Welcome to our latest Parish news.

NOTICE OF A BY-ELECTION - BOXLEY PARISH NORTH WARD - 29 MAY 2025

29

May 2025

CASUAL VACANCY NOTICE

19

May 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- EMPLOYMENT FRAUD ALERT

19

May 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Employment Fraud Alert!


Dear residents of Kent,

There has been an increase of Employment/Recruitment Fraud in West Kent!

What is Employment/Recruitment Fraud?

Criminals create a fraudulent employment opportunity or steal the reputation of a company and create a fake advert pretending to be advertising job opportunities. They may advertise on legitimate websites.
When browsing websites for job opportunities, check the details for the company from the advert on Companies house. The contact details and address information the advert should match to that on Companies House. If it differs, be wary that it could be a fraudulent advert.

If you have received an email, text message, social media message or WhatsApp message advertising a job that you have not applied for, this may be fraudulent, and you should treat it as suspicious. DO NOT click on any links within the email/message.

Look out for email job offers that claim they can make you rich quickly and offer incredibly high salaries for part-time hours and/or require you to make an upfront payment to secure work.

A professional employer/agency will not ask you for money to work for them.

If you are ever unsure of the authenticity of the email/message and/or the link you are advised to use, do not proceed as this may not be a legitimate source.

The ABC of fraud prevention:

Never ASSUME –Never assume a call/email/ text/message is genuine.
Never BELIEVE –Never believe a call/email/ text/message is genuine – Scammers may ‘spoof’ official telephone numbers and emails, for example, the call display may show your banks telephone number, or the email may appear genuine.
Always CONFIRM –Always confirm if the call/email/ text/message is genuine – Ask for identification ( Name, Branch, employee number etc). Tell the caller you will hang up and call back to confirm. Call the bank on the number shown on their website using a different phone, or wait at least 10 minutes. Ask if it was a genuine call. If you are unsure, ask family or friends.


Please remember to never send your personal information, bank details or money to anyone if you receive an email or call asking for you to. Banks, police, HMRC and other organisations will NEVER ask you to transfer money, send money or ask for banking details and passwords. NEVER give this information to anyone.

Have a lovely weekend, enjoy the sunshine and stay safe!

Emily Jenner 46061435

Fraud Prevention Co-ordinator (West)

Neighbourhood alert

Cyber essentials

SENT ON BEHALF OF UK POWER NETWORKS:- Temporary Road Closure -Boarley Lane,Sandling -19th May 2025 (Maidstone District)

19

May 2025

UK Power Networks - Temporary Road Closure -Boarley LaneSandling -19th May 2025 (Maidstone District)

Due to works planned to be undertaken by UK Power Networks, it will be necessary to close part of Boarley Lane, Sandling, from 19th May 2025 with estimated completion by 23rd May 2025.

Boarley Lane, Sandling, will be closed outside Thornedowne. To the extent indicated by signs and barriers on site.

The alternative route for any northbound through traffic is via Boarley Lane, Sandling Lane, A229 Running Horse Roundabout, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Cobtree Roundabout, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Blue Bell Hill, A229 Kits Coty Slip Northbound Off, Rochester Road, A229 Kits Coty Slip Southbound On, A229 Blue Bell Hill, Chatham Road, Tyland Lane, Boarley Lane.

The alternative route for any southbound through traffic is via Tyland Lane, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Cobtree Roundabout, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Running Horse Roundabout, Sandling Lane, Boarley Lane.

Pedestrian access will be maintained during the works.

The closure is required for the safety of the public and workforce to allow a new electric connection to be carried out, works are undertaken by UK Power Networks.

For the most up to date information on these works please visit: https://one.network/?tm=141407320

For information regarding this closure please contact UK Power Networks on 08000 294 285, who will be able to assist with the scope of these works.

The Kent County Council Highways Helpline phone number is: 03000 418181

Map

Imagery © 2025 MapTiler | Imagery © 2025 Hexagon | © MapTiler © OpenStreetMap contributors

This bulletin contains public information and can be forwarded to any other road users who may be affected. Every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, but no liability can be accepted for any changes or errors.
Road names are taken from the National Street Gazetteer, which can be viewed on one.network, with alternative names given where known.

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- CURRENT FRAUD SCAMS

15

May 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- ROAD CLOSURE - BEECHEN BANK ROAD & BOXLEY ROAD, BOXLEY

15

May 2025

MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- CURRENT SCAMS TARGETING KENT RESIDENTS

12

May 2025

GENERAL

12

May 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- Maidstone Community Support Centre, Maidstone ME14 1HH

12

May 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:-

Maidstone Community Support Centre are currently organising a range of community events across the country to inform everyone about possible changes to their energy meters. There has been quite a bit in the news recently about energy meters and a BBC radio signal that is used to control them. This is an old style meter called RTS which stands for Radio Teleswitch. This is essentially a service that communicates with the meter which tells it when to switch between peak and off peak times and also tells the consumer unit when to switch a customers heating and hot water on and off.

