Simon McDougall

Full Steam ahead for the General Election

simonmcdougall — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:57:30 +0000

Now the County Council elections are behind us my next big milestone is the General Election. I was the candidate in the 2005 election in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton and was successfully re-selected in December 2006 as the Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the next General Election. As well as carrying out my duties as a local councillor I will now be knocking on doors regularly throughout the constituency as well as challenging the 2 established parties on a range of issues.

Unlike the other main parties the Liberal Democrats were visible at the door canvassing and leafleting regularly. The anger out there over MPs expenses was very evident. I would say at an educated guess that 1in3 doors I knocked wanted to raise the issue with me. I was able to defend my own position as a local councillor on the basis that whilst I claim my basic and responsibility allowances I have not for some years claimed for petrol expenses or running costs towards my car. That message went down well with local electors who realised I was in politics to serve the community.

Whilst I aspire to be elected to Westminster I have no intention of joining the gravy train that currently exists. In my view they have got away with it for too long and in many cases especially on claiming for mortgages that do not exist I believe they should be prosecuted for fraud. Our own MP Nick Gibb has this week published his expenses in the Bognor Regis Observer. It will be interesting to see what reaction there is in next weeks letter page.

The Liberal Democrats have taken a strong robust stance on this pushing for the whole system to be shaken up from top to bottom. Nick Clegg has published a timetable for change which could be achieved within 100 days and has a launched a national campaign on this issue. Further details can be found at . Why not take a look and join our campaign for a renewed political system.

www.takebackpower.org

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

simonmcdougall — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:24:25 +0000

As many of you will know I was successfully re-elected to West Sussex County Council on June 4th. I would like to thank all of you who voted for me and help me increase my majority within the County Division. The election for the Liberal Democrats was a watershed in so-far that we gained seats 5 in total across the County against a national tide that see the Conservatives do well across the country. The biggest win for us locally was the outstanding win for Paul Wells who took the Conservative safe seat of Bognor Regis West and Aldwick.

Clearly our message on ASDA, Chalcraf Lane and Regeneration was well received by local residents.

LET US STOP THEM WRECKING BERSTED

simonmcdougall — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:16:00 +0000

The Chalcraft Lane area is under threat of development. It is proposed to build 2,500 houses to meet the government targets of housing in the South East. I am totally opposed to development on this site and have been working alongside our local MP on a cross party basis to try and halt development of this site. I sincerely believe this issue is far more important than political point scoring and is a fight our community cannot afford to lose.

This development is a step too far and will damage the nature of Bersted and its community forever. The main reasons I am opposed to the development are:

· THE ROAD NEWORK CANNOT COPE

· THE VIABILITY OF THE SITE IS QUESTIONABLE

· THERE IS NO MAIN EMPLOYER IN PLACE TO BRING IN NEW JOBS

· THE SITE IS PRONE TO GROUNDWATER FLOODING

· THE VIEWS ARE PANORAMIC AND THE LAST OF THEIR KIND IN THE AREA

· THEY ARE NOT ADDRESSING THE INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIT WE ALREADY HAVE

· THIS SITE WILL NOT BENEFIT BOGNOR REGIS REGENERATION

· NO IMPROVEMENT TO RAIL TRAVEL

ASDA THE TORIES BIG OWN GOAL

simonmcdougall — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:14:19 +0000

I was particularly disappointed when the Conservative controlled Arun District Council turned down the planning application for a new ASDA store which would of created 500 new jobs in the town. I supported the application to go ahead and led a vigorous fight in the Council chamber to ensure that local residents views were acted upon.You have seriously been let down by the Tories. The nearest stores we have are in Havant and Brighton and I am certain this would have attracted new visitors to the Town area and helped the local economy. This short sighted attitude will do nothing to help the local economy out of recession.

County Council Elections June 4th Simon’s Up for the Fight

simonmcdougall — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:13:19 +0000

With 27 days to go the the West Sussex County Council elections I have never been more up for a fight. This will no doubt be the biggest election challenge in my 18 years as a councillor. With Tory fotunes on the rise they are clearly scenting blood locally depsite the fact the word on the ground is local people are fed up with the Tory controlled District and County Councils. I will be keeping you posted here on my activity during the campaign and any breaking news during this period too.

Labour are clearly out of the race having finished a poor 5th in a local by election 5 weeks ago with less than 5% of the vote. The BNP and UKIP will no doubt declare as the elections are on the same day as the european Elections. But locally here in Bersted the contest will be between me and the Conservatives. I will be making sure that people are reminded of the most recent decisions they have made which are so unpopular with local residents.

