If  you know someone who freely gives of their time and who deserves recognition then nominate them for anaward by downloading this form and post it back to Cllr Tina Valcarcel, Mayor of Lambeth by  Monday 20 February 2012

Click here to download the form

The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday 4^th April.

Are you wondering what has happened to the proposed 255 bus route being extended via Weir Road?

Back in 2009, after years of campaigning by residents and councillors, Transport for London consulted residents in our area about extending the current 255 bus route. The result from across our neighbourhood was an emphatic ‘yes’. Young and old people backed the proposal – to feel safer at night and to cut down on the use of cars and taxis.

From Lambeth’s point of view, it was all systems go.

But the scheme continues to be blocked by Wandsworth who remain concerned about the impact on a small number of residents in Old Devonshire Road, a vital part of the route.

WERA has continued to lobby our local councillors, and Val Shawcross our London Assembly Member, but sadly the issues with Wandsworth don’t seem to be progressing.

Councillor Lib Peck recently said: “We remain committed to getting the bus into our area and will continue to keep up the pressure on Wandsworth. If you would like to add your voice to the campaign, then please contact the local”.

iSource is for young people between the ages of 11 and 16.

From 6:30pm-7:30pm it is open for young people to come and do their homework in a relaxed environment with qualified teachers offering support and help.

From 7:30pm-9pm iSource turns into a youth club offering table tennis (currently with a coach offering pointers with the help of funding from Molly Huggins), pool, football, hockey, movies and more.

iSource is free is you come at 6:30 for the home work club. If you’re coming just for the youth club it is £1.

Venue: St Stephen’s Church Centre, Weir Road, London SW12 0NU

Click here for PDF poster

For further information, please contact Hannah Phillips, email: hannah.phillips@stwss.org.uk

Digital TV switchover is the biggest change in television since the introduction of colour. Are you ready for it?

In April 2012, the digital TV switchover will take place across London. If you are still watching analogue TV (five channels or fewer) on any of your sets, you need to convert them to digital or you will lose TV channels.

Almost everyone will be able to watch Freeview after the switchover, even homes currently out of coverage. Virtually any TV can be converted using a Freeview box, digital satellite service or digital cable.

For eligible older (over 75) or disabled viewers who may find the switch difficult, the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme can provide everything you need to switch one TV to digital.

If you have any questions, or want to check your options for going digital, visit Digital UK’s website or call their advice line on 08456 50 50 50.

Leaflets in languages other than English as well as videos with subtitles and BSL signing are available from the Digital UK Community outreach page.

For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900 (textphone 0800 40 85 936).

Click here for Frequenty Asked Questions

January 2012

TO: All Residents of Weir Estate

Dear Resident

Weir Estate Residents Association – Annual General Meeting 2012
Weir Estate Residents Association will be holding the Annual General Meeting on:

Tuesday, 21^st February 2012, 7pm to 9pm
at The Weir Link, 33 Weir Road, London SW12 0NU

This meeting and election of officers is a very important part of securing the future of Weir Estate Residents Association and the future of our estate in what will be continuing tough times of change and hardship for everyone living on a council estate, and obtaining local council services. Government and local authority cuts are continuing, and this year could prove to be tougher following last year’s cuts.

Associations like ours are at the forefront of fighting for your rights as part of these government changes, with Lambeth council adopting the co-operative council model, and central governments, ‘Big Society’ programme.

If you come along and get involved, you can help to ensure that we can continue to improve your homes, your estate and your community; help to make Weir Estate a safer, cleaner and better estate.

Please do not miss this meeting and think someone else will speak for you, this meeting is your chance to help set the priorities to be tackled for the year ahead, and elect the right people to manage the association.

This meeting is very important and we encourage your participation at this and future meetings.

Please attend and make sure your views are heard. This will be a very exciting year ahead for all on the estate, with the completion of the Weir Community Garden; and your involvement in this meeting and the future of WERA will ensure we can continue to do major projects such as this.

The agenda will be available at the meeting and available online on our website www.wera.org.uk, in the week prior to the meeting.

Our annual report will be published on 21^st February 2012, the date of the Annual General Meeting, and will be available at the meeting, as well as being available online; residents who are not able to attend the meeting, can request a copy by writing to us at the address (or email) overleaf.

If you would like to discuss any of the information in this letter, or for further information about the AGM, or to nominate yourself or someone for a position, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@wera.org.uk

As part of this pack, we have attached the role descriptions for the main positions:

● Chair
● Vice-Chair
● Secretary
● Treasurer
● Committee members

Yours faithfully,

WERA Executive Committee

Weir Estate Residents Association
c/o The Weir Link ▪ 33 Weir Road ▪ London ▪ SW12 0NU 
e: info@wera.org.uk ▪ w: www.wera.org.uk

If you are thinking about studying for a new qualification to help with your job prospects, entry to higher education or if you would like to develop a new interest, come to the Lambeth College Open Evening. We have a course for you.

Come and meet our staff and students, have a look around our Clapham and Vauxhall centres and  sample for yourself the many courses, training programmes and apprenticeships we offer.

Not only can you pick up information on our huge range of courses and subjects available, you can talk directly to Lambeth College staff  to help you make your choices.

You can also find out about help with fees and finance and money matters for young people.

• Guided tours of our fantastic facilities
• Meet and chat to staff and students
• Get valuable advice on choosing the right course for you
• Exhibitions of students’ work

Don’t miss this great opportunity. If you would like more details please contact our Course Advice Team by email, call 020 7501 5000 or visit our website http://www.lambethcollege.ac.uk/life-at-lambeth/events/open-evening-1323861541#showpopup

Finding the Clapham Centre

Finding the Vauxhall Centre

Click here for the Flyer

If you would like further information, please contact us info@wera.org.uk

Mosaic making for all ages.
Learn new skills and meet new people in a flexible and friendly environment with professional teaching staff.

At The Weir Link, 33 Weir Road, London SW12 0NU

on Thursday 24^th November, Saturday 26^th November, Sunday 27^th Nov, Thursday 1^st December and Thursday 8^th December 10-3pm

Learn how to make beautiful mosaics for your home and garden.
Take part in making permanent artworks for Weir Garden. We need your help to make the Weir Community Garden a special place for growing, eating and sharing.
Come along, have your say and get involved.

For more information call 07867 683169 or email touchwoodtrees@yahoo.com or drop in!

Lambeth Living working in conjunction with the RSPCA London South East Branch has arranged a Free Micro-chipping day for cats and dogs.

The micro-chipping will take place at Central Area Housing Office, Greenleaf Close, Brixton, SW4 9QU, on Friday 16^th December 2011, 4.30pm to 7pm.

Micro-chipping will be done free of charge, with donations gratefully received by the RSPCA.
No appointment is required.

For further information, contact 07952 680 522.

The project is supported by Lambeth Council Environmental Services.

Lambeth Council are planning their new housing strategy for 2012 to 2016 and want your feedback to help create a shared vision for all housing in the borough, setting out how they will work with their partners and residents to improve housing and housing services. 

They would like you to tell them what your key priorities are by completing an online survey by 31 December 2011.

Lambeth Council want to be the first Cooperative Council and with the help of people like you, they are taking a new approach to developing a strategy that will be coproduced with resident input.

Lambeth’s top cop will be stepping down next month – against his wishes.

Chief Superintendent Nick Ephgrave, Lambeth’s Borough Commander had asked police bosses to let him stay on whilst he attended a three-month senior development course from January 2012, but in the interests of “continuity”, they have decided to relieve him of his role.

His replacement has yet to be named.

In a letter to residents, Chief Supt Ephgrave said his time as Borough Commander had been “the most challenging and satisfying period” of his police career, adding that he had been “blessed” to work with “so many committed and public-spirited people”.

He said: “The Metropolitan Police has taken the view that in the interests of continuity and performance focus, Lambeth borough would be better served by appointing a new borough commander prior to my attending the course.

“I have made representations to remain and I am grateful for the support I have received from partners in this respect. Nonetheless, the decision stands.

“I will look back on my time at Lambeth as the most challenging and satisfying period in my service.

“Without doubt, I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work with so many committed and public-spirited people and I believe we have achieved many things together over the past two-and-a-half years.”

WERA would like to wish the Borough Commander our best wishes for the future, and thank him for his hard work for the borough. WERA has been delighted to have the Borough Commander at the Weir Community Day earlier this year.

You will have the chance to learn more about housing in Lambeth and to discuss your vision for your homes and neighbourhoods.

This year we are introducing a number of new and exciting features including:

• an interactive repairs zone
• a speed dating event – a chance to briefly meet different organisations, find out what’s going on in your area and learn about ways you could get involved
• a market zone – featuring information and stalls
• a video room – have a suggestion? Let us know on camera
• a big prize – raffle and quiz with a chance to win a number of prizes.

You will also have the opportunity to listen to and question a panel of senior housing officers, councillors and special guest speakers and to attend a variety of informative workshops.

If you would like to attend, please fill in the booking form and email it to housingconference@lambeth.gov.uk by Thursday 3 November 2011.

Lambeth Living, the council’s arms-length-management organisation (ALMO) have announced plans to outsource their call centre operations to private company, Vangent. The move is planned to take place in from 1^st December until 30^th September 2012, with Lambeth Living having full control over the contract.

Vangent will manage Lambeth Living’s call centre operations and this will provide significant cost savings to Lambeth Living which can be reinvested in services to tenants and leaseholders. Tenants and Leaseholders will receive a much improved service as the contract with Vangent sets high performance levels ensuring that Lambeth Living delivers the ‘Lambeth Promise’.

