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27th May 2009Love Parks WeekPlease support Love Parks Week in London The Love Parks Week campaign is gaining momentum and, with two months to go before it begins, nearly 200 events are already registered on the website. This year we are asking as many people as possible to get into parks to join our campaign for continued investment and support for these valuable assets. For this reason, if you hold an event in the park between 25 July and 2 August and register it on the Love Parks Week website, you will be helping to send the message that parks are an essential part of every community.
22nd May 2009Southwark News reports that Fisher may yet have a futureThis week’s issue of Southwark News (Thursday 21st May 2009, page 3) reports that following the court’s decision to wind up the Fisher Athletic Football Club over an unpaid £230,000 HMRC bill an open meeting will be taking place to decide the future of the club. Rumours about a possible future for the club are unconfirmed but it is possible that an open meeting on Thursday May 28th at 7.30pm at Fisher Downside on Druid Street may have more information to offer.
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Thanks to Steve for both the photographs and the information below. |
BEFORE
AFTER
Albion Schools Bridge opening ceremony
Thanks to Steve Cornish for the photograph to the right which shows the opening ceremony of the Albion Bridge sculptures. The kids, who were closely invovled in the project, look delighted!
The floral theme was chosen by the schools for the latest bridge to receive a decorative overhead sculpture. The others can be seen over bridges along Watermans Walk.
Volunteer work at Stave Hill Ecological Park
Thanks to Kam Hong Leung for the following information about the "May Day Corporate Volunteers Event" that was attended by some 30 personnel from Ernst & Young (E&Y) on Friday, 1 May 2009. They completed some good projects including the construction of "Hay Sausages" which are built for weed control and the building of a new chalk bank in Globe Pond, which will help to control acidity levels which will help the local wildlife. Kam has added photo of the event on his Flickr site at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/16999050@N00/3497340683/ )
Rebeka from TRUE talking about Art in the Park
Kam has posted a video of Rebeka (Trust for Urban Ecology) talking about the Art in the Park project, showing some of the projects which were carried out by the kids on 14th March 2009 (lasts for a minute and a half), including insect boxes.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/16999050@N00/3465869375/
3rd May 2009
More re new water pipes in Russia Dock Woodland
Thanks to Steve Cornish for letting me know that the new pipes feeding the southern end of the waterways have been replaced with new and more efficient pipes and that water was flowing into the Downtown Pond really well on Friday. Rebeka from the Trust for Urban Ecology can control the water flow and left it on all night on Friday but it seems to have tripped a circuit breaker which feeds the pump. This shouldnt take long to fix. The water levels in Downtown Pond have risen by about four inches. If this had been delayed we would now be looking at a virtually dried up pond by now.
Update re Green Flag Status
The judging for the Green Flag status for the Russia Dock Woodland is in around two weeks time. Steve will keep me updated and I will update this page when I have some more information.
Albion Schools Bridge sculpture opened
Thanks to Steve for letting me know that they opened the Albion School bridge sculpture on Friday. All the children were there with their teachers. This is the furthest bridge past Globe Pond and around the pathway. The theme preferred by the children was.flowers, so this is the theme of the new bridge. Photos will be forthcoming.
30th April 2009
Animal sculptures outside Surrey Docks Farm
Anyone who shares my affection for the animal sculptures which used to sit outside the Surrey Docks Farm entrance to the Thames Path will be glad to know that their removal has been done to ensure the ongoing safety of these sculptures following the theft of one of them. The owl has been stolen, probably for the scrap value of the metal.
The others will be re-sited within the Surrey Docks Farm itself, where they will be a delightful addition to the farm, can be enjoyed by all the farm visitors and will be completely secure.
The re-siting has been done in consultation and agreement with all those impacted by the removal of the sculptures, in particular the residents whose homes overlook them.
14th April 2009
New fresh water supply to Downtown Ponds
Thanks to Steve for the following information:
Hello All,
I am pleased to announce that new pipe work supplying fresh underground water to the southern end of Russia Dock Woodlands has been agreed.
We have met on site with Paul Highman (head of parks) and also Jim Broadrib ( southwark councils works dept manager) on several occasions over the last month or so. It was clear that the 25 year old corrugated pipe work feeding this end of the waterway system had seen better days. We were constantly 'rodding' the pipe work to try to get some flow into this very important wildlife area. The problem was that the tree roots were wrapping around the perforated pipe work and crushing it. This pipe work was also corrugated which meant that sediment was building up at certain low points on the system when the wind turbine pumps were off. The new pipe work will be solid but flexible (polypipe) which will allow for any subsidence, and also prevent sediment build up.
We met with jim and his sub contractors on site last week to explain the problem and how to resolve it. We are pleased to announce that the price has been accepted and the contractors will start work, probably this monday coming.
It is worth noting that had this vital water supply to the downtown pond been allowed to dry up. We would have soon been in a situation where the biggest link in the eco chain would have been broken. The small fish and invertebrates would have been lost, leading to the loss of the Kingfisher, Heron and other wildlife.
Many people would have also noticed the new picnic benches that have been located in the woodlands around the green open space. This brings the total amount to six, with one bench being specially designed to accommodate wheel chair access. They are already being well used by the general public.
Many thanks to Paul Highman - Jim Broadrib and his team for acting so quickly.
Regards
Steve F.O.R.D.W.
13th April 2009
Volunteers build Wildlife City at Steve Hill Ecological Park
Thanks to Kam Hong Leung for letting me know that he has posted a photograph taken by his wife Beatrice of the newly created "Wildlife City" outside the Stave Hill Ecological Park Hut & Visitors Centre on his Flickr site. The photos was taken during the Easter Stave Hill Volunteers Day on Holy Saturday, 11 April 2009. He has also posted the original artist’s impression of the feature, provided by Ben Dewhurst.
