2011 has been an interesting year, and Protect Kent have faced a number of challenges during the past twelve months. These have ranged from campaigns such as the Public Inquiry into the Lydd Airport expansion, to supporting CPRE nationally in the campaign against the less than satisfactory draft National Planning Policy Framework.  Whilst there is still some mileage in these major issues, we have enjoyed major successes in smaller but no less significant areas, such as the Sandway Motocross site and the China Gateway application.

Unfortunately, there are a number of campaigns that will carry over into next year.  That is the nature of our work.  Many of the issues we deal with do take a
while to reach conclusion, irrespective of the outcome.  I do understand how difficult, tiring, and sometimes demoralising these marathon tasks can be.

But consider this; what would our beautiful county be like, now and in the future, if Protect Kent did not exist?

We know from your feedback that the people and communities of Kent are appreciative of the commitment, professionalism, diligence and tenacity exercised by all who make up Protect Kent – its members, supporters, and staff.  We have some highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced people in our ranks, especially in the District and specialist Committees, who give their time freely to safeguard our countryside. 

As we see another year in, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all within Protect Kent for their hard work over the past year.  I am confident that we will be able to deal with the numerous challenges ahead of us with the same enthusiasm and expertise we have effectively demonstrated in the past.

And finally, may I offer you the very best wishes for the season, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Richard Knox-Johnston 

Chairman, Protect Kent

Eds Note: Much of this hard work
would be impossible to do without Richard spurring us on, so I would like to
take this opportunity to thank him for his unwavering commitment and support to
the charity.