October report

Kings crescent masterplan approved
The masterplan for the regeneration of the estate was approved unanimously at the planning committee on 12th September - Planning applications . It will see the estate rebuilt in probably 4 phases, each consisting of new build and refurbishment of the existing stock so that the eventual design is tenure-blind. The architects for the first two phases and the landscapers for the whole of the development have now been appointed. At the conclusion it will provide 274 (36%) units for social rent, 117 (15%) for shared ownership and 374 (49%) for private sale. Respectively 26%, 39%, 23% and 11% will consist of one to four bedrooms. A new community centre, play facilities, shops and café are proposed. The next stage in engagement is via a street party from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday 13th October. Consultation is now much wider then the estate. The second stage of the refurbishment which includes replacement of the electrical mains, all lifts, the installation of two tier door entry systems, and new roofs and windows for Weston and Lemsford, is almost complete. All the new doors are installed but delays with the electrics meant some are only now being activated.

Hackney Play Streets

A groundbreaking scheme has just started in Hackney that will close selected streets to through traffic, turning them into “play streets”.

Hackney has become the first London

borough to introduce Temporary Play Street Orders (TPSOs) as a one-year pilot project.
TPSOs which allows parents to apply to close their street for a few hours per week or month for children to play safely outside.

The scheme was initiated following an approach to the council by resident and mum of three Claudia Draper who said 'hopefully playing out in the street will now be a normal part of kids' lives as well as being something that brings the community closer together'.

Oldfied Road

in Stoke Newington closed for the first time on 9th September allowing 70 children to play together and older residents to meet and chat.
Residents of play streets can still drive on closing days and are guided by volunteer stewards stationed at the ends of the street.

The scheme is open to any residential road where there is sufficient support for the idea.
If you wish to apply for a TPSO you will first need to consult with neighbours before submitting an application. Major routes or streets with a bus route are unlikely to be suitable.

To find out more about this innovative project contact Gavin Best at Hackney Council or call 020 8356 3023.
The scheme has the support of the Hackney Play Association who has more information on children's play in the borough on their website.

August Update

GCSE results- You’ll have heard that nationally results are down for the first time, but Hackney bucked the trend big time. This year, 60.5% of students achieved five good GCSEs including English and Maths – a 3.5% increase on last year and our best ever results. Ten years ago the number of pupils getting five good GCSEs was 31 per cent.