Last week I was delighted to welcome to Sevenoaks, Google who hosted a “Google Digital Garage” at the Bat and Ball Centre.
As part of their outreach, Google are inviting local businesses to such events to help them learn new digital skills, especially as AI develops and becomes more and more important.
Not only were there group sessions running, but also one-to-one mentoring. It was fascinating to sit in on one session about Marketing Strategy and speak with the attendees and trainers. I learnt so much and it was great to hear positive feedback from those businesses in attendance.
A huge thank you to the Google team for running the sessions. As a huge champion of our local businesses, I will continue to do all I can to ensure they and our community can continue to thrive.
In anticipation of the Southeastern Rail Forum that took place recently, I would also like to say thank you to all of you who got in touch to share with me your feedback on our local train routes.
One of the main problems highlighted related to overcrowding on some of the rush-hour fast-line services between Otford and Charing Cross. Whilst it has been pleasing that since we successful campaigned for the fast-service nearly two years ago it has been going from strength to strength, it is clear that this success does mean more carriages and services need to be added to the timetable.
Including at the recent Forum, I have ensured these points have been raised regularly with Southeastern, and I am hopeful we will obtain more carriages in the near future, as well as for services serving Sevenoaks station.
With regard to Contactless, you may recall its implementation was pulled at the last minute in September due to a cyber security breach. TfL are now in the recovery phase of dealing with this, but it is still likely to be some little time before Contactless is ready to proceed as they now need to re-set each of the 25000 TfL employees laptops and devices. I know this is deeply frustrating, and I am pushing for the launch to be as soon as possible. There are regular meetings between TfL, Southeastern and DfT and as soon as there is a date for roll out agreed, I will let you know.
