ENFIELD DISPATCH No. 3 THE BOROUGH’S FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER DEC 2018

NEWS Assurances sought as Edmonton Green Shopping Centre sold for £72m P . 3

FEATURE How North Hospice is helping people cope with life- limiting illnesses P . 5

INTERVIEW President of Enfield Over 50s Forum talks about group's work helping the elderly P . 7

COMMENT Labour Party members speak out about their vote of no confidence against Enfield North MP Find out how wildlife garden has been brought back to life by volunteers – turn to Page 4 P . 9

A M E E Become a Council set for showdown Mmember of Enfield M

Dispatch and get the O paper delivered to B

your door

E

C each month

– find out more R with mayor over new homes E on Page 16

Sadiq Khan warns Enfield Council against building on Green Belt B

BY JAMES CRACKNELL has been protected against devel- The railway station at is deputy leader Edward Smith told opment since 1947. But the next used as an example of an area that last month's full council meeting: nfield Council could day, after being quizzed during “has the greatest potential to act “Crews Hill has been mentioned enfielddispatch.co.uk be heading for a show- Mayor's Question Time about as a hub for sustainable growth”. as a possible location for build- down with the Mayor of whether he would block attempts However, local plans drawn up by ing on the Green Belt. Building London over the fate to build on Enfield's Green Belt, councils must comply with policies on gardens will be made easier @EnfieldDispatch Eof the borough's Green Belt. Sadiq Khan said: “If it is the case in the , which is decided than in the past and building The Labour-run council is con- that their Local Plan is in breach by the Authority high-rise blocks in town centres /EnfieldDispatch sidering building on Green Belt of our policies I will object. It's (GLA) and currently contains a com- will also be easier. This consulta- land as it struggles to meet a important to protect the Green Belt." mitment to protect the Green Belt. tion will be a fishing expedition new target of building 1,876 A draft document outlining the Enfield residents will soon be able to get support for this basic thesis. [email protected] homes in Enfield per year – with objectives of Enfield's new Local to have their say on the document, “But we think the main reason only 550 being built at present. Plan, which will guide planning with an initial public consultation for the lack of housing built in Last month councillors rejected policy in the borough over the next set to be launched this month. Enfield over the last ten years is a call by opposition Conservatives 15 years, states there are “strong Presenting an opposition motion down to the failures of the council.” to ban any new homes from being sustainability arguments in favour calling for the Green Belt to be built on the Green Belt, which of developing some Green Belt land”. protected, Conservative Group CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 NEWS No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 said: “Previous housing targets 37% of its total land falling under were challenging, but were mod- the designation. According to new Call for better Meridian Water in Edmonton erate in comparison to these new figures released by charity Shelter, was frequently brought up in last targets. We are now expected to Enfield also has the seventh-high- hospital bus month's debate, with two deals with deliver 1,900 homes per year. A est rate of homelessness in the UK. developers having fallen through step change is obviously needed. Cllr Caliskan said: “We value our links rejected ED. in the last year and no new homes “We will be seeking the views of green spaces just as we value those having yet been people in Edmon- built there, despite “Large regeneration schemes ton, where one-in- More surgeries at o the council pledg- four children live Chase Farm prompt N .3 ing to build 10,000. have moved at a snail's pace” in poverty, largely Cllr Smith said: down to the fact transport fears DECEMBER 2018 “Large regeneration schemes have all residents and stakeholders, in they cannot afford their housing costs.” moved at a snail's pace. When will the a 12-week consultation, before we Concerning a potential clash with BY JAMES CRACKNELL Enfield Dispatch is the council get a grip on Meridian Water?” come to a decision. We are asking the GLA over building on the Green borough's free community Council leader Nesil Caliskan people to suggest sites for new homes Belt, the council's deputy leader, ransport for London (TfL) has newspaper. We publish monthly admitted that building the number and come up with ideas.” Daniel Anderson, said: “This is not rejected calls to provide better and distribute 10,000 free copies of new homes required by City Enfield has the fourth largest area a done deal. We are in a process access to Chase Farm Hospital. of each issue to cafés, pubs, T The newly-expanded hospital in community centres, libraries, Hall had proven difficult. She of Green Belt land in London, with of consultation.” GP surgeries, schools, hair The Ridgeway is now expected to salons, and outside railway host 10,000 operations per year, as stations. North Enfield Foodbank has seen the primary location for planned a 9.2% rise in use over the past year surgery across the Royal Free London Publisher Credit Trussell Trust David Floyd NHS Foundation Trust, but there is currently no direct bus link between Editor the hospital and its nearest tube James Cracknell station, Oakwood. Designer Enfield Council leader Nesil Caliskan Jonathan Duncan wrote to TfL in October to ask them to look at options “to ensure patients Project Manager and visitors travelling to the hospi- Anna Merryfield tal can do so without any difficulty”. Contributors But TfL argues that redirecting one of Stephen Cox, Ingrid Cranfield, the local bus services to Chase Farm Paola Noto, Carole Stanley, Gary would increase journey times, for Boudier, Warren McWilliams, passengers not visiting the hospital, Katherine Chibah, Mira Glavadarnov, Mark French, by half-an-hour. Claire Fisher, Dana Burstow, Geoff Hobbs, TfL’s director of public Jo Johnson, Susan Jameson, transport service planning, said: “We Anthony Fisher, Hannah Dyson have carried out a review of public transport to the hospital and believe Members Derek Grant, Michael Dickinson, it has the right service for the level Michael Cole, Brendan O'Brien, of demand. A large number of high- Young Notes, Ed Balleny frequency routes operate from Enfield town centre. Warning as foodbank use rises “Re-routing the 377, 121 or 307 CONTACT would significantly increase journey Call 020 8521 7956 BY STEPHEN COX attributes much of this to benefit take more than it expects to distribute. times for all customers, and would Email EnfieldDispatch@ changes. It claims foodbank use rises About one-tenth of clients are reduce the high-frequency links for socialspider.com orth Enfield Foodbank is faster in places where Universal Credit referred to Enfield North Foodbank residents into Enfield town centre. We Post Salisbury House, Bury preparing for Christmas has been fully rolled out. because of benefit delays. Nation- are happy to work with the borough Street West, Enfield N9 9LA having helped nearly seven But Kerry is cautious about the ally, the Trussell Trust agrees that to ensure changing buses in the town Nthousand people over the last year figures. She said: “We don’t know foodbanks are not a permanent centre is as easy as possible.” ADVERTISING – a 9.2% increase in demand. whether we are growing because more solution, and has launched a three- Currently three bus services stop at Contact Ben Cawthra: Set up in 2012 by national charity people need us, or because more people year research programme. Emma Chase Farm; the 313 between Ching- Call 020 3892 0061 the Trussell Trust, North Enfield have heard of us. It is probably both.” Revie, the charity's chief execu- ford and Potters Bar, the W8 to Lee Email ben.cawthra@ Foodbank in Lumina Way is giving North Enfield Foodbank actually tive, said: “Foodbanks are provid- Valley Leisure Complex, and the W9 hackneycitizen.co.uk out more food parcels than ever offers a much wider range of services ing absolutely vital support, but no to Southgate. before, with 6,868 people receiving than it does food. Enfield Communi- charity can replace the dignity of Natalie Forest, Chase Farm's chief aid in the year up to October 2018. ty Money Advice and Enfield Citizens having long-term financial security. executive, wrote to TfL with her con- Speaking to the Dispatch, foodbank Advice Bureau both hold regular ses- “We need to end poverty – we cerns about poor bus links in July, manager Kerry Coe said: “We provide sions, there is a free language school, need to ensure that everyone while Enfield Over 50s Forum is now emergency food supplies for those and cooking lessons are provided. has enough money coming in to running a campaign to improve the in crisis. Each person can get three Kerry said: “We offer baby food, baby cover the cost of the essentials.” hospital's access to public transport. We are grateful to Love Your Doorstep days food, up to six times a year. milk, nappies, toiletries and sanitary A Department for Work and Monty Meth, president of Enfield for their ongoing support “They can be referred by three protection. We can buy families school Pensions spokesperson said: “The Over 50s Forum, told the Dispatch: hundred local partners – schools, uniforms. We try to signpost people reasons why people use foodbanks “The Royal Free has done a terrific Enfield Dispatch is a member of IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor children’s centres, housing associ- to other places they can get help.” are complex. We continue to spend job transforming the hospital but now of The Press. For more information ations, GPs and voluntary bodies.” Christmas often leads to a surge in around £90billion a year supporting they are doing all the operations there on the Dispatch’s complaints policy and how to make a complaint visit: Nationwide, the Trussell Trust says donations. Fresh fruit and vegetables people who need it, including those and it is taking people forever to get enfielddispatch.co.uk/complaints use of its foodbanks is up 13% and are welcome, but the foodbank cannot out of work or on a low income.” to the hospital from train stations.” 3 NEWS No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH

