Maida Vale Conservatives

Queen's Cottage Cafe

2011-05-27T09:17:00.003+01:00

The application for increased hours and to sell more kinds of alcohol was rejected yesterday by the licensing committee. Jan spoke on behalf of residents living nearby who were not keen on the proposal.

Thanks to everyone who got involved on this issue - we hope this is a satisfactory outcome.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Update

2011-04-29T11:05:00.002+01:00

Just a short note: Brent Council have been contact and are intending to bring forward further proposals around the South Kilburn Masterplan that may affect Kilburn Park Road.

We have requested more details and will be asking that they involve residents are early as they are able.

We'll update you when we have more information.

Lee

Proposed changes to 46 and 187 buses

2011-03-18T23:40:00.003Z

A little bit out of our area but no doubt interesting for those using local buses ...

TfL have been in touch with details of their proposals to amend the routes used by bus numbers 46 and 187 within Maida Vale and Little Venice.

The main change is around no longer turning from Clifton Road into Randolph Avenue before joining Sutherland Avenue (and then going on to Maida Vale). Instead, buses would now join Maida Vale straight from Clifton Road, missing out the bus stop on Randolph. The same would apply in the other directino.

If you have any comments or concerns about this proposed change, please write to STEngagement@tfl.gov.uk by 1 April 2011.

Lee

Police Car Delivered

2011-03-12T18:04:00.001Z

Last year, as part of Maida Vale's ward budget, we purchased a car for the local police team to allow them to get around the area quicker.

The car was ordered as part of a joint proposal with Little Venice ward next door and since then we've been waiting for the police to arrange delivery. We've heard that week that it's due shortly ...

We'll let you know as soon as it arrives.

Lee

Brent Council: Planning Application

2011-02-06T17:18:00.003Z

We have been informed by Westminster's Planning department that Brent Council have submitted an application to demolish a number of buildings in South Kilburn.

These buildings are -

(1) Cambridge Court, Cambridge Avenue
(2) Wells Court, Coventry Close
(3) Ely Court, Chichester Road

Should you wish find out more or to comment on the proposals, you can find out more at www.westminster.gov.uk/planning (use reference number 11/00678/OBS) before the end of this month.

You can also get in touch with us directly if you want to discuss this application.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road and Shirland Road: Bus vibrations improvement

2011-01-09T14:32:00.003Z

Happy New Year from all three of us!

A piece of good news to start a year which will no doubt be full of challenges ...

Residents in Kilburn Park Road and Shirland Road have, for many years, expressed concerns about the volume of TfL buses using the roads. Although welcome from a public transport perspective, the sheer weight of buses was also believed to be significantly affecting the quality of the road surface and, as a knock-on effect, creating vibrations which were affecting the nearby houses.

We have tried for a number of years to discuss what could be done with Transport for London and Westminster's Transportation Department. We are pleased to report that, after further lobbying of TfL during the Autumn, they have agreed to reduce the number of buses by approximately 10% from January.

Although this is unlikely to resolve the vibration problem, it is a step in the right direction. We'll keep a close eye on what is happening and keep speaking to residents of both roads. Hopefully this change will show some improvement!

Lee

Clifton Road works

2010-11-26T18:41:00.002Z

Slightly outside of the ward but will be of interest to many (particularly those who use Edgware Road/Maida Vale)

Work will be undertaken on the junction of Clifton Road/Maida Vale over the next couple of weeks. The initial works, involving the movement of a traffic island start on Sunday and will involve some delays, particularly for southbound traffic using Maida Vale. Works will be undertaken outside of peak hours to try to reduce any problems.

There is also likely to be further works in Clifton Road after Christmas.

Lee

Maida Vale Area Forum: This Wednesday

2010-11-06T08:10:00.003Z

The next Maida Vale Area Forum will be held this Wednesday (10th November) at the Paddington Academy between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Please do come along if you live in Maida Vale and want to get involved with decision making in the Council!

There are three areas of policy that we are asking residents to comment on:

how to make Westminster a "living city",
the Council's new parking policy review, and;
the new Westminster Warden street-based staff.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday!

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: works to begin

2010-10-23T18:12:00.002+01:00

We are sad to report that, after over a year of fighting and trying to stop what we consider to be a short-sighted and bad development, Brent Council have given Westminster notice that they will shortly begin works on the roundabout.

The last year has been one of ups and downs on this issue, with fantastic support from residents, nearly a dozen update leaflets put out by us, visits to planning committees, meetings in Maida Vale, arguments with Brent Councillors and site visits. Only recently we appealed to the GLA (without success) and even held a meeting about the possibility of judicially reviewing the decision by Brent (unfortunately not likely to succeed we are advised).

The stopping up order for the roundabout has now been issued and it is likely that work will begin towards the end of the year to close it. We are on record to say we believe this is a major mistake.

We'll be getting in touch with Kilburn Park Road residents so that they are able to plan for what inevitably will be a major period of disruption which will likely result in a deterioration in their quality of life and the aesthetic of the area. Whilst we are fully supportive of Brent's desire to remove the towerblocks which blight the area, we have consistently argued that they do not need to do this by removing one of the few green spots in the area, nor by causing additional traffic congestion to local residents. Brent have consistently ignored us on this.

Fifty years ago a generation of town planners caused geographical and aesthetic vandalism to many city areas with idealistic notions of urban design which proved to be wholly unsuitable to the residents who had to endure them. Brent should remember that those who forget history are doomed to repeat it.

Lee

More on tube ...

2010-10-22T08:45:00.002+01:00

Here's a news story on the recent unveiling of the plaque at the tube ...

Click here to find out more.

Jan

Maida Vale Station Gets a Plaque

2010-10-09T15:27:00.002+01:00

Next Monday, we're pleased to report that a heritage plaque will be unveiled at Maida Vale tube station celebrating the history and character of our local station.

In both her capacity as ward member and Deputy Lord Mayor, Jan will be unveiling the plaque with representatives of London Underground and others.

Check it out when you go in!

Jan

Planning Application: Phone Mast

2010-09-08T08:22:00.003+01:00

Residents living near Lauderdale Parade will shortly be receiving (or may have already received) a letter from Westminster Council highlighting that a planning application has been submitted by Vodafone to erect a phone mast in the vicinity.

You can find out more by clicking here.

If residents wish to object, they should forward them to northplanningteam@westminster.gov.uk or write to 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP, marking them for the attention of Robert Smith.

As local Councillors, we believe this to be an inappropriate place for a phone mast to be cited. We will be making personal objections and are happy to support residents doing the same.

Alastair, Jan, Lee

Kilburn Park Road: TfL correspondence

2010-08-31T21:02:00.004+01:00

Over the last few months we have reported regularly on our fight to stop Brent Council's silly plans for the top of Kilburn Park Road. As local Councillors, we have been very happy to support the campaign by local residents concerned that the development - which proposes to built 130 flats on the roundabout - will significantly affect their lives for the worse.

A little while ago we asked our local GLA member, Kit Malthouse, to take up the case, particularly with regard to the potential effects on traffic of the removal of the roundabout. Kit kindly agreed to do so and has been holding a number of discussions with Transport for London about the proposal. Kit was happy to express his reservations - and add his concerns to ours - that the removal of the roundabout (and its replacement with a signalled junction) would significant affect the residents living closest by. He also agreed with us that the proposed removal of the roundabout was at odds with Brent's aspiration to massively increase the number of people who live (and use the roads) in the area.

Unfortunately we are sad to report that Transport for London have written back in the last few days indicating that they are not minded to call the development in for an inquiry. Whilst we respect TfL's decision, we disagree with it and still believe that Brent are approaching this development with a complete lack of foresight.

Thanks to Kit for his support. We keep fighting.

Lee

Paddington Day at Westminster Archives

2010-08-22T10:00:00.003+01:00

Westminster Archives, one of the Council's hidden gems, will be holding a "Paddington Day" on Saturday 9th October where local residents can come and explore the rich history of our area and the collections they hold.

If you would like to find out more about days gone by in Bayswater, Harrow Road, Paddington, Little Venice, Maida Vale or Queen's Park do come along. There will be two sessions (10 - 2 and 1 - 4) which will include a talk and a film showing.

If you would like to book a place for free e-mail jbottomley@westminster.gov.uk.

Lee

Thames Water: Feedback on Open Day

2010-08-08T16:30:00.002+01:00

Another open day was held for the residents of Tollgate Gardens last month and we've just been sent the feedback on what residents told the team who are working on this project.

Around 25 residents took part in the day, early in July, and provided feedback on what - if anything - they would change about the estate if they had the chance.

Here are a few conclusions from the questionnaire:

Almost all residents that took part thought that their flats were too small;
Most residents think that the estate needs modernising;
Many have problems with security on the estate and do not feel safe, and;
Residents were understandably concerned about potential changes to the estate and the impact it might have, on a temporary basis, to their lives.

