Find out more about FinFuture's work here.
Blackstock Road Community Consultation Event
Thursday 22nd Feb 3.30pm to 8pm
City & Islington College
28-42 Blackstock Road N4 2DG
"FinFuture would like to invite you to attend a community consultation event to find
out how FinFuture working in partnership with Hackney & Islington Councils,
Safer Neighbourhood Teams and local businesses, plans to improve Blackstock Road.
During the day there will be presentations on our proposals and an
opportunity to find out more about the businesses on Blackstock Road, their
services and cultures. Formal presentations will be from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.
We have received a grant from the London Development Agency to develop
Finsbury Park as a Town Centre and Blackstock Road has been selected as our
first high road to work with. The project is called Town Centres for City
Growth and the work we do on Blackstock Road will be delivered on the other
local high roads over the next two years. To find out more, come to our
event, where there will also be information about our Start Up Business
Club, Interpreter Training Courses, Women In Business event plus a lot more.
There will be stalls with samples of dishes and cakes from around the world
and details of where this food originated from and its cultural
significance.
We would like you to attend to see our plans and share your views."
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Thursday, February 01, 2007
0% local tax rise and boosts for key services
Following last night's Council meeting, we can reveal that
Hackney’s part of the council tax is being frozen for the second year in a row - with a 0% rise for 2007/8.
Rising collection rates and efficiency savings at the Town Hall mean Hackney’s ruling Labour group is able to put more money into key services without putting up council tax.
Highlights of the 2007/8 budget were revealed to a meeting of the full council on Wednesday.
For the fifth year running Labour Mayor Jules Pipe will be setting a balanced budget that does not have to deal with overspends in previous years.
This is also the fifth year that there are NO cuts in services in Hackney’s budget – as well as extra money to fund residents’ key priorities.
The council has made almost £4 million in efficiency savings – money which is being ploughed back into key services.
The council tax collection rate is rising and is now at 90% - up 1% on last year – bringing in more money that can be spent on key services for residents.
Hackney’s Labour mayor Jules Pipe said: “Hackney Labour is very pleased we can deliver a 0% rise in local tax for the second year in a row.
“I am committed to keeping council tax down through improving the Council’s efficiency and driving up collection rates.
“Improved council efficiency means we can also put more money into the services that matter to you.”
Labour’s 2007/8 budget means boosts for key services including:
· KIDS SWIM FREE: An extra £295K to fund free access to all residents under 18 to swimming lessons during school holidays – starting this Easter.
· BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE: An extra £80K to extend the opening hours of the Hackney Service Centre from 8am-6pm Monday-Friday to 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday AND Saturday morning. More translating services for customers without English as a first language.
· STREET WARDENS: Investment to secure the future for Hackney’s Street Wardens to help make our borough cleaner and safer.
· MORE RECYCLING: An extra £250K to roll out compulsory recycling across the borough including for plastics and to introduce blue bins for kitchen waste to all kerbside collections.
· MORE TREES: An extra 500 trees on Hackney’s street this year alone – reducing our carbon footprint and making Hackney greener.
· GREENER HACKNEY: An extra £1.3m to improve Hackney’s parks and green spaces
In addition, Hackney’s schools are getting an extra £11 million to continue the improvements in education in Hackney that have seen GCSE results improve from 32% in 2002 to 51% today.
Labour’s 2007/8 budget takes a further step forward and away from the financial mismanagement and instability of a hung council.
Hackney’s part of the council tax is being frozen for the second year in a row - with a 0% rise for 2007/8.
Rising collection rates and efficiency savings at the Town Hall mean Hackney’s ruling Labour group is able to put more money into key services without putting up council tax.
Highlights of the 2007/8 budget were revealed to a meeting of the full council on Wednesday.
For the fifth year running Labour Mayor Jules Pipe will be setting a balanced budget that does not have to deal with overspends in previous years.
This is also the fifth year that there are NO cuts in services in Hackney’s budget – as well as extra money to fund residents’ key priorities.
The council has made almost £4 million in efficiency savings – money which is being ploughed back into key services.
The council tax collection rate is rising and is now at 90% - up 1% on last year – bringing in more money that can be spent on key services for residents.
Hackney’s Labour mayor Jules Pipe said: “Hackney Labour is very pleased we can deliver a 0% rise in local tax for the second year in a row.
“I am committed to keeping council tax down through improving the Council’s efficiency and driving up collection rates.
“Improved council efficiency means we can also put more money into the services that matter to you.”
Labour’s 2007/8 budget means boosts for key services including:
· KIDS SWIM FREE: An extra £295K to fund free access to all residents under 18 to swimming lessons during school holidays – starting this Easter.
· BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE: An extra £80K to extend the opening hours of the Hackney Service Centre from 8am-6pm Monday-Friday to 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday AND Saturday morning. More translating services for customers without English as a first language.
· STREET WARDENS: Investment to secure the future for Hackney’s Street Wardens to help make our borough cleaner and safer.
· MORE RECYCLING: An extra £250K to roll out compulsory recycling across the borough including for plastics and to introduce blue bins for kitchen waste to all kerbside collections.
· MORE TREES: An extra 500 trees on Hackney’s street this year alone – reducing our carbon footprint and making Hackney greener.
· GREENER HACKNEY: An extra £1.3m to improve Hackney’s parks and green spaces
In addition, Hackney’s schools are getting an extra £11 million to continue the improvements in education in Hackney that have seen GCSE results improve from 32% in 2002 to 51% today.
Labour’s 2007/8 budget takes a further step forward and away from the financial mismanagement and instability of a hung council.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Brownswood February update
here
Labour Group 16th January
At the last group meeting we set the budget for next year, including the council tax. While details remain confidential, you will be pleased to know that the council’s finances are sound and we were able to free up resources to begin implementation of most of our manifesto.
Police Safer Neighbourhoods Team
There has unfortunately been significant turnover in our police team in the last month. Sergeant Dave Bounds has taken over management of the team from Alison lapper who is on a six month secondment. PC Kelly Wood has left and been replaced.
Feryat and Brian attended the last CAP meeting on 10th January. Amongst key issues –
· an undercover operation on Blackstock Road for the fortnight before Xmas resulted in 15 arrests, mainly for handling stolen goods
· the anti social behaviour closure order on the abandoned parts of Kings Crescent, has been renewed for a further six months
· incoming calls to phoneboxes in Woodberry Grove, have been barred to discourage loitering. They also plan to try out a “mosquito” in the area.
· vice continues to significantly reduced on Brownswood Road
Woodberry Down
Issues recently raised by residents include-
· the narrowing of Seven Sisters Road
· is phasing really based on "worst first", particularly as they believe the Seven Blocks had been agreed as the worst?
· allegations about the values being offered to current leaseholders
· concerns about the possible loss of current shops on Woodberry Grove, and the time taken to provide replacement units in a later phase
All three councillors attended a further meeting with the Woodberry Grove retailers on 16th January. The retailers were presented with the proposed retail redevelopment and a retailers ‘offer’. Although the council have agreed to lower rents for the retail units and revisit some of the leasehold conditions, they are unable to offer more compensation or a first right of refusal on the new properties as they will be owned by the developer.
The retailers have been encouraged to approach the developer to enquire about the take up of the new shops (Berkley Homes have now opened an office in the shopping parade). The councillors are exploring ways in which they can support this communication.
Kings Crescent
The report is now due to go to the February Cabinet recommending development partners for Kings Crescent. This was delayed for a month to allow further work to be done on the financial models put forward by the competing partnerships. This was particularly important given the previous history of this estate.
Once a preferred partnership is selected, they will be expected to begin detailed negotiations with the residents and council on the future shape of the estate. As previously mentioned, the assumptions in the tendering process were that it likely to involve clearance of the Green Lanes frontage for redevelopment, and refurbishment of the blocks along Brownswood Road and Queens Drive for possible retention by the council. However this may be subject to change during those negotiations.
Following the deputation which we took to the Council in November, there is finally a detailed programme of works underway to tackle the backlog of maintenance. There is a meeting for residents on 30th January to explain what is planned.
The first 10 flats refurbished to the standards to which all the retained units will be, are due to be complete by 23rd February. Two will be used as show flats for a period, and the others available for decanting.
