It was a pleasure to spend Sunday morning with Stewart, Managing Agent for Colne Valley Regional Park.

We took a walk through the serene Ankerwycke Estate, across the river from the Runnymede Marshes where the Magna Carta was signed 809 years ago.

We also discussed the Colne Valley Park Trust's concerns about the potential impact of the Heathrow expansion on the area.

We talked about ensuring development on and around green belt land is done strategically and sensibly, as well as uncoordinated new construction work in the Colne Valley.

I back a ‘plan-led’ approach of managing our spaces, putting new build revenue back into preserving our green belt.

I will always be a loud and proud champion of our environment, ensuring the character of our local spaces surrounding the towns and villages I represent is preserved.

It was also a pleasure to join the residents at the Ellison House almshouse, formally The New Windsor Municipal Charities, for a fun BBQ last Friday evening.

I had a great time chatting with the residents about their life experiences, including some fantastic military stories.

Built in 1862, Ellison House provides affordable housing for 27 senior residents with long-term links to Windsor. Many couldn't afford to stay in the town if it wasn't for this facility, and there is a fantastic community spirit.

Almshouses, founded by philanthropists and run by volunteer trustees, provide longstanding community-led housing.

There are some policy tweaks to the National Planning Policy Framework which The Almshouse Association believe could enable more homes like this and reduce costs. I will be making these representations.