Local democracy, services - Forum - Alexandra Park Neighbours2024-03-29T01:14:58Zhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/feed/category/Local%2Bdemocracy%252C%2B%2BservicesHaringey Council have announced their new Cabinethttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-council-have-announced-their-new-cabinet2022-05-25T12:09:16.000Z2022-05-25T12:09:16.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10514680101,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10514680101,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="10514680101?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a>There don't seem to be many changes in the makeup of the cabinet since before the election. Apparently 'Resident Services', which Seema Chandwani is in charge of, includes parking.</p>
<p>The Cabinet is as follows:</p>
<p>Cllr Peray Ahmet – The Leader of Haringey Council</p>
<p>Cllr Mike Hakata – The Deputy Leader of Haringey Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment and Transport</p>
<p>Cllr Zena Brabazon – Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families</p>
<p>Cllr Dana Carlin – Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Private Renters and Planning</p>
<p>Cllr Seema Chandwani – Cabinet Member for Tackling Inequality and Resident Services</p>
<p>Cllr Lucia das Neves – Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Wellbeing</p>
<p>Cllr Julie Davies – Cabinet Member for Communities & Civic Life</p>
<p>Cllr Ruth Gordon – Cabinet Member for House-Building, Placemaking and Development</p>
<p>Cllr Adam Jogee – Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Jobs and Community Cohesion</p>
<p>Cllr Sarah Williams – Cabinet Member for Finance and Local Investment</p></div>Getting a response from Haringey Councilhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/getting-a-response-from-haringey-council2022-05-17T11:15:33.000Z2022-05-17T11:15:33.000ZDiana Leathttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/DianaLeat<div><p>Does anyone know how to get a response/make a complaint to Haringey Council?</p><p>I have obviously tried the procedures on line but these don't cover my issue and/or get a response.</p><p>Grateful for any ideas.</p></div>Council electionshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/council-elections2022-05-08T11:03:34.000Z2022-05-08T11:03:34.000ZAlex Kinghttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AlexKing<div><p>The turnout in Alexandra Park Ward for this election has once again been the highest in the borough, which is an interesting comment on our engagement with local issues.</p>
<p>Alexandra was always the smallest ward in the borough (in population), which is one reason why it was proposed to abolish the ward. The boundary change has reduced the electorate by very little, and presumably has had no great effect on the election result. We now once more have a mixed-party representation after 2 sitting councillors stepped down following the boundary change to a 2-councillor ward. Last time we had a party mix it was also after sitting councillors stepped down.</p>
<p>After this election, mixed-party representation is now the majority in wards on this side of the borough. Labour has increased its majority on the council as a whole to 50-7.</p>
<p>So welcome to Sarah Elliott our new councillor, and we look forward to hearing from her on the various issues of concern in the ward in due course.</p></div>Don't forget to vote in the LOCAL ELECTIONS TODAY!!https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/don-t-forget-to-vote-in-the-local-elections-thursday-5-may2022-05-04T12:11:12.000Z2022-05-04T12:11:12.000ZSusie Holdenhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/SusieHolden<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10458897888,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}">Polling stations open from 7am to 10pm.<img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10458897888,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10458897888?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="590" /></a></p></div>A new buggy pusher on the perils of Haringey pavementshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/a-new-buggy-pusher-on-the-perils-of-haringey-pavements2022-02-25T11:47:42.000Z2022-02-25T11:47:42.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p>Are our local election candidates up to speed on these issues?</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/JackMaizels/status/1311614006214504448" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JackMaizels/status/1311614006214504448</a></p>
<p> </p></div>Locations of Polling Stationshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/locations-of-polling-stations2022-02-18T18:33:55.000Z2022-02-18T18:33:55.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p>We have received a notification relating to the local elections in May saying that our polling station will be on the (new) boundary of the ward with Muswell Hill ward, in the hall next to St. Andrew's Church. So instead of walking a few metres to a polling station on the Triangle - very convenient for people going to, or returning from, work - we would have to go much further in the other direction, up the steep hill of Alexandra Park Road N10. I wonder if this will deter people from voting - particularly those who are not able-bodied?!</p>
<p>There used to also be a polling station in AP Library - but I understand that the latter is being re-furbished, so is presumably not being used.</p>
<p>The info. sheet also mentions instructions for where to vote being included on the polling card - so maybe that will be different? I hope so!</p>
<p>Are other people being sent to inconvenient locations to vote?</p></div>Alexandra Ward to become Alexandra Park Ward, with just 2 councillors, on 5 Mayhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/alexandra-ward-to-become-alexandra-park-ward-with-just-2-councill2022-02-18T16:47:35.000Z2022-02-18T16:47:35.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10120049058,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10120049058,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10120049058?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="200" /></a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10120052468,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10120052468,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10120052468?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="300" /></a></p>
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<p>Alexandra Ward as it is at present, and the new Alexandra Park Ward with Fortis Green and Muswell Hill wards (the latter slightly reconfigured).</p>
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<p>Alexandra Park ward will be slightly smaller than the current ward – 3 or 4 roads which were at the Muswell Hill end of the ward have been moved to Fortis Green ward.</p>