As local Councillors, we have pressed the team at CityWest who are running this project to get involved with local residents as much as they can and to seek as much feedback as possible. Open Days like this are a great way to find out more about what local residents are thinking - so thanks to all who attended. As has been promised before - the proposed development of Tollgate will only happen if residents want it to, so it is important to hear first hand what all residents think now.

If you are a resident of Tollgate, do make sure you get involved at the next opportunity to provide your feedback.

Jan

Paddington Rec: Planning Application

2010-08-07T15:03:00.004+01:00

The Council's Park Department has been in touch to say that they will be putting in a planning application shortly to add a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) in one of the arcs of the running track.

MUGA are becoming increasingly popular in parks around the country - outdoor apparatus that anyone can use to keep fit.

The Parks Department first mooted this idea a little while ago to us as Councillors at our regular quarterly Rec meeting. We asked that, prior to any application going in, the Parks Department undertake a pre-consultation with all residents living nearby. As a result, all residents should have already been sent a letter with further information.

We'll post more details when we have them. In the meantime, if you would like to discuss the matter further, don't hesitate to get in touch: maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com

Lee

Mobile Phone Mast

2010-07-25T19:19:00.002+01:00

A number of residents have been in touch regarding a notice which appeared a few days ago in Lauderdale Parade suggesting that a mobile phone mast may be erected there.

A company acting on behalf of Vodafone seems to be looking for a new site for a mobile phone mast. As local Councillors, we were alerted by letter a few days ago to the same - indicating that there was a need for a mast in the area to boost signal strength and that up to 10 different sites were assessed for suitability (although only one would be proposed in the end). One of those sites is Lauderdale Parade. Another is in Elgin Avenue.

We have asked for further information and are awaiting an update. Any proposal by Vodafone will be subject to the usual planning process, starting with a formal application being made. Such an application has not been filed to date.

We'll let you know when we know more.

Jan, Alastair and Lee

JPS School Planning Application ...

2010-07-15T21:26:00.002+01:00

... was refused tonight at Westminster's Planning Committee. More soon.

Jan

JPS Planning Application: Committee Date Changed

2010-07-05T16:22:00.002+01:00

The planning committee date for the JPS planning application has now been moved back by a week, from 8th to 15th July.

Lee

Dibdin House: Planning Application

2010-06-27T10:15:00.003+01:00

Pathmeads, the managers of Dibdin House, have filed a planning application to convert the "disused" creche into a flat.

We have asked for more details on this application. From our reading the application is fundamentally flawed - not least that the creche is actually a community hall and the suggestion that it hasn't been used for around eight years is incorrect (because we held meetings in it just a few years ago).

We'll keep you informed ...

Alastair

JPS Planning Application: Decision Date

2010-06-25T19:56:00.003+01:00

Back in March we reported that a planning application had been submitted by the JPS School to build several new stories on top of the existing building on Andover Place.

A decision date has now been set for the application - the committee will hear it on 8th July at City Hall.

You can find out more about the application (and comment on it) by clicking here.

Lee

Maida Vale Area Forum

2010-06-24T14:13:00.002+01:00

Last week was the regular Maida Vale Area Forum, where local residents have the opportunity to talk about our area and get involved with the decision making process at the Council.

A good turnout by Maida Vale residents enabled us to have a particularly good discussion at the end of the forum regarding this year's Community Fund for the area. The Council have again allocated a proportion of money for Maida Vale - less than the amount of the last two years (which was £100,000) as a result of the economic downturn, but still a sum that should be able to make a difference for residents (£50,000).

So far, the only commitment we've made is the continuation of the hanging baskets which have proven so popular in the last year. That leaves approximately £35,000 to spend going forward - and we chatted through what to do with the residents last week.

There is no rush to spend this money so, if you have any views, please do get in touch at maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com.

Lee and Alastair

Maida Vale Tube: Proposal to reduce ticket office opening hours

2010-06-21T11:24:00.002+01:00

We've heard on the grapevine that London Underground may reduce the opening hours of the ticket office at Maida Vale station.

We beleive the proposal is to move to opening hours of:

Monday - Friday 7.30am - 10.30am
Saturday 11am - 1.30pm
Sunday 2.30pm - 4pm

This would contrast with the current situation where the ticket offices are open most of the day.

Clearly, there is a balance to be struck here - most people now prefer to use the machines to re-load, meaning less work for the offices themselves. That said, it is important that any reductions do not materially affect the ability of people to travel.

What do you think? We would be genuinely interested to know how local residents feel about this proposal. E-mail maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com to give us your views.

Lee

Tollgate Gardens: Residents Meeting

2010-06-19T17:31:00.004+01:00

Just a short note to say that we'll be holding a meeting on Tollgate Gardens on Monday to discuss the current status of the proposed regeneration.

Architects have been working on potential plans for Tollgate since they were selected a number of months ago. At the same time, there has been a number of consultations with local residents about if/what they would like to see change on their estate. Whilst it is fair to say that there has been a healthy debate on the issues, we are really glad to see people getting involved in the process and having their say.

Cllr Philippa Roe, the Councillor in charge of Housing for the City of Westminster will also be in attendance, as will local residents who have been involved in the process so far.

Alastair

Next Maida Vale Area Forum - 17th June

2010-05-31T10:56:00.002+01:00

The next Area Forum will take place in just over two weeks tie - on 17th June between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at the Paddington Academy, Marylands Road.

Area Forums are a great opportunity for local residents to come and discuss and debate local issues, along with the direction the Council is taking with regards to Westminster.

The four topics under discussion will be:

Services for Older People;
Improvements to Street Management;
Open Spaces in Maida Vale, and;
the City Management Plan.

There will also be an opportunity to discuss the £50,000 which has been allocated to every ward as part of the continuing ward budgets programme for this year.

Please do come along if you can!

Jan

Andover Place

2010-05-30T09:05:00.002+01:00

Just a short note to say that the planning application from JPS on Andover Place - which was due to be heard by Westminster Council's planning committee last Thursday evening - was deferred to another date at the last minute.

The application will now come in front of the committee in a few weeks time (date to be confirmed). As soon as we know, we'll let you know.

Alastair

Want to meet the local police team?

2010-05-23T19:28:00.002+01:00

Would you like to meet the local Maida Vale police team?

The team are holding a series of 'street surgeries' across the ward over the next few weeks for local residents to come along and discuss any issues, problems or concerns.

If you would like to go along, here are the dates:

7th June 7pm - 9pm: at the Elgin Avenue/Lanark Road junction

12th June 2pm - 4pm: in Paddington Recreation Ground

3rd July 2pm - 4pm: in Paddington Recreation Ground

24th July 2pm - 4pm: in Paddington Recreation Ground

The team will be bringing along the mobile police station - so you should be able to find them!

Lee

More on the Bowling Green ...

2010-05-19T17:04:00.002+01:00

www.maidavalebowls.org.uk has lots of great pictures from last Saturday (and also of the Bowling Green hut as it transformed) - go take a look!

The group is also holding another meeting to discuss next steps this comin Monday at 8pm. If you want to get involved (and they are always looking for new supporters and helpers), e-mail info@maidavalebowls.org.uk.

Lee

Visit from Lord Mayor

2010-05-18T14:34:00.003+01:00

Last Saturday we were very pleased - along with many local residents - to welcome the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Duncan Sandys, to Paddington Rec.

The Lord Mayor was here to re-open the much improved bowling green, to name the gate on Randolph Avenue and to name the refurbished pavilion. The green now has a fantastic new hut available to use, which has been extensively improved by the Council over the Spring.

Our Lord Mayor is part of the Churchill family and the gate was named after his great-great grandfather, Lord Randolph Churchill who was instrumental in securing the land for Paddington Rec at the end of the 19th century.

Thanks to all local residents who came out for a really enjoyable afternoon.

Alastair, Lee and Jan

Thanks!

2010-05-10T22:09:00.001+01:00

Just a short note to say thanks to all those in Maida Vale who voted for us last Thursday - we are delighted to have been re-elected to serve the area for another four years.

Whether you voted for us or not, we are here to help. If there is anything that we may be able to assist with - now or in the future - please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Vote Conservative on Thursday

2010-05-05T18:29:00.002+01:00

Over the last four years we have tried hard to improve life for everyone in Maida Vale. If you value the work we have done, we hope you will consider supporting us on Thursday 6th May.

We would be very grateful for your support.

Polls are open from 7am to 10pm at:

Essendine Primary School: on Essendine Road, and;
Maida Centre: on Lanark Road.

Thanks for all of your support over the last four years.

Alastair Moss

Jan Prendergast

Lee Rowley

Tollgate Update

2010-04-03T08:52:00.002+01:00

A short update on the work underway at Tollgate to improve the Estate for all residents:

Since the architect (JM Architects) was appointed several months ago, they have been working with a steering group made up of residents to develop plans for the Estate. Monthly meetings are being held of the steering group to discuss progress and to ensure that residents can see what is happening and how the plans are being developed.

Over the last few weeks, the Council has also undertaken a survey of all residents to obtain their thoughts on the Estate and their housing needs. This information will be fed back into the plans being developed.