This is old technology and is out of date which is why they are switching it off. The switch off date is 30th June 2025
Once this RTS signal is switched off, all meters that run using this system will stop working correctly coincide which can have a big impact, especially on some of our most vulnerable in our community.

Neighbourhood Watch is currently looking for people to come forward to help run these events. You would receive FULL support and training and it is a fantastic opportunity to help others within your community to feel well informed and confident to know what will be happening, what it involves and what is expected of them. This helps reduce the likelihood that they will be scammed and confused with mis-information.
If you live around the following area and are free on the date stated, YOU could be that key person who could be a volunteer for us in this project. All of the venues are already booked and the essentials are all covered, you would get travel expenses too.
Your local event is:

Maidstone Community Support Centre, Maidstone ME14 1HH Monday 12th May, 10.00am - 1.00pm

If you feel that you would like to take part in this exciting partnership between NHW and E.ON Next in helping to support local meetings in your region, do get in touch to find out more:-

emma.drozd@ourwatch.org.uk

CASUAL VACANCY NOTICE

09

May 2025

CASUAL VACANCY NOTICES

08

May 2025

KCC Road Closure

08

May 2025

KCC ROAD CLOSURE - BOARLEY LANE, SANDLING

01

May 2025

NOTICE OF POLL: MAIDSTONE RURAL NORTH

01

May 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- HELP SOMEONE QUIT SMOKING

29

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- ENGAGEMENT EVENT AT THE MALL

27

April 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

CiP Engagement Event at the Mall in Maidstone : Sun 27 Apr 10:00


We are excited to inform you that we will be at the Mall in Maidstone this Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We will be near Boots, and Moo Boo Bubble Tea. We will be available to discuss various volunteering opportunities with in Kent Police.

If you are free and interested in learning more about how you can contribute to our community, please come and talk to us.

We will be providing information on several roles, including:

- Special Constables

- Community Policing Volunteers

- Police Support Volunteers

- Cadet Leaders

This is a great chance to ask questions, get detailed information, and see how you can make a difference. We look forward to seeing you there!

When & Where is it?

Sun 27 Apr 2025 10:00 - 16:00

The Mall Maidstone, Pad's Hill
Maidstone
ME15 6AT
///views.sport.yoga


SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- Volunteer support (urgently) required – Maidstone Community Support Centre, Maidstone ME14 1HH

24

April 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

Neighbourhood Watch

Message Type Icon

Volunteer support (urgently) required – Maidstone Community Support Centre, Maidstone ME14 1HH


We are currently organising a range of community events across the country to inform everyone about possible changes to their energy meters. There has been quite a bit in the news recently about energy meters and a BBC radio signal that is used to control them. This is an old style meter called RTS which stands for Radio Teleswitch. This is essentially a service that communicates with the meter which tells it when to switch between peak and off peak times and also tells the consumer unit when to switch a customers heating and hot water on and off.

This is old technology and is out of date which is why they are switching it off. The switch off date is 30th June 2025

Once this RTS signal is switched off, all meters that run using this system will stop working correctly coincide which can have a big impact, especially on some of our most vulnerable in our community.

Neighbourhood Watch is currently looking for people to come forward to help run these events. You would receive FULL support and training and it is a fantastic opportunity to help others within your community to feel well informed and confident to know what will be happening, what it involves and what is expected of them. This helps reduce the likelihood that they will be scammed and confused with mis-information.

If you live around the following area and are free on the date stated, YOU could be that key person who could be a volunteer for us in this project. All of the venues are already booked and the essentials are all covered, you would get travel expenses too.

Your local event is:

Maidstone Community Support Centre, Maidstone ME14 1HH Monday 12th May, 10.00am - 1.00pm

If you feel that you would like to take part in this exciting partnership between NHW and E.ON Next in helping to support local meetings in your region, do get in touch with me to find out more

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- COURIER FRAUD ALERT

24

April 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Courier Fraud Alert!


There has been an increase in Courier Fraud in your local area!

What is Courier Fraud?

Courier Fraud occurs when a criminal contacts a victim by telephone, purporting to be a police officer or bank official. To substantiate this claim, the caller might be able to confirm some basic details about the victim such as their full name and address. They claim there is an issue with your bank account, they have someone in custody or request your assistance with an ongoing bank or Police investigation. The ultimate aim of this call is to convince you into parting with your money either in person, online, via the post office or a money service bureau or in a bank. They may even ask you to buy high value goods, foreign currency or gift cards such as Amazon, iTunes etc.