THEY SAID NO TO ASDA
THEY WANT TO INCREASE COUNCILLOR ALLOWANCES
THEY WILL NOT LISTEN ON REGENERATION
THEY WANT TO PUT 2,500 HOUSES ON CHALCRAFT LANE
COUNTY COUNCIL HAS INCREASED COUNCIL TAX BY 120% plus IN THE LAST 12 YEARS

CHALCRAFT LANE IS ABOVE POLITICS SIMON MCDOUGALL AND LOCAL CONSERVATIVE MP NICK GIBB JOIN FORCES TO CHALLENGE 2,500 HOUSE DEVELOPMENT

simonmcdougall — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:05:37 +0000

LiberalDemocrat County and District Councillor Simon McDougall has joined forces with Local Conservative Member of Parliament Nick Gibb and other local councillors across the political spectrum to fight against development of 2,500 houses at Chalcraft lane. In a move that is unprecedented in this area they have agreed to fight the development on a non political basis so the community of Bersted has a very powerful voice working for them. Simon McDougall said” I am delighted to be working with Nick on this issue as I have done over the proposals for St Richard’s Hospital. Nick has called in the past for the end of yahboo politics and I have long held the belief that the Community benefits when politicians work together across the political divide. This issue is far more important than politics as the character of the whole area could be changed forever. This is a fight we can not afford to lose otherwise the begining of Bogchester will start. Our road network is not capable of taking this development and the site itself is prone to groundwater flooding during the winter months.

The infrastructure needs for such a development are massive. New schools,doctor surgeries,dental surgeries along with major road development are the tip of the iceberg to make such a large scale development sustainable in the long term. The new Community College being built is only capable of holding a maximum of 1800 pupils. Despite me raising the issue of this development during the planning stages of the School my concerns fell on deaf ears. What’s really needed before more development is jobs for the long term and an A259 and A27 that can cope with the increase in traffic to cope with development of this site and housing proposals in Chichester. Development on this scale also highlights the need to keep St Richard’s hospital running at full capacity.

Conservatives Vote for Council Allownce Increase

simonmcdougall — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:02:22 +0000

Local Lib Dem councillor Simon McDougall has today criticised Conservative Councillors on Arun District Council of putting themselves before local residents. During the recent budget debate Simon McDougall put forward a proposal to freeze Councillors allowances for the coming financial year in recognition of the severe financial crisis that the British economy is in. Cllr McDougall said” I made the proposal after we had agreed to freeze allowances on West Sussex County Council and because in all conscience I could not accept an increase in my allowances when local residents are having such a hard time during the recession. A major part of our role is service to the community and 30% of our time is not paid to councillors in recognition of that fact. However I believe in the current circumstances we should be giving more of that time freely to meet the challenges head on we are facing our community .

Simon’s Pressure Secures YOUTH WING Funding

simonmcdougall — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:29:16 +0000

Bognor Regis Community College will benefit from a £1.5m new youth wing thanks to lottery funding on its new campus. It took Simon McDougall to highlight the fact that this vital building was absent from the original proposals. It was Simon who put pressure on Tory-controlled West Sussex County Council to take action. He was very much the lone voice in the community calling for funding for this vital building. The Youth wing has an average attendance of 600 plus youths per month and on a Friday evening this can be as high as 130 Youths in one evening. I have been personally involved in youth matters for several years as a Management Committee Chairman and have seen at first hand the excellent work done by the Youth Service on a shoestring budget. The funding for this building will ensure a state of the art Youth Centre will be built on site by the Arena. With the high levels of deprivation in the area I am particularly pleased that my voice was heard and common sense prevailed.

NOWS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR VIEWS KNOWN ON CHALCRAFT LANE

simonmcdougall — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:13:02 +0000

Residents in Bersted,Ford and the 5 villages are facing the possibility of a 2,500 house development in their area. This is the result of land searches done by Conservative controlled Arun District Council in order to meet the 11,500 houses being forced on the District by the Labour government. The Area in question for Bersted is Chalcraft lane and the fields surrounding it in Bersted and Pagham.

These proposals are due to go out for public consultation in Mid February until the end of March. There will be many ways for residents to make their views known with public exhibitions. Public meetings, stakeholders meetings and surveys both online and paper versions. County Councillor Simon McDougall said” I would urge all residents to make their views known about development in this area during the consultation period. The future of Bersted is at stake and it is vital you have your say on whether you want development or not. This is your opportunity to voice against development or look at ways on how proposals can best be developed for the long term interests of Bersted resident’s.”

The proposals will have a major impact on the local road infrastructure and it is questionable at this stage that the developers are going to be able to fund measures to improve the network. The government is dragging its heels in bringing forward much needed flyovers on the A27 which must be done before any development is to go ahead. The New Relief Road still to be built is only a 50 mph single carriageway and studies show this to be working at full capacity before 2026. This will almost certainly need to be dual carriageway and questions remain where the money to pay for it all is? The site itself is known to have major ground water problems, whilst not in the flood plain this area is known to saturate in winter and nobody is coming forward with solutions on how this will be overcome. Make sure Arun knows your views

LIB DEM PARLIAMENTARY SPOKEMAN MEETS NICK CEGG

simonmcdougall — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:02:25 +0000