The current timeline is that proposals for improving the Estate will come forward in the Autumn, allowing for residents and JM to spend a good amount of time working them up.

Prior to that, in May, residents will have the opportunity to sign up to a 'resident's charter' which provides them with a number of cast iron guarantees during the regeneration process.

We'll let you know more shortly.

Jan

Maida Vale Area Forum

2010-04-02T19:29:00.002+01:00

The notes from the last Maida Vale Area Forum have now been uploaded to the Westminster Council website. You can find them here.

The next Maida Vale Area is scheduled for Thursday 17th March at 6.30pm.

Lee

Bowling Green re-opening soon

2010-04-01T22:39:00.001+01:00

Not long now until the Bowling Green re-opens - and many local residents have commented to us on the works that are underway on the Pavilion. David has posted pictures on his blog here.

The green will be opened for its fantastic second season on 1st May, with an opening by the Lord Mayor on Saturday 15th May. All residents are welcome to attend and further details with follow.

In the meantime, the group of local residents set up to protect and improve the Green are meeting this week to discuss the upcoming season (Thursday 8th April at 8pm). If you would like to attend, please e-mail info@maidavalebowls.org.uk.

Jan

Paddington Rec Steering Group

2010-03-29T09:22:00.003+01:00

A few days ago we had one of our regular, quarterly steering groups to talk about Paddington Rec with Council officers.

It was a good meeting with much discussed and agreed:

improvement works to the cafe are progressing well;
the redevelopment of the bowling hut is underway (delayed slightly due to the bad winter weather) but, hopefully, still ready in time for the re-opening of the Bowling Green in May;
plans are well progressed for a new 'adult's playground' near the running track;
we continue to monitor behaviour in the Rec (very little anti-social behaviour or problems) and any issues with dogs (and have requested further visits from the dog warden), and;
the improvements to lighting at the Carlton Vale entrance have begun.

There are also plans an official opening of the bowling green in mid-May with the Lord Mayor. We'll let you know more when it has all been agreed.

Jan

Andover Place planning application

2010-03-23T22:34:00.002Z

Several years ago, the local JPS preparatory school on the corner of Andover Place and Kilburn Park Road was granted permission to build two new storeys on top of the existing building. At the time, as local Councillors, we opposed this building because of the potential to affect residents living close by in Torridon House and Dibdin House, both from a sense of enclosure and overlooking.

Despite JPS having permission to undertake the development they have not, to date, begun works.

Westminster City Council recently received a new application from JPS for a slightly amended version of the above proposal. From our initial briefing from planning, we understand that the application is a for a similar, potentially even slightly larger build.

We have circulated a letter to nearby residents to ask their views on the application.

Jan, Alastair and Lee

Neighbourhood Watch Meeting

2010-03-16T12:36:00.001Z

A quick thanks to those residents who attended the local police team's update and Neighbourhood Watch Meeting last week.

As local Councillors, we have been keen to support Neighbourhood Watches throughout the ward, wherever local residents want to set one up. Although crime is thankfully very low in Maida Vale there is always more work to do and a strong local community can help spot any problems early.

If you would like to start a Neighbourhood Watch in your street do get in touch on maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com

Starbucks, Randolph Avenue: litter bins

2010-03-14T17:29:00.003Z

Just a quick note to say pleased that Starbucks have now taken us up on our suggestion to install a couple of litter bins near their premises on Randolph Avenue. We asked for this some time ago as part of their application to maintain tables outside. Although it's taken a little bit of time to come through, it is very welcome!

Alastair

Paddington Sports Club: Planning Application

2010-03-04T22:10:00.003Z

Last week, the application to cover two tennis courts at Paddington Sports Club came in front of Westminster Council's planning committee, with a number of local residents listening in the audience.

As local Councillors, we provided our own comments directly to the committee - saying that we couldn't support the application because of the potential effect on the quality of life of local residents.

The committee made their decision on the evening and agreed with our (and many local resident's) comments - that the plan shouldn't go ahead. Although they were keen to promote sport and sport facilities throughout Westminster they agreed that it shouldn't come at the expense of local residential amenity.

Thanks to all local residents who have been involved in the process over the last couple of months.

Alastair

More on Kilburn Park Road ...

2010-03-02T17:43:00.004Z

As we mentioned late last week, Brent Council decided to pass the planning application to build 130 flats on the roundabout at a planning committee meeting last Wednesday.

Although we always knew we were up against it when we started our campaign with residents last Autumn, it is still incredibly disappointing to see a planning committee decide against you, as they did late last Wednesday night. All three of us, along with many residents - both from Brent and Westminster - had turned up to hear the result and, in some cases, to speak out against the idea before the decision was made (including Alastair, who represented the three of us, and Kim who represented the KPR residents).

Despite our long list of objections, despite the clear and unambiguous view of Westminster's planning committee that this was a flawed application and even despite one of the local councillors over the border in Brent admitting this was an "imperfect" application, the committee still decided to plough ahead and pass the application nonetheless. Sadly, we still believe the committee are wrong on this one.

There is much more than could be said, but we'll leave it at that for now.

A massive thanks to all the residents who have supported the campaign and, particularly, to those who were able to turn out on a wet and windy night in Wembley to hear the verdict. It was your commitment which has made such a difference throughout the last few months.

We hope to meet with many of you over the next few weeks to discuss the matter.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Maida Vale Area Forum

2010-03-01T17:52:00.003Z

Apologies for the short notice, but the next Maida Vale Area Forum takes place tonight at the Paddington Academy on Marylands Road from 6.30pm.

The topics under discussion will be:

Recycling
The Council's proposed road/pavement improvement plan for 2010/2011
Insulating homes
The Mayor's Transport Plan

Do come along if you can!

Jan

Kilburn Park Road: Planning Application

2010-02-25T17:15:00.001Z

Sad to report that Brent Planning Committee passed the application last night.

We'll write more soon ...

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Site Visit

2010-02-19T21:44:00.001Z

We've just been informed (at quite late notice) that the Brent planning committee who will be deciding on the Kilburn Park Road roundabout proposal next Thursday will be undertaking a site visit tommorrow (Saturday) around noon.

If any residents, wish to bring up any issues with them, please do feel free to be in the area at around that time! We will also be too.

Jan and Alastair

Paddington Sports Club: Planning Application

2010-02-17T23:00:00.003Z

Planning officers at the Council have now confirmed that the planning application for Paddington Sports Club will be heard next Thursday, 24th February, starting at 6.30pm.

The papers for the hearing have now been published. Planning officers, having considered the application, have recommended refusal on the grounds of (i) potential to harm the character and appearance of the area and (ii) potential to harm the amenity of the residents living closest by.

The full papers are available here.

The final decision rests with the planning committee (who can choose to accept or ignore officers recommendation next Thursday). Please do feel free to come along if you wish - the meeting is open to all. We will be there.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

New Approach to Estate Repairs Launched by CityWest

2010-02-15T21:51:00.002Z

Last month, CityWest Homes launched a new handyman repair service which local residents can call on when they've got a problem in their Estates.

The repairman will be charged with improving estates throughout Westminster for those things that contractors don't normally do - things like painting of fences or gates, or repairing potholes and paving stones.

If you spot any issues that you think the handyman might be able to assist with, please do get in touch with the Estate Office.

Lee

Randolph Avenue: White Paint

2010-02-14T08:00:00.002Z

A number of residents have contacted us recently about the spillage of some white paint near the top of Randolph Avenue. The paint, spilt by unknown person or persons has stained the pavement and residents think it unsightly and quite rightly want it removed.

We've reported it to the cleaning people at the council and it will hopefully be removed shortly. The added complicated is, given that it is dry, it becomes much more difficult to get rid of. We should see movement soon!

Jan

Kilburn Park Road Planning Application: Date Set

2010-02-09T23:06:00.002Z

We've chased Brent and have been able to confirm that the decision on the roundabout application will be taken on 24th February at Brent Town Hall (Wembley) starting at 7pm.

We'll be in touch with more soon ....

Jan

Paddington Sports Club: Planning Application

2010-02-06T23:00:00.004Z

A number of local residents have been in touch with us over the last week or so regarding the recent planning application made by Paddington Sports Club.

The club is proposing the erection of a metal and canvass structure over two of its tennis courts (closest to the entrance of the club on Castellain Road). We understand that the structure might be up to 10m high (at its highest point).

As local Councillors, we would very much like to hear from any local residents who has a view on this issue. We have circulated a letter to residents on Delaware, Castellain and part of Elgin today to highlight that the application has been submitted and seeking comments (and encouraging comments to be provided to Council officers in the usual way).

If you are a local resident and would like to discuss the application, please get in touch (maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com). We'd be delighted to hear from you.

Alastair

PS And if you want to make comments to officers to be considered at the planning committee (when the application will be decided - and currently scheduled for towards the end of February), you should e-mail those to northplanningteam@westminster.gov.uk, marking it for the attention of the case officer, Robert Winkley. The reference is 09/10162/FULL.

