RNWA South area co-ordinators meeting

Last night at Loxford Youth Centre the RNWA (myself and Isla represent the South Area) was invited to speak at A south Area NHW Co-ordinators Meeting. Borough Watch Manager Lisa Cherry requested an update on our progress with obtaining potential funding for the RNWA and our intended website. To fill residesnt in with the important detail I can confirm that over £120,000 worth of applications have been submitted for 4 different projects:

• Building Community Bridges ( a fund to promote the RNWA especilaly with a website that will provide holistic networking opportunities to all watches. The fund will also support local NHW's with paper and consumables so that they can promote themselves)
• No Cold Caller Zone ( to extend the no cold caller zones)
• Safer Redbridge ( a fund that will enable us to provide crime prevention devices such as Blue Badge protection devices, UV pens to label property and much more)
• Gating (an innovative scheme that might see the introduction of Gates to 30 alleyways affected by crime)

We have already been shortlisted for the No cold caller zone which seems highly likely to succeed. I will keep you posted on progress.

Kinked George - its turning nasty!

I have continued to pursue the issue of parking around the periphery of King George Hospital since the BHR Trust to charge for parking and limit employee availability. After our initial very successful protest Barbara New from the PAtient Advice Liaison Service seemed quite conducive and has been writing and emailing personal responses. I had made a request that a public meeting be held so that local residents could express their concerns directly to the Trust, however the response received today was rather disappointing, much like the attendance at our last protest. It seems we have lost the impetus. I will arrange one last protest, however I should add in my discussions Mrs New has alluded to the fact that the Hospital had submitted a planning application to increase the existing parking provision. The multi-story extension was refused by our planning department. Barbara New is going to see if she can trace some paperwork so that I can ask our local Councillors to push for a more favourable response to any future applications. If an agreement can be set pre-application, this might encourage the Hospital to try again....as you can see I am running out of ideas now and this may require a public meeting with the highways team to find alternative solutions if the Councillors do not agree to this.

Regarding the public meeting Barbara stated:

"Further to our recent e mail correspondence, I have now received a response which advises that there is no plan to chair an open meeting with regard to this issue."

I had then challenged for a return to the previous parking scheme due to the fact that 9 Security Officers had stolen over £500,000 from the Parking bay machines over 5 years (another example of trust mis-management), the resulting capture would result in return of the proceeds of crime due to new legislation and the Security Contractors own Fidelity and Efficacy insurances. The resulting income from the old ticket machines should also support the need for revenue from parking without need for introduction of the recent perturbing scheme. Her response was:

"I can confirm that we will not revert to the original parking system. This new system is more efficient for the hospital to ensure that those members of staff who need to get to the hospital for the benefit of patients are able to. The system has been applied at both our hospitals using the same criteria. I will make enquiries as to whether there has been an application to the Council to extend the car park and if so when this was made and whether this was declined by Redbridge Council. Upon receipt of this information advise you accordingly"

Diabolical Delay

Here are pictures of works taking place on Connaught Road. One is near the corner of St Mary's Road and one is on the Corner of Connaught Road. Do avoid using this througroute from the High Road to Green Lane as delays will ensue.

There are also Essex and Suffolk water works causing delays on South Park Drive, Esher Road and other associated roads. Works have now started on the Gants Hill Roundabout - causing huge delays on the A12 (Eastern Avenue) in particular.

Are you lonesome tonight.

Last Thursday on the front paper of the Ilford Recorder we heard the tragic story of the man found dead in his home after 3 days. The poor man had few visitors in the latter stages of his life and lived alone for quite some time. His body was found after the emergency services were alerted by a carer after 3 unsuccessful visits to his home and a statement that he saw "something" lying on the floor.

Tragically the number of people dying alone is increasing in this country and sometimes there is a disturbing length of time before, bodies of the deceased are found.

This care worker looking after Danu Bhagwant probably provided him with some comforting company in a Rather lonely world. And his persistence in pursuing the emergency services, when there was no response to his visits is commendable.

Perhaps, however it is a good time for the local council and government to recognise the growing concern about the quality of life for people living alone and reporting measures. Better training for care workers would provide more rapid response to incidents of this nature, better community reach out programmes, such as schools children visiting lonely elderly people will improve quality of life for many. A long term strategy is required to build stronger family units and friendship circles and as the population grows council's will have to ensure that they have the funds set aside for the council funded funerals a lack of "next of kin" will inevitably entail.