Negotiations towards establishing a permanent police shop on the estate are in the hands of the property services branches of both the MPS and Hackney, but will hopefully be concluded within the next few months.
Finfuture
The Hackney Gazette ran a positive piece on the work being done to regenerate Finsbury Park, which they picked up on from our blog!
Licensing
The Spring Park Hotel sex encounter premises application was heard on Thursday 11th January. All three councillors attended. Darren and a number of residents spoke on behalf of Brownswood ward to oppose the application, while Tory Cllr Maureen Middleton spoke on behalf of New River residents. After long deliberation, the panel decided to grant the application with a number of conditions; an extremely disappointing result. The hotel was not granted an extension to its licence to serve alcohol though, and the sex encounter licence will be reviewed from March this year - giving us the opportunity to object if any of the feared problems connected to the licence do materialise.
Parkwood School
The school’s new playground got a special commendation in the recent Hackney Design Awards.
Labour Group 16th January
At the last group meeting we set the budget for next year, including the council tax. While details remain confidential, you will be pleased to know that the council’s finances are sound and we were able to free up resources to begin implementation of most of our manifesto.
Police Safer Neighbourhoods Team
There has unfortunately been significant turnover in our police team in the last month. Sergeant Dave Bounds has taken over management of the team from Alison lapper who is on a six month secondment. PC Kelly Wood has left and been replaced.
Feryat and Brian attended the last CAP meeting on 10th January. Amongst key issues –
· an undercover operation on Blackstock Road for the fortnight before Xmas resulted in 15 arrests, mainly for handling stolen goods
· the anti social behaviour closure order on the abandoned parts of Kings Crescent, has been renewed for a further six months
· incoming calls to phoneboxes in Woodberry Grove, have been barred to discourage loitering. They also plan to try out a “mosquito” in the area.
· vice continues to significantly reduced on Brownswood Road
Woodberry Down
Issues recently raised by residents include-
· the narrowing of Seven Sisters Road
· is phasing really based on "worst first", particularly as they believe the Seven Blocks had been agreed as the worst?
· allegations about the values being offered to current leaseholders
· concerns about the possible loss of current shops on Woodberry Grove, and the time taken to provide replacement units in a later phase
All three councillors attended a further meeting with the Woodberry Grove retailers on 16th January. The retailers were presented with the proposed retail redevelopment and a retailers ‘offer’. Although the council have agreed to lower rents for the retail units and revisit some of the leasehold conditions, they are unable to offer more compensation or a first right of refusal on the new properties as they will be owned by the developer.
The retailers have been encouraged to approach the developer to enquire about the take up of the new shops (Berkley Homes have now opened an office in the shopping parade). The councillors are exploring ways in which they can support this communication.
Kings Crescent
The report is now due to go to the February Cabinet recommending development partners for Kings Crescent. This was delayed for a month to allow further work to be done on the financial models put forward by the competing partnerships. This was particularly important given the previous history of this estate.
Once a preferred partnership is selected, they will be expected to begin detailed negotiations with the residents and council on the future shape of the estate. As previously mentioned, the assumptions in the tendering process were that it likely to involve clearance of the Green Lanes frontage for redevelopment, and refurbishment of the blocks along Brownswood Road and Queens Drive for possible retention by the council. However this may be subject to change during those negotiations.
Following the deputation which we took to the Council in November, there is finally a detailed programme of works underway to tackle the backlog of maintenance. There is a meeting for residents on 30th January to explain what is planned.
The first 10 flats refurbished to the standards to which all the retained units will be, are due to be complete by 23rd February. Two will be used as show flats for a period, and the others available for decanting.
Negotiations towards establishing a permanent police shop on the estate are in the hands of the property services branches of both the MPS and Hackney, but will hopefully be concluded within the next few months.
Finfuture
The Hackney Gazette ran a positive piece on the work being done to regenerate Finsbury Park, which they picked up on from our blog!
Licensing
The Spring Park Hotel sex encounter premises application was heard on Thursday 11th January. All three councillors attended. Darren and a number of residents spoke on behalf of Brownswood ward to oppose the application, while Tory Cllr Maureen Middleton spoke on behalf of New River residents. After long deliberation, the panel decided to grant the application with a number of conditions; an extremely disappointing result. The hotel was not granted an extension to its licence to serve alcohol though, and the sex encounter licence will be reviewed from March this year - giving us the opportunity to object if any of the feared problems connected to the licence do materialise.
Parkwood School
The school’s new playground got a special commendation in the recent Hackney Design Awards.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Kings Crescent and Alexandra National
Find previous reports here.
For those who have asked, here is a brief history of these schemes -
1)In March 2006, Cabinet granted approval to proceed to tender for selection of developer partners for the following estates:
Colville Estate
Kings Crescent Estate
Tower Court, Alexander National House, Randlesham, Ottaway Court, Bridge & Marian Courts (the Six Estates)
2) Seven Developer/RSLs were shortlisted and received tender documentations on 4th September. Tenders were returned on 27th November 2006.
3) In October groups of residents representatives and councillors visited development sites/completed schemes of the shortlisted candidates.
4) Tenders have been assessed on the basis of agreed evaluation criteria. The Evaluation Panel assessing the quality of tender submissions comprised resident representatives from each estate supported by their independent tenant and leaseholder advisors (ITLA), and officers with expert knowledge in different areas such as planning and construction training.
5) Financial viability assessment was carried out separately and independently.
6) This was followed by interview of, and presentations by, all bidders which took place on 12th and 13th December 2006.
7) Further meetings with residents’ representatives and their ITLAs are being arranged.
8) The selection process will be finalised shortly and a report will be submitted to the meeting of the Cabinet in February for decision.
For those who have asked, here is a brief history of these schemes -
1)In March 2006, Cabinet granted approval to proceed to tender for selection of developer partners for the following estates:
Colville Estate
Kings Crescent Estate
Tower Court, Alexander National House, Randlesham, Ottaway Court, Bridge & Marian Courts (the Six Estates)
2) Seven Developer/RSLs were shortlisted and received tender documentations on 4th September. Tenders were returned on 27th November 2006.
3) In October groups of residents representatives and councillors visited development sites/completed schemes of the shortlisted candidates.
4) Tenders have been assessed on the basis of agreed evaluation criteria. The Evaluation Panel assessing the quality of tender submissions comprised resident representatives from each estate supported by their independent tenant and leaseholder advisors (ITLA), and officers with expert knowledge in different areas such as planning and construction training.
5) Financial viability assessment was carried out separately and independently.
6) This was followed by interview of, and presentations by, all bidders which took place on 12th and 13th December 2006.
7) Further meetings with residents’ representatives and their ITLAs are being arranged.
8) The selection process will be finalised shortly and a report will be submitted to the meeting of the Cabinet in February for decision.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
January update
from the Brownswood Councillors
Woodberry Down
The regeneration of Woodberry Down has taken another major step forward with the December Cabinet meeting agreeing to support the residents preferred option for the future. This (“Option 2”) would see a single housing association and development consortium selected to lead the process. They would be expected to establish an unique ‘Community Based Housing Association’ for Woodberry Down, and assist the campaign to win a stock transfer ballot.
As stated, this was the option strongly supported by the residents through their Estate Development Committee. “Option 3” which was chosen as the backup, sees ownership and management transferring incrementally. Just a reminder that the advantages include
· 4,316 new homes
· investment of approx 653 million
· new health centre and children’s centre
· new primary school and secondary school
· resident control of the social housing through the CBHA
There is a further meeting with the Woodberry Grove retailers scheduled for 16th January.
Kings Crescent
A report is now due to go to the February Cabinet recommending development partners for Kings Crescent, following a process including technical evaluation and interview of the housing associations and builders forming each of the partnerships by residents and officers. Once they have been chosen and the legal agreements completed, they will be expected to begin detailed consultation with residents on the regeneration plans. As previously mentioned this is likely to involve clearance of the Green Lanes frontage for redevelopment, and refurbishment of the blocks along Brownswood Road and Queens Drive for possible retention by the council.
However there is even better news. While most of the overall regeneration will be funded through the new partnership, we also put in a bid for a special London-wide fund for 2.5million to make an early start to some of that. The Government and London Mayor announced at the end of November, that this bid has been successful. This means that we can begin the refurbishment a year earlier than otherwise.
