HYDE PARK WARD LABOUR ACTION REPORT – November 2022
News from your Hyde Park Labour Councillors – Judith Southern, Md Shamsed Chowdhury and Paul Dimoldenberg
Dear Resident,
We hope that all is well. It has been another few weeks of activity right across the ward.
Late night walkabout
We did a late-night walk around the stress zones of the ward with the Marble Arch BID Street Team and experienced their everyday foot patrol task of reporting crime, fly-tipping, ASB & homelessness. Thank you to the Team for showing us around and sharing your insights. During our walk we also met the Hyde Park Estate Security Croma Vigilant and discussed their night operation in the ward.
Waste Action Squad in Hyde Park Ward
In the week of 10th October, the new Waste Action Squad started in Hyde Park Ward. The key facts and figures are:
- 258 people were engaged with in the Hyde Park Ward
- 2/3rd of people spoken to thought rubbish and litter were not a problem in the local area
- 1/3rd thought it was an issue and gave information into where and what was driving this
- Conducted 76 waste investigations and took 22 enforcement actions
- This includes issuing 12 Section 47 Notices to businesses, serving them notice of specific concerns relating to highway staining and leaking waste
- Deep cleaned 10 hotspot dumping locations within the ward
We hold a regular advice surgery at St John’s Parish Hall, Hyde Park Crescent, on the first Thursday of the month from 6-7pm. The next advice surgery will be on Thursday 1st December, 6pm-7pm.
Please let us know if we can be of help or assistance on any local issues.
NEWS AND ACTION
The Hyde Park Estate area, bounded by Edgware Road/Bayswater Road and Sussex Gardens
Westbourne Street
The Council is continuing to issue fines to those responsible for dumping outside 20/21 Westbourne Street. We have now asked the Council to install CCTV cameras to film those responsible ‘in the act’.
Bathurst Street
Following recent heavy winds, a large branch of a tree has broken off in Bathurst Street and we asked for the branch to be removed from the road and pavement.
Clarendon Mews
We have contacted the Street Lighting Team to ask if they have had any success in sourcing a suitable lantern to replace the existing light fitting in the archway at the entrance to Clarendon Mews. Also, we have asked for the very heavy weed growth in Clarendon Mews to be cleared away. The Waste Team say, “We visited the site this morning and found some weed growth and arranged for it to be removed.” The next day, residents reported, “the weeding has been carried out and everything looks a lot better. I appreciate your help.”
Clarendon Place
We have alerted the Street Lighting Team to the new lighting to the rear of 1 and 6 Clarendon Place which is on 24 hours per day.
Kendal Street/Portsea Place
We have asked the Waste Team to put a camera up at the junction of Kendal Street and Portsea Place following further dumping of furniture and other household rubbish. This is not acceptable and we know who the culprits might be, so let’s catch them in the act.
Radnor Mews
We have asked the Street Lighting team to fix the broken light at the northern entrance to the Mews.
Sussex Square lighting – update
The Street Lighting Team tell us that “lamp column 6 Sussex Square had a faulty part that required replacement and it was awaiting delivery. This has been received now and is being installed tomorrow.”
Park West
We met with Freshwater to discuss the growing problems caused by increasing numbers of Airbnb short-term lettings at Park West and the problems being caused for residents. We agreed that the Council will work closer with Freshwater to take action against leaseholders who are breaking the terms of their lease and infringing the planning regulations by continued unauthorised short-term lettings.
Park West Place
We asked the Highways Team to fix a pothole at the entrance to Park West Place. “A job has been raised for the pothole in question, with a patch of 1.5 x 1.5 being issued for remedial action,” say the Team.
Also, the Tree Team has confirmed that a new tree will be planted shortly in the empty tree pit.
Portsea Place
We have asked the Parking Team to investigate this issue:
“We have a disabled parking lot at Portsea Place with an ONLY PERMIT HOLDER – D415 Sign. The resident to whom the disabled parking space was specifically allocated has moved out permanently. It would be very positive to change it to a normal disabled parking space so people would use it effectively.”
The Parking Team say: “Whilst notification was received from the previous occupier, confirming that the use of dedicated bay was no longer required, Parking Services then received a request from another Disabled resident asking if they could utilise the space instead. Although the individual was required to submit an appropriate application for further assessment, nothing has been received and steps will now be taken to reallocate the Disabled parking space.”
We saw a dumped mattress in Portsea Place, we reported it and soon we hope to find out who dumped it by the tree in Portsea Place. As fly tipping is a criminal offence, we asked the city inspector and neighbourhood police team to check the CCTV cameras in the area and identify the fly tipper. A big thank you to our Veolia team who responded quickly to collect the mattress.
Portsea Mews
The Church Commissioners have now submitted a revised planning application to refurbish the mews for new homes and offices. When the work starts the Mews will be gated. You can see the revised plans and make comments online at www.westminster.gov.uk/planning. Please use the reference number 22/06901/FULL.