At their recent one day conference in London held at the London School of Economics Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesman Simon McDougall had the opportunity to talk to Nick Clegg the Leader of the Liberal Democrats. The conference theme was Social Mobility and this gave Mr McDougall the opportunity to raise issues with the party leader about the levels of deprivation and fuel poverty within Bognor Regis and Littlehampton. He also mentioned to Mr Clegg the impact the recession is having on local residents. Mr McDougall said “The more I talk to local people the more they are telling me how worried they are for the future. Many fear losing their jobs and the risk of home repossessions. With rising bills and the failure of many high street firms and the dire trouble of the banks the recession is having a real impact in our area. I took the opportunity to tell Nick just what was happening in our area especially on the effect of low income families.” The Conference saw the launch of the independent report on Social Mobility commissioned by the Liberal Democrats and Chaired by Martin Narey Chief Executive of Barnardos and former Director General of the Prison Service. Mr McDougall said “Unlike the labour government who have just brought back Alan Milburn to head up a government taskforce the Liberal Democrats have done the work and have policies form this that will radically change the way service could be provided in the future. Every child deserves the best start in life they can get it is morally wrong that the live chances of a child is linked to the circumstances they are born into. In some areas of out Towns residents can expect to live up to 13 years less than neighbouring communities. This is a sad reflection on the Labour government and the Conservative controlled councils in our area who have constantly failed to deliver on deprivation over many years”.

Tax cuts must be lasting – says Simon McDougall

simonmcdougall — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:27:12 +0000

Liberal Democrats in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton have called for income tax cuts to help struggling families weather the recession.

Speaking to a meeting of members over the weekend, Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate said that people in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton have endured a year of rocketting fuel, transport and food prices and many were still out of pocket following the government’s decision to double the starting rate of income tax.

“On Monday 24th November, the Chancellor presents his Prebudget Report to Parliament,” said Simon McDougall. “Liberal Democrats will be pressing for permanent tax cuts for people on low and middle incomes. We will be looking for radical changes in the tax system which lock in lower rates of income tax for good.

“To make these tax cuts lasting, they have to be funded. That means shifting the tax burden onto pollution and ending the tax perks and loopholes enjoyed by the highest earners.

“We are worried that the Government will simply introduce temporary tax cuts, paid for by borrowing, which will disappear once we start to come out of recession.

“Now is the time for a genuine and radical change to the tax system. Liberal Democrats will be pressing for that and, having spoken to many residents of Bognor Regis and Littlehampton, I know it is what people here want.

“We believe, however, that an area where borrowing should be allowed is investment in new buildings and facilities that are needed. I am very keen to see people’s homes properly insulated and more affordable homes built for people who need them.

“As well as boosting jobs and the economy, it will help to save money in the future.”

Anger at Southern Trains inflation busting fares increase

simonmcdougall — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:24:56 +0000

Liberal Democrats in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton have demanded that SouthernTrains abandons its plans to impose a 6% in the price of regulated fares, season tickets and saver tickets.

The increase in ticket prices not regulated by the government is to be an even steeper 6%.

The announcement of the inflation-busting fares hike on 21st November was met with an angry response by Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Simon McDougall.

“Train passengers living in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton are being hit for six by Southern Trains said Simon McDougall “At a time when people are struggling with the recession, this train company is adding to people’s difficulties and is stinging passengers for more cash.

“These rises could make the recession worse in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton and could lead to more congestion and pollution as people abandon public transport for their car instead.

“I am calling on the government to step in and use the power they have over regulated fares to impose a freeze on ticket prices for a year. This could be paid for from within the Government’s road-widening budget.

“Just as the Government stepped in to freeze fuel duty for motorists because of the recession, they should change their mind and stop these price increases going ahead.

“Rail passengers will rightly feel that they are being taken for a ride by Southern trains. They have every right to feel angry with this price hike and with the Government for letting it happen.”

The Government has agreed that the ticket price increases can come into effect on 2nd Janury 2009.

CLEGGY SO INSPIRATIONAL

simonmcdougall — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 11:52:25 +0000

Well another conference over what a fantastic week. But as ever the best was saved for last. Nick’s speech was the best I have ever seen from a Liberal Democrat and Liberal leader in my lifetime. He hit all of the right notes attacking the Tories for no economic policy and basically no substance at all. Well as for labour he is right the only party who can tackle social justice now is the Lib Dems.

With rising shopping bills,fuel bills and the threat to re-possesions its getting like the old Tory government. As a country we are sleep walking into a another Tory nightmare. I will be rising to Nick’s 1 Million door challenge meeting as many of you as possible on the door step and presenting our Make it Happen policies. We have a good tax cutting message that will help those on low and middle income. But also this is an agenda that any self respecting socialist can sign up to as well as those who are fed up and have not voted in a long time. Go ahead Cleggy Make it Happen

CREDIT CRUNCH IS IT HURTING YOU?

simonmcdougall — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:44:12 +0000

The more people I am speaking to the worse it seems to get. I would love to know fron people what problems they are suffering from because of the credit crunch eg rising bills,repossesion,no pay rise,redundacy etc to name but a few.

