Local News

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) dealt with a fire involving approximately 300 tonnes of baled hay in Matts Hill Road, Hartlip earlier today (Wednesday 26th October).

Three fire engines and a bulk water carrier were sent to the scene. Fire crews used two main jets and a hose reel to prevent the fire spreading to surrounding shrubbery.

Kent County Council's (KCC) Trading Standards Department are advising Galaxy Note 7 owners to turn off their smartphones following fire safety concerns.

The smartphone was recalled last month and owners were issued replacement phones, however there are still reports of batteries catching fire. As a result Samsung has announced it is ceasing all production of Galaxy Note 7's.

Customers with the original phone or a replacement should turn off the power immediately and contact the retailer where they purchased the device for a refund or an exchange.

Please visit the Samsung website for guidance and contact information:- http://www.samsung.com/us/note7recall/

New CGI images of the Spirit of Sittingbourne's planned regeneration project have been released by Swale Borough Council, as new restaurants and retailers sign up to come to the town.

Swale Borough Council and The Spirit Of SIttingbourne have confirmed that Pizza Express, Wildwood, Home Bargains and Travelodge have all signed up to come to the town.

To celebrate these new arrivals to Sittingbourne, a pizza party will be held at No.34 Sittingbourne High Street this coming Saturday (15th October). All are welcome to pop along between 11am-2pm to design their favourite toppings and enjoy a free pizza in return.

Will Mooney, partner at Carter Jonas, acting as outsourced development manager for Travelodge, told SFM News: "Sittingbourne is an important location for Travelodge. We have been trying to secure a quality site for some years.
The quality of the scheme, the central location and associated retail and cinema occupiers were key to Travelodge's decision in committing to the town."

Russell Kirkham, Head of Acquisitions at Pizza Express, told SFM News: "We're thrilled to announce that Pizza Express will be arriving in Sittingbourne as part of this exciting new regeneration development. The project looks set to put Sittingbourne on the map and it's great to be a part of it."

A spokesperson for Wildwood, said: "We are delighted to announce that we will be joining this important town centre initiative and look forward to working with Swale Council and U+I to open our doors to the residents and visitors of Sittingbourne."

Cllr Andrew Bowles, Leader of Swale Borough Council told SFM News: "Our ultimate aim for this regeneration scheme is to breathe new life into the town centre, so existing shops can thrive, and new businesses choose to open in the area. The cinema will be complimented by the restaurants and hotel, and will provide a welcome boost in the number of visitors to the town. We know people are impatient to see work begin, but this is a complex development, with many interlinked aspects that need to be resolved to make sure the scheme is the success the town deserves."

Richard Upton, Deputy CEO of U+I told SFM News: "Signing up these businesses demonstrates how much interest and opportunity there is in Sittingbourne, and our commitment to the ongoing revitalisation of the area. We expect that news of this will draw more leisure and retail operators to the town centre - helping to make Sittingbourne a true destination town."

Mark Quinn, Chairman of Quinn Estates, the operator of the project, added: "Today's announcement shows confidence from wider businesses and retailers in our plans for Sittingbourne's regeneration; it also reflects the hard work of the Spirit of Sittingbourne team, and shows we can deliver what this town needs and deserves."

The Spirit of Sittingbourne development is a Public Private Partnership between U+I, Swale Borough Council, Quinn Estates and Essential Land. The scheme includes the remodelling of the town centre and the introduction of a new highway arrangement outside the railway station, to create a more pedestrian friendly environment without restricting traffic flow. Initial highway works will be the first to commence.

If you want to find out more please visit: www.spiritofsittingbourne.com.

Seven people were arrested by Kent Police after officers executed drug warrants across Sittingbourne late last week.

On Thursday 22nd September officers executed five drug warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

The first address to be targeted was in Swanstree Avenue, Sittingbourne, where officers found 21 cannabis plants in the garage connected to the property. A quantity of cash was also seized along with various other drugs paraphernalia. A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of abstracting electricity and producing cannabis, and a 23-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of supplying a controlled drug.

Officers also targeted another property in the same road and 27 cannabis plants were found in the garage. Police also found what appeared to be pill-making equipment, and a safe which appeared to contain further drugs. A 25-year-old woman and a 27-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and possession with intent to supply cocaine.

A property in Broom Road, Sittingbourne, was also targeted by officers. During the search officers found a tub containing bags of white powder. A 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

A search was also conducted in Peel Drive, Sittingbourne, where officers found several bags containing what appeared to be herbal cannabis. Scales and empty small bags were also found. A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis.

Police also searched a property in Hythe Road, Sittingbourne, where they found cannabis and cash in excess of £2,000. A number of mobile phones were also found. A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs.

All those who were arrested during the warrants have been bailed until Tuesday 10th January 2017 whilst Kent Police enquiries continue.