privilege to engage with so many wonderful individuals throughout our visit.
We were treated to a delightful spread of tea, cakes, and sandwiches, shared in the company of residents whose stories and laughter made the occasion all the more special. Listening to their reflections on past experiences and current activities was both humbling and inspiring. It was clear that the home offers a rich and varied programme — from painting and drawing to music, singing, and book reading — all contributing to a vibrant and inclusive environment.
What stood out most was the genuine care and compassion shown by every member of staff. The atmosphere felt very much like one big family, with strong bonds between carers and residents that were evident in every interaction.
Our visit also provided an important opportunity to hear directly from staff about the daily challenges they face, particularly around transport. Many are working long shifts and struggling to get to and from the home due to limited bus services. Some are walking considerable distances — even from as far as Dartford town centre — while others must take lengthy, indirect routes via Bexleyheath much of which undertaken in the dark around Leyton Cross, especially during winter, with very poor and limited street lighting. A number of staff do not have access to private transport, making these journeys even more difficult.
We were also made aware of other operational concerns, which I have agreed to raise with council to explore possible solutions. Supporting those who care for our most vulnerable residents is a priority, and I will continue to advocate on their behalf.
As we left — sadly all too soon — we promised to stay in regular contact and were delighted to be invited back for future events. It was a very memorable afternoon, and I extend my sincere thanks to Blessing and the entire team for their hospitality, dedication, and the warmth they bring to Wilmington Care Home every day.
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Enquiry from KCC Councillor on behalf of DBC resident who is tenant and who has lost electricity supply to their property, with no ability to access facilities on an upper level by stair lift. Council were aware but delay had arisen. Contact to DBC has put urgency to resolve back on track and their agreement to contact individual and update course of action – Actioned
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14th October 2025
Meeting with relevant schools & organisations to discuss and progress issues relating to allegation dangerous parking /obstruction / Road Safety in Common Lane, Wilmington Court Road, and Tredegar Road Dartford. – Attended
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13th October 2025
Dartford Borough Council – General Assembly of Council Meeting – Attending
Questions from all group Leaders then…….
Motion 1- Black History month submission by Councillor Akintomide-Akinwamide – Voted
Motion 2- Dartford a proud multicultural borough but racist attacks from far right seek to intimidate and divide communities submission by Councillor Akintomide-Akinwamide – Voted
Motion 3 – Opposition to Government Digital ID submission by Councillor Steve Ridley – Voted
Motion 4 – Opposition to Gold Plated Council Pensions – cost to public recommendation to oppose submission by Councillor Michael Brown – Voted
Motion 5 – Safeguarding Disability Cuts – submission by Councillor Edie – Withdrawn
A number of other Council matters will be discussed all detailed and listed in the Summons and Agenda for this meeting
Further Councillor questions will be put and responded to. Motions will be voted upon.
GAC – Attended
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09th October 2025
Inspection throughout ward, – further meeting with specific retailers concerning issues Bexley Park, Maypole, and Leyton Cross – Attended
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08th October 2025
Surgery for local residents with Cllrs. Ridley & Cecil responding to questions to any issues that you may have – Location – Joydens Wood Community Centre, 9 Birchwood Road, Dartford, DA2 7NE – Everyone welcome, Time – 6pm to 8pm – Issues raised – allegation unkempt vegetation, both on private property extending over public footways and allyways, as well as same in public areas. Issues raised allegation regarding road sweeping in area, not being undertaken as stated, and when undertaken being done to sub standard level. Councillors attended.
Contact with Council Leader representing Association regarding Bexley Park playground refurbishment issues – Actioned
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05th October 2025
Preparation for forthcoming General Council Assembley Meeting on motions and questions – Actioned
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03rd October 2025
Inspecction throughout ward, -covering waste matters, ASB, – meeting with specific retailers concerning issues Bexley Park, Maypole, and Leyton Cross Road Safety matters – Attended
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30th September 2025
Councillor Group meeting to discuss upcoming Council motions and questions – Undertaken
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29th September 2025
Tree supply information provided – Woodland Trust Scheme available to Schools and Communities – Actioned
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26th September 2025
Confirmation of removal of 2 x abandoned vehicles following earlier complaint – Actioned
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25th September 2025
Reform UK Branch Gathering – Attended
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24th September 2025
Previous Commercial Waste Investigation Outcome – Advocated on behalf of retailers and enforcement overturned due to inaccurate data submitted to Enforcement Agency, and flawed enforcement processes. Actioned /Resolved
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23rd September 2025
Licencing Sub Committee – Premise Licence application – approved /granted – Attended
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22nd September 2025
Cabinet Advisory Panel “B” meeting – Questions to put to Council concerning capital expenditure on future building project – Attended
Matters relating to Planning Services – Tree Protection Order (TPO) issues location Maypole – Actioned / Resolved
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20th September 2025
Visit to ward, surgery information circulation
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18th September 2025
Inspection throughout ward, -meeting residents and BLL Director re allegation current issues re sweeping, Waste matters, ASB, and Fluid release.