The revised proposals are for “Demolition behind the retained facade and alterations to the existing buildings, replacement floorspace and extension at roof and ground floor level (through the introduction of glazed infills); excavation of a new basement, to create Office accommodation and improved residential accommodation within Portsea Mews; creation of new internal link at ground floor to 8 Porchester Place, new shopfront to 8 Porchester Place, repair of facades and other associated works.”
Kendall Street
We have spoken with the management of the Kendall Street car park about the nuisance created by their Pedicab clients at night outside their entrance. The management say they have not been happy with their Pedicab clients and as their contract finishes at the end of November this year, they will not renew their contract again. We hope that improves life for nearby residents.
We have also reported three streetlights which are not working on Kendall Street in front of Park West.
Southwick Place
We have asked the Street Lighting Team to fix street light number 3 outside 7 Southwick Place.
Hyde Park Gardens/Bayswater Road
We asked the Highways Team to clear a blocked gully at Hyde Park Gardens/Bayswater Road junction where residents say, “every time it rains heavily the cycle lane is impassable and the cars also splash onto the pavement making it difficult for pedestrians to pass.” The Highways Team say, “I will check to see when it was last cleaned but also check whether there is a potential level profile issue here because if it keeps ponding and the gully is clear, it could be something else.”
The Star Street area, between Sussex Gardens and Praed Street
Praed Street
We have again contacted TfL about the noise and vibration issues caused for premises along Praed Street by the underground lines below. Business says,
“The noise and vibrations under the building are worse on a monthly basis. We now have gas leaking into the basement from a broken gas main outside the building. There is a 12-inch cast iron gas main running outside the building which may be damaged by the heavy vibrations caused by the trains running underneath. I have had several potential clients for the building, but no one will put up with the noise and vibrations.”
Praed Street pavements were washed down recently as part of the increased street washing programme we have introduced. Many streets are now being washed every quarter, instead of only getting an annual wash as happened previously.
Star Street/Sale Place
We continue to take action against those responsible for dumping furniture and household goods by the big black bins at the corner of Star Street and Sale Place. Following a recent dumping incident, the Waste Team say, “City Inspectors have attended the site and found evidence in one of the bags. The enforcement process shall begin and hopefully deter any further dumping from this individual.”
St Michael’s Street
We have asked the Waste Team to issue fines for to those responsible for rubbish dumping in St Michael’s Street.
We are also pressing the Planning Department to give planning permission to Notting Hill Genesis for new doubled glazed windows on their properties in St Michael’s Street so that work can start.
Talbot Square
We have asked the City Inspectors to investigate rubbish dumping outside 7 Talbot Square and to take action against the people responsible.
Bouverie Place
We have again asked the Highways Team to fix a water ponding issue in Bouverie Place.
London Street
We reported dumped rubbish in London Street and asked for it to be removed.
We also asked the Planning Enforcement Team to inspect a property in London Street where there are building works.
Edgware Road area
Costa Coffee, 254 Edgware Road
We have asked the police to assist the staff at Costa Coffee who have had recent problems with anti-social behaviour from a member of the public.
Edgware Road
We have reported a damaged traffic direction sign on Edgware Road, opposite Waitrose. The Highways Team say, “The sign on Edgware Road is a TfL asset and I will be reporting it directly to TfL to action.”
Edgware Road, outside Specsavers
We asked the Homeless Team to make contact with the people sleeping outside Specsavers at 173 Edgware Road. The Homeless Team say, “We have increased some of the Street Outreach Service to identify numbers of rough sleepers we are noting in the borough at the current time. We will also link into our neighbourhood teams and the co-ordination of engagement with the people you have highlighted.”
The Chapel Street, Cabbell Street and Transept Street area
Hyde Park Mansions & Oxford and Cambridge Mansions.
We met with Freshwater to discuss the growing problems caused by increasing numbers of Airbnb short-term lettings at Hyde Park Mansions & Oxford and Cambridge Mansions and the problems being caused for residents. We agreed that the Council will work closer with Freshwater to take action against leaseholders who are breaking the terms of their lease and infringing the planning regulations by continued unauthorised short-term lettings.
Hyde Park Mansions
We have asked the police to raid a flat in Hyde Park Mansions where there are reports of drug dealing, human trafficking, illegal short-term letting and benefit fraud.
Chapel Street
We have received a suggestion from a resident that the north side of Chapel Street be considered for tree planting. We have asked the Tree Officers if this might be possible. The Tree Officer says:
“I inspected Chapel Street and the north footway is not viable for planting. There is a row of inspection chamber covers that run adjacent to and parallel to the kerb, precisely the locations where we would wish to plant trees. There are two issues. It is more than likely that the cable and conduit runs are at shallow depth which physically rules out the opportunity to plant. The other factor is that we avoid planting directly over service even if they are at a depth where it would be possible to accommodate the depth of the tree’s rootball.”