The caller may also offer a telephone number for the victim to telephone or ask the victim to call the number on the back of their bank card to check that they are genuine. In these circumstances, either the number offered will not be genuine or, where a genuine number is suggested, the criminal will stay on the line and pass the victim to a different individual.

The caller may also ask you to lie to the bank staff as they may ‘be in on it’ and tell you to say it is for house renovations, a new car or your family members.

Your bank, the police or His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs will never:

· call and ask you for your full PIN or full banking password.

· ask you to lie.

· ask you to withdraw money to hand over to them.

· ask you to purchase high value jewellery, watches or foreign currency.

· ask you to purchase a gift cards or high value goods.

· ask you to transfer money out of your account.

How to protect yourself

· Be extremely wary of unsolicited phone calls from your bank or the police, particularly if they are requesting personal information.

· End the call, call back on a different phone line or on a mobile. If this is not possible, wait 5 minutes before calling back. STOP, HANG UP, CALL 159. 159 is a short-code phone service that connects people safely to their bank’s fraud prevention service or for the police dial ‘101’.

· Speak to friends or family before carrying out any actions.

· Don’t trust claims made by cold callers.

· Never hand over your money, bank cards or make purchases following an unexpected call.

· Never share your PIN, One-time passwords (OTPs) or passwords with anyone.

Please remember this key message: The A B C of Scam Awareness

Never ASSUME – never assume a caller is genuine.

Never BELIEVE – never believe a caller is genuine – scammers may ‘spoof’ official telephone numbers, so the call display may show your banks telephone number, but it does not mean it is a genuine call.

Always CONFIRM – always confirm if the call is genuine – ask for identification (name, branch, employee number etc). Tell the caller you will hang up and call back to confirm. Call the bank on the number shown on their website using a different phone or wait at least 10 minutes. Ask if it was a genuine call.

If you have paid money or shared your bank details, contact your bank’s fraud team straight away.

SENT ON BEHALF OF SGN:- GAS NETWORK UPGRADE - BOXLEY ROAD, MAIDSTONE

24

April 2025

Please see update below and on our website about our ongoing work to upgrade the gas network in Penenden Heath.

https://www.sgn.co.uk/our-gas-works/major-planned-projects/maidstone-sandling-lane

Update - Tuesday 22 April

We'd like to thank everyone affected by this essential project for your continuing patience and support. Our work to upgrade the gas network in the Penenden Heath area is progressing well. Here's the latest update.

Sandling Lane
Our network upgrades are now completed on Sandling Lane.

Boxley Road - Phase one
We are currently working along Boxley Road with a road closure in place. We’re working from the junction of Neville Close down to the roundabout junction with Sandling Lane and Penenden Heath Road. Once we’ve passed the roundabout, traffic will once again be able to access Boxley Road going towards Boxley from Sandling Lane and Penenden Heath Road.
Our engineers have identified some additional pipework which requires further investigation. We now expect to be able to reopen Boxley Road on the north side of the Sandling Lane / Penenden Heath Road roundabout from Tuesday 29 April. Boxley Road will then be closed around our work on the south side of the roundabout while we complete phase two of our work.

Boxley Road - Phase two
We’ll continue upgrading our pipes along Boxley road from the Sandling Lane/Penenden Heath Road roundabout to the junction with Rock Road. A road closure will be in place around our work as we move along the road. During this phase, access along Boxley Road going towards Maidstone will be maintained via a signed diversion route.

Penenden Heath Road
From 21 July, we’ll be working from the junction with Boxley Road to the junction with Sittingbourne Road. All going well, this phase will end on approximately Monday 1 September.

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- BEARSTED ROAD, AND NEW CUT ROAD, MAIDSTONE, 23 APRIL 2025

23

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- Road Surface Improvement - Beechen Bank Road and Boxley Road, Boxley

17

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- Kent Fraud Alert - 17 April 2025

17

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC - ROAD CLOSURE - BOXLEY ROAD, WALDERSLADE

15

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF SGN:- Gas Network Upgrade - Sandling Lane/Boxley Road

14

April 2025

MEMORIAL BENCHES WITHIN THE PARISH

10

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- VIRTUAL FRAUD PREVENTION PRESENTATION

10

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- My name is Emily, I am a Fraud Prevention Co-Ordinator for Kent Police!

I would like to invite you to join me on Thursday 1st May 2025 15:00pm - 16:00pm for a virtual Fraud Prevention presentation via Microsoft Teams!

Some of the areas covered includes fraudulent calls, emails and text messages, Romance/Friendship fraud, Rogue Traders, Gift card Fraud, Impersonation and investment fraud, recovery fraud and ways to protect yourself against fraud!

If you are interested in finding out how to protect yourself from the threat of fraud and how to avoid criminals stealing your money and would like to attend the virtual fraud prevention presentation, please contact Emily Jenner at KFAS@ecis.police.uk to receive your link to join the event!