<p>Why the changes? You may remember that back in 2019 the Local Government Boundary Commission reviewed the ward sizes in Haringey, because new developments in the east of the borough would increase the total size of the electorate. Each councillor has to represent an equivalent number of residents, and since the wards to the west of the East Coast mainline already had fewer residents relative to the rest, it was proposed to abolish two wards here - namely Alexandra and Fortis Green - and reconfigure Muswell Hill ward as MH north and south, creating extraordinary amoeboid shapes for these (see link below). Since the Council (endorsed by the LGBC) wanted to keep the current number of wards, each having 3 councillors, there was no other option than to abolish one or two.</p>
<p>The LGBC did point out, however, that they are dependent on submissions from those who know the areas concerned for the relevant facts. Many local residents objected to their scheme, presenting them with an alternative in which Alexandra Park and Muswell Hill wards would have 2 councillors rather than 3 (thanks to Cllr. Nick da Costa for suggesting that we propose 2-councillor wards - as he pointed out, there were several such wards in Haringey when the LGBC last did a review, in 1999). Result - <strong>the LGBC changed its mind</strong>! Their resulting choice for all three wards is similar to what we proposed. Here are extracts from their <a href="https://s3-eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/lgbce/Reviews/Greater%20London/Haringey/Final%20Recs/Haringey%20report%20web.pdf" target="_blank">final report</a>:</p>
<p style="margin-left:1.25cm;">"the approach proposed by local residents of the <strong>Alexandra Park area</strong> ... was supported by 58 residents proposing a two-councillor Alexandra ward, with many referring to an Alexandra Park Neighbours’ map... a great deal of evidence was provided which related to community identity and association to local services, facilities and events in the Alexandra Park area. In noting detailed comments about the use and management of the Albert Road recreation ground and the significance of Rhodes Avenue Primary School, the Alexandra Park School and Alexandra Palace to the local community, <strong>we are persuaded of the merits of the residents’ proposals.</strong>..<br /> 48 We recommend that instead of a uniform pattern of three-councillor wards, there should be two-councillor Alexandra Park and Bounds Green wards...</p>
<p style="margin-left:1.25cm;"><strong>Fortis Green and Muswell Hill</strong><br /> 49 There was considerable disparity in the proposals we received [<em>some favouring</em> <em>the creation of</em> <em>Muswell Hill East and West wards]</em> …<br /> the perception of a community preference for the retention of Fortis Green and Muswell Hill wards was evidenced by the substantial support for the Alexandra Park Neighbours’ scheme which placed, alongside their two-councillor Alexandra ward, a three-councillor Fortis Green ward and two-councillor Muswell Hill ward. ...Those wards would broadly reflect the current wards for those areas with the exception of the Priory Road area which we consider should form part of our Hornsey ward described below...</p>
<p style="margin-left:1.25cm;">59 Our final recommendations for this area provide for a three-councillor Fortis Green ward and two-councillor Muswell Hill ward ..."</p>
<p style="line-height:100%;margin-bottom:0cm;">Here are <a href="https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-ward-boundary-changes" target="_blank">some responses</a> on APN to the initial proposals, and <a href="https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/the-abolition-of-alexandra-ward-why-it-is-proposed-by-the-local-g" target="_blank">suggestions for a different scheme</a>.</p></div>Statutory Consultation last year on Parking charges : Response to your representations / objections (2020 Statutory Consultation 2)https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/statutory-consultation-last-year-on-parking-charges-response-to-y2021-07-09T17:27:48.000Z2021-07-09T17:27:48.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p><em>Those who responded to this consultation received the following email from Haringey Council:<br /></em></p>
<p>Dear Resident or Business,</p>
<p>Thanks for your feedback to our statutory consultation last year on revised parking and permit charges. The Council’s parking policy is linked to transport policies and Borough Plan objectives, which take into account Government guidance on environmental issues by including measures to improve air quality by reducing toxic emissions from transport which can be damaging to health. A further objective is to encourage more residents to take up less polluting forms of transport, including walking and cycling - and to use less polluting vehicles if they need to continue to own a car.</p>
<p>The Council is required to consider objections and representations received to the Statutory Consultation and then, to decide whether or not to proceed to implementation of measures. We have considered all views and objections in detail and we delayed making any final decision while considering how Covid related lockdowns and restrictions were impacting on travel and transport. The Council has now decided to implement most of the measures except for the 25% diesel surcharge on short term on-street parking and car parks. We are currently reconsidering this but while lockdowns were in place, we recognised the need to help support our town centres in their recovery from the impacts of the Covid lockdowns.</p>
<p>The Council has decided to go ahead with the majority of the proposed measures and summary details are set out below. You may recall that the measures originally proposed in last year’s consultation were:</p>
<ul>
<li>A £10 increase across all existing parking permit charge bands.</li>
<li>An £80 surcharge on all parking permits issued to diesel fuelled vehicles – including a 25% diesel surcharge on on-street and car park charges</li>
<li>A £50 surcharge on second and additional resident parking permits per household.</li>
<li>To limit permit account holders to the use of two daily visitor permits per day.</li>
<li>Increased charge for daily Visitor Permits in all Controlled Parking Zones to £4.</li>
<li>To introduce a free virtual residential parking permit for Disabled Blue Badge Holders for their home CPZ, replacing the existing Companion Badge.</li>
<li>To introduce a £20 administration fee on parking permit refunds except for visitor parking permits which will not be-refundable.</li>
</ul>
<p>Consultation respondents have tended to take an overview of the proposed measures and to comment accordingly, rather than selecting specific individual measures. Where individual measures have been focused on, it is the diesel surcharge which is most often objected to The wider theme of objections is that all the proposed charges are excessive, especially taking into account the economic uncertainty associated with the COVID situation. The main objections and the Council’s responses are summarised below. Full details are in the official report on the web – see link below</p>