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16th September 2025
Progressing various issues brought to Councillor’s attention by residents / associations
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15th September 2025
Meeting arranged with 2 x constituents concerning commercial waste enforcement. Meeting also scheduled with Bexley Lane Limited regarding Bexley Park matters – Attended – ongoing issues being investigated
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13th September 2025
Cllr Ridley Champions Archery Opportunity for Armed Forces Veterans
Cllr Ridley was proud to attend the recent Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club gathering, where he extended a warm invitation to all interested veterans to take part in a free Archery Have-a-Go session starting from October 2025. The initiative, designed to promote wellbeing, camaraderie, and a touch of friendly competition, was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from attendees.
Many veterans expressed enthusiasm for the chance to try something new and reconnect with others in a relaxed setting. Cllr Ridley will be personally contacting all those who registered interest, providing full details and joining instructions in the coming weeks.
This initiative reflects Cllr Ridley’s ongoing commitment to supporting our veteran community and creating inclusive opportunities for engagement and recreation.
This invitation was warmly supported by the Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Peter Whapshott who was also present at the event
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12th September 2025
Reform UK Branch meeting – Attended
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11th September 2025
Licencing Input DBC – Attended / Updated – Completed
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10th September 2025
Surgery for local residents with Cllrs. Ridley & Cecil responding to questions – further details found under surgery page on this website – Attended.
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09th September 2025
Dartford Borough Council – Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting – Actioned / Completed
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08th September 2025
Notification of allegation of speeding – Bexley Park Maypole – Police advised – Further enquiries to be made.
Notification of allegation of Fly Tipping – Bexley Park – Police / DBC updated – Further action to be considered
Enquiry regarding Bexley Park playground areas – Bexley Park – Request for consultation
Enquiry allegation regarding road sweeping – Bexley Park – Further enquiries to be undertaken
Further complaints concerning allegation Road Safety around schools on ward – Further investigation required
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06th September 2025
Councillor finds stolen /abandoned electric bicycle Bexley Park – Councillor Ridley during a regular reconissance of the ward today came across a suspected stolen electric bicycle on finding it he had it retained for Police collection
Meeting with resident over traffic /parking / obstruction issues – Leyton Cross – Attended / Further action to be undertaken
Meeting with Chairman of Bexley Park Residents Assdociation – various issues – parking, bus shelter, footpath matters – Attended / Further actions to be undertaken.
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04th September 2025
Update telephone conversation with complainant regarding allegation anti-social behavior Bexley Park, contact made with Police, contact with BP residents Association Chair scheduled – Actioned / Completed
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03rd September 2025
Inquiry regarding allegation Anti-Social Behavior at Bexley Park – meeting to be arranged with Police, Bexley Park Residents Association and complainant – initial discussion with local retailers – Actioned.
Wilmington Parish Council meeting – update to Council on recent DBC Maypole & Layton Cross matters – Attended / Completed.
Councillor information / surgery flyer distributed to residents in Denton Terrace, Heathwood Walk, The Dell, Portman Close, Heath End Road, Baldwyns Road, Broomwood Close, Beaconsfield Road, Old Bexley Lane – Actioned / Completed.
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02nd September 2025
Councillor information / surgery flyer continued distribution to residents in Sandringham Drive, Andrews Place, Wessex Walk, Williams Way, Calvert Drive, Abbey Drive, Pinewood Place, Franklin Road, Coopers Drive, Radzan Close, Chapel Walk, Anvil Terrace, Maplehurst Close – Actioned / Completed.
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01st September 2025
Councillor information / surgery flyer distributed to residents in Wallis Close, Tredegar Road, Manor Close, Wilmington Court Road, Clayton Croft Road, Manor Gate Lane, Common Lane, Parsons Lane, Hulsewood Close, Oakfield Lane, Leyton Cross Road, Caswellen Close, Cherry Tree Lane, Hook Green Lane – Actioned / Completed.