What I fail to understand is why this person did not have a lifeline link and if he did why it was not used. Lifeline is a free service available to elderly and disabled people that provides a rapid channel for communication alerting people of someones need for emergency services. Perhaps Social services should be more rigorously promoting the existing scheme....?

Get Into Business

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For details call Gemma on 0207 543 1443, text Get into Business 07810 305 188 or e-mail mailto:ChloeHalpin@princes-trust.org.uk

Inspiration 09

With no envy (even as Redbridge Carnival Chairman) I am happy to say that the Inspiration Event was a great success and equally well attended. There was a separate Funfair section in Melbourne Fields and a stalls, bouncy castle, climbing, boxing and cycling demonstration area. In the picture to the right you will see me with Radzia Omar the organiser of the Taste Asia Stalls, she is wearing the Pink Cap and was part of the Redbridge Carnival team also for 2008.

I met with Anne Chambers (coordinator for Redbridge ST Johns Ambulance) and her team at the Event and she confirmed that we will be receiving a full squad at our event both days. Redbridge Carnival is appearing at Valentines Park (Melbourne Fields) from 12:00 - 20:00 on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September!

Lesiure service were also providing sports activities including tennis as you can see. I proved my wimbledonic talent even though wearing cumbersome clothing due to a need to start the Redbridge Carnival Queen Selection Dance yesterday at 18:00.

This event was well worth attending so do try and come if you did not make it this year!

Drunk and Disorderly

Here is an image of the group of drunkards that are constantly (day and night) causing a nuisance along Green Lane, Gordon Road and many other local streets. Here you see them at one of their favourite haunts the corner of Gordon Road...they also like to drink over night in front of SS Peters and Pauls School making loud noise to the early hours. On one occasion a young 19 year old girl received vitriolic abuse and threats, when asking them to quiten or move on!

I have reported the matter to the Police and the Redbridge ASBO Team and will kep you informed of progress.

If you see this group causing a nuisance please call the Police non-emergency line on 0300 123 1212 or Redbridge ASBO Team on 020 8478 3020. Please inform me of any reports to enable me to collate a frequency picture.

Redbridge Carnival Queen Selection Dance

Tommorrow is the much awaited Redbridge Carnival Queen Selection Dance. It will be a very fun evening with a wide variety of performances and a disco to boogie to at the end of the night. This year we have 9 shortlisted candidates (only 6 last year) . It seems the popularity and knowledge of Redbridge Carnival is increasing. Why not see some of the applicants on our carnival blog?

The applicants and the performers have an internation feel and all of them are strong candiadtes why not come along and join us. The cost for Adults is £4.00 and Children is £2.00 and the event is being held at Redbridge College. 50% of all profits will go towards the Redbridge Peace monument -which will be a memorila to all victims of violent crime in Redbridge and will act as a focal point for a much needed change in society.

If you would like a tickets please call 020 8514 0861 or 07941 083 716

Free Events in Redbridge this weekend

Health checks Saturday 25 July
Venue: Keith Axon Centre160 - 170 Grove RoadChadwell HeathRM6 4XB (view on map)
Time: From 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Event: Free health checks, including:
Blood Pressure
Height Weight
Body Mass Index
Price: Free
Contact: For further information on the event please contact Mrs Valrie Gittens on 07958 215 254 or email gittensvalrie@aol.com.


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What is this? Who did that? Saturday 25 July
Venue: Ray Park visitor centre
Time: 10 am to 12 noon
Event: Come and join the nature conservation rangers to look for signs of wildlife in Roding Valley Park. Learn to how to recognise tracks, droppings, signs of feeding and who/what could have done this.
Age: Suitable for all, under 16 yrs should be accompanied by an adult
Price: Free
EnquiriesFor further information call the Nature Conservation Team

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Path maintenance and litter pick Sunday 26 July
Venue: Hurstleigh Gardens, corner of Hurstleigh Gardens and Fullwell Avenue
Time: 11 am to 2 pm
EventWe’ll be clearing any overgrowth onto the woodland path and collecting litter. All tools will be provided as well as plenty of tea and biscuits!
Age Under 16yrs are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult
PriceFree
EnquiriesFor further information call the Nature Conservation Team

