Tag: Chairman

Categories
Community News Council Open Spaces

New tree planted as a lasting legacy for 130 years of Edenbridge Town Council

Commemorative words on tree plaque

To mark 130 years of the Town Council, a new Amber Liquid tree has been planted in Stangrove Park – a symbol of our town’s heritage and growth.

This tree isn’t just a tribute to our history. It also marks the closing chapter of Councillor Bob Todd’s tenure as Chairman. Planting the Amber Liquid was one of his final acts before stepping down this week (12 May), adding a personal and meaningful touch to the Council’s milestone.

The tree will stand as a reminder of both the Council’s enduring presence and Cllr Todd’s dedicated service to our community.

Categories
Council

Cllr Angela Baker elected Chair of Edenbridge Town Council

Profile photo of Councillor Angela Baker

Councillor Angela Baker has been elected Chair of Edenbridge Town Council following a unanimous vote by fellow councillors at the Annual Council Meeting on 12 May. Councillor Jon Aldridge is Vice Chairman.

Angela’s journey into local politics began with a campaign close to home – improving Edenbridge Leisure Centre. “I started a campaign to get improvements at the Leisure Centre and went along to the Annual Town Meeting to make our points. Becoming a councillor was floated – and the rest is history!” she said.

She was elected to the Town Council in May 2019 and also represents the area on Sevenoaks District Council (elected May 2023), giving her a dual platform to advocate for Edenbridge.

Taking on the role of Chair is both humbling and energising for Angela. “I’m not quite sure how it happened!” she joked, before adding, “But seriously, it’s a real honour to have the support of all my lovely fellow councillors.”

Looking ahead, Angela is focused on maintaining momentum on the Council’s recent projects and making sure Edenbridge has a strong voice in wider district-level planning. “I want to build on the progress we’ve made and ensure Edenbridge is front and centre in any district-wide plans,” she said.

Among the initiatives close to her heart are Edenbridge’s green spaces. “I love all our open spaces,” she shared. “And I really hope we’ll be able to see a bandstand in Stangrove Park one day.”

She acknowledges that the town faces real challenges – from pressure on housing and infrastructure to limited transport links and the lack of a local senior school.

Angela also intends to stay closely connected to local residents. “We’ll continue with councillor surgeries at Bridges (last Thursday of each month 11am to 12 midday) and I’ll always take up invitations from local groups. Listening is key.”

Her message to residents as she steps into the role is simple but heartfelt: “Together we can make sure that Edenbridge remains the loveliest place to live.”

committees & contact Cllr baker
Categories
Council

Thank you to Cllr Bob Todd as his chairmanship comes to a close

At last night’s Annual Council Meeting (12 May), Edenbridge Town Council marked the end of an era as Councillor Bob Todd stepped down from his role as Chairman, after four years of dedicated service.

Cllr Todd hands over the reins to Councillor Angela Baker, who was voted in by her fellow councillors as the new Chair. Councillor Jon Aldridge is the new Vice Chairman.

Cllr Todd was appointed Chairman in May 2021, taking on the challenging role after the Covid-19 pandemic. Over the past four years, he has helped guide the Council as well as ensuring renewed community spirit, with residents coming together to mark momentous events, such as, Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, sadly soon followed by her death which was marked with the official Proclamation. A celebration event was held for the coronation of King Charles III. Then last year we commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and recently 80 years since VE Day.

D-Day 2024
Proclamation of King Charles III

“It’s been an honour to serve as Chairman over the past four years. I’ve seen first-hand the strength and spirit of Edenbridge – through challenges and achievements alike. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I’m grateful to everyone who plays a part in making our town such a special place,” said Cllr Todd.

During his time as Chairman, Cllr Todd worked with officers and fellow councillors on a wide range of community and Council projects. Passionate about inclusion and care, he championed the Dementia-Friendly Edenbridge initiative – something close to his heart. He oversaw the installation of the Jubilee Beacon, now a focal point for key community events, and helped the Council revitalise the weekly market to support the high street and local traders.

At the launch of Dementia-Friendly Edenbridge
Chairman cutting ribbon at playground
Official opening of the new playground at the Recreation Ground
Gardens in Bloom Awards evening

Cllr Todd was also involved  in the new home for the Food Bank operating now out of Rickards Hall, as well as supporting the over-55s Games Club, and in the major refurbishment of the Stangrove Park playground. He also played a key role in developing the Council’s latest strategy plan and objectives.

Always a strong supporter of local businesses and organisations, Cllr Todd made a point of attending key community events, including the 10-year anniversary of the HOUSE youth project, the opening of the Airborn factory in Edenbridge, the opening of the new Edenbridge Memorial Health Centre, and projects at Hever Primary School, funded with the help of Council CIL funds.

At the opening of Airborn’s latest facility in Edenbridge
10th anniversary of HOUSE youth project

He has hosted two Chairman’s Receptions, bringing together community leaders and volunteers, to thank those who make Edenbridge a better place.

As one of his final contributions, Cllr Todd planted a new Liquid Amber tree in Stangrove Park last week. This act serves as both a personal legacy and a celebration of the Council’s 130th anniversary – a fitting close to a chairmanship defined by community, commitment, and progress.

