August 2026 Update
It was reported in the press that a government minister went against Whitehall officials’ advice in imposing a three unitary structure for Norfolk under Local Government Reorganisation. South Norfolk Council (SNC) have submitted a protective claim to challenge the process involved in the decision. SNC are not alone, authorities across the country are issuing legal challenges. However, until any outcome is known, SNC officers are acting with prudence and continue with plans for the new structure and elections taking place next year.
SNC are looking to introduce a ‘Library of Things’ programme. This allows people to rent everyday items rather than buy them. It started as a grassroots experiment in 2014 in South London and has helped kickstart a global movement. Town and parish councils will be contacted to identify suitable locations for roll out.
The weekly food waste recycling programme is being rolled out in phases. Harleston is scheduled for August. During the recent high temperature, bin collections started at 6:30 to help the team work safely. Thank you to everyone who has shown our waste collection crews kindness during the recent hot weather. From cold drinks to ice creams, so many of you have gone out of your way to help keep our crew going while they are collecting waste.
The Nature Conservation Fund proved very popular last year and there is to be another round of funding for community projects in the coming months. I attended a showing of ‘The Peoples Emergency’ hosted by Adrian Ramsey in Diss. This raises awareness of the impacts of climate change and what we can all do. Would there be interest for a screening in Harleston?
There are so many great things that take place in Harleston, I was delighted to be a marshal at the recent Pink Ladies Tractor Run. Well done to everyone involved in this wonderful cause.
I will be holding my surgery on 8 August 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.
Cllr Trevor Graham
South Norfolk Council
Member for Harleston