June 2026 Update

We have a new County Councillor, Joseph Kerrison. There was a 49% turnout in East Depwade, which is very much higher than the 34% for the elections in 2021. This turnout was replicated across the County. It is encouraging to see so many people engaging in the democratic process.

I have often mentioned the ‘Go for It’ and ‘Keep it Going’ grant funds. Harleston Allotments Association has been awarded £300 from the ‘Keep it Going’ grant fund to help buy compost.

The Help Hub van visited Harleston on 20 April, working with Harleston Information Plus to offer friendly, face‑to‑face support and advice.

A new weekly food waste collection service is scheduled to be rolled out from July. This is part of the Government’s Simpler Recycling legislation designed to ensure consistency across the country, making recycling easier and helping to boost national recycling rates.

I have recently helped children from Sancroft Academy plant their sponsor tree at Magpies Meadow and attended the Country Market 50th anniversary at King George’s Hall.

New licensing requirements have been introduced for private keepers of primates. The regulations are designed to ensure significantly higher welfare standards for primates kept in private settings. From 6 April 2026, all private primate keepers and people proposing to keep a primate are required to hold a Primate License, valid for a maximum of three years, and undergo reassessment to renew their permission to keep their animals. Find out more at: https://orlo.uk/J3sLW

I will not be holding my surgery in June and will return on 11 July 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 was disappointed not to be elected as your County Councillor and appreciate all those who lent me their support from across the political divide. I would like to wish Cllr Jo Kerrison all the best in his new role. I look forward to working with him so that District and County Councils can continue to work together in the best interests of Harleston.

Cllr Trevor Graham

South Norfolk Council

Member for Harleston