Visit to the Yoga Centre

2010-02-05T23:07:00.003Z

Last Saturday, all three of us had the privilege of being able to visit (and take part in a class) at one of the many small businesses in our area, the Iyengar Yoga Institute on Randolph Avenue.

The Institute is well known throughout the area for its yoga classes which it puts on throughout the week for local residents in Maida Vale, St. John's Wood, Kilburn and beyond.

Personally, having never taken part in a yoga class before, I was a little apprehensive at first - however, it was much fun and it was great to see so many people taking part in the class (and quite early in the morning!)

All three of us would like to thank the Institute for the invitation and for the warm welcome we received.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Westminster committee

2010-02-03T23:35:00.003Z

Last week all three of us, along with many local residents, attended the Westminster Planning Committee considering the Kilburn Park Road roundabout application.

Although the committee had no formal powers, it was asked to consider the application as it stood and provide comments - comments which would be conveyed to Brent Council when they actually formally consider and decide on the application.

Alastair spoke on behalf of us, outlining our views on why the application as it currently stands should be re-considered. We talked, amongst other things, about the issues regarding light, overlooking, design, transportation, air pollution, noise, loss of the greenspace, the lack of an environmental assessment and parking.

We are very pleased that, following our representations, all four member of the committee agreed that Westminster Council should object to the application and recommend to Brent that it should not go ahead in its current form. In fact, the lanning committee were so concerned by the proposal that they specifically asked that Westminster's comments were toughened up to make it clear to Brent that they had real concerns about the roposs about the proposal - with the chairman commenting that had Westminster been asked to decide the application it would have been refused in its current state.

We are very glad that the committee agreed with us and it strengthens the case of local residents who believe that this proposal is inapropriate for Kilburn Park Road.

The next milestone will be the Brent Council meeting - due to be held in late February. We'll let you know when we have a date.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Thursday night committee

2010-01-27T14:07:00.003Z

Just a quick note to remind everyone who is interested - Westminster Council will be holding a planning meeting tomorrow evening at City Hall to consider the recent plans by Brent to build on the roundabout.

This will be a meeting where Westminster Council will consider the application on its merits and then will recommend what comments it will make (as an official, neighbouring borough) to Brent on the application. These comments will then go to the Brent planning committee which will actually make the decision next month.

We'll be attending as local Councillors and will be asking our colleagues at Westminster to agree that Brent's proposal is inappropriate for the area. If any local residents wish to turn up too, they would be more than welcome.

Jan, Alastair and Lee

Essendine Road: Undipping the dip ....

2010-01-24T09:39:00.005Z

Success! A number of local residents in Essendine Road have often been concerned about resemblance of the pavement near Wymering Road to a lake after bouts of heavy rain.

After long discussions with the Council we have been successful in getting the paving stones re-laid to reduce the problem in the future. Work started this week!

If you have any concerns about the pavements near where you live, please do get in touch - maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com

Alastair

Tollgate Gardens: Meet the Architects

2010-01-23T21:53:00.003Z

CityWest Homes have been in touch to say that they have organised a meeting for local Tollgate residents with the architects chosen to work with them over the next fews on the potential redevelopment.

JM Architects have been appointed (from a committee made up of residents and CityWest) to identify potential opportunities to improve Tollgate. They will work closely with local residents to draw up potential plans and see what can be done.

If you are a resident of Tollgate and want to find out more, please do go along. The meeting will be held on Saturday 6th February between 1pm and 3pm at Tollgate Hall.

Jan

Community Fund Update: New Police Car

2010-01-21T13:28:00.005Z

We're very pleased to say that the latest part of our community fund has been allocated to the joint purchase of a police car with Little Venice ward.

Over the last year and a half, many local residents have told us that, whilst they recognise that Maida Vale is already a very low crime area, that they would like to see more to be done to make it even safer. Last year, we used the community fund to bring in two additional City Guardians dedicated to Maida Vale ward, to reduce anti-social behaviour and make our streets cleaner and safer.

We've also been working for a number of months now with the police to identify how best we could use the fund to help them. They agreed that an additional car would be very useful for them throughout the area.

We'll let you know when the car hits the street!

Jan

Gritting situation

2010-01-12T23:01:00.007Z

We don't normally print part of Council press releases verbatim, but we thought this one was important:

"A national salt rationing scheme was imposed by the Government last Friday restricting supplies to individual councils, who have been ordered to cut gritting by 25%. Today that was extended to cuts ranging from 40 - 50%. The activation of the emergency national system of salt allocation means that normal gritting will not be possible due to dwindling stocks of salt.

Westminster, due to its central location with 1.1million daily visitors and 600,000 car journeys, normally aims to grit all its roads and pavements. It is therefore hit particularly hard by the restrictions which means its gritters are only able to spread around one sixth of the salt they normally do during the severe weather."

Before the introduction of the restrictions we were in touch with council officers regularly and did manage to get really icy patches in the ward (including a part of Maida Vale near a bus stop outside Dibdin House) re-salted when residents reported them to us.

Jan, Alastair and Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Next Steps

2010-01-09T08:37:00.003Z

Later today we will be distributing a short letter to all residents of Kilburn Park Road and Carlton Vale with further information on the planning application for the roundabout at the junction of their roads.

The next steps in this process are likely to be the following:

Make your views known in writing to Brent Council by 18th January
Residents who wish to make comments have just over a week to send them to Brent. You can either send your letter by e-mail (ben.martin@brent.gov.uk) or by post to Ben Martin, Planning Department, Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley, HA9 9HD. Residents should quote reference 09/2500 in their correspondence with the Council. All letters should be received by Brent by 18th January.

Come along to a discuss at Westminster Council on the issue on 28th January
We are pleased to say that we have been able to convince Westminster Council to also hold a preliminary planning meeting on 28th January to discuss the issue. As a neighbouring body, the Council will also formally submit comments to Brent on the application (as well as all local residents). These comments will be from the planning officers in Westminster and based on the views that they have heard from local residents. All local residents are welcome to attend this meeting at 6.30pm on 28th January at City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, SW1P.

This meeting will make no decisions - it will simply be an opportunity for Westminster Council to discuss the issue formally and, then, from those discussions, the Council (as a corporate body) will make representations to Brent.

Next Steps
Once Brent have received all of the comments, they will convene a planning meeting which will formally make a decision on the proposal. We understand that this is expected to be 24th February, although Brent are still to confirm this. We'll let you know as soon as we know.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Consultation Letter

2010-01-08T23:00:00.003Z

Here is the text of the planning application sent out by Brent just before Christmas regarding the Kilburn Park Road Roundabout planning application:

"PLANNING APPLICATION - THIS MAY AFFECT YOU

South Kilburn Partnership has recently made a planning application to the Council.: The application relates to:-
South Kilburn Regeneration Roundabout Site, Carlton Vale, London, NW6

The application proposes:-
Demolition of garages adjacent to Bronte House and erection of 2 part three-, five- and seven-storey blocks to provide 133 dwellings (comprising flats & maisonettes, including 75 affordable units) with associated landscaping and amenity space on roundabout adjoining Kilburn Park Road and Carlton Vale, NW6, including removal of pedestrian footbridge and stopping-up of western side of existing roundabout

The Council now has to make a decision on whether or not to allow the proposal to go ahead. Your views on the matter are important and the attached leaflet explains how you can now get involved in the decision-making process.

If intending to view the documents on our website, the images should be available to view by 14 December, 2009 (or by the next working day if that date is a public holiday). Use the link "Comment on this planning application" to submit your comments online. Note that if you provide us with a mobile number and email address, we will send you standard text updates and notification letters by email regarding this application.

If you wish to comment on this application, your views will be taken into account, provided they are received, in writing by letter, email or online, within 35 days of the date of this letter. Please be advised that under Section 69 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, all applications are available to view via a public register or electronically on line and may be viewed in either format at our offices. Should you comment on this application we undertake to keep you fully informed of progress. We shall endeavour to acknowledge any comments received within 5 working days of receipt and subsequently advise you of the decision.

If you are unsure of anything, please telephone the planning officer whose name and direct-line telephone number appear at the top right-hand corner of this letter. Or you can now text your query to 07781 482464. We are here to help."

The explanation of the proposal is interesting for the omission of any reference to the removal of the roundabout, the loss of the trees and the changing of the traffic flows - key issues, as Brent know, for the local residents who have made their views known to date.

We will be distributing a letter to residents tomorrow from ourselves which provides further context and information for local residents who wish to comment.

If you are a resident of Kilburn Park Road and wish to discuss this, please do get in touch at maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T09:52:00.003Z

Season's Greetings from all of us - we hope you have a good one!

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Community Fund Update: Trip for Maida Vale Kids

2009-12-24T09:39:00.002Z

One of the biggest messages coming back from the Community Fund consultation was the need to ensure that kids in Maida Vale had something to do.

