This summer, your local Green Party
surveyed residents of Gorrell ward in Whitstable about their views on their
community. Thanks to all those who took the time to tell us their views.
The results show that people love Whitstable
for its strong sense of community, great high street and for being such a friendly
neighbourhood.
The three key priorities for improving
life in the town were:
1) Plastic pollution
2) Parking
3) Affordable housing
Plastic pollution
Greens will continue to actively support the Plastic-Free movement, encouraging local businesses to reduce single-use plastic containers and packaging.
We would also prioritise multi-compartment bins in Whitstable, especially on the beaches. This would mean an increase in recycling and a decrease in litter.
We would campaign for an alternative to the thousands of disposable takeaway cups and glasses being used by the town's cafes, pubs and festivals.
Parking
The town has serious problems with
parking, especially in the summer months when visitors flock to Whitstable. The
survey showed support for more residents-only parking in the centre of town.
The Green Party will also campaign to get the long-promised out-of-town park
and ride facilities set up.
Affordable housing
Currently the cheapest house prices
in the District are more than 13 times the annual salary of the lowest paid,
making home ownership an impossible dream for many.
Green Party policy is
to use forms of housing provision where affordability can be guaranteed, such
as social and co-operative housing, and encouraging self-build and custom-build
that directly meet peoples’ needs while empowering the builders/occupants.
We would also set up a living rent commission, ensure secure tenancies and the Right to Rent
if a householder falls behind on mortgage payments.
We would
campaign to charge 200% council tax on homes left empty for longer than 6
months and set aside the extra revenue received to provide free roof and
cavity-wall insulation to residents in the District.
