Lib Dems step up campaign against ticket office closures 

Lib Dem Farooq Qureshi has stepped up his campaign against Boris Johnson’s ticket office closures following confirmation that all four tube stations in the borough will be affected. 

In total Waltham Forest will lose nearly 60 hours of cover a week. The Mayor’s plan will hit late evening cover especially hard.

 ·         Blackhorse Road ticket office will shut at 6pm instead of 10pm on Saturdays

·         Walthamstow will close at 9.30pm instead of 11.30pm on weekdays

·         Leyton ticket office will shut at 9.30 pm instead of 10.30 pm on weekdays

·         Leytonstone will close at 8.45 pm instead of 11 pm on Sundays. 

Cllr Qureshi, who is parliamentary candidate for Leyton and Wanstead, said: “Waltham Forest has been hit hard by the Conservative Mayor’s broken promise. He said he would keep ticket offices open – but now travellers will face deserted ticket offices in the evenings just when the demand for security is greatest. That’s why I’ve launched a petition and am asking for people’s experiences. I want as many people as possible to show their concern.” 

Farooq Qureshi and the Liberal Democrat team have launched a petition against the closures. Passengers can sign online at www.ourcampaign.org.uk/xxx

Road resurfacing works will shortly be starting in Chingford Mount Road E4 between Larkswood Road E4 and Westward Rd E4. 

This work is planned to take over the weekends of 20^th & 21^st and 27^th & 28^th March 2010, this will take place between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm. Traffic will be controlled using traffic lights under single alternate traffic control. Local side roads at the junctions will also be closed. Whilst these closures are in operation traffic will be diverted using alternative routes. Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.  Initially the old road surface will be removed over the first weekend and a base course layer will be laid, during the week any ironwork will be replaced or raised as necessary and the finished wearing course and road markings will be laid on the following weekend.   

 To enable this work to be carried out it is essential that these sections of road are kept clear of parked vehicles. No parking signs and cones will be erected within the affected areas, if vehicles are found to be parked within these areas whilst the surfacing works are being carried out, then the Council’s parking enforcement contractor may be called to issue a penalty notice and if required have the vehicle relocated or impounded. (Contact details and charges are shown overleaf) A temporary traffic order covers this operation. 

I apologise for any inconvenience this may cause particularly with access, parking and deliveries, if you would like to discuss the road works further please do not hesitate to contact me either by e-mail at simon.barrett@walthamforest.gov.uk or on 020 8496 1017.  

The following collections will be undertaken on their normal scheduled days over the Easter Period: 

* Domestic Refuse Collection

* Trade Waste  Collections,

 * Kerbside sort  [black box] Recycling

 * Kerbside Co-mingling [blue sacks / blue top bins]

*Fortnightly Green  Garden Waste

* Estate Recycling  

The following services will not be available on Good Friday or Easter Monday: 

* Bulky / Special Collections

* Bin deliveries

* Box Deliveries

A provisional analysis is below.
Some check-counts are still to be completed however all the majorities mentioned are clear. 

EXTENSION AREA – Proposed New Scheme:

The response rate was over 45% of households (over 1100 returns). 
Overall about 75% of replies were opposed to a Resident Parking Scheme.
From every road consulted the majority of replies were opposed.

In accordance with Council Policy Officers cannot recommend a scheme in any part of this area.

LP ZONE (except Winns Avenue) – Hours of operation:

The response rate was also over 45% of households (over 450 returns).
There was very close to a 50/50 split between the two options (Mon-Sun 8-9 or Mon-Sat 8-6.30).  To the west (Diana Rd, Badlis Rd, WinnsTerrace, Bedford Rd there was a majority in favour of the existing hours(Mon-Sun 8-9).  The majority to the east (BromleyRd,Chingford Rd, Chandos Ave, Farnan Ave,Kenilworth Ave.) favour Mon-Sat 8-6.30.  Officers are looking at how to split the zones to accommodate this 

 Cllr Bob Belam, Cllr Bob Carey and Cllr John Macklin

An officer  from Highways just called me to give me the latest from TfL on the Beresford Rd site. 

Phil Davis from TfL has said that they are pricing up the remedial work at the moment and will advise as soon they have a date for commencement.

Watch this space

LONDON BOROUGH OF WALTHAM  FOREST  ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 -SECTION 14(1)THE   WALTHAM FOREST(BROOKSCROFT ROAD) (SUSPENSION OF PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2010

1. The Council of the London Borough of Waltham Forest HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that it intends making an Order to enable gas works to be carried out in a safe and efficient manner in
Chingford Road, the general effect of which would be, only at such times and to such extent as regulatory signs are displayed, to suspend the existing prohibition of traffic located in Brookscroft Road at its junction with Kitchener Road and Sturge Avenue.

This would allow for traffic to beredirected away from the location of the gas works.

2. Whilst the suspension referred to above remains in force,alternative routes for traffic would be indicated by traffic signs.3. The Order would come into operation on 2nd April 2010 and would be valid for a maximum period of 3 months or untilthe works are completed, whichever is the sooner.

Dated 8th March 2010

Mr K Valavan, Head of Highways and Infrastructure,Public Realm, Low Hall, Argall Avenue,London,

Cllr Bob Belam met Boris Johnson at a function on Saturday

After greeting Boris he firmly but politely asked Boris to ensure TfL replace the fence they removed from Beresford Roadand the A406

Latest email from TfL

I will see if I can do something more with the shrubs, no promises. 

I have highlighted the general upkeep of the area to our Highway Operations Team. I will ask them to feedback directly to you on the issue as this falls outside of the project I am dealing with. 

I will advise further when I am in a position to on the programme for the remedial work here, in the meantime please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any further assistance.

A resident of Knebworth Avenue got caught up in that “is it council of Ascham Homes” when he reported pot holes in the garage area behind Cecil House. 

On one of his ward walks Cllr Bob Carey noticed the state of the rose garden outside Clifford House, by the bus stop in Forest Road. 

It was strewn with litter, overgrown and unsightly. Cllr Carey complained to officers at Ascham Homes who are responsible for the cleansing.

 It has been agreed that this area will be cleaned every Friday.

There are also plans to replant it later this year. 

  Forecast 

This afternoon, officers from  Waltham Forest, and Transport for London (TfL) met with residents and Cllrs, Bob Carey and Bob Belam to discuss why TfL had removed fencing from the A406 and Beresford Road

Residents and councillors explained what had happened since the removal of the fence.

Children playing ball on the grass, vans crossing the grass to get to the Billet, and pupils from Rushcroft using it as a short cut to school.

Officers from TfL realised there is a safety issue, and have agreed to go away and draw up some options to replace the fence.

It was suggested that a six foot green chain fence is erected with additional planting of shrubs. Councillors also asked for a maintenance plan for the shrubs and litter picking of the area.

Officers of TfL will have plans by Friday and circulate them to councillors and WF officers next week.

We will let residents know about the plans through our Focus

All three members of the Chapel End Focus Team  Cllr Bob Carey, Cllr John Macklin  and Cllr Bob Belam met with residents over the weekend to listen to their views on the CPZ consultation being carried out in the ward.

Some of the encounters were somewhat interesting.

Residents were angry, suspicious, enquiring, opposing and supporting the proposals.

We as councillors are not trying to influence the outcome, that is down to residents.

This is not a council led consultation, it is resident led.

We are encouraging residents to complete the consultation document and return it to council officers

A resident complained about the lack of spending on Lloyd Park.

 £3.4 million  is about to be spent on the park as part of the successful lottery bid

In the meantime  Cllr Bob Belam  asked officers to investigate complaints of damage to the artificial surface and dangerous fixtures that the resident felt were exposed.

Officers response is below

I have arranged repairs for the torn safer surfacing under the swings.

The company (ARD) that undertakes the inspections and repairs of Green Space play areas have informed me that the metal fixings under the climbing frame referred to by Ms Steward are the fixings for a climbing net that has been removed for repair. ARD confirmed that they did tape up the fixings but think that the tape has been removed. They confirm that the net will be returned in the near future.

Residents have complained to the Focus Team  about the hire shop on the corner of Chingford Road  and Cazenove Road loading scaffolding as early as 6 am.

We have asked officers for advice on trading times.

We will let you know the outcome

At a sometimes heated meeting on Sunday, residents asked Cllr John Macklin  and  Cllr Bob Belam  to investigate the Yellow Zig Zag lines outside the now closed  Aveling Park School.

 We have asked officers advice on them remaining in situ

We will report back

The gas company carrying out works in Chingford Road have set up camp in Cazenove Road.  You can see from the photo how untidy it is and how inviting it is to fly-tippers.

 Cllr Bob Belam  has asked for officers to remove the matress and ask the gas company to take better care of their site.

Cllr John Macklin and Cllr Bob Belam spotted this vehicle and fridges on the street

We contacted council officers and the Chapel End Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Today the SNT informed us that the vehicle and fridges have been seized

           TfL meeting 2 pm Tuesday 9^th Feb 

As part of Transport for London’s (TfL) street de-cluttering program, they informed the council that they would remove fencing alongside the A406.

 Council officers objected to the scheme. TfL over ruled them. 

In the week ending 15^th January the fence was removed. 

Cllr Bob Belam received complaints from residents of Beresford Road concerned with the safety of children. 

Cllr Bob Belam contacted officers and has spent the last two weeks arranging a meeting with TfL 

In between, children have been seen playing on the grass area. 

White vans have been seen from Kitchener Road cutting across the grass to gain access to the Billet Roundabout. 

Chapel End councillors, council officers and representatives from TfL will meet on site at 2 pm Tuesday 9^th February. 

If you want to join us and put your views, please meet us at 2 pm 

Evening Standard (02.01.10)

· Waltham Forest reveals locations of its traffic cameras. A council is giving motorists a pleasant surprise - by tipping them off about the locations of its mobile traffic cameras. Waltham Forest is logging on its website the places where drivers are likely to be caught by CCTV vehicles. These are put in places that residents have complained about such as congestion or accident hotspots. The council says the aim of the initiative, believed to be the first in the country, is to improve traffic flow and safety by making drivers reduce their speed and be aware of troublespots. But it will also reduce the number of penalty charge notices issued. Drivers can be fined up to £120 for driving offences such as stopping in a box junction, driving in bus lanes or making banned turns. Waltham Forest council’s cabinet member for environment, Bob Belam, said: The main aim of our traffic enforcement team is to improve safety for all Waltham Forest road users. It is not about making money at the expense of motorists. We hope this will encourage people to drive more carefully, especially at the locations where we issue most of our penalty notices and help us to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.

If you are in the area for the consultation on residents parking the documents for a Residents Parking Scheme should have dropped through your letter box today.

Please complete the documents and encourage neighbours to do the same, and return the documents to the council in the free post envelope.

The more returns, the better the decision.

We as ward councillors have not tried to sway your opinion.

However there are those who would want you to vote according to the posters being put on street furniture. That is up to you.

If you want the scheme say yes

If you dont then say no

But please fill in the forms

Thanking you

Cllrs Bob Belam, Bob Carey and John Macklin

Chapel End Ward

Forecast

Very cold overnight, which will allow road surface temperatures to fall rapidly below freezing (minus 4 to 5), leading to the development of patchy frost /ice to form on wet and untreated surfaces. Risk of some snow showers affecting the area in the morning generally nil significant accumulations.

Action proposed for tonight

Gritters will be out this evening to treat the main and hilly routes as per Winter Maintenance Plan.

This van has been left in Beresford Road by its driver. It is taxed until the end of February.

Following a complaint by Cllr Bob Belam, officers of the council contacted the owner.

The owner has requested the council dispose of it.

Officers are now seeking quotes to dispose of the contents of the van, before disposing of the van itself.

Residents will no doubt be glad to see the back of it

Following emails and telephone calls, officers and Cllr Bob Belam will meet with Tfl.

Some lazy, driver has taken a short cut across the grassed area, to gain access to the A406. This is a very dangerous action to take.

This also highlights the need for urgency in getting the rails resored

I fully agree with the comments about Tfl on this site,Crap Cycling in Waltham Forest , you only have to look at the earlier post on my web site about them nicking the fence between Beresford Road and the A406.

How daft is that. 

I also agree that signs are a problem, but the quote below is unjust

“Bob needs to get out more and spend some quality time at his local labyrinth”.

Here is the photo I took earlier. 22nd June 09 to be precise.

Look Familiar

Waltham Forest Liberal Democrats have approved a plan to reduce key parking charges following their review of the Council’s parking strategy . 

For residents living in controlled parking zones (CPZ’s) visitor permits have been reduced by up to 14.5%, business permits reduced by 5% and for the fourth year in a row car park charges and on-street parking vouchers have been frozen. Refund and administration fees have also been slashed by up to 61%.  

Referring to Labour’s Council motion in December last year Lib Dem Cabinet Member for Environment Cllr Bob Belam said: “While others produce reports Liberal Democrats have again led the way by reducing key parking charges for the next financial year.”