The Council extends its sincere thanks to Cllr Todd for his leadership, energy, and the lasting contributions he has made to Edenbridge.

What is a Chairman’s role?

The Chairman of a Town Council is the elected head of the Council and acts as its public representative. They chair Council meetings, help set the tone for discussions, and ensure decisions are made fairly and in line with Council procedures. Beyond the formal duties, the Chairman also represents the Council at community events, supports local initiatives, and works to strengthen connections between the Council and residents.

Categories
Community News

Chairman’s Summer Reception: A celebration of community spirit

On 4 September, the Town Council hosted the annual Chairman’s Summer Reception, bringing together councillors, council staff, partner agencies, and local community members, to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and hard work that keeps Edenbridge thriving.

Held at Rickards Hall, the evening was an opportunity for volunteers, individuals, and community groups to be personally thanked for their invaluable contributions. Among the attendees included volunteers who have worked with the Community Warden to help with litter-picking, bulb-planting, Speedwatch and the Games Club. Representatives from the Great Stone Bridge Trust and West Kent Housing also came along, both of which help fund the Community Warden’s role, as well as providing other vital services in the town. It was also lovely to welcome past councillors, Edenbridge’s local beat officer PC Maunsell and residents from the New Edenbridge Residents’ Association (NEDRA).

Chairman Cllr Bob Todd, who has now hosted the event for three years, expressed his appreciation for the community’s efforts.

Cllr Todd remarked:

“This is my third year hosting this special evening of gratitude, and it’s always something I look forward to. It is an opportunity to personally thank the many volunteers, individuals, and community groups who make Edenbridge such a wonderful place to live. I also want to express my appreciation to my fellow councillors and officers for their ongoing dedication.

“It fills me with pride to see our community come together like this, united in our shared commitment to making Edenbridge the best it can be. I’m especially heartened by the strong support from local organisations for those living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia – causes that are very close to my heart.

“I look forward to continuing to work alongside everyone as we build on the successes of our town.”

The event was made even more special by live music from singer Steve Conway, whose performance added a warm and uplifting atmosphere to the evening.

Chairman Cllr Bob Todd
Chairman Cllr Bob Todd gets some help with acoustics from Steve Conway!

As the town moves forward, the Chairman’s Summer Reception remains a testament to the strength of community spirit in Edenbridge, highlighting the importance of collaboration, recognition, and continued support for vital causes such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

Edenbridge Town Council looks forward to another year of working hand-in-hand with its community to maintain and grow the town’s vibrant spirit.

Find out more: dementia friendly edenbridge
Categories
Community News Democracy

Edenbridge councillor becomes Sevenoaks District Council’s new Chairman

Cllr Alan Layland with wife Lyn

After taking pole position to become Sevenoaks District Council’s Chairman, Cllr Alan Layland has got off to a flying start with his sights set on supporting a local charity that’s close to his heart.

Alan, who represents the Edenbridge South & West ward, was elected as the new Chairman at the District Council’s Annual Council meeting (23 May 2023).

Alan moved from East Dulwich to Edenbridge 56 years ago and worked as a health and safety co-ordinator for Eaton-Williams, an air conditioning company based in Edenbridge.

Alan says: “I was passionate about health and safety and proud to work for a business that exported to virtually every country you could think of. With manufacturing sites across the UK, I’d travel far and wide doing my bit to ensure my colleagues had a safe workplace.”

But work wasn’t Alan’s only passion, as he explains: “I’ve always loved living in Edenbridge. It has given me so much over the years so I’ve always wanted to give something back.

“As well as being an Edenbridge Town Councillor and a Sevenoaks District Councillor for the past eight years, I’m an honorary member of the Edenbridge Chamber of Commerce.

“In 2014, we organised a fabulous event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of John Surtees winning the F1 World Championship. John, who was also passionate about the town, drove his original 1964 race winning car through Edenbridge High Street followed by 36 classic Ferraris.

“Naturally, with my professional background, I was in the lead safety car! It was an honour to take part in such a fun event.

Over the next year, Alan is planning to raise the profile of the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community. Alan says: “Like so many others, I’ve been touched by dementia as both of my parents had the disorder. I know from personal experience it often has a profound impact on the loved ones of those living with the condition.

“I’ve worked with Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community for some time and I’ve seen their amazing work first hand. I want to do everything possible to support this amazing cause during my year as Chairman.

“In addition, I’m keen to continue supporting the Town Council’s work to make Edenbridge a dementia friendly town.

Alan, who has been married to Lyn for the past 46 years, adds: “It’s both humbling and a privilege to be elected as the Chairman of Sevenoaks District Council. Lyn and I are really looking forward to meeting residents, volunteers, businesses and community groups across the District in the coming year to hear about their amazing work and stories.”

Alan welcomes invitations to community events as the Chairman of Sevenoaks District. To invite Alan, visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/chairman or call 01732 227247.

You can also follow Alan on Twitter at @sdc_chairman.

Show Buttons
Hide Buttons