IF THIS IS HAPPENING UNDER LABOUR I DREAD TO THINK WHAT IT WOULD BE UNDER THE TORIES

Remember thier last disgraced government? No? well let me remind you just how bad it was
2 POLL TAX
3 RECORD LEVEL OF INTEREST RATES
4 RECORD NUMBER OF BANKRUPCIES
5 RECORD NUMBER OF HOUSE REPOSSESTIONS
6 PRIVATISATION OF NATIONAL UTILLITIES
7 BLACK WEDNESDAY
8 TWO TIER HEALTH SERVICE
9 RECORD NUMBERS ON HOSPITAL WAITING LISTS
10 SLEASE RIDDEN GOVERNMENT
11 ARMS TO IRAQ
12 3 MILLION UNEMPLOYED

Look at my post on Make It Happen or visit the Make it Happen appreciation Society and give me your views on whether the Liberal Democrats have the agenda to take things forward.

MAKE IT HAPPEN NICK!!

simonmcdougall — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:38:42 +0000

I welcome the launch of the Liberal
Democrats’ vision for Britain by Party Leader Nick Clegg MP. Called ‘Make
it Happen’, the paper will be debated at the party’s conference in
Bournemouth in September.

In their vision for the country the Liberal Democrats say:

They will cut taxes for ordinary families;

If your local hospital can’t see you on time, they will pay for treatment
elsewhere;

They will switch taxes from people to pollution - so it pays to go green;

To improve standards in education, they will fund extra help for those who
need it most;

They will put Britain at the heart of Europe to make us a force for good
in the world;

They will stop ID cards so we can keep control of our privacy;

They will change the voting system so everyone’s voice counts;

They will bring communities together with local people in charge;

They will give communities a say in how offenders pay for their crimes;

These are exciting policies for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton and for Britain. Local people
tell me they are fed up with rising prices, unfair taxes, the waste of
money on the ID card scheme and a Labour government that just doesn’t seem
to care., I’m backing Nick Clegg’s manifesto. It sets out how the Liberal Democrats will
run Britain. No-one in Bognor Regis and Littlehamptonhas escaped the rising cost of food and fuel. The credit crunch is biting hard and local people are feeling the pinch. Now our party
leader Nick Clegg has set out how the Lib Dems want to help ordinary
people by cutting taxes on those on low and middle incomes. Thousands of
people in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton would benefit from this too.

‘Make it Happen’ is available online at: http://www.libdems.org.uk/

KNIFE CRIME FEAR

simonmcdougall — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:24:32 +0000

As a parent of a 20 year old I have to admit it was with some relief that I read a report from the police in Bognor Regis that they found no knives on young people who were out on a Saturday evening. I understand that this was a random check on many young people in the area. In my view such checks should be in use during the weekend on a random basis.

I can not be the only parent out there who has the same fears when they hear the news that some other poor youngster has been innocently stabbed. In my book a knife is every bit as dangerous as a gun and sentencing and punishment should reflect that. I have to say that this is a personal opinion and may not represent Liberal Democrat policy.

WILL THEY EVER BUILD?

simonmcdougall — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:45:57 +0000

Well the credit crunch has well and truly stooped the Construction industry in their tracks. Recent job cuts at Berekley Homes,barrats and Persimmons have made the likelyhood of Policy Site 6 being bulit or the Relief Road in the near future as zilch. However the discovery of a Roman skeleton on the construction site in the past 3 weeks will certainly give them cause for concern but is it a showstopper?

More worringly St Modwen continue towards their 2nd round of consultation with so many questions still unanswered.

WILL THEY CLOSE THE PROMENADE?
WILL THE LIBARY BE MOVED?
WHAT IS THE FINAL DESIGN OF THE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE?
WILL IT BE BETTER THAN OUR CURRENT THEATRE PROVISION?
WILL THEY MAINTAIN THE THEATRE WHEN BUILDING THE NEW ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE?
WILL THEY GET RID OF THE HIDEOUS TOWER AT FITZLEET?

All these questions and so many more. The biggest question of the lot though is will the banks lend the money in the present climate?

Promise of jam tomorrow is not enough

simonmcdougall — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:34:45 +0000

Liberal Democrats in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton have attacked Government offers to compensate low income earners losing out under tax changes as “vague promises of jam tomorrow”.

The doubling of the 10p income tax starter rate was announced last year but was put into operation at the start of April after Labour MPs voted for it in March. Since then, Labour MPs have suffered a backlash from low income people whose tax rates were doubled by Gordon Brown.

“Thousands of residents of Bognor Regis and Littlehampton have been hit hard by Labour’s decision to double the 10p income tax starter rate,” said Simon McDougall Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate “Labour MPs, having only just voted to put this tax rise into operation, suddenly started shouting about how terrible it was.

“It is disappointing that they have caved in and agreed to back the Government’s last minute offer of vague promises of compensation. All that is on offer is jam tomorrow. There are no details of how the compensation scheme will work.

“Having previously been told there was no money in the kitty to reverse the tax rise, the Government has failed to explain how they will pay for the compensation scheme.

“And as is so often the case with this government, we should believe it when it happens. In the meantime, those on low incomes in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton continue to lose out whilst Gordon Brown’s tax rises bite into pay packets and pensions.

“It is staggering that in the same week as vague concessions for some of the lowest paid people in the country were dragged out of the Government, Gordon Brown’s door to Downing Street was wide open for bankers to visit him and successfully argue for £50 billion bailout from the taxpayer to keep the banking system afloat.