In the meantime, please remember the ABC of fraud awareness:

Never ASSUME – Never assume a caller is genuine.
Never BELIEVE – Never believe a caller is genuine – Scammers may ‘spoof’ official telephone numbers, so the call display may show your banks telephone number, but it does not mean it is a genuine call.
Always CONFIRM – Always confirm if the call is genuine –Ask for identification ( Name, Branch, employee number etc). Tell the caller you will hang up and call back to confirm. Call the bank on the number shown on their website using a different phone, or wait at least 10 minutes. Ask if it was a genuine call.

Banks, police, HMRC and other organisations will NEVER ask you to transfer money, send money or ask for banking details and passwords. NEVER give this information to anyone.

SENT ON BEHALF OF SUEZ

08

April 2025



Our Easter waste collection schedule is provided below:

Date

Waste collection service information

Friday 18 April 2025

  • Barking depot: Waste collections scheduled during the day will be moved to Wednesday 16 April or Thursday 17 April. Night services will operate as usual.
  • All other depots and services will operate as usual.

Saturday 19 April 2025

  • Open depots: Fareham, Hayes, Mitcham and Sittingbourne.
  • Closed depots: Aldershot, Earlswood, Eastbourne and Barking.

Sunday 20 April 2025

  • Open depots: Hayes and Mitcham.
  • Closed depots: Fareham, Sittingbourne, Aldershot, Earlswood, Eastbourne and Barking.

Monday 21 April 2025

  • Barking depot: Waste collections scheduled during the day will be moved to 22 April. Night services will operate as usual.
  • All other depots and services will operate as usual.


Please note the Customer Hub will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Should you require more information about this year’s Easter collection schedule, please contact your regional Customer Hub on:

Phone:0800 049 5832
Email:customerservicesse.uk@suez.com



www.suez.co.uk

23-21-15_Suez_Logo_Footer_Image


STATEMENT OF PERSONS NOMINATED FOR ELECTION AS A COUNTY COUNCILLOR FOR MAIDSTONE RURAL NORTH

07

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- PCC launches new Police & Crime Plan

03

April 2025


SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:-

PCC launches new Police & Crime Plan
________________________________________
The PCC, Matthew Scott has launched the new Police & Crime Plan for Kent called Cut Crime, Support Victims, Build Trust. He wants this to be the focus for Kent Police for the next four years. It is divided into four priorities - Protecting People, Protecting Places, Protecting Properties and Productive Partnerships. For more information go to our website - Cut Crime, Support Victims, Build Trust.

SENT ON BEHALF OF CITYFIBRE:- Temporary Road Closure - Lidsing Road, Lidsing - 28th April 2025 (Maidstone District)

03

April 2025

CityFibre - Temporary Road Closure -Lidsing RoadLidsing -28th April 2025 (Maidstone District)

Due to works planned to be undertaken by CityFibre, it will be necessary to close part of Lidsing Road, Lidsing, from 28th April 2025 with estimated completion by 1st May 2025.

Lidsing Road, Lidsing, will be closed from the junction of Old Lidsing Road to the junction of Forge Lane, between the hours of 08:00 and 18:00 only. To the extent indicated by signs and barriers on site.

The alternative route for any through traffic approaching on Lidsing Road is via Lidsing Road, Dunn Street, Dunn Street Road, Forge Lane and vice versa.

The alternative route for any through traffic approaching from Westfield Sole Road is via Westfield Sole Road, Walderslade Woods, Boxley Road, Yelsted Lane, Lidsing Road and vice versa.

Pedestrian access will be maintained during the works.

The closure is required for the safety of the public and workforce to allow fibre cable installation works to be carried out, works are undertaken by CityFibre.

For the most up to date information on these works please visit: https://one.network/?tm=142058895

For information regarding this closure please contact CityFibre, who will be able to assist with the scope of these works.

The Kent County Council Highways Helpline phone number is: 03000 418181

Map

Imagery © 2025 MapTiler | Imagery © 2025 Hexagon | © MapTiler © OpenStreetMap contributors

This bulletin contains public information and can be forwarded to any other road users who may be affected. Every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, but no liability can be accepted for any changes or errors.
Road names are taken from the National Street Gazetteer, which can be viewed on one.network, with alternative names given where known.