Vangent is experienced in handing Lambeth Living’s core business areas, in particular issues around repairs and co-location of contractor staff with call centre staff.

It is expected that the transition will be seamless, and the same range of services will be delivered through the new call centre as present. The numbers used by tenants and leaseholders to contact the call centre will not change; and the current staff who deliver the service will transfer to Vangent to deliver the service under the new contract.

The contract has been entered into using the existing out of hours framework agreement, which expires on 30^th September 2012, with work already underway to procure a  longer term 4-5 year contract, which should come into effect on 1^st October 2012.

Update:

Neil Litherland, Lambeth Living Chief Executive said “Lambeth Living provides a wide range of services to over 30,000 residents who prefer to contact us by telephone. They have told us they want to get through quicker and speak to someone who can sort things out. We are looking forward to residents seeing the benefits of Vangent’s track record”.

The aim of the project is to increase recycling in the estates, to decrease general waste, to ensure that resident’s wellbeing is looked after and to increase the capacity of the community as a whole.

To do this in each estate I am helping residents to put whatever they want to see happen into action. This has been very different across each estate such as looking at recycled craft, using grey water, help a neighbour scheme, composting, making wormeries, training for young people and doing memories workshops. In Weir estate maybe it could be helping out with the community garden and give some support there.

If there is anything you would like to see happen in Weir or that is already happening and you feel you need a bit more support please let me know via email Theresa.Greene@wastewatch.org.uk or phone 07738 343 340.

Over the next few weeks it would be great to meet all of you and maybe hold a short and fun workshop to get all the ideas out there.

Residents may have noticed a new recycling bank on Weir Estate. The latest recycling bank is painted like a ladybird, and is for recycling of textiles. The association was successful in receiving the bank after approaching Lambeth Recycling.

WERA’s Communications Officer, Kieran Casey said “The extra recycling facilities on the estate will add a boost to the recycling available to residents. We hope residents will use the new facility when they have textiles to be disposed of, and will use the bank in the appropriate manner, and not contaminate it with other waste.”

The recycling bank will be emptied by Chris Carey’s Collections.

A lot of the textiles are remanufactured in the UK, many are resold or remanufactured worldwide. This produces employment on a global scale.

Some of the textiles will be sorted and mutilated so that the fibres are ready for re–weaving. This material is then compressed and distributed to companies for remanufacture into wadding, damp proofing and car lining etc.

We are looking for individuals as well as members of community groups to become Lambeth’s first ever snow wardens and make our pavements and footpaths safer for everyone.

During the winter months our focus is on keeping public services and main transport routes running. We’re continuing with our usual winter maintenance service this year, but this still means that many quieter residential roads don’t get gritted. This is why we are offering you the opportunity to get involved and make a real difference in your local area.
We will give our snow wardens all the training and tools they will need, including;

• a shovel
• hi-visibility jacket
• gloves
• grit bin
• a supply of grit.

We will provide community groups with additional equipment which can be shared amongst members.

Training sessions will be held during the weeks beginning 10 October and 24 October 2011, with some sessions during the early evening and some during the day. The sessions will be a great opportunity to meet and mix with other snow wardens in your area.
Cllr Lorna Campbell, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability on Lambeth Council, explained:

“Council gritter lorries and staff will still spread grit on all the main roads and footpaths as usual, but the idea is to give more power to make a difference in their local area, especially on quieter residential streets.

“This is a really good example of what we mean by making Lambeth a Cooperative borough – empowering residents who want to get more involved in helping their local community by giving them the tools to do so.”

“The council will deliver a supply of grit to the residents who have registered their interest before bad weather is due, so it is ready to be used as soon as the snow starts to settle. This will ensure that they will be ready to act quickly, particularly to help out older and vulnerable residents in their street.”
To sign up as a volunteer or to simply find out more about the scheme email SnowWardens@lambeth.gov.uk or phone 020 7926 0524.
Up to date information on the scheme can also be found at www.lambeth.gov.uk/snowwarden.

As of 30^th September the Worsopp Drive Office will close permanently,

This is due to the poor state of the building and the lack of staff to provide necessary cover

During September the office will continue to open from 9.30am to 12.30pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

Alternative ways to Lambeth Living

To report a repair, make an appointment, any other enquiry, Please ring the Lambeth Service Centre on 0207 926 6000

You may also visit:

Central Area Office at Greenleaf Close, Tulse Hill Estate, SW2 2HB (buses 2,415,432 from Brixton centre) Open 9.30am to 5.00pm

Brixton Customer Services Centre, Olive Morris House, 18 Brixton Hill,SW2 1RD Opening Hours

Streatham Customer Services Centre, 2-8 Gracefield Gardens, SW16 2ST Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm

If you have difficulties getting to any of these locations please let contact Lambeth Living to arrange a home visit.

Trustees wanted for successful local Community and Children’s Centre

The Weir Link is a vibrant and highly successful Community and Children’s Centre in Lambeth, South West London. Established in 2008, the Centre has been widely recognised for its good work, and has plans to expand its provision in the area of community health.

We want to increase the number of Trustees to match growth in the Centre’s activities. We are also planning ahead for the replacement of the Chair and others, as the end of their time as Trustees approaches.

In particular, we are seeking up to 4 people with the following experience, knowledge and/or professional skills:

• Community involvement and leadership
• Strategic leadership in the charity or not for profit sector
• Financial planning and management
• Supporting the well-being of Children and Young people
• Community health-care provision
• Education and/or Employment
• Service Level Agreements and Contracts
• Business Development and Fund-raising

Previous Trustee experience is not essential – induction training and support will be provided. It is important to us that the Trustee body fully represents the diversity, cultures, experience, and skills from across the borough of Lambeth. We are therefore seeking applications from local residents, parents/carers and community groups, as well those with relevant professional or voluntary experience and skills.

Documents:
Click here for the Criteria for Selection and Interview (word)
Click here for further information about the Weir Link (word)
Click here for the latest Weir Link Newsletter (word)
Click here for the Application Form (pdf)
To find out more, please contact: Linda Linehan at Abbeville Associates tel 020 7720 1830 or e-mail: admin@abbevilleassociates.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 16 September 2011

Interviews will take place on 12/13 October 2011 and/or during the following week (dates to be agreed by August 2011)

Weir Estate is today featured in a news story on the BBC News Website.

Click the link to view the story….  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13903675

Recycling bins throughout Weir Estate are being filled with non-recyclable items. These items are classed as contamination and could mean the entire contents of the recycling bin may not be recycled.

The main types of contamination are carrier bags, food waste and textiles. These cannot be placed within the recycling bins. Carrier bags can be recycled at some supermarkets. Textiles can be placed in recycling banks specifically for textiles, or you can donate them to charity.

If you use black sacks within your home to hold recycling waste, please do not put them into your shared recycling bins. When black sacks are spotted at the sorting plant it is assumed they are full of general waste and are disposed of, so please empty recycling into the recycling bin,

and dispose of black sacks with general waste.
For more information on recycling, contact Lambeth Service Centre on 020 7926 9000 or email recycling@lambeth.gov.uk or visit www.lambeth.gov.uk/recycling

What you can recycle…

Newly appointed secretary, Jacqui Niles with Dave McEvoy, WERA Chair

Weir Estate Residents Association has elected another new secretary and executive officer in resident, Jacqui Niles. The election is the second this year. Jacqui was appointed at the association’s recent meeting by an un-opposed nomination.

Miss Niles election follows the resignation of previous secretary, Debbie Wydler due to work related commitments two months after being elected by members at the Annual General meeting held in February this year.

At the association’s recent meeting, Jacqui Niles a mum of two, nominated herself for the position of secretary and was quickly elected at an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) by residents present.

Miss Niles has been a resident on the estate for 18 years where despite having a job in the city working in finance and a Personal Assistant will be using her expertise and knowledge to volunteer to carry out the essential position as secretary and an executive officer.

Following her election, Jacqui said ‘I am pleased to have been elected as Secretary of WERA and have seen an enormous difference the association has made to the Estate.  Having attended my first meeting I noticed how we can all play a part in the future of our estate by coming along and expressing our views as well as supporting WERA in any way that we can.’

She added ‘I am extremely enthusiastic about taking on this role and intend to bring fresh ideas and am proud to be part of an organisation that works very hard to implement new changes for the benefit of the residents.

I am also looking forward to working alongside my colleagues and hope the association continues to be a long term success.’

The secretary role can be a varied position that also carries much responsibility for the smooth running of the association such as preparing documents for meetings and ensuring this is ready for distribution as well as taking and recording all minutes of any meetings held by the association.

The association secretary also keeps accurate records such as previous minutes of forum and external meetings attended by WERA, agendas and correspondence. The position also qualifies as an executive role alongside the Chair and Treasurer with a vice chair position going unfilled at the EGM meeting.

Dave McEvoy, WERA Chair said of Jacqui’s appointment ‘I am truly grateful and delighted that Jacqui has come forward to fulfil what is an essential role within our association.  Jacqui will be a truly great addition and ambassador and bring fantastic new ideas for a great future of this association with passion and enthusiasm to improve our community.’

Dave added ‘I would personally like to congratulate her on her recent election and look forward to working closely with her for the benefit of Weir Estate residents and our Association and am more than confident she will be a fantastic addition to our executive team along with Sue our executive colleague and our committee members.’

The position became vacant just two months after the Annual general meeting when former secretary and estate resident, Debbie wydler resigned putting pressure on the association to appoint a new executive secretary.

Jacqui is now in post and is keen to make the role her own as WERA strives to find new ways to improve the estate with new exciting projects such as a community garden project due to open later in the year.