“However, there may be the opportunity to plant two trees outside the office block number 37. I’ll arrange in due course for the council’s tree contractor to investigate and all being well we would plant two trees over the course of this winter.”
Paddington Basin/Sheldon Square area
Harrow Road
We have reported a dumped dockless e-bike obstructing the pavement outside Montgomery House on the corner of Harrow Road and Hermitage Street.
Five Kingdom Street
British Land have updated their proposals for Five Kingdom Street which can be seen at www.fivekingdomstreetconsultation.com. There will also be two drop-in events in the lobby of 2 Kingdom Street, W2 6BD on the following dates:
- Tuesday 8th November 2022 – 11:00am – 14:00pm
- Wednesday 16th November – 16:00pm – 19:00pm
Marylebone Boys School, North Wharf Road
Council officers went to Marylebone Boys School recently to encourage eligible parents to apply for Free School Meals. Following the visit, the School said, “I just wanted to say a massive thank you for coming into school yesterday and promoting FSM to parents. I understand that we got at least 10 successful applications already with more to come for those who didn’t have their national insurance number or other details. This will benefit many children and their families during the cost of living crisis, as well as increase our pupil premium grant for teaching and learning.”
Dudley House
We are making enquiries about the parking situation at Dudley House after a resident told us:
“The parking issue in the Dudley House is getting out of control. Today when I came back home, someone left their car in front of the door and was charging the car battery. Not only did I have a problem to enter the building with my bicycle, but the car owner has no permission to park the car or use the electricity!”
Aster House, Paddington Gardens
We have contacted Octavia Housing about the following issues raised by a resident,
“there are two doors in the basement not closing properly and getting worse by the day, one of which I reported in July.”
Octavia Housing say, “I have been chasing this issue. I have asked for another update and told our repairs manager of your concern. I understand that the delay is down to having to get a specialist door company involved.”
Eastbourne Terrace
We have asked the Street Lighting Team to investigate this issue raised by a resident:
“Ever since repairs were started along the Paddington station walls (parallel to Eastbourne Terrace) a few months ago, the lighting has been off all along the entrance of the station, between Bishop’s Bridge Road and the first ventilation shaft.
With nightfall now occurring much earlier, it would be great if lighting along the station could be switched back on.”
The Street Lighting Team say, “The columns have not been adopted by Westminster Council as yet, and they were installed as part of a Crossrail project, and have now passed to Network Rail. Network Rail say they are trying to resolve the issue and are arranging UK Power Networks to attend.”
A few days later the resident told us,“All the lights were back on last evening, which was really fantastic. Thank you again for your help.”
Paddington Cube – lighting update
Following our enquiries about the night-time bright lights at Paddington Cube which is disturbing the sleep of some residents, the developer tells us:
“Paddington Square is currently being tested and commissioned and the office floors are being fitted out. There are some tests that will need to be done after dark, but I have requested our main contractor, Mace, minimises the use of light in the building as far as possible whilst also ensuring that the building is a safe working environment.”
Former Paddington Green Police Station
Berkeley Homes have announced revised proposals for the former Paddington Green Police Station which you can see and make comments at https://pgpsconsultation.com/the-site
Other Issues
Park Lane
TfL has launched a consultation on the Park Lane cycle lane and say, “In June 2020, as an emergency response to the coronavirus, we made changes to Park Lane to make it easier for people to cycle, walk and use the bus. We think the temporary changes have made a positive difference, and we think that the scheme should remain permanently.” What do you think?
https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/park-lane
Making your windows more energy efficient
The Council has produced a guide on how to make your windows more energy efficient
Introducing Rachel Blake
Rachel Blake is the Labour Candidate for Cities of London and Westminster at the next General Election. You can read more about her here
Cost of Living Crisis
Around a quarter of households across Westminster (approximately 31,000 households) are particularly vulnerable to rises in living costs, with some people facing extreme hardship. We can help you get the support you need, from showing you how to access government financial aid to finding local advice services. Whatever hardships you’re facing, we’re here to help.
