January 2026 Update

Welcome to 2026, a new year with new hopes for the future.

Elections and Democracy. Starting with this one may go against the whole concept of new hopes for the future. You will have heard much news about the postponement of the Mayoral elections which were scheduled for May next year. This can be seen as expedient to avoid unnecessary costs before the new structure is known, or an erosion of the right of people to have their say. It is for everyone to form their own opinion.

There are so many elections that it can be very confusing. Currently, there are to be the County Council elections next year which were postponed last year, Unitary Authority elections in 2027, and the Mayoral elections are now in to be 2028. But there is no guarantee that this will not change. It may even have changed between writing this article and the Grapevine arriving on your doorstep.

Nature Conservation. A meeting of the groups who received funding was held for them to share their plans and ideas. Many projects include a Miyawaki mini forest. The Harleston proposal is in many ways the most ambitious. I joined the Waveney Volunteers for Nature to start the groundwork. It was a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the open air. I will need more of it to work off the excesses of the festive period. Maybe you will join in, and I will see you there?

Members Ward Allowance. I was able to give the Harleston Players £300 from my allowance for a community play based on the Waveney Valley Line. There will be a range of outreach events including a research committee, living history re-enactments, performances and workshops in schools, railway walks and an exhibition of photographs. I still have £450 remaining, so if your group would like help, please get in touch.

Being able to help people is one of the most rewarding parts of the role. I can’t guarantee that I can sort it out, but I will try. I will hold my next surgery on 10 January 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