WERA still needs to elect a vice chair as members were warned that failure to identify and appoint one could see the departure of current chair, Dave McEvoy.

Minutes of the meeting and Jacqui’s election will be available on this website soon.

Works to install the Weir Community Garden have been delayed due to the discovery of a major gas leak affecting flats on Anfield Close. The Garden is being developed by Weir Estate Residents Association and had been due to open later this year. Works had begun to install fencing and had been due to be finished before four major leaks were discovered by Southern Gas Networks after concerns were raised by residents.

The Community Garden was being worked on by SSG Landscapes to install fencing however this has been halted while works to locate and fix the burst mains pipe running along the front of the block.

Residents living in six properties on Anfield Close had been left without a gas supply for a week while the gas board installed new pipes to the flats most affected.  The leak had been discovered after residents had complained of a constant smell of gas in the area.

Works were underway to open the garden later in the year however this has been held up due to the leak which has now been fixed however further repair works still need to be carried out.  Dave McEvoy, WERA’s Chair said “This is a very unfortunate unforeseen delay but the safety of residents and homes is and will always remain the up-most priority.  We are disappointed that the project to install an exciting new community and estate asset will be held up but this is an unexpected delay that is beyond our control.”

Works will continue to install fencing in the next couple of weeks once the gas board have left the site and it has been handed back to the garden installation contractors. The project may now not open until later than expected when Touchwood Trees will take over the development of the garden project alongside residents.

There will need to be some remedial works to repair the fences already installed as damage was caused during the erecting of scaffolding.

These works will begin shortly.

Photo (c) Lambeth council

Lambeth council has sealed a 10 year deal with Capita, to outsource its customer services function, including its call-centre and council tax collection and save £1m per year.

As part of the deal, £6.5 million will be made available by Capita to invest in new technology that will allow residents to deal with the council when convenient, by text message, online or any other method that suits them.

Cllr Paul McGlone, cabinet member for finance, said: “We are determined to make the whole experience of contacting the council easier and as hassle free as possible, and this will lead to a much improved experience when people contact us to pay their council tax, inquire about their benefits, find out about a service or report a problem.

“We understand our residents have busy lives, and they want the business of dealing with the council to be as quick and pain free as possible. In the past dealing with the council has not always been as easy as it should have been, but these changes will markedly improve our customer service standards as well as representing better value for money.”

As part of the deal, Capita is to invest £500,000 into a Community Development Trust to support residents.

The company has offered to create opportunities to train Lambeth residents within Capita’s London based businesses, to enhance their employment opportunities.

It will also launch a Support Young People programme that will mentor and support local young people into education, employment and training, as well as providing 40 apprenticeships to local people for jobs within the organisation.

Lambeth Council’s Chief Executive, Derrick Anderson CBE has visited Weir Estate for the first time this week and has been shown the developments on the estate by WERA’s Chair, Dave McEvoy and committee member Brenda Lewis demonstrating improvements and engagement carried out by the association to improve the condition and safety of the estate.

Mr Anderson who has been Chief Executive of Lambeth Council since March 2006 was taken on a walkabout of the whole estate which has

undergone dramatic changes and vast improvements over the past few years and has been singled out as one of the best housing estates in Lambeth.

The walkabout was also attended by Thornton Ward Councillor, Cllr Diana Morris and officers from the Thornton ward safer neighbourhood policing team PCSO Karen Rose and PCSO Carl McLean who spoke about the strong community partnership with Weir Estate Residents Association and the impact on reducing crime on and around the estate by working closely with the community.

Mr Anderson was invited to visit the estate for the first time by WERA Chair, Dave McEvoy in order to highlight the on-going work by the estates association to improve the homes and area for residents which are managed by the council’s arm’s length management organisation (ALMO) Lambeth Living.  During the walkabout Lambeth’s Chief Executive spoke about the difficulties facing the borough as government cuts begin to bite but praised the efforts of WERA to establish a better community and improve the homes of residents despite forthcoming cuts.

Cllr Diana Morris with Derrick Anderson and Dave McEvoy, WERA Chair

Dave McEvoy, WERA’s Chair said following the visit ‘It is very important to us as an active residents association for our key figures and decision makers in Lambeth to see first-hand the hard work of WERA which has transformed our estate, how we are working on building and maintaining our thriving partnerships which are essential to the on-going survival of our community and for the better of Lambeth residents.’

Dave added ‘We are honoured and delighted to have welcomed Mr Anderson at this walkabout and his first visit here to our estate.  We are pleased that he is able to see the on-going work we are putting in to working with our key partners such as Lambeth Council and the police, I also hope he will take away the progress we have made to benefit the rest of our great borough.’

All services across Lambeth are under the chief executives command since his arrival from a similar position in the West Midlands.

Following many changes to the way Lambeth’s housing stock is managed in Lambeth since the responsibility for council properties was handed over to Lambeth Living, when it was introduced in 2008, Mr Anderson has continued to tackle many of the borough’s other challenges and difficulties. During the walkabout Mr Anderson spoke candidly about the past delivery of Lambeth Living and its former Chief Executive, Cathy Deplessis and was keen to reiterate that he has continued to stress the importance of improving resident’s satisfaction in the services the ALMO delivers on behalf of Lambeth Council which had a strained relationship with its housing provider.

Derrick Anderson checks the damaged bin pods

Mr Anderson who has over 25 years’ experience in local government as well as a committee member on several other national and worldwide bodies has previously taken part in a WERA Asks was also shown the Weir Community Garden project site currently being developed on Anfield Close as a co-operative project with support from Lambeth Council. Staff at the Weir Link Centre and Nursery also met Mr Anderson who was given a tour of the facilities and services on offer at the centre. Staff explained the services which are building strong relations and support networks for local families and residents across the local community with English as second language as well as its outstanding rated Ofsted nursery.  Staff were also keen to explain the outstanding progress of the provision of services accessible to the wider community as a Lambeth Children’s and Community Centre which now faces huge funding cuts next year as part of the government’s spending review.

WERA regularly holds walkabouts on the estate with high profile Lambeth figures and officers to highlight the issues the estate faces as well as the improvements which have taken place thanks to its strong residents association.

Derrick Anderson visits the Weir Link Nursery

Derrick Anderson said ‘I have to say the pride and commitment in the Weir Estate to see it improve shone through magnificently.  I was also mightily impressed with the engagement of tenants, especially those who have contributed personally to the look and feel of the estate.  There is clear evidence of joint working in the fact that both crime and antisocial behaviour do not appear to be an issue on the site thanks to the working with local police officers and partners.  Sadly this cannot be said for other estates elsewhere in the borough.’

Mr Anderson also praised the efforts of the Weir Link on Weir Estate after meeting staff and centre users ‘I was pleased to be able to see the Weir link project and to talk with the staff.  Please pass on my thanks and appreciation to those concerned.  They are clearly performing admirably and are a credit to both the estate and the borough.’

Lambeth council are to be hit with major cuts to its budget from central government which could see huge changes to the way services are delivered but those taking part in the walkabout were assured by Mr Anderson that they will ‘get through it by embracing our communities and utilising the enthusiasm of groups such as WERA to deliver its services.

Lambeth Council has been repeatedly criticised by sections of the media over the way the borough has been run and this was strongly dismissed as Lambeth becomes a diverse and ever changing borough.

You can read Mr Anderson’s WERA Asks interview by clicking here

Find out more about Derrick Anderson and Lambeth Council by visiting their website at www.lambeth.gov.uk

Streatham’s Member of Parliament, Chuka Umunna MP has paid his second visit to Weir Estate in a week to carry out an estate visit and hear concerns during a walkabout organised by Mr Umunna’s office as part of a drive to engage with communities.

The walkabout which took place on Friday, 17th June, following his attendance at the Weir Community Day the previous weekend in which he praised the work of the association and The Weir Link as the ‘real big society in action’.  Mr Umunna who has been in office as the member of Parliament for the Streatham Constituency since May 2010 met with WERA’s Chair and committee members, Lambeth Living officers, one of the local councillors, Cllr Ed Davie, officers from the Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team (SNT) and Wandle Housing Association officers.

The planned walkabouts are arranged by the MP’s office throughout his constituency which are designed to hear concerns and highlight issues then followed by the MP.

At the start of the walkabout Chuka Umunna said ‘The most important people on these walkabouts are the residents themselves, they are the VIP’s as they know the issues that affect resident’s lives on estates. I get a lot of casework from housing estates and I feel the best way find out more about these is to come out to estates like Weir to see and hear it for myself.’

The walkabout was attended by WERA Chair, Dave McEvoy and two elected association committee members Brenda Lewis and Ellen Hawkes.

WERA committee member, Brenda Lewis said “It is great that our MP, Chuka Umunna is taking an active interest in Weir Estate and the efforts of Weir Estate Residents Association. We are delighted to have Chuka on the estate to carry out this walkabout and hear the concerns and issues that matter to us as residents. This enables us to highlight the improvements being made and needs of the residents.”

During the walkabout those attending were shown issues that have arisen and will now be taken up by Mr Umunna who was recently appointed Shadow Minister for Small Business and Enterprise by Labour opposition leader, Ed Miliband. Chuka was also shown developments on the association’s latest project, the Weir Estate Community Garden expected to open later this year.

Concerns were also raised about forthcoming government cuts such as the benefits reform bill which will affect hundreds of residents as well as a localism bill due to be voted on by the government which could see major changes to the right to a permanent council property. Mr Umunna assured WERA that he would be voting against these changes in order to safeguard the rights of tenants and residents.

