This week I had the opportunity to speak to many of my constituents on local issues. I had a useful meeting with the Vice Chancellor of University of Gloucestershire, Stephen Marston, to discuss the proposed development of the Oxstalls site. We discussed some of the issues, including the relocation of the allotments, the number of houses to go on the Bishop's College site and traffic and parking issues. I'm hopeful we can find a way forward, particularly with regards to parking.
I held a meeting with some GPs from the Church Street surgery, Tewkesbury, to discuss the possibilities, and possible obstacles, regarding 7-day opening and other issues. I will take the points raised, together with the points made by doctors who have written to me on these matters, to the Secretary of State when I meet him in the near future.
I also held my regular meeting with farmers. We continued our discussion about the need to eradicate bovine TB, as well as discussing commodity prices, food labelling and other issues. Again, I will take these issues back to the Secretary of State.
I also had the chance to call in to Prestbury Post Office to discuss the proposed changes to branches in general and then went to the BBC in Bristol to record a television programme, which was broadcast on Sunday.
On Saturday morning I attended the open day coffee morning at Abbeyfield, Tewkesbury to support their efforts. I had the chance to meet some very interesting people, including a former Church Army Captain. I worked on a project for the Church Army before being elected, raising funds to create a hostel and day centre for homeless women in London, so I really do have an interest in this area.
Finally, I called in to see people at Mary P's, a very good children's nursery next to Ashchurch Train Station. The proprietor, Vicky, has just opened another centre at Bishop's Cleeve. I wish her the best of luck.
I will be attending Conservative Party Conference from Sunday to Wednesday, during which I will have the opportunity to meet with various charities and organisations to hear of their ambitions and current campaigns for the upcoming year.