<p><strong>Objection: Haringey should not be introducing these charges at the present time/ this is not the time to introduce these charges. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: Haringey has committed to improving air quality by introducing measures to encourage sustainable transport choices. Poor air quality has a serious impact on the health and wellbeing of the most vulnerable - including those with respiratory problems and chronic illnesses. Those who live or work near main roads are at particular risk of health problems caused by air pollution. We understand that many residents have been impacted economically by the Covid 19 pandemic, and that any increase in parking charges impact on those residents who own a car. However, we firmly believe that this is a time to promote measures that improve the health and well-being opportunities for all borough residents. </p>
<p><strong>Objection: Diesel surcharge is not in line with ULEZ and fails to acknowledge that modern diesel vehicles are less polluting than many petrol engine vehicles. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: Consideration was given to exempting Euro 6 diesel compliant vehicles from the proposed diesel surcharge and aligning the surcharge with the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) criteria. However, there are well documented concerns that real world performance of vehicles may not be as good as claimed by laboratory testing. While testing under euro certification is being modified to address this concern, the majority of Euro 6 compliant vehicles in circulation would have had their certification issued under the old testing methods. This makes it very difficult for us to rely on this certification to exempt Euro 6 from the diesel surcharge.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: £50 surcharge for second or more vehicles is unfair because many households, such as those with large families, need more than one vehicle. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: Currently, the Council allows individuals and households within CPZs to purchase as many parking permits as they require. However, it is important that the Council discourages multiple car ownership and achieves a less congested road network. This measure raises awareness of the environmental impact of multiple car ownership but does not restrict residents parking more than one vehicle. We hope that it will encourage residents to reconsider their transport options.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: 25% pay-to-park surcharge will unfairly impact those who need to drive to go shopping. It will also affect local shops / businesses and encourage more journeys to out-of-town shopping centres. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: Many vehicles using our on-street and car park facilities are diesel fuelled. It would be appropriate in normal circumstances to include short stay parking in any measures being proposed to improve air quality in the borough. However, the council recognises that this may not be the appropriate time to implement this proposal. This will also aid our town centres in their recovery from the impacts of the Covid pandemic.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Objection: The Council is only doing this to make money. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: When setting or reviewing parking charges the Council considers various issues including:</p>
<ul>
<li>The Council’s transport and wider policy objectives, statutory or legal requirements that may affect the setting of fees</li>
<li>car ownership patterns, the increasing demand for parking, traffic management issues, parking charges in other boroughs, cost of delivering the service</li>
<li>impact of charges on relevant stakeholders</li>
</ul>
<p>It should also be noted that Section 55 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 states that any income that is generated must be paid into the parking revenue account, and any surplus ring-fenced and invested back into road maintenance / highway improvements, concessionary fares, environmental improvements and to administer the Disabled Blue Badge parking scheme.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: The charges are unfair to those who cannot afford a newer car, which includes the poorest, elderly, and vulnerable / The charges are unfair to the poor and vulnerable</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Council response:</strong> Any change to parking fee structures will have an impact on residents. However, the permit charge will remain relatively low in proportion to the cost of running and maintaining a car. Average annual cost of car ownership and use is in the region of £3k. </p>
<p><strong>Objection: The charges are unfair to those who avoid using their cars, and often walk, cycle or use public transport. Unused cars do not pollute</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: The only practical tool that the Council can use to incentivise the use of more fuel-efficient cars is through the parking permit and short-term parking charging structures.</p>
<p> <strong>Objection: Unfair to charge residents living in a CPZ, while currently allowing outside cars to park freely. It is unfair and creates divisions in the community. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response:</strong> The Council reduced parking enforcement in CPZs to support NHS and key workers, as well as residents adversely effected by the Covid 19 crisis. Enforcement resumed on 6 July 2020.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: Unfair to residents who do not have driveways, and increased costs still do not guarantee a parking space near to home. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: In a CPZ the parking needs of residents and their visitors are prioritised. CPZs are designed so that the kerb space is managed effectively for the various user types, and to reduce commuter parking activity. This provides a greater opportunity for residents to park as close to their homes as possible.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: Letters were not sent to every household about the proposed charges, not every resident was given a chance to voice an opinion. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: It was not practical or cost effective to distribute letters to every household in the borough. The council is legally required to undertake a statutory consultation and advertise the appropriate Traffic Management Orders (TMOs) before implementing any changes to parking fees and charges. This means that the council must advertise the details of the proposals in local newspapers and the London Gazette. The council consulted statutory bodies such as the Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Bus Operators, Road Haulage Association and Freight Transport Association. Other stakeholders, such as cycling, environmental and disability groups were also notified and asked to give their views. The proposals were also advertised on the Council’s website - with web links to the TMOs. Notices were placed on street and within the council run car parks. We also sent a mailshot to over 54,000 permit holders. The proposals were also communicated on social media platforms. The Council went beyond the statutory requirement to notify stakeholders of proposals. </p>