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Inspiration 09, Getting Redbridge Ready for 2012, Sunday 26 July
Venue: Valentines Park, Ilford
Times: From 12 noon to 6 pm
Event details: Celebrate the coming together of art and sport as part of the four year Cultural Olympiad Festival at Valentines Park.
Be entertained by Lion Dancers, Dhol Drummers, Circus performers and Jugglers. Have a go at street dance or circus skills. Take part in recycled art workshops. Enjoy music and dance performances from a whole range of talented performers and listen out for the Big Band sounds on the bandstand and you can even take part in dance taster sessions!
Get active with our have a go sports sessions, including indoor rowing, tennis, basketball, athletics, aerobics, trampolining, archery or golf. Plus try the Inflatable Volleyball court, superb fun for ages 8 through to adult! Let your kids experience the thrill of the climbing wall. They will love it! Try 5 activities and get a freebie gift with Active4Life. Plus you can get FREE advice on how to move more and live longer.
Enjoy a taste of Asia through exotic food and drink, cultural music and performances, arts and crafts, plus a chance to win 2 tickets to Malaysia, courtesy of Air Asia.
AgeE: veryone welcome
Price: Free entrance and free activities
Enquiries 020 8554 5000

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Artists' Studios Open Day Sunday 26 July
Venue: Valentines Mansion
Time: From 11 am to 4 pm
Details: On farmers' market day, visit the Valentines artists studios, located in the mansions' old servants quarters. A chance to meet the artists, seee their work and buy some unique works including stained glass, paintings, ceramic and sculpture. This event forms part of the 'Getting Redbridge Ready' festival.
Price: FREE – no need to book
Enquiries For further information call Valentines Mansion or visit the official web site for Valentines Mansion & Gardens.

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Picnic in park with CLAPA friends Sunday 26 July
Venue: Valentines Park, Ilford, IG1
Time: From 11 am to 6 pm
Event details: Experience fun in the sun with us at Taste Asia.
Raffle Prizes:
Two tickets to Malaysia where the ticket proceeds will be donated to Cleft Lip and Palate Association.
Free leaflets, badges, brochures and information about cleft lip and palate.
Contact Naz Khan, email: nazblues@yahoo.co.uk telephone: 020 8554 8646

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Music in the Parks - Eastbury Concert Band Sunday 26 July
Venue: Valentines Park, Bandstand
Time: From 3 pm to 5 pm
Details: Bring a picnic and a deckchair, relex and enjoy the music!
Price: FREE, just drop in
Age: Families
EnquiriesFor further information call 020 8708 3370.

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Farmers' Market - July Sunday 26 July 2009
Venue: Valentines Mansion
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Details: A chance to buy top quality local and seasonal food and visit the mansion and gardens.
Price: Free
EnquiriesFor further information call Valentines Mansion or visit the official web site for Valentines Mansion & Gardens.

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Mutual Co-operation!

Below I include an emailed response from Katherine Gilcreest regarding the recent spate of crime surrounding the Chadwell Allotments. The majority of the contents is rather indicative of the hard work and edeavour I have come to expect from Katherine who worked hard in my campaign for a safe crossing on the A12. I am aware that there seems to be some boundary clarification required as the alleyway is said to belong to Barking and Dagenham by both the Redbridge Allottment team and the Chadwell (Redbridge) Met Police. I will seek clarity and will cascade the information across to Katherine if I am correct....?

Wilson,

I have to attend a meeting this afternoon at 5.00 p.m. so I wanted to email you in case I get held up with an update regarding the alleyway.

I have visited this area and walked down all the alleyways with members from our Safer Parks Team who know this area really well. The alleyways around St Chad’s Park are all clear and free from rubbish. The Safer parks Officers I visited with advised that the footpath which runs alongside the park adjacent to Park Villas is not in LBBD and the boundary line is the park fence. I have been unable to confirm this; however the Safer Parks Officer who covers this area will monitor this area over the coming weeks to see if he notices any signs of anti-social behaviour in this area.

The area which has obvious signs of anti-social behaviour is the grounds to the building which was Japan Road Community Centre and is on the corner of the footpath, near the entrance to the park. The grounds of this building are littered with cans and the remnants of a burnt mattress. This building has not been used for a number of years and is being sold. The sale is due for completion in August 2009. I have contacted our Asset Management Team who are responsible for the maintenance of this building up to the point of completion and asked if they could clear the grounds. They visited the site on Monday 20 July 2009 to do this, but could not access the site due to a problem with the lock on the gate. This area will be cleared this week.

I have been advised that the site has been purchased by the adjacent church and it is anticipated that once this building is being used the problems will lessen.