As a result, one of the projects we have agreed to support is a trip to the Council's highly-regarded leisure facility just outside of London, Sayer's Croft (more info: here).

The trip is completely free for any child living in Maida Vale between 10 and 14, and will take place during February half term. If you know of anyone who would like to take part then please contact the Council on 7641 2012.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Consultation Letters due out ...

2009-12-22T22:24:00.004Z

We've heard today that the Kilburn Park Road application by Brent has now been checked to make sure it is valid (the first step in any planning application) and that consultation letters will be dropping on the door mats of nearby properties in the next couple of days.

As soon as we have seen a copy and gone through the detail we will write to all residents with information on, should they wish, how they can comment (and how those comments are best structured).

As many local residents are away at this time of year or are busy with other things, we have been concerned about the timing of the consultation letters being sent out. At our request, Brent have agreed to extend the consultation period from 21 days to 35 to account for the Christmas period. We think this is very sensible and thank Brent for their willingness to do so.

We'll keep you posted.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Paddington Rec: Meeting

2009-12-21T08:09:00.008Z

Last week, we attended the quarterly Paddington Rec meeting with Council officers. This meeting, which is held in the Pavilion, is the time when local Councillors, officers and representatives of Nuffield Health (who manage the Rec) come together to discuss issues and developments. It's also our opportunity to feedback everything local residents have told us about the Rec over the previous few months.

There are a number of things to report:

Cafe Extension: is on track for completion in Summer, as previously reported;
Wifi in Cafe: Westminster will be installing wifi in the cafe from early in the New Year, following a request from a resident, via Jan;
Environmental Area: has won an award from the Institute of Groundskeepers - this is great news which is a testament to all the hardwork designing and constructing this area;
Bowling Pavilion: planning permission has now been obtained for the upgrade of the Bowling Pavilion - work is scheduled to be completed for the re-opening of the Green in Spring;
Anti-social behaviour: The police were pleased to report that the Rec remains very quiet with no incidents being reported recently - regular patrols, regular visits with the mobile police station and a number of banning orders against known troublemakers all seem to be helping this;
Leaf Blowers: a number of residents in Randolph Avenue have raised concerns about the practice of using mechanical leaf blowers in the Rec in recent months. We asked the officers to undertake a thorough assessment of their use and whether any alternative provision could be put in place. We are pleased to report that we agreed to stop the use of the blowers during the weekends, which we hope is a helpful compromise for those who are concerned.

If you have any comments on the Rec, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us (maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com). We'll be happy to raise them on your behalf at the next meeting, which will be held in the Spring.

Lee

Paddington Waterways Meeting

2009-12-21T08:09:00.005Z

Last week we held another of our regular meetings with our local amenity society, Paddington Waterways. We were able to talk with a number of aspects of the Council's work, its relationship with local organisations and how things can be improved.

Paddington Waterways does fantastic work in our local community, looking out for and protecting the interests of residents. It is always looking for people to get involved and help out - if you want to, check out their website www.paddingtonwaterways.com.

Alastair

Thames Water: Progress

2009-12-19T08:53:00.004Z

We wrote last month on Thames's rocky ride at the latest Area Forum in Maida Vale, where they were repeatedly questioned by residents and local Councillors on a number of aspects of their local policy.

Since then, we are very pleased to be able to report further progress.

I represented all three of us at a meeting in early December held at City Hall where Thames were questioned once again by Councillors and the public regarding their policies. I emphasised the effect that some of their policies were having on the local area - the regular breaking of the mains pipe on Kilburn High Road and the flooding in Shirland Road and Kilburn Park Road. It was a useful meeting and Thames seemed willing to listen.

Since then further meetings have been held between the Council and the local residents group leading on this issue, Maida Flood Action. On the flooding issue, we are very pleased that Thames have now accepted the case that more work needs to be done and are no working through the data collected by the Group to work out next steps. Slowly, but steadily, we are getting there!

Jan

Award for Tube Station

2009-12-13T20:29:00.002Z

Congratulations to Maida Vale tube for winning a National Railway Heritage award for its modernisation last year. More details can be found here.

Congratulations to TfL (even if it was late!)

Lee

Thames Meeting: This Tuesday

2009-11-29T18:35:00.003Z

One thing we didn't write about a couple of weeks ago was the inquisition of Thames Water at the Maida Vale Area Forum, particularly over the flooding earlier this year.

Thames spent over an hour being questioned over their current approach to a number of issues in Westminster North. There was some pretty heavy questioning from local residents and the local flood action group about what they intended to do about flooding. We also spent some time taking them to task about the repeated failures of pipes under Kilburn High Road in the last eighteen months (as well as correcting them on their assertion that the Victorian Mains Replacement works had gone smoothly in Maida Vale - something a little bit at odds with reality ...)

It is fair to say that many in the audience were not terribly convinced by Thames comments on the flooding issue. We raised the issue of both Kilburn Park Road and Shirland Road residents who had been affected by this - Thames position seemed to boil down to the fact that they can't breath without the permission of the water regulator, Ofwat, and they will need to talk at length with them before anything can be done. This was likely to include many months of evidence gathering.

After the meeting we requested from Thames more detailed information about what they can and cannot do without Ofwat's permission. It should make an interesting read and we'll let you know as soon as we receive it.

In the meantime, Thames are also appearing in front of Westminster Council's Built Environment scrutiny committee this Tuesday (1st December). The meeting starts at 7pm - so if you want to go along and watch the grilling, please do. It will be held in City Hall, Victoria Street.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Planning Application in ...

2009-11-29T18:32:00.003Z

We've just heard that Brent Council formally lodged the planning application for Kilburn Park Road on Friday ...

It will take several days to work through the system and then a little while to be deemed a valid application but, on the assumption that it is, Brent will likely send out consultation letters to Kilburn Park Road in the next few weeks.

We'll keep you posted.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Torridon House: Update

2009-11-22T09:50:00.003Z

Following discussions with residents over the last few months, CityWest let us know last week that they now have approval from their contracts board to tak forwar the asphalting of the walkways and tenanted balconies.

Over the next few weeks the works orders will be raised, with the intention that works will get going around February of next year.

If you are a resident of Torridon House and wish to discuss this, the next meeting of the steering group is this Tuesday (24th November) at 5.30pm in the Torridon House meeting room.

Alastair

Tollgate Gardens: Reminder

2009-11-21T14:10:00.003Z

Just a quick message to all residents in Tollgate Gardens - don't forget the meetings held this Tuesday and Wednesday to talk about the ideas that three different architects have had for improving the estate.

The meetings will both be held in the Tollgate Hall - drop in between 10am and 3pm on Tuesday (24th) or 5pm - 7.30pm on Wednesday (24th).

Jan

Kilburn Park Road: Public Meeting

2009-11-16T21:29:00.002Z

Last Friday evening was the meeting we organised for Brent Council to come along and talk about their proposal for the Kilburn Park Road roundabout with local residents.

There was a fantastic attendance from residents living close to the roundabout - many thanks to everyone who come on a cold, wet and windy Friday night.

At the beginning we gave Brent the opportunity to be able to set out their plans, and they spent 20 minutes or so outlining what they were proposing to do and why. They had also brought along their architects, who was able to go through a (somewhat rosy) view of what the new development would look like - and also provided further information on the wider South Kilburn redevelopment proposals.

It is fair to say that almost every resident who spoke expressed concerns or reservations about the proposals at they currently stand. Many residents were at pains to point out that they supported the improvement of South Kilburn in principle, but seemed unconvinced that this was the best way to begin that. For those residents who weren't able to join us, concerns included:

Disappointment about the lack of consultation: Brent was tackled about its failure to consult until just a few weeks before it begins to apply for planning permission to make the changes.
Discussion about the increased number of people living close to Kilburn Park Road: Brent confirmed that 136 flats is the first part of a wider redevelopment. Overall, across a wider area of South Kilburn, Brent intend to build an additional 1,200 more homes than are there today.
Concern about the impact of traffic if the roundabout was removed: Brent confirmed that the loss of the roundabout will mean that the northern carriageway of Kilburn Park Road is brought nearer to the houses at the top of the road by creating a 2 lane carriageway along the entire length of the road. Residents expressed concern about noise and vibration as a result, and the problem of vehicles having to stop and start whilst waiting for the traffic lights to go green.
Concern about the quality of the design: A number of local residents expressed concern about the quality of the design of the property – including whether the colour and materials will fit in with the way Kilburn Park Road looks today.
Problems with the height of the new flats: Although most of Brent’s publicity materials shows a five storey block of flats, Brent were challenged as at top of the road, near Carlton Vale, the flats would be as high as seven storeys. This could have over-shadowing consequences for those residents living in properties in Kilburn Park Road particularly the lower floors.
Increased traffic coming from the new development: Brent have suggested that around 30 – 40 car movements are expected during rush hour if the flats are built on the roundabout. They were challenged to also admit that, if the entire South Kilburn area is redeveloped, an additional 600 car movements are expected during peak hours in the area.
Greater problems of parking: Brent are only intending to provide around 50 parking spaces for the new development. This means, if all the new residents of the flats have a car – as they will be allowed to – another 70 – 80 cars will be looking for parking elsewhere. A large proportion may try to park on Kilburn Park Road.
No guarantee that the building of the new flats would mean the removal of the tower blocks: Brent have indicated that the new 136 flats on the roundabout need to be built first so that new properties can be found for the people living in the nearby tower blocks. What they have not agreed to do, however, is explicitly link the building of the new flats with the removal of the existing tower blocks during the planning process. Whilst there is an intent by Brent to do both, there is, therefore, no absolute guarantee that the tower blocks will come down.
Ensuring any proposals minimise crime: Brent were invited to comment further on the designs of the new build with regard to ‘designing our crime. Many residents were unconvinced by their responses to these most important issues.

