Councillor Thorn accused me of "talking down" Tolworth Broadway.

I have never done this. What I do say is that the problems of Tolworth Broadway should be acknowledged and action taken to help revitalise the area. Action is needed to encourage new shops to come to the Broadway to replace those that have left, environmental improvements made where necessary and a greater sense of "community" established.

It was for these reasons that I proposed to the Neighbourhood Committee the setting up of the Tolworth Broadway Working Party. I'm delighted that it has now started meeting and has received such a positive response from all parts of the community, the council, Tolworth traders, local community groups and the wider public.

It has the potential to make a valuable contribution to help improve Tolworth Broadway, which was and is my aim.

Coun K Witham

Conservative Party Tolworth spokesman

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