If anyone has problems with this building or wants to report any anti-social behaviour in Barking and Dagenham they can contact us on 020 8215 3000, or via my details below.

Katherine Gilcreest
ASB Manager
Community Safety Team, Adult and Community Services
London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
Roycraft House, 15 Linton Road
Barking, IG11 8HE

Phone: 020 8227 2457
Fax: 020 8227 2603
Minicom: 020 8227 5755
E-Mail: Katherine.gilcreest@lbbd.gov.uk
Website: www.barking-dagenham.gov.uk

Chadwell Allotments

Last night in the pouring rain allotment holders and local residents fo Chadwell met with the Chadwell Safer Neighbourhood Team and the Redbridge Allotments Management Team. Both the Chadwell Heath SNT and Barking and Dagenham ASBO Team (they did apologise) failed to arrive.

Much was discussed in the meeting including whether sycammore Trees should be removed from the perimeter hawthorn hedges - this is due to purported diminished vegetable growth. However, I eventually managed to steer the meeting back to crime and grime related issues (admittedly,I did return to the topic of hedges - this was however security related).

The two main and important subjects that came out of this meeting (not that other matters were less salient - just inappropriate for this meeting) seemed firstly to be a misguided definition of where our borough boundary lies amongst agencies. I must add, however, that the error in judgement seems to be entirely a London Borough of Dagenham error (not the first time), I cannot clarify this at this stage as no Barking and Dagenham representative arrived?

Secondly, I pr posed that the long bushes be cut back to allow better visibility to the site when vacant and at night so that any untoward or nuisance behaviour could be reported to the authorities. This call was backed by an allotment holder who stated that a height of 4.5m would probably provide adequate pollution cover and would allow adequate biodiversity.

An officer from the Allotment Management Team confirmed that he would investigate the boundaries issue via property services and would provide me with a response to provide to both ASBO and Police Teams affected. The Same officer also advised that due to the "Wildlife & Countryside Act 1984" and the Council's own biodivesity strategy and policy it would not be feasible to cut back the hedges till October as it would disturb nesting birds which is an offence and reduce a large habitat. However, he confirmed that a full consultation with Allotment holders would ensue prior to this date and their wishes would be taken into consideration when deciding on how much to cut the bushes in the proposed October works.

The Police backed my assertion that increased visibility reduces crime.

I also agreed to chase up the antisocial behaviour team regarding the temporary measure of placing an overt (visible) camera as a deterrent to crime, on the lamppost to the for of the front gate. This would allow monitoring of crime and evidence post-incident.

I also confirmed that I would be applying to the RNWA and and Area 5 Committee for the funding of a secure metal palisade fence to side of the property on Park Villas adjacent to the park. This is to stop the arson attacks and trespass to the property of very elderly and vulnerable residents. I acknowledged the decision not to fund the fence from a limited budget with the Allotment Management Team who only have a limited budget and do not have the power to enact such a precedent, that could end up costing the taxpayer £1000s in additional claims. However, I do hope they will encourage allotment holders to allow a significant reduction in the hedge growth that may culminate in reduced privacy but would make their area a lot safer.

Chadwell Police have improved a lot under the sterling leadership of Sgt Mark Lowrie and have appeared at many local meetings including the Area 5 Committee (previously bereft of police presence). This has created a welcome and friendly community association that resulted in much applause at the end of the meeting. It is imperative, however that we as a community make effective use of their time and I hope that more people choose to attend public meetings at which such committed community figures forgo other commitment to attend.

Road works alert!

To the left is an image of the road works occuring on Seven Kings High Road (leading to Chadwell Heath High Road). It does seem rather minor however, do expect delays during busy periods. The work is being undertaken by Essex and Suffolk water and seem to be a segment of their overall work on rejuvenating our local pipe works. I will obtain details of how long and extensive the works are to be and will inform you in a future post.

The picture on my right illustrates the road works being undertaken on Barley Lane near Percy Road. Again these are minor, however such works on a busy road such as this will cause delay during high density traffic hours. Try to avoid these locations if you can during frequent use periods. I will obtain better details on these works to be added to a future blog.

It has been known in some parts of Britain for youths to connect Super Woofers to lamp posts to facilitate street parties. This fact coupled with the recent EDF delays with the removal of disused/broken lamp posts and the implicated danger highlighted by the bright yellow hazard tape - has prompted me to request the highways team to remove this lamp post and install a replacement at Gresham Drive with utmost expediency. I will confirm a date and will post it on this blog at a later date.