Shopping mall site sold for £72m Money for kids n extra £1million will be Edmonton Green residents seek reassurances as "improvements" promised spent on children's social A care, Enfield Council has BY JAMES CRACKNELL called Metropolitan Thames Valley) agreed. The money will be used and London and Quadrant (L&Q). to hire 18 new staff to help ease he sale of a large housing Matt Mason, director of Cross- growing pressure on the service. estate will “not affect the tree, said: “We are excited to play Speaking at a meeting last month, the rights of residents”, accord- our part in the improvement of cabinet member for children's services, Ting to one of its housing associations. this community-focused retail Achilleas Georgiou, said the work- Edmonton Green Shopping Centre centre and to help create a thriving load of caseworkers was significantly was sold to a property investment town centre and neighbourhood. higher compared to other boroughs. “We need to make sure if there is a firm last month for £72million, with “We are committed to the long-term vulnerable child that we act,” Cllr Geor- the site's three tower blocks also future of Edmonton Green and look giou told the meeting. “We can't allow made part of the deal. More than one forward to working with the council our caseworkers to be overburdened. thousand people live on the estate. and local community to support the “The priority of this local authority is Crosstree Real Estate Partners bought growth and prosperity of this strate- funding in children's services and we the town-centre site from previous gically important site within Enfield.” have moved swiftly to take action.” owners St Modwen, which had itself Edmonton MP Kate Osamor said the An Ofsted inspection of the council's bought it from Enfield Council in sale has “potential to be positive” but children’s social care service is expect- the 1990s. Crosstree already owns also warned: “Understandably, shop- ed within six months. retail property in Soho, Mayfair, keepers and local residents have some and at the O2 Arena in Greenwich, trepidation about what the change but now wants to exploit “growth of ownership will mean. Tenants are New tube trains opportunities in outer London”. hoping to learn more soon about the A spokesperson for housing new owners and their plans for the ew trains will be introduced association Metropolitan Thames shopping centre. Edmonton Green Shopping Centre was built in the late on the Piccadilly line between 1960s and early 1970s – then extended in the 2000s Valley said: “The private sale will “Of greatest anxiety, tenants N 2024 and 2026, Transport for not affect our legal rights as the are concerned about the content tural growth characteristics”. hold of the site and would make London (TfL) has announced. The fleet of 94 air conditioned, leaseholder at three of the site’s of future leases, what kind of Crosstree has judged the poten- the decision about any redevelop- walk-through trains, will im- residential blocks – or the rights of relationship will be on offer from tial of Edmonton Green differently. ment plan, should it be proposed. prove accessibility and increase our residents who live in them.” Crosstree and whether rents will Speaking to the Dispatch about the Asked what changes Crosstree might capacity on the line, which stops at Edmonton Green Shopping Centre rise. My hope is that tangible steps sale, a company spokesperson said: make, the spokesperson added: “We four stations in Enfield borough. was built in the late 1960s and early are taken to help businesses in “Crosstree believes there are growth are looking to make improvements Frequency will also be raised from 24 1970s and is regarded as an example of the shopping centre flourish.” opportunities in outer London.” in the short-term, as well as iden- to 27 trains-per-hour. The Piccadil- the period's brutalist architecture. In In the late 2000s St Modwen The Edmonton Green site covers tify medium-term opportunities ly line's existing trains were built in 1999 the leasehold for the site was sold regenerated the site, building new ten hectares and includes 754 to enhance customer experience.” the 1970s and are becoming increas- by the council to St Modwen, while blocks of flats and a large super- homes, 123 shops, a daily market, An L&Q spokesperson said: “Our res- ingly unreliable. the homes in the tower blocks were market, while a new bus station library, community centre, and idents will not be affected by the sale Nigel Holness, managing director transferred to a partnership between was also built. The company more than 1,000 car parking spaces. of Edmonton Green Shopping Centre.” of London Underground, said: “The introduction of new trains on the Metropolitan Housing Trust (now now says it lacks “strong struc- Enfield Council retains the free- The council declined to comment. Piccadilly line will significantly improve the journeys of millions of our custom- ers, providing more frequent and more Vulnerable people 'at risk' from benefit changes reliable trains for decades to come.” BY STEPHEN COX essential to understand the system for those with many mental health half a day. We always try to get clients Bin consultation when you frame your claim. Those conditions – they can’t always stick representation, often through the Free eople with a mental health with mental health or learning issues to an agreed weekly plan of activity”. Representation Unit.” diagnosis or learning disability find it particularly difficult.” Jill Harrison, of Enfield Citi- The government recently agreed to nfield Council is seeking people's views on its plans to change bin are particularly likely to lose He added that a difficulty was zens Advice Bureau, agrees the PIP give additional PIP payments to up collections. Pout on benefits they are entitled to, representation at appeal. “I have application process is lengthy and to 220,000 claimants with a mental E Seven different options for modifying advocates for vulnerable people in sometimes managed cases to be done off-putting. She said: “People have to health diagnosis. The government the way household waste is collected Enfield have warned. on the papers without the claimant claim every year, they are refused, had argued that claimants who suf- have been drawn up by the council, Danny Newland, business manager present. We’re just not funded to they have to appeal, they win on fered psychological distress when including four which would see black at Enfield Carers Centre, said Personal travelling were not entitled to the wheelie bins picked up once a fort- Independence Payment (PIP) awards “Those with mental health or mobility part of the PIP award, but night. Potential savings for taxpayers were often incorrect, with govern- this decision was overturned in court. range from £97,000 to £2.8million. The ment figures showing 70 percent of learning issues find it difficult” A spokesperson for the Department council is also keen to boost recycling appeals by claimants were successful. for Work and Pensions said: “We are rates, which currently stand at 37% – Asked by the Dispatch how changes represent people at hearings, appeal, then it's time to apply again.” committed to ensuring that people below the 44% national average. A council spokesperson said: “The made last year to PIP eligibility was although we do what we can.” Jill agrees with Danny that repre- with a health condition or disabili- primary driver will be the amount of impacting local people, Danny said A medical diagnosis or social work sentation at appeal is a key weak- ty get the support they’re entitled to. financial savings projected. All options that although the system was dif- report doesn't explain how people's ness. “Enfield CAB has two-and-a-half A relatively small proportion of all will be considered before a decision ficult for all claimants, those with health conditions limit everyday benefit advisers. We help with initial decisions are overturned at appeal. is reached.” mental health issues were most easily life, which is what the system re- claims, and with appeals, even if we “In most successful appeals, The consultation ends on Sunday discouraged from appealing. quires. Danny pointed out that correct did not handle the original application. decisions are overturned because 6th January 2019. To take part visit: “I’ve seen a lot of questionable PIP awards can be crucial because “But to represent someone in person people have submitted more oral enfield.gov.uk/waste benefit decisions,” he said. “It’s “Jobseekers Allowance is very difficult takes an adviser out of the office for or written evidence.” 4 FEATURES No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH Wildest dreams Carole Stanley on how an overgrown corner has developed into a tranquil space for the community

