Engaging with our community

Discover how Councillor Nick Watts actively participates in and contributes to the community of Snodland. Learn about the initiatives he supports and the positive changes he helps bring about for local residents and organisations.

My commitment to community

I’m deeply involved in the Snodland community and regularly take part in activities that support local residents. One of the ways I contribute is through volunteering at the Snodland FoodHub, where I help support local families as well as the dedicated volunteers who work hard to provide this important service. Being involved at the FoodHub gives me the opportunity to meet people from across our community, understand some of the challenges they face and play my part in supporting those who need a helping hand.

Alongside my volunteering, I’m proud to serve as a Snodland Town Councillor. This gives me the opportunity to represent residents, raise issues that matter to our community and work with fellow councillors, local organisations and residents to find practical solutions. I believe being a councillor is about being visible, approachable and willing to listen, while making sure that the concerns raised by residents are not simply heard, but followed up and acted upon wherever possible.

Making a positive difference

For me, being involved in the community is about more than simply holding a position; it is about being available to people and doing what I can to make a positive difference. My involvement gives me the opportunity to speak directly with residents, understand the issues affecting them and make sure those concerns are brought to the attention of the people and organisations responsible for addressing them.

Through my volunteering at the Snodland FoodHub, I contribute to an essential community service that supports local residents and families. I’ve seen first-hand the importance of community organisations and the incredible contribution made by volunteers. As a Town Councillor, I can also take issues raised with me by residents and bring them into the appropriate discussions, working constructively with other councillors, community groups and organisations. My aim is always to turn concerns into practical action wherever I can and to help make Snodland a better place to live, work and raise a family.

Proud moments in community work

One piece of work I’m particularly proud of is the action I took to address concerns about poor lighting along Catts Alley. Residents had raised concerns about the inadequate lighting on the route between the local pharmacy and Saltings Road, particularly around the impact this can have on people's sense of safety when using the alley after dark.

I raised the issue through Snodland Town Council and successfully brought forward a motion calling for the situation to be properly explored and potential solutions to be considered. Although funding from Kent County Council was not available to provide a conventional lighting solution, I did not want the issue to simply disappear because funding was unavailable. The Town Council is now actively considering alternative options, including the possibility of solar-powered lighting.

For me, this is a good example of how local representation should work. A concern is raised by residents, it is brought to the appropriate forum, and we look for a realistic solution rather than simply accepting that nothing can be done. I will continue to support efforts to improve lighting in this area and to find an affordable option that can help residents feel safer when using Catts Alley.