“In the current economic climate it is right that we listen to our residents and businesses and help them where we can.”

• A 12 month business permit is reduced from £410 to £390

• Visitors permits will reduce from

•  
  • £21 to £18 for 5 hrs tickets
  • £18 to £16 for 2 hr tickets
  • £15 to £14 for 1 hr tickets 

• 15 Minute School permits stay at £15 for low emission vehicles

Picture courtesy of Waltham Forest Guardian” 

 Lib Dem Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Bob Belam announced a new scheme telling drivers exactly where CCTV enforcement vehicles will be deployed.The initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in the Country, aims to promote safer driving, reduce road accidents and lower the number of penalty charge notices issued to motorists for transgressions such as stopping in a box junction.Details of where the boroughs five CCTV enforcement vehicles will be are available for viewing on the Waltham Forest Council website at www.walthamforest.gov.uk CCTV vehicles are deployed in the identified areas because residents have complained about congestion, accidents and other issues in their vicinity, Cllr Bob Belam said: The main aim of our traffic enforcement team is to improve safety for all of Waltham Forest’s roads users. It is not about making money at the expense of motorists. “We hope this scheme will encourage people to drive more carefully, especially at the locations where we issue most of our penalty charge notices, and help us to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents. Waltham Forest Council’s CCTV vehicles are responsible for recording moving traffic violations, such as stopping in box junctions, driving in bus lanes and making banned turns. They are also used for parking enforcement purposes. The statutory penalty charge for a moving traffic violation is £120, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

 WHO NICKED THE FENCE IN BERESFORD ROAD/ A406 UPDATE

Mayor Boris Johnson puts residents at risk. His Transport For London department remove safety fences to declutter our streets.

Conservatives across London are the majority party who control what London does, they are to blame for this mad decision.

Residents of Beresford Road asked why the barriers between the A406 had been removed.

Cllr Bob Belam asked council officers to investigate.

Officer’s response

“Your concern has now been passed to TFL as this is under their responsibility. However our findings this morning shows that these were removed by TFL as part of their anti-clutter programme. During the process of the consultation our Engineers objected to the removal due to safety reasons however TFL have gone ahead and removed these barriers. As part of this consultation the London Road Safety Unit was happy with these proposals”.

“We will go back to TFL and raise our concerns again on this matter”.

Cllr Bob Belam will be meeting with council officers and TfL to have this lunacy reversed

These are the first images of TP Bennett’s controversial plans to redevelop Walthamstow Stadium, one of London’s last surviving greyhound tracks.Developers London & Quadrant (L&Q) and Yoo Capital plan to create almost 500 new homes on the site, around half of which will be affordable and aimed at key workers and people on a low wage.

A planning application for the £100 million project is expected to be lodged later in the year.The plans retain the stadium’s iconic 1932 art deco entrance arch, and include eight new residential blocks.The site’s listed kennel buildings could be used as a crèche.

Campaigners - including David Beckham, who worked at the stadium as a teenager - have condemned the loss of the race track, which closed in 2008 after 70 years.

But Chris Middleton, head of communications at L&Q said the redevelopment was vital to provide extra homes in a borough where some 2,000 people are currently homeless.“We are aiming to create a mixed development providing 490 new homes, 239 of which will be affordable,” he said.“The mix will include modern homes for outright sale, family sized houses, key worker homes and affordable property for rent and sale.“There is a huge demand and need for family housing in Waltham Forest and London as a whole.

“We want to develop a sustainable, mixed community on this site that provides high quality homes for local people while acknowledging the site’s fantastic heritage as a former greyhound track.”

However Councillor John Macklin, deputy leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “Whilst we’re acutely aware that Waltham Forest needs affordable houses it must not be at the expense of what little leisure facilities we have left.

“We have lost too many leisure facilities in this borough and despite promises no worthwhile developments have taken place“We must ensure Waltham Forest does not build a mass of housing with no amenities or heritage.

 Mr Middleton said that while he regretted the consternation the closure of the stadium had caused, providing new housing was “where the future of the site lies“.

David Beckham, who worked at the stadium collecting glasses as a teenager, has described its demise as “a real shame”. And former Tottenham and Manchester United football star and Chingford resident Teddy Sheringham has also added his voice to the campaign to save the track.

There are now only two dog tracks in London, at Romford and Wimbledon

Winter Weather Update Sat 16th January 2010 - Time 17.00 pm

Since the closure of the iconic dog track and Walthamstow landmark
Waltham Forest Liberal Democrats have supported the Save Our Stow plans
to retain and update the stadium to provide a modern greyhound-racing
venue whilst using part of the land around the site for development in
order to provide housing.  Liberal Democrats welcome this proposal which
is in line with the trend for mixed leisure and housing developments
used at many modern sports venues.

Waltham Forest Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council,
Cllr John Macklin, said:

“Whilst we’re acutely aware that Waltham Forest needs affordable houses
it must not be at the expense of what little lesuire facilities we have
left. We have lost too many leisure facilities in this borough and
despite promises no worthwhile developments have taken place.”

Cllr Macklin added: “I am unhappy that this development is being
proposed when I have worked so hard with the Save our Stow campaigners
to get London and Quadrant to talk to a group that want to develop the
site so that dog racing may return.”

“I had hoped that a suitable bid from those interested in opening this
site for dog racing could be bought forward and I want these proposals
delayed.”

Cllr Bob Belam also raised concerns saying: “We seem to be bringing
plans forward for more houses without thinking about our need for
infrastructure such as schools and medical facilities. Not far from the
Dog Track we are faced with the loss of another facility with plans to
close the Pool and Track with plans to build more houses”

Cllr John Macklin further concluded: “We must ensure Waltham Forest does
not build a mass of housing with no amenities or heritage. The success
of our leisure venues is an integral part of building a sustainable
community in Waltham Forest and ensuring that we are attractive to both
our residents and visitors. There is no long-term sustainability in
forcing residents out of the borough to spend their leisure time.”

Winter Weather Update Friday 15th January 2010 - Time 16.00 pm

Forecast

Dry this afternoon. Rain is expected early morning. There is a risk that this will initially fall onto sub-zero surfaces in north of the borough, leading to the formation of icy patches for a time before temperatures rise. Minimum temperature minus 1.  

Progress

So far current winter period Dec / Jan Gritters travelled the distance equivalent London to Islamabad / Mumbai. (over 4000 miles)

Action proposed for tonight

Action will be planned based on the 23.00 weather reports . Gritters will be on standby should the situation change.

Salt supplies

Currently there is sufficient reserves to continue to treat high priority roads and other bus routes (”resilience network”) for 2 days based on the TfL criteria.Although replacement salt supplies have been ordered, with the continuing high demand for supplies, London Councils in conjunction with TfL are now coordinating the availability of the borough’s salt supply, to ensure that each has a minimum of two days supply.

Residents of Beresford Road asked why the barriers between the A406 had been removed. Cllr Bob Belam asked council officers to investigate.

It would appear that a crew dressed in high visibility vests turned up and removed all the fencing between Beresford Road and the A406 slip road.

Officers have responded by carrying out an inspection, putting up temporary fencing and asking Transport for London to replace the fencing as it is their responsibility.

Liberal Democrats throughout London are launching their campaign, Better Stations, to tackle London’s neglected rail stations.

The campaign includes a five-point plan to improve our rail stations:

1. Ensure stations are staffed throughout the hours trains are running;
2. Keep all available station entrances open during these hours;
3. Deep-clean all stations and remove “grot-spots”;
4. Launch a website where you can easily report any problem with your station;
5. Invest in making stations fully accessible. 

Cllr Bob Carey said: “We simply shouldn’t tolerate reduced staffing hours or entrances being closed at our rail stations. Our stations need to be cleaner and better cared for as many stations; railway bridges and embankments are often littered with graffiti and rubbish and are an eyesore for commuters and local residents. Reporting these problems should also be quick and simple.”

Our railway stations must be safe, clean and accessible. Please join our campaign by signing our petition on line now at www.ourcampaign.org.uk/betterstations

Residents reported that rubbish had been dumped in Cazenove Road, behind the blue container belonging to the works being carried out in Chingford Road by the gas company, Cllr John Macklin asked council officers to investigate and have it removed.

Officers carried out an investigation and found

1. The blue container belongs to National Grid and is associated with the Borough wide gas works that are currently taking place.

2. The fly tip appears to come from the building works being carried on at the adjacent property, 293 Chingford Rd.

3. The scaffolding has been erected on the highway without permssion from the Council.

The rubbish was cleared earlier today after investigation by the Enforcement Officer.  The officer will now establish who the owners of 293 Chingford Rd are and interview them in relation to the offences of fly tipping and erecting a scaffolding on the highway without a permit.  They will also be advised to urgently apply for a permit for the scaffold or they will be served with a notice requiring it’s removal from the Highway.

Winter Weather Update Thursday 14th January 2010 - Time 17.00 pm

Forecast

It will be dry and overcast. Road temperatures falling close to freezing, although at this stage they are expected to stay above freezing. 　

Action proposed for tonight

No action planned for tonight. Gritters are on standby should the situation change.  

Salt supplies

Currently there is sufficient reserves to continue to treat high priority roads and other bus routes (”resilience network”) for 2 days based on the TfL criteria.Although replacement salt supplies have been ordered, with the continuing high demand for supplies, London Councils in conjunction with TfL are now coordinating the availability of the borough’s salt supply, to ensure that each has a minimum of two days supply. London Councils have confirmed that our next delivery of salt was for yesterday but is awaited.

While Labour call for a report on parking, LIB DEMS have again led the way by reducing some parking charges for the next financial year.

Car Park charges have again remained the same. The fourth year they have not increased. We have seen fit to keep charges the same during this period of uncertainty.

Some business permits have been reduced. A 12 month permit now costs £390.

Refund and administration fees have reduced to £10 from £22.

15 Minute  School permits stay at £15 for low emission vehicles

Visitors books of tickets have reduced from £21 to £18 for 5 hrs, 2 hr tickets reduced to £16 and 1 hr tickets have reduced to £14 from £15.

Winter Weather Update Wednesday 13th January 2010 - Time 17.30 pm

Winter Weather Update Wednesday 13th January 2010 - Time 9.00 am

Forecast

The is the risk of some sleet and snow continuing through the morning, with accumulations of up 2cm. Minimum road temperature should stay above freezing

Today’s Progress

Gritters are out in the borough keeping main roads and bus routes moving. Cleansing operatives will be clearing ice and snow from high use pedestrian areas.  

Grit bins are being restocked.

Action proposed for tonight

Action will be planned based on the weather reports obtained this afternoon.

Salt supplies

Currently there is sufficient reserves to continue to treat high priority roads and other bus routes (”resilience network”) for 2 days based on the TfL criteria. Although replacement salt supplies have been ordered, with the continuing high demand for supplies, London Councils in conjunction with TfL are now coordinating the availability of the borough’s salt supply, to ensure that each has a minimum of two days supply. 

London Councils have confirmed that our next delivery of salt was for yesterday but is awaited. 

 Forecast prediction

The general weather conditions are expected to improve over the next 5 days.

Next update 17.00pm Wednesday 13th Jan 2010

Winter Weather Update Monday 12th January 2010 - Time 17.00 PM

Forecast

The is the risk of some sleet and snow throughout the early hours overnight, with accumulations of up 1cm. Minimum road temperature minus 1.

Today’s Progress

Gritters have continued to attend to some of the affected carriageways to aid refuse and recycling collections.

Action proposed for tonight

Salt supplies

Rt Hon Lord Andrew Adonis, Secretary of State for TransportThe current cold weather is the most prolonged spell of freezing conditions across the UK for 29 years.  The Met Office do not forecast any significant improvement in the current conditions for some time.
Central and local government have already taken prudent measures to conserve salt supplies in order to keep Britain moving.  However,further measures are required to keep networks open throughout the forecast period of cold weather ahead. 
I am therefore putting in place arrangements to give a firm assurance that the essential national and local road network will receive necessary salt supplies to remain open during the freezing weather which is forecast for the next 10 days, and for the remainder of the winter. It is essential that a sustainable salt allocation regime, to keep these essential roads open, is put in place now.  If we did not act decisively reserves would run down fast, and essential roads would be at risk of closure if the freeze continues. 
I have discussed with local authority leaders and the Mayor of London the need for further salt conservation in order to ensure continuity of salt supply to keep open the essential road network.  They understand the need for further action.  I have therefore directed the Highways Agency to conserve the maximum possible salt usage each day, consistent with maintaining the continued safe operation of the national motorway and trunk road network.
Following a fundamental review of salt spreading, the Agency advise me that they can conserve significantly more salt usage each day, in addition to the 25 per cent agreed on Friday.  We will strive to keep the strategic road network open as we have done throughout the snow and freezing conditions since late December.
In order to avoid individual councils running out and to retain the ability to help any who get into difficulty, Local Authorities will also need to conserve significantly more than the 25 per cent agreed last week, by similarly reviewing their salt spreading strategy and
prioritising local networks as necessary.  I know that this will be challenging for some.  But by so doing, the Salt Cell distribution arrangements will enable new salt supplies to sustain all Local Authorities though the period ahead, and the Highways Agency will also
be in a position to provide assistance on a sustainable basis.  As and when the weather begins to improve we will give priority to relieving the pressure on Local Authorities.
In aggregate, these measures will need to conserve between 40 and 50 per cent compared to the levels of usage before Friday’s announcement.  On this basis we expect salt supplies to be sustainable throughout the period of snow and extreme cold weather.  Salt will continue to be targeted to the areas where there is most need.
We continue to take all possible steps to maximise the production of salt from our principal suppliers for the benefit of both Local Authorities and the Highways Agency.  Significant additional imports, ordered by the Highways Agency, are expected to commence later this
month in order to increase overall reserves.  These measures will allow us to alleviate specific shortages on parts of the network or in particular regions or authorities. 
It is essential that we all work together to keep Britain moving through the worst period of cold weather we have experienced for 29 years.  This is a time for subsuming individual interest in our overall national interest in keeping open the essential road network in all parts of the country. 