The intention is to make a start on the blocks along Brownswood Road as soon as a contract can be let. Demolition works on the further areas to be cleared should also commence in the new year.
Alexandra National House/ “Six estates”
Similarly the next couple of months should see a development partnership appointed for the package of six estates which includes Alexandra National. Because it covers six estates spread throughout Hackney, it difficult for anyone of have the same sense of ownership of these proposals and therefore possible the schemes will be developer-led.
For example one of those for Alexandra National involves new retail units at ground floor level, while another has a 20 storey tower block on the north-west corner, ie taller than the existing one.
Police Community Advisory Panel for Brownswood
The Police Community Advisory Panel meets every two months to give our safer neighbourhoods team and the wider police force, some direction as to what their priorities should be. It currently meets at 6.30pm on a Wednesday in a local school; the next one being on Wednesday 10th January.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
Feryat attended the estate committee on 16th November.
Licensing
The Spring Park Hotel sex encounter premises application is now scheduled for 7pm on Thursday 11th January. It was previously due to be heard at a daytime hearing in December but the councillors had this delayed to a more suitable time.
School results
Hackney’s results overall have continued to improve markedly year on year. But for the second time in three years, our local school Parkwood is in the top 2% nationally based on the scores below:
English Maths Science
Hackney average 71% 65% 76%
National average 79% 76% 87%
Parkwood primary 90% 87% 90%
(achieving Level 4 at age 11-12)
It should also be stressed that this extraordinary achievement was still based on a class which was significantly more deprived than even the Hackney average. Congratulations to all the pupils, families and staff.
Woodberry Down
The regeneration of Woodberry Down has taken another major step forward with the December Cabinet meeting agreeing to support the residents preferred option for the future. This (“Option 2”) would see a single housing association and development consortium selected to lead the process. They would be expected to establish an unique ‘Community Based Housing Association’ for Woodberry Down, and assist the campaign to win a stock transfer ballot.
As stated, this was the option strongly supported by the residents through their Estate Development Committee. “Option 3” which was chosen as the backup, sees ownership and management transferring incrementally. Just a reminder that the advantages include
· 4,316 new homes
· investment of approx 653 million
· new health centre and children’s centre
· new primary school and secondary school
· resident control of the social housing through the CBHA
There is a further meeting with the Woodberry Grove retailers scheduled for 16th January.
Kings Crescent
A report is now due to go to the February Cabinet recommending development partners for Kings Crescent, following a process including technical evaluation and interview of the housing associations and builders forming each of the partnerships by residents and officers. Once they have been chosen and the legal agreements completed, they will be expected to begin detailed consultation with residents on the regeneration plans. As previously mentioned this is likely to involve clearance of the Green Lanes frontage for redevelopment, and refurbishment of the blocks along Brownswood Road and Queens Drive for possible retention by the council.
However there is even better news. While most of the overall regeneration will be funded through the new partnership, we also put in a bid for a special London-wide fund for 2.5million to make an early start to some of that. The Government and London Mayor announced at the end of November, that this bid has been successful. This means that we can begin the refurbishment a year earlier than otherwise.
The intention is to make a start on the blocks along Brownswood Road as soon as a contract can be let. Demolition works on the further areas to be cleared should also commence in the new year.
Alexandra National House/ “Six estates”
Similarly the next couple of months should see a development partnership appointed for the package of six estates which includes Alexandra National. Because it covers six estates spread throughout Hackney, it difficult for anyone of have the same sense of ownership of these proposals and therefore possible the schemes will be developer-led.
For example one of those for Alexandra National involves new retail units at ground floor level, while another has a 20 storey tower block on the north-west corner, ie taller than the existing one.
Police Community Advisory Panel for Brownswood
The Police Community Advisory Panel meets every two months to give our safer neighbourhoods team and the wider police force, some direction as to what their priorities should be. It currently meets at 6.30pm on a Wednesday in a local school; the next one being on Wednesday 10th January.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
Feryat attended the estate committee on 16th November.
Licensing
The Spring Park Hotel sex encounter premises application is now scheduled for 7pm on Thursday 11th January. It was previously due to be heard at a daytime hearing in December but the councillors had this delayed to a more suitable time.
School results
Hackney’s results overall have continued to improve markedly year on year. But for the second time in three years, our local school Parkwood is in the top 2% nationally based on the scores below:
English Maths Science
Hackney average 71% 65% 76%
National average 79% 76% 87%
Parkwood primary 90% 87% 90%
(achieving Level 4 at age 11-12)
It should also be stressed that this extraordinary achievement was still based on a class which was significantly more deprived than even the Hackney average. Congratulations to all the pupils, families and staff.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
FinFuture
Finsbury Park has always suffered from the fact that it is at the junction of three local authority areas, and therefore also three health and police areas. In addition Transport for London, Network Rail and the British Transport Police are key partners because of the importance of the satation and other transport links.
FinFuture was the organisation set up earlier this year to promote co-operation between the three councils and other agencies. Their own website can be found here. It should be stressed that Finfuture is an emerging organisation with a stricly limited amount of resources and staff, and with no statutory powers. It can however play a very valuable role in co-ordinating the efforts of these bodies, enabling joint working and promoting the area. This was greatly enhanced by it succesfully bidding for an London Development Agency programme called "Town Centres for City Growth". This gives it an additional 1.5 million over 3 years to improve and market the area.
Brian Bell is Hackney's representative on the Finfuture Board. The board also includes representatives from the other boroughs, local businesses and elected residents. It held an awayday at the West Resevoir Centre in Brownswood yesterday, to further develop its role and identify priorities for the future. Additional councillors from Haringey and Islington attended. Among the key issues identifed were -
* promoting FinFuture as an organisation to residents, business and the three councils
* enhancing the appearance of it's HQ at 225-229 Seven Sisters Road
* using demographic research to help ensure we are reaching all the local communities
* continue to be responsive to local traders
* improving the environment, streetscene and public realm
* develop the board as a cohesive and active body
Blackstock Road
Improving Blackstock and dealing with the perception of ASB and intimidation there, remains one of FinFuture's priorities. A further meeting on 22nd November on this issue was very constructive. About 15 traders attended - the majority Algerian, but also a couple from older established firms and a couple from the Ethiopian businesses in Rock Street. Brian represented Hackney, and three Islington councillors (2 Labour, 1 Lib Dem) and Jeremy Corbyn's PA were there. Both police divisions were represented.
The issues they wanted the two boroughs to take up were
* CCTV
* Improved lighting
* Cleanliness and appearance
The issues Finfuture agreed to help co-ordinate were
* Business support and marketing of the area (they have contracted Hackney Business Venture to do the former)
* Facilitating greater police co-operation
* Installing alert boxes and radios in businesses in the area
* Arranging further consultation and holding at least one public meeting
There was also discussion of encouraging a mini-festival some time in the summer, to help encourage the different communities to mix more and try each others food, etc. This would require a temporary closure of part of the road. PLEASE LET US HAVE YOUR OPINIONS ON THIS!
FinFuture was the organisation set up earlier this year to promote co-operation between the three councils and other agencies. Their own website can be found here. It should be stressed that Finfuture is an emerging organisation with a stricly limited amount of resources and staff, and with no statutory powers. It can however play a very valuable role in co-ordinating the efforts of these bodies, enabling joint working and promoting the area. This was greatly enhanced by it succesfully bidding for an London Development Agency programme called "Town Centres for City Growth". This gives it an additional 1.5 million over 3 years to improve and market the area.
Brian Bell is Hackney's representative on the Finfuture Board. The board also includes representatives from the other boroughs, local businesses and elected residents. It held an awayday at the West Resevoir Centre in Brownswood yesterday, to further develop its role and identify priorities for the future. Additional councillors from Haringey and Islington attended. Among the key issues identifed were -
* promoting FinFuture as an organisation to residents, business and the three councils
* enhancing the appearance of it's HQ at 225-229 Seven Sisters Road
* using demographic research to help ensure we are reaching all the local communities
* continue to be responsive to local traders
* improving the environment, streetscene and public realm
* develop the board as a cohesive and active body
Blackstock Road
Improving Blackstock and dealing with the perception of ASB and intimidation there, remains one of FinFuture's priorities. A further meeting on 22nd November on this issue was very constructive. About 15 traders attended - the majority Algerian, but also a couple from older established firms and a couple from the Ethiopian businesses in Rock Street. Brian represented Hackney, and three Islington councillors (2 Labour, 1 Lib Dem) and Jeremy Corbyn's PA were there. Both police divisions were represented.