Volunteers have helped to transform Bush Hill Park wildlife garden over the last year

t all started when I took part in a litter solutions, believing that locking the park pick about two years ago. I hadn’t set at night, introducing security lighting, and foot in Bush Hill Park before then, and I installing CCTV, were the way forward. But Icertainly knew nothing about its dishevelled these measures come with a heavy cost. wildlife garden. Instead, we embarked on a partnership What began as a couple of hours of volun- approach. We were all volunteers; the friends teering subsequently turned into a huge part group, adults with learning difficulties from the of my life – combining my love of nature, charity One-to-One, and children from George education, and community engagement. Spicer School. After realising that most damage Wildlife has returned to the pond after work to The Bush Hill Park wildlife garden is a triangle was occurring in the evenings, we decided reduce littering and improve water quality of land which lies between the tennis courts to install a lockable gate. The council was Advertisement and the back gardens of houses in Southbury persuaded and agreed to work with the friends Road. Although it had been maintained by group, using funding from The Enfield Society, the Friends of Bush Hill Park for many years, to make it happen. The gate was installed a the number of volunteers was dwindling, and year ago and occurrences of vandalism and they had become somewhat littering have fallen con- disillusioned with the task. siderably since. The raised pond was a con- “The garden is Now that we have more stant target for vandals, now teeming volunteers we've been plants and amphibians were able to hold regular being stolen, rocks were with wildlife” meetings – and summer thrown in, and the liner picnics! Every week, was damaged. Another issue was funding; gardening club members work hard to keep the local authority was cash-strapped and so the garden looking good. We have built three any improvements had to be funded by the small sunken ponds, a wildflower meadow, friends group raising money or applying for outdoor classroom, and new flowerbeds charitable grants. As a result, the garden was sponsored by Enfield in Bloom. We have also becoming overgrown and unwelcoming. secured funding from the council for a bench Brambles, nettles and couch grass had pretty and living willow dome, which we hope to much taken over and litter was a constant install this month. problem. It looked unloved and was largely The garden is now teeming with wildlife, ignored by the majority of park users. including bats, bees, birds, amphibians, I do like a challenge, so I agreed to join the dragonflies, butterflies and moths. We have gardening group and the committee. We also been chosen for next year's Co-op Local held public meetings and it became clear that Community Fund and will use this money to anti-social behaviour was the main issue for continue to promote the garden to everyone local residents. They had strong views about in the community. 5 FEATURES No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH Putting down roots Thousands of trees set to be planted by residents in Edmonton

BY INGRID CRANFIELD planting scheme for Montagu Rec. On Sunday 2nd December we are hosting rees have innumerable benefits an event to plant 3,000 trees there. for us and for the environment. It will kick-off at 10am, with planting T They absorb carbon dioxide and mulching going on until around and give off oxygen. They reduce 3pm. Most of the planting will happen the amount of rain run-off, limiting along the border of Montagu Road erosion and pollution in our wa- as a 'woodland fringe' to help block terways and helping to alleviate the air pollution. There are also plans to effects of flooding. They are also an plant small copses for fruit and nut important source of food, protection trees on the mound. and shelter for wildlife. The event is being organised by Trees At Montagu Recreation Ground in for Cities and is backed by Mayor Edmonton – affectionately known of London Sadiq Khan, who wants by locals as Montagu Rec – the to turn London into the UK's first Environment Agency has recent- 'National Park City'. The mayor's ly completed a flood alleviation initiative chimes perfectly with one scheme. To people with memo- of the five principal goals of Boun- Peri Emirali began volunteering at Hospice ries of the floods of 2000, when tagu, which is to improve the local after seeing how the charity helped her mother 192 homes were underwater in the environment, so it’s an opportunity Montagu Road area, this has come too good to miss. as a blessing – lowering the flood St Peter’s Church on Bounces Road Care in the community risk to 1,393 properties. Once this is also involved in the tree-plant- scheme was finished in 2016, the ing event. Inside the church is Environment Agency also did some a plaque listing the names of the How North London Hospice is helping people landscaping work, much improv- 143 men in the parish who were cope with life-limiting illnesses ing the look of the area. killed in the First World War. Now we want to do more. Bountagu As part of the centenary commem- BY PAOLA NOTO She enjoyed the sing-alongs, art, family. She died comfortably sur- is a local community organisation in orations of the end of the war, 143 and the great company. One rounded by the people she loved.” Lower Edmonton that is funded with trees will be planted on a special- hen you enter the of my fondest memories was North London Hospice also offers £1.1million over ten years from the ly designated area of Montagu Rec. Health and Well- of her singing with the violin- emotional and practical support Big Lottery Fund in order to deliver Residents who live in the houses being Centre in ist in the centre’s living room. to patients’ families, friends, and positive change to the area. Boun- once occupied by these heroes are BarrowellW Green, one of the “On other days she was able to carers. It costs £10million a year tagu – named after Bounces Road invited to come and plant a tree in first smiles that greets you is have acupuncture and reflexol- to run our services, which are and Montagu Road – is one of 150 their memory. that of volunteer Peri Emirali. ogy to help relieve her pain. Mum free to patients and their families. 'Big Local' areas in the country that After the planting event, there will Peri’s involvement with North found the centre calming and the “People mustn’t be frightened have received this level of funding. be a celebration at St Peter’s Church. London Hospice began three years staff very loving.” of the word 'hospice',” says Peri. Our latest project is a major tree- Everyone is welcome to join us! ago when the charity cared for her North London Hospice is a reg- “It’s just a word that we’re con- mother Vasfiye, who had been istered charity, caring for local ditioned to feel frightened of. diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. people in the boroughs of Barnet, “A year after mum’s death Asked how she became involved Enfield and Haringey. We help I applied to be a front-of-house with the hospice and what moti- people with specialist needs as a volunteer at the Health and Wellbe- vates her to give up ing Centre and to offer her spare time, Peri my support with their said: “After mum was “Mum found the social programme. The diagnosed with pan- centre calming and the people who come here creatic cancer we were are so positive and referred to the North staff very loving” have such energy. It London Hospice's pal- really rubs off on you. liative care team. result of a potentially life-limiting “I love meeting the patients and “I didn’t know much about the illness and we support patients their families. We always have a hospice then. One of the communi- in making the most of their life laugh and they tell me their stories. ty nurses came to visit mum at her despite their illness – last year we We sit and play dominoes, make home in Edmonton and we talked cared for almost 2,500 patients. cards and jewellery. The patients about how she could support us in Peri continued: “Mum wanted to are all very special and that’s why managing her pain and what her die at home and I knew that North we’re here, to make the unbear- wishes were. She was so patient, London Hospice would support her able bearable.” kind and caring. when the time came. The hospice “Mum was invited to attend the enabled us as a family to have this Health and Wellbeing Centre and choice. Mum wanted as much it was here that she met so many normality around her as possible. Find out more and help support North London Hospice: People of all ages can volunteer to help plant new trees lovely people. She used to look “When it came to the end of her at Montagu Rec in Edmonton Credit Trees for Cities forward to coming and socialising. life she was surrounded by her Visit northlondonhospice.org 6 HISTORY No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH Set in stone Local historian Gary Boudier on how a Victorian landmark in Enfield has endured

Enfield Town fountain in 1895 Again, in 1969, the idea of remov- Credit Enfield Local Studies ing the fountain arose, with many Libraries & Archives residents venting their displea- sure at the council. People were came from. It's known that the especially angry with Councillor local Baptist Tabernacle church was Graham Eustance, who would later selling photographs of the fountain lead the council, after he wrote for sixpence and ninepence each, pos- that the public would be chan- sibly to help raise the missing money. nelled across the intended roadway Town and Country Planning (Development Management In 1895 the Enfield Gas Company through guardrails. This immedi- installed four gas lamps for the foun- ately caused a flood of letters to the Procedure) () Order 2015 NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE tain, which were hailed as a great Gazette, with residents saying they 13 OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION improvement and would be “herded (Notice 2: This notice is for publication in local newspaper if Certificate C or D is completed) featured in many “Most saw like cattle”across photographs of the road. Proposed development at: the time. it as our Enfield Council Name or flat number However, some- wanted a one-way Property number or name 113 time over the version of the system intro- ensuing years, the duced in the town Street Lane gas lamps were fountain at and they deemed Locality removed and a Piccadilly the fountain an Town Greater London trio of electric outdated piece of lamps, protrud- 'Victoriana'. The County Enfield Circus” ing from above matter was put to Postal town the cherubs, were installed instead. the Enfield Preservation Society,