1) Trust for Urban Ecology’s "Wildlife City" Exhibit at the Royal Horticultural Society Show, on 31st March and 1st April 2009 (Artist Impression):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/16999050@N00/3438236012/
2) Stave Hill Ecology Park, London SE16 - Easter Volunteers Day on 11 April 2009 - TRUE's "Wildlife City" : http://www.flickr.com/photos/16999050@N00/3438242896/
14th March 2009
Upcoming events at Stave Hill Ecological Park
Saturday 14th March - Stave Hill Saturday...wild flower planting. We'll also be hosting an Invisible Food Walk...food for free!...as well as a freecycle event, seed swapping, and info about other local groups and greenspaces.
Wednesday 25th March - Towering Habitats...a volunteer event to create our own Canary Wharf skyline of 2metre tall habitat towers beside SHED.
Saturday 11th April - Stave Hill Saturday...either help install SHED's new beech walls or learn basic survey skills.
Saturday 11th April - Kids@StaveHill...frogs and toads. Make a salt dough frog, follow the frog quiz trail, and help build a toad home.
Wednesday 15th April - Deadhedging for Wildlife....a volunteer event creating a wildlife friendly habitat beside our new path.
12th March 2009
The latest from Southwark News
There are a number of news items that have been reported by Southwark News that might be of interest to Rotherhithe residents.
Judicial review re Dowtown site on the cards?
Page 4 of Southwark News highlights that the third application for development on the Downtown site may face a judicial review. A local resident, in conjunction with the Downtown Defence Campaign, has instructed environmental lawyers to apply for a judicial review. As Southwark News (Chris Mullany) points out, the local community has become increasingly angry with the felling of mature trees which the developers, Barratt Homes, claims is “site preparation”. Mr Mullany also points out that the Southwark Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee will investigate the process leading upto the planning committee meeting.
Jubiliee Line colsure over Easter holiday
Most of the Jubilee Line is to be closed over the extended Easter weekend for network upgrades.
A-Z Guide of Southwark Council Services
A 24-page A5 brouchure is being delivered to Southwark residents and highlights over 200 services. Entitled “Your Guide to Local Health Services 2009” it is available to anyone in Southwark who has not received a copy on 020 7525 5000.
11th March 2009
Dog bins not emptied by Southwark Council
Thanks to Lorraine Smith for letting us know that yet again it has been necessary for her to get on to the council to have dogs bins emptied. As Lorraine says, surely there should be a timetable for these to be emptied by either Southwark or Quadron without others constantly having to remind the council. This could become a very serious health and safety issue as the weather is warming up.
It really should not be up to local residents to remind the council of their responsibilities.
4th March 2009
Burgess Park wins Boris's millions!
Southwark Council is delighted to inform you that Burgess Park has been chosen as the Mayor of London's Premier Park, and will receive a £2 million grant. Added to this will be the £4 million of match-funding secured from our enhanced partnership between the council and the New Deal for Communities, to make the total value of improvements to the park £6 million. The money will be spent on giving visitors to the park better access to nature by:
- creating a variety of different habitats
- removing redundant roads and pathways and making those that remain more user friendly
- improving the borders of the park and creating improved entrances
- giving the park a striking identity by putting in place new artwork.
In the other competition, where Londoners were encouraged to vote for the park that they wanted to see improved with a £400,000 GLA grant, Camberwell Green and Dickens Square missed out on a prize. However, Southwark Council wants to reassure residents of our commitment to the two unsuccessful parks and want to thank everyone who made the effort to vote and who showed support for Camberwell Green and Dickens Square.
Read the full Burgess Park story on the Southwark Council website
3rd March 2009
RE: Opportunity for involvement in Lavender Pond environmental project
Please see the email below for details of an opportunity to become involved in a local project at the Lavender Pond nature reserve:
We are going to be running an ongoing environmental improvement project at Lavender Pond in Rotherhithe over the coming year, as part of the Green Prints scheme, a SITA trust funded programme.
Lavender Pond is a Local Nature Reserve situated off Rotherhithe Street and can be found alongside the Pumphouse Museum.
The project will involve the rejuvenation of the publicly accessible area around Lavender Pond. Work will include replacing fencing and signage, planting shrubs and sowing wildflower meadows, relaying surfaces and putting in new benches. Some of the design for these features may also need to be completed and there are opportunities for people getting involved in all stages of the project from planning and consultation through to completion.
We are mainly looking to gain interest from people in the age bracket 16-25 in helping us. There would be no particular level of commitment required, with as much or as little help as people would be willing to give throughout the project, from a short session over half a day or a day to involvement on many occasions. At the moment, we are attempting to gauge the level of interest by getting an estimate of the numbers of people who might be interested in this at some stage.
Involvement would be by no means immediate. In fact, if people are interested we would probably arrange a visit or meeting at a later date to discuss things.
Do you think that there is anyone in your group who would be interested in getting involved, particularly 16-25 year olds?
Please contact us through this email address for further information or to express any interest.
Many Thanks
Lavender Pond Lakeside Project Team
Michael Turner
Volunteer Officer
Lavender Pond Local Nature Reserve
(c/o The Pumphouse)
Lavender Road
London
SE16 5DZ
Tel: 020 7237 9165
lavender-pond@btcv.org.uk
www.urbanecology.org.uk
1st March 2009
The latest from Southwark News
There are a number of news items that have been reported by Southwark News that might be of interest to Rotherhithe residents. Unfortunately their website has been down so I haven’t been able to add links, but if you check during the week the site will probably be updated with the full stories.
Simon Hughes calls for return of lido in Southwark Park
By Chris Mullany
The Southwark Park lido was closed 20 years ago but there is now a call for its reinstatement as part of the Canada Water Area Action Plan. He also proposes the development of the area around Albion Street as a hub for Scandinavian and Baltic communities, and has addressed concerns about the transport infrastructure and the suggestion of a new secondary school. Hopefully the article will become available shortly on the Southwark News website, but the print version will be in news agents until Wednesday.