The issues they wanted the two boroughs to take up were
* CCTV
* Improved lighting
* Cleanliness and appearance
The issues Finfuture agreed to help co-ordinate were
* Business support and marketing of the area (they have contracted Hackney Business Venture to do the former)
* Facilitating greater police co-operation
* Installing alert boxes and radios in businesses in the area
* Arranging further consultation and holding at least one public meeting
There was also discussion of encouraging a mini-festival some time in the summer, to help encourage the different communities to mix more and try each others food, etc. This would require a temporary closure of part of the road. PLEASE LET US HAVE YOUR OPINIONS ON THIS!
Friday, November 24, 2006
Extra 2.554 million for Kings Crescent Estate
Government announcement means refurbishment can begin immediately
The competition to pick development partners for the Kings Crescent Estate
is nearing its conclusion. At the Steering Group (which Brian chairs) on Wednesday night, it was agreed
that exhibitions of the schemes proposed by the remaining partnerships would be
available for residents to view on the 5th of December. A panel of resident
representatives will interview the builders and housing associations forming
each of the partnerships, the following day. This together with the
technical evaluations should mean that a recommendation is ready to go to
Cabinet on 29th January. The detailed regeneration plans will then be worked
through with residents and the council, to allow works to start later next
year.
However there is even better news. While most of the overall regeneration
will be funded through the new partnership, we also put in a bid for a
special London-wide fund for 2.5million to make an early start to some of
that. The Government and London Mayor announced today that this bid has been
successful - see attached letter. This means that we can begin the
refurbishment a year earlier than otherwise. The intention is to make a
start on the blocks along Brownswood Road as soon as a contract can be let.
Demolition works on the further areas to be cleared should also commence in
the new year.
The competition to pick development partners for the Kings Crescent Estate
is nearing its conclusion. At the Steering Group (which Brian chairs) on Wednesday night, it was agreed
that exhibitions of the schemes proposed by the remaining partnerships would be
available for residents to view on the 5th of December. A panel of resident
representatives will interview the builders and housing associations forming
each of the partnerships, the following day. This together with the
technical evaluations should mean that a recommendation is ready to go to
Cabinet on 29th January. The detailed regeneration plans will then be worked
through with residents and the council, to allow works to start later next
year.
However there is even better news. While most of the overall regeneration
will be funded through the new partnership, we also put in a bid for a
special London-wide fund for 2.5million to make an early start to some of
that. The Government and London Mayor announced today that this bid has been
successful - see attached letter. This means that we can begin the
refurbishment a year earlier than otherwise. The intention is to make a
start on the blocks along Brownswood Road as soon as a contract can be let.
Demolition works on the further areas to be cleared should also commence in
the new year.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Police Community Advisory Panel for Brownswood needs new members - APPLY HERE
The Police Community Advisory Panel meets every two months to give our safer neighbourhoods team and the wider police force, some direction as to what their priorities should be. It currently meets at 6.30pm on a Wednesday in a local school, AND NEEDS NEW MEMBERS. Please contact us with your email address, via the comment function if you're interested.
Issues discussed at the last meeting on 8th November included-
* crime and ASB on Blackstock Road
* vice on Brownswood Road
* police activity at Manor House
* sex encounter premises licence applications
The most recent crime figures for our ward can be accessed here. Many are encouraging especially in relation to the Hackney or London averages, but there remains much to do. Remember however that the sexual offences category will be artifically inflated whenever there is successful anti-vice activity!
Issues discussed at the last meeting on 8th November included-
* crime and ASB on Blackstock Road
* vice on Brownswood Road
* police activity at Manor House
* sex encounter premises licence applications
The most recent crime figures for our ward can be accessed here. Many are encouraging especially in relation to the Hackney or London averages, but there remains much to do. Remember however that the sexual offences category will be artifically inflated whenever there is successful anti-vice activity!
Monday, November 06, 2006
Zebra Upgrade - Woodberry Grove
The zebra crossing outside the shops on Woodberry Grove is to replaced and upgraded shortly - more details here.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Gloucester Drive fifth most haunted street in the country!
According to this piece in the Halloween edition of the Guardian, Gloucester Drive is haunted by "ghostly kids". If you know more, please tell us !
Britain's most haunted roads Special reports Guardian Unlimited
Britain's most haunted roads Special reports Guardian Unlimited
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Late October update
The Lido's open!
Full Council November 1st 2006
Wednesday’s full council meeting has a lot of Brownswood interest. Brian is introducing a deputation of residents of Kings Crescent concerning the lack of planned maintenance. There is also a deputation from the shopkeepers on Woodberry Grove to protest the effects of the regeneration on their business. Feryat will be asking a question which highlights the excellent value–added results in Hackney primary schools, particularly Parkwood on Queens Drive.
Parking consultation
Although the recent meeting was poorly attended, there was a useful discussion amongst those present. Public response to the idea of Arsenal match day controls within a one mile radius of the new ground, has been positive but there is to be a further round of consultation with all residents before a scheme proceeds.
Woodberry Down
All three councillors attended a meeting with the shopkeepers on 11th October. There is a concern that the council feels unable to guarantee first right of refusal on leases in the new shopping parade for current retailers. Many of the shopkeepers are facing financial problems due to the declining population on the estate and need more support in the short/medium term. A deputation of retailers will go to full council on 1st November to voice their concerns. Brian, Darren and Feryat have also written to the Woodberry Down regeneration manager.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
Feryat attended the TA on 26th October, and will be at the estate committee on 16th November.
Kings Crescent
Brian accompanied residents to developments showcasing both the builder and housing association parts of the partnerships competing to take part in the regeneration, on Saturdays 7th and 14th October. The shortlist has now been reduced to two. If the rest of the programme stays to schedule, a new development partner could be agreed by the end of December.
And finally London Fields Lido is open
The Lido opened to the public on 26th October. Local residents and potential user groups had been shown around earlier in the week. It’s still packed despite the weather. As far we know, no other public lido has been opened or renovated in decades.
Full Council November 1st 2006
Wednesday’s full council meeting has a lot of Brownswood interest. Brian is introducing a deputation of residents of Kings Crescent concerning the lack of planned maintenance. There is also a deputation from the shopkeepers on Woodberry Grove to protest the effects of the regeneration on their business. Feryat will be asking a question which highlights the excellent value–added results in Hackney primary schools, particularly Parkwood on Queens Drive.
Parking consultation
Although the recent meeting was poorly attended, there was a useful discussion amongst those present. Public response to the idea of Arsenal match day controls within a one mile radius of the new ground, has been positive but there is to be a further round of consultation with all residents before a scheme proceeds.
Woodberry Down
All three councillors attended a meeting with the shopkeepers on 11th October. There is a concern that the council feels unable to guarantee first right of refusal on leases in the new shopping parade for current retailers. Many of the shopkeepers are facing financial problems due to the declining population on the estate and need more support in the short/medium term. A deputation of retailers will go to full council on 1st November to voice their concerns. Brian, Darren and Feryat have also written to the Woodberry Down regeneration manager.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
Feryat attended the TA on 26th October, and will be at the estate committee on 16th November.
Kings Crescent
Brian accompanied residents to developments showcasing both the builder and housing association parts of the partnerships competing to take part in the regeneration, on Saturdays 7th and 14th October. The shortlist has now been reduced to two. If the rest of the programme stays to schedule, a new development partner could be agreed by the end of December.
And finally London Fields Lido is open
The Lido opened to the public on 26th October. Local residents and potential user groups had been shown around earlier in the week. It’s still packed despite the weather. As far we know, no other public lido has been opened or renovated in decades.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
That Nike windfall
Nike cash to go to grassroots sport
Following its £300,000 windfall from Nike. Hackney Council is setting up a unique community fund for disadvantaged athletes, coaches, the disability sport sector and voluntary sports clubs in the borough.
The Council is putting £220,000 into a Youth Sports Development Fund (YSDF). The fund will support bursaries for financially disadvantaged talented athletes, training for volunteer sports coaches, and the development of the voluntary sports club sector and disability sport sector in Hackney.
