Category: News

Adam Chalmers New Chief Executive of East Surrey Council

Adam Chalmers, currently Interim Head of Paid Service for East Surrey Shadow Council and Chief Executive of Elmbridge Borough Council, has been appointed Chief Executive of the new East Surrey Council.

Adam hopes to start the role in September 2026 to prepare for the new council being fully established in April 2027.

The appointment marks an important milestone in Surrey’s local government reorganisation programme, which will see the county’s existing 12 councils replaced by two new unitary councils from April 2027.

Cllr-Steve-Wotton_Leader-East-SurreyCouncillor Steve Wotton, Leader of East Surrey Shadow Council, said: “With more than 20 years of experience in local government, Adam has a strong track record of improving services, supporting communities and delivering value for residents. His leadership, experience and commitment to public service make him the right person to lead East Surrey through this important period of change and beyond.

“We are ambitious for East Surrey and want to deliver excellent services, listen to residents and help our communities thrive. I look forward to continuing to work with Adam to make that ambition a reality.”

Councillor David Lewis, Leader of the Conservative Group on East Surrey Shadow Council said: “I am pleased to support Adam’s appointment. He brings significant local government experience, a proven track record of delivering for residents and a clear commitment to building a successful East Surrey Council. I look forward to working constructively with him as we create a council that delivers high-quality services and strong outcomes for local communities.”

Adam Chalmers East Surrey Council Chief ExecutiveAdam Chalmers said: “It is a privilege to be appointed Chief Executive of East Surrey Council at such an important moment. We have a rare opportunity to shape a new council that builds on the strengths of our existing councils, creating a financially stable organisation that is fit for the future.

“I look forward to continuing to work with councillors, colleagues and our partners to deliver effective services, support our communities and ensure residents remain at the heart of everything we do. Together, we can create a council that people trust and one that makes a lasting difference to the places and communities we serve.”

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East Surrey To Confirm Chief Executive

East Surrey Council Set To Confirm New Chief Executive

Subject to agreement at a full council meeting on 29 July 2026, East Surrey Shadow Council is set to confirm its permanent Chief Executive.

Following a national recruitment campaign and a comprehensive assessment process, the Shadow Authority has selected Adam Chalmers, currently Interim Head of Paid Service for East Surrey and Chief Executive of Elmbridge Borough Council, as its preferred candidate. Adam is also recommended for appointment as Returning Officer for East Surrey Council.

Councillor Steve Wotton, Leader of East Surrey Shadow Council, said: “I am pleased to announce that Adam Chalmers is being recommended as our preferred candidate for Chief Executive of East Surrey Council, subject to formal agreement by Full Council.

“Adam has spent more than 20 years in local government, helping councils improve services, support communities and make the best use of public money for residents.

“He combines a strong track record of delivering results with a genuine commitment to public service, and I believe he is the right person to lead East Surrey Council as we prepare for this exciting new chapter and beyond.

“Together, we are ambitious for East Surrey. We want to create a council that delivers high-quality services, puts residents at the heart of decision-making and helps our communities and local economy thrive.

 “Our goal is to build a council that people can trust, where local voices help shape the future and where decisions are guided by what matters most to residents. I look forward to continuing to work with Adam to make that vision a reality.”

 Councillor David Lewis, Leader of the Conservative Group at East Surrey Shadow Council said: “The creation of East Surrey Council is one of the most significant changes to local government in a generation, and it is important that we have experienced leadership in place. Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong understanding of local government, and I am pleased to support his appointment as we work together to deliver the best outcomes for residents and communities.”

Prior to joining Elmbridge Borough Council as Chief Executive, Adam Chalmers served as Director of Community Services at Horsham District Council and held senior leadership roles

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Epsom & Ewell Council explores future of Hook Road Arena

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council approves strategic priority to explore the future of Hook Road Arena.

At a meeting of the Full Council this week, Epsom & Ewell Borough Councillors approved a recommendation to establish a new strategic priority to assess Hook Road Arena’s suitability for a mixed-use leisure and residential development. The council has commissioned a Best Value Feasibility Study to explore the site’s development potential.