All refuse and recycling collections scheduled for Mondays that could not be undertaken on Monday 11th January were collected on Tuesday 12th Jan. Refuse and Recycling continued on Tuesday 12th January following the normal schedule. Recycling was collected from all scheduled roads except 1 road. Refuse was collected from all but 22 roads. We aim to collect from these roads as soon as practical.

Some collections have also been brought forward from Wednesday, Thursday and Friday because roads were missed last week. Collections will also be made on the scheduled days, weather and ground conditions permitting.

Crews have been instructed to take all excess refuse. All recycling collections this week will be mixed [co-mingled] All recyclable material that is collected will be recycled. Sorting will be undertaken at a Multi Recovery Facility [MRF]

Bulky collections are proceeding according to individual appointments.

Green Garden Waste collections have been suspended for this week.

Winter Weather Update Monday 11th January 2010 - Time 17.30 PM

Winter Weather Update Monday 11th January 2010 - Time 9.30 am

Forecast

The is low risk of some isolated light snow and sleet showers during the morning. The afternoon and overnight generally dry and cloudy. Minimum temperature zero.  

Today’s Progress

Gritters are continuing to attend to some of the affected carriageways.

Action proposed for tonight  

 Decision will be made late afternoon. Gritters on standby should the situation change.

Salt supplies

Currently there is sufficient reserves to continue to treat high priority roads and other bus routes ( “resilience network”) for 2 days based on the TfL criteria. Although replacement salt supplies have been ordered, with the continuing high demand for supplies, London Councils in conjunction with TfL are now coordinating the availability of the borough’s salt supply, to ensure that each has a minimum of two days supply.

London Councils have confirmed that our next delivery of salt will be on the Tuesday 12 Jan.

 Forecast prediction

The general weather conditions are expected to slightly improve for the next 5 days.  

Next update 17.00pm  Monday 11th Jan 2010

Council announce good news that the Lottery bid for Lloyd and Aveling Park has been successful and that we have been awarded £3,483,000 from HLF/BIG under their Parks for People initiative.

Time 17.20pm

Forecast The forecast for tonight and early hours of tomorrow is predicting the continued chance of show showers, with accumulations of up to 3cm. Between any showers the sky will then clear allowing road surface temperatures to drop below freezing. (minus 1 Celsius)

On our regular ward walks rubbish was spotted in the ally between
Spencer Road and Fulbourne Road and in Warburton Terrace

We have asked for this to be removed

Two days saw a complete change in how Monoux Grove looks following the road maintenance program

From a road full of pot holes to a new street

Lib Dems working to improve your life

 Councillor Bob Belam, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Regeneration at Waltham Forest Council and  Stephen Sears, Director of Policy and Strategy, Local Government Services for May Gurney officially launched the re-use centre on Tuesday 14 April and took a tour of the new site.

Waltham Forest Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Bob Belam, said; “Our  residents work really hard to recycle as much of their rubbish as possible and this is reflected in the fact that we’ve got one of the best recycling rate in London. “This is good news and is playing a big part in our bid to be the greenest borough in London. “But we also want residents to re-use more as it is even better than recycling and can have a greater beneficial impact on the environment because it uses less resources and energy to do it. “This scheme means less waste sent to landfill, less energy and resources being used and bargains for residents right on their doorstep.”

5. Silver cutlery set

A BRAND new recycling education centre has opened in the borough.

The John Beanse Waste and Recycling Education Centre in Pimp Hall Park, Chingford, has been designed to get children involved in recycling and learn about the environment.

The centre boasts exciting interactive displays, interesting artefacts and films about recycling and waste issues.

Young people can also take part by making their own paper, glass painting and T-shirt designs.

Councillor Bob Belam, (Lib Dem, Chapel End), the council’s cabinet member for environment, said the centre was the perfect way to get youngsters to care for the environment.

He said: “We want to get the message across at an early age that recycling is easy, good for the environment and the right thing to do.

“We need to use less, recycle more and take care of the environment and this centre will help us do precisely that.”

Waste and recycling sessions are led by the council’s recycling education officer and are suitable for primary and secondary school pupils.

The centre also offers talks for community groups and workshops for groups working with young people.

The centre was named after the late Lib Dem Councillor John Beanse, who passed away in October last year.

For more information about the new centre, call Anita Starling on 020 8496 3000.

 RECYCLING rates in some parts of the borough have doubled during the first week of a new waste scheme.

Waltham Forest Council launched the trial where residents could mix all of their recyclables together in either a bag or wheelie bin.

It means that refuse collectors do not have to sort through recyclables and place them into separate compartments of the truck. Instead, the recyclables will be sorted at a recovery facility.

Initial figures for the first week show that in the pilot areas, the amount of recyclables collected was 59 tonnes, compared to 30 tonnes before the trial was put in place.

The trial has been running for a month and council bosses anticpated the figures will remain higher throughout the trial.

The scheme was set up after residents said they wanted recycling to be made easier, and once the trial has ended, council bosses will decide to roll the scheme out borough wide.

Councillor Bob Belam (Lib Dem, Chapel End), the council’s cabinet member for environment, hailed the first month of the trial as a success.

He said: “This is great news for the borough.

“By making recycling easier for our residents, we are seeing less waste going to landfill which will have a positive impact on the environment, and residents’ pockets.”

Waltham Forest recycled 30 per cent of its waste last year and must improve to 38 per cent this year to meet government targets.

If the targets are not met heavy fines will be in place, which could cost each household in the borough up to £45 in increased council tax.

Residents regularly complain of fly tipping in Garner Road

This lot was deposited over night on 20th April

Your Lib Dem councillors have asked for officers to monitor the area.

If you can identify the culprits the council will take them to court.

Because dog waste is no longer treated as clinical waste by the government it can now be disposed of with conventional waste, separate dog bins will no longer be available. Dog waste bins will be swapped for litter bins, and their emptying will become the responsibility of our contractors. There has been a problem with delays in bin supply, particularly on the Chestnuts site, but this has now been rectified

 Monoux Grove

Due to the snow earlier this year, we have pot holes than usual.

Cllr Bob Belam Cabinet Member for Environment has put an extra £750,000 into the budget to accelerate repairs

Be a greenie not a meanie and learn about climate change at this year’s Green Fair

This year’s event at Lloyd and Aveling Park will take place 2pm-7pm, 20 July and will feature creative and musical work by young people inspired by William Morris’ cultural legacy

Visitors on the day will encounter a musical interpretation of William Morris’ green utopia within the park while artwork created by young people working with local artists will also be displayed.

There will also be plenty of information to help residents do their bit to tackle climate change and increase the amount they recycle, fun activities for children, live music, food and drink.

The Green Fair is the Council’s annual environmental event which aims to improve people’s awareness of green issues and help people to make the small changes to their lives, which can help to make a dramatic effect on the environment.

Following a complaint by a resident of Macdonald Road claiming the road had not been swept for 4 weeks, your Focus Team arranged for Kier Street Services to do a thorough clean of both sides of the bridge.

When they left all the weeds had been removed and the street was in a class A condition.

It was clear however that the street had been swept in recent weeks.

On our regular ward walk on Saturday Cllrs John Macklin and Bob Belam came across this rubbish dumped under the arch at 31/44 Ashdown Court.

We asked officers to carry out an inspection to see who is responsible for the removal of rubbish, the purpose builds sheds and management of the site.

An inspector will be visiting today and will be liasing with colleagues in order to resolve this issue.

On our regular ward walk on Saturday Cllrs John Macklin and Bob Belam came across a gully that was blocked by concrete.

We have asked for it to be cleared.

An order went out this morning to have it inspected and cleaned.

Liberal Democrats working for you!

Following a complaint by a resident at our surgery on Saturday

we asked for action to be taken against this overloaded skip.

An order went out this morning to have it inspected and cleared and for action to be taken against the company for an unlicensed skip.

Liberal Democrats working for you!

Following a complaint by a resident at our surgery on Saturday we asked for these barriers to be removed.

An order went out this morning to have it inspected and the barriers removed.

We also asked for all other barriers left after utility works have been completed are inspected and that enforcement is taken against the companies involved.

Following complaints about vehicles going up Farnan the wrong way, Cllr Bob Belam visited the area today.

In the 5 minutes that it took me to photograph the area two vehicles attempted to travel the wrong way. Each realising there had been a change to the road lay out reversed and travelled up Kenilworth

I have asked officers to look at the signage again as the signs that are there are obviously not working

Over 200 volunteers from the Church of Latter Day Saints transformed one of the boroughs run down parks. They also did some clearing and planting in the sensory gardens behind Walthamstow Library.

Cllr Bob Belam was on hand to thank the volunteers on behalf of the borough.

They have really done a splendid job.

I hope the residents appreciate the change.

Shame Cllr Reardon did not see fit to visit one of her parks.

Cllr Bob Belam has reported these dumped mattresses.

DON’T DUMP IT GET IT COLLECTED

Phone 020 8496 3000

Cllr Bob Belam has reported this inspection cover again.

It is time it was repaired as it is dangerous

Lib Dems working for you

Walthamstow library was shut on Monday 23 June following a small fire that took place in the building early on Monday morning.

“The Council is working closely with the Fire Brigade to establish the cause of the fire.

“The library will be shut until it has been confirmed that there is no risk to members of the public. Work to rectify any damage will begin as soon as possible.

“We would like to apologise to residents for any inconvenience this incident has caused and would like to thank them for their patience.”

We received notification today that of the 3 Waltham Forest post offices still under review, Forest Road Post office has been saved from closure - one of only 7 in London.Post Watch cite a major reason for retaining the service as being the numbers of elderly and vulnerable people living in the area, and levels of deprivation in the surrounding areas

While we are pleased that the Forest Road post office remains open we are disappointed that the one in Chingford Road looks like it will close

While out delivering the latest Focus we spotted these overgrown hedges.

We have asked the Highways Maintenance department to ask residents to cut back this overhanging vegetation impacting upon the highway.

We would not like to see Enforcement action taken against these residents but it is unfair on other users of the highway.

We also came across this fridge sitting in the kerb.

We have asked for it to be removed.

To leave a fridge like this is a danger to children. We would hate to see a child injured from playing inside a dumped fridge.

You can get a free removal from the council by phoning 020 8496 3000.

It is great to see that someone has repaired the wall around the plantation on the corner of Rushbrook Crescent and Brettenham Road.

We requested this to be done some time ago.

It really looks nice and adds to the area.

It is a shame that a contractor has left their barriers in amongst the bushes.

We have asked for them to be removed.

Kier Street Services are beginning to make an impact on our streets.

From the photo you can see an operative beginning to remove the detritus from the kerbs.

This should make all our streets look better.

 Cllr John Macklin and the offending car.

While delivering the latest Focus over the weekend in Brookscroft Road, your councillors spotted this burnt out vehicle.

We reported it on Monday and were pleased to see that by 3.30 p.m. it had been removed.

LIB DEMS working for you!

Pictured Lib Dem Councillor Bob Belam with Michael Hayes National Express Environmental Champion at Chingford Station. 

This is the first paper recycling facility to be opened at a transport hub in the borough.National Express and the council are looking at ways of installing these facilities at main line stations across the borough. 

The council is talking to LU with a view to having recycling at all Underground stations by the end of the year. 

If you want something done it is the LIB DEMS who get it done

Samina Safdar has become the twentieth Liberal Democrat councillor in Waltham Forest after taking the vacant Forest ward seat in last night’s by-election. The full result was: 

SAMINA SAFDAR (LIB DEM) 977

Jawade Liaqat (Labour) 927 

Edwin Northover (Conservative) 507 

Mark Dawes (Green) 184 

Makola Mayambika (Left List) 56 

Turnout 32.33 per cent, 2,661 votes cast

New Mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr. Sheila Smith-Pryor has announced that she is hoping to raise lots of money during her year of office to support two local good causes:

1. Branches is a day centre and night shelter for homeless people. It is situated in Forest Rd E17. The night shelter offers a hot evening meal a bed and breakfast . The day centre provides a midday meal. There are showers clothing and laundry facilities. Branches also assists people to move back into proper homes.