I should add... only a year ago whilst with the Labour Party, I detailed to residents a sighting of children tampering with the opening of a similar post on Reynolds Avenue!

Another green telecoms box has been vandalised by graffiti, however we should take much solace in the fact that our streetscene team removes this blight rapidly when notified and the instances of such crime have reduced significantly since we have waged war on this scourge and the reporting mechanisms and networks in our communities have improved - much due to the resurgence of local Neighbourhood Watches!

This box on Charles Road has been reported to the General Cleansing Team and I am sure it will be cleaned expediently.

I had reported this awful external staircase which is falling to pieces which is at the rear of Pavement mews - the same location as the recent roof clearance. This has not yet been repaired despite the Health and Safety Team Advising me that they had been in contact with the owner. This concern is particularly disturbing as I and the H&S Team are aware that a number of families live in the flats to the top of these very dangerous stairs. I will chase a response from the H&S Team and will keep local residents informed of any action to be taken.

Cleaner Safer Chadwell!

Some of you will remember a while ago I expressed concern at a number of businesses opting to use their roofs as a dumping ground for commercial waste. The result of my correspondence with the local Health and Safety team is removal of the waste from all the roofs and I am grateful for the input from all the officers involved.

Shepherds Close Facelift!

In the picture to the left you will see that road workers from Kenson's contracted to Our council are completing the necessary road repairs to the public highway are mentioned in my previous post. By the time you get home today this work should be complete. If you See Darren and Lee please offer them a drink as they were working hard all day (even in the rain I should add). I have asked the Council to commend their very tidy unobtrusive and extremely expedient work to their employers!

Here you can see Isla pointing out the repairs to the road surface at which an odd piece of iron cabling was removed from the road surface - the cable posed a real safety threat to vehicles and pedestrians. Our thanks to Isla's NHW member who advised her of both these issues.

Your Top 10 Political Blogs

Last year this blog didn’t exist. But this year it does. So you can vote for it along with 9 others. I know there’s not much to choose from locally, apart from Barkingside 21, but there are plenty listed here to suit all tastes.

Here are the rules:

1. You must vote for your ten favourite blogs and ranks them from 1 (your favourite) to 10 (your tenth favourite).

2. Your votes must be ranked from 1 to 10. Any votes which do not have rankings will not be counted.

3. You MUST include ten blogs. If you include fewer than ten your vote will not count.

4. Email your vote to toptenblogs@totalpolitics.com

5. Only vote once.

6. Only blogs based in the UK, run by UK residents or based on UK politics are eligible.

7. Anonymous votes left in the comments will not count. You must give a name

8. All votes must be received by midnight on 31 July 2009. Any votes received after that date will not count.

The votes will be compiled and included in the forthcoming book, the Total Politics Guide to Blogging 2009-10, which will be published in September. This year the poll is being promoted/sponsored by LabourList and LibDemVoice as well as Iain Dale’s Diary.

Road Repair!

I spoke about the awful state of an area of public highway along Shepherds Close in a recent post.

I myself tripped suffered much embarrassment and pain...heh heh! - (see picture on previous post).

A recent response (20.07.09) from the Chief of Highways stated:

"We will check the limits of public highway in this location and arrange any urgent repairs."

Of course I was in Scotland and have not chased things up. However, in a prompt and professional manner a lead officer from the hardworking reactive maintenance team has confirmed:

"The area in question has been inspected and a works order for repair issued accordingly."

I am pleased about this result and am grateful to the highways department for their expedient and highly favourable response.

I hope this is a satisfactory conclusion to the request for assistance.

Job Done!

I have just returned from one of my frequent visits to Scotland and apologise for the absence of reports during the last few days. I hope this has not resulted in a loss of any permanent traffic...?

Anyway, on my return I met with good news that the fly tipping at 74 Shepherds Close, that I only reported last Thursday - has now been removed. I hope this has brought some solace to local residents. Please do share your views.

All thanks should go to Russell Ward and his ingenious Streetscene Team.

