This week I have been out with Wessex Internet who are delivering some of the Project Gigabit fibre to the premises in parts of this constituency. It was fascinating to see their cabling machines in action, but there remain significant parts of Hampshire which are not yet in line to receive the upgrades that are so sorely needed. However, there has been some progress, but I will keep badgering Ministers about the "not spots" that still exist.
I am also looking forward to speaking at the Hampshire Development Forum on Friday, which is addressing the much vexed issue of where new housing development is best located. One of my big bugbears is that not enough attention is paid to providing suitable housing for older members of the community, many of whom want to downsize but cannot necessarily find the right model for them. I am always wary of referring to the over 60s, that figure is looming up fast for me. I was, after all, kindly reminded by the Chronicle Group last week that they see me as a "veteran". But we should never assume that "one size fits all" is suitable for everyone looking for potentially their last property.
Of course what many want is easy access to services, which I am sure is what makes the centre of Romsey such a draw. Whenever I am in the Town I reflect on what a wonderful place it remains to live. I know there will be those who disagree, and wish to complain, but I never forget how lucky we have that the Town remains the charming Market Town it always has been.
I was thrilled on Wednesday to learn from the Minister, Baronss Twycross, that King John's House has been awarded some funding from the Musuem Renewal Fund. Of course it is never enough, but it is a step in the right direction. I know the Trust has an enormous amount of fundraising to do and the road ahead will be tough, but the launch of the "Friends of King John's House" is coming up next week. Over the last six months there has been an enormous amount of work done by some very dedicated volunteers and there is much more ahead. But the House really is a treasure in the heart of the Town, and one of the places that makes Romsey so special.