2. MSAction is based in Billet Rd E17. It offers high pressure oxygen therapy to people with M.S. It does not receive any funding from the NHS and charges £10 for an hours therapy.It is not a cure but can help to keep the disease at bay and improve the quality of life.There are only 4 such units in the country and we are fortunate to have one in our borough. It is also unique in that it is the only unit that treats children with Cerebral Palsy. Again it is not a cure but can improve the quality of their lives, which has a knock-on effect on the whole family.

Anyone wishing to donate can send a cheque [payable to The Mayor’s Charity] to the Mayor’s Parlour, Town Hall, Forest Road, Walthamstow, E17 4JF.

On a regular ward walk your councillors spotted these barriers left by contractors.

The Focus Team have asked McNicholas to remove them as soon as possible.

LIB DEMS WORKING ALL YEAR ROUND

Your Focus Team have reported pot holes in

Northbank Road, Monoux Grove and Penrhyn Avenue

If you know where there are any others please let one of the team know.

LIB DEMS WORKING FOR YOU

On a regular ward walk your councillors spotted these garages at the rear of Cecil House had been broken into.

The Focus Team have asked Ascham homes to repair them as soon as possible.

Pictured Lib Dem Councillor Bob Belam with Michael Hayes National Express Environmental Champion at Chingford Station. 

This is the first paper recycling facility to be opened at a transport hub in the borough.National Express and the council are looking at ways of installing these facilities at main line stations across the borough. 

The council is talking to LU with a view to having recycling at all Underground stations by the end of the year. 

If you want something done it is the LIB DEMS who get it done

This sofa was dumped outside St Johns Church recycling centre in Chingford Road.

Don’t dump it. The Council gives three free collections a year for furniture and other bulky items.

Phone 020 8496 3000 and arrange a collection by appointment.

Last night’s Annual Council meeting in the Walthamstow Assembly Hall saw Lib Dem Cllr Sheila Smith-Pryor invested as Mayor of Waltham Forest.

Cllr Smith-Pryor’s ward colleague in Hale End and Highams Park, Cllr John Beanse, made the speech proposing her for the position.

Cllr John Macklin Councillor for Chapel End and newly elected Leader of the Lib Dems seconded the proposition.

Whilst welcoming the decision to rethink the closure of the three threatened post offices in Walthamstow, it was a surprise to see Labour MP Neil Gerrard and ex-councillor Stella Creasey attempting to bask in the glory of this stay of execution (‘Stay of execution for at-risk post offices’ 15/5/08). 

Labour’s apparent hand-brake turn in its support for the closures is certainly welcome, but will justifiably be seen by local people as an attempt to save face in Waltham Forest by distancing themselves from their national Labour colleagues mistakes. 

However it is difficult not to come to the conclusion that these voices of dissent against the closures would have been more effective if used where they would have been heard the loudest – in Mr Gerrard’s case, within the walls of Parliament. 

Just last year, Walthamstow MP Neil Gerrard, alongside his neighbour Harry Cohen, voted AGAINST an opposition motion raised in Parliament which condemned the programme of closures and urged the Government to give our post offices greater freedom to develop their businesses. 

This mirrors the actions of local Labour councillors – including Ms Creasey - who were so quick to dismiss proposals by local Lib Dems that expressed grave concern at the Labour Government’s plans. 

Let’s make no mistake here – these are Labour closures being ‘opposed’ by Labour representatives because they know it affects their local electoral chances. 

Cllr John Macklin, Cllr Bob Belam, Cllr Bob Carey

Liberal Democrat Chapel End Councillors

On Wednesday 21^st May Cllr Bob Belam made a site visit to Kitchener Road park with officers from the Greenspace Department.

Following a petition and enquiries from residents who would like to see access to the park from Cheshire Close and play equipment for young children.

The officers have been asked to make enquiries and report back on the feasibility of both ideas.

Community Councils now have £10,000 to be spent each year on community based projects. This would seem like one of them.

 If you are interested in helping, please contact one of the Focus Team

Cllr Bob Belam complained that the grass in the Chapel End area had not been cut for some time.

This has now been rectified.

 Below are the actions taken following a spate of racist graffiti. It is so offensive that we will not publish photo’s here.

Your Lib Dem councillors are appalled by this action.

Over the last 2 days, there has been a rash of racist graffiti applied to a variety of surfaces, predominantly brickwork but also painted surfaces, footways and road ways. The slogan “Jihad is the only solution for Israel” seems to have been applied using a stencil. This means that the graffiti can be applied quickly and discretely.

Cllr Bob Belam has today reported the large pot hole in Monoux Grove.

 If you know of others in your road please report to a member of the Focus Team

There are six Community Councils covering the Borough and each have an annual budget of £10,000 to spend in their local area. 

The area you live in comes under Walthamstow West. 

The Council are changing the budget so that each ward has £10,000 to spend. 

Your ward is Chapel End. 

Do you have any ideas on how this money should be spent within the community you live. 

Does your local park need improvement?. Does your local nursery need new equipment? 

Contact the Chapel End Focus Team

FREEPOST RLYG-BTER-YLJZ

92 Douglas Avenue Walthamstow E17 5BW

As part of the Local Safety Scheme for Fulbourne Road, the Council is planning to improve safety for pedestrians and drivers to reduce road casualties. There have been a total of 16 slight and serious accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles in the last 3 years. The scheme also aims to improve road safety for children who will be travelling to and from the new Frederick Bremer Secondary School, which is due to open in September.

 The Focus Team urge you to return the consultation documents.

The Borough’s most popular park will be transformed after the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery earmarked £3.6 million to renovate it. The Lottery body announced today (May 5) that Waltham Forest Council is to receive £167,000, which will be used to develop its plans to restore Lloyd and Aveling Park to its former glory and create new 21^st Century facilities. The funding will be used to carry out extensive planting, restoration of the park and improvements to its layout. Existing facilities such as the Changing Room Gallery will be improved and a new bowls centre and skate park will be built.The new look park will celebrate the life and work of William Morris and attract new visitors to the Gallery bearing his name.The Council has a year to make a detailed application for the £3.6million funding with a final decision from the HLF expected in August 2009. The authority will also be investing £1million of its own money to support the transformation. 

Cllr Bob Belam reported this flytipping in Penrhyn Avenue today.

I have asked that this flytipping is removed today.

This type of behaviour makes our streets look untidy and helps create an image that also makes residents feel unsafe.

Following a complaint from a resident of Chaucer Road, Cllr Bob Belam visited the ally between Chaucer Road and Spencer Road this morning.

I have asked that this flytipping is removed today.

This type of behaviour makes our streets look untidy and helps create an image that also makes residents feel unsafe.

Dont dump it ring 0208 496 3000 and arrange a collection.

There appears to have been a number of recycling boxes missed in Brettenham Road this morning.

Cllr Bob Belam has asked for an investigation into this situation.

The recycling should be collected later today.

Another bed has been dumped on our streets.

This is not necessary and costs you money through council tax.

Just phone 0208 496 3000 and arrange a free collection.

A number of grey bags have been left out all over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Cllr Bob Belam has asked for an investigation into this situation.

These should be cleared on the same day as the road sweeper, leaves them after cleaning your road.

The council has agreed to consult residents on an extension to the current CPZ program.

Part of Chapel End ward will be consulted.

Farnan Avenue, Chandos Avenue, Kenilworth Avenue, which are all  heavily parked will be consulted ahead of the councils policy for its “Staff Travel Plan” implementation at the Town Hall.

 Chingford Road from Bell Corner to Omnibus Way will also be consulted.

Across from Chingford Road, Bedford Road, Dudley Road, Bromley Road in William Morris ward will also be consulted and will form one CPZ area.

Once again people are dumping rubbish in Warburton Terrace.

If you have rubbish that you need to get rid of either take it to the facility in South Access Road or call 020 8496 3000 and arrange a pre-booked appointment for collection

DON’T LEAVE IT ON OUR STREETS

Waste and recycling collections will continue as normal over the Easter Bank Holidays on Friday 21 March 2008 and Monday 24 March 2008.

Around a third of the contents of an average refuse bin is organic waste which could be composted. Composting at home is a great way to prevent this waste going to landfill, where it releases methane, a major greenhouse gas.

Composting at home will give you a free source of nutrient-rich plant food for your garden.

How to purchase a home composting unit

Until 31 March 2008, you can order up to two 330 litre compost bins from the Council for £12 each. This price includes delivery. To order, please call Waltham Forest Direct on 020 8496 3000. From 1 April 2008, residents will be able to purchase compost bins that are subsidised by the Council directly from Recycle Now. More information will be available on the new scheme shortly. For further information contact Anita Starling on 020 8496 3000.

Walthamstow councillors have launched a stinging attack on Labour parliamentary candidate Stella Creasy by accusing her of “two-faced cynicism” over local post office closures. 

The Labour parliamentary candidate has attempted to position herself at the centre of efforts to save the three Walthamstow post offices threatened with closure.  However, during her time as councillor for Walthamstow’s Lea Bridge ward she attempted to vote down a Liberal Democrat motion to Full Council that called on the Council to oppose the government’s closure programme. 

The angry reaction by local Liberal Democrats comes as they prepare to present a further motion to Full Council that calls on councillors from all sides to state their opposition to post office closures.

 Cllr Bob Carey, whose Chapel End ward could see two branches axed, said: “It is galling to see Ms Creasy jump on the bandwagon with regards to these closures. “Unfortunately for her, people have longer memories than she may give them credit for.  As a councillor 5 years ago, she, along with her Labour colleagues, attempted to remove a clause from a Liberal Democrat motion that expressed concern about both the effect of proposed post office closures on the vulnerable and elderly and the distance that they would be forced to travel in order to access vital services. 

“Now resident outcry about these Government closures has reached a crescendo, we hear her become one of those rushing to repeat these concerns almost parrot-like. 

“I’m sure that residents will see this two-faced scramble to act as a champion for our most vulnerable residents as little more than a cynical act of political chicanery. 

Cllr Carey, who will move the Liberal Democrat motion before Full Council, warned that opposition to the six immediate proposed closures in Waltham Forest was only the beginning of the work that needed to be done.

 “ Post Office representatives confirmed to council scrutiny just this week that  even if we are successful in saving one of the six branches immediately under threat, this would more than likely mean another branch closed in order to meet the required quota of government closures. “We hope both Labour and the Conservative councillors will support our motion this Thursday and come out strongly against the government’s closure programme. 

Residents complained about the state of the road following the councils contractor replacing street light columns.

Cllr Bob Belam has contacted the department responsible to take a look at the work and remedy it.

Chingford Road from the Billet to Morrisons is about to get a new road surface.

You will see the signs saying

OVERNIGHT ROAD RESURFACING

STARTS HERE

2 MARCH – 9 MARCH

8 PM TO 6 AM

DELAYS POSSIBLE

ENQUIRIES 020 8496 3000

To update you following events today.

The CA site and bulking bays at South Access have been closed by the police due to a fire in the nearby bakery. 

There are 14 recycling crews who have not been able to tip tonight.  They will be able to tip first thing in the morning at Edmonton, if the site is still closed.

There will be some disruption with tomorrow’s collections. Arrangements are in place to complete Saturday if required.

Advance warning signs are being erected tonight on the approach to the CA Site warning that it is closed. Access to Low Hall is not affected nor is the bus service.
 
 Please leave all boxes out, they will be collected by Saturday at the latest. In relation to access to the CA Site this is expected to be restored late Friday afternoon, it is expected that the site will remain closed all day Friday unless the police remove the closure sooner.

 Winnie & Brian Paddick Mayoral candidate on the election trail.

WINNIE SMITH recaptured the third Leyton Ward council seat last night in a spectacular Valentine’s Day victory.

The appeal was lost, with the judge commenting that Grell’s evidence was “contrived and not honest” and that she “has let herself down and everyone in her community.” Last night’s resounding win for Winnie Smith shows what the voters think of this shameful episode.

Labour’s vote was cut to 29% and David Cameron’s Tories were left trailing in fourth place, only beating the Green by 18 votes.Congratulations to the team in Leyton, especially Bob, Jenny and Henry, and also to the many people who went to help in person or on the phones.

Cllr Bob Belam reported lights not working at the Billet Roundabout

Below is an officers response

A contractor working for Transport for London appears to have damaged a LBWF street lighting cable feeding six lights around the Billet Rd junction on to the Roundabout.

TfL have been informed of the situation and we are in the process now of locating where the damage has occurred. We have engaged a specialist to locate and repair as necessary.