The Weir Link Centre and Family Services Manager, Clare Ballard-Yawson also highlighted concerns about cuts to the budgets for children’s centres which are due to hit next year.

During the walkabout association Chair, Dave McEvoy criticised Wandle Housing Association officers for their lack of engagement with their residents as the estate has 3 five bed houses owned by the housing association. Weir Estate Residents Association was supported by the Streatham MP who has asked for there to be a major improvement in recognising WERA as the voice of Wandle residents one of which is an elected association committee member. Wandle Housing Association’s area manager, Tiana Rosenbaum has given assurance there will be efforts to engage with WERA on a regular basis in order to inform and support residents living in their properties on Weir Estate.

Chuka holds regular advice surgeries at a number of venues across the constituency – bookings are by prior appointment only. You can arrange an appointment by calling 020 8769 5063 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am and 1pm, you can also email any concerns to chuka.umunna.mp@parliament.uk, full details of Chuka’s work can be found at www.chuka.org.uk

Weir Estate Residents Association has revealed a new look logo during the recent Weir Community Day on Saturday 11^th June.  The new look modernised design was unveiled on new promotional items given out at the event.

The new logo was designed by the printers after an earlier design was too costly to use in printing and has been released to coincide with the second birthday of the association’s thriving website www.wera.org.uk.

The newly re-designed logo has kept a similar recognisable design to the previous logo of WERA but has received a two colour black and while design with same size lettering to uniform the graphic, this has reinvented the branding of the association and has replaced the three colour previous design implemented by current chair, Dave McEvoy 3 years ago at the start of his time in office. The logo also now incorporates the web address as part of the design.

Dave explained “We wanted to promote the association on a wider scale at the event by having some great giveaways and felt it was time to reinvent the logo design to something fresher and more modern, something that residents and our partners will recognise. I am delighted with the new look design and it marks 2 great years of WERA.org.uk which continues to go from strength to strength year on year.”

Residents, visitors and VIP’s at the Weir Community Day were treated to association freebies such as pens, colouring pencils, coin trolley key rings and mugs [Pictured] which were all very popular on the Weir Estate Residents Association stall.

Dave added “This shows the associations commitment to continue to improve and develop for a better future for Weir Estate Residents and our standing in the community.”

Pens and merchandise is available from WERA and will be given to residents attending meetings.

The newly designed logo has already been added to the website and will be featured on all future publications issued by Weir Estate Residents Association.

Weir Estate buzzed with activity on Saturday 11th June as hundreds from across the community attended the Weir Community Day, organised by estate partners, Weir Estate Residents Association (WERA) and The Weir Link alongside the great and good of Lambeth including the Mayor of the borough Cllr Valcarcel, Leader of Lambeth Council Cllr Steve Reed, several Lambeth Council cabinet members, local MP Chuka Umunna, London Assembly member for Lambeth and Southwark, Valerie Shawcross; and the event was opened by Lambeth’s Metropolitan Police Borough Commander, Chief Superintendent Nick Ephgrave.

With music and entertainment provided by local radio station Generation Radio from Clapham Park and a steel band beating out old and new tunes, local people and Weir Estate residents were treated to an afternoon of fun and information provided by a number of service providers exhibiting such as Lambeth NHS, Lambeth Play Association, estate contractors Pinnacle PSG, Morrison Facilities Services and Thames Water along with many other stalls from the local police, other resident associations such as Molly Huggins which neighbours Weir Estate and Lilford Area Residents Association (LARA). Lambeth Living were also on hand to speak to residents and support the two groups.

The event was co-organised by WERA and the Weir Link who both had stalls at the event, to mark a strong community partnership in the area and bring the community on to the estate. Children were able to enjoy activities ranging from a large bouncy castle, a giant inflatable assault course and face painting. Adults were also able to pamper themselves at a pamper parlour in the Weir Link Nursery which laid on entertainment for the little ones while adults had their eyebrows shaped and primed along with henna painting. Lambeth NHS gave free health advice and checks to all ages and offered services ranging from sexual health, quit smoking advice, blood pressure checks and many other great essential community services. Many children service providers also came along.

With over fifty exhibitors on the day the event was alive with laughter and enjoyment of all ages.

Dave McEvoy, WERA Chair said “The event showcased the best of our community and we were delighted to share the success of the event with our community partners The Weir Link. We are thrilled with the many community services and groups who turned out to make this the best event the estate and our community have ever seen.  WERA and The Weir Link would like to thank everyone for coming and supporting us.”

Clare Ballard-Yawson, Weir Link Centre and Family Services Manager said following the event “Many people have commented that community day 2011 was the best yet, we think the result of the partnership working between The Weir Link and WERA has been key.  Unity is strength – an old but true belief.  Pooling resources to ensure maximum benefit for the whole community is the basis of community development and empowerment as well as value for money.  Willing volunteers is also the foundation of success for such an event. Thank you to all who helped in whatever way.”

The event was assisted by a team of volunteers who helped set up the event from across the community including two staff members of HSBC bank in Balham.

Visitors were treated to a wealth of free merchandise from the many exhibitors including WERA.

The event was praised by many of the special guests who attended, Val Shawcross of the London Assembly said “Well done to WERA and The Weir Link who worked so hard to put together what must be the best community organised day in the whole of London.  As well as a good time being had by all – especially the kids – what was noticeable was the fact the NHS and other public services were finding the event really useful in making contact with members of the public”

The Mayor of Lambeth Cllr Christiana Valcarcel praised the event as a ‘lovely day’ “The Weir Link and WERA is becoming a very popular event which has attracted the diversity of the community.  We had a big crowd this year and some new participating stalls like Thames Water which I hope most of you have signed up to receiving free water saving devices.  It was a lovely day.” This is the second year Cllr Valcarcel has attended the event as she was deputy mayor last year and attended in the place of the former Mayor.

Unfortunately the event had a low turn-out of Weir Estate residents but attracted many from across the rest of the area including other Lambeth estates. Refreshments were on offer and children were able to enjoy the many other fun activities while adults could get lots of great advice and information.

The Youth Mayor of Lambeth echoed the praise of the event as he attended his first Weir Community Day and praised plans to launch a Youth Action group in the future “What a fantastic day.  It was encouraging to see so many people getting involved with their local community.  Hopefully, more young people like me will see the benefits of becoming more active in their local area – the WERA Youth Action Group would be a good place to start!”

The event received a generous donation from Morrison Facilities Services and the rest of the event has been co-funded by WERA and The Weir Link working in partnership to highlight the work of both organisations.

Lambeth Living Central Area Manager Chris Adamson attended as part of the Lambeth Living stand said “Congratulations to Dave McEvoy and his team for a brilliant Community Day last Saturday. Helped by brilliant sunshine, WERA and The Weir Link put on a fantastic display of entertainment, food, information and community spirit which attracted hundreds of residents, local MP Chuka Umunna, Housing Cabinet member Cllr Lib Peck, the Mayor and many others.  From Lambeth Living I and a number of colleagues were delighted to play our small part in a great afternoon”

The Community day has been hailed as Thornton wards ‘Mini Lambeth Country Fair’ following the varied stalls and information on hand.

The Lambeth Borough Commander who opened the event said “I was delighted to attend the Weir Community Day last Saturday – the team had done a superb job in organising this fantastic event and even the weather smiled on us. This is a great example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a common purpose – the sense of pride in the estate and the determination of all the residents I met to solve local issues as they arise is inspiring”

Leader of Lambeth Council, Cllr Steve Reed hailed both organisations as an ‘inspiration’ “The Weir Link and WERA are an inspiration.  I thoroughly enjoyed Saturday’s event”

Cllr Lib Peck, Thornton Ward Councillor and Cabinet member for Housing added “It was such an impressive event.  It’s really good to see the NHS and other vital services having a chance to reach out to the local community.  The day was really well organised everyone was having a great time.”

The event also recognised three successful years of The Weir Link which opened its doors in June 2009 at the formerly named Weir Link Fun-day’ and the Community Day will be an annual event which organisers hope will be a bigger and better event every year.

Streatham constituency MP, Chuka Umunna who gave a speech to the crowds at the Weir Community Day praised the community effort of WERA and The Weir Link and labelled it the ‘perfect example of the real big society’ he said ““Weir Estate is the perfect example of how here in Lambeth we’ve been doing the “big society” for years – our active vibrant community shows what can be achieved when all the different players – voluntary groups, TRAs, faith groups, local government and parliamentarians – act in partnership  to help local communities help themselves”

The aim is now to grow the event every year to include more activities and community groups and services.

Below is a gallery of pictures from the day:

Damaged and un-kept refuse underground bin pods are to finally get some attention under a new Lambeth Living contract to repair and maintain all sixty one individual units across Lambeth estates including on Weir which has ten of the refuse pods.

With the units falling apart in which some believe is down to bad handling by the refuse collector company, Veolia and the containers below ground never being cleaned, finally Lambeth Living have begun negotiations on instructing a new contractor to repair and maintain the bins which were installed on Weir Estate five years ago.  The refuse pods replaced the old halogen bins and have rapidly become a popular system to storing waste across the country.

Following the installation of the new underground system, they remained in limbo with no long term contract to ensure that any damage was rectified and the metal containers cleaned which has angered many residents, who have regularly complained to their housing teams.

Weir Estate Residents Association Chair, Dave McEvoy has joined a tender panel to ensure that the best contractor is brought into repair all the bin on several council housing estates in Lambeth which have all suffered from damage and awful smells from stagnant water ingress and waste combined. Dave Said “The underground bins have been a bone of contention for a long time and have become an eyesore. I am delighted that finally Lambeth Living see this is a problem that needs addressing. I am confident that we will see the necessary repairs and maintenance carried out under a new vital contract.”