For details of roadworks, please see One.Network

Streetworks West Central Team

03000 418181 (9am - 5pm Monday-Friday)
03000 419191 (all other times)

SENT ON BEHALF OF MAIDSTONE BOROUGH COUNCIL - GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS IN RELATION TO THE NETFLIX'S DRAMA ADOLESCENCE

01

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MAIDSTONE BOROUGH COUNCIL:-

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS IN RELATION TO THE NETFLIX'S DRAMA ADOLESCENCE:-

The Netflix mini series, Adolescence, has highlighted, perhaps for the first time to many, the growing concerns around Incels and the wider threat to young men online. There are a growing number of cases documented of young people being targeted in the online space and through gaming platforms. It is a common misconception that this only occurs in the dark Web, with mainstream platforms like Discord and games like Roblox and others being used to directly target young people online. Influencers that use hate speech to create harmful narratives, like Andrew Tate and Tommy Robinson, have incredible reach in the online space and we need a collective, community level, response to counter their harmful messages. We have an opportunity to use this new curiosity to increase awareness and help parents have some difficult but necessary conversations with their children. The attached, created in response to the program, provides a guide to parents about the threat and will help them start conversations with their children. Please feel free to circulate this to your distribution lists and social media platforms. We need to maximise the opportunity the Netflix drama's harrowing message provides to keep our children and young people safe. Further information is also provided by the Kent and Medway Prevent Team via https://www.kscmp.org.uk/procedures/prevent




SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- KENT FRAUD ALERTS - 01/04/25

01

April 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- COURIER FRAUD ALERT

25

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Courier Fraud Alert!


There has been an increase in Courier Fraud in your local area!

What is Courier Fraud?

Courier Fraud occurs when a criminal contacts a victim by telephone, purporting to be a police officer or bank official. To substantiate this claim, the caller might be able to confirm some basic details about the victim such as their full name and address. They claim there is an issue with your bank account, they have someone in custody or request your assistance with an ongoing bank or Police investigation. The ultimate aim of this call is to convince you into parting with your money either in person, online, via the post office or a money service bureau or in a bank. They may even ask you to buy high value goods, foreign currency or gift cards such as Amazon, iTunes etc.

The caller may also offer a telephone number for the victim to telephone or ask the victim to call the number on the back of their bank card to check that they are genuine. In these circumstances, either the number offered will not be genuine or, where a genuine number is suggested, the criminal will stay on the line and pass the victim to a different individual.

The caller may also ask you to lie to the bank staff as they may ‘be in on it’ and tell you to say it is for house renovations, a new car or your family members.

Your bank, the police or His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs will never:

· call and ask you for your full PIN or full banking password.

· ask you to lie.

· ask you to withdraw money to hand over to them.

· ask you to purchase high value jewellery, watches or foreign currency.

· ask you to purchase a gift cards or high value goods.

· ask you to transfer money out of your account.

How to protect yourself

· Be extremely wary of unsolicited phone calls from your bank or the police, particularly if they are requesting personal information.

· End the call, call back on a different phone line or on a mobile. If this is not possible, wait 5 minutes before calling back. STOP, HANG UP, CALL 159. 159 is a short-code phone service that connects people safely to their bank’s fraud prevention service or for the police dial ‘101’.

· Speak to friends or family before carrying out any actions.

· Don’t trust claims made by cold callers.

· Never hand over your money, bank cards or make purchases following an unexpected call.

· Never share your PIN, One-time passwords (OTPs) or passwords with anyone.

Please remember this key message: The A B C of Scam Awareness

Never ASSUME – never assume a caller is genuine.

Never BELIEVE – never believe a caller is genuine – scammers may ‘spoof’ official telephone numbers, so the call display may show your banks telephone number, but it does not mean it is a genuine call.

Always CONFIRM – always confirm if the call is genuine – ask for identification (name, branch, employee number etc). Tell the caller you will hang up and call back to confirm. Call the bank on the number shown on their website using a different phone or wait at least 10 minutes. Ask if it was a genuine call.

If you have paid money or shared your bank details, contact your bank’s fraud team straight away.

Fraud Prevention Co-ordinator (WEST)

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:-

25

March 2025


My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Donation of old bicycles for young persons intervention


The Child Centred Policing Team are looking to set up an intervention project with switch youth services in Maidstone town centre where young people can come along and repair old bikes. The intentions of the project are to divert offending, learn new skills, enforce some core values as well as break down barriers with police.

Cycles UK have agreed to support the project and ensure that once fixed, the bicycles are road safe. However we are looking for members of the public to kindly donate bicycles for young people aged between 11-16. If you are in a position to help us then please drop us a message and we will be in touch.

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- YOU CAN HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE STRATEGY OF NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

17

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

Neighbourhood Watch

Message Type Icon

You can help us shape the future strategy of Neighbourhood Watch


As a valued Neighbourhood Watch Supporter, Member or Volunteer, we want to invite you to share your views. Our current 5-Year Strategy comes to an end in December 2025 and we are in the process of developing a new strategy.

We are really interested in your thoughts, views and opinions about Neighbourhood Watch and what you think the movement should focus on over the next 5 years. The survey should take about 10 minutes and will give us a good insight into what you think and want.