Any costs will be recharged to the contractor.

At this stage I cannot confirm when the lights will be re-energised, but we will be pressing for the repair to be made at the earliest time.

Waltham Forest is having a big conversation on climate change. Tell us your bright idea on climate change and we’ll give you a free low energy light bulb!

Write down your idea, draw a picture or write a poem on how to tackle climate change in your house, neighbourhood, school or business.

Your idea could be something you’re already doing that other people could copy or adapt. You might have an idea of something you would like all residents, businesses, organisations or the Council to do. You could also tell us how you feel about climate change, and how you feel about what is being done at the moment.

Submit your idea online

Or you can send your idea to:

Climate Change, Waltham Forest Town Hall, E17 4JF

The closing date for ideas is 15 February 2008.

Terms and conditions

1. Entry assumes acceptance of these terms and conditions.

2. An entrant must be a resident of Waltham Forest or have close links to Waltham Forest by either going to school, working or running a business within Waltham Forest.

3. A bulb will be supplied to eligible entrants subject to availability.

4. Prizes are non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. Waltham Forest Council reserves the right to substitute prizes of equal value or greater value at any time.

5. Waltham Forest excludes liability for any defects or faults to the bulbs or prizes or any loss or damage suffered whatsoever.

6. Waltham Forest will not accept entries submitted after the deadline and reserves the right to exclude offensive entries.

7. Waltham Forest Council reserves the right to verify eligibility of all entrants.

8. Prizes are awarded at Waltham Forest Council’s discretion.

9. Waltham Forest Council’s decision is final.

Following a number of accidents on the bend by the Pool & Track the Focus Team asked officers to look at the area.

Below is their latest response.

The damage to the boundary wall to No 162 and 164 Chingford Road was caused by a vehicle travelling from the Billet losing control on the bend.I have looked at the site and, whilst the road surface appears to be in good condition, I would nevertheless recommend that anti-skid surfacing  be laid at the earliest opportunity.  Highways are currently making the necessary arrangements for the work that should be carried out quite soon – weather permitting.Work on development of the Local Safety Scheme that is on the 2008/09 capital programme commences in April at which time a detailed accident study will be carried out.  The development of proposals will be dependent on the results of the accident study and consultations with local residents and stakeholders. Although the introduction of the local safety scheme is programmed for introduction in 2009/10 advanced funding will be sought from Transport for London for implementation of that part of the scheme relating to reducing accidents on the approaches to the bend.

Following complaints from residents Cllr Bob Carey and Cllr Bob Belam included this area on their ward walk.

From the photos you can see it is not being cleaned to the standard we expect.

We have asked for this area to be cleared and litter picked.

We have asked for the person who is responsible to be retained.

We look forward to an improvement.

On a regular ward walk Cllr Bob Carey and Cllr Bob Belam were disgusted with the state of the area between Beresford Road and the A406.

We have complained about this area before.

As you can see by the photos there is a variety of dumped material.

We have asked for this area to be cleared and litter picked.

We have also asked for any information identifying those who dumped rubbish be used to take action against those individuals

The programmed date for the implementation of new one-ways is 12
February 2008.

Cllrs Belam, Carey and Macklin are pleased to say that following residents and the ward councillors concerns, this sceme is being implemented. We hope that this will resolve some of the traffic issues.

Local Liberal Democrats have reacted angrily to the news that Labour is failing to live up to its promise to protect playing fields. 

Figures uncovered by the Lib Dems show that playing fields deemed vital to local sport are being lost at a rate of one a week. 

The government have been forced to reveal statistics, in response to a request by the Liberal Democrats, which show that on average 843 planning applications affecting playing fields are accepted each year. 

Of those applications approved, Sport England believe that an average of 57 a year constitute a ‘threat’ to sporting provision for surrounding communities. 

Liberal Democrat councillor for Chapel End, John Macklin, has led local calls for the better protection of grassroots sporting facilities within Waltham Forest, a problem highlighted by the cutting of lottery grants to sporting organisations ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games in East London.

 Lib Dems on Waltham Forest Council recently unveiled proposals for the formation of a ‘Sports Academy’, comprising existing venues within the borough, which would offer specialist coaching and training in relevant skills such as physiotherapy.

 Cllr Macklin said: “It’s an absolute travesty that the nation’s playing fields legacy is being sold off under our noses. “The mass selling off of playing fields both in our area and across the UK was supposed to be a nothing but a bad memory of the Conservative government of the 1980’s.  Instead, we have Labour MP’s admitting that they have failed to tackle the problem, as they promised to do in 1997.” 

Cllr Macklin also noted that the figures released by the government did not include smaller playing fields.

 “Labour announced as far back as 2002 that they were reducing the size threshold for statutory consultation on playing fields.  This has proved to be yet another broken promise.  “A real legacy of the Olympic Games in 2012 would be for our budding sportsmen and women in Waltham Forest to still have the green spaces available to be able to practice and participate in sports with their friends. “Labour now has to stop selling off our playing fields and end the empty rhetoric and broken promises regarding its commitment to sporting activity.”

Below is a typical complaint from a resident

 I am a resident of Aveling Park Road, E17  
 
I am writing to express my disgust and frustration at the increasing amount of dog faeces on the pavements. I take my son to school at Chapel End, and also use a pushchair for my toddler. Every journey, I am faced with the challenge of how to avoid dog faeces which has been trodden in all over the pavements. It is a regular occurance that we end up with faeces on our shoes, pushchair, and thus in our house. How often are children treading dog faeces into their classrooms unknowingly, which is even more of a worry.
 
This is an issue that has been a problem for a long time, but has now become intolerable. I have spoken with many parents and neighbours who are equally unhappy at the state of our streets.
 
I have approached our regular street cleaner, who is fully aware of the problem. However, in between his rounds every day, there are owners allowing their dogs to defecate, and his intervention alone is not solving the problem.
 
I would like to know what is being done to address the increasing problem of irresponsible dog owners.

Cllr Bob Belam has asked for the road to be cleaned and for enforcement officers to patrol the streets in an effort to catch uncaring owners.

You can help to, if you can identify the owners call 020 8496 3000 or report it online

Application No.  

2007/2313  .

Application Type:  Full planning   

Crooked Billet Roundabout Wadham Road Walthamstow London E17    

Description:  

Construction of a new single-storey London Ambulance Service sub-station involving the provision of parking for 3 ambulances and 5 staff cars and the erection of new perimeter fencing as shown on 1:1250 location plan and drawings 011A, 012, 013A, 015A and 016A received on 13 November 2007.  

 Decision:  Approved with conditions informatives on 15/01/2008  

This permission shall be limited to a period of 5 years expiring on 31 January 2013. At the expiration of that period the building shall be removed and any works necessary for the reinstatement of the site shall be carried out to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority.  Prior to the commencement of the development, full details of the fencing and gates to be provided at the site shall be submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority. The works shall be completed in accordance with the agreed details prior to the first use of the building hereby approved.  Details of all external facing and roofing materials shall be submitted to, and approved by the Local Planning Authority before development commences.  The buidling hereby permitted shall be used as a London Ambulance Station sub-station only and for no other purpose.  

The development shall not begin until full details of both hard and soft landscaping have been submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority. The building hereby approved shall not be used until these works have been completed in accordance with the approved details. All planting, seeding or turfing comprised in the approved details of landscaping shall be carried out in the first planting season following the initial occupation of the building hereby permitted or the substantial completion of the development, whichever is sooner. Any trees, shrubs or plants forming part of the approved landscaping scheme which within a period of 5 years from the occupation or substantial completion of the development die, are removed or become seriously damaged or diseased, shall be replaced in the next planting season with others of similar size and species, unless the Local Planning Authority gives its written consent to any variation.

Dealing with waste rubbish is a major issue across the country and particularly in London. Councils in Waltham Forest, Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey and Islington are developing a joint plan to deal with North London’s waste up to the year 2020. This North London Waste Plan, if and when adopted, will form part of each council’s planning policy under their Local Development Framework (the successors to their current Unitary Development Plans). The Plan will identify sites for a wide range of facilities needed in the future to manage the waste produced in North London.  The Plan is in the early stages of preparation and consultations are now beginning seeking the public’s views about the key issues and policy options that have been proposed.  As part of the consultation programme a workshop will be held in each of the boroughs during January and February 2008. The workshops are open for key stakeholders and members of the public to meet representatives of the Councils and the North London Waste Authority.

The workshop to be held in Waltham Forest will take place from 6:30-8:30pm on Monday 28 January 2008 at the EduAction Conference Centre, Queens Road, Walthamstow, E17.

 If you would like to attend, please contact the Waste Plan’s Project Manager, Archie Onslow on 020 7974 5916 or e-mail events@nlwp.net. 

The full issues and options report can be viewed at www.nlwp.net. Printed copies will be available for viewing from Friday 18 January at Sycamore House at the Town Hall complex, at the council’s libraries and at Waltham Forest Direct shops.

A Low Emission Zone (LEZ) for the Greater London Area is being introduced by Transport for London (TfL) on 4th February 2008.   Boundary signs are now being erected in Waltham Forest at all the zone entry points at or near the northern edge of the Borough.   The aim is to improve air quality in London by deterring the most polluting vehicles from driving in the area. 

More details of the affected vehicles, the emission standards and how to pay can be found on TfL’s website at: www.tfl.gov.uk/lezlondon  

This web page also includes details of consultations carried out in 2006 and 2007, and the Mayor of London’s decision to implement the scheme.  A telephone enquiry line: 0845 607 0009 is also available. 

Any vehicle can enter the zone but drivers of the affected vehicles must pay a daily charge of £200 if the vehicle does not met the LEZ emission standards. 

Vehicles exceeding 1.205 tonnes unladen weight may be affected.  The zone does not affect cars, motorcycles or small vans.

We have recently completed the first draft version of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan. This is a strategic document which demonstrates how we intend to improve the rights of way for the current and future needs of all users of the network within the Borough. There is a statutory consultation period lasting eight weeks. The document will be available on the Council’s website at www.walthamforest.gov.uk/ROWIP Draft for Consultation.pdff from Monday 28th January. 

Waltham Forest residents recycled waste weighing the same as 179 double decker buses over the Christmas period 

During December last year residents rose to the recycling challenge by increasing the amount of recyclable material they placed in their black boxes by half   

Even better news was the revelation that there was no increase in the amount of non-recyclable waste collected in December 2007 compared with November 2007. This is great news as there is usually a big surge in the amount of rubbish produced over Christmas. 

The figures have come to light just three months after the Council introduced compulsory recycling. 

The Council’s Lib Dem Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Bob Belam, said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to residents who really took recycling seriously over Christmas.  

“Residents have really taken the reuse, reduce and recycle message to heart over Christmas and I hope we will carry on increasing the amount we recycle throughout the whole of next year.”

Over the two-week Christmas holiday period Waltham Forest residents recycled the equivalent of 800,000, two litre plastic bottles this is enough to make 32,000 adult’s fleece jackets.

Application No.  

2007/2169  

Application Type:  

Full planning  

First Floor Flat 2  20 Thorpe Road  Walthamstow  London  E17 4LA  

Description: 

 Loft conversion with rear dormer window to first floor flat as shown  on revised drawing titled loft conversion revision A received on 7  January 2008.  

Decision:  Approved with conditions informatives on 08/01/2008  

The materials to be used shall match as closely as possible, in type,  colour and texture, those on the existing dwelling.  The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the  expiration of three years from the date of this permission.  

Application Number

  2008/0012  

 Type of Application 

Full planning 

Erection of a single storey rear extension.   

Development Address

44 Macdonald Road  Walthamstow  London  E17 4AZ  

 Application Number 

2008/0028   

Type of Application 

Full planning Room in the roof with rear dormer window.  

Development Address 

50 Farnan Avenue  Walthamstow  London  E17 4NG

The one-ways in Farnan and Kenilworth Avenues are programmed to be implemented before the end of next month. 

We are awaiting the electrical connections by EDF to the new sign posts at present. 

 Once that is done the council will write to the residents informing them of the  introduction of one-ways at least one week in advance of the exact date of implementation.

Once again unscrupulous builders have dumped rubble in Warburton Terrace. 

Cllr Bob Belam has asked the council to get it removed.

Every time this happens it costs the Council money.

If you spot fly tippers please call 020 8496 3000

Another accident has caused concern for residents in Chingford Road by the bend at the Pool & Track. 

A driver crashed through a newly built wall on Christmas Eve. The resident had only just had it rebuilt following a similar accident last July.

On New Years Day another driver demolished a bollard on the pavement nearby.

Cllr Bob Belam has identified some money to have design work done on a safety scheme to prevent more damage to the homes on the bend.

The remedial work will be carried out in the new financial year starting April.

This project is designed to introduce a new way of increasing the number of trees planted in residential areas and on the high streets across the borough as a local initiative to help reduce the effects of climate change and green our streets.

