News: Tim Ridgway
This week’s headlines from across the city
FUNDING CUTS
Brighton and Hove City Council must make £20 million of savings from its budget, as the government spending squeeze continues.
Councillor Ollie Sykes, the Green lead for finance, spoke to Latest TV last week about the issue – emphasising that picking out one area over another is far from easy. That’s why the minority Green adminstration has proposed a council tax increase of 5.9%.
With the Conservatives backing a freeze, it’s once again Labour councillors that have a tough decision to make. A consultation on services will run for the coming weeks before more detailed plans are drawn up.The final budget will then be decided in February.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
Tens of thousands of people bowed their heads today to mark Remembrance Day.
It followed a week of events across the city to remember those who gave their lives for future generations. Sunday saw hundreds of people attend services at Brighton’s Old Steine, Hove’s Grand Avenue and outside Worthing Town Hall, as well as other events along the South Coast.
With this year marking the centenary of the start of the Great War, the poignancy was elevated somewhat.
DIABETES WARNING
Thousands of people could develop diabetes if they continue their current habits.
Health chiefs said numbers with the condition could increase by 40% by 2022– becoming one of the most serious issues facing the city.
That’s because, while a huge amount of resources have been directed towards reducing children’s obesity, the number of overweight adults has increased.
Speaking to Latest TV, Tom Scanlon, the city’s head of public health, urged people to look at their diet and cut out sugary foods.
BUILDING HOPES
Developers unveiled plans for up to 380 new homes on a golf course.
The redevelopment of Benfield Valley Golf Course in Hangleton, Hove, by Bouygues Development was unveiled at an exhibition at the Hangleton Manor pub last week.
With the city’s housing shortage becoming an ever-increasing problem, I expect most politicians to be grudgingly in favour of the proposal.
That is if there isn’t a backlash in what is a marginal seat in the local elections.
ILLUMINATING SHOW
Christmas will be welcomed into the city on Thursday with the switching on of the festive lights.
Dubbed the largest seasonal display of lights on the South Coast, the illuminations in the city centre will be turned on at 5pm in East Street.
For those of you who get down there, there’s plenty of fun-filled festive treats in store for you.
COFFEE CHAIN STIR
Starbucks is causing a stir in Worthing after the Seattle firm announced it wanted to open a second branch in Worthing.
Some locals have welcomed the proposal, adding it will bring 20 jobs to the town.
But some want to see it barred from the town centre – fearing
it will pull trade away from independent traders.
ROLLING BACK THE YEARS
Brighton has always been on top of the latest trends. But is it ready for Steampunk?
Rocking pensioner Baron Volt-Hazard – whose real name is Barry Wilson – is determined to get Brightonians on board with this underground movement, which has its roots in a love for Victorian engineering.
To see more of this visit www.thelatest.tv
POP-UP SURPRISE
For those of you who like Christmas shopping (not me), a new venture is offering people to chance to buy something a little different.
Etsy Brighton – a group of designers that has its roots in social media – has taken over a store in Brighton Square for the next few weeks.
Showcasing wares from local designers, you can guarantee anything you pick up there will be a unique present that many of you are looking for. Check it out!
SKATES ON
Last week the Royal Pavilion ice rink opened for its fifth year.
And it’s not just happy smiling people who are enjoyed a spin around the winter wonderland – we caught these seagulls enjoying a twirl too….
