IN last week’s column I tried to give you a flavour of what it’s like to be working as a busy MP within Westminster, writes Redditch MP Rachel Maclean.

But of course I also have my constituency to concentrate on, and it’s sometimes difficult to fit in all I want to do here in Redditch, because during Parliament time I only have one working day back here – a Friday.

Having said that we have been on Conference recess so I could attend more meetings and visits than usual.

I have held surgery-style meetings with a number of constituents. I am beginning to learn about some of the frightful situations some people find themselves in, my heart goes out to them all and I will always do what I can to help, even if that just means lending a sympathetic ear.

Last Monday I held a meeting with representative from Stoford Developments who have put in a planning application for what is called the Redditch Eastern Gateway, a proposed industrial and office development to the east of the town.

I called for the meeting so I could better understand the proposals from the developers’ point of view, because local residents in Winyates Green are concerned about how this is going to affect their quality of life in a number of ways.

Following the meeting I shall now be writing to residents in the locality with further details of my findings.

On Tuesday, I visited Walkwood Middle School as part of my drive to visit every school in Redditch, while on Wednesday it was my pleasure to visit the Redditch Lions Centenary Tea Party at the White Hart in Headless Cross.

On Thursday, I visited specialist transport and logistics company, Transmec in Crossgate Road, and was fascinated to see how this successful company operates and the wide customer base in which it functions. 

Then on Friday I held the first in what I hope will be a series of successful Business Leaders’ meetings in Redditch.

Some 40 managers representing hundreds, probably thousands, of employees in Redditch, listened to my vision for a business mentoring scheme where successful local business people can pass on their experiences of how to achieve to those just starting out on their business venture.

Do visit my website at rachelmaclean.uk/.