March 2026 Update

Elections and Democracy. You will probably have seen recent announcements that the planned Norfolk County Council elections have been postponed. This follows a similar delay last year. This was a decision ultimately taken by Government but took into consideration the views of the County Council. I have my own personal very strong opinion on the postponed elections. It is for everyone to form their own opinion.

Nominations have opened for the South Norfolk Community Awards 2026. Do you know someone who goes the extra mile to help others? This is your chance to shine a light on their work by nominating them for an award. Find out more at: https://orlo.uk/WXEto

Recycling. The next initiative that is being considered is reverse recycling machines. You may have seen these in countries in Europe. You pay a deposit on cans and bottles and take them to a vending machine to return them. The aim is to improve recycling rates. I learned that people are putting batteries and disposable vapes into the recycling bins. Please don’t do this as they can cause fires in the recycling process. Residents can now take advantage of a new bookable kerbside collection service for unwanted small electrical items and household batteries. Find out more and book your collection: https://orlo.uk/knEMc

Environment. Adrian Ramsey will be holding a Sustainable Communities Conference on 13 March in Diss at the Corn Hall. The are two topics, one of which is Nature Recovery. I will sit on the discussion panel to share and promote the work of our community in nature recovery and the greenspace conservative project. I will be visiting other projects funded by the Nature Conservation Fund, it will be good to compare the Harleston plans and vision to that of other communities.

Grant Funding. I applied to the Community Action Fund for £10,000 to help Sancroft Academy improve their stage and lighting systems. I awarded £250 from my Members Ward Fund to Waveney Volunteers for Nature for materials and equipment. I still have £250 remaining, if you have a requirement please get in touch, but you must be quick as it must be used by the end of March.

I will hold my next surgery on 14 March 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