Brent also announced that they intended to submit the planning application to make the changes in the next couple of weeks. At that point, the formal process for determining what will happen will begin.

We'll write again when the application goes in to outline next steps for those who wish to comment on the proposals.

Even though we disagree with them on this issue, our thanks to Brent for coming to Maida Vale at our request and outlining their proposals. Many thanks also to our chair, Melvyn and - most importantly - to all local residents who attended.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Lanark Road: Water Pressure update

2009-11-16T21:22:00.003Z

An update on the water pressure issue in Lanark Road which we wrote about last month ....

We're pleased to say that CityWest Homes have made some progress on this issue. On 30th October they replaced the main pipe between Atholl House and Maida Vale, which they hope will improve the supply to residents in that block. Pressure logs have also been installed to check and, if the results prove that supply has improved, works will then be carried out elsewhere in the street.

We'll let you know when we find out.

Alastair

Maida Vale Police Team: Latest Update

2009-11-14T23:21:00.003Z

The Maida Vale local police team have sent us their latest update:

Priorities: Police priorities in oura rea remain tackling anti-social behaviour in Elgin Avenue and the Rec, along with a continuing campaign to reduce residential burglary;
Elgin Parade: groups of youngsters have continued to gather at this area in the evening, with some anti-social behaviour occurring as a result. The mobile police station has been deployed as a visible deterrent and have spent time trying to work with some of these young people to find them alternative thigns to do (including a number who have been introduced to the Army Cadet scheme). Further work continues.
Paddignton Rec: The Rec remains, on the whole, quiet. The mobile police station has been deployed on a regular basis to both deter any anti-social behaviour and to provide a point of contact for the public. A total of 13 people have been banned in the last 12 months from the Rec for poor behaviour.

As local Councillors, we know that the top priority of many residents around Elgin Avenue, Lanark Road and Hamilton Court is tackling the youth congregation issue. Further work has been undertaken since this update was provided to us and we will continue to press for a resolution. As part of our determination to solve this problem, we have allocated monies from the Maida Vale Community Fund to support two additional uniformed City Guardians in the area until March 2010.

Jan

Dear Karen: Lancaster Gate is two miles that way >>>

2009-11-14T19:48:00.005Z

As many regular readers will know, we don't often mention our political opponents on this blog, but on this occasion we couldn't resist ...

Short note to Karen Buck MP - thanks for the Maida Vale Labour leaflet through my door the other day.

What I'm struggling a bit with, though, is why you talk about making Lancaster Gate "an even better place to live". I'm sure that's wonderful, but we live in Maida Vale!

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: Meeting with Brent Councillors

2009-11-07T09:10:00.006Z

Yesterday morning we held a meeting with two senior Brent Councillors to discuss their plans to massively change Kilburn Park Road and build on the current roundabout.

We met close to the roundabout during rush hour to make sure that the Councillors were aware of the high volume of traffic which use it - and particularly the large number of buses (sometimes up to half a dozen a minute) which pass by. We were promised a report from Brent Council officers several weeks ago which apparently proves that the roundabout is not needed given the volume of traffic which uses it (something which we disagree with) - we are yet to receive that report.

We also took them down Kilburn Park Road to show how all local residents will be impacted by the potential changes. In addition, we highlighted many of the comments and concerns that local residents have raised in the last couple of weeks in their correspondence to us.

In addition, we have also raised our real concerns about the failure to involve Kilburn Park Road residents in these discussions at an earlier stage and the very short timeframe they are now giving local residents to comment - which really isn't acceptable.

We are grateful for the Councillors coming to Maida Vale and listening to our concerns. Although we don't expect to change their minds (and we understand that their overall goal is to remove some tower blocks which everyone accepts are pretty bad), it is important to try. We will ensure the views of local residents are paramount in their thinking going forward.

The next step for local residents is to attend the public open meeting at Essendine School on Friday 13th November between 6pm and 8.30pm. This will be you opportunity to question Brent Council officers and to let them know your thoughts on the plans.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Tollgate Gardens improvement: Meeting

2009-11-06T20:50:00.004Z

Local residents in Tollgate Gardens should have recently received a letter from CityWest Homes telling them about the next stage of the proposed redevelopment.

Two more meetings are planned over the next few weeks to show residents what might be possible for the future of Tollgate. Three different architects have been asked to study the space available on the Estate and give their views about what could be improved. If you are a local resident and interested in their ideas go and have a look -

between 10am and 3pm on Tuesday 24th November, or
between 5pm and 7.30pm on Wednesday 25th November.

Both of the events will take place in the Hall of Tollgate Tower.

At the moment, these are just ideas - and it is for the residents to now give their input. A few weeks ago we brought the Cabinet Member for Housing to Tollgate to answer questions from local residents - and she confirmed that all local residents could have a say in what happens next. Now is the time to do so!

Jan

Kilburn Park Road: Public Meeting

2009-11-05T08:24:00.006Z

Thanks to all local residents who have got in touch with us over the last 10 days to give their views and thoughts on Brent Council's plans.

We have had a good number of responses and it is clear that you do not support the removal of the roundabout to build 135 flats. You have raised concerns about traffic, parking, bus vibrations, the loss of green space, the loss of trees, the ability for the road to cope with that number of additional flats, the proposed traffic light junction, overlooking and overshadowing, amongst other things. A number of residents who have lived on the road for many years told us about 40 years ago when the road was last a four-way junction - and how they did not want to go back to that.

We have also arranged a public meeting especially for Maida Vale where local residents will have the opportunity to question Brent Council on their plans. This will be held on Friday 13th November between 6pm and 8.30pm in Essendine School on Essendine Road. It will include a presentation on the plans from Brent, before an open session which will allow any resident to ask about anything.

We understand that Brent are intending to make a planning application to build the flats within weeks. Although everyone will have the chance to comment during that planning process, we really feel this is not good form. It indicates that Brent are not terribly interested in changing their plans following feedback from Kilburn Park Road residents - people who will live just feet away from the new flats if this goes ahead.

Given the short time frame, if you are a local resident and have views, it is important that you attend the meeting on Friday 13th November. We look forward to seeing you there.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

PS Local residents will have received a letter in the last few days which advertises the public meeting on the 13th (an image of the letter is above). A number of residents have asked who this is from - it is a letter from Brent Council, although you can hardly see their logo in the top right of the letter. The letter advertises two meetings. As local Councillors, we recommend that you attend the Friday meeting only. The Tuesday meeting will be information about the plans for the wider South Kilburn regeneration project - which stretches from Maida Vale all the way up to Queen's Park. If you have specific concerns about the roundabout proposal, it is the Friday meeting that you want.

Lauderdale Parade

2009-10-27T21:05:00.003Z

Several weeks ago, local residents raised the issue of the cleanliness of Lauderdale Parade.

This is one of those difficult to crack problems, not least because it is often due to the carelessness of students at the City of Westminster College across the road. Every so often, a reminder is needed.

As a result, the area had a deep clean a few days ago and the street cleaning teams have been asked to pay special attention to the Parade. Four extra bins have also been installed to try to stop the problem at source (dependent, of course, on individuals actually using them). The local college, who to their credit have always been willing to engage and anxious to mitigate any issues caused by their students, are re-inforcing the message that littering is unacceptable.

The cleansing teams have been asked to monitor the situation over the next few weeks to ensure that the issue has been resolved.

As your local Councillors, we are keen to help with any issues on your street. If you have any problems, please do not hesitate to get in touch. And if you live near Lauderdale Parade, do let us know if you still think there are issues with the cleanliness.

Jan

Brent Council planning massive changes to Kilburn Park Road

2009-10-24T08:11:00.005+01:00

On Thursday night we attended a hastily convened meeting, at our request, with planning and housing officers from Brent Council at Westminster City Hall on Victoria Street.

A little while ago, as local Councillors, we had got wind of new plans being promoted by Brent to regenerate South Kilburn. This is a long-standing project which Brent have been naturally keen to do for many years, with a number of false starts and unsuccessful attempts.

Another plan has now emerged and Brent Council seem to have decided that it must be all pushed through exceptionally quickly. Irrespective of the merits of the plans, this is most alarming and shows a lack of respect for those residents on our side of the border who have not yet been publicly consulted about the plans. This message was conveyed in no uncertain terms at the meeting on Thursday to Brent.