The current underground units have never been cleaned inside which will now take place under the new contract.

The underground bins emptied by a specialist crane lorry rather than traditional refuse lorry will have all broken or missing parts replaced with regular inspections to ensure no damage to inside ot outside the hoppers or the containers, seals or mechanisms.

Tendering processes are on-going and a decision will be reached by a Lambeth Living tender panel who met only recently and it is expected a maintenance contract will be in place within the next couple of months.

Dave McEvoy refused to name the tenders involved in the negotiations but said “There must also be discussions with the refuse collectors as there are clear issues about the handling of these pods and the damage sustained as a result, I will be encouraging Lambeth Living to tackle this problem and hope to ensure we get the correct company in place to maintain these systems on Lambeth Housing estates.”

Many estates have experienced similar problems with the systems and damage to surrounding areas. Weir Estate has at least six units which are damaged and in need of desperate repair.

Tender talks are on-going with the companies involved.

Weir Estate Residents Association and The Weir Link would like to thank all the exhibitors, volunteers, guests and members of the community who came along to make the Weir Community Day a truly wonderful day.

A full news story, and photographs of the event will be online within the next few days.

In 2009, Transport for London consulted stakeholders and the local community on proposals to extend the single decker 255 bus from Streatham to Balham taking in Weir Road and Old Devonshire Road along the planned route.

New proposals have been submitted for consideration as the plans to extend the single decker bus had been held up while other alternatives were considered and discussions took place between Lambeth and Wandsworth Council senior officers in order to tackle the concerns raised in the 2009 consultation surrounding noise, traffic issues, and parking changes.

Residents now can comment on the new set of adjustments to the route which are mainly focused on Old Devonshire Road with changes to the road layout and the relocation of the bus stop in the direction towards Streatham Hill terminus.

Several alternatives were considered following the previous consultation such as re-routing the bus down to Clapham South however this would increase the cost of the extension and not considered a suitable destination, TFL also considered whether it could run down other local roads but Old Devonshire Road is the favoured route due to the direct link to Balham High Road and the road and parking layout. Changes will be made to the junction with Balham High Road.

The new proposals only affect Old Devonshire Road and Transport for London believe this would encourage around 1200 extra bus journeys a day in the area while serving areas currently void of any public transport links such as Weir Estate and Hyde Farm areas.

Should the new proposals get approved the bus route would run from 05:50am to 00:50am Monday to Friday every 12 minutes Monday to Friday and every 20 minutes on weekends.  Weir Estate residents Association and residents have previously given their support to the new planned route citing it as hugely beneficial to the older residents living on the estate.

The latest consultation runs until Friday 15^th July 2011 and more information can and responses can be submitted via email to STEngagement@tfl.gov.uk.  Consultation documents will also be available the Weir Community Day this Saturday 11^th June 2011.

Plans to introduce the route had been held up while talks got under-way after some residents on Old Devonshire road raised issues relating to noise and vibration nuisance, despite having the Travis Perkins timber yard which supported the the proposals and who would be able to continue loading and unloading along Old Devonshire Road once the bus was implemented to ease traffic flow.

Passengers wishing to alight travelling in the direction of Balham would be able to do so at the exisiting stop on Balham High road by the Balham Beds shop before the bus continued onto Balham station.

WERA Chair, Dave McEvoy said “Residents have waited a long time for this route and many are keen for it to be implemented. Though we are sympathetic to our community neighbours, we believe the latest set of proposals more than adequately allay any concerns and TfL has provided conclusive solutions to these concerns. We hope to finally see this much needed bus extension bringing freedom to many not only living on Weir Estate but our entire community.”

London Assembly Member, Valerie Shawcross has been involved in tackling the issues raised and working with TFL to highlight the need for the bus extension along with Thornton local councillors who have been following the progress of the proposals.

There has been concerns that the route could be scrapped following government spending cuts however assurance has been given the funds for it are in place.
Below are the consultation documents (click to view)

Consultation Letter

Plans

Questionnaire

The Weir Community Day is taking place on Saturday, 11th June, and to ensure the safety of

Closures are as follows:

• Road in front of Quennel House (Closed from between Jewell and Glanville Houses)
• The road and parking spaces in front of Weir House (closed from between West and Olding Houses)
• Parking and Car Park in front of The Weir Link and access from Weir Road to this area.

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained during this time only.

Permission granted by Lambeth Living.

Supported by Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Team

Cllr Lorna Campbell, Lambeth Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, said: “I’m delighted that Lambeth residents are going to be the first in London to benefit from Recyclebank.”

“With residents’ help we have made great strides forward, increasing recycling levels across borough over the past few years, and we are confident that Recyclebank will help us to go even further. This scheme is an important part of our plans to reduce waste costs, boost recycling and make Lambeth a cleaner and greener place to live.”

The implementation of the Recyclebank programme launched today at Windrush Square in Brixton is in partnership with waste management provider, Veolia Environmental Services. The scheme is a key part of Lambeth Council’s plans to encourage more people to recycle and save costs by reducing the amount the borough has to pay for waste disposal every year.

The initiative, will allow 51,000 multi-occupancy households including Weir Estate residents to start earning points for their recycling efforts.  If it is successful, it is planned that the Council will roll out the programme to all residents in the borough within 12 months. This will allow all residents in the borough to benefit from the rewards for recycling.

Recyclebank will be deploying a new version of its programme in Lambeth, whereby residents will let Recyclebank know that they have recycled each week, either online (www.recyclebank.com), by phone or through a free iPhone app.

Members will receive an initial 300 point bonus on registration sponsored, which has been sponsored by Coca-Cola, and then 10 points each week they report their recycling efforts. A further monthly points top up, based on the amount recycled in the area, is also available.

So far over 100 local reward partners from all over the Lambeth have been recruited to take part in the initiative providing rewards from health and beauty to discounts on takeaway meals, along with national partners such as Coca-Cola and Marks & Spencer.  Over the coming months, even more new reward partners will join up to the programme, increasing the range of exciting rewards that are available.

Cllr Lib Peck, Lambeth Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Thornton Ward Councillor, added: “Recyclebank is a fantastic way for residents on Lambeth housing estates to earn discounts on a range of goods and services, while at the same time benefiting the environment and helping the borough reduce waste disposal costs.”

Sue Igoe, UK Managing Director of RecycleBank, said: “We are incredibly excited to be working with Lambeth Council. As well as being the first London borough to offer a recycling rewards scheme to its residents, Lambeth will be the first to introduce our new community solution, which has been developed to tackle the challenging issues of recycling in flats head on.

“By implementing the scheme, the local authority will enjoy economic benefits through the potential reduction in waste disposal costs and taxes, while retail partners will gain visibility, customer brand loyalty and the reputation of an environmentally conscious company.

“Residents take an active role in helping the environment and are rewarded with vouchers for goods and services through the points they gain. The scheme offers real benefits for all parties involved and we look forward to giving even more residents the power to participate.”

WERA’s Chair, Dave McEvoy attended the launch and said afterwards “We get a lot of problems with people cross-contaminating the recycling bins with non-recyclable waste on our estate.  I think Recyclebank will be a great way to encourage residents to do their bit for the environment and manage their recycling by properly separating out their waste and preventing it from filling up landfill sites and getting rewards for it.”

“Weir Estate Residents can look forward to earning some superb discounts as part of this and will be making sure my neighbours, family and friends across Lambeth are aware of this brilliant concept and benefit from the rewards on offer for doing something we all should be doing to cut our carbon foot-print anyway, WERA is pleased to promote this and support the scheme.”

Weir Estate and all Lambeth residents on housing estates can now join the free scheme and can register online at Recyclebank.com, or by phone 0844 409 9490.  Residents can track how many points they have collected online, by phone or on a free iPhone app available through the website and the iPhone application store.

Eligible residents have been sent information packs explaining how the scheme works.

WERA Chair Dave McEvoy signing the contract with Mike Stockley, Director SSG Landscapes.

Work to the disused area soon to be a new Community Garden has grown closer, following the signing of a contract with SSG Landscapes Construction Ltd who are to undertake the preparation works such as repairing walls, installing the fences and two gates on the site situated on Anfield Close.

Preparation work will commence later this month and continue until the beginning of June 2011 where the damaged walls will be stitched back together in order to make them safe before works to install new metal railings begin within the next few weeks.

The contract signed on the site of the new Weir Community Garden by Chair, Dave McEvoy and SSG Director, Mike Stockley.  The contract signing was overseen by Lambeth Landscape Architect Caroline Fraser at the end of last week who will also act as the contract administrator.

SSG Landscape Construction was chosen following a six week tendering process by Lambeth Living and was chosen for its price and reputation of carrying out works on behalf of the council and its ALMO. The highly respected contractor will move onto site to get works underway on the 24^th May 2011 as well as carrying out repairs to the children’s play park in the centre of the estate as part of a borough wide park improvement program.

Dave McEvoy, WERA’s Chair said “This is an exciting step forward for what will be a great community project and brighten a boring and unused part of our estate. We are delighted to appoint SSG to get the work started after a couple of years of hard work to bring this project together. The signing of this contract is a major step forward and we look forward to moving on with the project.”

Following the preparation works Touchwood Trees appointed to install the cottage feel garden will then take over and will be on course to open by the start of August in time for a warm summer.

Sealing the deal: Mike Stockley and WERA Chair Dave McEvoy shake hands following the contract signing.

Mike Stockley said following their appointment “We are delighted to be contracted by the Residents Association to undertake these works.  Their creative plans will develop an underused area into a friendly cottage garden providing an environmental haven.  We wish them every success for the future with this superb project.”