<p><strong>Objection: I will not support the companion badge removal due to the risk of theft and damage caused to vehicles. The companion badge also provides the user to park freely across the borough. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council Response:</strong> The main purpose of the Companion Badge (permit) is to avoid the need for the Disabled Blue Badge to be displayed overnight when the risk of theft of the badge is highest. Many boroughs with similar schemes, have already replaced them with a free residential parking permit, which addresses the primary purpose of the concession and benefits all disabled badge holders while parked near their home. Any remaining unused time on companion badges will be refunded.</p>
<p><strong>Objection: we strongly object to no refund of scratch cards. I also object to the cap on using them. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Council response</strong>: Visitors’ permits are often purchased in large quantities because of their relatively low cost. Residents subsequently request a refund on unused permits or those expiring. As charges for those permits are relatively low, the cost of processing refunds often exceeds the value. The Council will be replacing the current scratch card (visitor) permits with virtual permits through the new IT system.</p>
<p>Both the full consultation report and the formal Council report can be found on the website. Please click on the link below to access the report which runs from pages 141 - 252</p>
<p><a href="https://www.minutes.haringey.gov.uk/documents/g9428/Public%20reports%20pack%2015th-Sep-2020%2018.30%20Cabinet.pdf?T=10">https://www.minutes.haringey.gov.uk/documents/g9428/Public%20reports%20pack%2015th-Sep-2020%2018.30%20Cabinet.pdf?T=10</a></p>
<p>The consultation report is also available on the <em>completed parking consultations</em> page of the website.</p>
<p>We thank all those who responded to the Statutory Consultation with objections or support. Your feedback and insights have been very helpful. </p>
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<p> </p></div>New Leader for Haringey Councilhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/new-leader-for-haringey-council2021-05-14T21:25:25.000Z2021-05-14T21:25:25.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}8930589676,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}8930589676,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="8930589676?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a>Cllr Joseph Ejiofor was ousted as leader of the Labour Group by Cllr Peray Ahmet, at the AGM of the Labour group on May 10. Cllr Mike Hakata is now deputy leader. The Ham&High has the <a href="https://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/peray-ahmet-ousts-joseph-ejiofor-as-haringey-leader-7963170?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=DM40334" target="_blank">details</a>.</p></div>** TODAY ** Public Meeting about the planned Low Traffic Neighbourhood in Bounds Greenhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/today-public-meeting-about-the-planned-low-traffic-neighbourhood-2021-02-23T10:25:03.000Z2021-02-23T10:25:03.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}8588517059,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}8588517059,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="8588517059?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="400" /></a></p>
<p>Pre-register to attend the meeting by email:</p>
<p><a href="mailto:BoundsGreenLTN@Haringey.gov.uk">BoundsGreenLTN@Haringey.gov.uk</a></p>
<p>You can also record your opinions about it on Haringey Council's <a href="https://boundsgreenltnmap.commonplace.is/?utm_campaign=share-project-email-landing-page" target="_blank">Commonplace map</a> (or send them via email to the above email address).</p>
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<p> </p></div>Census 2021 is nearly here!https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/census-2021-is-nearly-here2021-02-19T19:44:03.000Z2021-02-19T19:44:03.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}8576085870,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}8576085870,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="8576085870?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><em>Info. from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) :-</em></p>
<p>The census is coming. By taking part, you can help inform decisions on services that shape your community, such as healthcare, education and transport.</p>
<p>The census is a unique survey that happens every 10 years. It gives us a snapshot of all the people and households in England and Wales – the most detailed information we have about our society.</p>
<p>It’s important that you fill in your census questionnaire. Without the information you share, it’d be more difficult to understand your community’s needs and to plan and fund public services.</p>
<p>In one way or another, your information touches the lives of every single person living in England and Wales, whether it’s through using census information to plan new schools, doctors’ surgeries or bike lanes.</p>
<p>Because these things matter to us all, everyone needs to complete the census. Do not worry, government officials dealing with applications you’ve made or payments or services you receive cannot see it.</p>
<p>The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in England and Wales and is independent from the government. Your details are protected by law and information published is always anonymous. </p>
<p>Census Day is Sunday 21 March 2021. You can fill yours in online as soon as you get your access code in the post. If your household circumstances change on Census Day, you can let the ONS know.</p>
<p>Everyone should have the support they need to fill in the census. If you, or anyone you know, needs help, there’s a wide range of support services available.</p>
<p>These include a contact centre that can give you help over the phone and guidance in a range of languages and accessible formats, including paper questionnaires and large print.</p>
<p>If you need help or have any questions, visit <a href="http://www.census.gov.uk">www.census.gov.uk</a></p></div>Have your say on the proposal to have a low traffic neighbourhood in Bounds Green (Winton Avenue, Woodfield Way etc.)https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/new-consultation-on-the-proposal-to-have-a-low-traffic-neighbourh2021-02-06T09:31:14.000Z2021-02-06T09:31:14.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p>Haringey Council have set up a commonplace map on which you can enter your options about the proposal to have a low-traffic neighbourhood in the Winton Avenue/ Woodfield Way neighbourhood, and also on the other side of Bounds Green Road, in the Haringey Bowes area. Everyone can comment - you don't have to live in the neighbourhood! They have been prompted to do this by Enfield's introduction of a low-traffic neighbourhood in their part of Bowes Park. Will the implementation of these Low-traffic neighbourhoods have implications for the Palace Gates neighbourhood?</p>