Free Events in Redbridge this weekend

Tarzy Wood fun day Saturday 18 July
Venue: Tarzy Woodwar memorial greenWanstead High Street
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Event: Come along to a community fun day where there will be music, food, stalls and swings for children.
Price: Free
EnquiriesFor further information call the Nature Conservation Team


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Biodersity Bike Ride Sunday 19 July
Venue: Manor Park Tube Station
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Event: Join the rangers and members of Redbridge LCC for a pleasant ride through the boroughs green spaces, including Hainault Forest Country Park, Fairlop and Claybury. Maximum 18 mile round trip with breaks. Please bring a packed lunch. There will be sections when we will be cycling on busy roads so competent cyclists only.
Price: Free
EnquiriesFor further information call the Nature Conservation Team

Princes Trust Grants!

Trust does business for jobless

Unemployed people in Redbridge are being given the chance to be their own boss with a Prince’s Trust backed business Course. The free four-week get in to business course is open to 18 to 30 year olds who have lost their jobs in the recession or are looking to make their first step on to the job ladder. With funding from Redbridge Council and support from The Prince’s Trust, budding entrepreneurs will learn a host of business skills including product design and development, market research, budgeting and finances, branding, marketing and business planning.
The aim is to give out-of-work budding entrepreneurs the chance to make the first step towards running their own money-making venture.

Once the course is finished, graduates will be able to apply to the Prince’s Trust business programme and even get a business loan together with mentor support to help realise their dream of being their own boss.

A trust spokesman said:

“The course offers practical support and personal development to help build confidence and a workable business plan, in addition to key employability skills. Young people will also get the chance to talk to Prince’s Trust supported businesses about the realities of being your own boss. This comes at a time when the number of 18-24 year olds claiming jobseekers’ allowance in Redbridge has increased 62 per cent in the past year.”

A level two national award in business skills will be given to everyone who finishes the course.
All travel Costs will be reimbursed and childcare support is available for the three day-a-week course being held at The Teachers’ Centre, Melbourne Road, Ilford, from August 4-27.
For more details and to apply call 020 7543 1443 or text Get into Business to 07810305188

Shaggy!

This is the Corner of Barleyfileds Close (off Grove road), you can see there are a number of bushes that have undergone excessive growth and are now encroaching on the public footpath. I am asking the Streetscene team to have a look at prosecuting the homeowners that are causing the concern. I have also asked that a cutting exercise take place if feasible.

Here you can see rubbish is also an issue here and I have requested a bin for this often frequented location.

The green box in the picture is fronted by another excessively sized bush and has grafitti on it. It is also at the same corner

Rod Alert!

This rod is protruding out of the road surface of Shepherds Close. This road is definitely due a complete overhaul and after Reynolds Avenue and Gresham Drive receive Major Works, my personal opinion is that this road and Glendale avenue should be the next priorities for Chadwell...?



In the meanwhile it is essential that our Highways team take car of this item as it poses a real trip hazard and may eventually cause vehicle tyre puncture. I have reported the item and will keep you informed. The pole is present in the road opposite the Anglia Windows site near 74 Shepherds Close




To add insult to injury with no yellow lines on corners the abuse of parking displayed regularly occurs, reducing mobility for those less able bodied! Perhaps a yellow line could be installed on this corner as with others I have previously suggested. I have passed this concern across to the Highways Team and will chase them for a response.

Arrrggh my leg!

Here is a picture of me tripping at the junction to an alleyway on Shepherds Close. I am not sure if it was the fact that there was no drop down kerb at this location or the disgusting state of the publicly owned section of the road, that made me trip. All I can confirm is that I hurt my knee and ankle and will be talking to highways about this issue. What luck Isla Martin of the Greens had a camera ay!

Here you can see the line that Isla Martin (a long term resident of Shepherds Close and fervent Green activist ) believes is the actual boundary of the Private Road and the Alleyway. Most residents would agree with the notion and I too would be inclined to support their view. I do not know why the council is choosing to leave this area in it6s dilapidated state but will enquire. In the meanwhile, I can confirm that an elderly lady with a mobility vehicle lives just 20 yards from the location!

Once I get a response from Highways you will be informed accordingly!

Unruly business owners!

Here is the fly tipping scene that awaits me in the mornings next to my offices at 57 Green lane. I have reported the incident to the General Cleansing Team and hope that it will be cleared soon. The owners of the property will receive a penalty notice as much of the rubbish id from their recent refurb works and it is now attracting vermin. Please report any such items in Ilford South to me so that I can compile a list and cascade your concerns to the relevant department.

Seven Kings Library

Proposals for a new temporary library facility in Seven Kings are being outlined by Redbridge Council. Council Officers are looking into a number of options for the library which include a temporary building or using a retail unit to provide services in the area. A report will go to Cabinet once details have been established.