The fund also aims to encourage participation among groups that traditionally do not participate in sport and physical activity. It supports the Mayor’s priority to develop sport for young people in Hackney, and will be used to develop Hackney’s role in the London Youth Games.
Sports organisations throughout Hackney will be able to apply for grants from the YSDF, although they will usually be expected to match the Council’s funding to qualify. The fund will be administered by a panel made up of representatives from the Council, the Learning Trust, the Primary Care Trust, Hackney Sports Forum, Disability Hackney and the Council’s leisure partner, Greenwich Leisure Limited.
Other projects are being considered for the remaining £80,000 of the Nike windfall. These include:
· Developing the girls football club programme
· A new football development programme for under 11s
· Rolling out the Sports Coach UK accredited programme
· Coaching for disability swimming
· Taster sessions in a variety of sports
· Equipment to encourage new club development
· Street dance sessions for 8 to 12-year-olds on housing estates
· Gymnastics training for teachers and extracurricular gym clubs
This will be publicised in Hackney Today along with contact/process details.
Following its £300,000 windfall from Nike. Hackney Council is setting up a unique community fund for disadvantaged athletes, coaches, the disability sport sector and voluntary sports clubs in the borough.
The Council is putting £220,000 into a Youth Sports Development Fund (YSDF). The fund will support bursaries for financially disadvantaged talented athletes, training for volunteer sports coaches, and the development of the voluntary sports club sector and disability sport sector in Hackney.
The fund also aims to encourage participation among groups that traditionally do not participate in sport and physical activity. It supports the Mayor’s priority to develop sport for young people in Hackney, and will be used to develop Hackney’s role in the London Youth Games.
Sports organisations throughout Hackney will be able to apply for grants from the YSDF, although they will usually be expected to match the Council’s funding to qualify. The fund will be administered by a panel made up of representatives from the Council, the Learning Trust, the Primary Care Trust, Hackney Sports Forum, Disability Hackney and the Council’s leisure partner, Greenwich Leisure Limited.
Other projects are being considered for the remaining £80,000 of the Nike windfall. These include:
· Developing the girls football club programme
· A new football development programme for under 11s
· Rolling out the Sports Coach UK accredited programme
· Coaching for disability swimming
· Taster sessions in a variety of sports
· Equipment to encourage new club development
· Street dance sessions for 8 to 12-year-olds on housing estates
· Gymnastics training for teachers and extracurricular gym clubs
This will be publicised in Hackney Today along with contact/process details.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Recycling
Successful experiment to be rolled out
Compulsory recycling was introduced in 12,500 homes in four wards in Hackney, including Brownswood, in February. It has been an outstanding success and will now be extended.
1299 homes in the ward, representing 69% of the population, began participating immediately.
589 homes, representing over 30%, began participating later or upon receipt of a reminder letter.
Only 17 homes - less than 1% - needed a second warning.
Three separate pilot schemes are to be trialed on estates to see which works best there.
It's also worth pointing out that all of Hackney's remaining waste goes to be burnt in the incinerator at Edmonton, which produces electricity which is then sold at a premium to the National Grid. Even the clinker remaining at the end of this is used for road surfacing. Virtually nothing goes to landfill!
We're probably not allowed to point out that Brownswood was by far the best at recycling. Up to 10% of people needed two reminders in some other wards we won't mention.
Compulsory recycling was introduced in 12,500 homes in four wards in Hackney, including Brownswood, in February. It has been an outstanding success and will now be extended.
1299 homes in the ward, representing 69% of the population, began participating immediately.
589 homes, representing over 30%, began participating later or upon receipt of a reminder letter.
Only 17 homes - less than 1% - needed a second warning.
Three separate pilot schemes are to be trialed on estates to see which works best there.
It's also worth pointing out that all of Hackney's remaining waste goes to be burnt in the incinerator at Edmonton, which produces electricity which is then sold at a premium to the National Grid. Even the clinker remaining at the end of this is used for road surfacing. Virtually nothing goes to landfill!
We're probably not allowed to point out that Brownswood was by far the best at recycling. Up to 10% of people needed two reminders in some other wards we won't mention.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Community Safety in Brownswood
Police operations
Further to our previous reports, please find below an update on three recent police operations specifically aimed at drug dealers/pimps, kerb crawlers and prostitutes.
VICE ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 18th-22nd Sept 2006
During this operation officer's from the Met's Clubs and Vice Unit in conjunction with local officers, patrolled Brownswood Road and other red light areas to enforce prostitution legislation. There were sixteen (16) arrests for prostitution/loitering and one for other matters. Thirty-eight (38) prostitute cautions were administered. Outreach workers from the 'Open Doors' and Nia projects were advised of arrests and were able to offer their services at the police station.
The operation ran from Monday to Friday and it was noted that by the end of the week there were no prostitutes in the usual areas. Displacement had taken place into the Kingsland Waste and Crossways junction areas on the A10. Clubs and Vice unit reported that there was also noticeable displacement to surrounding boroughs towards the end of the week.
DRUGS ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 25th-29th September
Although this operation resulted in 23 arrests of which 11 were drug related, the team found no evidence of drug dealers to be found in or around the Brownswood road area on the dates shown. The local Safer Neighbourhoods Team, Drugs Task Force and Transport for London support officers took part in this operation.
KERB CRAWLING ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 02nd - 05th October
Officers from the Met's Clubs and Vice Unit, local SNT officers and Traffic officers took part in this operation. It resulted in 21 Kerb Crawlers arrested, 9 had their cars seized, 7 received £200 fines and 6 points on their licence for having no insurance. 8 received £60 fines and 3 points on their licence. All were charged with the offence and will be appearing at court on 19th of October.
Prevention dot-matrix sign
A dot-matrix sign has been placed on Brownswood Road at the Junction with Digby Crescent N4. This will hopefully help to reduce further incidences of prostitution, kerb crawling and drug dealing. The police would appreciate any feedback on the wording displayed on the sign. It can be changed on a daily basis if you can come up with anything a bit punchier.
Accommodation
The positive message on this front is that the police will be moving into the old shops on Kelshall Court in the Kings Crescent Estate. The timetable will depend on the relevant ones being fitted out to their specifications. The local councillors helped make sure that the housing department offered them this base.
Further to our previous reports, please find below an update on three recent police operations specifically aimed at drug dealers/pimps, kerb crawlers and prostitutes.
VICE ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 18th-22nd Sept 2006
During this operation officer's from the Met's Clubs and Vice Unit in conjunction with local officers, patrolled Brownswood Road and other red light areas to enforce prostitution legislation. There were sixteen (16) arrests for prostitution/loitering and one for other matters. Thirty-eight (38) prostitute cautions were administered. Outreach workers from the 'Open Doors' and Nia projects were advised of arrests and were able to offer their services at the police station.
The operation ran from Monday to Friday and it was noted that by the end of the week there were no prostitutes in the usual areas. Displacement had taken place into the Kingsland Waste and Crossways junction areas on the A10. Clubs and Vice unit reported that there was also noticeable displacement to surrounding boroughs towards the end of the week.
DRUGS ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 25th-29th September
Although this operation resulted in 23 arrests of which 11 were drug related, the team found no evidence of drug dealers to be found in or around the Brownswood road area on the dates shown. The local Safer Neighbourhoods Team, Drugs Task Force and Transport for London support officers took part in this operation.
KERB CRAWLING ENFORCEMENT OPERATION 02nd - 05th October
Officers from the Met's Clubs and Vice Unit, local SNT officers and Traffic officers took part in this operation. It resulted in 21 Kerb Crawlers arrested, 9 had their cars seized, 7 received £200 fines and 6 points on their licence for having no insurance. 8 received £60 fines and 3 points on their licence. All were charged with the offence and will be appearing at court on 19th of October.
Prevention dot-matrix sign
A dot-matrix sign has been placed on Brownswood Road at the Junction with Digby Crescent N4. This will hopefully help to reduce further incidences of prostitution, kerb crawling and drug dealing. The police would appreciate any feedback on the wording displayed on the sign. It can be changed on a daily basis if you can come up with anything a bit punchier.