Postcode ade EN3from 6TQ Aberdeen during a gale in 1836. A public fountain was placed in the hands of It was reported in 1960 by the Enfield asking them to suggest an alter- granite, the fountain in fund for the fountain started in the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain Gazette that the local council wanted nate site. Thankfully, the situa- Take notice that applicationEnfield Townis being has been made the by: summer of 1884 but because and Cattle Trough Association, which to pull down the fountain, but this tion was resolved, and the two Ma permanent feature since 1885. of a shortage of money was had made its own contribution. appears to have stirred up many a cherubs atop the fountain are Organisation name Eyal Moran Architects Ltd It stands where a great elm tree delayed until March 1885, when When it finally opened in 1885, the feeling against the idea – most res- still clinging to each other while Applicant name dominatedTitle theMr. area for Forenamegener- it Eyalwas opened without ceremony. fund was still £20 in arrears, and it is idents viewed it as our own version all around them carry on their

ations,Surname before itMoran was blown down During 1884 the work to build the unclear as to where the final money of the fountain at Piccadilly Circus. daily deeds.

For planning permission to: Description of proposed Towndevelopment and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Demolition of existing dwelling and rear garage, and erection of a two storey plus roof space, detached building to provide 7no self-contained(England) flats, Order rear detached 2015 NOTICE dwelling, associatedUNDER withARTICLE rear cars 13 parking OF APPLICATION with access from the rear, cycleFOR store, PLANNINGrefuse and recycling PERMISSION and landscaping. Proposed development at: Take notice that application is being made by: Local Planning Authority to whom the application is being 113submitted: Bullsmoor Lane,Enfield Greater Council London, Enfield EN3 6TQ Organisation name: Cocosa LTD Applicant name: Mr. Eyal Moran C/O Local Planning Authority address: Silver St, London EN1 3XA For planning permission to: Demolition of existing dwelling and rear garage, and erection of a two storey plus roof space, detached building to provide 7no self-contained flats, rear detached dwelling, associated with rear Any owner of the land orcars tenant parking who with wishes access to frommake the representations rear, cycle store, about refuse this and application, recycling and should landscaping. write to the council within 21 days of the date of this notice. Signatory: Local Planning Authority to whom the application is being submitted: Enfield Council Local Planning Authority address: Silver St, London EN1 3XA Signatory Title Mr Forename Eyal Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application, shouldSurname write toMoran the council within 21 days of the date of this notice. Signature Signatory Mr Eyal Moran Date: 03/12/2018

Date (dd-mm-yyyy) Statement of owners'21/09/2018 rights: The grant of planning permission does not affect owners' rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement Statement of owners' rights:or lease. The grant of planning permission does not affect owners' rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or lease. Statement of agricultural tenants' rights: The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural Statement of agriculturaldevelopment tenants' rights: may affect The grant agricultural of planning tenants' permission security forof tenure. non-agricultural development may affectThis agricultural notice is fortenants' publication security in a oflocal tenure. newspaper. 'Owner' means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven'Owner' years. means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of 'Tenant' means a tenantwhich of an isagricultural not less than holding seven years.any part of which is comprised in the land. This notice is for publication'Tenant' in ameans local anewspaper. tenant of an agricultural holding any part of whichPrint is Formcomprised in the land. No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH INTERVIEW 7

Monty Meth has helped Enfield Over 50s Forum grow to become one of the largest groups of its kind in London

A lifetime of achievement Monty Meth, president of Enfield Over 50s Forum, speaks to James Cracknell about the group's work helping local elderly people

hen I meet Monty Meth, ings, but all they were discussing by Monty. Campaign wins include been tackling loneliness among older back when I first joined, when local the tireless 92-year-old was the state pension. It is limited persuading the former Enfield people, an issue for which the govern- newspapers were still thriving. I used W president of Enfield Over what a local group can do about Primary Care Trust to introduce ment now has a dedicated minister. the media to establish the creden- 50s Forum, he is in a triumphant mood. something like that and I didn't digital hearing aids and persuad- “We were the first organisation tials of the forum. Now we have a big The news had just come in that one think the group had much of a ing to extend in the country to offer support to influence locally and good contacts of the forum's long-running cam- future. Then, after two meetings, the 347 bus to Barnet Hospital. the Campaign to End Loneliness,” among MPs, the council, and NHS.” paigns had taken a big step forward. they made me the chairman.” What has been the secret to the says Monty. “Their director Laura Monty grew up in Bethnal Green Enfield Clinical Commissioning The forum is now thriving and forum's success? “What we have Ferguson came to us and said how in the 1920s and 30s, serving with Group (CCG), the body responsible claims to be the largest voluntary been doing for the last 20 years is great it was to have a local forum the Royal Navy during the Second for delivering NHS primary care sector organisation in Enfield – raising the quality of life for older like ours. Not all people who live on World War and later moving to services in the borough, had agreed and one of the largest of its kind in people, in whatever way we can. their own are lonely, but some are, Enfield in the 1960s as he estab- to support the forum's annual winter London. More than 3,500 people have We host a series of events during and we have tried to offer them the lished his career in journalism. fair event early next year, helping to sought help hand of friend- Today the nonagenarian lives in get the message out about keeping from its drop-in ship by offer- Oakwood with Betty, his wife of 62 warm and well in the cold weather. advice sessions “I have always wanted to be ing them free years. They have four grandchil- “It is great that they want to work since 2011, held membership dren and two great-grandchildren. with us,” Monty says. “There is no every Monday involved in community work of the forum. Monty was presented with a doubt that the number of elderly morning at “We are also lifetime achievement award at this people dying during winter is far Dugdale Centre. and to put something back” organising year's Enfield Together Awards, worse than the rest of the year. There are regular an event on hosted by Enfield Voluntary Action. We want to help whatever way we social events hosted at Millfield the year on things like helping to Christmas Day itself, at the Quaker “I was very appreciative of that,” he can on fuel poverty, and on getting House in Edmonton, an over-50s film prevent people from falling – and Meeting House in , to says. “I have always wanted to be homes insulated and draught proof.” club at Enfield Cineworld, and forum Enfield does now have fewer people offer people company if they need it.” involved in community work and Twenty years ago, when Monty meetings with guest speakers suffering from falls and going to hos- Monty is a former journalist, having to put something back.” first joined Enfield Over 50s including police officers, pro- pital than anywhere else in London. once been industrial editor at the Forum, the group had 70 members. fessors, council officials and “We have a brilliant develop- Daily Mail, and has used his journal- Find out more about Enfield It now has more than 6,000. beekeepers, among others. ment manager, Jan Oliver, who is istic skills to help promote Enfield Over 50s Forum: “When I retired in 1999 I joined The forum also produces a 16-page full of passion and ideas and cre- Over 50s Forum. For many years he Call 020 8807 2076 the forum – it was then called newsletter six times a year, packed ativity; she is the inspiration for had a regular column in the now Email info@ the Enfield Older People's Forum full of useful information and articles a lot of the work that we do.” defunct Enfield Gazette and Advertiser. enfieldover50sforum.org.uk – and I went to a couple of meet- – including a regular column written Another long-running campaign has “It was the local media that helped us Visit enfieldover50sforum.org.uk 8 COMMENT No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH

Help save our theatre Bowes ties Warren McWilliams, from amateur drama group Saint In our regular councillor's Monica's Players, on why the Intimate Theatre must be saved column, Katherine Chibah talks about cuts and campaigns