The council has used the Sports England (Active Environments) Consultancy Framework to select the consultant to carry out the study. The final report will be presented back to the Strategy and Resources Committee before 31 March 2027. This work is being funded by the previously agreed Corporate Projects Reserve: however, any subsequent decision to move ahead with development would need to be supported by a robust business case and be subject to approval by the new East Surrey authority.

surrey Epsom EwellCouncillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, said: “It is vital that residents and those who work in Epsom & Ewell have access to high-quality sports and recreation facilities close to where they live and work. Currently, this is not always the case, and some local sports teams must travel outside the borough to train and play, which can make it more difficult for people to take part. As part of their work, the consultant will engage with key stakeholders, including local sports groups, to consider how the site could meet their needs in the future.

We also recognise the need to deliver much-needed housing, including affordable homes

By making this a strategic priority, we can focus on exploring the potential of Hook Road Arena and assess whether a mixed-use development is financially viable. If the site proves viable, this work will provide the evidence needed to develop a robust business case that will inform a recommendation to the new East Surrey Council for consideration in 2027.”

The Hook Road Arena priority is added to the seven strategic priorities agreed by the Council in May 2025, replacing its Four-Year Plan in light of Local Government Reorganisation: Corporate plan and strategies | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council.

 

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Celebrating 20 Years of Mayfield Lavender

Celebrating 20 Years of Mayfield Lavender: Reviving a Historic English Tradition

For centuries, lavender has been woven into the fabric of English history, playing an important role in medicine, fragrance, and local economies. Once synonymous with the Surrey countryside, vast fields of fragrant purple stretched across the region before gradually disappearing as urban development transformed the landscape. Thanks to the vision and dedication of Mayfield Lavender, that historic tradition has not only been preserved but beautifully revived.

This year marks a significant milestone as Mayfield Lavender celebrates 20 years of bringing English lavender back to life. What started as a passionate mission has grown into one of Surrey’s most loved visitor attractions, welcoming thousands of visitors every summer from across the UK and around the world.

From June through to August, the lavender fields burst into a spectacular sea of purple, offering visitors an unforgettable experience filled with colour, fragrance and tranquillity. Families, photographers, nature lovers and returning visitors come together each year to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, creating memories amongst one of England’s most iconic summer landscapes.

Lorna Maye, Mayfield Lavender As owner and farmer Lorna Maye explains:

“This season is particularly special for us as we celebrate 20 years of Mayfield Lavender. What began as a mission to make lavender relevant again has grown into something far greater, bringing both the plant and the area’s historical lavender-growing heritage back to life.”

The story of Mayfield Lavender began with Brendan Maye, whose career in the fragrance industry inspired the revival. During the 1990s and early 2000s, Brendan served as Managing Director of Wella UK’s fine fragrance division. At the time, Wella owned the historic English lavender brand Yardley, giving him a unique appreciation of lavender’s heritage and cultural importance. Recognising that Surrey’s once-famous lavender fields had almost vanished, he set out to restore them.

While Mitcham’s famous lavender fields had gradually disappeared throughout the 20th century, replaced by expanding urban development, Brendan’s vision helped rekindle English lavender cultivation. Today, Mayfield Lavender stands as a living reminder of the area’s rich agricultural history while creating a bright future for sustainable farming.

Sustainability has always been at the heart of everything Mayfield Lavender does. The farm proudly became the first organic lavender farm accredited by the Soil Association, reflecting its long-term commitment to environmentally responsible farming. Organic farming requires dedication and patience, with every weed removed by hand—a never-ending task that ensures the lavender and its essential oils remain free from agricultural chemicals and harmful residues.

This careful approach has also transformed the fields into a thriving haven for wildlife. Visitors will often spot butterflies dancing between the rows of lavender, alongside bumblebees, honey bees, pheasants and even a family of kestrels that has made the fields home for many years. The biodiversity found here is just as impressive as the breathtaking scenery itself.