<p><a href="https://boundsgreenltnmap.commonplace.is/?utm_campaign=share-project-email-landing-page">https://boundsgreenltnmap.commonplace.is/?utm_campaign=share-project-email-landing-page</a></p>
<p>Haringey are planning many different sorts of consultations on this topic - including for those who are not computer-savvy.</p></div>Haringey New Local Planhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-new-local-plan2020-12-29T19:57:58.000Z2020-12-29T19:57:58.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p>In case you have not seen it, the Council are inviting comments on their new Local Plan - needed to support recovery from Covid-19, to deal with the housing challenge, and to respond to the climate emergency, amongst other issues. Here is the <a href="https://s3-eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/commonplace-customer-assets/haringeynewlocalplan/Summary%20Document%2020-11-23.pdf" target="_blank">summary document</a>.</p>
<p>There is a lovely early 20th century picture of the <a href="https://hornseyhistorical.org.uk/hollywood-green-wood-green-what-was-there-before/" target="_blank">Wood Green Forge,</a> which was at Spouter's Corner, alias Hollywood Green, on the Hornsey Historical Society website. It had apparently been there (in some form) since the late 18th century! Find out more on this from Hornsey Historical Society, which incidentally celebrates its 50th anniversary this year:</p>
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<p> </p></div>Haringey Council Climate Change Action Plan: public consultationhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-council-climate-change-action-plan-public-consultation2020-11-19T12:54:05.000Z2020-11-19T12:54:05.000ZMuswell Hill Sustainabilityhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/MuswellHillSustainability<div><p style="color:#606060;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:15px;line-height:150%;text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:15px;">Haringey Council have launched an <a style="color:#0000cd;font-weight:normal;text-decoration:underline;" href="https://haringey.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d154b1b068c54fa3558c3cb26&id=684e696e88&e=d51542c70f" target="_blank">engagement website with Commonplace</a> where Haringey businesses and residents can:</span></p><ul><li><span style="font-size:15px;">Find out more about our strategy to reduce carbon emissions in the borough by 2041</span></li><li><span style="font-size:15px;">Answer questions on a range of topics</span></li><li><span style="font-size:15px;">Tell us what you are already doing to reduce emissions, what you would do and what support you need</span></li><li><span style="font-size:15px;">Set out what you feel are the priority areas we should target first with our interactive Carbon Reduction Priority Tool that we will be launching in November</span></li></ul><p style="color:#606060;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:15px;line-height:150%;text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:15px;">There is also a video of Haringey Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Equalities and Leisure, <a href="https://haringey.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d154b1b068c54fa3558c3cb26&id=fbc35b1d89&e=d51542c70f" target="_blank">Cllr Kirsten Hearn, discussing the Draft Climate Change Action Plan</a>.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}8194893684,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}8194893684,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="8194893684?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /></span></p></div>What is your learning from lockdown?https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/what-is-your-learning-from-lockdown2020-06-27T15:57:04.000Z2020-06-27T15:57:04.000ZALEX PAPWORTHhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/ALEXPAPWORTH<div><div>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:New;">During the pandemic it feels like people are waking up to the importance of community, especially in these difficult times.</span></p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"> </p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:New;">Some local residents would like to create a space where every voice is heard and respected, to explore what really matters and where we would like to go from here. We will explore our varied experiences during lockdown, discovering what was missing or what we didn't need after all. To start this process, we are setting up a community circle event on Albert Road Rec on Saturday, 11th July, from 2pm to 4pm (weather permitting). It will start with a little live music by locals, followed by lightly structured conversation. Everyone welcome!</span></p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"> </p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:New;">The gathering will be divided into groups of 5 or 6, each on a 3m square canvas mat to enable social distancing. There will also be a zoom session running concurrently for those who prefer to take part remotely, which will feed into the open air discussion. We will seek out some foldable chairs and cushions, but more would be very welcome!</span></p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"> </p>
<p class="yiv1063051358ydp901d29d1yiv3423718499MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:New;">Comments and questions on the event are welcome.</span></p>
</div></div>Add suggestions to Haringey's map to tell them where you would like to see safer roads for socially distanced walking and cyclinghttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-council-s-current-funding-bids-to-tfl-to-ensure-safe-soc2020-06-03T13:00:55.000Z2020-06-03T13:00:55.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p>The Council have launched an interactive <a href="https://haringeystreetspaces.commonplace.is/" target="_blank">Commonplace Map</a> for residents and business owners to identify cycle routes and low traffic neighbourhoods (info. on these <a href="https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/blog/anyone-interested-in-forming-a-low-traffic-group-in-alexandra-p-1" target="_blank">here</a>) that will assist social distancing in the borough. You can enter your own suggestions, and 'like' as many others as you agree with. You can also email suggestions to <a href="mailto:smarter.travel@haringey.gov.uk" target="_blank">smarter.travel@haringey.gov.uk.</a> The more people respond, the more they will take notice. Deadline <strong>26th June</strong>.</p>
