BRACKNELL MP Dr Phillip Lee has enjoyed a busy day meeting charity groups and council officers in the borough.

He spoke to Caroline Holton, from Sebastian’s Action Trust, about trying to find a new bookshop for the group.

Their former shop, in Crossway, was forced to close last year as part of the regeneration.

Dr Lee said: “The charity bookshop was an important addition to the centre of Bracknell and I am extremely supportive of Caroline’s attempt to find a new venue.

“I hope all the relevant parties can have a fruitful discussion to support a new bookshop, as it forms an important part of the work that Sebastian’s Action Trust undertakes.” Also, as part of a number of visits in his constituency on Friday, March 28, Dr Lee also attended a meeting for the Dementia Friends scheme – co-ordinated by the Alzheimer’s Society – at the Birdsgrove Nursing Home in Old Bracknell Lane.

Dementia Friends is a network of registered dementia “champions” and “friends”, supported by government funds, which offers education programmes and support networks for those affected by dementia.

Dr Lee said: “This meeting was a rewarding glimpse of the Alzheimer’s Society’s commitment to tackling the challenge of dementia in our communities.

“I would like to express my deep appreciation for the hard work of many Bracknell constituents in making this event and others like it possible.

“I commend this initiative to all those in the Bracknell area with loved ones affected by dementia, as a valuable source of information and support.” That day, he also met planning chiefs from Bracknell Forest Council to discuss development in the area.

Dr Lee spoke to Bev Hindle, chief planning officer for the council, Cllr Chris Turrell, executive member for planning, and Adam Afriyie, MP for Windsor.

The main point of discussion at the meeting was the development of the TRL (Transport Research laboratory) site in Crowthorne, where 1,000 homes will be built.

Dr Lee expressed his concern over the lack of healthcare services, schools and amenities in light of the expansion of housing provision and population increase. He said: “Meetings between local councillors and MPs are an important part of establishing dialogue and ensuring that the concerns of constituents are addressed.

"I hope that we can continue to work together with the council to ensure that the views of residents are taken into consideration, and to guarantee the adequate provision of services for the growing local community.”