The Intimate Theatre in hosted was proud to be elected as a Labour councillor in the first-ever play broadcast live on television Bowes ward in May this year. I wanted to stand Ibecause I truly believe in the power of politics to transform lives. But there is no way to sugar the pill; central govern- ment cuts are hurting Enfield badly. In Bowes, the cuts translate into a myriad of issues. People come to surgery each week with well-founded anxiety about crime and the absence of police, or describe how soaring rents and harsh benefits cuts are pushing them to the brink – even when they work long hours. Meanwhile, Enfield Council has itself lost half its central government grant since 2010. It gets harder by the day for councillors to help the people we repre- sent. In this climate it is crucial that we listen to communities and work to stretch every pound left available. But we must be clear; austerity has been inflicted upon us and our communi- ties because of political choices made by central government. That is why I and many of my Labour colleagues support ‘Breaking Point – Labour Councillors Fighting Austerity'. As part of this campaign, hould the Intimate Theatre be fund this they will sell the current There is already a large and small more than 5,000 Labour councillors have signed a demolished, Enfield stands to parish centre in Cannon Hill. hall on the site. The proposed petition which was delivered to Downing Street, Slose part of its artistic heritage. We fully support the good work of replacement will house one large appealing for an end to the cuts in October’s budget. The venue in Palmers Green was built the parish, but feel that by develop- hall that could be divided into two Sadly it fell on deaf ears; the planned £1.3billion next to St Monica’s Church Hall in ing the existing building the needs small halls. Access to the current government cut to councils will go ahead in 2019/20. 1931, but in 1935 was handed over of both parish and community could small hall needs to be improved I and my colleagues will continue to fight this assault to Sir John Clemence as the home be met sooner – at a reduced cost. but this could be done without on our communities, not only through protests but for his repertory theatre company. We are under no illusions as to the demolishing an entire building. This also through creativity. Whether you want to call it This set the Intimate on its path to current state of the venue; through approach is akin to buying a new ‘community wealth building’ or ‘municipal social- become part of not just local, but mismanagement and neglect it has television because the batteries in ism’, Labour councils are looking at radical ways to national cultural history. been allowed to deteriorate. Despite your remote have died. fight back against austerity. As a theatre it has welcomed many that, it still runs at a profit. We devised alternative options and In Enfield, schemes such as the ‘Energetik’ local famous actors, but the were told we would be authority energy supplier are looking beyond Intimate itself has also “We sent our proposals to granted a meeting with short-term profits and putting communities first. played an important the committee, but it Similarly, the ‘Housing Gateway’ scheme is keeping role. It was the first the diocese, but they have never materialised. We public money in public hands and providing housing theatre to reopen during sent our proposals to for the most vulnerable. the Second World War, been ignored” the diocese, but they I also believe we can learn from radical innovations and hosted the first-ever play to be With small financial investment have been ignored. Our plans, avail- such as the ‘Preston Model’ which aims to truly screened live on television. The In- and volunteer help, the Intimate able on the Saint Moncia's Players transform local economies for the benefit of the timate also contains significant ar- would be an asset to the parish and website, retain all the church’s assets community. In the coming months I look forward to chitectural features, including its community. Despite being users for and meet the needs of parish and working with colleagues to work in ways that benefit sprung floor, counterweight balcony, decades, local groups such as ours community, while offering the po- the many, not the few, in Bowes and across Enfield. and plaster proscenium arch. In were not consulted in the church’s tential for a greater financial return. 1988, it was listed for dual use as a five-year building audit, because we Cllr Chibah is one of three councillors elected to theatre and church hall. are not considered parish groups. represent Bowes, alongside Yasemin Brett and Sadly, the church now views the Our knowledge of the venue would To sign the petition to save the Achilleas Georgiou (all Labour). Surgeries are held Intimate Theatre: every Saturday morning between 10.30am and theatre as a burden. They plan to have been a valuable asset and we Visit you.38degrees.org.uk/ 11.30am at Bowes Methodist Church, Palmerston Road. demolish it to make way for a block would have relished the opportuni- petitions/save-the-intimate-theatre- Call 020 8379 2827 of flats and new parish centre. To ty to take part. palmers-green Email [email protected] 9 No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH LETTERS Send us your letters Got an opinion on something in Enfield? We accept letters of up to 200 words from people and organisations in the borough. Email EnfieldDispatch@ Joan Ryan MP Credit parliament.uk socialspider.com before the next deadline on Wednesday 12th December.

Jean's loss is Gov't should widely felt be ashamed Dear Enfield Dispatch Dear Enfield Dispatch