By analysing the survey results we will be able to hold more in depth and detailed workshops and consultation events with stakeholders develop a new strategy that is ambitious, relevant and reflective of the views of supporters, members, volunteer, the public and other stakeholders. Please complete the survey so we can hear your voice and views.


Please click here to complete the survey



SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE - SUSPECT CAUGHT WITH STOLEN JEWELLERY

17

March 2025

The police

My community voice kent logoMessage type icon

SUSPECT CAUGHT WITH STOLEN JEWELLERY


Maidstone Town Team attended a report that a vulnerable person had jewellery stolen out of their bag whilst inside a licenced venue in the town centre. The officers took details and conducted fast time CCTV enquiries which enabled them to establish what the suspect looked like. This image was then shared with CCTV operators who were able to quickly locate the suspect.

The suspect was then detained enroute to a brokers and all of the stolen jewellery found on their person. The suspect was arrested, the sentimental items returned to the victim.

This was all thanks to the business reporting on behalf of the victim, golden hour enquiries completed by the officers on scene and most importantly the officers already established relationships with partner agencies.

The suspect spent the night in custody where he was remanded to court by investigating officers.

Please make sure to keep an eye on your personal belongings when out and about, and report any suspicious behaviour to staff or if needed Police.

Neighbourhood alert

Cyber essentials

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE - 17 MARCH 2025

17

March 2025

Holi Celebration - Festival of Colours


Maidstone Town Team have had the honour of being invited to attend the Holi Celebration in Millenium Green Park.  We thoroughly enjoyed seeing everyone and hope everyone had a good time celebrating!

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC - ROAD CLOSURE - GRANGE LANE, SANDLING

17

March 2025

RISE IN DOG THEFT

13

March 2025

RISE IN DOG THEFT

There has been a significant rise in dog thefts within the area. We are advising people to:-

vary their walks (time and location);
ensure their details are up to date on the microchip databases;
keep their gardens secure, maybe consider putting a tracker on the dogs collar.

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE: OVER £40,000 OF ILLEGAL TOBACCO SEIZED

10

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Over £40,000 of Illegal Tobacco Seized


Maidstone Town Team have been gathering intelligence in relation to the sale of illegal or counterfeit cigarettes. Patrols entered the business premises on Upper Stone Street at around 3pm on Friday 28 February to carry out an inspection, alongside partners from Maidstone Borough Council and KCC Trading Standards.

Almost 20kg of illicit tobacco and around 2,000 packets of illegal cigarettes (or 40,000 individual cigarettes) being sold to fund organised crime have been seized for destruction from a shop in Maidstone. The confiscated goods have an estimated recommended retail price of £45,356.

During the search, officers found two hides; one of which required a strong magnet to open. The other was accessed by operating a modified light switch. Alongside the hoard of illicit tobacco products, an air-powered revolver was retrieved, for which the business did not have the appropriate licences to sell.

The work being done by the team and the intelligence provided by members of public have helped fuel our searches and inspections. Helping take funding away from organised crime groups.

Investigating officer, PC Cunningham, said:

‘Counterfeit tobacco and vape products pose serious health risks to users. Their manufacture is not regulated meaning they often contain higher levels of chemicals, as well as ingredients not fit for human consumption, such as animal hair and human faeces.

‘In a wider, detrimental impact to the community, those involved in the production and distribution of such goods are often connected with organised crime groups. These criminals have not only been found to breach employment regulations, but often participate in illegal activities such as human trafficking, child sexual exploitation, and drug smuggling.

‘In choosing to purchase the often cheaper, illicit tobacco and vape products, members of the public are not only compromising their health but are unknowingly funding abhorrent crimes.

‘We urge anyone with information about the sale of these items to contact Kent Police, or report concerns anonymously via Crimestoppers.’

Please see below articles regarding the dangers of using fake/counterfeit nicotine products.

Warning over fake vaping devices after test in Derby reveals one had three 'poisons' | ITV News Central

Counterfeit Nicotine Pouches Pose Rising Health Risks, Warn Experts | Psychreg

LIDSING GARDEN SETTLEMENT SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT

10

March 2025

Paper Copies of the Lidsing Garden Supplementary Planning Document can be obtained from Boxley Parish Council's offices, Beechen Hall, Wildfell Close, Walderslade, Chatham, ME5 9RU.