More parkland under threat as part of the Canada Water redevelopment plans
By John Prendergast
Local residents have highlighted that an area behind Seven Islands Leisure Centre known as the “Fish Farm” could be turned into flats under the latest Canada Water redevelopment proposals. Kathryn Leven deserves congratulations for having put in objections before last week’s deadline and has been supported by other local residents. She says that it would not take much to tidy the land up and use it “for the good of the park” and maintain the sense of peace and quiet. Used as a dumping ground, it was once run a s a fish farm which local schools were able to visit.
We must protect our woodland and green spaces
John Beasley letter to Southwark News
Peckham resident John Beasley has written into the News to contrast the land where a Sainsbury store was erected in 1992 with what the area was like before it was built including King’s College sports ground which was destroyed so that the car park could be built. Over eight acres of green space and trees with Tree Preservation Orders on them were destroyed. The letter, published beneath a photograph of Steve Cornish actively protecting one of our Downtown trees from being felled, concludes ”It is vital to preserve all our remaining greens paces and wooded areas”.
Rotherhithe tunnel reopens tomorrow morning
By Anthony Phillips
Rotherhithe tunnel was closed for the weekend for upgrade works on Limehouse DLR station but will be re-opened on Monday at 5am, all being well.
Name that pig!
By Andrew Phillips
Surrey Docks farm has a new resident, a two year old pig which was donated to the farm and now needs a name. Further names may be needed as she is due to give birth! There is a competition to name the lady pig, and winners will win a day looking after her and getting to know her. Your suggested name can be sent to dockscityfarm@btconnect.com or by postcard to Surrey Docks Farm, South Wharf, Rotherhithe Street, Rotherhithe SE16 5ET. Add your name, age, address and phone number.
DDC News updates
See the Dowtown Defence Campaign News page for the latest updates
22nd February 2009
DDC News update
The Downtown Defence Campaign news page has been updated
New Book: Great Houses, Moats and Mills on the South Bank of the Thames
An Amazon alert has just informed me that the following book is now available for pre-order. I thought it might be of interest to other residents of the area. The price being quoted by different suppliers varies substantially so I would recommend that you shop around if you decide to pre-order it. Amazon and Oxbow books are both offering it for pre-order
Great Houses, Moats and Mills on the South Bank of the Thames: Medieval and Tudor Southwark and Rotherhithe
MoLAS Monograph 47, Museum of London Archaeology Service 2008 (Hardcover)
By Simon Blatherwick and R. Bluer
I’ve added more details on my blog at
http://russiadock.blogspot.com/2009/02/new-book-great-houses-moats-and-mills.html
21st February 2009
The latest from Southwark News
Further Downtown Protests
http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/00,news,14292,185,00.htm
It is good to see that Southwark News have covered the Downtown Defence Campaign’s continuing work to prevent the destruction of mature trees by staging protests under the trees that were in the process of being prepared for felling. The article, on page 13, is a companied by a huge photograph showing Steve Cornish with Paul Noblet and local parents and children at the site. The children are holding banners which spell out the word “UNITED”. A smaller photographs shows contractors erecting hoarding around the site.
Tree destruction in South Camberwell echoes Downtown situation
Thanks to Councillor Veronica Ward (Labour, South Camberwell Ward) for her letter to the Southwark News which highlights a similar situation which took place in South Camberwell recently. She says that many residents in South Camberwell will be feeling for residents local to the Downtown site, where trees have been chopped down before final planning conditions had been agreed. She describes how South Camberwell has lost two lovely wooded areas in similar circumstances, in once case ignoring Tree Preservation Orders and in the other case removing a woodland zone which divided residents from a busy railway station which they now overlook. She continues: “I call on Councillor Noblet, Southwark Executive Member for Regeneration, to review all woodland in the borough and look at how we can protect it before we lose more.”
Youngsters lend a hand in Rotherhithe
http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/00,news,14322,440,00.htm
There’s a nice full-page photo feature showing children from Peter Hills Primary School in Rotherhithe carrying out volunteer tasks at the Surrey Docks Farm, Rotherhithe Library, St Mary’s and Trinity churches.
Cleaner, Greener, Safer Campaign funds
The campaign to allow groups and individuals to apply for funds to make permanent physical improvements to the area will be open as from next Tuesday. The entire pot is £3.25,million, of which slices will be allocated for community improvement projects. Phone 020 7525 0864 for more details or visit the following website:
www.southwark.govt.uk/cleanergreenersafer
Hawkstone Estate asks residents to speak out against demolition plans
The Hawkstone Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA) has asked people to respond to the Hawksone and Canada Water Area Action Plan consultations by 5pm tomorrow if they are to ensure that they don’t find themselves with a situation that they don’t want. To complete the online questionnaire go to
https://ldfconsultation.southwark.gov.uk/inovem/consult.ti/system/login
East London Line extension to go ahead, but minus Surrey Canal Road station
http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/00,news,14291,185,00.htm
There’s a half page article, accompanied by CGI and map, discussing Phase II of the extension of the East London Line and the omission of the Surrey Canal Road station, which was part of the original proposal.
Southwark Archaeology Talk
The Southwark and Lambeth Archaeological Society will be holding a public lecture on recent archaeological and historical work on march 10th at the Housing Co-Op Hall at 106 the Cut. Refreshments start at 7p. Non-members will be charged £1.00.
Southwark Borough Commander retires
http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/00,news,14311,185,00.htm
Commander Tillyer is retiring and leaving Southwark police for the peace of the Lake District. Southwark Nes have given him a glowing send-off on page 29.
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17th February 2009
Downtown Defence Campaign News
The DDC News page has been updated with information from Paul Noblet about planning conditions.