“There is something seriously wrong when a Labour Government turns its back on ordinary people. We have 4 Council wards in multiple deprivation and are amongst the lowest earners in West Sussex ,with rising fuel bills, council tax bills and below inflation pay rises this is another hammer blow local people can ill afford. ”

ST RICHARD’S DOWNGRADE MAKES IT A GLORIFIED SATELITE CENTRE

simonmcdougall — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:31:12 +0000

Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton Simon McDougall has slammed the recommendations for St Richard’s Hospital for ignoring public opinion and turning the hospital into a glorified satellite centre for Worthing. Commenting on the proposals Mr McDougall said” Local residents need to wake up to the reality of these proposals and what they mean to those who are pregnant, serious injured, seriously ill or have children with long term health problems. They will in the longer term need to go to either Worthing or Portsmouth for emergency treatment. This situation is unacceptable and will undoubtedly put lives at risk”

The proposals to make Worthing the only major general hospital in west Sussex are due to be ratified by the PCT on Wednesday 4^th June. Mr McDougall went on to say “ With a growing population and a totally ineffective road network the revelation that blue light times were not a material consideration in the final decision is in my view bordering on negligence. No matter what way these proposals are window dressed they can not get away from the fact that journey times will be longer and potentially lives will be put at risk. The A27 is not likely to see any improvements in the near future and anybody with a knowledge of local geography can tell the PCT these services will not work unless the A27 and the A259 are upgraded to meet the demands of the new service provision”.

YOUTH WING PROVISION NEEDED NOW

simonmcdougall — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:28:35 +0000

Following the stakeholders meeting held at BRCC the future provision of Youth services at the school has fallen under the microscope. Concern was raised at the previous meeting 6 months ago by County Councillor Simon McDougall as to the future arrangements when it became clear that the current building used by the service is earmarked for demolition this summer as part of the set up works for the new BRCC building due to start in October this year.

Commenting on the situation Cllr McDougall said” I have had several meetings with County officer’s and local Youth Workers to provide a temporary arrangement and look at a long term arrangement for the future provision of the Youth Wing. I have also written to the cabinet member for Children and young people services outlining my concerns. I was absolutely amazed to go to this meeting to find we are facing a funding shortfall as well as no where near guaranteeing that a temporary solution is in place.”

It is estimated that a multi-purpose building that will house Youth and early years provision would cost in the region of £750,000 to provide onsite. The situation is not clear if it is lack of government funding that has lead to the shortfall or lack of available funds at the County Council. The County Council at the moment has identified potential funding to the tune of £350,000.

Cllr McDougall said “The community was told that this project would lead to an all life learning process. I take that to mean extended school provision facilities as well as early learning year’s provision and other community use. I am deeply concerned that the County Council is taking its time to make temporary and secure long term provision for both Youth and early years learning. The Youth wing has an average attendance of 600 plus youths per month and on a Friday evening this can be as high as 130 Youths in one evening. They are clearly enjoying the environment provided for them and not roaming the streets and drawing attention to the police. This is a success and needs to continue. There is also a young mother’s group that meets weekly to address their needs and the excellent Bridge project which deals with young people on the verge of exclusion is also housed within the Youth Wing Building. Pevensey is one of the most deprived wards in West Sussex and this situation which could be avoided does not help to the continuation of these services that go along way to addressing deprivation issues.

WHY NOT JOIN NICK CLEGGS REVOLUTION

simonmcdougall — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:07:14 +0000

Do you live in Bersted or Pevensey Wards have an hour a month to spare and share the beliefs and aspirations of the Liberal Democrats?

Have you ever thought of joining or helping the Lib Dems I am constantly looking for new members to join my team and play their part in the local community. We regularly put out focus leaflets to the local community along with direct mailings to electors and would appreciate any help or time maybe able to offer. We have a very active social section where we combine fundraising with social events its a good way to meet other local councillors and Lib Dem activists in a friendly and warm social environment.

If you would like to know more about helping the Lib Dems please contact me on the details on this site and I will be more than happy to discuss ways of helping further.

Clegg Fantastic at Liverpool

simonmcdougall — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:31:59 +0000

Given the background to conference last weekend in Liverpool I think Cleggy played an absolute blinder. Europe earlier in the week looked like plunging the party into an internal crisis but I can honestly say the subject was hardly mentioned in the bars. I believe last weekend was a defining moment in our parties history and will be known as the time we grew up as a political party.

I e-mailed Nick on Monday to congratulate him on what I thought was 2 superb speeches. His main speech was the best I have ever seen from a Liberal Democrat leader and he really looked like a future Prime Minister. His views and general policy direction are radical and his willingness to take the fight to both Labour and the Conservatives was truly inspiring.

REGENERATION PROPOSAL LETS DOWN BOGNOR RESIDENTS

simonmcdougall — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:19:11 +0000

I am extremely concerned about the proposals being put forward by St Modwen for regeneration of Bognor Regis. The headlinein the Bognor observer was “WOW! What a proposal” my response was “what a disaster”. When St Modwen was selected as the preferred developer some 16 months ago they showed a vision that thought outside the box, that would kick start a better Bognor. I have to say the recent consultation was very disappointing.