Accommodation
The positive message on this front is that the police will be moving into the old shops on Kelshall Court in the Kings Crescent Estate. The timetable will depend on the relevant ones being fitted out to their specifications. The local councillors helped make sure that the housing department offered them this base.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Parking consultation - 7pm Tuesday 24th October
Same old Tories
Parking consultation - Stoke Newington Neighbourhood Forum
A reminder that there is a special meeting from 7pm on Tuesday 24th October in the Gallery, behind Stoke Newington Library, to discuss the outcome of the consultation on parking. We had to fight resistance by council officers and insist on further public consultation, so please come along and make your views known.
Labour Group awayday
The Group had an awayday on Sunday 10th September to review implementation of the manifesto and how to continue local campaigning.
Finsbury Park and FinFuture
Finsbury Park as an area continuously suffers from being at the junction of three local authority, police and health areas. It’s importance as a town centre tends not to be properly acknowledged by any of them. We need to ensure that changes.
FinFuture was the organisation established to take over the work of the previous Finsbury Park Partnership. It has recently been awarded a 1.5 million LDA contract to co-ordinate town centre growth. Brian serves on their board and recently arranged a meeting with the council’s Regeneration and Neighbourhoods Directorate to ensure effective co-ordination.
We also need to ensure it is properly identified as a town centre within the council’s LDF (explained below) as this progresses.
Woodberry Down
The development of the masterplan for the estate continues, and should go for outline planning consent in December. Hackney’s planners are holding their ground for a much smaller tower on the old school site, while the design consultants would prefer to go up to 20 storeys.
A meeting of the shopkeepers on the estate and the regeneration team is to be held on Oct 11th to discuss what provision can be made for their smooth transition into the new retail units. Communication with the retailers has been seriously lacking, and efforts will be made to encourage a representative to sit on the EDC - Estate Development Committee.
The Tories continue to be extremely negative in their engagement and use the EDC as a platform to score cheap political points. We need to work out how to can help the residents regain more control, not just over the regeneration process but within their own meeting considering the attempts to hijack the agenda each month.
Labour Group 19th September
The Labour Group approved a draft green spaces strategy, and an approach to further housing regeneration. We also had a useful discussion on our local strategic partnership “Team Hackney” and how the council tends to get blamed for their actions even when we have little or no involvement.
Full Council 20th September
The main item at this month’s full council was to adopt the version of the council’s Local Development Framework to be published for consultation. The LDF is the new term for all of the planning policies for the borough.
This should have been an opportunity for a wide-ranging debate on the future of Hackney, and the type and standard of development we require. Instead the Tories wasted everyone’s time with hysterical allegations about domestic extensions in Stamford Hill.
During the election they ran this line that we were intending to particularly restrict extensions by the Orthodox Jewish community. Of course it was nonsense then and is nonsense now. However dishonest that was, you can understand their motivation for doing it during the election to motivate their core vote to turn out. It appears that they have now become so deluded, they believe their own propaganda.
Planning
The Planning Committee on 21st September approved, amongst other things, the outline proposals for the first three secondary schools in the Building Schools for the Future programme – Stoke Newington, Clapton Girls and Hackney Free & Parochial.
Cycling
Cycle racks are due to be installed in front of the shops at the junction of Green Lanes and Brownswood Road. If you are aware of any further suitable locations or other measures we could promote, please let us know.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
The AGM of the TRA was held on the 21st September attended by officers, 15 residents from Portland Rise and Amwell Court and Feryat. The current chair, vice chair and secretary were re elected on to the TRA.
Kings Crescent
Three development partnerships for the estate have now been shortlisted. Visits to comparable estates have been arranged for 7th and 14th October. If the rest of the programme stays to schedule, a new development partner could be agreed by mid-December.
Overall performance
It’s no secret that back in the dark days of no overall control, the council was one of the worst performing on most measures. We know that things have steadily improved since Labour took back control but it’s always nice to have independent verification of that.
The recent Joint Area Review of education and children’s social services scored the council as 3 on a scale of 1 to 4. To date, no authority has scored higher.
The Comprehensive Performance Assessment by the Audit Commission rated us a “strong 2” on the same scale and agreed we were continuing to improve.
The District Auditor gave us a virtually unqualified approval of last year’s accounts, for the first time in living memory.
School results improved by three times the national average. No schools are in special measures. A second new secondary school opened in September, with a third scheduled for next September.
Overall crime is down 22%. Burglary and motor vehicle crime are falling faster than anywhere else. Gun crime, rape, domestic violence and racist crime are down significantly. Violent crime especially involving knives, continues to be a priority.
And finally … the football score
Hackney 300,000 Nike 0
As you may have heard, Hackney has agreed an out of court settlement with sportswear giant Nike, who had used our logo without permission. The money will be ring-fenced to sports development for young people.
“The astonishing win by Hackney LBC against Nike over the latter’s misuse of the council’s logo must surely rank as one of the greatest public sector achievements of the decade.
First it portrays little old Hackney as the David battling on behalf of its taxpayers against the over-mighty private sector. Next it was an audacious and daring move by the council to pursue the case when the temptation might have been to avoid litigation against such a powerful adversary, or indeed, lamely conclude that it was good free publicity.
Thirdly, the court win has helped dispel Hackney’s image as a basket-case council, and closed a chapter on the past.” (Municipal Journal 14.9.6)
Parking consultation - Stoke Newington Neighbourhood Forum
A reminder that there is a special meeting from 7pm on Tuesday 24th October in the Gallery, behind Stoke Newington Library, to discuss the outcome of the consultation on parking. We had to fight resistance by council officers and insist on further public consultation, so please come along and make your views known.
Labour Group awayday
The Group had an awayday on Sunday 10th September to review implementation of the manifesto and how to continue local campaigning.
Finsbury Park and FinFuture
Finsbury Park as an area continuously suffers from being at the junction of three local authority, police and health areas. It’s importance as a town centre tends not to be properly acknowledged by any of them. We need to ensure that changes.
FinFuture was the organisation established to take over the work of the previous Finsbury Park Partnership. It has recently been awarded a 1.5 million LDA contract to co-ordinate town centre growth. Brian serves on their board and recently arranged a meeting with the council’s Regeneration and Neighbourhoods Directorate to ensure effective co-ordination.
We also need to ensure it is properly identified as a town centre within the council’s LDF (explained below) as this progresses.
Woodberry Down
The development of the masterplan for the estate continues, and should go for outline planning consent in December. Hackney’s planners are holding their ground for a much smaller tower on the old school site, while the design consultants would prefer to go up to 20 storeys.
A meeting of the shopkeepers on the estate and the regeneration team is to be held on Oct 11th to discuss what provision can be made for their smooth transition into the new retail units. Communication with the retailers has been seriously lacking, and efforts will be made to encourage a representative to sit on the EDC - Estate Development Committee.
The Tories continue to be extremely negative in their engagement and use the EDC as a platform to score cheap political points. We need to work out how to can help the residents regain more control, not just over the regeneration process but within their own meeting considering the attempts to hijack the agenda each month.
Labour Group 19th September
The Labour Group approved a draft green spaces strategy, and an approach to further housing regeneration. We also had a useful discussion on our local strategic partnership “Team Hackney” and how the council tends to get blamed for their actions even when we have little or no involvement.
Full Council 20th September
The main item at this month’s full council was to adopt the version of the council’s Local Development Framework to be published for consultation. The LDF is the new term for all of the planning policies for the borough.
This should have been an opportunity for a wide-ranging debate on the future of Hackney, and the type and standard of development we require. Instead the Tories wasted everyone’s time with hysterical allegations about domestic extensions in Stamford Hill.
During the election they ran this line that we were intending to particularly restrict extensions by the Orthodox Jewish community. Of course it was nonsense then and is nonsense now. However dishonest that was, you can understand their motivation for doing it during the election to motivate their core vote to turn out. It appears that they have now become so deluded, they believe their own propaganda.
Planning
The Planning Committee on 21st September approved, amongst other things, the outline proposals for the first three secondary schools in the Building Schools for the Future programme – Stoke Newington, Clapton Girls and Hackney Free & Parochial.
Cycling
Cycle racks are due to be installed in front of the shops at the junction of Green Lanes and Brownswood Road. If you are aware of any further suitable locations or other measures we could promote, please let us know.