Local Residents in the area have been campaigning for a library for a number of years. Officers are currently looking into details of the proposed facility including size, the number and range of books and services that would be provided.

Fullwell Cross Swimming Pool Revamped!

THE revamped Fullwell Cross leisure centre will be unveiled on Saturday. Major refurbishment works have been taking place at the centre, in High Street, Barkingside, to the gym and spa areas. Organisers are promising a "fun filled" day, with a year's free membership to the centre - which includes the borough's only public swimming pool, between 10am and 4pm.

Oi Thats Mine!

Give and Take Day

A chance to clear out your unwanted items which someone else could use and bring them along on the day. A chance to find a much needed thing that someone else does not want.

You don’t have to give something to take something!

Saturday 1st August 2009
12 Noon to 3 pm

SEVEN KINGS UNITED FREE CHURCH
Corner of Meads Lane / Norfolk Road

Click on graphic to enlarge

Free Summer programmes for 11-25 year olds!

If you are concerned about what to do with your children over the summer holidays. Then fear no more! Redbridge Youth services provide fre or low cost activities for young people from the age of 11- 25 throughout the year. More details can be found by following the two links below:

http://www.redbridge.gov.uk/cms/education__learning/youth_service.aspx

http://www.redbridge.gov.uk/cms/a_to_z_of_services/s/summer_uni.aspx?theme=textonly

I hope you find this useful...?

Flood panic!

The images you see are not taken in York or Wales but from Reynolds Avenue Chadwell Ward. An astute resident contacted me on realising that the road works that I have promised for a while now are finally underway. They were concerned that the new road surface would be subjected to the wet conditions seen in the pictures and rather rapidly lose its pristine image. Her are some of the complainants comments:

"Every year we have this problem of flooding when there is heavy rain even if its only for ten minutes. I have thought of raising this issue before but was not sure how to go about it. I did phone the council once but was told to phone when the road is actually flooded. The problem is that the flood does not last long enough for someone to be able to come and inspect it. When the rain stops, 10-15 minutes later the flood water drains out. My concern is that if the rain lasts longer than ten minutes then mine and some of my neighbours houses can get flooded. Since there is going to be work done to the road maybe this problem can be looked at the same time."

The Group Manager for our Civil Engineering department has copied me into an email sent to Thames Water:

"Post code RM6 4MT. Please see attached email and photos. The symptoms described are typical of those of a surcharged surface water sewerage system. The highway gullies are described as working a short while after the rain has stopped. Can you please advise of what action you will be taking."

An application has been sent to the owners for a potential Carriageway crossing which will be installed on Reynolds Avenue at a price reduced by 25%, due to the major works being carried out. Other interested parties should avail themselves of this opportunity.

Free Trees!

I received the email below today and hope to disseminate the information to parties that might have an interest:

"We have a tree planting program that is instigated by Mayors of London who will be funding the scheme, to an area where trees are lacking. However priority is now been given to Seven Kings and Goodmayes area and we are looking to identify sites that we can put forward for consideration. The details of the Scheme can be found on www.ltwgs.org. This includes the list of streets included within the area. The Fund's definition of a street tree is; "Trees planted on public land within or immediately adjacent to the highway, which make an unambiguous contribution to the street scene, shade the pavement, and are completely visible from the pavement."

Therefore, we would appreciate it, if you could forward this information to a relevant residents groups that you know of who might be interested on the matter and give us advise. We would like to receive any feed back/information before the 31st of August 2009.

Regards,
Seble Kassa Engineer Highways and Engineering Services London Borough of Redbridge Direct Line: 020 8708 83571
Email: [mailto:seble.kassa@redbridge.gov.uk] Web: www.redbridge.gov.uk "

Overton Drive- Engines revving issue1

I have received some disturbing news about antisocial behavior along Overton Drive Car Park near Chadwell Heath Station. I have reported the incident to the Police, ASBO and Streetscene Team and will keep you informed of progress. the report from the resident included:

"Over the past few weeks I have become concerned about suspicious activities in our rear car park which is next to Station Road. Late at night there seems to be a lot of activity, with cars drawing up, leaving their engines running for long periods, revving, loud music, etc. I'm positive that these are not residents of these flats, although I can't see clearly what is going on. Fly tipping has also been a problem in the past. One of our neighbours also uses our car park and leaves rubbish, as well as allowing their dog to foul the grass areas. I am very concerned that this is attracting anti social activity."