The local landscape also plays an important role in producing exceptional lavender. The chalky Surrey soil combined with the region’s mild climate creates ideal growing conditions. Mayfield cultivates two varieties of Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender), Folgate and Maillette, together with the hybrid Lavandula x intermedia known as Grosso, each contributing its own distinctive fragrance and character.

What started from a camper van in a field with a gazebo, visitors can now enjoy Mayfield Lavender across two beautiful locations. The original Mayfield Lavender Farm in Banstead is the iconic site renowned for its sweeping purple fields and panoramic views, making it one of the UK’s most photographed lavender destinations.

Meanwhile, Mayfield Lavender Farm in Epsom offers visitors a different but equally enchanting experience. Home to The Secret Lavender Garden and The Glasshouse Café, it provides the perfect place to relax, enjoy seasonal refreshments and immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Mayfield Lavender name.

Twenty years after its journey began, Mayfield Lavender has achieved far more than simply growing lavender. It has revived an important piece of Surrey’s heritage, championed organic farming, created a sanctuary for wildlife and given countless visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature.

As the fields bloom once again this summer, there’s no better time to celebrate two decades of passion, sustainability and dedication. Whether you’re visiting the stunning Banstead fields or exploring The Secret Garden and The Glasshouse Café in Epsom, Mayfield Lavender continues to prove that some traditions are truly worth preserving—and that the beauty of English lavender remains as timeless as ever. To Visit or For More Information On Mayfield Lavender Farm CLICK HERE
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Community Infrastructure Levy funding allocation

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council approves last annual Community Infrastructure Levy funding allocation

 At its meeting on 14 July 2026, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s (EEBC) Strategy and Resources Committee formally approved its last annual funding allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) supporting the delivery of infrastructure projects across the borough over the next few years.

Projects receiving funding are designed to support the health and wellbeing of residents, enhance accessibility and travel safety, and contribute to a healthier, greener borough.

A total of £668,911.65 has been allocated to eight Neighbourhood CIL projects, and £4,293,936 has been allocated to five Strategic CIL funding projects following bids by local community groups and organisations.

Some projects are fully funded, and others have been awarded partial funding.

cllr Neil Dallen Epsom & EwellCouncillor Neil Dallen, Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee, said:

“We are proud to support projects that reflect the priorities of our community and deliver real improvements that residents will see and benefit from in their everyday lives.

Through the careful allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy funding, we are investing in projects that strengthen community facilities, support health and wellbeing, improve accessibility and encourage active and sustainable travel.

“These projects represent a significant investment in the future of Epsom & Ewell and demonstrate our commitment to ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of our community. It is particularly rewarding to see funding directed towards schemes that will deliver lasting benefits for our communities, helping to create vibrant, inclusive and resilient places for current and future generations.”

Neighbourhood CIL funding

Neighbourhood CIL is used for smaller, local projects such as improving road safety, upgrading playgrounds or enhancing community spaces.

Funding has been approved for the following eight projects:

  • Ebbisham Sports and Social Club’s Facility Improvement and Sustainability project – installing new floodlighting in all courts.
  • Poole Road Tennis/Pickleball Courts – new recreational facility for tennis and pickleball, utilising existing tennis courts.
  • St Martin’s School: Key Stage One playground redevelopment – new high-quality interactive play equipment including a play trail and playground markings.
  • New recreational facility for Pickleball and Tennis Courts at Gibraltar Recreation Ground – new modern multi-sport facility incorporating courts for tennis, pickleball and basketball.
  • Scouts: New Tomahawk Range – new outdoor area for games, tents and a Tomahawk Range for use by the wider Epsom & Ewell scouting community.
  • Epsom Beekeepers: Classroom Modernisation – substantial upgrades to the existing building making it more energy-efficient.
  • Glyn Hall improvements – new community building replacing the existing hall.
  • Scout headquarters in Ruxley and West Ewell Ward – final phase of Scouts HQ building redevelopment / refurbishment project.

Strategic CIL funding

Strategic CIL helps fund larger projects that benefit the whole borough, such as school expansions, transport schemes and upgrades to sporting facilities.

