67th Weekly Newsletter
Parliament returns next week when the Government is set to face fresh criticism over its backward plans to give the Chagos Islands away, while we are also expecting to have sight of long-awaited proposals to reform education and the SEND system. It will be a big week, and I know how anxious parents in our area are too see how this Government plans to address what is a critical national issue. Rest assured I am ready to do my part and contribute to whatever debate is coming.
Greg
FEATURED THIS WEEK
Ros Allen, Weydon’s new Headteacher
As one of the largest secondary schools in our area, Weydon serves thousands of families in the north of our constituency. I met Ros to discuss local education and the Government’s forthcoming White Paper of schools reform - expected soon. These helpful discussions directly inform my work in Parliament.
The legacy of Sir Ray Tindle
The Herald, covering Farnham, Bordon, Haslemere and Liphook is soon to move to new offices locally. Currently based in Farnham’s Old Court House, I visited to catch up with the team and learn some more about the building’s history - including the legacy of local media magnate, Sir Ray Tindle.
‘Oracy’ and more at Liphook Junior School
It was lovely to meet Jacqueline and Greg from the Liphook Schools Confederation as I visited to learn more about how ‘oracy’ - speaking, listening and communication - is central to their teaching. I sat down with some pupils to hear their thoughts - certainly a highlight of the week.
Waverley’s coalition breaks apart
The Liberal Democrats at Waverley have lost the support of the Farnham Residents Group - a long overdue indictment of the current leadership’s failures. I welcome the Group’s attempt to put Farnham first, and I look forward to their support in holding the Liberal Democrats to account.
2026 MUST BE A YEAR OF DELIVERY FOR BORDON
As construction continues on the new Sainsbury’s in Bordon, the Bordon Taskforce held its first meeting of 2026 with a clear message: this must be a year of delivery.
There are positive signs. Four years of funding has been secured to strengthen the 13 and 18 bus services, with new stops now installed and a decision pending on real-time information. With further housing planned, I have pressed for forward planning on future routes and expect a detailed update shortly.
On healthcare, partners have backed proposals to remove the remaining barriers to the Health Hub. I was clear that Chase Community Hospital must not be affected until a fully operational, better alternative is in place – a commitment the NHS has confirmed. Building on the success of Farnham’s “Hospital Hoppa”, I have also begun discussions on a similar scheme locally, alongside updates on veterans’ services, education and town centre management.
LOCAL LIFE
Call for Trustees at the Rural Life Museum
The Museum between Tilford and Frensham is seeking new Trustees to help shape its future. Those with a passion for heritage and experience in areas such as governance, finance, fundraising, legal, marketing, major projects or learning would be particularly welcome.
E-mail Marina Heirro to learn more
Haslemere talk on autistic life
Local residents Robert Noble, a stallholder at my first ever Health Fayre last year, is hosting a talk at Haslemere Methodist Church on Saturday 28th March, 10:30am-11:30am. Robert is an author and I am pleased to share the details of this talk for anyone with an interest in autism and SEND.
THIS WEEK’S CASEWORK 'WINS’
I was pleased to hear from a constituent, who had been wating for over 12 months to have an accessibility assessment at their property, that it has now taken place. I will be keeping in touch with to monitor the progress following the assessment. I am also glad to see that my enquiries have led to a constituent’s Land Registry application progressing.
As you know from my previous newsletters, correspondence regarding potholes has substantially increased and I have been encouraging residents to report any defects through the appropriate channels. I am glad to be receiving feedback to say that reported potholes have been inspected and, if they are in need of repair, it will be done within 28 days.
Road safety outside schools is of paramount importance and I have written to Surrey County Council about schools which need clearer signage. Elsewhere, Thames Water is progressing with flooding issues on behalf of several constituents and I shall continue to press for updates on ongoing works across the constituency.
It is reassuring to hear that several school placements for children in Surrey without an education setting have now been found and allocated.