<p>In the Council's <a href="https://www.haringey.gov.uk/news/active-travel-aid-social-distancing" target="_blank">announcement</a> of their bids to TfL for interim measures on 2nd June, Councillor Hearn notes that</p>
<p><em>As people return to work, even a 10% increase in car use could cause gridlock across London, and for many, using public transport will be difficult, owing to reduced capacity to ensure social distancing.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p></div>Haringey Boundarieshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-boundaries2019-12-17T11:42:19.000Z2019-12-17T11:42:19.000ZCllr Nick da Costahttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/NickdaCosta<div><p>Dear All,</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Local Boundaries Commission have announced their plans for the Haringey Boundariea from 2022.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Amazing News!!!! After pressure from local residents, they have decided to keep Alexandra Ward, albeit with two councillors, rather than three. And, the ward will he remained Alexandra Park.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thank you to everyone who wrote in and submitted plans to the Boundaries Commission as to why Alexandra Park deserves to have its own ward and representation. Also, massive thanks to Annabel and Alex, as the Boundaries Commission used their excellent proposals!</p>
<p><a href="https://s3-eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/lgbce/Reviews/Greater%20London/Haringey/Final%20Recs/Haringey%20Summary.pdf" target="_blank">Summary plans</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3774230561,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}3774230561,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="3774230561?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p></div>The Abolition of Alexandra Ward – why it is proposed by the Local Government Boundary Commission, and ways of respondinghttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/the-abolition-of-alexandra-ward-why-it-is-proposed-by-the-local-g2019-07-13T07:32:34.000Z2019-07-13T07:32:34.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3277647418,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}3277647418,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="3277647418?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="200" /></a></p>
<p>See document <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3278932162,original{{/staticFileLink}}">The Abolition of Alexandra Ward – why it is proposed by the Local Government Boundary Commission, and ways of responding</a> for more information, and for mini-ward maps of the various proposals. Here is a link to APN's <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3282970787,original{{/staticFileLink}}">alternative ward map in pdf format</a>, which is based on Alexandra and Muswell Hill wards having only 2 councillors each (they would not be large enough to support having 3 councillors - see document above). The Lib Dem's will be available soon ...</p>
<p>We suggest submitting one of these alternative maps (or indeed, simply referring to the 'Alexandra Park Neighbours map' in your comments without even uploading the map - this seems to be acceptable, as I have been assured by the Commission), and giving your own reasons for rejecting the Commission's proposals, and favouring this one (further info and reasoning are in the document above). <strong>btw the LGBC have to do something about reordering ward boundaries, so we cannot simply say that we do not want their proposal.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Deadline for feedback is 5 August.</strong></p>
<ul><li>Download the relevant map above (or just mention it in your comments). Alternatively, here it is in a <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3394823304,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Word document</a> (the map is at the bottom of the first page - write above it and continue on the next page if required).</li>
<li>Go to the Commission website at: <a href="https://consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/15479">https://consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/15479</a> and click on 'Have your Say'.</li>
<li>Upload the map if desired (you can draw your own - but note that it has to be<strong> based on carefully calculated electorates</strong>)</li>
<li>Write your comments in the box (or alternatively, include them in the uploaded document containing the map)</li>
<li>Submit</li>
</ul><p>The LGBC have been known to change their recommendations following a consultation, and we have a strong case! So if lots of people make submissions ...</p></div>Haringey Ward Boundary Changeshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-ward-boundary-changes2019-04-26T16:06:31.000Z2019-04-26T16:06:31.000ZCllr Nick da Costahttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/NickdaCosta<div><p>Dear All,</p>
<p>You might be aware that the Local Government Boundaries Commission is reviewing the Haringey Ward boundaries, and as part of the process Haringey Council have submitted their recommendations, which has been reported in today's Ham & High. The article incorrectly states that the proposals from the Local Boundary Commission will be published next week (this is incorrect, as the LGBCE has postponed the publishing until after the EU elections). </p>
<p>However, importantly for Alexandra Ward, Haringey Council's proposal is to abolish Alexandra Ward and merge the East into Bounds Green and the West into a new Muswell Hill East ward. The Council's proposals means the Triangle, Albert Rec, Tunnel Gardens/Bidwell Gardens and the north half of Palace Gates Road would become part of the new Bounds Green Ward, and the rest will be Muswell Hill East. According to the Council's submission "<strong>The council believes voters in Alexandra have more in common with those in Bounds Green due to the Tube stations.</strong>"</p>
<p>The Haringey LibDems submission to the consultation was to keep Alexandra Ward with some minor changes to the ward. </p>
<p>the Local Government Boundary Commission will publish its draft recommendations at the <strong>end of May (28th of May)</strong>, and then there will be opportunity for local residents, residents groups, etc., to make comments on the potential changes. Once the option for <strong>consultation goes liv</strong>e, we will be sharing with everyone the opportunity to make comments. Website <a href="http://www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/greater-london/greater-london/haringey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}2216203069,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2216203069,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" /></a></p>