Funding has been approved for five projects:

  • Local Cycling Walking and Infrastructure Plan – 10-year plan programme of walking and cycling infrastructure improvements in the borough. CIL funding is required to support the detailed design and construction stages of priority schemes and to unlock external funding, particularly from Active Travel England
  • Green Infrastructure Project – new landscape earth bunding and associated green infrastructure improvements at 10 open space sites across the borough.
  • Footbridge over Hogsmill River – construction of a new accessible footbridge to provide a safe river crossing.
  • Hook Road Arena Community Sports Hub – to provide clubhouse facilities, football pitches, outdoor and covered all-weather netball courts, and other supporting infrastructure.
  • Ewell village public realm Improvements – package of public realm, highway safety, and accessibility improvements within Ewell Village. The project was previously awarded CIL funding in 2024, however since this time, costs have increased significantly across the construction industry, resulting in a shortfall. To address this, Surrey County Council submitted a revised CIL bid to secure additional funding for the project.

More information about the allocation of the CIL, including the process, can be found here from page 31 –(Public Pack)Agenda Document for Strategy and Resources Committee, 14/07/2026 19:00

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Hogsmill River Footbridge Funding Approved

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council approves Community Infrastructure Levy funding for new Hogsmill River footbridge near stepping stones

On 14 July 2026, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s (EEBC) Strategy and Resources Committee approved the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to build a new footbridge near the Chamber Mead Wetlands over Hogsmill River – the footbridge will provide a safe, fully accessible crossing for everyone. This is separate from any future decision on the stepping stones and not an either/or proposition.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) raises funds from developers, recognising that new development creates pressure on local infrastructure. It is spent on the provision, improvement, replacement, operation, or maintenance of local infrastructure.

Cllr Liz FrostCouncillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee commented:

“The Environment Agency, which owns the Hogsmill riverbed and banks, has made the difficult decision to temporarily close the river crossing at the stepping stones, following safety concerns raised by the local community and a reported incident in which someone was injured.

“As an Epsom & Ewell resident, I understand how much the stepping stones mean to the local community. However, we can’t ignore these safety concerns. Councillor Williamson and I, as Vice Chair and Chair of the Environment Committee, are happy to bring interested parties together and facilitate discussions to help achieve the best outcome for the community.

“Separately, I am pleased that Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding has been approved to build a new footbridge that will provide a safe, fully accessible crossing for everyone to enjoy for many years to come – including wheelchair users, cyclists and families with buggies. I would also reiterate that this decision is independent of the stepping stones decision, this is not an either/or situation.

“We are also currently working with partners to make improvements to the area including shifting gravels in the river to try to lower the water level, repairing the path by the Hogsmill River to make it more accessible, and repairing the steps down to the stepping stones.

“We will provide a further update as soon as we’re able.”

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Help Shape New Play Areas in Mole Valley

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is inviting residents to help shape plans for a £3.5 million investment in local playgrounds, designed to deliver modern, inclusive and exciting play spaces for children and families across the district.

The programme, which will be delivered by Proludic, will see improvements made to a number of playground sites, including Ashtead Recreation Ground, Forty Foot Recreation Ground and Kingston Road Recreation Ground in Leatherhead, Lower Road Recreation Ground in Bookham, and Meadowbank in Dorking.

The investment programme will ensure future designs reflect how play areas are used today and what local communities would like to see in the future.

Residents, families, carers and visitors are invited to get involved by completing a short survey by 30 September 2026 and sharing their views on preferred play equipment, themes and additional facilities. A series of in-person engagement events will also take place this summer, giving playground users the opportunity to view proposals and share ideas on how the sites could be improved.

Meadowbank will be the first location where residents can meet the project team, including Arkwood, which is managing the engagement on behalf of MVDC. There will be a full programme of events at Meadowbank on Sunday 19 July during the Family Fun Day 11am-4pm, and the project team will be there in the park, as well as on Tuesday 21 July 3pm-6pm. Engagement events for Ashtead, Bookham and Leatherhead will be confirmed in due course.

cllr Nick Wright Mole ValleyCouncillor Nick Wright, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Community Assets, said:

“I encourage everyone who uses our play areas to share their feedback and let us know what they would like to see in the new facilities. Whether through our quick online survey or by attending one of our engagement events, your views will help shape the future of play in Mole Valley.