I said 16 months ago that this has the opportunity to be the real deal and have with the exception of the future of theatre provision in the Town supported this project whole-heartily. I am 41 years old and have lived here all of my life and have been waiting for the big bang all of this time. Bognor Regis is full of potential if only it was developed right. Our two prime assets, the Regis centre site and Hothampton, both are under threat with no real kick start for the Town. The latest proposals simply do not add anything to the Town apart from a bowling alley and a new health centre. Both badly needed but they will not regenerate the Town alone. A multi purpose entertainment centre sounds great until you look into the real impact, this will sound the death knell for the picture dome and without any guarantee that the new centre will be better than the Hotham Arts Centre. As for the tower at Fitzleet one is tempted to invite Prince Charles to comment, monstrosity and carbuncle do not seem to cover this issue.

I was particularly disappointed with Cllr Fyfe, at the recent Town Council meeting; he seemed to want a political fight. Whilst I would happily debate Lib Dem national policy with him on a public platform this was neither the time nor the place. This is the type of behaviour we have come to expect from Westminster politicians not local elected councillors, who are here to represent the interests of the Town. We have one opportunity to get this right, I am happy to work with anyone regardless of political views to get it right. I want to see a development constructed on terms that suit Bognor Regis residents not the fat profits of developers.

If this is truly consultation St Modwen will take on board the wide range of criticism coming from local residents and come back with far reaching proposals that reflect the views of local people. It is also worth pointing out that no local member democratically elected to represent Bognor Regis has had any input into these proposals before the public were asked. When final decisions are made it will be Councillors outside of the town holding the sway and influence. By the time it comes to planning it will be too late as the application has to be judged against planning law and merits. I would urge all residents of Bognor Regis make your view known now before it’s too late to influence change.

Why I want to speak-up for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton

Mark Foster — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:33:41 +0000

In 2005 as our General election candidate I increased the LibDem vote locally by 4.7% and I seriously believe that this will further increase next time. I am constantly asked what motivates me to be in the public eye all of the time. Well the answer is simple I believe our 2 Towns deserve better and are crying out for a new direction. Like many of you I have lived my entire life in this area and care deeply about its many varied communities and I get angry when I see the policies of the Conservatives locally and Labour nationally consistently fail the resident’s of this area. I get even more fiercely defensive of our area when they are the butt of jokes by many comedians. Our area has failed to thrive in my lifetime and realise its full potential it has consistently been let down by Conservatives for as long as anyone can remember. If I was paid £5 for every time someone said to me the Conservatives always win here and always will I would be a very rich man now. So why am I prepared to stick my neck on the line time after time well that’s simple too OUR TOWNS’ AND COUNTRY DESERVE BETTER AND ITS TIME FOR A SEA-CHANGE IN NATIONAL POLITICS!During our recent leadership election campaign I supported Nick Clegg and I am absolutely ecstatic that he is now our leader. Nick and I share the same vision for our country we are the same age both have passion and care deeply about the state of politics in our country today and we are both essentially Liberal to the core.

Britain is a Liberal Country and so are the Towns of Bognor Regis and Littlehampton as the only prospective candidate who can challenge the Conservative arrogance in this area it falls upon me to take the Liberal Democrat message to every corner of our community. Over the next few months I will be doing that highlighting here and on our local party website my position on many crucial local issues and my vision for the future of Bognor Regis and Littlehampton. I will be taking to the streets campaigning on the big issues but also talking to as many of you as possible on the doorstep I want to give you a serious alternative to another Conservative MP I want to make your MESSAGE FOR THE FUTURE MY MESSAGE I WANT TO DELIVER THAT SEA CHANGE ALTERNATIVE AND TAKE THIS AREA BY STORM!

WILL PARISH COUNCIL RISE TO THE CHALLENGE?

simonmcdougall — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 10:46:01 +0000

In the past on site 6 Bersted Parish Council under my chairmanship took developers and Arun District Head on to argue the case against development on this site. We succesfully applied to the high court to get this site quashed and removed from the local plan only to be let down by the Labour Secretary of State who finally gave planning permission for the site.

My concern is the the New Parish Council has not yet woken up to the danger that lies ahead. I constantly warned that if planning permission for site 6 was granted then all greenfields in Bersted would be at risk of development. With potential allocations within the North West Bersted area they need to have their eye on the ball at all times. Sadly when it came to setting a budget for next year only a small amount was allocated for professional fees to look into these matters. There now seems to be a hardcore who seem to want to cut costs to the taxpayer even though this can be measured in pence to the individual than looking ahead and meet the challenges that will shape the community for decades to come. I can only hope in the long term they will rise to the challenge again.

BIG CHALLENGES FOR BERSTED IN 2008

simonmcdougall — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 10:30:06 +0000

During the next few months construction work will begin on Policy Site 6 with the planning applications for both elements now live and available for public comment. A decision will be made by the Development Control committee on the 23rd Jan and fortunately I am a member of the committee. I am also part of the Site 6 Advisory Group which is able to make pre application comments and will aslo make sure that the development is done to the highest standards. As I said when re-elected last year my main role now is to see that developers deliver on their infrastructure proposals and make sure the relief road is built as early as possible.