</div>Petition to revoke Article 50 - Hornsey and Wood Green still in second placehttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/petition-to-revoke-article-50-hornsey-and-wood-green-still-in-sec2019-03-29T15:05:08.000Z2019-03-29T15:05:08.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p>With the total number of signatures nearing 6 million (and still going up), the constituency of Hornsey and Wood Green still accounts for <a href="https://www.livefrombrexit.com/petitions/241584" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the largest number after Bristol,</a> with nearly 32k signatures. New people are still signing up at 30 per minute in the UK as a whole, on average!</p>
<p>The constituency with the least signatures is Walsall North (nearly 2k), but they are still signing up at 2 per hour on average!  Their Leave vote in the Referendum was about the same proportion as H&WG's Remain vote - (74% vs 75%).</p>
</div>Haringey has a new Council Leaderhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-has-a-new-council-leader2018-05-11T20:21:30.000Z2018-05-11T20:21:30.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p><em><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/14698531?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/14698531?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="300" /></a>From the Ham & High:</em></p>
<p>The Labour group were without a leader on the council after Claire Kober’s resignation in February...  Cllr Joseph Ejiofor is the new leader of Haringey Council, after two rounds of voting by Labour councillors last night.</p>
<p>However the councillors’ choice goes against the result of an indicative vote by members on Monday night. Constituency Labour Party representatives voted overwhelmingly in favour of Cllr Ejiofor’s colleague, Zena Brabazon, who represents Harringay. When members were consulted after the hustings on Monday, Cllr Brabazon got more than the other four candidates put together.</p>
<p>Yet when the decision was put to councillors last night, Cllr Brabazon was eliminated from voting early on. This left a run-off between Cllr Peray Ahmet, who resigned from Claire Kober’s cabinet in January, and Cllr Ejiofor. The new leader is a member of Momentum’s national co-ordinating group. Cllr Emine Ibrahim was voted to be his deputy.</p>
<p>Cllr Ejiofor said: “I am proud and humbled to have been elected as leader. The Labour Group is united in its determination to serve all the residents of Haringey fairly; to manage the severe impact of Tory government cuts and create the social housing, safer communities and opportunities for residents that we desperately need.</p>
<p>“We are confident in the direction we want local government to move in the borough. We plan to build our own housing on our own land; invest in youth services, look to stimulate the local economy and begin the process of insourcing.</p>
<p>“We are excited at the prospect of creating a new model for local government that will include genuine consultation and engagement with our residents.”</p>
</div>Local election resultshttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/local-election-results2018-05-04T15:54:55.000Z2018-05-04T15:54:55.000ZSusie Holdenhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/SusieHolden<div><p>The vote in Haringey is being counted in Alexandra Palace and quite a few ward results are in. But no news yet about Alexandra Ward.</p>
</div>Crowdfunding to Save Osborne Grove Nursing Homehttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/crowdfunding-to-save-osborne-grove-nursing-home2018-03-22T17:01:21.000Z2018-03-22T17:01:21.000ZMridu Thankihttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/MriduThanki<div><p><strong>Please support the legal challenge to Haringey Council's decision to close Osborne Grove Nursing Home which provides crucial round the clock care to 13 people that live there. </strong></p><p>Deputations to the Cabinet, pleas from relatives, correspondence from groups representing older people, and the Council’s own Scrutiny Panel have all said that closure and having to look for alternative nursing beds which could be at some distance away are putting older people at unnecessary risk, when it has been agreed that the future of Osborne Grove will now be considered further after the elections in May. </p><p>Money pledge to:</p><p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/osborne-grove-nursing-home/?utm_source=backer_social&utm_reference=0f6c3c0e809b331d50c14bfffec19fe4&utm_medium=email&utm_content=post_pledge_page_flat_v1&utm_campaign=osborne-grove-nursing-home%C2%A0">https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/osborne-grove-nursing-home/?utm_source=backer_social&utm_reference=0f6c3c0e809b331d50c14bfffec19fe4&utm_medium=email&utm_content=post_pledge_page_flat_v1&utm_campaign=osborne-grove-nursing-home </a>;</p></div>Changes in the cabinet of Haringey Councilhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/changes-in-the-cabinet-of-haringey-council2017-11-23T21:55:49.000Z2017-11-23T21:55:49.000ZAdminhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/Admin<div><p>The Ham&High reports that Haringey housing chief Alan Strickland has stood down from the selection process in advance of the local elections next May. There is also mention of councillor Joe Goldberg (cabinet member for Economic Development, Social Inclusion and Sustainability) having stood down earlier:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/noel-park-cllr-alan-strickland-stands-downahead-of-haringey-local-elections-1-5288866" target="_blank">http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/noel-park-cllr-alan-strickland-stands-downahead-of-haringey-local-elections-1-5288866</a></p>
<p>Ex-cabinet member for the environment, Stuart McNamara, has also stood down, 'attacking leader Clare Kober in a blistering resignation letter':</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/cllr-stuart-mcnamara-attacks-haringey-council-leader-claire-kober-in-resignation-letter-1-5268052" target="_blank">http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/cllr-stuart-mcnamara-attacks-haringey-council-leader-claire-kober-in-resignation-letter-1-5268052</a></p>
<p>Lots of discussion of the selection process on Harringay Online, including the following:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.harringayonline.com/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=selections" target="_blank">http://www.harringayonline.com/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=selections</a></p>
<p>Unhappiness in Bounds Green about the selection process:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bowesandbounds.org/forum/topics/bounds-green-councillors-ali-clare-and-joanna?commentId=6278630%3AComment%3A128179&xg_source=activity" target="_blank">http://www.bowesandbounds.org/forum/topics/bounds-green-councillors-ali-clare-and-joanna?commentId=6278630%3AComment%3A128179&xg_source=activity</a></p>
<p></p>