t was with great sadness that staff, ver three years, foodbank trustees, volunteers, and clients usage in Enfield has rocketed I in Enfield's voluntary sector, Oby 13%. The number of food heard of the passing of Jean Passley supplies distributed in London from last month. Jean was a well-respected April to September 2018, compared member of Community Barnet, working to the same period last year, has risen as programme manager for Enfield by almost 25%. Connections, where her support to Poverty rates in Enfield are on the Mind in Enfield employees Carol and rise and far too many hardworking Sufia was invaluable. families are struggling to put food on Prior to working at Community Barnet, the table and feed their children. The Jean was employed at Mind in Enfield government’s policies risk making as a volunteer co-ordinator, and was this situation worse, not better – they a valued and loved member of staff should be ashamed. We need a fairer, during her time there. Jean was a warm better benefits system, but the Universal Why we have no and energetic person to be around and Credit (UC) rollout has been a disaster. generous with her time, willing to take I’m calling on the government to stop on extra tasks at a moment’s notice and the rollout of UC and fix the system, lend a hand in any emergency. before more families in Enfield and confidence in Joan Ryan Jean was a valued and active member elsewhere are plunged into poverty. of the Enfield community and endeav- The treasurer and vice-chair of Enfield North oured to improve the services available Joan Ryan to residents across the borough, making Enfield North MP Constituency Labour Party speak out about the it a better place for all. We will all miss her kindness and commitment to recent vote against their MP wellbeing in the local community, her inspiring attitude, and her gentle spirit Busy time for BY MIRA GLAVADARNOV & MARK FRENCH inside and outside of the workplace. Jean will be sadly missed by everyone. local police e are writing as of Joan Ryan, after she deliberately left”. The immediate dismissal of members of Enfield tried to undermine Jeremy Corbyn members' views is all too typical of Andrew Gurr W North Constituency outside of party structures. the approach that led to this vote. Community Barnet Dear Enfield Dispatch Labour Party (CLP), following a vote Examples included her quotes in She also tried to resort to anti- f you follow @MPSEnfield on of 'no confidence' in our Member the press that “Corbyn appals me” Semitism accusations, claiming Help for Twitter, you might have seen of Parliament, Joan Ryan. and “he is not interested in Middle the motion was made against her Iseveral videos of our police offi- We are part of a local party East peace – just in meeting terror- because of her position as chair of cers responding to anti-social behaviour membership that has massive- ists with blood on their hands”. Labour Friends of Israel. This is a stammerers calls at Halloween. One of our videos ly increased since the election of In the motion that was carried, very serious accusation against was picked up by Sky News and was Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn – it was stressed that disagreement political opponents which avoids Dear Enfield Dispatch watched thousands of times. It shocked finally giving voice to ordinary with leadership was not the issue. addressing our real concerns. people, as it showed officers having people who suffer under austerity Labour is a democratic party that As many Labour Party members s an Enfield resident and fireworks thrown directly at them in as the rich get richer. We are also welcomes debate, but ignoring due will know, this is not the first time member of the British and Irish Fore Street, Edmonton, by a large group Stammering Associations, I of youngsters. It highlighted the dangers an active part of the democratisa- process and using the hostile press Joan has acted in such a way. She is A was recently invited as a delegate to officers face when doing their job. tion process that is taking place and social media to smear the lead- not used to a democratic challenge attend the Irish Stammering Confer- More positively, we had over 150 within the Labour Party. er's character was not acceptable. and can only answer with insults. ence in Dublin. neighbourhood officers on patrol for On Thursday 6th September Prior to the vote, emails were sent It is not unusual that politicians The conference brought together stam- both Halloween and Bonfire Night, we carried a vote of 'no con- to all members – just under 1,000 whose time has passed at first try mering association members from and while it was undoubtedly a fidence' against Joan. We now people – inviting them to attend the to ignore the results and dismiss Britain, Ireland, Nigeria, and Canada, demanding time, we did see a reduc- wish to answer some of the slurs meeting and giving details about them as a “plot” by a small number with workshops, speakers, and events. tion in the total calls received. directed at us in the media since the motion. Around 200 members of people with “extreme” views. Furthermore, the awareness day high- We are now focused on Christmas and this happened. There have been turned up, which we understand is They don't realise that the world lighted that through support groups a how we can try to keep everyone safe misrepresentations of the reasons the highest number ever to attend around them is changing and that person who stammers does not have over the festive period. Our advice is for the vote by our MP, attempts an Enfield North CLP meeting. The the membership is reflecting that. to suffer in silence and that help is always to ensure gifts under the tree available. For example, with guidance are not visible from the outside and to to dismiss the result, as well as motion was heard and there was The Tory government's cuts, which finding a specialist speech therapist or remember to lock windows and doors attacks and insults directed at some an orderly debate, including an even the United Nations envoy has dealing with issues such as bullying in when you leave your homes. We will of the members in the press and address by Joan herself. The motion condemned, are doing immeasurable schools and workplaces. be out again in force on New Year's Eve social media. was passed by 95 to 92 votes. harm to the working class of Enfield Anyone needing help can call the British – another very busy one for the police The vote was part of a legitimate Afterwards, Joan immediately and the country – Labour’s anti- Stammering Association on 0208 983 – and in the meantime I wish every- democratic process by ordinary began to pour out abuse on Twitter, austerity message is a growing echo. 1003 or email [email protected] one in Enfield a very merry Christmas! party members. The motivation brandishing the 95 members who We are determined to campaign on Pat Sheils-Spurr Inspector Chris Byrne behind it was the long frustration backed the motion as “Trots, Stalin- this message and be part of electing Palmers Green Enfield Police felt by members over the conduct ists, Communists, and assorted hard a government to reverse austerity. 10 HEALTH No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH Your feedback matters The latest local health and social care updates from Healthwatch Enfield everyone who got involved concern about travel implications, in conversations on proposed particularly for vulnerable groups. changes to joint surgery (such as Our report finds that patients hip replacements) in Enfield. We outlined clear caveats that any have now submitted our report changes should guarantee shorter with all your feedback to the North waiting times and better care; easy London Partners in Health and Care access for patients and their carers; and you can read it on our website. and availability of high-quality Feedback from Enfield and other staff and facilities. Stay tuned to neighbouring boroughs is now Healthwatch Enfield for more being considered, with a view to information and updates on this. deciding whether a more detailed Finally, what local health and social proposal should be put together for care services are most important public consultation early next year. to you? This month we are asking If you missed it in the last edition Enfield residents how they think of Enfield Dispatch, proposals to our work could most help improve reduce the number of hospitals services. Please take our short online that provide planned surgery for survey at smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ bones and joints are currently being PrioritiesNextYear considered. The operations would be provided in specialist centres instead. For more information about On the plus side, the centres could Healthwatch Enfield and to get provide world-class care and bring in touch: Healthwatch Enfield volunteers at North Hospital teaching, research, and innovation Call 020 8373 6283 BY CLAIRE FISHER Edmonton, earlier this year and are opening times for its children’s opportunities to orthopaedics. Email [email protected] now known simply as 'Angel Surgery'. blood clinic, which now operates However, there is currently no Tweet @HealthwatchEnf id you know that Dover Patients of Dover House should call between 9am and 12pm as well as information on where the centres Visit healthwatchenfield.co.uk House and Angel GP 020 8887 7555 for appointments. 1pm to 5pm during the week. You might be located. Although one surgeries have merged? Has your child ever needed a can book your child’s test online in two of those surveyed agreed D The practices began to be co- blood test? North Middlesex Uni- or simply call 020 8887 2366. Next with the concept of specialist located at Silverpoint in Fore Street, versity Hospital has extended I'd like to say a big 'thank you' to centres, there was significant

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Advertisement Shopping local is for life