A team from the contractor will arrive on site from the 24th May and work will be overseen by Caroline Fraser and WERA officers.

The plans and ideas for the garden will be on display at the Weir Community Day and Touchwood Trees will be developing the first community mosaic for installation into the garden at the event. More details can be found on this at www.wera.org.uk/events.  WERA will also be providing residents and local people who will all benefit from the new community space the opportunity to share ideas and give feedback as well as sign up to get involved.

Dave added “This is the first major step in to the works happening and from here on in, the important emphasis will be on the community and getting people involved in making this a wonderful community space regardless of knowledge, ability or background.”

You can follow the progress of the garden project on the Community Garden page HERE

It is believed Jamie gave up his home on Anfield Close ‘due to personal circumstances’.  Jamie didn’t inform any WERA members of his unexpected departure and now Weir Estate is seeking a new vice chair to fill the position.

Jamie was elected at the associations February AGM by unanimous vote after neighbours nominated him making him the youngest person to be an executive officer.  It is believed that personal difficulties had led to Jamie vacating his home due to personal and private issues a WERA statement has announced.

The WERA statement reads ‘We are saddened and disappointed to announce the departure of Jamie Speirs as Vice Chair and executive officer, sadly WERA was not informed of this but we now understand Jamie has left his property he rented from a private landlord and therefore has withdrawn from his association post due to what we believe are personal and private circumstances.’

It goes on to add ‘We are shocked that he left so suddenly and so soon after being elected without letting us know, but we appreciate that circumstances dictated his departure.  We would like to wish him well for the future where ever he has gone and hope that he is able to sort out his personal issues.  Our focus now turns to finding a replacement vice chair to take up the position as soon as possible.’

Mr Speirs, 21 lived on Weir Estate for two years with his girlfriend and is believed to have left the estate last month. He showed a keen interest in taking up the challenges and supporting the Chair, Dave McEvoy.

The vice-chair position supports the Chair in the running of the association and overseeing meetings and organisation along with two other executive officers.  Details of the position can be found HERE. It is an important senior WERA position which is vital to the running of association business. It is a voluntary position that takes up little time to carry out.

Jamie was unavailable for comment and nobody from WERA would comment further.

If you are a Weir Estate resident and wish to fulfil this position or would like more information on what is involved you can email WERA at info@wera.org.uk

Weir Estate Children will soon be without a play area for up to six weeks as Lambeth Living carry out essential health and safety works to repair the play equipment as part of an extensive cross borough programme to restore safe play equipment to Lambeth’s one hundred and eighty play parks.

All the current play equipment is to be fixed by a Lambeth contractor, SSC who are expected to get repair works underway within the next few weeks. Lambeth Living have assured WERA officers that works will be prioritised after the association raised concerns about it impacting on the Community Day event on 11th June.

WERA has also requested that the soft play surface is also renewed as it has been coming up in areas presenting a trip hazard. The works are being funded from a Lambeth Living health and safety repairs budget.

The play area which was originally funded by WERA some years ago has suffered from dogs chewing the handles of certain equipment and years of use from children which has either had them broken or unsafe to use.

The park could well be closed for the six weeks though the works should be completed a lot sooner in order to give a safe play area for children to play in. Last year works had to be carried out to repair the slide.

The gates will be sealed during May while works commence.

Caroline Fraser, Lambeth Living’s Landscape Architect Programme Manager explained “The work to the playground is part of a programme of essential Health & Safety repairs across all 180 estate playgrounds across the borough to ensure continued safety in playgrounds. The playground is not currently unsafe but we are trying to ensure the play equipment is maintained to ensure safety in the future. Works have already started in the South housing areas and the contractor will then move to the Central housing areas. At Weir Estate the playground equipment is generally in good condition (compared to the majority of playgrounds on estates) and there are a few small repairs to be undertaken to damaged equipment.”

A notice had been placed on the inside of the play park fence to inform residents.

WERA will continue to monitor the works and will provide future updates on the work here at www.wera.org.uk

WERA’s chair Dave McEvoy said “We welcome the work to the play park to preserve the safety of the children on Weir Estate. We have been disappointed that WERA wasn’t originally informed of this planned works as so we could have made residents aware but it is positive that the play equipment will be made safe for the younger residents to use safely for years to come.”

Long awaited plans to develop a brand new community garden, in a disused area of Weir Estate could be opening its gates within the next couple of months according to WERA’s Chair, Dave McEvoy who has led on the project.

The space in a corner of Anfield Close is being developed to provide a cottage garden feel for Weir Estate Residents, and the local community. A consultation with neighbouring properties provided no objections to the project and now Lambeth Living are carrying out a tender to get preparation works underway such as the removal of the bollards, a self-rooted tree and the damaged wall surrounding the sites dominant larger tree.

There had been concerns from tree specialists as to the extent of the impact on the roots of the big tree should the tarmac be dug up, though appointed designers and environmental and community garden specialists, Touchwood Trees have decided not to remove the tarmac and instead opting to use this as a base.

The first phase of the tendering process and appointing of a contractor should get underway within the next couple weeks after which works will begin to prepare the area. Touchwood Tree’s will then host community days for residents to get involved expected to start at the Estate’s Community Day event on the 11^th June.

A design has been chosen though due to the preservation of the main tree has been adjusted and will be available at the June event for viewing and comments by residents and local people.

Dave McEvoy, WERA Chair Said “I am confident that the Community Garden will be underway within a few weeks and be ready for the start of this summer. I hope residents will come out and get involved in making it happen in order to make it a real community effort to bring the garden in reality. A lot of hard work has gone into this and it will be an amazing space for local residents to enjoy.”

“We are working hard with our partners to get the garden blooming this year for all to enjoy regardless of green fingered ability. This is a very exciting time for us and I am looking forward to seeing it get underway.”

The project has been over a year in the planning and has overcome various hurdles. The entire project is being funded by Weir Estate Residents Association (WERA).

Residents will be able to get involved in developing the garden and such projects within it such as mosaic making, planting, potting, and building of installations. Various other community partners have also agreed to dig in such as the local policing Safer Neighbourhood Team officers.

WERA and Touchwood trees will have information on the garden at the community day as part of their stands.

If you are interested or want to know more, please do not hesitate to get in touch via the CONTACT US page HERE.

You can follow the progress of the Community Garden by visiting our page HERE

A council project known as ‘FreshView’ which is run by the local authority has returned to Weir Estate and Thornton Ward to paint the estate’s exterior railings.

About a dozen supervised young offenders donned overalls and repainted iron railings surrounding Weir Estate which had been replaced last year as part of co-operated project between WERA and Lambeth Living and the Breyer Group.

Councillors Ed Davie, Diana Morris and Lib Peck talked to the young people and the council staff carrying out the work and thanked them for their efforts in which the art deco boundary railings have been refreshed and given a new coat of paint.

Weir Estate Residents Association chair, Dave McEvoy also joined the group and made a brief speech to pass on the gratitude of local people for the hard work that was making a contribution to improving the area.

Dave said “We would like to thank the young people and FreshView for providing this fantastic improvement to Weir Estate. The young people who took part as part of their community punishment should be proud they have made a difference today to this community for 100’s of people on Weir Estate and improved the appearance of the area and restored these railings to their former glory.”

“This scheme is a fantastic way for young offenders to give back to the community and right their wrongs. We are truly grateful.”

Local Councillor for Thornton Ward, Ed Davie said “This is a great scheme that uses constructive, helpful activity to help young people learn from their mistakes rather than lock them up at great expense and for little gain. We are grateful to them for their efforts and hope they feel they have done something worthwhile certainly local people like Dave think so and have thanked them.

“I’m sure that if the young people feel valued and that people care about them and their community they will be less likely to commit crime in the future.”

Works to restore the railings on the outer wall of the estate and fences throughout Weir Estate was completed last year but still required painting which would have been at the expense of WERA which was quoted at over thirty thousand pounds. The works to repaint the original railings will now save thousands for the association.

FreshView is also carrying out other improvements across the entire area as part of the council led scheme.  Originally a twelve month pilot scheme, FreshView began in 2006 covering selected wards in the borough. The success of the scheme led to it becoming permanent and it has now expanded to cover the entire borough.

More information about the FreshView project can be found here

Detectives from Trident are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Following the shooting of a man believed to now be in his twenties was attended to by London Ambulance Service (LAS) and found the man suffering a gunshot wound to the head. He was confirmed dead at the scene.

An incident room has been opened under DCI Gordon Allison (Operation Trident). Detectives investigating are keeping an open mind as to any motive for the fatal shooting. Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the Plummer Road / Poynders Road area between 10:00hrs and 11:30hrs, and who may have seen or heard anything that might assist the investigation.

PC Wood from the Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) said in a statement released by Trident “Thornton SNT wishes to make it very clear that this is seen as a one off incident and is NOT related to any gang activity or an increase in youth crime. There is no intelligence suggests that there are likely to be any repercussions following this incident.”

Two people are currently in custody in relation to this incident and the investigation is on-going, conducted by highly trained Operation Trident detectives and the scene now focuses on a small area around where the victim was discovered following the area being sealed off to traffic and the public and buses diverted.

Should local residents have any concerns a reassurance meeting is being held at the Community Resource Centre, Headlam Road SW4 between 10am and 12noon on Monday 18th April 2011.  Click Here for further information

A WERA Spokesman said “We would firstly like to offer our sympathies to the deceased man’s family and friends. This is a very sad event that is being made clear is an isolated incident and there is no need for alarm. We are committed to working with the safer neighbourhood team to ensure that our estate and the surrounding area is kept safe. Our ward as consistently had very low crime rate and we are sure all is being done to reassure residents.”