Trees are a key element of our countryside, but they also have a major part to play in urban areas. Trees in parks and other open spaces, or lining the sides of our streets, railways and rivers are of great importance to people, particularly in residential areas.They can also provide valuable habitats for wildlife, improve the air we breathe, and help to conserve energy in nearby buildings.

The aim of the scheme is to encourage local businesses such as estate agents and factories to help us reach our goal and plant 120 in the first year and every year after to plant a minimum of 36 trees under this initiative. The plant-a-tree scheme is part of our climate change programme: it will support the local community, and take practical steps to tackle global warming.

By planting more trees it will contribute to addressing the problem of climate change while bringing benefits to local communities and conserving biodiversity. Planting trees can help slow down climate change because trees absorb carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. Trees play an important part in reducing the amount of C02 released into the environment so by planting more trees it will help manage these increasing levels.

The objective of the project is to introduce a new way of planting more trees in the borough but at neutral cost to the Council. This will be done by obtaining funding from local businesses to plant trees in areas of the borough that need them most.

• Priority will be given to areas that have little or no trees.
• Areas around factories and industrial estates will also be looked at to see how many trees and where they can be planted to try and offset their carbon footprint produced by these business and organisations.
• Shopping centres, town centres and playgrounds will also be looked at to see if more trees can be planted to act as shade as the summer months become hotter.
• This will all act as a positive step towards addressing the issues of climate change and a step toward improving local collaboration and partnership.

How it will work

Local factories, businesses in industrial estates and estate agents will be asked to plant a minimum of 12 trees each a year, i.e. a tree a month. There will be a variation on this depending on the size of the company. Smaller businesses will be asked to sign up for 12 where as big or national companies may be asked to plant a minimum of 2 trees a months making it 24 in total. Any company wishing to plant more may do so.

This will make the borough a safer, cleaner and greener environment and do a small bit to help the battle of climate change.

A payment of £150 will buy the tree, get it planted and nurtured until the tree is established. The council will carry out the maintenance and pruning. This make a real difference to the attractiveness of an area, which is an important factor in attracting inward investment, and help reduce the affects of climate change.

Each time a business plants a tree we will place a plaque with the company’s name and details on it.

With the help of a tree consultant we will advise the businesses on the best tree for the area. Once the trees are chosen the company will receive a certificate detailing the tree that they have planted.

If residents or groups wish to adopt a tree they may do so. They can choose the number of trees they plant from one upwards. They will also have a plaque which they can dedicate to someone special or simply have their names on it. A limited number or words will apply.

Further information

For further information on the scheme or how to adopt a tree please contact:

Corinne Hibberd, Initiatives Manager
Phone: 020 8496 3000
Email: corinne.hibberd@walthamforest.gov.uk

This project is designed to introduce a new way of maintaining flower beds around the borough in a bid to make the borough a cleaner and greener place to live and work and contribute to addressing the effects of climate change.

More than a million species in the world are in danger from a warmer planet - including many of the UK’s birds and other creatures expected to lose feeding and breeding grounds - as warmer, drier summers and wetter, stormier winters become more common.

Experts have long warned that nature reserves will not help protect threatened species because habitats will shift with the weather. Now they are appealing to gardeners and anyone else that can help.

Every garden or planted area is a habitat for wildlife. Global warming is already causing problems for wildlife as the plants, flowers and insects that many animals and birds feed on and nest in are shifting their habitat and changing breeding patterns.

Flowers and plants are a key element of our countryside, but they also have a major part to play in urban areas. Flowers and plants in parks and other open spaces, or lining the sides of our streets, railways and rivers are of great importance to people, particularly in residential areas.They can also provide valuable habitats and food sources for wildlife and improve the air we breathe.

The aim of the scheme is to encourage local faith groups, girl guides/scout groups, or other groups and schools to help us replant and maintain flower beds around the borough. Adopt a flower bed scheme is part of our climate change programme: it will support the local community, and take practical steps to tackle global warming.

By replanting more flower beds it will help to address some of the problems of climate change while bringing benefits to local communities and conserving biodiversity. Planting flowers can help slow down climate change because plants absorb carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. When plants “breathe” in, they absorb carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. Research has shown though, that not only do plants absorb carbon dioxide, they can also absorb other pollutants from the air, such as smoke and chemical fumes given off by plastics and car fumes etc. Plants play an important part in reducing the amount of CO2 released into the environment so by planting more flowers it will help manage these increasing levels.

Objectives of the project

The objective of the project is to introduce a new and efficient way of planting flower beds in the borough. This will be done by seeking local community groups and faith groups to adopt flower beds that are in need of planting and maintenance.

• Priority will be given to flower beds that are not currently planted or are prone to littering.
• Areas around factories and industrial estates will also be looked at.
• Parks and playgrounds will also be considered to see if more flowers can be planted to create a more pleasant area and also attract wildlife.
• This will all act as a positive step towards addressing the issues of climate change and a step toward improving local collaboration and partnership.

How it will work?

The scope of the project is to get local community groups to adopt and maintain flower beds in the borough. They will be asked to plant and maintain one flower bed each for the year.

This will make the borough a safer, cleaner and greener environment for all the residents, workers and wildlife and do a small bit to help the battle of climate change.

The Council will supply the necessary tools as a gift for agreeing to adopt the flower beds and will also provide some of the plants. The voluntary groups will be responsible for planting, weeding, litter picking and other general maintenance of their adopted flower bed. This will make a real difference to the attractiveness of an area, which is an important factor in attracting inward investment, and help reduce the affects of climate change.

Each adopted flower bed will have a plaque put up with the organisations name and details on it, highlighting that they have adopted the bed and maintain it.

With the help of Green Spaces consultants we will advise the organisations on the best plants and flowers for their bed and how to plant and maintain them.

Further information

For further information on the scheme or how to adopt a flower bed please contact:

Corinne Hibberd, Initiatives Manager
Phone: 020 8496 3000
Email: corinne.hibberd@walthamforest.gov.uk

Local Liberal Democrats have expressed their delight after Councillors backed their plans to put climate change awareness at the heart of the Council’s agenda.

The successful motion calls for a series of initiatives aimed at ‘greening’ Waltham Forest, including a borough-wide campaign to bring about a voluntary ban on free plastic shopping bags.

Your local Lib Dem councillors rejected a Labour amendment to the motion that removed our proposal for a ‘Climate Change Impact Assessment’ to be included in all reports produced for Council.  The ‘Climate Change Impact Assessment’ will make environmental considerations central to the work of the Council.

LOCAL COUNCILLOR Bob Belam FOCUS TEAM MEMBER said:

These simple but effective measures will make the way the Council works cheaper and more environmentally friendly”.

 2007/2263/TC 

 Type of Application  

Replacement of BT payphone kiosk.  

Telecommunications/prior determination/demolition 

Land outside 282-284 Chingford Road Walthamstow London E17 5AL   

NOTE: This application is for Prior Approval which means that it must be determined within 56 days.  

2007/2273   

Type of Application 

Full planning  

Erection of single storey side extension. Loft conversion with rear dormer window and alteration from hip to gable end. 

41 Farnan Avenue Walthamstow London E17 4NQ  

2007/2278   

Type of Application  

Full planning  

Conversion of dwelling to form 2×2 bed flats.   

  50 Chingford Road Walthamstow London E17 4PJ     

There are currently 7 organisations that have joined the community toilet scheme in Walthamstow that allow members of the public to have access to their toilet facilities.

Where are the toilets?

Zig Zag Cafe, 366 Forest Road, Walthamstow E17 5JF

Facilities

• Disabled - no
• Baby Changing - no

Opening times

Children up to 8pm
11am-11pm Monday-Friday
8am-11pm Saturday
12noon-10.30pm Sunday

College Arms, 807 Forest Road, Walthamstow E17

Facilities

• Disabled - yes
• Baby Changing - no

Opening times

11am-11pm Sunday-Thursday
11am-12midnight Friday-Saturday

The Coppermill, 205 Coppermill Lane, Walthamstow E17 7HF

Facilities

• Disabled - no
• Baby Changing - no

Opening times

11am-11pm Sunday-Thursday
11am-12.30pm Friday-Saturday

The Woodman Public House, 150 Highams Place, Walthamstow E17 6DD

Facilities

• Disabled - no
• Baby Changing - no

Opening times

Cock Tavern, 67 High Street, Walthamstow E17 6DD

Facilities

• Disabled - no
• Baby Changing - no

Opening times

10am-11pm Monday-Thursday
11am-2am Friday-Saturday
11am-12noon Sunday

Walthamstow Library, High Street, Walthamstow E17 7JN

Facilities

• Disabled - yes
• Baby changing - yes

Opening times and location

Information on Walthamstow Library opening times and location

McDonalds, 258-260 Hoe Street, Walthamstow, E17 3AX

Facilities

• Disabled -yes
• Baby changing -yes

2007/2209/CLP    

Type of Application

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness 

Application for a certificate of lawfulness for a proposed development. Room in the roof involving installation of rear dormer window.   

14 Fulbourne Road Walthamstow E17 4EG

2007/0862 

 Application Type:  

Full planning  

232 Chingford Road Walthamstow London E17 5AL   

 Description:  

Change of use from retail (use class A1) to hot food takeaway (use class A5) and installation of a new shopfront. Erection of single storey rear extension as shown by drawing numbers 1209-3 received on 2nd May 2007, 1209-3 received on 23rd July 2007 & 1209-2A received on 28th September 2007. (Amended description).  

Decision:  Approved with conditions informatives on 29/11/2007  

The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.  No cooking shall be carried out on the premises prior to the installation of a suitable extract ventilation system (as shown on drawing number 1209-2A received on 28th September 2007), incorporating grease and odour filters, and terminating at a suitable height, which would normally be not less than the existing chimney height. The agreed extract ventilation system shall be permanently maintained so as to avoid detriment being caused to nearby occupiers by reason of noise or fumes.  The premises shall only open between 11am and 10pm on Monday to Saturdays inclusive and not at all on a Sunday.  The materials to be used on the extension shall match as closely as possible, in type, colour and texture, those on the existing building.    

2007/1930  

Application Type:  

Full planning  

208 St Johns Road Walthamstow London E17 4JN

Description:  1) Erection of single storey rear extension and loft conversion with rear dormer window. 2) Conversion of property into two self-contained flats (1×2 bed, 1×3 bed) as shown by drawing numbers SJR 01 & SJR 02 received on 1st October 2007.  

Decision:  Approved with conditions informatives on 28/11/2007  

The materials to be used shall match as closely as possible, in type, colour and texture, those on the existing dwelling.  The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.  The bottom half of the first floor kitchen window shall contain obscure glazing only and shall be of a fixed type. Details shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and the agreed details implemented prior to the occupation of the first floor flat and thereafter permanently retained in the agreed form.  The roof area of the single storey rear extension hereby permitted shall not be used as a balcony, roof garden or similar amenity area without the prior written consent of the Local Planning Authority.    

2007/2018/ADV  

Application Type:  Advertisement  

Outside 53-55 Billet Road Walthamstow London E17 5DL    Description:  

Application for display of advertisement on bus passenger shelter as shown on drawing 8136 and site location plan received on the 4th October 2007.    

  Decision:  Refused on 29/11/2007 

The proposed development would prevent the implementation of a planned new cycle route along this section of Billet Road. It would therefore be contrary to the provisions of policy TSP5 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan - First Review (2006).  

 2007/2154/CLP

Type of Application

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulnessAn application for a certificate of lawfulness for a proposed development - Formation of room in the roof involving installation of rear dormer window.

42 Empress Avenue Chingford London E4 8SR  

2007/2167

Type of Application

Full planning Conversion of ground floor shop into residential (2x studio flat) involving erection of ground floor rear extension.

96 Chingford Road Walthamstow London E17 4PJ

 2007/2169

Type of Application

Full planning Loft conversion with rear dormer window to first floor flat. 

First Floor Flat 2 20 Thorpe Road Walthamstow London E17 4LA  

The StreetWatchers Scheme was originally suggested by the Citizens jury, held during November 1998 ,as a way of involving local people more closely with the work of, the Council.Local authorities are under increasing pressure to develop and maintain services with ever decreasing resources. Our Street Services Division touches the lives of every resident in Waltham Forest whether through refuse collection, highway maintenance, public lighting, parking, road safety and parks etc.With such a wide range of services to provide it is impossible for us to identify every problem as soon as they arise. We welcome the ‘eyes’ of StreetWatchers to report matters affecting their environmentThe idea of the scheme is for unpaid volunteer residents, as they go about their daily routine, to assist the Council in noting any highway defects such as potholes in the road, knocked down bollards, defective street lamp columns, overhanging vegetation, fly tipping, dog fouling etc. they feel should be reported and may need repair or action.These are then reported, via the the Councils call centre, and logged on a central database system. The report is allocated to the appropriate section and officer who investigates the issue and if necessary arranges for works to be carried out.This scheme gives residents the opportunity to play a key role and have a voice, working in partnership with the Council, to make OUR community a much better, safer and cleaner place to live.