Letter from Simon Hughes MP re Canada Water Area Action Plan
Simon Huges, the local MP for North Southwark and Bermondsey (Liberal Democrat) has sent around a letter to local residents asking for feedback from local residents about the CWAAP. I received mine this morning. He is asking for general response to teh CWAAP document itself, he requests that the online survey on his own website should be completed, and he asks a short number of questions to those without web access and who might take the time to drop him a note.
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16th February 2009
Report on Greenland Dock and Salter Road crime incidents
Thanks to Kam Hong Leung for circulating an e-mail to members of the local community which contained a number of other emails, all of which were sent to alert residents to a number of incidents that have taken place over the last week in the area. The following report summarizes some of the emails that were forwarded by Kam.
Barry Mason, Co-ordinator of Southwark Cyclists reported a regarding a mugging incident on the 14th February at Greenland Dock. At about 4pm he came across police taping off a new crime scene on the path alongside the western end of Greenland Dock. Police there said that a young woman, who had been on her own, had been attacked and group of young males stole from her. She had fallen and had hurt her head so badly and she had to be taken to hospital by ambulance. The police had apparently made several arrests. Barry Mason raises the issue that there is a proposal to shut off the thoroughfare at the Surrey Docks Watersports Centre, which will force pedestrians and cyclists into the lonely area on the wrong side of the big boat storage cage and onto Rope Street. This issue is still being discussed
David Frampton of Rainbow Quay Residents Committee has reported a number of incidents of rampant car related crimes over the weekend of the 14th and 15th February in Greenland Dock. Car windows were broken, presumably with the intention of stealing vehicle contents. Two cars were attacked in Howland Way and four cars (possibly more) were targeted in Victory Way.
Last weekend a local resident reported that there was a brick thrown off the bridge in Salter Road and it landed onto a moving ca, but fortunately hit the bonnet and not the windscreen. There was a family in the car, including two children. Apparently the the man got out of the car and gave chase to the youths but did not catch them and also reported it to the police, who failed to arrive. If the brick had hit the windscreen it could easily have caused a very serious accident. Please take extra care when approaching the bridge if you see any youths on it.
Another local resident reported that on 9th February they witnessed a gang of boys (between six to eight of them) smash the side windows of a van in Brunswick Quay, at around 7.30pm. The resident concerned phoned the police the group had disappeared. It was raining and they all had their hoods up but the age range appeared to be from around 10 years and two older boys at around age fourteen. It was only one of the older boys who was responsible for this mindless vandalism and the others stood at a distance watching. On February 10th the same resident saw that another car in the same road had had the back window smashed. It is not known if either of the victims has reported this to police.
Finally, Beverley Olamijulo of the Community Councils Team (Southwark Council) recently received a lengthy letter from a Rotherhithe resident who recently moved to the area in which she complained bitterly about groups of youths causing a nuisance outside Stanton House, 620 Rotherhithe Street. She has been subjected to verbal abuse on one occasion, during the icy conditions, was actually pushed over by one of the youths. The youths have also been setting off fireworks on the second level foyer and inside the bus shelter just outside. Police, Wardens and Surrey Docks Ward members have been informed about this matter.
I would just say, having read the above catalogue of youth crimes with some dismay, that it is of VITAL importance to phone the police if you are the victim of even a minor crime. The sheer number that are coming to our attention indicate an increasing problem and if the police are not made aware of the volume of incidents they will not prioritise the area. So please, even if it is a minor crime, ensure that you report any problems to the police. The Phoning for Help page on this site will give you links to Kam’s and other pages, where you will find all the contact details that you will need to report local crimes.
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15th February 2009
Annual Bird Box Day
The annual bird box building event was another great success this year.
One young girl was present at the Peter Hills school bridge sculpture project the day before (Friday), so she told her mum about the birdbox event and they had a great day. The mother and her daughter live locally.
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14th February 2009
Urgent Update on Hawkstone Triangle Demolition
Posted at the request of Steve Cornish, sent by Hawkestone TRA
Dear residents,
URGENT UPDATE ON HAWKSTONE TRIANGLE DEMOLITION, please spread the news. BRYDALE + ADDY HOUSE IN THE FRAME with RED LION BOYS CLUB also (Westfield, Harbord included)
We have finally got an 'official' reply about the "Hawkstone Mandate". The Council have been playing dirty tricks with us again! There is an "idea" feasibility paper published and project underway and the Council are spending £100,000+ on the project. "Ideas" being explored include:
DOING AWAY WITH HAWKSTONE ROAD (or part of it)
NEW ROAD THROUGH THE ESTATE, dividing it into two (old news)
PUTTING A NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL ON THE TRIANGLE (could be 4 stories high)
PUTTING A LEISURE CENTRE ON THE TRIANGLE (multiple stories high)
Rehousing residents elsewhere / back on the triangle (See "rehousing policy" disgrace at
http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/49jkh/hawkstone.html
While some "key groups" (para 17) should be consulted for this Hawkstone Triangle feasibility study we've heard nothing. ALSO IMPORTANT is that the "triangle" and area of possible demolition now includes BRYDALE HOUSE, ADDY HOUSE AND THE RED LION BOYS CLUB. Last summer Tim Cutt's boards on display had the pink thick line skirting around the primary school and it missed out Jeff Hook's property + Addy House: but on Map in file 40177 its all in. The lines are being redrawn as the CWAAP Options are presented, the goal posts are shifting.
Brydale and Addy residents (and the boys club) now need to say what they want JUST AS LOUDLY as Low Rise / JKH / Harbord & Westfield: the WHOLE triangle is in the frame.
Newsletter to follow next week & possibly urgent T&RA meeting. If you have already written in about the CWAAP consultation you can write in again. If you have said nothing so far, you have got to 20th Feb at 5pm.
The feasibility paper makes it very clear that it is not benefitting local residents and Rotherhithe people that is at the heart of the Council's regen plans - it is making as much cash as possible for the "pot" to bail out the Investment funding / waste gap.