If any of you have additional information please contact me!

Jimmy Krankie!

This picture was taken outside the garage to number 2 Mayesford Road actually placed next to number 30 Reynolds Avenue. I am actually standing between two bits of graffiti and did not want to assume a Jimmy Krankie pose (blame the photographer!). My thumbs were actually pointing to the two larger bits of graffiti. I have asked the General Cleansing team to remove them and am impressed that they have now removed all my previously mentioned areas. The Streetscene team led by our astute Russell Ward have proved to be immensely more efficient since his arrival. Our community is in his debt!

Gresham Success!

Residents of Gresham Drive will no doubt, have mixed feeling about the recent roadworks on their road. They will be euphoric that the promised works are taking place, but stressed over the temporary inconvenience I am sure.

This is the start of a 7 month projects to completely overhaul the pavements and roads on Gresham Drive and Reynolds Avenue. It is the first time in decades that such work has taken place and is the result of a long campaign. It will cause a lot of disturbance, however, I would appreciate if residents, showed some patience as the long term benefit will be one of much improved quality of life. Reynolds Avenue works will start at the beginning of August!

Do avoid the area in the next 7 months as I am sure their will be traffic delay!

MP Sleaze

A few people have asked me about the event that occurred at the last Area 5 Committee Meeting. Let me clarify my position at the last meeting, I had brought my daughter with me to the rather drab occasion - she “wanted to be with daddy” and personally, having her with me was rather exhilarating and comforting. I rushed to the meeting as early as possible to ensure I booked myself in to speak at Public Forum. When speaking to the lead officer she referred me to the fact one of my issues was due to be discussed in the "Action Sheet (meaning it would be discussed late at night near the end of the meeting). No mention was made to me that my second point would also be in the Action Sheet. I advised the officer that I would be talking on other issues within the Public Forum, however, as my daughter was getting irritable and nervous - I suggested I could just add these into my presentation at the appointed time. This position seemed to have been agreed? Only when I got to the stage that I would speak did the Chairperson inform me that both items were within the Action sheet. If I had been advised of this earlier, I would have obtained my list and resolved the matter by providing the other issues at the beginning of the meeting. Chairpersons have discretion - the newly elected Labour Chair could have opted to let me speak especially when you consider that many of you were awaiting decisions on the issues to be raised!

Two other Labour Councillor's also pitched in with comments refusing to let me speak?

The whole situation seemed rather contrived and I referred to the apprehension as "Labour sleaze" - it seemed to me that I was being kept from speaking by "hook or by crook". When questioned on what I meant by sleaze I could not help but erupt in a comment regarding the recent MP expenses scandal. The Ilford Recorder chose their own slant on the story and they have every right to, however, they were not privy to all the pertinent facts.

What was strange is that the Chairman later incorrectly stopped me from talking at the Action Sheet item, within the meetings agenda? She had to apologise (claiming she forgot I had registered - even after the previous debacle), when a Council Officer explained that I had every right to speak at that point!

It was a shame my daughter had to see all the shenanigans and the blunt refusal by the Labour and Liberal cronies to let me speak, however she was not frightened and even said to me "Daddy were those people naughty- you really told them off?" I told her they were...I will let you decide for yourselves.....?

Big Brother Is Watching You!

In this wonderful technological age their are so many ways to monitor and research the productivity of electronic message boards such as my blog.

What I have noticed is that we have a feed burn to an address registered to the council -so someone there is gleaning through the pages of my blog? It also transpires that during a recent walk along the streets I bumped into Cllr Staight with the person I assume was his partner. He asked for a copy of the letter I was delivering to residents and I obliged. That night there was an immense amount of activity on my blog. I wonder if it is Cllr Staight who now also uses my blog as a tool to learn what is actually happening in Chadwell Ward....if so welcome to the club!

If it is another Cllr or officer...well done on learning that this blog is the most current news vehicle for the ward...even the Ilford Recorder use it!

Armageddon

The Pavements get greener in Chadwell every week and no matter how much I ask for a weed killing exercise on our roads, the situation seems to deteriorate even more. I am frustrated that our ward is always so overlooked and believe it is much due to the boundary with Dagenham and contractor mis-perception. I will be taking up the matter with the weeding section again on Monday.



Perhaps we should start investing in heavy duty mowers and start to cut back the growth ourselves? It would be a quicker resolution and judging by the size of some of the weeds, it might be too late for effective use of weed killer!