Details of the plans are still being worked through, but we can see that they have the potential to have a huge effect on local residents in Maida Vale, particularly in Kilburn Park Road and Carlton Vale.
The headlines of the first stage of the plans are:

to block off the roundabout at the top of Kilburn Park Road: and instead create a four-way junction controlled by traffic lights;
to build 135 flats on the roundabout site: which will mean the loss of the open space, the grass and the 40 trees;
to narrow parts of Kilburn Park Road and Carlton Vale: which will bring existing traffic a little bit closer to the houses currently in Kilburn Park Road and may reduce traffic capacity on the part of Carlton Vale which is just outside Westminster.

This is all part of a plan to remove the large high-rise tower blocks, in stages and over a number of years, which are such an eyesore at the moment.

We asked a lot of questions for Brent and went through their plans in as much detail as we could in two hours. We have further questions and need to get more answers from Brent about just how affected local residents, particularly in Kilburn Park Road will be.

The most single disappointing thing was that Brent Council, throughout this process, have not sought to engage with local residents in Maida Vale on plans which could hugely change our area. After quite a lot of questioning, it also seems like there is about 3 - 4 weeks left now for Brent to do some consultation with Maida Vale residents before the planning application has to go in. This is absolutely unacceptable.

The officers from Brent asked our views about how to consult with local residents. Bearing in mind the limited time that is now left, we have asked Brent to get in touch with local residents as soon as they can and also to set up a meeting so that they can present their views to all interested residents. Affected residents should receive further information from Brent shortly.

In the meantime, we will today be distributing a letter to all potentially affected residents alerting them to these plans and asking for their initial feedback on it. If you are a resident in the area, please do let us know what you think. Clearly the aspiration to improve South Kilburn is a laudable one, but is the loss of the roundabout, the green space and the potential effect on traffic a price worth paying for this? We need your views, as residents, as soon as possible.

Alastair, Jan and Lee

Paddington Rec Environmental Area wins award!

2009-10-24T08:02:00.002+01:00

Great news for Paddington Rec!

The new Environmental Area, which was officially opened by the Lord Mayor last month, won the Institute of Groundsmanship's 'National Environmental Project of the Year' award this week.

The Institute, which is the leading professional organisation for grounds maintenance, commended the Council for bringing an area previously not accessible to the public back into use and in promoting nature in the way that it does.

This is excellent news and shows just how far the Council is going in transforming Paddington Rec.

Jan

Neighbourhood Watch: Does your street want one?

2009-10-18T21:45:00.003+01:00

Westminster City Council and the local Maida Vale police team have been working closely with groups of local residents over the last few months to set up Neighbourhood Watches in our area.

Neighbourhood Watches, as you will know, have been around for years in an official form - and help both reduce crime and foster a sense of community in an area like ours, where meeting neighbours is often more difficult than you think!

In the last couple of weeks, the police and Council have worked with residents in Wheatfield House, Kilburn Park Road and Essendine Road to discuss the possibility of setting up a neighbourhood watch.

If you are interested in doing the same for your street, do get in touch to let us know.

Lee

Maida Vale Station In Bloom

2009-10-15T23:09:00.003+01:00

Just a quick note to say a belated congratulations to the staff of Maida Vale tube station for coming 3rd over the Summer in the 'Stations In Bloom' competition.

Thanks also to everyone in Paddington Rec who were able to help the tube station out with some planters for the competition.

Jan

Kilburn High Road: open!

2009-10-14T17:50:00.003+01:00

Finally, after over a week of repairs, Kilburn High Road re-opened to traffic this afternoon.

Although the water main burst was technically in Camden (and the road diversion was on the other side of the Edgware Road), a number of Maida Vale residents have been in touch to say how inconvenient the road closure has been for them.

I must admit my eyebrows to have been raised last night when I had another look at progress - due to the road being still cordoned off despite all the tarmac having been replaced and the lines having already been re-painted. A quick e-mail was fired off to officers who got in touch with Camden to find out what the problem was (we had heard rumours it would be closed until Friday to allow anti-skid marks to be painted). Thankfully, Camden have been sensible and re-opened it today.

Lee

Kilburn Park Road: walkabout

2009-10-11T19:31:00.003+01:00

Last week I met with residents from Kilburn Park Road for a walkabout to discuss issues and problems they wanted to raise.

Both as a Council and as local Councillors, we've spent a lot of time over the last few years on KPR, which has always been a road in need of a bit of TLC. We've successfully had the road resurfaced from top to bottom, spent time trying to reduce the amount of graffiti on the Brent side, installed hanging baskets, got some of the drains unblocked and cracked down on rubbish dumping. We think Kilburn Park Road is looking better than it has ever done!

From the walkabout, we've taken up a couple of issues with regards to parking and buses near the junction with Shirland Road, along with trying to sort out some wayward signs that need removing (and unblocking again the drains).

As your local Councillors, we are here to do walkabouts with any residents who would like them. Please get in touch (maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com) to arrange.

Jan

Lanark Road: water pressure

2009-10-11T16:27:00.003+01:00

Over the last few months a number of residents have contacted us regarding the low water pressure in a number of CityWest blocks on Lanark Road. Residents have told us how, intermittently, the water coming from their taps has been insufficient - particularly at peak times of demand, such as in the morning, when lots of people are wanting showers at once.

We've been working closely with both CityWest Homes and Thames Water over the last few months to find out what the problem is - including, during August, having a water pressure monitor installed on one of the properties affected to see what the readings told us.

We are very pleased to hear that an agreement has now been come to between CityWest and Thames regarding taking this issue forward - and letters have gone out to residents to this end. CityWest has agreed to take the issue forward over the next few months and work up ways to reduce the impact on local residents. We'll keep pushing for a resolution.

Lee

Low cost home ownership event

2009-10-08T10:06:00.002+01:00

Just a note (at short notice) for all residents who might be interested in getting on the property ladder ...

The Council is organising an open event today between 1200 and 8pm to provide more information about low cost home ownership and discounted rents within the borough. There will also be information about shared ownership and 'Rent to HomeBuy' flats which will be coming available in Westminster over the next year.

The event is at the Abbey Centre, Great Smith Street, Victoria - do pop along if you would like to find out more.

Alastair

Water Leak on Kilburn High Road

2009-10-08T09:42:00.004+01:00

Local residents near the top of the ward will probably now be aware that a water mains burst yesterday on Kilburn High Road (between Belsize Road and Greville Road), causing the road to be shut and quite a lot of water to leak.

Although the leak occurred just outside of Westminster, there has been some impact on Maida Vale residents - not least with the road closure, but also some likely damage to the public highway and properties on our side of the border. Westminster officers have been working through the situation since yesterday, including putting in place a full diversion for Kilburn High Road traffic. For the moment, we understand that there has been no loss of pressure to properties such as Tollgate - which is good news.

Westminster officers will be inspecting damage today and will seek to sort out any problems as quickly as possible.

This is the second mains burst in this part of the world in the last year, which does seem to suggest that Thames Water needs to look more closely at its pipe network. Westminster will certainly be making the case for this.

Jan

Paddington Rec: Fitness Centre works about to begin ...

2009-09-26T14:24:00.002+01:00

As many local residents are aware, Westminster Council has been progressively upgrading and improving the facilities in Paddington Rec over the last few years, forthe benefit of local residents and visitors.

With the Pavilion looking better than ever after its return to use earlier this year (and the Environmental Area opening two weeks ago), work will shortly be starting on the Fitness Centre. From this Wednesday, hoardings will begin to be erected for the work, which is due to begin on 5th October.

When completed, there will be a new gym, dance studio, breakout area and treatment/consultation rooms, along with a refurbishment of the existing cafe.

We're really looking forward to the works finishing!

Alastair

Graffiti Watch

2009-09-20T15:50:00.006+01:00

Over the last few weeks we've reported the following graffiti:

on the phonebox on the corner of Biddulph Road and Elgin Avenue;
on the postbox near the corner of Essendine Road and Morshead Road;
on the phonebox on the corner of Sutherland Avenue and Castellain Road;
on the stairwell of Tollgate House;
on the phonebox close the entrance of the Rec on Randolph Avenue;
on the Brent side of Kilburn Park Road;
in the garden area on the corner of Randolph Avenue and Carlton Vale.

If you spot any graffiti, please do let us know (maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com). Our new street guardians are also keeping a close watch on graffiti and anti-social behaviour - we'll continue to get rid of it as quickly as we can!

Lee

Tollgate Gardens improvements: Update

2009-09-19T10:21:00.002+01:00

In July, we reported on a CityWest having secured some money to suggest improvements to Tollgate Gardens Estate. All Tollgate residents will have received a letter from CityWest giving further information and letting them know about the next steps.

CityWest have now let us know that they will be holding a meeting shortly to discuss the proposal with residents. This will be your chance to ask questions and get involved as the improvement proposals are developed.

