April 2026 Update

The Government reversed its decision to postpone the Norfolk County Council elections. They are back on, Thursday 7 May. After almost 25 years of public service Cllr Martin Wilby will be stepping down for a very well earned rest. He will be sorely missed. I will be standing as the Conservative candidate for the East Depwade Division. You should have received a card from me asking for your views in a survey. Your views really do matter, if you have not already done so, please complete the survey. It can be found at tinyurl.com/telltrevor

Budget. The council voted unanimously to increase the Council Tax for a Band D property by £5 to £180.00 for 2026/27. Again, keeping the increase below inflation. While most of the budget relates to large items such as waste collection and investment in leisure facilities, there are some smaller items of potential local interest. There is £150,000 allocated to help communities with local nature conservation and recovery initiatives in line with the ‘Our Nature Recovery’ concept which started in Harleston. There is £500,000 for new community facilities and £2,250,000 for improving existing community facilities and open spaces. There is now £450,000 in the Community Action Fund for local projects, with the maximum given to individual grants now set at £40,000. There is also £350,000 allocated to a Business Builder fund to support businesses grow and develop.

In Bloom has been launched as a scheme designed to support towns, parishes and community groups to deliver projects that enhance the appeal of their communities, encourage growing produce, and promote wildlife and biodiversity. With £1 available for every resident, this is an incredible opportunity to make Harleston bloom, for nature, for wellbeing and for future generations. Find out more at: https://orlo.uk/IkGaI

Community groups, schools and businesses are being asked to roll up their sleeves and do their bit for the environment in the Big Litter Pick running until 31 May. There are five prizes of £500 each to participating groups to spend on their community. Every registered group not successful in the prize draw will receive £50, as a thank you for taking part.

I will hold my next surgery on 11 April at Harleston Information Plus on Exchange Street in Harleston at 10:00. So, if you have any questions, it would be great to see you there. I will also be knocking on doors asking your views, so maybe I will you then.

Cllr Trevor Graham

South Norfolk Council

Member for Harleston