Care for YOUR environment?

Join a growing band of civic-minded Waltham Forest residents working with the Council to enable us to continually improve delivery of services relating to the Street Scene by becoming a StreetWatcher volunteer today.For further information about the StreetWatcher scheme contact:Street Services
Environment and Regeneration
Low Hall
Argall Avenue
London E10 7ASTel 020 8496 3000
Fax 020 8521 3577
Email wfdirect@walthamforest.gov.uk

 Planning application on behalf of Goals Soccer Centres PLC

2007/1997 

Construction of new sports facility comprising 10 floodlit all weather sports pitches, new pavilion and alterations to car park.

Following a meeting and site visit with Lichfield Planning, an officer from LBWF planning department and Cllr Bob Belam, it was agreed that in order to take the plans forward a public meeting should be called involving residents from the surrounding roads.

As soon as a date is found we the Councillors of Chapel End will ensure you are invited.

Every household in the UK produces an average of 50kg extra waste over Christmas, and in Waltham Forest we are committed to recycling as much of this as possible.

Collection days
Christmas tree recycling
Cardboard recycling
Wrapping paper recycling
Suspension of bulky waste collections 

Christmas collections of rubbish and recycling

Rubbish, recycling, green waste and trade waste collections will be affected by the Christmas and New Year bank holidays.

Christmas tree recycling

If you choose a real Christmas tree this year, you can recycle it in three ways:         

Take it to a recycling centre:
Gateway Road, E10
Kings Road, E4
South Access Road, E17         

In your green waste collection
Cut it up and put it in your brown garden waste bin, if you have one.          

Request a Christmas Tree Collection
Book online or call 020 8496 3000 by Sunday 6 January to request a free collection. Trees will be collected between Monday 7 January and Friday 18 January.

Cardboard recycling

At Christmas many of us will have much more cardboard than usual. Make sure you recycle yours:         

Take it to a recycling centre:
Gateway Road, E10
Kings Road, E4
South Access Road, E17         

Flatten, fold or cut it to fit in your black recycling box o          Request a Christmas Cardboard Collection
Book online or call 020 8496 3000         

Request your collection by Friday 28 December for a collection by Friday 4 January         

Request your collection by Sunday 6 January for a collection by Friday 11 January

Wrapping paper recycling

Paper gift wrap can be recycled in your black recycling box. Cellophane wrapping cannot be “collected for recycling” and should be put in your wheeled refuse bin.

You can also recycle paper gift wrap at the reuse and recycling centres at Gateway Road in Leyton , Kings Road in Chingford , South Access Road in Walthamstow , and several mini recycling sites .

Suspension of bulky waste collections

Each year, the special collection service for bulky household waste is suspended over Christmas. The last booking date is Friday 14 December, and the last collections will take place in the week beginning Monday 17 December. Bookings will start again on Monday 31 December for collections in the week beginning Monday 7 January. During this period residents can use the reuse and recycling centres at Gateway Road in Leyton , Kings Road in Chingford and South Access Road in Walthamstow 

The Environment department has made an extra effort to clear up leaves this Autumn.

However the way in which the weather has played a part this year has meant that leaves have fallen in large numbers on one day, and few the next day.

This has given the appearance that roads have not been swept.

The service has fallen down by not clearing away the grey sacks that have been left by the kerbside.

For this we apologise

 2007/1763  

Application Type:  

Full planning  

8 Rushbrook Crescent Walthamstow London E17 5BZ  

  Erection of single storey rear extension and formation of a room in the roof involving installation of rear dormer as shown on drawing nos RUSHBROOKCRESCENT-8-01 Rev A to 05 Rev A received on 14 August 2007. 

 Decision: Refused on 13/11/2007 

The proposed rear dormer is considered unacceptably bulky and therefore detrimental to the appearance of the area and contrary to the provisions of Policies BHE1, BHE2 and PSC5 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan (2006) and Supplementary Planning Guidance Note No 4.  The proposed rear extension would unacceptably impact upon the daylight and outlook of the rear windows of the adjoining property at 6 Rushbrook Crescent to the detriment of the amenity of its occupiers and contrary to the provisions of policy BHE 3 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan (2006).   

  2007/1799  

Application Type:  

Full planning  

31 Penrhyn Avenue Walthamstow London E17 5DA   

 Erection of new two storey, three bedroom dwellinghouse at side as shown by drawing numbers 2420/01 & 2420/02 received on 21st September 2007.   

Decision:  Refused on 13/11/2007 

The proposal constitutes an overdevelopment of a limited site, incompatible with the character of the wider area and represents a cramped sub standard form of development with unsatisfactory usable private amenity open space, the third bedroom being sub standard in relation to size and there being insufficient provision for off street parking. The proposal would be contrary to policies BHE1, BHE3, TSP17, PSC1 & PSC2 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan (2006).   The proposal would have a detrimental impact upon the amenity of adjoining occupiers by reason of loss of privacy and general outlook occasioned by the additional bulk, poor design and proximity of the proposed dwelling to the rear boundary. The proposal would be contrary to policies BHE1, BHE3, PSC1 & PSC3 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan (2006).

2007/2032/CLP  

Type of Application 

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness 

An application for a certificate of lawfulness for a proposed development - Room in roof involving rear dormer window.  

1 Northbank Road Walthamstow London E17 4JY  

2007/2074  

Type of Application 

Full planning 

Redevelopment of petrol station. Demolition of existing structure and erection of single storey fore court building involving installation of new pumps and bollards, canopy, new covered compound, air conditioning unit/refrigeration plan, air water unit, new service bay, ATM cash machine and new car parking area. 

Walthamstow Service Station

817 Forest Road Walthamstow London E17 0DN  

c/o agent  Somerfield Stores Ltd           

2007/1875/CLP    Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness 

 27 Wadham Avenue Walthamstow London E17 4HS  

2007/1727/CLP

 Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness

71 Kenilworth AvenueWalthamstowLondon E17 4PD

Erection of a second storey rear extension involving the installationof a room in the roof with rear dormer window as shown in drawingsnumbered 1301 sheet 1, 1301 sheet 2, 1301 sheet 3 and 1301sheet

Decision: Approved on 05/11/2007

The proposal constitutes lawful permitted development as it accordswith the provisions of Schedule 2, Part 1, Class B of the Town andCountry Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995;The application proposes extension of the existing roof to a volumebelow 40 cubic metres and the extension would not exceed thehighest part of the existing roof or extend beyond the plane of anyexisting roof slope which fronts any highway. 

2007/1728

Full planning1

53-155 Wadham RoadWalthamstowLondonE17 4HU  

Conversion of ground floor offices into residential (3×1 bed)self-contained flats. Alteration to front and rear elevations as shownby drawing numbers 70311-21, 70311-22, 70311-23, 70311-24 &70311-25

Decision: Refused on 06/11/2007

The proposal is considered to be out of character and anoverdevelopment of a limited site in particular reference to theproposed rear residential unit which would provide a sub-standardform of accommodation in relation to general outlook and access.This would be to the detriment of future occupiers of thedevelopment. The proposal would be contrary to policies BHE1 &PSC1 of the adopted Waltham Forest Unitary Development Plan2006. 

2007/1731

Full planning

20 Sturge Avenue Walthamstow LondonE17 4LQ 

 Erection of two-storey building comprising 4 x1-bed self-containedflats as shown on drawing 337-01B  

Decision: Refused on 07/11/2007

The proposed 2-storey rear projection, by virtue of its overall size,bulk, position and design, would be an over-bearing andun-neighbourly development that would adversly affect theamenities of occupiers of adjacent properties, contrary to policiesBHE1 and BHE3 of the adopted Waltham Forest UnitaryDeveloopment Plan (2006).The design of the front elevation does not complement the streetscene and would be detrimental to the visual amenities of the area,contrary to policies SP1 and BHE1 of the adopted Waltham ForestUnitary Development Plan (2006).The proposal does not make provision for secure cycle storage inaccordance with policy TSP5 and Appendix 2 of the adoptedWaltham Forest Unitary Development Plan (2006). 

2007/1831

Full planning

323 Fulbourne Road Walthamstow LondonE17 4HL 

Conversion of property into 2 self contained flats (1×2 bed &1×1bed) as shown by drawing number 3788/1

Decision: Approved with conditions informatives on 07/11/2007The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.

2007/1997 

Full Planning 

Construction of new sports facility comprising 10 floodlit all weather sports pitches, new pavilion and alterations to car park.  

 Peter May Sports Centre 135 Wadham Road Walthamstow

London E17 4HR   

2007/2000

 Full planning

 Change of use of ground floor shop from retail (use class A1) to restaurant/take away (use class A3/A5). Installation of extract flue system at rear.

325 Chingford Road Walthamstow London E17 5AE 

  2007/2018/ADV

Advertisement 

Application for display of advertisement on bus passenger shelter.  

Outside 53-55 Billet Road Walthamstow London E17 5DL      

Highway maintenance work in Chingford Road (between the Crooked Billet Roundabout and Morrison Avenue) is due to start on 12^th November 2007.  This will involve relaying kerbs and reconstructing a number of the footways, and then early next year the road itself will be resurfaced. 

The majority of the kerb and footway work will be carried out on weekdays between 9.30am and 3.30pm.  However, some Saturday working may also be required.  Weather permitting, the footway work will finish towards the end of February 2008.

The road resurfacing will last for up to two weeks. This will take place overnight in March 2008, when I will write to you again, to let you of know of the arrangements for this particular part of the works. 

In the meantime, please note that in order to carry out the footway works in a safe and efficient manner it will be necessary to exclude parked cars from the immediate working area.  Your help in not parking in the affected areas would be appreciated. 

We will try to keep inconvenience to a minimum. However, if during the works you require any further information, or have any questions please contact me on the number below.  Alternatively please feel free to send me an e-mail at the address below. 

2007/1052

Full planning

617a Forest Road, Walthamstow E17 4NE

Change of use of ground floor shop from retail shop (use class A1) to restaurant/takeaway (use A3/A5 )

Decision Approved with conditions informatives 31/10/2007 

 2007/1875/CLP

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness

27 Wadham Avenue, Walthamstow E17 4HS

Formation of a room in the roof involving installation of a rear dormer window

Decision Approved on 31/10/2007 

2007/1943

Full planning

Erection of 4 bedroom, 2 storey dwelling house incorporating a room in the roof with rear dormer

Land adjacent 42 & part of 42 Chaucer Road, Walthamstow E17 4BE

2007/1976

Full planning

Formation of vehicle access

184 Winchester Road Chingford E4 9JP

2007/1597

Full planning

135 St Johns Road, Walthamstow E17 4JH

Erection of single storey rear extension and conversion of dwellinghouse into two self-contained flats (2×2 bed)

Decision Approved with conditions 14/10/2007

2007/1889

Full Planning

Erection of part single, part two-storey rear extension, formation of two bedroom self-contained flat on first floor and alterations to shopfront to form entrance to flat

157 Wadham Road, Walthamstow E17

2007/1920

Full Planning

1)    Demolition of side garage and erection of two story building to form 1×3 bed dwellinghouse including room in roof with rear dormer window.

2)    Erection of single storey rear extension to existing house

1 Kenilworth Avenue, Walthamstow E17 4PD

2007/1930

Full Planning

1)    Erection of single storey rear extension and loft conversion with rear dormer window.

2)    Conversion of property into two self-contained flats (1×2 bed, 1×3 bed)

208 St Johns Road, Walthamstow E17 4JN

 There are a number of vacancies for School Patrols. If you are interested contact David at the address below

1 St Marys RC Station Rd/Outside Bull & Crown PH, E4

David Garrod
Accident Prevention Officer
London Borough of Waltham Forest
020 8496 6009

2007/1597

Full planning

109 Kenilworth Avenue Walthamstow E17 4PA

Erection of single storey rear extension

Decision Approved with conditions 11/10/2007

2007/1610

Full planning

22 Woodend Road Walthamstow E17 4JS

Erection of part single, part two storey rear extension

Decision Approved with conditions 16/10/2007

2007/1630/CLP

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness

132 Winchester Road Highams Park E4 9JP

An application for a certificate of lawfulness for a proposed use- erection of a single storey rear extension

Decision Approved on 10/10/2007

 2007/1799

Full Planning

Erection of new two storey, three bedroom dwelling house at side.

31 Penrhyn Avenue Walthamstow E17 5DA

2007/1817

Full Planning

Installation of new shop front and roller shutter.

14 Chingford Road Walthamstow E17 4PJ

2007/1831

Full Planning

Conversion of property into 2 self contained flats (1×2 bed & 1×1 bed).

323 Fulbourne Road Walthamstow E17 4HL

2007/1841

Full Planning

Loft conversion with rear dormer window.

18 Wadham Avenue Walthamstow E17 4HT

2007/1847

Full Planning

Erection single storey rear extension.