The killing comes just weeks after Soloman Sarfo, 34, was stabbed to death in Tilson Gardens on the same estate on February 28th.

Local Councillors have joined the police in appealing for witnesses who may have been in the area to come forward. Thornton ward councillor, Ed Davie, said: “I would appeal to people in the community to speak to police if they saw or heard or anything to do with the incident. We need to get the information out that can help find out the cause of acts of violence.
“There is no reason to link the two incidents but it’s obviously very shocking to have two violent deaths in the ward in such a short space of time.”

An incident room has been opened under Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Allison from Trident. Anyone with information should call the incident room on 0208 247 4554 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Transport for London Bus Routes 35, 37, 137, 417, 689, 690, N35 and N137 will be diverted from Monday 21 March for 8 weeks because of Thames Water works in Clapham Park Road.

Clapham Park Road will be closed (towards Clapham Common station) because of these works.

Please see the map below for your nearest stop whilst this work is taking place. Buses will serve all stops on diversion.

Click here for the TfL poster which will be displayed at bus stops.

Homes on Weir Estate have been made even safer following a fire safety visit from crews at Tooting Fire Station. Residents were given fire safety advice and had smoke alarms fitted free of charge during the fire safety day at the weekend.

A team of fire-fighters and two fire appliances attended Weir Estate as part of a day organised by London Fire Brigade’s Green Watch at Tooting Fire Station.  The estate visit which took place over the course of Saturday was organised by Green Watch’s Watch Manager, Jackie McConchie and the Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT).   The visit was supported by Weir Estate Residents Association.
Every property on Weir Estate along with others on Weir Road, were called upon during the free event which offered residents free advice and the first defence in a house fire which can save lives in the crucial moments following a house fire, smoke alarms.  Thirty one properties had smoke alarms fitted and many others were given advice as LFB adopt a prevention approach to tackling house fires across London as a brigade priority.

Following previous fires in other blocks of flats across London, such as the devastating fire at Lakanel House in Camberwell in 2009, where six people were killed, London Fire Brigade are actively offering safety advice to more homes, which could prove critical in preventing loss of life particularly in blocks of flats where damage can be even more wide spread.

Advice given as part of the visits to homes focused on reducing the risk of fire and areas of concern such as overloading electrical sockets or leaving electrical items switched on when they are not in use, leaving cooking unattended, not disposing of cigarettes properly, portable heating too close to combustible materials (i.e. sofas and furnishings) and candles left unattended, not in correct holders or too close to combustibles; following a spate of fires in the area caused by such circumstances.

From Left to Right: PC Rob Wood (Thornton SNT), Dave McEvoy (Chair, WERA), Jackie McConochie (Green Watch Manager, LFB Tooting Fire Station)

Green Watch Manager, Jackie McConochie said following the visit “Having advised residents on preventing fire we gave advice on how to escape a fire if residents are unlucky enough to experience one in their homes by planning and maintaining escape routes and testing and maintaining their smoke alarms.”
Jackie added “As a result of our visit and the advice we were able to give, I’m confident that the residents of Weir Estate are now safer from the risk of fire.”

WERA and LFB will now work together to secure a strong rapport for future projects such as youth engagement as part of the planned WERA Youth Action Forum (YAF) and the forthcoming Community Fun Day expected to be held in June this year.  One estate child was delighted to be able to explore the fire engine which was parked on the estate during the day’s visit.
PC Rob Wood from Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Team also attended to support the day and show an active presence as part of a collaboration to make the estate and community safer.
WERA’s chair Dave McEvoy spoke of his delight at the visit and future prospects of working with the crew at Tooting Fire Station “This visit has proved successful in that more homes and residents can sleep soundly in their beds thanks to the community approach to fire safety by the exceptional team at LFB Tooting.  The work of the fire brigade is outstanding and I am delighted that we have been able to establish a partnership with them, and that this event will potentially save lives and homes. We are immensely grateful to LFB for arranging this event and the combined efforts of PC Wood from the SNT who came along to show a thriving partnership with WERA, something we now hope to be able to progress with LFB for the benefit of residents on Weir Estate.”

Sadly more residents did not take up the free opportunity to receive advice and further smoke detection devices alongside the ones fitted during the major works carried out by Lambeth Living last year, though those residents who were unavailable or did not allow access during the days visit can call the LFB call centre on 08000 28 44 28 to make a free appointment, or you can click here.

Jackie McConochie urged “If anyone missed us on the day I’d urge them to call the free phone number and make an appointment and we will be more than happy to re-visit them.”

Following other fires in blocks such as the one at Lakanel House, Lambeth Living and Lambeth Council have established a strict policy of keeping communal stairwells and balconies clear from items which could prevent escape during a fire. This is enforced by estate officers.

WERA encourages all residents on Weir Estate and those visiting www.wera.org.uk to consider your fire safety, check your smoke alarms and contact London Fire Brigade if you wish to get a smoke alarm or additional devices.  The service is free!

You can find more information visiting the London Fire Brigade website, or Lambeth Living’s Safety section, who can be emailed at firesafety@lambethliving.org.uk.

Weir Estate Residents Association has confirmed the chosen design for the new community garden on Weir Estate. The chosen design is by educational and environmental company, Touchwood Trees Ltd who will implement the residents association’s new project.

The association’s executive committee have had to select a design which will transform the currently disused, wasted area in the south-west corner of the estate, by Anfield Close. Touchwood Trees led by Karen Wydler, has been chosen for its commitment to encouraging education and environmental credentials which will focus on getting residents involved unlike the other designs the association considered. Due to time restrictions and pressure from Lambeth Living bosses, a decision on who will carry out the work had to be taken in order to ensure it went ahead this year.

Touchwood Trees regenerate and transform public spaces both urban and rural, to create healthy and diverse environments that are creatively stimulating, educational and that function in providing habitat richness and aesthetic value.

A mosaic of a greek bee in another garden done by Torchwood Trees

They specialise in public and community artworks, combined with habitat creation and environmental education. They also specialise in producing wooden sculptures and furniture, murals and mosaics, landscaping and food gardens in towns, schools, hospitals and public parks, all features which will be incorporated into the Weir Estate community garden.

The design will have a cottage garden feel, and encourage involvement and enjoyment for all ages. The garden will have a mosaic as the central point of the flooring along with two other eye catching mosaics throughout the garden which will be pieced together as part of the community involvement aspect of the project.

WERA Chair Dave McEvoy announced the chosen design and designers after considering two other prospective designs. Dave explains “We have chosen Touchwood Trees as we believe they have the mantra we wish to see as the main focus of our exciting community garden. They have the involvement of residents at the heart from start to finish; we were very impressed with their ideas. They have the added bonus in having a wealth of experience in engagement with communities, encouraging education and valuable knowledge and experience in the environmental aspects of implementing such a project, this is very important to us.”

Dave added “We are delighted to be working with them and are very much looking forward to seeing their design come to life in the next few months.”

A herb garden and hut done by Torchwood Trees

Provisional works to prepare the area and erection of secure metal fencing will be carried out by an agreed contractor appointed through a tendering process, which is being carried out by Lambeth Living on behalf of the association. The area will still remain the property of Lambeth Housing, but will be managed by WERA once the garden is complete.

Karen Wydler said following the announcement “The Touchwood Trees team are really pleased to have been selected to work with Weir Estate resident’s to create a beautiful community garden. It will be a great opportunity to open up this corner of the estate and make a unique resource for year- round use by all members of the community.”

WERA, along with Touchwood trees are continuing to work with Lambeth Living’s Landscape Architect to ensure that all aspects of the garden have little impact on nearby residents and those nearest the area will shortly be consulted and informed about the idea. An open day for all residents to see the designs and offer their views, as well as register their interest in getting involved once the works get underway will be held; once these details are confirmed we will inform residents.

The garden will be a space of relaxation and growing of herbs and vegetables as well as focusing on education in horticulture. Local children will be encouraged to come along, and get involved.

The garden is expected to open this summer.

You can see the chosen design and find out more about Touchwood Trees as well as the project by clicking HERE and visit to find out more about Touchwood trees by visiting their website HERE

WERA are also encouraging residents to contact their association should they have any questions which you can do by going HERE

Labour councillors, Lib Peck, Diana Morris and newly elected last year as ward councillor, Ed Davie were commended at the Weir Estate Annual General Meeting for their contribution in tackling the many issues that arose in 2010. The three councillors regularly worked with and supported executive officers and residents alike in issues relating to the windows, parking and mobile phone masts among many others.

At the AGM, WERA’s Chair praised their commitment to working with the association and hailed them as ‘great for the image of local politicians’ and for community relations with the council. He also went onto to praise their regular attendance at association meetings where at least one of the three councillors has attended.

The three councillors were also praised in their associations end of year report published last week and now available on the WERA Website (See Publications tab) ‘We have been very fortunate to have such a good understanding and working relationship with all three of our councillors who all regularly attend our meetings, taking up issues promptly and effectively. Their input has been invaluable and has provided us the opportunity to achieve many great results on and around the estate.’

Over thirty Weir Estate residents applauded the work of the three councillors as they were thanked for their continued support of Weir Estate residents association.

The end of year report goes onto to add ‘it is fair to say we at WERA have a special relationship with our ward councillors who are true asset to local politics and our community. We would like to formally thank them for their unwavering support and backing over the course of 2010 to officers, residents and our association. Much of what has been achieved would not have been accomplished without the three councillors we have. I am very confident this relationship and essential partnership will continue to grow and continue to provide a benefit to Weir Estate.’