YOUR T&RA WILL KEEP FIGHTING FOR HAWKSTONE with the help of our friends and contacts. Please support your T&RA, come to meetings + have your say. Lobby your local Councillors.
SEE the MAP at: http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/49jkh/hawkstone.html
bottom right of page
and attached to this
LINKS TO CWAAP and consultation
http://www.southwark.gov.uk/YourServices/planningandbuildingcontrol/planningpolicy/localdevelopmentframework/canadawaterareaactionplan.html
From www.southwark.gov.uk
<<<Formal consultation will begin January 9 2009 and continue until February 20 2009.
How to comment on the Issues and Options report
We welcome your views and you can get your comments to us via either of the following methods:
Fill in our online questionnaire. If you have not already registered please take the time to go through the quick and easy registration process. Once registered we will be able to contact you directly regarding your comment and about future consultations.
This questionnaire can be filled in and saved as a file on your computer, and can be then emailed to us. You can also download the questionnaire, print it and send it to by post or fax to:
Freepost SE1919/14
Planning Policy
Chiltern House
Portland Street
London SE17 2ES
Fax: 0207 525 5561
The documents are also available to view at the Town Hall, Chiltern House, and all area housing offices, libraries (apart from John Harvard library which is closed for refurbishment) and one stop shops in the borough. You can request paper copies from the Planning Policy team.
All comments must be received by 5pm on February 20 2009. If you make a representation on the document we will contact you regarding this. We will also inform you when Canada Water AAP is at the preffered option stage, is submitted to the Secretary of State for independent examination and when it is adopted.
Bermondsey And Rorhterhithe Green Enthusiasts Information Card
Open green spaces are now under immense pressure from development projects, so joining forces and encouraging others to form their own “friends of” groups is the way forward. The BARGEs group has been meeting on a regular basis now for quite a few months, to support communal areas of open green space locally. A number of well established groups have become members. All the links in the document can be activated by clicking on them. There is also a map of all the local green spaces in the document.
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13th February 2009
News Items from Southwark News
Only the first of these has a web link at the moment., but all are available in the current print edition of the newspaper will which be available until next Wednesday.
- FURIOUS ROTHERHITHE residents took direct action against developers on Wednesday morning, hurling themselves in the path of mature trees earmarked for felling, in a desperate bid to halt the destruction.
The angry scenes took place in a week of extraordinary twists, with Downtown residents, local ward councillors - and even Southwark Council's Executive Member for Regeneration, Paul Noblet - discovering that a High Court appeal lodged by the authority against developer Barratt Homes' original application had been successful.
Campaigners were stunned to learn that the appeal had been won back in August 2008, and insist they were not informed by council officers. Just over two months later, the developers' third attempt to secure permission was considered by the council's planning committee and given approval.
As residents celebrated the High Court revelation, they stepped out of their doors on Tuesday to find mature trees being felled on the Downtown site by contractors for Barratt, on the back of the subsequent secured approval. A spokesperson for Barratt told the 'News' that they were "not in breach of planning regulations" and were "acting legally in accordance with a licence granted by Southwark Council and... clearing tress and undergrowth in readiness for construction."
- Ambitious plans to build a bridge between Rotherhithe and Canary Whar for pedestrians and cyclists has been given the cold shoulder by London Mayor Boris Johnson. . . . The Mayor is said to have dropped the proposal because of lack of funding.
- London mayor Boris Johnson is set to give the East London Line extension through the heart of Southwark the go ahead today, providing thousands of residents with quick access the underground.
- One resident at Surrey Docks Farm celebrated a very special birthday last week - Tammy the donkey turned 30. The old nag is the oldest resident on the farm and is the last surviving animal from the previous farm in Greenland Dock.
Lumber Whakcked - Local residents celebrate “unknown” High Court victory but new plan allows destruction of woodland
Historic church built by dockers needs the help of the local community once again
An army of dockers and shipbuilders sweated blood and tears to rebuild Rotherhithe’s grade two listed St Mary’s Church. Now the parish priest is calling on locals once more to restore it to its former glory. Father Mark Nicholls of St. Mary’s is looking for local workmen and fundraisers t to help repair the historic building.
Pedestrian bridge plans dropped by Mayor of London
East London Line to get go-ahead
Surrey Dock Farm resident, Tammy the Donkey, turns 30
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12th February 2009
Boris pulls plug on Dockland bridge
Docklands News 24 has reported that the bridge planned to provide a link between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf has been canceled by London mayor Boris Johnson. The bridge was planned to provide a pedestrian and cycle link between the two areas.
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11th February 2009
Barratt Homes inflict ongoing damage to Downtown site.
Just when you think that it was safe to celebrate, Steve Cornish bears more bad tidings re the activities of Barratt Homes.
See the Downtown Defence Campaign News page.
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9th February 2009
BREAKING NEWS
HIGH COURT QUASHES GOVERNMENT PLANNING DECISION AS “INADEQUATE AND PREJUDICIAL”
PRESS RELEASE – IMMEDIATE
Issued on behalf of the Downtown Defence Campaign (DDC), Rotherhithe, London SE16 on
9th February 2009
See the Downtown Defence Campaign News page
Snow and ice in the Russia Dock Woodland and Stave Hill Ecological Park
There have been some wonderful photographs of the Russia Dock Woodland and Stave Hill Ecological Park by local residents. The photo on the left, showing a rather brave fox crossing the ice, was taken by Steve Cornish, but see the links below for other lovely snowy photographs by Mke Scott, Kam Hong Leung, Beatrice Leung and Les Butler.
Dr Plokta’s Flickr photos of the area in the snow
Photograph of snow on the green by Beatrice Leung
Photograph of Waterman’s Walk by Kam Hong Leung
Photographs of Stave Hill Ecological Park by Les Butler
Surrey Docks MOBILE Farm - progess!