Portland Rise and Amwell Court
The AGM of the TRA was held on the 21st September attended by officers, 15 residents from Portland Rise and Amwell Court and Feryat. The current chair, vice chair and secretary were re elected on to the TRA.
Kings Crescent
Three development partnerships for the estate have now been shortlisted. Visits to comparable estates have been arranged for 7th and 14th October. If the rest of the programme stays to schedule, a new development partner could be agreed by mid-December.
Overall performance
It’s no secret that back in the dark days of no overall control, the council was one of the worst performing on most measures. We know that things have steadily improved since Labour took back control but it’s always nice to have independent verification of that.
The recent Joint Area Review of education and children’s social services scored the council as 3 on a scale of 1 to 4. To date, no authority has scored higher.
The Comprehensive Performance Assessment by the Audit Commission rated us a “strong 2” on the same scale and agreed we were continuing to improve.
The District Auditor gave us a virtually unqualified approval of last year’s accounts, for the first time in living memory.
School results improved by three times the national average. No schools are in special measures. A second new secondary school opened in September, with a third scheduled for next September.
Overall crime is down 22%. Burglary and motor vehicle crime are falling faster than anywhere else. Gun crime, rape, domestic violence and racist crime are down significantly. Violent crime especially involving knives, continues to be a priority.
And finally … the football score
Hackney 300,000 Nike 0
As you may have heard, Hackney has agreed an out of court settlement with sportswear giant Nike, who had used our logo without permission. The money will be ring-fenced to sports development for young people.
“The astonishing win by Hackney LBC against Nike over the latter’s misuse of the council’s logo must surely rank as one of the greatest public sector achievements of the decade.
First it portrays little old Hackney as the David battling on behalf of its taxpayers against the over-mighty private sector. Next it was an audacious and daring move by the council to pursue the case when the temptation might have been to avoid litigation against such a powerful adversary, or indeed, lamely conclude that it was good free publicity.
Thirdly, the court win has helped dispel Hackney’s image as a basket-case council, and closed a chapter on the past.” (Municipal Journal 14.9.6)
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Brownswood Councillors
Parking Consultation - Special Meeting
There will be a special meeting of the Forum on Tuesday 24th of October in the Gallery behind Stoke Newington Library on Church Street. This will consider the outcome of the recent consultation on parking and subsequent proposals, in both the Brownswood and Clissold areas.
The potential effects on our ward include the amalgamation of the three existing zones into one, which may mean including Saturdays and extending the hours of operation throughout Brownswood. Consultation in both areas also included the possibility of introducing Arsenal matchday restrictions.
We had to fight substantial resistance from council officers to make sure that this meeting happened - so if you have a view, get yourself down there on the 24th!
There will be a special meeting of the Forum on Tuesday 24th of October in the Gallery behind Stoke Newington Library on Church Street. This will consider the outcome of the recent consultation on parking and subsequent proposals, in both the Brownswood and Clissold areas.
The potential effects on our ward include the amalgamation of the three existing zones into one, which may mean including Saturdays and extending the hours of operation throughout Brownswood. Consultation in both areas also included the possibility of introducing Arsenal matchday restrictions.
We had to fight substantial resistance from council officers to make sure that this meeting happened - so if you have a view, get yourself down there on the 24th!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Brownswood Councillors
Summer Term
Stoke Newington Neighbourhood Forum
The first meeting of the new forum was on the 20th July. Angus Mulready Jones (Dalston Ward) was elected Chair and Feryat was elected Vice-Chair. There was an update on the long running saga of Clissold Leisure Centre. We also had a briefing on the proposed National Heritage Lottery Fund bid for Clissold Park and House.
As well as the councillors, each can co-opt local people and we are still looking for at least one from Brownswood. Suggestions would be very welcome.
The next meeting is at 7pm on Wednesday 13th September at Parkwood School. It would be great to see local residents there. Details can be obtained at
http://www.hackney.gov.uk/index.htm/l-mayor-cabinet-councillors/w-commitee-reports.htm
There is also the possibility a special meeting in October to discuss the outcome of the consultation on parking.
Crime and Community Safety
We continue to work to improve conditions on Blackstock Road. To this end we have organised a meeting of the Council’s Neighbourhoods and Regeneration Directorate, whose responsibilities include environment and community safety, and FinFuture on 14th September.
Both local and specialist police attended a meeting with Kings Crescent estate representatives on 23rd August. This led to the innovative use of new powers as detailed below.
The next Community Advisory Panel for the ward’s police team is on Wednesday 6th September. Residents who are interested can get details of future meetings on 02087212030.
Cycle Racks
We have arranged for cycle racks to be installed in front of the shops at the junction of Green Lanes and Brownswood Road. If you are aware of any further suitable locations, please let us know.
Full Council 26th July
We used the opportunity to ask questions on securing funding for Kings Crescent, better co-ordination of activities on Blackstock Road, and gambling policy.
Planning
Darren chaired the planning sub-committee when it decided on the controversial planning application for Dalston Lane South - the site of the old Dalston Theatre. The development is a mixed-use scheme of homes, retail units and a new library as well as a large public square which will sit between the development and the Dalston Interchange site. The application was given permission subject to conditions.
A number of complaints have been made regarding Darren’s role as chair as he works for CABE - the govt’s advisor on architecture, urban design and public space. The design review service of CABE did review the Dalston south scheme as a non-statutory consultee, and concluded that the design was of high quality and would be a welcome contribution to the development of Dalston. Darren played no part in reviewing the scheme, as he is a member of a different directorate at CABE, and had no prejudicial interest that would have precluded him from taking part in the planning committee’s decision.
Lakeside, Portland Rise and St Johns Court
A walkabout of all 3 estates to look at medium sized improvements works took place on Monday 17th July. Various items, including the possibility of creating a kids playground on Portland, will be followed up.
Amwell Court
Feryat will be attending the AGM of the TRA to be held on the 21st of this month. The whole of the Amwell Court has just had Decent Homes work completed, including new bathrooms and kitchens. Residents seem generally happy with the work and the time took to complete it, apart from minor delays with a few of the properties due to access issues.
Woodberry Down
Darren and Brian attended the Estate Development Committee (EDC) on 17th August. The EDC has not received its funding yet for this financial year and we agreed to write to the council to obtain written clarification what the EDC must submit to enable their funds to be released.
Hackney signed a development agreement with Berkley Homes on August 3rd for the “old school site” in Brownswood, which is the first site to be developed and will kick-start the regeneration project into life.
Darren will be presenting an introduction to the regeneration programme at this month’s Labour Party meeting. It is one of the largest of its kind in western Europe. 1,980 homes will be replaced by 4,300 new mixed-tenure homes. The regeneration of social housing is paid for by the income generated from building extra homes and selling them on the open market. The overall objective is to create a more mixed and balanced community, a “total living environment” which integrates community facilities, commercial redevelopment and housing within a more diverse community.
Licensing
We are campaigning against an application by the Spring Park Hotel for a sex encounter license - raising a petition and arranging to represent residents at the hearing, as requested by the TRA and other residents of Portland Rise. Some residents living close to the hotel are also circulating their own petition against the application. Many of those visited voiced great concern about the sex encounter application, as well as complaining about noise that comes from hotels in the area over the weekends and the parking problems caused by hotel users.
The new hackney gambling licensing policy is going through public consultation due to end on September 30th.
Kings Crescent
Regeneration plans took a major step forward this month as the residents approved the detailed refurbishment specifications. They will involve an almost complete refitting of flats on the blocks to be retained, to a high standard. They also approved a Residents Charter setting out the standards of management they expect from any landlord. Invitations To Tender were subsequently issued, and expressions of interest received from most of the main builders and RSLs.
There has been a severe ongoing problem with the empty parts of the estate – Codicote Terrace and Weston Court – being used for drug abuse and prostitution. To counter this an Anti Social Behaviour Closure Order was obtained and served on these areas last week. This means the police can now arrest anyone found abusing these properties for breach of the order instead of or in addition to any particular offences. The area is also due to be properly fenced off this week.
Road, street and lighting works
Details of planned works were circulated on 21st July. Ideas for further ones can be put forward at any time.