“Play areas are an important part of our communities, providing spaces where children can be active, social and creative. We want to ensure that any new equipment reflects what local families and young people want and need.”

Online surveys can be completed until the end of September too. Printed copies will be available from Pippbrook Reception and from libraries in Ashtead, Bookham, Dorking and Leatherhead.

Residents can also request a survey by contacting our Customer Services team on 01306 885001, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm.

 
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Helen Maguire MP June Newsletter

June has been a very busy month – I’ve spoken in Parliament more than 20 times and been out and about across Epsom, Ewell, Ashtead and Leatherhead almost every weekend. It’s also been a somewhat chaotic month for national politics in Westminster, with the Burnham by-election and subsequent resignation from the Prime Minister dominating the headlines. Whatever happens next in our national leadership, I want you to know that my priorities, and the Liberal Democrats’, haven’t changed. We’re staying focused on the issues that matter to you: our NHS, this cost of living crisis, and standing up for this communities. Thank you, as always, for staying engaged. Please do continue to get in touch via email, phone, letter or social media (details below).
MY KEY PRIORITIES
Local Healthcare
After relentlessly pressing the case in Parliament and beyond for investment in St Helier’s A&E, the Government has announced £57 million to extend and upgrade the emergency department. It’s a significant win for St Helier and for the local people who rely on it – and a reminder of what sustained local campaigning can achieve. Unfortunately, it has since emerged that women’s health services at St Helier may need to relocate due to safety concerns for the building. Alongside fellow Lib Dem MPs Bobby Dean, Luke Taylor and Paul Kohler, I’ve written to the Government demanding clarity: what alternatives have been explored, how have staff been consulted, and how would services actually be relocated? I’ll keep pushing until we get proper answers, and it certainly doesn’t take away from the hard-fought win for the A&E funding. On a more positive note, I also had a really useful introductory meeting with Mat Shaw, the new Group Chief Executive of St George’s, Epsom and St Helier, at Epsom Hospital. I look forward to working with him in the future to ensure healthcare provision in our constituency goes from strength to strength.
Honoring Our Armed Forces
In June we marked Armed Forces Week, during which I was delighted to hear that my amendment to the Railways Bill has been backed by the Rail Minister, meaning free rail travel to Remembrance events will now be extended to include a bereaved family member – so no one has to miss paying their respects because of cost. It’s a small change, but one I’m proud to have secured. I also visited Combat Stress to talk about PTSD awareness, and was honoured to give a reading at a flag-raising ceremony in Parliament to mark the week.
Standing Against Division
Following the disorder we saw in Epsom earlier this year, I remain determined that our community responds with unity, not division. It was great to see local leaders within the community take this stand too, with the event ‘Stand Up to Racism Epsom’ taking place in June. It was wonderful to come together as a community and I’m very grateful to the organisers for putting on such a meaningful event. I was also proud to take part in the Legacy of Jo Cox debate, marking ten years since her murder. Jo’s message still matters: we have far more in common than that which divides us. You can watch my speech here.
IN PARLIAMENT
Backing the Youth Jobs Grant
From 30th June, employers across the country can claim up to £3,000 for hiring a young person who’s been on Universal Credit for six months. I’m keen to make sure local employers in Epsom and Ewell know about this and take it up. Employers will be able to apply for grants through a simple application process found here, with further details on eligibility and requirements available on business.gov.uk/recruit.
A Busy Month in the Chamber
I raised both national and local important issues in Parliament this month: E-scooters – I pressed the Home Office for clearer national guidance so police aren’t left improvising enforcement powers against a genuinely dangerous rise in e-scooter use. You can watch my question here. The Defence Investment Plan – I pushed the Minister on how Liberal Democrat proposed funding policies like defence bonds and a rearmament bank can support the sector without piling more costs onto taxpayers already facing a cost of living crisis. You can watch my question here. Thames Water – I welcomed the Government’s decision not to approve a bailout deal, and once again called again for special administration so my constituents stop paying the price for the company’s £20 billion of debt. You can watch my question here. Illegal vape and barber shops – I praised local police for four successful busts on the high street, and called for more powers and resource for community policing. You can watch my question here.