Thanks to John Willis, Secretary, Surrey Docks Farm Provident Society Ltd. for information about the progress they have made since public votes helped the Farm to win an injection of cash from "Peoples' Millions". This is where the money has gone. The purpose-built body will be put onto this chassis and they hope to take delivery in the 1st week in March. This is all thanks to those who voted and will be put to immediate use and taken out into the community.
John will keep members informed about their progress and it's hoped to hold an open day so that visitors can come and see how the Mobile Farm has been equipped with help form the Worshipful Company of Farmers and others.
Derek Jacobi and Miriam Margolyes unveil blue plaque at Rotherhithe film studios
It is lovely to see that the work of the Rotherhithe Picture Research Library and Sands Film studios has been recognized with the award of a blue plaque, which was unveiled by Derek Jacobi and Miriam Margolyes in January. The library and studio have been on the Grice’s Granary site for over 30 years now.
This was particularly poignant for me because my Mum, who died just before Christmas, went to school in Oxford with Miriam Margolyes and remembered, very vividly, how much she always wanted to act. I knew her name before I ever saw her acting. I also grew up with I Claudius. Good memories.
Collapse of Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf Thames Bridge Project?
Thanks to Kam Hong Leung for the following information.
A Southwark Council's Officer told participants of the "Transport Workshop" at the Canada Water Area Actions Plan (CWAAP) Public Meeting on 4 February 2009 that the Mayor of London has announced that Transport for London (TfL) will not be funding the Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf Thames Bridge Project. Cllr. Paul Noblet and Simon Hughes MP have separately stated at last night's meeting that they will try see how they may help rescue this project. Some background information has been posted by Kam on the RCSF Public Information Blog and can be accessed via the web link :
http://rotherhithe.spaces.live.com/blog/cns!FC4C191A8F51F272!380.entry
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30th January 2009
Canada Water Area Action Plan Meeting 4th February 2009
At the Alfred Salter School, Quebec Way, Rotherhithe, at 7pm. This is your chance to take a look at the options that are proposed and to ask questions. Spread the word to as many people as possible.
The C.W.A.A.P. meeting on the 4th February is expected to include officers form planning and regeneration will be making a full presentation of the CWAAP, including the various options. There will be an opportunity to ask questions.
The 'Canada Water Area Action Plan' is a massive new consultative document produced by Southwark Council which shows the vision (options) for the future of Rotherhithe. Transport & Infrastructure, Leisure Facilities, G.P. Provision ( new polyclinics?), New Schools Locations, Business and Retail, Open Green Spaces, Youth Provision, and Thousands of more flats. Please note that this is not the Canada Water Master plan that was chosen by the general public three years ago. It is much bigger than that.
Apparently some items which appear on the minutes from the last meeting and some other items will be deferred to next meeting but written responses are expected to be provided.
Cllr Columba Blango says that the idea is to allow enough time to discuss the CWAAP properly as the public would expect.
Fromgomore development plans for the Leisure Park
Thanks to Mark Del Canto of the Brunswick Quay Residents Association (BQRA) for copying me on an email that says that he recently learned, by chance, that Frogmore recently made a new presentation regarding their plans for the Leisure Park. These plans include 500 apartments and houses, (with 100 parking spaces), plus a 16 floor tower block is Nobody from Brunswick Quay attended this meeting. Mark says that he supposes that the reason for the absence of Brunswick Quay at the presentation, was, as in his case, that they were not informed by Frogmore. This has happened before. If no residents attend, there are no objections and Frogmore can tell the Southwark Council that all is well, and that here are no objections.
The next Frogmore presentation will take place also at Alfred Salter School on Monday 23 February 2009 at 6.30pm. As with the CCWAAP meeting, the outcome will impact the entire area of Rotherhithe so it is in all our interests to attend.
Surrey Docks Farm Update
Thanks to John Wills for the information that the farm has introduced a new enterprise:
The Farm is introducing a new Gardening Club which we hope will reach out into the Community. If you would like to work alongside others and grow your own flowers, fruit & vegetables then this could be just the thing for you. No expertise needed, just enthusiasm. It's hoped to run the Club every Friday under the guidance of Alex, one of our volunteers, but this does not mean you can't visit on other days to see how things are and maybe pull up the odd weed if necessary. This club will very much be run by its members and the framework of this will be talked about at the initial meeting, which is due to take place at the Farm this Saturday 31st at 2.00pm.
Please come along and be a founder member. We only have so much ground that can be cultivated and we anticipate this will be popular.
John Wills
Secretary, Surrey Docks Farm Provident Society Ltd
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28th January 2009
News re the Trust for Urban Ecology
Thanks to Steve Cornish for forwarding this to me, which I wouldn’t have seen otherwise:
2009.....and it looks to be an eventful and exciting year at Stave Hill. We've got several events in the calender, with more to come. The park is breaking out of it's winter grey and brown, with daffodil spikes appearing, and cowslip rosettes showing in the meadows. Today we saw our first butterfly of the year, a bright and shiny Red Admiral. Fantastic!!
Upcoming events...
Wednesday 18th & Thursday 19th - Buzz for Bees, beehive building & planter construction. Places limited, so please email me asap if you are attending. It's 10am - 4pm at SHED.
Saturday 14th February - Valentines Volunteers, birdboxing event. Building, repairing, cleaning and installing birdboxes in Russia Dock Woodland. There will also be a guided bird walk.
Saturday 14th February - Kids@StaveHill, creating more fabulous art for the park. This month, valentines cards, twig people, and decorating birdboxes.
Wednesday 11th March - Meadows, Bees, & Butterflies...a volunteer event to plant up the Stave Hill meadows with bee & butterfly nectar plants. Making the park ever more beautiful!
Saturday 14th March - Stave Hill Saturday...wild flower planting. We'll also be hosting an Invisible Food Walk...food for free!...as well as a freecycle event, seed swapping, and info about other local groups and greenspaces.