The meeting will be held on Thursday 1st October between 6pm and 7.30pm in the Resident's Hall of Tollgate House. If you are a resident of Tollgate Gardens, do come along if you want to find out more.

Jan

PS The CityWest officer who is coordinating the improvements plan, Vince, will also now be based in Tollgate Hall every Thursday afternoon to talk to local residents. Just pop by if you want to talk about anything on this plan going forward.

Bowling Green

2009-09-14T22:51:00.003+01:00

Last week, we were very glad to attend this year's final Tuesday night open bowls session organised by Maida Vale Bowls club.

It was great to see many of the local residents who have worked so hard to prove that the bowling green has a future - and great to see how their bowling abilities had improved so much over the Summer months. Sadly, the same can't be said for either myself or Jan!

The club are keen to come back again next year and, pending the decision being taken by the Council about the future of the green, are seeking feedback on what could be changed and improved. If you have used the green this year and have any thoughts you want to feed through, do get in touch with them: info@maidavalebowls.org.uk.

Lee and Jan

PS The latest user numbers for the green over the Summer has shown that over 800 people have played bowls there since May - an absolutely fantastic result! The green remains open for another few weeks - so do get another few games in while you have the chance!

Paddington Rec: Opening of the Environmental Area

2009-09-10T21:29:00.006+01:00

Last Saturday saw the official opening of the new Environmental Area at Paddington Rec in a ceremony attended by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Duncan Sandys.

Tucked at the back of the park, near the car park entrance on Carlton Vale, the Environmental Area is an exciting new addition to the Rec and has been in gestation now for a number of months. Along with wild flowers and plants, the crowning glory of the area is a new set of ponds which, it is hoped, will become a haven for local animals, insects and pondlife.

It was a brilliant morning to see how many local people came down to watch the opening and to do a spot of fishing in the pond!

The pond will primarily be opened for local schools and children's groups to come and enjoy the wildlife - but do take a walk through to see the new hidden gem within the Rec!

Jan

Tesco Express: Result

2009-09-10T20:49:00.003+01:00

Monday was the decision day for Tesco's application to vary some of the conditions to its 2008 alcohol licence (previous story here).

We are very pleased to report that the two judges hearing the appeal threw out Tesco's request. That means they will still have to have staff on the forecourt at certain times and will also not be allowed to offer cut price drink offers in the store.

Jan

Adidas Women's 5K Challenge

2009-09-05T08:03:00.003+01:00

On Sunday I will be taking part in the Adidas Women’s 5K Challenge in Hyde Park as I have done every year since I set off the runners as Lord Mayor of Westminster in 2003.

In previous years I have taken part to raise money for my own Charity ‘Bowel Cancer’. I wanted then, and I continue to seek, to raise the profile of this terrible disease and to purchase diagnostic equipment to aid its earlier diagnosis.......... which can often mean a cure. I have bought the machine for St Marys Hospital and it has proved a great success. By taking part in the Adidas Challenge each year I have continues to raise funds which has enabled me to buy further upgrade pieces for the machine as they have become available.

The Friends of St Marys Hospital Paddington have always looked after ‘my’ money which has enabled me to spend every single penny I have raised on ‘Bowel Cancer’. Thus none of the funds I have raised has been used for expenses or to fund any kind of administration fees.

This year I want to say a big thank you to the’ Friends of St Marys’ for the great kindness and generosity that they have shown to me and so I shall be taking part in this challenge to raise funds for them. This year every penny that I raise will go to them for their work at St Marys Paddington where it will be used to provide facilities, amenities and equipment, for patients that may not be available on the National Health Service.

I know there must be many demands on your purse at this time but if you could see your way to sending something I would be most grateful. Your donation would be greatly appreciated and very wisely used.

Thank you for taking the time to read this

YOU CAN DONATE ONLINE AT www.justgiving.com/SueandJanFriends

Jan

Thames: Just checking ...

2009-09-03T21:32:00.005+01:00

Following the re-appear of a Thames hole in Randolph Avenue a few weeks ago, we've spent some time trying to confirm that there are no further plans to complete more Victorian mains replacement in our area ....

.... and we are very pleased to confirm it! A few end of project 'snagging' activities are being undertaken (such as Randolph Avenue - and also the one on Maida Vale). After that, they are going to bother other parts of London.

A warm and happy wave goodbye!

Lee

Wymering Mansions: Garden Party

2009-08-27T22:47:00.004+01:00

Last Saturday, we were very glad to be invited to the annual Wymering Mansions Garden Party, held in the lovely gardens between Wymering and Morshead Mansions.

Wymering obviously have a way with the weather - it was another lovely day and the party was fantastic; very well attended, great food and a brilliant concert by some local residents!

Thanks to everyone at Wymering for such a great afternoon. A special thanks goes to Robert and Fiona who have helped to organise it for a number of years (as Chair of the residents association) - they are moving shortly and will be very much missed!

Jan and Lee

Paddington Rec: Environmental Area Opening

2009-08-25T22:19:00.002+01:00

We are very pleased to report that the new Environmental Area in Paddington Rec is due to be opened on 12th September.

We were only talking to a group of residents on Saturday at the Wymering Mansions Garden Party who asked us when the area was due to be opened - so it's great news that it won't now be too long!

The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Duncan Sandys, will be on hand to open the environmental area. Do come along between 10.30am and 2.30pm if you want to see what Groundwork have been up to over the last few months.

Jan

Elgin and Randolph: Resurfacing again?

2009-08-24T12:04:00.004+01:00

Several residents have been in touch to enquire as to why the Council spent two days last week resurfacing parts of Elgin Avenue and Randolph Avenue which had only been done a couple of months ago.

Having taken up the issue with the Transportation Department, they have been applying new anti-skid surfaces to the approaches of the junctions on both roads. Although it might look like a doubling of work, the Council waits a minimum of a month from when a new surface is originally laid down to allow any excess bitumen to be removed by traffic wear. Once a sufficient time period has elapsed, the anti-skid surface can then be applied.

Alastair

The Thames Hole Patrol: Randolph Avenue

2009-08-23T23:14:00.004+01:00

Residents of Randolph Avenue will know that Thames appear to have again taken up semi-permanent occupation of a plot close to the junction with Elgin Avenue. As a result, we took this up with the Council several weeks ago and asked them to find out what was going on.

Apparently, the works are the last parts of the Victorian mains replacement programme that caused us so many problems last year - with the completion elsewhere in our area, some meter works needed to be completed underneath Randolph Avenue.

What is unacceptable, however, is that Thames (and their subcontractors) didn't provide the Council with information about this site when they should have done. Naughty boys and girls. As a result, they have been fined by the Council. Additionally, because they have run far over their intended timescales, the Council is also intending to penalise them for "unduly prolonging their works".

One day Thames will learn that inconveniencing local residents is not acceptable.

Lee

BBC Maida Vale Studios: Chiller update

2009-08-19T21:22:00.004+01:00

Last month we wrote about a temporary chiller unit which had been installed on the BBC Maida Vale studios.

Although the chiller was intended to temporary - and concessions were secured from the BBC that it would only be used when absolutely necessary - we were still somewhat concerned about the potential impact on local residents nearby.

We're pleased to report that, following the initial few uses that the residents were informed about, the chiller has not been switched on since. And we're also pleased to report that the BBC has said it will be removing the unit come the end of the month.

Jan

Maida Vale Fun Day

2009-08-17T22:25:00.003+01:00

On Saturday, we were very pleased to attend the 3rd annual Maida Vale fun day, held on 40 Tree Green, next to Thurso House.

The day, which is organised and run by the Maida Vale Estate Office (with fantastic support from local residents) was another great success, not least for all the local children who came along and were able to enjoy the attractions. The steel band were also top-notch.

Jan, as Deputy Lord Mayor, was on hand to open the event. It was also attended by Joanne, our parliamentary candidate, her husband and dog!

Thanks to everyone who helped to organise and we hoped everyone had as much fun as we did.

Alastair

Resurfacing Requests: Randolph Avenue and Carlton Vale

2009-08-06T19:20:00.002+01:00

Last week, a resident got in touch with us via our Meebo messaging system (see ---> !) to say that they felt that the road surfaces in part of Elgin Avenue and Carlton Vale needed attention.

Well, we've brought it to the attention of Council officers are are pleased to report the following:

Carlton Vale junction with Maida Vale: repairs will be carried out on the junction after parts of the road were deemed unsatisfactory. The junction will also be looked as part of the longer-term aim to improve many of our key junctions throughout the City.
Randolph Avenue (between Elgin Avenue and Carlton Vale): officers have scored the road quality between the two junctions and say that it is not quite at the point yet where re-surfacing is necessary. It's going to be re-scored again shortly and we'll press to have it included in the 2010/2011 resurfacing programme.

To the resident who reported the issues - hope that helps! If you have any similar queries or concerns, please don't hesitate to get in touch and we'll see what we can do.

Lee