IN THE CONSTITUENCY
Epsom Derby Day
A brilliant day out at the Epsom Derby – always a highlight of the local calendar! Congratulations to the race winners and Derby organisers for another fantastic event.
Dorking & Leatherhead Gymnastics Club
I dropped in to celebrate the Dorking and Leatherhead Gymnastics club’s 50th anniversary and presented an Early Day Motion I tabled, recognising founder Margaret Miler and everyone – coaches, volunteers and staff – who has made the club such a welcoming space for the community over five decades.
Inspired by Sir David Attenborough
It was so lovely to see the young students at Stamford Green Primary School and Nursery hold a community celebration of Sir David Attenborough’s contribution to conservation, where they raised funds for Save the Rhino after being moved by his documentary series Africa. It was an amazing evening and I felt so inspired by their creativity and determination to make the world a better place, one rhino at a time!
Bourne Hall Summer Festival
I was delighted to pop down to the Bourne Hall Summer Festival in Ewell, which had a fantastic turnout from the local community! The festival featured live music, stalls, and activities for all ages. Summer fete season is certainly in full swing!
PRIMARY CARE + CANCER SPOKESPERSON FOR THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS
Secondary breast cancer is now the leading cause of death for women aged 40-49 in the UK, yet 13 years after data collection became mandatory, we still don’t know how many people are living with it. I called on the Government to properly count and fund care for the estimated 61,000 people affected. You can watch my speech here. I also spoke in the debate on NHS breast screening, where I pushed for better uptake among under-screened groups, alternative screening options for women with dense breast tissue, and urgent investment in ageing radiotherapy equipment – as a quarter of England’s machines are already operating beyond their recommended lifespan. You can watch my speech here. And in the debate on community hospitals, I highlighted the vital role Leatherhead Community Hospital plays locally, offering more than 33 services from stoma care to speech and language therapy, and called for proper investment so community hospitals can take the strain off larger acute sites. You can watch my speech here.
CASEWORK UPDATE
This month we closed 943 cases, with many of you getting in touch about social media for under 16s, housing applications, and various local issues such as the Epsom and Ewell local plan. Thank you to everyone who has written to me this month. Please rest assured that my team and I are working hard to respond to everyone as soon as possible. If you have an issue you would like to raise, or to request an appointment at my next surgery, please email me at: [email protected].
IN THE MEDIA
I spoke to Sky News about the Government’s Defence Investment Plan, and joined BBC Politics South East to discuss Brexit and the future of our relationship with the EU. I also took part in a European Movement UK panel on securing Europe in an age of geopolitical turbulence.
LOCAL NEWS
A3 Tolworth Roundabout Roadworks
Following a serious collision that damaged the highway parapet at Tolworth roundabout, I’ve written to Transport for London on behalf of constituents affected by the resulting slip road closures. TfL have confirmed repairs are expected to complete by 24th July, and that safety checks are being carried out around the clock in the meantime.
Epsom Soroptimists Open Evening
Epsom Soroptimists are hosting an Open Evening on Tuesday 14th July at 7.30pm at the Epsom Club, Church Street. The evening features a talk from former Metropolitan Police officer and author Kathryn West, followed by the chance to find out more about the Soroptimists’ work. For more information get in touch with [email protected].
ZeveFest
I was delighted to attend ZeveFest, Danetree Primary School’s Family Fun Day, raising money and awareness for their student, ten-year-old Zeve, who is undergoing treatment for a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. It had a wonderful community turnout for a very special cause.
GET IN TOUCH
As your MP, I am here to listen to the issues that matter most to you. There are several ways to contact me or keep in touch with what I am doing week to week. You can contact me via email at: [email protected] You can write to me in Westminster at: Helen Maguire MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
To Sign Up For Helen’s Monthly Newsleter  Click Here
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Plans For An Accessible Footbridge At Hogsmill River