KCC - Lidsing Road, Lidsing - Temporary Speed Restrictions

06

March 2025

GROVE GREEN WARD BI-ELECTION - 06/03/25

06

March 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MAIDSTONE BOROUGH COUNCIL:- DROP-IN SESSIONS FOR LIDSING GARDEN SETTLEMENT

04

March 2025

Residents and businesses are being invited to Community Voice Sessions on Thursday 6 March between 3pm and 9pm and Monday 10 March between 11am and 1pm. They will be held in Blacksmith’s Barn, Blacksmith’s Court in Bredhurst, ME7 3JU for people to share their ideas to help shape the planned new development in Lidsing.The Lidsing Garden Settlement is an area that has been identified for major new development in the Local Plan Review 2021-2038, which was adopted by Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) in March 2024.Work has started to prepare a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for the site, which will provide further guidance about how the new community should be developed.In addition to these local community sessions, there will be an online opportunity to share any ideas.Further engagement will then take place over the coming months.Some key topics for discussion for Lidsing will include:- Movement and transport in the local area- Creation of new open space and play provision- The new local centre and other key facilities and infrastructureIf you are driving to the event, parking is available at The Bell Pub Restaurant. There is limited parking space available s at Blacksmith's Barn which will be reserved for blue badge holders.Read the full article here: https://news.maidstone.gov.uk/.../everyone-welcome-at...

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- REGISTER YOUR CCTV AND DOORBELL CAMERA

03

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Please register your CCTV and Doorbell Camera


Do you have a security or doorbell camera?

Sign up to our CCTV Registry and help keep your community safe.

It’s free, secure, and quick to register

Your camera footage could be used to support investigations, bringing criminals to justice, and making your area a safer place to live.

Please note:

· We do not have access to your cameras.

· We can only view the location of registered cameras.

· We always contact the camera owner to request footage.

To learn more about this, click here and also see the attached poster.

Please do share this message using the share button below into other social media platforms and with family and friends so they can also benefit from receiving all of the information that you do, from this platform.

many thanks, Ben



SENT ON BEHALF OF MBC:- HAVE YOUR SAY - NEW CONSULTATIONS FOR MARCH 2025

03

March 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- BIKE MARKING

03

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

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Bike Marking


Officers from Maidstone Neighbourhood attended a training session for Kent Youth Trials Club in order to complete Bike Marking with individuals there.

Kent Youth Trials Club Officers offers the opportunity for young people to legally and safely use trial bikes and develop their skills for competitions.

Bike Marking aides the Police in identifying Bikes and helps us return lost or stolen bikes to their rightful owners.

Thank you to Richard and everyone at the club to welcoming us to their session and engaging well in the process.

PC Johnson 14681


Attachments

Bike marking.jpg

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- NUISANCE OFF ROAD VEHICLE NORTH DOWNS

03

March 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Nuisance Off-Road Vehicle - North Downs


Over the last 7 days PC Denney and I have responded to reports of nuisance off-road vehicles, particularly dirt bikes and quad bikes, misusing byways across the North Downs. Mobile patrols have been undertaken to engage with those using the various byways and deter any misuse, and a number of individuals using these routes were spoken with.

Please continue to report any instances of suspected misuse of byways, as enforcement action will be undertaken where appropriate. If a vehicle registration is present on the vehicle, please ensure this is provided. Should there be no vehicle registration, a description of the vehicle is beneficial.

MY COMMUNITY VOICE:- NOMINATE YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH CO-ORDINATOR

27

February 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

Neighbourhood Watch

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Nominate Your Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator for the BBC Make A Difference Awards 2025!


We are excited to announce that the nominations for the BBC Make A Difference Awards 2025 are now officially open! This is your opportunity to celebrate and show appreciation for the incredible individuals and groups who make a positive impact in our communities.

We invite you to nominate your Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator for any of the following categories:

· Community Group

· Fundraiser

· Animal Award

· Green Award

· Active local volunteer

· Young Hero

· Volunteer

· Great Neighbour Award

Please click on the various individual categories to find out more about that award and the criteria and access to the nomination form for that category.

These prestigious awards are a fantastic way to say thank you and recognise the hard work of those who go above and beyond to improve the lives of others. The winners in each category will be selected by a panel of judges, and awards will be presented across each local BBC radio station.

The Make A Difference Awards 2025 were officially launched on Monday, 24th February 2025 on BBC’s One Show. Could one of our amazing Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators be the next local hero to be recognised?

Last year, our very own Cheryl Spruce, Head of Membership and Community Engagement, was nominated and proudly won in her local region in London. Could this be your year to shine?

Nominations are now open and it’s time to put forward those who deserve to be celebrated! If you know someone who fits the bill, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Together, we can help amplify the wonderful work being done in our communities. The link can be found HERE.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to showcasing our wonderful volunteers in their local regions.

Central Support Team | NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK

KCC Road Closure - Urgent Road Closure - Forstal Road, Sandling

27

February 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MAIDSTONE BOROUGH COUNCIL:- WHAT'S ON IN MAIDSTONE

24

February 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC - SGN - Temporary Road Closure - Sandling Lane & Boxley Road, Penenden Heath - 24th February 2025 (Maidstone District)

24

February 2025

SGN - Temporary Road Closure -Sandling Lane & Boxley Road,Penenden Heath -24th February 2025 (Maidstone District)

Due to works planned to be undertaken by SGN, it will be necessary to close part of Sandling Lane & Boxley Road, Penenden Heath, from 24th February 2025 with estimated completion by 12th May 2025.