273 Fulbourne Road Walthamstow E17

2007/1865

Full Planning

Conversion of dwelling house into 2 self contained flats (2×2 bed).

3 Kingsley Road Walthamstow E17 4AU

2007/1875/CLP

Section 192 proposed certificate of lawfulness

An application for a certificate of lawfulness for a proposed development – formation of a room in the roof, involving the installation of a rear dormer window

27 Wadham Avenue Walthamstow E17 4HS

2007/1882

Full Planning

Addition to existing use as recording studio to include ancillary entertainment and social events

Prestige House 26 Clifford Road Walthamstow E17 4JE

In 2008 works will begin to improve the road layout around Hoe Street in Walthamstow Town Centre. The works will be carried out by Waltham Forest Council, with funding from Transport for London (TfL).

An assessment of the existing traffic conditions in the area by the Council and TfL has shown that buses experience considerable delays as a result of the current layout. The area could also be improved for other road users and pedestrians.

The Council has developed a new design for the road layout in the area to reduce delays for vehicles and improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. This will improve access to Walthamstow Central Station and the Bus Station.

The Council has listened to views from representatives of local cyclists, people with disabilities, pedestrians, taxis and other groups. The Centre for Cycling Excellence at TfL provided advice to ensure the new scheme balances the needs of cyclists with other road users.

The new layout, shown in the plan, will include the following improvements:

• More cycle lanes will be created to allow cyclists a safer journey, and improve access to the Bike Shed in Station Approach.
• New Toucan crossings will be installed for use by both pedestrians and cyclists.
• The area for pedestrians will be increased. Footpaths will be made wider and a new pedestrian area will be created between Selborne Road and Station Approach on the existing northbound bridge.
• The existing southbound bridge will take two-way traffic.
• Selborne Road and Station Approach will become signalised t-junctions with Hoe Street.
• Traffic will be able to turn right from Hoe Street directly into Selborne Road, rather than go through several junctions as at present.
• Improved coordination between all traffic lights in the town centre will allow traffic to flow more evenly.
• The area will benefit from new planters and improved street lighting.

The design for the new traffic scheme has been checked for safety by an independent road safety audit team. Further design work is currently underway, and subject to approvals by Transport for London, construction will begin early in 2008.

For comments or suggestions email traffic.scheme@walthamforest.gov.uk or call Waltham Forest Direct on 020 8496 3000. You can view the large scale plans of the scheme at Chingford Municipal Offices, The Ridgeway, E4 6PS.

Please see below a full list of public lighting concrete column replacement programme to be carried out. Work starts November 5th and will be complete by February 2008

Roads in Chapel End E17

Lib Dem Parliamentary Culture, Media and Sport Spokesman, Don Foster MP, lends his support to the Waltham Forest Cultural Consultation

Your local Liberal Democrats have announced the launch of a consultation into the running of cultural services in the borough.

In response to complaints about the council’s actions regarding local cultural services such as Walthamstow Library, Vestry House and William Morris Gallery, Cllr John Macklin said that the Lib Dems were keen to see greater resident input into the running of such vital local facilities.

Cllr Macklin said: “The future of our local cultural services has been of great concern to residents. We want to hear their views on how the management of such facilities could be improved”.
 

2007/1501

Full planning

8 Penrhyn Grove Walthamstow E17 5DE

Erection of single story rear extension

Decision Approved with conditions on 03/10/07

2007/1526

Full planning

104 Forest View Road Walthamstow E17 4EL

Erection of single story rear extension

 Decision Approved with conditions on 03/10/07 

2007/1572/ADV

Advertisement

Land outside 197 Chingford Road Walthamstow E17 5AB

Installation of advertisement panel on payphone kiosk

 Decision Refused on 03/10/07 

2007/1573/ADV

  Land outside 282-284 Chingford Road Walthamstow E17 5AL

Installation of advertisement panel on payphone kiosk

 Decision Approved conditionally on 03/10/07    

2007/1731

Erection of two-story building comprising four self-contained flats

20 Sturge Avenue, Walthamstow E17 4LQ

2007/1763

Demolition of conservatory, erection of single story rear extension and formation of a room in the roof involving installation of rear dormer window

8 Rushbrook Crescent Walthamstow E17 5BZ

During October a number of Council services will be re-locating to new and improved offices at Sycamore House in the Waltham Forest Town Hall complex on Forest Road, Walthamstow.

The moves will make these services available to all Waltham Forest residents from a central location. The newly refurbished offices will provide a more welcoming and comfortable environment for visitors and staff, and the improved facilities will mean we can offer better customer service to residents.

From Monday 15 October, Development Control, Building Control, Transport and Planning services will be located at Sycamore House, not Chingford Municipal Offices.

From Monday 22 October, Trading Standards, Food and Safety, Licensing, and Environmental Health will be located at Sycamore House, not 154 Blackhorse Road.

Residents should note that from the end of October, there will be no Council services operating from Chingford Municipal Offices, or 157 Blackhorse Road.

Leave your mark on the environment by participating in the Council’s Adopt a Tree Scheme and helping make Waltham Forest greener than ever before.

The initiative was launched this week (Wednesday) when the first adopted tree was planted in Selbourne Walk, Walthamstow. The Council hopes it will help make Waltham Forest one of the greenest boroughs in London and contribute towards reducing the effects of climate change.  

Estate agents Ellis & Co (formerly Adam Kennedy) were the first business to sign up to the scheme and have agreed to adopt twelve trees in the first year.

Cllr Bob Belam, Cabinet Member for Environment said, The Adopt a Tree scheme shows this Council is commited to making Waltham Forest a greener and more pleasant place to live and reducing the impact of climate change.

“We are very proud of our parks and open spaces and anyone who wants to take part in this scheme should contact us to find out more details.”

It costs £150 to adopt each tree and each comes with a commemorative plaque which can be dedicated to anyone the adopter chooses. People who have no gardening skill whatsoever need not be discourage from adopting a tree as Council staff will look after it.

Businesses are asked to adopt 12 trees a year while individual residents can adopt as many or as few as they wish.

The adopt a tree scheme supports other work the council is doing to tackle climate change. This includes the production of a climate change strategy and the introduction of green parking charges designed to reduce car emissions in the borough.

To find out more information about how to adopt a tree or a flower bed, contact Corinne Hibberd, Initiatives Manager, on 020 8496 3000 or corinne.hibberd@walthamforest.gov.uk or visit: www.walthamforest.gov.uk/adopt-a-tree-scheme

“Since compulsory recycling began on 10 September 2007 there has been an overwhelming response from residents.  I have been astonished by the support which  the scheme has received and early indications are that the volume of waste that residents are recycling has already increased by almost 20%.

“We have had thousands of requests for new recycling bins and there are four dedicated vehicles delivering the extra recycling boxes each day. I have always publicly stated that both residents and the Council will need time to adjust to compulsory recycling and it was never our intention to immediately monitor the compulsory element.

“We want to help people to recycle - I’ve said many times before that it is not our intention to fine residents and we will only consider doing so after persistent refusal to recycle.”

Thousands of people descended on Leytonstone to enjoy this year’s sixth annual Car Free Day event on Sunday.  The event was bigger and better than ever.  Visitors got to enjoy live bands, performers, cycling displays and a children’s fun fair.  The streets were filled with stalls and displays including a French and Continental market.

The artificial grass at the top of Church Lane outside the Library looked fantastic and
incorporated an “International Food Court” around it - people were able to buy food and drink and sit outside to enjoy it in what is normally a fairly busy road.

The aim of Car Free Day is that one-day a year some of the borough’s Town Centres become traffic-free zones and everyone gets to leave the car behind.

Waltham Forest Council’s Cabinet member for Environment Cllr Bob Belam, said: “Car Free day is a fun, community event, which I hope will raise awareness of the health and environmental benefits of sustainable living and sustainable transport.”

“This year we highlighted the different transport modes available and encouraged
People to reduce their car use. 234 people pledged to swap at least one car journey a week for an alternative mode of transport such as walking, cycling or public transport.”

This year adults and children had the opportunity to try out bikes - everything from a Penny Farthing to a recumbent tricycle. There was a unicycle as well as a mountain bike aerial display show and live music from Imagination and The Beat.

The Council is planning on rewarding drivers in the borough who have eco-friendly cars with cheaper car parking. The Green Parking scheme comes into place on 1st of October with residents who have low emission, electric, hybrid or cars converted to run on LPG benefiting from a 50% discount on the cost of their CPZ permit.

The Council has realised that cars are one of  the contributors to rising emissions of CO2 in the borough and by reducing these emissions it will help in tackling climate change.

A significant proportion of residents may be unaffected by the changes as cars in the average range would continue to be charged at the current rates (£45 for the first, £80 for the second and £105 for the third and subsequent permits at each household). However, residents with high emission vehicles like 4×4s and larger cars with engines of 2,001cc or more may be subject to a 100% increase. The vehicles most affected will be those with a CO2 emission over 185 g/km or if registered before
1st March 2001and being over 2,000cc.

Councillor Bob Belam, Environmental Services said: “Waltham Forest has committed itself to becoming one of the greenest boroughs in Greater London.  Green parking is one of many steps we are taking that will make a direct impact on climate change.
“We have identified cheaper parking as a positive way to reward drivers that help cut emissions. The Council estimates the number of low emission vehicles could go up by between two and five per cent as a result of green parking scheme.”

Waltham Forest Council are proud to announce Leytonstone United Free Church and Kings Florists (Chingford) as the first two groups to adopt a flower bed in the Councils new Adopt a Flower Bed scheme.

As a gift of goodwill the Council have supplied both groups with the necessary tools to keep the flower beds in good condition and have also provided some of the plants.  This project has been designed to get local involvement in helping to brighten up the borough and make it a cleaner and greener place to live and work.  It is also an opportunity for residents to help contribute in addressing the effects of climate change.

In agreeing to adopt a flower bed these local green heroes have volunteered to be responsible for the general maintenance of the flower bed, which includes planting, weeding and removing litter.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Bob Belam said “I think this is a wonderful idea. I am hopeful that more community groups get involved in this fun activity and help brighten up the borough.  Those who adopt a flower bed will have a plaque displaying their name and details next to the garden.”
 
Waltham Forest has also recently developed the adopt-a-tree programme to increase the number of trees in the borough in an effort to make it one of the greenest boroughs in Greater London. The estate agents Ellis and Co, formerly Adam Kennedy are the first company to adopt one tree a month for a year.
 
The Council has numerous locations available around the borough and is looking for more people to enjoy flower power in Waltham Forest. If you would like to adopt a flower bed or a tree contact: Corinne Hibberd at corinne.hibberd@walthamforest.gov.uk

Residents and Councillors have voted to spend £2k of the annual community fund on an anti litter campaign to raise awareness in reducing litter.

The area targeted for the campaign is Wood Street Junction to Bell Corner and down to Lloyd Park and from the Bell Corner to Chingford Road to Sir George Monoux College and the side roads bordering off Chingford Road.  These are the main areas of concern and is due to the high concentration of fast food outlets and general litter in this area.

Walthamstow West Community Council and Waltham Forest Environmental Services jointly invited Sir George Monoux College and Waltham Forest College to collaborate in producing an anti-litter campaign DVD.  Five students in their spare time have produced and edited a 2-minute anti litter advert  called “drop the litter, the price is bitter” which was targeted at 16-25 year olds. The students with the help of the Councils multi-media department came up with the ideas for the advert and directed, filmed and edited the production.

Cllr Bob Belam, Cabinet member for the Environment said, “”We are delighted with the outcome of the Anti-litter DVD. Projects like this are made all the more worthwhile with fresh ideas from creative students. The Council would like to thank the students for their commitment, dedication and enthusiasm in producing this DVD. The anti litter campaign message will be seen by most new students and I believe it will help in making Waltham Forest a cleaner and greener place.”

Highways enforcement teams will be patrolling the area in the future to make sure the area is kept clean. The patrols will be carried out in partnership with the police safer neighbourhood teams, who are authorised to issue fixed penalty notices for littering on the Councils behalf.

DON’T DUMP IT!

The Council will provide three free special collections per year to each domestic household. The year runs from 1st April to 31st March. Further collections can be provided at a cost starting at £23.50 (£20.00 plus VAT). All collections carried out within ten working days.
Examples of what can be collected on a special collection:
o   up to 10 light sacks of household or
o   garden waste or
o   a 3-piece suite or
o   a dining room suite (table and 4 chairs) or
o   1 double, or 2 single wardrobes or
o   a bed and mattress
o   one item of white goods (fridge/cooker/ washing machine/dishwasher/spin dryer/freezer etc or similar appliance)
This service is available for most types of household items but does not include fixtures and fittings, carpets, construction waste (bricks, rubble, concrete,patio slabs etc) or garden fixtures (sheds, garages, fencing etc)
To request a Special Collection
Contact Waltham Forest Direct 020 8496 3000