Surgeries
As a reminder, times and venues are -
Date: 1st Saturday of each month
Start: 11:00 am End: 12.30 pm
Venue: Amwell Court Community Hall
Address: Green Lanes, London N4
Date: 3rd Wednesday of each month
Start: 6.30pm End: 7.30pm
Venue: Kings Crescent Community Hall
Address: Off Green Lanes, London N4
Date: 1st Friday of each month
Start: 9.00am End: 10.00am
Venue: Robin Redmond Resource Centre
Address: 440 Seven Sisters Road Woodberry Down Estate London N4
Thames Water’s new ringmain
A new water main linking the reservoirs to the central London ringmain at New River Head (adjacent to Sadlers Wells Theatre) is being constructed over the next 10 years. It will run 50 metres deep, from the West Reservoir across Green Lanes, under the Filter Beds Estate, beneath Digby Crescent, under Kings Crescent and out beneath Mountgrove Road. There is predicted to be little effect on the surface other than construction traffic but this will be regular and prolonged, and in addition to all the other capital projects scheduled.
Stoke Newington Neighbourhood Forum
The first meeting of the new forum was on the 20th July. Angus Mulready Jones (Dalston Ward) was elected Chair and Feryat was elected Vice-Chair. There was an update on the long running saga of Clissold Leisure Centre. We also had a briefing on the proposed National Heritage Lottery Fund bid for Clissold Park and House.
As well as the councillors, each can co-opt local people and we are still looking for at least one from Brownswood. Suggestions would be very welcome.
The next meeting is at 7pm on Wednesday 13th September at Parkwood School. It would be great to see local residents there. Details can be obtained at
http://www.hackney.gov.uk/index.htm/l-mayor-cabinet-councillors/w-commitee-reports.htm
There is also the possibility a special meeting in October to discuss the outcome of the consultation on parking.
Crime and Community Safety
We continue to work to improve conditions on Blackstock Road. To this end we have organised a meeting of the Council’s Neighbourhoods and Regeneration Directorate, whose responsibilities include environment and community safety, and FinFuture on 14th September.
Both local and specialist police attended a meeting with Kings Crescent estate representatives on 23rd August. This led to the innovative use of new powers as detailed below.
The next Community Advisory Panel for the ward’s police team is on Wednesday 6th September. Residents who are interested can get details of future meetings on 02087212030.
Cycle Racks
We have arranged for cycle racks to be installed in front of the shops at the junction of Green Lanes and Brownswood Road. If you are aware of any further suitable locations, please let us know.
Full Council 26th July
We used the opportunity to ask questions on securing funding for Kings Crescent, better co-ordination of activities on Blackstock Road, and gambling policy.
Planning
Darren chaired the planning sub-committee when it decided on the controversial planning application for Dalston Lane South - the site of the old Dalston Theatre. The development is a mixed-use scheme of homes, retail units and a new library as well as a large public square which will sit between the development and the Dalston Interchange site. The application was given permission subject to conditions.
A number of complaints have been made regarding Darren’s role as chair as he works for CABE - the govt’s advisor on architecture, urban design and public space. The design review service of CABE did review the Dalston south scheme as a non-statutory consultee, and concluded that the design was of high quality and would be a welcome contribution to the development of Dalston. Darren played no part in reviewing the scheme, as he is a member of a different directorate at CABE, and had no prejudicial interest that would have precluded him from taking part in the planning committee’s decision.
Lakeside, Portland Rise and St Johns Court
A walkabout of all 3 estates to look at medium sized improvements works took place on Monday 17th July. Various items, including the possibility of creating a kids playground on Portland, will be followed up.
Amwell Court
Feryat will be attending the AGM of the TRA to be held on the 21st of this month. The whole of the Amwell Court has just had Decent Homes work completed, including new bathrooms and kitchens. Residents seem generally happy with the work and the time took to complete it, apart from minor delays with a few of the properties due to access issues.
Woodberry Down
Darren and Brian attended the Estate Development Committee (EDC) on 17th August. The EDC has not received its funding yet for this financial year and we agreed to write to the council to obtain written clarification what the EDC must submit to enable their funds to be released.
Hackney signed a development agreement with Berkley Homes on August 3rd for the “old school site” in Brownswood, which is the first site to be developed and will kick-start the regeneration project into life.
Darren will be presenting an introduction to the regeneration programme at this month’s Labour Party meeting. It is one of the largest of its kind in western Europe. 1,980 homes will be replaced by 4,300 new mixed-tenure homes. The regeneration of social housing is paid for by the income generated from building extra homes and selling them on the open market. The overall objective is to create a more mixed and balanced community, a “total living environment” which integrates community facilities, commercial redevelopment and housing within a more diverse community.
Licensing
We are campaigning against an application by the Spring Park Hotel for a sex encounter license - raising a petition and arranging to represent residents at the hearing, as requested by the TRA and other residents of Portland Rise. Some residents living close to the hotel are also circulating their own petition against the application. Many of those visited voiced great concern about the sex encounter application, as well as complaining about noise that comes from hotels in the area over the weekends and the parking problems caused by hotel users.
The new hackney gambling licensing policy is going through public consultation due to end on September 30th.
Kings Crescent
Regeneration plans took a major step forward this month as the residents approved the detailed refurbishment specifications. They will involve an almost complete refitting of flats on the blocks to be retained, to a high standard. They also approved a Residents Charter setting out the standards of management they expect from any landlord. Invitations To Tender were subsequently issued, and expressions of interest received from most of the main builders and RSLs.
There has been a severe ongoing problem with the empty parts of the estate – Codicote Terrace and Weston Court – being used for drug abuse and prostitution. To counter this an Anti Social Behaviour Closure Order was obtained and served on these areas last week. This means the police can now arrest anyone found abusing these properties for breach of the order instead of or in addition to any particular offences. The area is also due to be properly fenced off this week.
Road, street and lighting works
Details of planned works were circulated on 21st July. Ideas for further ones can be put forward at any time.
Surgeries
As a reminder, times and venues are -
Date: 1st Saturday of each month
Start: 11:00 am End: 12.30 pm
Venue: Amwell Court Community Hall
Address: Green Lanes, London N4
Date: 3rd Wednesday of each month
Start: 6.30pm End: 7.30pm
Venue: Kings Crescent Community Hall
Address: Off Green Lanes, London N4
Date: 1st Friday of each month
Start: 9.00am End: 10.00am
Venue: Robin Redmond Resource Centre
Address: 440 Seven Sisters Road Woodberry Down Estate London N4
Thames Water’s new ringmain
A new water main linking the reservoirs to the central London ringmain at New River Head (adjacent to Sadlers Wells Theatre) is being constructed over the next 10 years. It will run 50 metres deep, from the West Reservoir across Green Lanes, under the Filter Beds Estate, beneath Digby Crescent, under Kings Crescent and out beneath Mountgrove Road. There is predicted to be little effect on the surface other than construction traffic but this will be regular and prolonged, and in addition to all the other capital projects scheduled.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
29th June 2006
Last Thursday was a busy day. Spent the early part at Parkwood School chairing an interview panel for two new teachers. A couple of years ago we would have struggled to get enough applicants suitable for appointment but now we had 28, most of whom were shortlistable. Also interesting was the fact that most of them had not come into teaching thru the traditional routes but had had other careers first. We even had the proverbial merchant banker who decided it wasn’t rewarding enough!
I had hoped to get away in time for the official reopening of Manor House tube at 4pm, but we took ages making the decisions on whom to appoint. I did make a quick meeting with the Building Research Establishment on Kings Crescent Estate. They’re helping us to ensure the maximum possible amount of the materials created during demolition, are recycled. Then it was off to the Town Hall for a meeting.
One of my minor roles is as Vice-Chair of the Audit Committee – yes, every bit as exciting as it sounds. At it’s meeting on 29th June, among the many fascinating reports we had to consider, was a list of the council's assets. It started as you might expect with
24,292 dwellings
2 town halls
30 office blocks
43 primary schools
etc
and concluded with
21 items of civic regalia
1 sculpted javelin
1 anglo saxon long boat
1 reservoir
(Glad someone's keeping an eye on the reservoir. You know how hard it is to find one after you put it down somewhere.)
Anyway, in case it keeps you up at night wondering, our net worth is approx 2,489,987,000 pounds. Not too shabby!
Brian.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)