Wednesday 25th March - Towering Habitats...a volunteer event to create our own Canary Wharf skyline of 2metre tall habitat towers beside SHED.
Saturday 11th April - Stave Hill Saturday...either help install SHED's new beech walls or learn basic survey skills.
Saturday 11th April - Kids@StaveHill...frogs and toads. Make a salt dough frog, follow the frog quiz trail, and help build a toad home.
Wednesday 15th April - Deadhedging for Wildlife....a volunteer event creating a wildlife friendly habitat beside our new path.
Other news.....this is the year of the big SHED push!! There's been lots of typing up of method statements, and eyestraining scrutiny of the building regulations. Over the next six months, our focus will be SHED. We want the building to be the best it can be, and be able to reveal this amazing volunteer achievement to the general public. This has meant delays, as we've set our standards rather high, but it will all be worth it when we cut that ribbon in front of those doors!
Stave Hill has also joined up with BARGEs, Bermondsey & Rotherhithe Green Enthusiasts, a forum of local groups and individuals aiming to raise awareness of local green spaces, share knowledge and resources, hold events, and develop and encourage practical involvement in community green spots. Have a look at their website for further info: www.BARGES.me.uk ., and keep an eye out for their postcard Green Space map, which has lots of useful info. We'll be running several events this year with BARGEs member groups.
Thanks to the efforts of our wonderful volunteers, the park has come through the winter in great condition. Some rather lovely new hedges have appeared, and we're currently working away on the willow coppicing....lots of violet plants beginning to appear.
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27th January 2009
Derek Jacobi to unveil blue plaque at famous Rotherhithe Picture Research Library and film studio
Renowned English actors Miriam Margolyes and Derek Jacobi (pictured) will unveil a Southwark Blue Plaque at the Rotherhithe Picture Research Library and Sands Films Studio on Friday.
Opened in 1976, the library and film studio in St Marychurch Street, Rotherhithe, have become an internationally recognised period costume house, studio location and research resource.
Manager Oliver Stockman said the library and studio have been involved with many famous productions.
“We are delighted to receive this recognition from Southwark Council’s Blue Plaque scheme," he said.
See the above link for more.
DRMM beats five to win Brunel Museum
bd online (by Clive Walker)
The winning proposal includes creating better public areas around the Rotherhithe museum and safe public access to a 15m diameter vent shaft and former stairwell — closed since 1865 — which leads to Brunel’s Thames Tunnel.
The tunnel, running between Rotherhithe and Wapping, is currently being upgraded as part of the East London Line extension.
Part of dRMM’s solution is a suspended mobile platform allowing public access to all parts of the museum — old and new.
Explaining the scheme’s rationale, practice director Alex de Rijke said: “DRMM’s proposal consists of several ambitious site-specific responses, inspired by the Brunel legacy of inventive lateral design.”
Brunel Museum competition judges included museum trustee and CZWG director Piers Gough, museum director Robert Hulse, Brunel Trust engineer Bryn Bird and treasurer Molly Lowell.
See the above page for more details.
Tower Bridge closure in March
Local residents might like to know that Tower Bridge will be closing in March this year and then again in 2010 for repainting, but that Congestion Charge will be eased in other areas to compensate. The following article appears on the London SE1 website:
Work began last autumn on a 3-year, £4 million repainting programme for the landmark river crossing which aims to have the bridge looking its best for the 2012 London Olympics.
"The closure of Tower Bridge for two weeks this year and for three months in 2010 has greatly worried many people who use the bridge, often on a daily basis," says North Southwark and Bermondsey MP Simon Hughes.
"Tower Bridge is not in the Congestion Charge zone. However, while the bridge is closed many drivers would have had to go over London Bridge and pay the Congestion Charge or go through Rotherhithe Tunnel which already often has serious congestion.
"I am delighted that Transport for London has now agreed to my campaign for a Congestion Charge exempt route over London Bridge while Tower Bridge is closed."
See the above page for the full story.
Simplicity wins UKTV Food’s London Food Hero 2008
With a menu that changes daily and uses produce from the Surrey Dock Farm Simplicity offers straight forward food in a comfortable environment at Tunnel Road in Rotherhithe.
Good luck to them for 2009
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January 22nd 2009, Thursday
Southwark News
Canada Water Consultative Forum
Patrick Horan, Disability Corner (page 22):
THIS WEEK I will be talking about the Canada Water Consultative Forum, whose lively meetings I have been attending since September 2008.
While I do not actually live in the Canada Water area itself I have a keen interest, as I use it for shopping, entertainment, leisure and a vital transport link. The Canada Water Area Action Plan or AAP is a very important document which sets out how the area will look in ten years’ time. Consultation began on January 9 and ends February 20 2009 and is part of the Southwark Council wider regeneration of London Bridge, Elephant & Castle, Aylesbury, and Peckham. It encompasses two wards, the Rotherhithe and Surrey Docks wards. Both of these wards at the present time are under Liberal Democrat control. If you live in any of these two wards, it's very important that you read the documents. If you have access to online facilities just go to www.southwark.gov.uk/canadawateraap or write to Freepost SE1919/14 Planning Policy Chiltern House Portland Street London SE17 2ES or email planningpolicy@southwark.gov.uk A copy is available at all libraries in the borough.
It's no use complaining in the future about the end result of this AAP - you have your chance now to read the AAP and fill in the accompanying questionnaire and thereby influence the outcome. In a nutshell there are two options A or B.
Who’s your local councillor?
A useful map was published in the 22nd January edition of Southwark New showing how the Southwark wards are divided up and which councillors belong to each. Unfortunately I cannot find it online, although it may yet appear.
No forced closures of GPs says health boss
In this issue David Yuill follows up on a previous report, to the effect that surgeries in Southwark will not be forced to close as part of Southwark NHS plans to create four “super-centres”
GP SURGERIES across the borough will not be forced to close as part of NHS Southwark's plans to base health care services in four super-centres.