Jo Johnson from Love Your Doorstep urges people to shop local all year round

t Love Your Doorstep we're celebrating our seventh year of supporting local businesses. Not long after the community forum wasA set up as a Facebook group, following the 2011 riots in Enfield, it was clear that people were finding it a useful arena to recommend local businesses. The platform helped promote small firms, especially those without a website or physical premises. One of the aims has been for people to have the oppor- tunity to get to know the person behind each business – all 750 of them, including charities, community groups, and schools. Sadly, we are seeing a major challenge Shopping to existing high street businesses: online shopping. local has many According to a recent report from the accountancy benefits, says Jo Johnson firm PwC, 14 shops are closing every day, nationwide. This amounts to 2,692 shops shutting in the first half of 2018, with London seeing the largest number of shop closures in the UK. But where fashion stores, electrical shops, and Italian restaurant chains, have seen the biggest closures; supermarkets, book- sellers, ice cream parlours and coffee shops are growing. Clearly there is pres- sure on our high street retailers, but there is also something we can do to save our shops. The first A family enjoying the Christmas lights switch-on in Palmers Green Saturday in December is an important date that we Credit Dana Burstow like to support annually; on 'Small Business Saturday' people are urged to make a conscious carols and everyone joined in en- effort to support local businesses. But Love Your thusiastically, including local MP Doorstep also aims to promote this ethos all year Bambos Charalambous and Deputy round and create a ‘shop local’ habit among our Mayor of Enfield Kate Anolue. community. So here's three good reasons to shop local. Everyone enjoyed the singsong First; a unique shopping experience. Shopping with but, as is always the case, people a local business is a really special experience, fuelled were a bit uncertain what 'nine' is with extra passion and care. You are able to build a in the Twelve Days of Christmas (it’s relationship with the people behind the business. “nine ladies dancing” by the way). The personal touch helps to create repeat customers. Just when everyone thought the Second; it strengthens the local economy. When event was drawing to a close, who you choose to spend your money locally you are could be heard approaching down choosing to invest in the economy of your commu- with bells ringing, but nity. This is also helped by local businesses choosing Mr and Mrs Claus! Accompanied to use local suppliers of products and services, along Lighting up by elves in their motorised 'sleigh', with being able to offer employment opportunities. they handed out sweets and – Last but not least; it makes high streets more BY DANA BURSTOW While the lights themselves are for the health-conscious – pieces attractive. To prevent the decline of the high street pretty, shops have also entered of fruit. The children went wild! we need to support independent businesses but we he local community came into friendly competition for the The event could not have hap- also need to visit chain shops; both have a place on out in force to welcome the best-dressed window, leading pened without everyone pulling our high street. No-one wants to see vacant shops festive season to Palmers to some great creativity. Chil- together, contributing to the creating an eyesore on our doorstep. TGreen town centre with a Christmas dren were invited to vote for decorations, donating food and lights switch-on event last month. their favourite and the winner drink, singing, and just taking part. Local businesses and residents will be announced in December. Also, watch out for the Christmas For more information about Love Your Doorstep: organised a string of activities Walker Primary School's choir led elf hunt competition being organ- Email [email protected] to brighten the darkening days. the crowd in singing Christmas ised by Cyplon Travel! Visit loveyourdoorstep.co.uk 12 ARTS & CULTURE No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH Ashley Driver (second from right) stars as Scrooge in A Christmas Carol Credit Ava de Souza Festive family traditions Hannah Dyson looks forward to a cosy Christmas or the last four years my a simple cardboard box decorated family has attended the with festive wrapping paper, con- annual Christingle Service at taining new pyjamas and a special FSt Luke’s Church, Clay Hill. For us, Christmas book. This year the box Christingle signifies the beginning of includes a beautiful snowy white Christmas, a ritual that brings together hardback of A Christmas Carol by the whole community in celebration. Charles Dickens, The Nutcracker by Christingles are prepared in the Ernst Hoffman, Geronimo by David days preceding the service and are Walliams, plus new bear onesies, made with a large orange, a red matching grey Christmas pyjamas, ribbon, and a candle placed inside marshmallows, and a hot chocolate. the orange. Toothpicks surround My children will certainly be warm the outside of the orange, holding and cosy as they prepare their stock- an assortment of sweets in place. ings for the fireplace. They will Silhouettes surround the perimeter leave mince pies, carrots, sherry, of the church; puffer jackets, hats milk and cookies, for the 'arrival' and scarves guard against the chill. of Santa, and then snuggle on Candles flicker, creating a magical the sofa together with their new glow, eyes glistening with anticipation. books and a warming hot drink. Away In A Manger is sung with gusto by We are also going to see a panto adults and children alike. An amalga- at in Edmon- mation of all the colours of a Saharan ton; Beauty and the Beast. My work desert sunset shimmer around the colleague Trudy is taking her Your all inclusive Christmas church; reds, yellows and oranges three-year-old granddaughter make us feel hope, joy, and elation, and suggested we go together – but also let us reflect on how lucky we we can't contain our excitement! A theatre in is gearing up for its are to all be together in this moment. After the show we will take the annual festive extravanganza I love studying the children’s faces as train to London to visit Regent Street, they concentrate so hard at holding see the Christmas lights, admire BY SUSAN JAMESON is not really Christmas until moves Scrooge – this man who the candle in place and not dropping the window decorations at Liberty, they’ve seen our show. previously said: “Every idiot who it, some so nervous at the task, their and soak up the Christmas Eve at- he festive period is a For 2018, we’ve chosen to create goes around with Merry Christmas hands trembling and their candle mosphere at Trafalgar Square. We massively busy time at a brand new production based on his lips should be buried with a spilling tiny flecks of wax on the floor. will then take the train home to TChickenshed – our brand on the Charles Dickens classic A stake of holly through his heart!” Most children, including my own, are Enfield when it will be nearly time new musical version of A Christ- Christmas Carol – one that perhaps At we believe in the cheeky and eat most of the sweets for this year’s Christingle service. mas Carol will run for seven invented the modern idea of value and importance of every before Away In The Manger is finished! Christmas Eve is a special day for us weeks, with 59 performanc- 'Christmas'. The famous story individual. This is what ultimate- The Christmas Eve box is now a firm and we may be exhausted by Christ- es and 800 people in the cast! of the mean skinflint Ebenezer ly transforms Scrooge, who gets festive tradition for my family. It is mas Day, but it is totally worth it. As if that isn’t enough, we to know and care about Tiny also have a show for young Tim, rather than some obscure audiences called Christmas “We believe in notion of ‘the poor’ or ‘the sick’ Tales, which performs 19 and who then feels the tragedy shows in our theatre and the value and of his loss so terribly. Chicken- 20 at Dugdale Centre in shed works to give a voice to Enfield. All this means importance of all young people – those who that more than 20,000 might be ignored, left behind, people will see a Chicken- every individual” or disregarded. And because shed show this Christmas. we work to include everyone, So why choose to watch a Chick- Scrooge coming to understand when you see one of our shows enshed show? For more than 40 its true meaning, after visitations you’ll see what society really looks years we’ve been showcasing our from four ghosts, is of course well like. We can guarantee a great vision of social inclusion, creat- known. Scrooge is shown scenes show that will leave you feeling ing beautiful theatre by bringing from his own Christmases past, uplifted and inspired! together children and young present and future, but also the people from all backgrounds and experiences of the Cratchits, and abilities. We believe that by includ- especially of Tiny Tim. A Christmas Carol is on at Chickenshed from now until ing and welcoming everyone, truly It is in fact (spoiler alert!) not his Saturday 5th January. Christmas amazing things can happen. It’s own miserable end foretold that Tales is on at Dugdale Centre from been said that Chickenshed offers changes him; rather it is being Wednesday 5th December until Sunday 30th December. For more a glimpse of a better world, and we shown that Tiny Tim is no longer information and to buy tickets: know that many of our most loyal where he should be, at the heart Call 020 8292 9222 audience members say that it of the Cratchit family. This is what Visit chickenshed.org.uk Hannah Dyson's children, Zara and Beatrix 13 No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH LISTINGS

Advertisement Submit your listing We can include low-cost community events taking place in Enfield. For January listings, email the details of your event to [email protected] by Wednesday 12th December.

THEATRE CINEMA

Wizard of Oz, The Pantomime Talkies present Mountain From Thursday 6th until Thursday 6th December, 7pm Saturday 15th December Dugdale Centre, 39 London Road, The Intimate Theatre, Green Lanes, Enfield EN2 6DS A new musical version of Charles Dickens’ Palmers Green N13 4DH classic tale, set in the 1930s Collated from more than 2,000 hours of

Sponsored by Help Dorothy get home in time for footage shot in 15 countries, Mountain 21 Nov - 5 Jan Christmas in this fun-filled original is a 70-minute rush of adrenaline, a For ages 5+ production brought to you by the safari into the sublime, a vertiginous award-winning London Pantomimers. voyage to the top of the world. Suitable for ages from two to 102! Tickets £6.50 Free entry Visit talkies.org.uk/event/ Tickets £10 mountain Call 07932 607 901 Christmas Email boxoffice@ Tales londonpantomimers.org.uk MUSIC A fun and festive show POETRY Christmas Concerto Winchmore Hill Methodist Church, for children up Green Lanes, Winchmore Hill N13 4EP

to 7 years! Enfield Poets Christmas Evening Saturday 1st December, 7.30pm The Christmas Concerto by Giuseppe Room 4, Dugdale Centre, 39 London Torelli, an accomplished writer of the Box Office: 020 8292 9222 Road, Enfield EN2 6DS 'concerto grosso' in which a small group of solo instrumentalists are 5 - 30 Dec www.chickenshed.org.uk accompanied by a larger ensemble. Registered charity no:1012369 Readers from the floor will be fol- lowed by guest poet Christine Vial Tickets £9, concessions £7.50 reading from her debut collection Call 020 8882 0351 Dancing in Blue Flip-Flops. Email [email protected] £3.50 entry, concessions £2.50 Visit enfieldpoets.com Enfield Choral Society's POETRY CORNER Christmas Concert Saturday 15th December, 7.30pm St Stephen's Church, Bush Hill Park, 56 Village Road, Enfield EN1 2EU 1968 – Enfield Rolling Mills HEALTH by Anthony Fisher We will be performing a selection of Christmas music, songs, carols, Weekly Tai Chi and readings. Thursdays, 12.30pm (last session of the year 20th December) Tickets £10, children/students £5 My only way home was across the line. I remember a thousand bicycles Wheatsheaf Hall, Main Avenue, Bush Call 07538 538 486 eddying around me, held back by gates as slow as the locks of the Lee. Hill Park EN1 1D Email tickets@ enfieldchoralsociety.org.uk Tai Chi is an excellent holistic system for One rider was a “Catcher”. I had watched him as he stood health and general wellbeing. Sessions can be adapted to suit people with a by a low steel barrier holding long and unwieldy tongs. health condition. No booking needed. FESTIVE £1 entry He wore an overcoat down to his boots, tied with string at his waist. Email martynne@ shaneproject.org.uk Christmas Carol Singing Thirty foot of luminous, copper rod shot through a small hole at his feet. Visit shaneproject.org.uk Sunday 23rd December, 4pm Music Room, Raynham Primary Singing for the Brain School, Raynham Avenue, As quick as a mongoose he caught it by the neck, Tuesday 4th & 11th Dec, 2pm–4pm Edmonton N18 2JQ snapped it over and around to flail down a long, iron chute. Bourne Methodist Church, The Bourne, Southgate N14 6RS Agape House invites all to our Christmas carol singing and talk, followed by light He threaded it back through the barrier to be pulled, to be rolled to wire. Bringing people with dementia and refreshments and networking. their careers together in a friendly, fun, and social environment. Free entry The factory with great crucibles of flowing, smoking metal gone, he is no more. Free entry Call 07951 881 991 Call 020 3725 3001 Email charismaticsuk@ Email [email protected] yahoo.co.uk 14 NEWS No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH

AROUND THE BOROUGH

BUSH HILL PARK EDMONTON PALMERS GREEN Conservatives triumph MP's son admits drug offences Wetlands THE SON OF EDMONTON MP KATE sentenced to a two-year community in by-election Osamor has quit as a councillor in order and 20 days of rehabilitation. approved Haringey after admitting his guilt Ishmael expressed “great regret” councillor and I am excited that he PLANS TO CREATE A WETLAND to drugs offences. at the incident as he resigned from wildlife area in Broomfield Park is joining the Conservative team in Ishmael Osamor, 29, is under- Haringey Council. He said: "I apol- Enfield. Thank you so much to every- have been granted permission. stood to still be employed as a ogise for the unwelcome attention Enfield Council approved the one who helped on the campaign.” senior communications officer my case has brought to Haringey.” James Hockney is a 40-year-old small wetlands scheme despite concerns by Kate in the House of Commons. Asked by the Dispatch whether raised by Historic England about its business owner and amateur racing The former Labour councillor Ishmael was still employed driver. He previously served as a impact on the park. The council has was caught in possession of £2,500- by his mother in parliment, a launched two similar wetland areas councillor for South Cambridgeshire worth of illegal drugs at Bestival Labour Party spokesperson said: District Council, prior to moving at Firs Farm and Prince of Wales music festival in Dorset. “We don't comment on staffing Open Space. They are said to reduce with his family to Enfield. He said on In October Ishmael admitted to matters.” Kate's Edmonton con- Twitter: “Huge honour to be elected flood risk, improve water quality, four drugs-related charges at stituency office declined to add and provide new habitats for wildlife. as the Bush Hill Park councillor – Bournemouth Crown Court and was any further comment. thank you to everyone who helped.” However, the proposed Broomfield Former Tory councillor Jon Daniels Park Wetlands project has been Tory candidate James Hockney resigned in October after saying he BOWES criticised by Historic England for defeated Labour's Bevin Betton was struggling to balance his work potentially harming the park's and family commitments. Bush Hill Councillor sacked over historic features. Last year, the public body added the park to its at-risk THE OPPOSITION CONSERVATIVES Park ward is now represented by two successfully defended their Bush Hill Conservative councillors rather than Pinkham Way concerns register and declared Broomfield Park seat in a by-election prompted three, however, after Will Coleshill House was “at immediate risk”. BOWES COUNCILLOR YASEMIN could not participate in the debate. by the resignation of Jon Daniels. was suspended by the party for It now argues the wetlands will Brett has been sacked from the Council leader Nesil Caliskan Labour’s Bevin Betton had hopes making racist comments at a council “result in the permanent alteration cabinet of Enfield Council after later issued a statement: “I intend of defeating Tory candidate meeting in September. Cllr Coleshill of part of the surviving parkland”. expressing concern about a wild- to reappoint the same councillor James Hockney after coming 64 is now an independent member. Citing similar concerns, Enfield's life sanctuary. within two weeks. In the mean- votes short of victory in the ward Council leader Nesil Caliskan said: planning committee rejected Cllr Brett walked out of a cabinet time, I have taken responsibility only six months ago – but in “This by-election was triggered by Broomfield Park Wetlands in meeting last month prior to a dis- for the public health portfolio. November's poll lost by 712 votes. the resignation of a Conservative September. But planning officers cussion on the North London Waste The reason for my decision is that The Tory vote share in the Bush Hill councillor. The election result was subsequently made changes and Plan, which includes Pinkham our cabinet operates on the basis Park by-election was 52% (up 13%), not a gain for the Conservatives or a recommended it be approved, claim- Way in Haringey borough as a po- of collective positions and confi- compared to Labour’s 28% (down 9%). loss to Labour. Enfield Labour Party ing it would help reduce flood risk to tential site for waste disposal. The dence. I take the integrity of the Councillor Joanne Laban, leader is of course disappointed because 303 homes and offered “real tangible former cabinet member for public cabinet structure of the council of the Conservatives on Enfield we fight for every vote and the view benefits... that outweigh the less than health claimed her concern for to be very important.” Council, said: “It was a fantas- of every resident matters to us.” substantial harm to heritage assets”. wildlife at the Site of Importance Cllr Brett was approached for tic result for the Conservatives Turnout for the by-election The plans were approved last month for Nature Conservation meant she comment. in Enfield. James will be great was 27.9%. by a vote of four to three.

Full results for the Bush Hill Park by-election ENFIELD TOWN held on 22nd November 2018 Free fitness classes Lights 'boost' James Hockney (Conservative) 1,540 votes (52.4%) FREE FITNESS CLASSES HAVE BEEN The Our Parks website has a CHRISTMAS LIGHTS HAVE BEEN launched in . booking system that allows users switched on after Enfield Town Bevin Betton (Labour) 828 votes (28.2%) The 'Our Parks' classes take to view classes in their area which Business Association (ETBA) place at 10am every Saturday and are colour-coded to indicate raised £7,443 to pay for them. Robert Wilson (Lib Dems) 313 votes (10.7%) are delivered to over-16s by fully the level of intensity, and also A crowdfunder saw 61 people pledge qualified and registered coaches. incorporate tools such as BMI money. ETBA claimed Enfield Town Benjamin Maydon (Green) 127 votes (4.3%) Sponsored by Sport England, the and mood calculators which are was “a shadow of its former self” classes are part of an initiative designed to incentivise users. but that Christmas lights were a Tulip Hambleton (Women’s Equality) 79 votes (2.7%) that seeks to “harnesses the Local people who want to get way to bring more shoppers back. power of technology and sport” involved can register online Cllr Joanne Laban, who donated, Erol Ovayolu (Independent) 50 votes (1.7%) and aims to make outdoor classes at ourparks.org.uk/borough/ said: “Christmas lights will increase accessible, enjoyable, and free. pymmes-park. footfall and give Enfield a boost.” 15 SPORT No.3 DECEMBER 2018 ENFIELD DISPATCH

Net gains The new courts at Firs Farm are open from 9am until 9pm Floodlit courts can be used Credit Enfield Council all year round

nfield's first-ever flood- high-quality facilities, we can help lit tennis courts have been the community become more active, opened. provide opportunities for training E The four new courts at Firs Farm and volunteering and make use of in Winchmore Hill are free to use our fantastic open spaces.” during off-peak hours, and at peak LTA board member Sandi Procter times can be hired for as little as £4 and the Friends of Firs Farm Recre- per hour. The floodlights allow the ation Ground also came to support the facility to open from 9am until 9pm launch. Sandi said: “Our research has all year round. shown that for those who don’t play The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) tennis but would like to, 80% would has helped to develop and deliver the see a park court as their first option. courts and continue to work with “This is fantastic news that Enfield Enfield Council on its tennis pro- Council has taken a proactive gramme, which includes a £500,000 approach to promoting tennis in investment in the sport locally. their parks and we look forward to At the opening of the new Firs Farm welcoming the next tennis stars of tennis courts, council leader Nesil the future.” Caliskan was joined by LTA members As well as the new courts at Firs and students from Firs Farm Primary Farm, court refurbishments are due School. They received some coaching to take place at Albany Park, Arnos advice from Primal Health Tennis Park, Craig Park, and Town Park. “We look forward to Academy, which is based in neigh- bouring Bush Hill Park. welcoming the next For more information on playing Cllr Caliskan said: “This is a very tennis in Enfield: tennis stars of the future” exciting development for Enfield. Visit clubspark.lta.org.uk/ By facilitating the development of tennisinenfield

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