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28th August 2025
Enquiry regarding allegation abandoned / suspicious motor vehicle Leyton Cross – Information passed to Kent Police / DBC AB Team – Actioned / Completed.
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27th August 2025
Completion of information flyer for circulation to residents of Maypole and Leyton Cross Ward out to printers – Actioned / Completed
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25th August 2025
Wilmington Summer Fair – A vibrant celebration of community spirit, the Wilmington Summer Fair once again brought together a remarkable array of local charities, stallholders, cadet groups, Scouts, Guides, and a lively marching band. The event was honoured by the presence of the Mayor and Mayoress of Dartford, whose attendance highlighted the importance of civic engagement and local pride.
With glorious weather and an outstanding turnout from the public, the fair offered a wonderful opportunity to connect with residents and acknowledge the tireless efforts of those who dedicate their time to supporting a wide range of organisations across our community.
We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making the day such a success—from volunteers and performers to visitors and supporters. Your commitment and enthusiasm truly embody the spirit of Wilmington.
Community Announcement
The Liberty Childrens Home Charity is a dedicated charitable organisation supporting the welfare and development of 60 children in India. Operated entirely as a “No Cost” charity, it has no paid staff—ensuring that every penny donated goes directly to those in need.
The Trustees generously volunteer their time and personally cover all administrative expenses, allowing 100% of public contributions to be used for the benefit of the children.
If you would like to learn more or make a donation, please contact:
📧 charity@libertychildrenshome.org.uk
📞 07405 116675
Community Announcement
Fun Friends Groups – Clubs, Workshops, Parties, and Days out, supporting young people with addittional needs for more information please contact Esther Dawson on 07745036868 or email funfriendsgroups@gmail.com
Community Announcement
Wilmington Community Church would like to inform residents that their weekly food bank, The Pantry, operates every Thursday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. In addition to this vital service, the church hosts a variety of events throughout the year aimed at supporting and engaging the local community.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Becs Richardson at 07412 200107 or via email at becs@wilmingtoncommunitychurch.co.uk.
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22nd August 2025
Matters relating to Planning Services – Tree Protection Order (TPO) issues location Bexley Park – Actioned / Resolved
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20th August 2025
Meeting Owners / Managers / Staff of retail premises of Maplehurst Close Maypole to discuss allegation matters of concern – follow up enquiries to be undertaken – Attended / Completed.
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20th August 2025
Meeting with PC Shoker member of ward neighbourhood policing team – Attended / Completed.
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20th August 2025
Meeting with DBC Mayor – Cllr Whapshott Military Veterans Champion – Attended / Completed.
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20th August 2025
Enquiry /complaint follow up concerning unlawful street advertising – Actioned / Resolved
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19th August 2025
Reform UK Dartford Branch meeting – Attended / Completed.
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12th August 2025
Meeting with Cllr Cecil Reform Councillor Kent County Council – attended. Actioned / Completed – future surgery dates agreed arranged and listed
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04th August 2025
Attended address of Chair of BexleyPark Residents Association – Completed.
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02nd August 2025
Further responses provided to Cllr Ridley by Police representatives from previous Crime & Disorder (Overview & Scrutiny) Committee meeting 30/07/25 – Received / Completed.
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01st August 2025
Wilmington Parish Council Offices, meeting with Parish Clerk Mr Armitt, to discuss Maypole & Leyton Cross – Attended / Completed.
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30th July 2025
Crime & Disorder (Overview & Scrutiny) Committee – Attended
A number of questions posed to Police representatives responses provided, some to follow up on in due course – Actioned / Completed.
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28th July 2025
Dartford Borough Council – General Assembly of Council Meeting – Attended
Motion 1-Protecting Net-Zero Committments – Voted on
Motion 2- Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO’s)
Maiden speech in relation to concern over 29% HMO increase in Borough in last 12 months. Rapid growth of HMO’s not consistant with DBC Corporate plan. Advice that further growth of HMO’s should be restricted is a sound one, but concern over focus of this in areas of highest concentration, is likely to displace such premises across borough where they do not currently exist, causing further community disharmony in relation to this aspect where it is not seen at present. – Voted on
Motion 3 – Celebrating legacy of Dave Skinner – Voted on
A number of other Council matters were discussed all detailed and listed in the Summons and Agenda for this meeting
GAC – Undertaken / Completed.
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17th July 2025
Elected as Reform UK Borough Councillor to Dartford Borough Council
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Steve Ridley Councillor for Maypole and Leyton Cross Dartford Kent 
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