The pledge has been made by health bosses behind the 'Transforming Southwark's NHS' report revealed in the ‘News’ last week.
The report contained plans for four ‘super centres;’ around the borough, which would house GPs, as well as other services usually found in hospitals.
"It's a choice of 'and' rather than 'either, or'." said Jane Fryer, NHS Southwark's Medical director, "It's not about closing down practices at all."
But Fryer, also the Chair of Southwark's Health Partnership Board, admitted that the smaller practices might go under unless they modernised and competed with the new super health centre model.
Dr Fryer added: "We think that the very small practices will not be sustainable in the future. We will be working with them in a new federated way."
See the above page for the full story.
Canada Water Plans
Gavriel Hollander has reported on the latest plans for the Canada Water area
ONE OF the largest developers in the Canada Water regeneration scheme has submitted planning applications for two key sites.
Conrad Phoenix's proposals for the Decathlon site (Site C) and What Retail site (Site E) were submitted following a series of public meetings.
Southwark Council will now carry out consultation on the proposals, which would see the construction of an expanded Decathlon alongside smaller shops and restaurants on one site. The other site would involve 180 new homes, a hotel and a new health clinic.
Meanwhile, it has been confirmed the next Rotherhithe Community Council on February 4 will be dedicated to the Canada Water Area Action Plan.
See the above page for more, with a computerized impression of what the new buildings might look like.
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19th January 2009
Russia Dock Woodland water problems
There is a plan for a meeting later this week to discuss how to overcome the water supply problem to the southern end of the woodlands. This is becoming increasingly important because if there is a dry spell this spring we will have a major problem on our hands.
The first priority is to identify where the problems actually life. For example, inferior existing pipework may be the root of the problem.
More re Barratt Homes questionable activities on Downtown site
See the Downtown Defence News page.
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11th January 2009
Author’s historic docks exploration
The most recent issue of The Docklands has published a short review of Geoff Marshall’s London’s Docklands, An Illustrated Guide. As well as the areas north of the river it covers Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, consists of a set of walking tours and encompasses the history of the area.
More re Barratt Homes activities on Downtown site
See the Downtown Defence News page.
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10th January 2009
More re Barratt Homes work at the Downtown Site
See the Downtown Defence News page.
Canada Water Consultative Forum, Monday 12th January 2009
A update on all Canada Water sites will be given on Monday 12th January 2009 at Alfred Salter Primary School, Quebenc Way, Rotherhithe SE16. The guest speaker is Andrew Boag, Service Change Advocate (S.E. London) with Transport for London. www.canadawater.org
Southwark News roundup
I’ve been a way for a few weeks again due to family illness, so this is a round up of three separate issues of the main news stories relevant to Rotherhithe in Southwark News. The issues date to December 18th 2008, January 2 2009 and January 8th 2009.
Canada Water defines property slump: Prices in a new Canada Water development have risen by two per cent, defying the capital’s trend of falling house prices. The new Maple Quays development, in Canada Water, is baffling the experts (Madeleine Lindh, January 8th 2009).
Farming land, spas, temples and the Dutch: A farmer chewing on a straw of hay, ploughing his meadows as bullocks graze nearby. Not a scene you’d associate with Bermondsey, but step back 700 years and that’s probably what you’d find. (Book review of London: The Illustrated History by John Prendergast, January 8th 2009, no web address yet available).
Seasonal Shrubs: The weather remained cold throughout most of December, with temperatures below the seasonal average.
Frozen Rotherhithe: Pluging temperatures have provides some icy spectacles for Southwark residents (January 8th 2009)
Second calf born just before Xmas at Surrey Docks Farm: Surrey Docks Farm were celebrating yet another arrival just days before Christmas, as a second calf in two weeks was born to one of their cows (January 2nd 2009).
Council “doing well but failing in some areas”: Southwark Council received a pat on the back and a kick in the teeth in the same independent assessment released this week (David Yuill, December 18th 2008)
Council defends publicity spend: Council leader Nick Stanton has defended Southwark’s “outrageous” payments for publicity after it was claimed the borough was the capital’s biggest spender” (David Yuill, 18th December 2008)
Winter Plants: As December progresses temperatures have edged lower (especially at night) giving the weather a seasonal flavour. bright cold days with sunshine are ideal for working in the garden (Jackie Power, December 18th 2008).
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9th January 2008
Barratt Homes Contractors on Downtown Site
See the Downtown Defence News page.
Southwark Environment Forum update
SOUTHWARK ENVIRONMENT FORUM important update – please see questionnaire attached.
Dear SEF
(Apologies if you have already received this but it seems most people haven't - so I'm resending)
As most of you will know, changes in the way the Council works and new duties around climate change mean that the Council needs to reduce its administrative support to SEF.
This provides member organisations with an exciting opportunity to revitalise SEF and make it more relevant - both to your organisations and the new grassroots groups springing up across the borough. At the SEF meeting in November, we discussed possible ways forward. The attached document summarises this discussion and includes a brief questionnaire.
Please can you take this back to your groups and complete it on their behalf - and then email the relevant part back to me by Friday 13th February.
Following this, there will be one final Council-organised SEF meeting (proposed date Thursday 5th March 6-8pm in Peckham Library) to discuss the outcome and handover. Please let me know asap if you will not be able to make this date and would like us to consider an alternative.
In the meantime, have a lovely Christmas and new year
Best wishes
Naomi
Naomi Baker
Sustainability Coordinator
London Borough of Southwark
Manor Place Depot, 30-34 Penrose Street
London, SE17 3DW
naomi.baker@southwark.gov.uk, 020 7525 0700
BARGES website
The BARGES team are working on their website, which can be found on the temporary URL:
http://www.bargesmeuk.moonfruit.com/
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