Cllr Ed Davie who joined his two elected representatives after being successfully elected to succeed former councillor, Michael Hipwell was singled out for his great start to supporting the estate and getting involved in the report ‘Councillor Ed Davie has been a great addition to the team of three ward councillors.’

Councillor Ed Davie said: “It was very touching for us to have been recognised in this way by an association that has worked tirelessly, and very successfully, to improve the lives of residents. It is an objective we share and we are very happy to contribute in any way we can to support the estate’s exemplary leadership and community spirit.”

The three councillors from the local Labour group were all re-elected by increased majority across the ward despite the national defeat of Labour in the 2010 May local elections. The elections also saw Councillor Lib Peck take up her redefined role of the council’s Cabinet member for Housing.

You can find the details of the ward councillors by visiting our page HERE or by visiting their community site www.thorntonlife.org.uk

WERA would like to once again thank our councillors for their on-going support to the association and we look forward to working with during 2011.

You can read the full WERA End of year report from the chair by clicking HERE

Priorities which will be the main focus of the work of the association for the coming year and the new slogan have been agreed and unveiled following the recent association Annual General Meeting. The association will use the agreed priorities to continue to bring about further improvements to the estate, and tackle issues highlighted by members and the previous year.

Alongside the new priorities, a new slogan has been adopted to represent the work of the association and encourage residents to get involved in the work of WERA.

The list of priorities is one of the longest agreed on by the association with eight as the main aims and a further list of side priorities which are certain to make 2011 one of the toughest years for Weir Estate’s association.

The new slogan which now features on the wera.org.uk website has been announced as ‘Our Community, One Voice’ will now form the basis of the year ahead.

The eight priorities can be found on this website under the ‘About Us’ tab will see drastic changes to the future of Weir Estate and aim to ensure long term sustainability to the association and protection from freezing pipes following the loss of water to a number of resident’s homes just before the Christmas break as well as focus on crime in and around the estate.

WERA’s Chair, Dave McEvoy who was re-elected into his fourth term at the AGM on the 8^th February said “WERA and Weir Estate Residents are committed to ensuring we receive the best level of service, and continue to develop the successes we have had during the previous year. We have the new slogan of our community, one voice, which is designed to let residents know that their association is all about them and their needs as Lambeth residents but we must stand united to make things happen. We have a tough year ahead but will do all we can as always to meet the tasks ahead which are set out by these priorities.”

The WERA executive and committee members will also consider the end of year report recommendations (which can be found HERE) made by the chair in his summary of the 2010 activities of the association. “The works to improve the estate will take many forms and considerable work, but I am confident with the team we have and the dedication of residents we will be able to achieve our targets for 2011” added Dave.

A crime priority was added following an increase in street robberies along Atkins Road adjoining the estate.  This will involve working closely with the local policing team and will be discussed at future meetings with the Borough Commander of Lambeth Police. This will be published here on wera.org.uk in future.

Lambeth Police Borough Commander has launched the new project this week and announced that a new initiative of Local Policing Teams (LPT’s) who will work alongside Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT’s) such as the one in Thornton Ward.

The new project offers an innovative new approach to the use of response police officers, with the aim of improving the local policing service to the public such as estates in Lambeth like Weir Estate.  A proportion of the existing emergency response police officers will be dedicated to those calls which require urgent attention through the 999 system.

Urgent response calls are only a part of the overall volume of calls from the public.  The change means that a smaller number of response officers will deal with a reduced number of calls – those needing our swiftest response.

The aim is to use the officers ‘freed up’ from the overall pool of response officers in innovative new ways to serve the public.  Most of the ‘freed up’ officers will form Local Policing Teams (LPTs).  They will deal with the volume of less urgent calls from the public – those issues which the public regard as important, but where they understand an urgent response is not required.  This will include meeting people by appointment, which is convenient to them.

A further major benefit for the people of Lambeth is that the LPTs will also be used to supplement and enhance the work of Safer Neighbourhoods Teams (SNTs).

There are 21 SNTs in the 21 electoral wards in Lambeth.  These 21 wards will be aligned into 6 clusters. The map identifies those clusters in which wards are grouped which naturally fit best together. Each cluster will have a dedicated Inspector who will be the public point of contact.

The existing SNTs in the 21 wards will remain committed to their wards.  Hannah does not involve any change to the underlying SNT model in Lambeth.  However, the ward/SNT clusters will share the services of more than 100 constables in the LPTs. Each cluster will have a minimum 14 constables with Brixton having a minimum of 22.  LPTs will help Lambeth Borough police provide an increased local visible presence and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.  LPTs and SNTs will work a shift pattern which reflects the demand profile of the borough.

Lambeth police’s Borough Commander, Superintendent Nick Ephgrave said “I am pleased to inform you that Lambeth will be implementing Project Hannah from Monday 14th February 2011. Hannah will create opportunities to significantly enhance local neighbourhood policing as well as maintaining our emergency response capability.

The borough Commander added “We are working closely with our local authority community safety colleagues to ensure the success of local partnership working.  Further updates will continue to be published throughout the year.”

WERA will continue to work closely with the Thornton Safer Neighbourhood Team which under the new structure has a new Sergeant and a new Inspector.

Chair Dave McEvoy said of the changes “We at WERA welcome anything that will tackle crime and help us to continue to keep residents safe; both, on, or around Weir Estate. We continue to have a strong relationship with our SNT team and look forward to working closely with the new LPT team.”

Weir Estate continues to have some of the lowest reported crimes in the borough though concerns have recently be raised about robberies along Atkins Road.

WERA’s Chair added “We would like to welcome the new team Sergeant and Inspector and as this is a priority for us as an estate and an association we will do all we can to ensure it works for us.”

Weir Estate continues to have a liaison officer in PCSO Karen Rose.  WERA will be meeting the new Sergeant and Inspector in the very near future.

For more information about Thornton SNT, see here

The Weir Link is asking for your help in their survey of users and local residents.

The Weir Link would like to find out from you what you think about their services so that they can improve them and plan for the future based on what you tell them.

Also, Children’s Centres should make a difference to the lives of the children and parents/carers that use Centres and so they’d like to find out from you if the Weir Link has made a difference.  If they have – how have they made a difference and if not, why.

The information will be invaluable for the Weir Link’s upcoming Ofsted inspection and for the local charities current fund-raising.

Everyone who completes the survey form will be given a number which will be entered in a prize draw with £50 vouchers as a prize.
Survey Forms can be picked up at the centre or downloaded here in PDF or MS WORD

The completed survey can be handed in person at The Weir Link, 33 Weir Road, SW12 0NU, or email to info@theweirlink.org, and feel free to email with any comments.

OPPORTUNITY TO WIN £50 VOUCHERS!!! PRIZE DRAW MARCH 1st

Neil Litherland has been appointed interim Chief Executive of Lambeth Living, following the resignation of Cathy Deplessis two weeks ago.

Neil has a track record of achievement in local government and housing. As Deputy Chief Executive of Camden Council he played a key role as the north London borough became the highest rated council in the country.

As Director of Housing and Adult Social Care for Camden, Neil transformed a housing service to reach a three star standard highly regarded by its 35,000 tenants and leaseholders.

In a career spanning 25 years, Neil also held senior housing positions at Bolton Council and Kirklees Council.

Neil said: “I am looking forward to helping Lambeth Living improve services to tenants and leaseholders.”

Lynn Holman, Vice Chair of Lambeth Living’s Board, said: “Neil brings a wealth of housing experience and he will help Lambeth Living to focus directly on improving services to residents.”

Cllr Lib Peck, Lambeth Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Thornton Ward councillor, added: “Neil has a track record in turning around organisations and the skills needed to build partnerships and improve key services.”

Neil takes up the post immediately for an initial six month period.

Is there anyone you think deserves recognition for their kind actions? Maybe a friend, colleague or someone you know in the Lambeth community. The council would like to thank such people on behalf of those who live in our area.

Nominations are sought from anybody who believes they know someone who should be recognised.
Awards will take the form of the ‘Town Centres’ (North Lambeth, Brixton, Clapham & Stockwell, Norwood and Streatham), a borough-wide award and the ‘Lord Scarman’ award. The Lord Scarman award will be awarded to the person who has contributed to developing, increasing, or promoting equality and inclusion in the areas of race, gender, disability, age, sexuality, religion or belief and achieving or encouraging achievement in challenging circumstances.
Nomination forms are available in all Lambeth libraries and in the reception area at Lambeth Town Hall, or download a nomination form.

The Mayor of Lambeth will present those honoured with a framed certificate at an evening awards ceremony on Wednesday 30 March 2011.
For further information, contact the Mayor’s Office on 020 7926 2120.

Deadline: Monday 21 February 2011

The Chief Executive of Lambeth Living, Cathy Deplessis, has resigned at a board meeting held on Wednesday evening.

Cathy Deplessis’ departure came at the company’s board meeting and was announced by chairman Keith Hill.

He said: “I’m sure you will be aware by now that Cathy Deplessis has announced she is standing down from her position. On my behalf, I would like to get on record we are thankful for all the good work that she has done as chief executive.”

Mr Hill said the board would be now working to find a replacement.

Mrs Deplessis, who was not present at the meeting, had held the post at Lambeth Living for almost 2 years.

The resignation is the latest setback for Lambeth Living, with Director of Property Services David Thompson resigning with immediate effect just before christmas.

We are awaiting a press release from Lambeth Living with details of the Interim Chief Executive.

Come back during the next few days, when we should have further information on Lambeth Living’s interim arrangements.