I still remained concerned about possible flooding to the exsisting houses in Chichester Road and North Bersted Street and have made sure the Advisory Group has met with Southern Water to ensure that they upgrade the current sewage system to modern day standards. They came to see us in December and are due to come back to us in January with an update on proposals and to answer the many technical questions that I and others raised.

Bersted Parish Council has now submitted an outline management plan for the community centre on the site 6 estate. This is still at the very early stages but none the less is a very vital clogg for community integration over the next few years. I am still of the opinion that by setting up a trust and delivering the services from the centre on behalf of Bersted Parish Council is the best way ahead. That way we are in a position of influence on what is happening within the community and ideally placed to pick up and deal with any underlying problems.

Looking to the long term future Arun District Council will be moving forwards on the Local Development Framework. This work was put on hold last year due to the inspectors report on the South East Plan where it is proposed that an extra 2,000 houses in Arun have to be accomodated within the plan. However in Bersted we need to be very vigilant as one of the areas of seach puts Chalcraft Lane firmly in the picture for development including over possible fields in Bersted. I am on the LDF sub Committee and hopefully ideally placed to speak up on behalf of local residents. Last Year the figure being muted was 1500 houses this figure could well increase if the Secretary of State accepts the extra 2,000 houses or indeed increases it further. My main concern for this site along with many others is the historic ground water problems in this area. there is a major study being carried out on this at the moment and a strategic flood assesment report is due to the committee in the near future. I will in due course keep residents up to date on these findings once they are availiable to the public.

WELL DONE CLEGGY!

simonmcdougall — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 07:57:32 +0000

Congratulations to Nick Clegg on being elected leader of the Liberal Democrats. His acceptance speech was quite outstanding for a new leader and really went to the heart of the problems facing Britain today. I am particularly pleased that his main area of concern is to tackle social mobility when residents here in Bersted and Bognor Regis and Littlehampton are facing high levels of deprivation on a daily basis.

CABLE IS HE THE BEST LEADER LIB DEMS NEVER HAD?

simonmcdougall — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 12:09:56 +0000

Well I have to admit with poll ratings on 23% in the Guardian last weekend something must be happening. Vince Cable has been superb over Northern Rock,the Queen’s speech and a whole load of other issues. OK to be fair alot of this has played to his main strength on the economy. but his principled stand on not going to the state banquet in honour of the Saudi King has won many friends too.

But hey this week at question time was the best of the lot when he said that in the space of week we had witnessed Gordon brown changing from Stalin to MR BEAN. WELL ONE THINGS FOR SURE THAT COMMENT AND MR BEAN WILL STICK FOR YEARS TO COME. Well done Vince keep up the good work to think a few years younger than Ming and suddenly his age is not any issue

POLICY SITE 6 HAVE YOUR SAY

simonmcdougall — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:59:56 +0000

There are currently 2 planning applications that are live for the Bersted area on the policy site 6 site. If you want to make any comment or look at the drawings please contact Arun District Council or Bersted Parish Council where they will be happy to advise. These applications are very important and represent one of the last chances members of the public will have to influence development on this site. I make no comment as to the merit of these application as i am a member of the Development Control Committee who will ultimately make the final decision.

MAKE PARTY FUNDING FAIR FOR ALL

simonmcdougall — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:53:31 +0000

A weeks along time in politics Harold Wilson once said the last 6 weeks must seem like a lifetime for Gordon Brown. Having got rid of the cash for peerages scandal you would of thought the labour party would of put their own house in order. Not so we now have the remarkable story running of 3rd party donations where a wealthy doner keeps his name out of the spotlight and uses employees and friends to make his donation for him.

Whats more Gordon did not know until last Saturday then tried to leave his deputy Ms harman to shoulder the blame. Not a good move Gord she threw straight back to him. Party political funding in this country stinks and is ripe for misuse. Its time to clear up this mess once and for all. A limit of say £1,000 per year by any one individual and proper funding by the state of political parties should be the starting point. Whilst we are at it why not clean up the whole corrupt system introduce proportional representation in time for the next election and elect the House of Lords by PR and no nominations. This is truly radical and would start to clean up the mess but of cause Gord is too cagey to take up the challenge when he knows the current system still dispproportionately favours Labour.

A TEDDY BEAR STORY

simonmcdougall — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:40:28 +0000

Well we moan about our rights as individuals but at least ours are protected. A teacher from this country in Sudan is disgracefully sentenced to 15 days in prison for allowing her class to name a teddy Mohammed. Well that may well be the name of the Muslim prophet so what you say but out there they are calling for her execution. Its unbelievable lets hope government intervention and common sense prevail and she is relased early and allowed to return home.

I feel sorry for the children she was teaching who no doubt had a more rounded and happy education thanks to her skills and kindness. She went there to help and improve things as a caring individual and ended up a political pawn. Thank god I live in England.

