Councillors Report – June 2011

Woodberry Down regeneration – the first new residents move in

It’s taken a long time but the first residents moved into brand new homes on the 12^th of May 2011. The debate about whether to keep on repairing the ageing buildings or attempt a more substantial regeneration began as far back as 1999. After much consultation and negotiation, the first PDA with Berkley Homes was signed in 2006. Building began on the “old school site” in March 2009.

The first 33 homes for rent in “Reservoir Apartments” have been complete for some time now with services being tested and final decorations applied. The next block to complete is the 84 for rent in “Watersreach”. All units there are ready with just the communal areas being finalised.

The new Redmond Community Centre should be handed over at the end of May at the same time that the Watersreach Apartments are occupied. The New River path from the Castle to the new apartments was du

e to reopen on 13^th May following extensive landscaping to make best use of the location and setting.

At 268 Green Lanes, construction is up to 3^rd floor level on the rear block. The decant of Peak & Petherton has been completed and demolition begun. The occupation of the new health centre requires careful negotiation due to the planned abolition of PCTs.

Parkwood School

Parkwood, Hackney’s best primary school has consistently been short of space. A new classroom was finally commissioned by its governors which include Brian and Oli, last year. Construction is now complete and it should open later this month.

Pupils and parents from Parkwood Primary School are gearing up to take part in ‘Bike Across the Borough’, a mass cycle ride taking place on 23 June to celebrate Bike Week and the launch of Hackney’s new 2012 walking and cycling route.

The event is just two weeks away; it runs from Parkwood Primary School ( Queens Drive - part of 2012 walking and cycling route) to the viewtube at the Olympic Park. Parents and student at Parkwood Primary School today joined mechanic "Dr Bike" to learn about bike maintenance and safe cycling.

They were all treated to a ‘Biker’s Breakfast’ of healthy and energising food. Hackney cycle training manager Lucy Nandris was on hand to give some pointers, and will be present on the day. The route will pass through Clisold Park, Hackney Downs, and Well Street Common, with more schools joining the ride en route to the Olympic Park.