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</div>Haringey Votes on HDV - blistering piece in the Guardianhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/haringey-votes-on-hdv-blistering-piece-in-the-guardian2017-07-03T09:44:17.000Z2017-07-03T09:44:17.000ZWood Greenerhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/WoodGreener<div>https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/jul/03/britain-power-contempt-grenfell-labour-haringey-social-housing?CMP=twt_gu</div>Hustings for the General Electionhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/hustings-for-the-general-election2017-05-20T14:42:27.000Z2017-05-20T14:42:27.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p><strong>There will be opportunities to question the parliamentary candidates for Hornsey and Wood Green on:</strong></p>
<p>Weds 31 May 1.30pm at Hornsey Parish Church Hall, Cranley Gardens N10 3AH  (organised by Hornsey Pensioners Action Group)</p>
<p>Sun 4 June at 2.30pm at Muswell Hill Baptist Church, Dukes Avenue N10 2PT</p>
<p>- if you hear of any others, please post on this website !</p>
<p></p>
</div>Register to Vote!https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/register-to-vote2017-05-19T08:36:25.000Z2017-05-19T08:36:25.000ZAnnabel Gregoryhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/AnnabelGregory<div><p>There's still time to register to vote in the general election if you aren't already on the electoral roll. Encourage any youngsters or anyone else who is eligible - only takes 5 mins at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote" target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote</a> . Deadline Monday 22nd May at 12 noon (well, 11.59pm!). </p>
</div>Save Palace Gates Dry Cleanershttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/save-palace-gates-dry-cleaners2017-05-13T14:00:20.000Z2017-05-13T14:00:20.000ZJames Pattersonhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/CllrJamesPatterson<div><p>Cllr Liz McShane and I are supporting Zoe and Demos in their objection to the planning application that threatens their business. We would encourage local residents to register their objections on the Haringey Council website. The deadline is this Wednesday 17th May 2017. <a href="http://www.planningservices.haringey.gov.uk/portal/servlets/ApplicationSearchServlet?PKID=307816" target="_blank">http://www.planningservices.haringey.gov.uk/portal/servlets/ApplicationSearchServlet?PKID=307816</a></p>
</div>Planning application threatens Palace Gates Dry Cleanershttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/planning-application-threatens-palace-gates-dry-cleaners2017-05-12T17:55:42.000Z2017-05-12T17:55:42.000ZIndijana Harperhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/IndijanaHarper<div><p>A planning application for a two bedroom flat to be built at the back of the Palace Gates Dry Cleaners, 26 Palace Gates Road, would make it impossible for Zoe and Demos, who have run the business on the premises for the past 23 years, to continue as it would leave them with just the shop at the front, but without the laundry and boiler room at the back. </p><p>I have objected. The reference is HGY/2017/1185.</p><p>The landlords (most of the arcade is owned by 3 people) had already been allowed to subdivide the flats above the shops to the point where the flats are warrens. The walls run across window panes in some cases, making them fire hazard. All subdivided flats are rented. The few single flats owners find themselves unable to sell them for anything approximating prices similar properties fetch in the neighbourhood. The greedy landlords then began building onto the back of the terraces, exploiting the Council's long standing failure to intervene in illegal developments. They got retrospective planning permission (despite numerous complaints from the residents). As a result, some shop premises are difficult to rent and two are still unoccupied. The precedent was set for further extensions when the first retrospective planning permit was granted. That is the background. What is happening now?</p><p>Following G and Garnham closure and liquidation of the business, property developers bought the building in Crescent Mews to convert it into 46 flats. I do not have a problem with this development, right opposite my house, and doubt many of my neighbours will. People have to live somewhere. We have an empty old industrial building and someone willing to turn it into residential unit. Some of the flats will be social housing, so desperately needed in the neighbourhood. What is there to object to? </p><p>But, the owners of the arcade may make it impossible to turn the G & Garnham old building into flats as they expand and build onto the back of their properties, leaving too little space for access. Or, their extension may necessitate a reduction in the number of the flats planned in the G&Garnham building, making it impossible for the developer to provide the quota of social housing units. Or, the finances may make it impossible for the developer to proceed and the neighbourhood will be left with a decaying, empty building.</p><p>I do not trust the Council planning department to make the right decision here. We have been complaining about the sharp practices of the arcade owners for two decades, as they went about destroying its original features, only to be ignored time and again. What had previously been a well preserved, intact Edwardian arcade, a rare sight in London, is no more (Muswell Hill must be the finest of the large ones that remain, but of the small ones there are none I can think of). Gone in 20 years, because the Council lacked muscle to enforce the law. And the local residents were too busy with their lives to mind. So, if you are not too busy with your lives, please at least give objecting to this application a thought. Zoe and Demos will lose their business. We shall lose our dry cleaners. And more people will be crammed into dwellings unfit to house them.</p></div>CPZ extension cancelled!https://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/forum/cpz-extension-cancelled2016-06-29T11:40:36.000Z2016-06-29T11:40:36.000ZRuth Millerhttps://alexandraparkneighbours.org.uk/members/RuthMiller<div><p><span>Small beer compared with Brexit misery but I’ve just heard that the CPZ extension has been cancelled. Letter has been sent to residents, dated 22 June. Seems that the support from those who voted for the CPZ extension was cancelled out by the din raised by those who voted against and didn’t like the way it was planned to be implemented. So the whole thing has been cancelled, and no further consultation to take place. Anyone who's already paid for a permit will be refunded. I wasn’t aware that any consultation had taken place leading to this decision – conversations in the street and discussion in smoke-filled rooms, perhaps, but nothing in writing to indicate that reconsideration was taking place. A clear vote in favour of the CPZ by those most affected has been overturned by those sufficiently unaffected by the current CPZ to have voted ‘No’ during the consultation exercise. Seems that a democratic process has been subverted. Councillors, please could you respond and tell us how this process was conducted. Perhaps Brexit can be cancelled next?</span></p></div>