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support
Walking
A new edition of an illustrated walking map has been released by Footways, plotting hundreds of kilometres of scenic, safe and pedestrian-friendly walking routes in central London. The map is also available as a digital copy with geolocation.
https://footways.london/digital-map
The Ramblers’ Association has organised Wellbeing Walks in central London. You can read more at https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-wellbeing-walks.aspx
Dockless e-bikes
The Council has a Team removing dumped dockless e-bikes which are obstructing the pavement. You can also report dockless e-bikes left in dangerous positions by using Report It and the Council Team will remove the bike if it is obstructing the pavement https://www.westminster.gov.uk/report-it
Service charges
At a time of rising bills, it is important to be as clear as possible about what rights you have because it can be complicated. There is a useful page on the LEASE website covering many of the key issues (what you can ask for, how to challenge bills). Service Charges – The Leasehold Advisory Service (lease-advice.org)
Handyperson service
Westminster residents aged over 60, or in receipt of disability benefit, can request free help from a handyperson. The service covers minor works to a home such as replacing light bulbs and other small DIY jobs. It does not cover gardening, plumbing or decorating, and it is not an emergency service. Please see the following link for details https://www.westminster.gov.uk/handyperson
Electric Car charging points
Charging points have been installed in lamp columns across the area and you can register your interest in having a lamp post charger installed near you by completing the form below. You can also register an interest in having stand-alone charging posts installed in your area.
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/request-vehicle-charging-point
Cycle Hangars
So the Council can install new secure cycle storage where it is most needed and to give all residents a fair opportunity for getting a hangar in their area, residents interested in renting a space should Register an Interest via our website. The Council uses this demand data to inform our new location proposals.
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/walking-and-cycling/find-cycle-parking
Local Police
The Hyde Park Ward Safer Neighbourhood Police Team of Sgt Martin Noon, PCs Adam Oddy and Harminder Purewal have been joined by PC Lewis Best and PCSO Lina Pandi.
You can contact them at AWMailbox.SNTCWHydePark@met.police.uk
You can keep an eye on the latest local crime information through the Met Police website:
https://www.met.police.uk/a/your-area/met/westminster/hyde-park/
Refuse collection and Recycling collection times
Recycling bags can be ordered from https://webforms.westminster.gov.uk/order-recycling-bags/. Bags will be delivered within approximately 10 days of order.
You can check when refuse and recycling is collected from your street here http://transact.westminster.gov.uk/env/streetsearch.aspx
Bulky Waste collections
You can book a bulky waste collection service with the Council for £32 for up to 6 items. We aim to complete your collection within 3 working days. If you do not have 6 items for collection you can ask your neighbours if they any and then share the cost.
If you receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support, the service is free. However, this is limited to one collection, of up to 6 items, every 90 days. You can read more here
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/collections/how-dispose-bulky-waste
If you are a landlord or managing agent and you are disposing of unwanted furniture or building material, please do not dump it in the street! If you do, you will be fined.
Please contact the Council’s bulky waste collection service, and we will take it away quickly and efficiently.
https://cleanstreets.westminster.gov.uk/services/bulky-waste-collections/
Recycling small electrical appliances
Any household electrical and electronic item that operates on a battery or has a plug and is smaller than 60cm in length and under 30cm in width and height, can be put in an on-street small electrical appliances recycling bin. For details of locations see https://www.westminster.gov.uk/recycling-and-rubbish/reusing-and-other-recycling-services/how-recycle-electrical-appliances/small-electrical-appliances
Light bulb recycling
Any retailer selling light bulbs is required to take them back. Please check https://www.recyclenow.com/recycling-locator under ‘energy saving light bulbs’.
Report It
Please tell the Council about dumped rubbish, broken street lights, dumped bikes, graffiti and more by using Report It https://www.westminster.gov.uk/report-it
Street Link
If you see anyone sleeping rough, please contact Street Link who are able offer help and assistance. You can contact Street Link 24 hours a day at www.streetlink.org.uk.
‘Westminster Extra’
You can read the ‘Westminster Extra’ online
Coronavirus (Covid-19) UPDATE
Interactive Map
You can see the latest data for your area here
https://coronavirus.data.gov.uk/details/interactive-map
What you say
“I applaud you for these regular updates. Thank you for your continued efforts on our behalf.”
“Many thanks for your interesting email newsletter.”
“Thank you for including us on the Hyde Park Ward Action Report. We find it both useful and informative. Please continue to send it to us.”
“I am most obliged by your assistance in my hour of need!”
“Thanks for your regular updates again and all the action you take in service of your constituents.”
“Thank you very much for your prompt action and communication.”
“It’s wonderful to see the effort your team are putting in. We are very appreciative.”
“As ever, I find your newsletters very informative and helpful. Thanks for all your work on our behalf.”
Please let us know if we can be of help or assistance on any local issues.
Please feel free to pass this report to your neighbours. If you know of anyone else who might like to receive this report, please send them this sign-up link https://bit.ly/labour-news
Please keep safe, stay well and look after yourself and your neighbours.
Regards
Judith Southern, Md Shamsed Chowdhury and Paul Dimoldenberg
Your Hyde Park Ward Labour Councillors – Here to Help, All Year Round – We Get Things Done!
You can contact us at hplabour@gmail.com
You can read our latest news on https://www.westminsterlabour.org.uk
You can read our manifesto here, setting out what Labour wants to achieve over the next four years: www.westminsterlabour.org.uk/manifesto-labours-plan-for-a-fairer-westminster/
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