Sandling Lane will be closed between the junctions of Invicta Park and Boxley Road. To the extent indicated by signs and barriers on site.

Boxley Road will be closed between the junctions of Boxley Close and Sandling Lane. To the extent indicated by signs and barriers on site.

The alternative route for any Sandling Lane through traffic is via Boxley Road, B2012 Lower Boxley Road, B2012 Staceys Street, A229 Royal Engineers Road, A228 Running Horse Roundabout, Sandling Lane and vice versa.

The alternative route for any through traffic is via Boxley Road, The Street, Pilgrims Way, Lidsing Road, Westfield Sole Road, Walderslade Woods, A229 J3 Interchange, A229, Taddington Wood Roundabout, A229 Bluebell Hill Slip Link Bridge, A229 Lord Lees Roundabout, A229 Bluebell Hill Slip Road, A229 Blue Bell Hill, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Cobtree Roundabout, A229 Running Horse Roundabout, Sandling Lane, and vice versa.

Pedestrian access will be maintained during the works.

The closures are required for the safety of the public and workforce to allow gas main replacement works to be carried out, works are undertaken by SGN.

For the most up to date information on these works please visit: https://one.network/?tm=141183521

For information regarding this closure please contact SGN 0800 912 1700, who will be able to assist with the scope of these works.

The Kent County Council Highways Helpline phone number is: 03000 418181

Map

Imagery © 2025 MapTiler | Imagery © 2025 Hexagon | © MapTiler © OpenStreetMap contributors

This bulletin contains public information and can be forwarded to any other road users who may be affected. Every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, but no liability can be accepted for any changes or errors.
Road names are taken from the National Street Gazetteer, which can be viewed on one.network, with alternative names given where known.

For details of roadworks, please see One.Network

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- PILGRIMS WAY, BOXLEY

19

February 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF KCC:- STYLES LANE, BOXLEY - ROAD CLOSURE

17

February 2025

SENT ON BEHALF OF MY COMMUNITY VOICE - COURIER FRAUDS IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

14

February 2025

My Community Voice Kent Logo

The Police

Message Type Icon

Courier Frauds in Tunbridge Wells


We have received more reports of criminals telephoning and impersonating Police, in particular those in Tunbridge Wells .

The criminals are employing various methods from posing as Police Officers from multiple Kent Police Stations stating that they have arrested someone in possession of the victim’s bank card to requesting financial information or asking victims to withdraw cash for a courier to collect as evidence.

If you get any calls like this, STOP, it is a scam.

The Police will NEVER ask you for financial details on the phone or request to collect your card or cash or gold as part of an investigation.

Remember the ABC of Scam Awareness and Never Assume or Believe a call is genuine and always Confirm.

If you get an expected call from someone claiming to be Police or any other organisation, then take their details and end the call. Then call back using a different phone if available. If another phone is not available, then wait 5 minutes and ring a family member or friend to ensure the line has been disconnected and then ring 101. Never call a number they have supplied and never ring 999 whilst still on the call with them. You must always disconnect the call first before ringing 101.

If you think that you may have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

You will also find valuable information from the Home Office at Stop! Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams.

SENT ON BEHALF OF KENT COUNTY COUNCIL:- Temporary Road Closure - Pilgrims Way, Boxley - 10th March 2025 (Maidstone District)

13

February 2025

Kent County Council - Temporary Road Closure -Pilgrims Way,Boxley -10th March 2025 (Maidstone District)

Due to works planned to be undertaken by Kent County Council, it will be necessary to close part of Pilgrims Way, Boxley, from 10th March 2025 with estimated completion by 10th March 2025.

Pilgrims Way, Boxley, will be closed between the Saw Mills and the junction of Harp Farm Road. To the extent indicated by signs and barriers on site.

The alternative route for any through traffic is via The Street, Boxley Road, Sandy Lane, B2012 Lower Boxley Road, B2012 Staceys Street, A229 Royal Engineers Road, A229 Chatham Road, A229 Blue Bell Hill, Bluebell Hill Slip Road, A229 Lord Lees Roundabout, A229 Bluebell Hill Slip Link Bridge, A229 Taddington Wood Roundabout, A229 J3 Interchange A2045 Link, Walderslade Woods, Westfield Sole Road, Lidsing Road and vice versa.

Pedestrian access will be maintained during the works.

The closure is required for the safety of the public and workforce to allow new signage to be installed, works are undertaken by Kent County Council.

For the most up to date information on these works please visit: https://one.network/?tm=141381803

For information regarding this closure please contact Kent County Council, who will be able to assist with the scope of these works.

The Kent County Council Highways Helpline phone number is: 03000 418181