The Siemens factory certainly seems to bring attention to Goole - not only another Prime Minister visiting - but the entire Cabinet for one of its regular meetings. For those of us who love trains, the Siemens factory is fantastic!

On the other side of the road, there is the RaisE building. Just visiting that part of Goole must give the impression of a town that is thriving. Another perspective though is that the Junction 36 development, while it has many positive aspects to it, brings a lot of revenue to East Riding Council - and that goes directly to Beverley. The RaisE building itself gives the impression no expense was spared. It seems to create a “Little Beverley” on the edge of Goole and channelling the beneficial effects elsewhere, rather than into the town.

It would be interesting to know what else of Goole the Prime Minister and Cabinet saw? Did they visit the town centre? Did they see the terrible state KCom has left many of the town’s pavements in? Did they see the roads so full of pot holes they would make good golf courses? 

On a human level, it’s good to see people fulfil their ambitions. Cllr Handley’s obvious euphoria at being East Riding Council leader is understandable. This puncturing of the Glass Ceiling is welcome. The town cannot live on one person’s exuberant joy at the ongoing fulfilling ambitions though, however many happy smiling photos the comms team get placed. The issues Goole people are dealing with need properly addressed, rather than hidden behind the Junction 36 development, and abandoned.

It seems like the Town Deal is turning out to be more of an exercise in how to waste £25 million, than how to make it work hard for the residents of Goole. We need a proper review of what is being done.

Thank you to everyone who has signed so far. Keep talking, keep sharing, keep signing!