Tag: Councillor

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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
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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.

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Democracy

Your opportunity to become a councillor

Edenbridge Town Council is looking to co-opt three new councillors to fill current vacancies.

Councillors make a huge difference to the quality of life of local people and how local issues are dealt with. They work to improve the wellbeing of residents by enhancing the town’s caring community spirit, protecting the environment, and retaining the town’s character.

As a local councillor you will get involved with many interesting projects and issues that affect Edenbridge and our community. The Town Council owns and maintains a number of parks, playgrounds and buildings in the town, and works with a wide range of partners to make Edenbridge a better place to live.

If this sounds like something you would like to get involved with, please consider applying by emailing an expression of interest to townclerk@edenbridgetowncouncil.gov.uk, or if you prefer an informal chat first – contact the Town Clerk by email or call 01732 865368. Click for expression of interest form

The next Council meeting is on Monday 15 January – why not come along and get a feel for what it’s like to sit on the Council! You are also welcome to come along to any of our Committee meetings – take a look at our Meetings Calendar for all the details.

Candidates will be invited to attend a future full Council meeting and to give a short presentation, up to three minutes, on why you would like to be a Town Councillor and what you feel you can offer the community. Of course, applicants do not have to attend the meeting to be considered. This statement should be submitted whether you are attending the meeting or not.

Deadline: Friday 16 February 2024 – express interest and submit presentation statement to the Town Clerk, Caroline Leet, by email to townclerk@edenbridgetowncouncil.gov.uk

Monday 4 March, 7.30 pm – Council meeting to consider candidates.

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