INTERESTING DECISION

simonmcdougall — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:30:21 +0000

Well it would appear for now at least the Tories at county are listening. They have delayed a decision on doing their own thing on devolution until February giving enough time for the current committees to meet and make coment. Personally I think they are paying lip service to local members so that they can say they have consulted before going ahead with their own local committees. I believe that this all part of a hidden agenda to promote Cpounty longer term as a potential unitary authority under a future Tory government.

Local Tories No Idea on Devolution

simonmcdougall — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 11:16:24 +0000

Well the rhetoric behind Cameron’s crusade to bring power back to local people is proving to be just that. Local Tory Councillors at Arun are pushing further powers to the Joint Western Area Committee and allowing all 3 tiers of local government to vote on issues that affect the daily life of local residents. However at West Sussex County Council the Tories have thrown the toys out of the pram and propose to set up their own local committees for just County Councillors to make local decisions at County Level.

JWAC was working well with proper grassroots input to the process and some very lively discussions. However I think the last two were possibly more lively than they can take. Frank open dicussion and the possibility of losing control of the situation clearly does not appeal to them despite all those sitting around the table holding an elected mandate in one form or another. The way forward for local government in this area is supposedly for closer working between the different tiers some hope when Tory councillors can not agree amongst themselves at different tiers.

I find their attitude disappointing and not within the spirit of partnership working. I will be over the next few weeks be making my feelings clear and to both Arun and West Sussex.

Cleggy Outstanding As ballot papers arrive

simonmcdougall — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 10:58:02 +0000

I went to the leadership hustings on Monday evening and Cleggy was superb. We are lucky to have such a high calibre candidate in Nick who is pushing all the right buttons. That evening for me was manic first up I had to pick Lucy up from Worthing station who is part of Nick’s team for the election who had all kinds of leaflets promoting the Clegg campaign and a DVD of the campaign so far which is riveting watching. I then help to set up the stall for members to look at what Nick had to offer.

Next up was a dash back to the station to pick up guess who? Yes you got it Nick himself a fantastic honour unfortunately no time for small chat he was busy on the blackberry answering e-mails hot off an interview for the Independent. Got him safely to the venue which by now was packed and he was straight into tv interviews for the regional programmes the following evening.

Presentation by the candidates was good with Nick being outstanding almost certainly bouyed from my canvassing results earlier in the day which showed him gaining support from Chris Huhne. Nick was a clear winner even in Huhne’s backyard.

Why I’m backing Nick Clegg

simonmcdougall — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:02:32 +0000

I am proud to be a member of the Liberal Democrats who elect their leader on the principle of one member one vote. I also believe in the 2 candidates declared we have potential leaders that are the envy of the other parties. In an age where spin rules these 2 individuals shine in an area of substance that Labour and the Conservatives dare not tread. In crime and the environment the 2 portfolios covered by them they have set the political agenda for the future. I have offered my services to the Nick Clegg team and proud to say was one of the first 200 signatures to sign his nomination papers. Nick shares my passion and vision for the future of British politics. He knows that the British people in general are Liberal by instinct and need an alternative to the cosy consensus of 2 party politics. As he said in his statement when declaring his candidacy for the leadership” We must come together now and make a long-term commitment to British liberalism.We either step up or we will fall back for good. The leadership election gives us a great opportunity.An opportunity to talk – plainly and directly – to the British people. An opportunity to be an outward looking party again. There are millions of people in this country who share our values, but don’t yet give us their votes. These are the people we must be talking to in the weeks ahead. I want us to extend our reach, and broaden our appeal. I want us to take our message to every community, every home, every family”. As an individual I instinctively share his core values and beliefs Nick for me is the future of our party and offers us the best possible chance of making that long awaited break through in British politics. There are millions of people in this country crying out for an alternative voice I believe that Nick will offer that voice, choice and distinctive message that truly will rattle the cage of British politics.

My Tribute to Ming Campbell

simonmcdougall — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 14:55:42 +0000

Like many others in our party I was saddened by the shock resignation of Ming. Whilst I did not support him in the last leadership election I have always admired him as an individual. Ming is a man of great integrity, honesty and passion. As leader of our great party he took over at time when we were going through a turbulent time and has restored confidence within the membership. He has made our party more professional and ready to fight elections in a technology age. His decision to stand down was solely his and with the future of the party in mind. I expect nothing else from a man who is Liberal to the core and passionate about the future of our country.

If anyone is to blame it is the media who did nothing but concentrate on the age of Ming. It is a disgrace in an age where people are living longer working on well past retirement age by choice that this has become the most critical part of his leadership. If he had been from a minority group there would have been complaints galore about discrimination and some of the cartoons in national papers portraying Ming are an insult to not only him but the public at large. More people in the over 60s group vote than any other generation I cannot believe the kind of onslaught that Ming endured has left nothing but a sour taste in their mouths. Many pensioners do more work in the community than any other age group often unpaid or unrecognised. They often fill gaps in the voluntary sector where government fails to meet the need. I often say that a country should be judged by the way it supports its elderly population and in the treatment of Ming and the many unfair policies which unfairly affect citizens as they grow older Britain must rank near the bottom of the league.

Ming led the opposition to the war in Iraq and represented the views of millions it was his incisive questioning that blew the governments argument apart. The nation and the Liberal Democrats owe him a great debt.