At a meeting of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s (EEBC) Environment Committee on 30 June 2026, councillors discussed the future of the Hogsmill River Stepping Stones and agreed to progress plans to deliver a new, safer crossing in the form of a footbridge, subject to securing funding for design, planning and construction. Councillors also agreed that the council, who do not own the river banks and bed, will not take on additional liability for the stepping stones in the future.

The proposed bridge will provide a safer and fully accessible alternative crossing to the popular stepping stones, which are currently closed following safety concerns raised by the local community, and a reported incident in which someone was injured.

The Hogsmill River in Ewell is noted for its nesting habitat for kingfishers and a range of other bird, mammal and insect species. In 2024, EEBC developed a new wetland habitat at Chamber Mead in the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve in partnership with the South East Rivers Trust. Last year, water voles were reintroduced there – the first in over two decades.

At the meeting, Councillors discussed a range of safety concerns and potential long-term solutions for the crossing.

Cllr Liz FrostFollowing the meeting, Councillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee, commented: “The stepping stones have historically been a popular crossing spot at the Hogsmill River, and we appreciate that some people will feel disappointed that they are no longer available to use; however, the safety of residents and visitors has to be our priority.

“Increased water levels, resulting in significantly longer periods where stones are submerged, alongside erosion around the steps due to heavy dog usage, mean that the crossing is now unsafe.

“We have carefully explored a range of options, including working with partners, and believe that a new accessible footbridge offers the best long-term solution. It will provide a safer and more stable/reliable crossing, enabling people of all ages and levels of mobility to continue enjoying this beautiful setting for many years to come.”

The council has submitted a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) application to support the construction of the new pedestrian footbridge – the decision will be made at the Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee being held on 14 July 2026.

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Hey Baby Comes To Ewell

A brand-new pregnancy scanning clinic Hey Baby has opened in Ewell

With pregnancy being one of the most special times in an expectant parent’s life, many opt to make the journey even more memorable by having additional scans outside of the NHS in a private setting. This done safely, and with a reputed Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulated clinic, and under an experienced team, can be one of the most magical experiences for parents to be. As technology advances, 4D ultrasound scans are becoming more popular amongst parents-to-be, providing imaging of what their unborn babies look like.

The new clinic, Hey Baby 4D in Ewell has been established to bring greater convenience and accessibility to the local community, offering expectant parents’ reassurance, bonding and experience-led pregnancy scans, including gender and 4D scans.

The service aims to help bridge the gap between routine NHS appointments, providing additional reassurance and memorable bonding opportunities during pregnancy, particularly during the waiting periods between standard scans.

Alongside pregnancy scanning services, the clinic will also offer access to specialist testing, including Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), early gender blood tests, and women’s health blood testing, giving local families easier access to additional pregnancy and wellbeing support in one convenient location.

Owner Chelsey, who also runs Hey Baby 4D Clapham and Hey Baby 4D Sutton, has a huge passion for providing an excellent customer experience and has opened a brand-new pregnancy scanning clinic on Cheam Rd, Ewell, Epsom. After successfully opening both Sutton and Clapham clinics, she wanted to bring her experience over to Epsom for parents-to-be to enjoy the amazing bonding experience of private pregnancy scans.

The clinic, which opened its doors this June, offers reassurance scans from 6 weeks, sex confirmation, wellbeing, NIPT blood tests and immersive 4D scans. With gender reveal parties on the rise, the scanning room also includes captivating “Gender Reveal Lighting”, which turns the room pink if you are having a girl and blue if you’re having a boy! The clinic offers a safe and professional service, coupled with a fun experience for the family to enjoy. The clinic also has a robust referral system in place for continuity of care with the NHS, if needed.

View the website: heybaby4d.co.uk/epsom/

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10/08/2026 No Comments