WestcombeNEWS Free to 3800 homes, & in libraries & some shops March 2017 No. 2 A community newspaper commended by the London Forum of Amenity & Civic Societies Inspectors judge the merits of the Tunnel
he Westcombe Society has that TfL must show that traffic been crossing the Thames levels will not increase from cur- Tto take part in the Public rent levels, and that air pollution Investigation into the Silvertown levels will improve overall with Tunnel plans. Along with Knight no area worsening. Without that, Dragon (developers on the we cannot support the scheme. Greenwich Peninsula), the Health But such guarantees are hard Members of St George’s congregation took part in a march in central London against the policies of D. and Safety Executive, affected to believe. Objectors, including Trump. A popular slogan: “Build bridges, not walls!” In the words of the outgoing Bishop of London, boroughs, the Port of London the Westcombe Society, have Richard Chartres: “I find it impossible to believe that Jesus Christ would approve of erecting barriers Authority, and many others, we argued that the current queues between people and in any way demeaning sections of the community.” have been representing our views indicate a high level of demand Greenwich too has concerns, new bus routes, and how the Anatomy of a hearing to the Planning Inspectorate team for the crossing, and that it will including pressure on the charges will affect people – who must judge the planning be tough to set the charges at a Woolwich Ferry and the effects of especially those on low incomes. The hearings are illuminating. Held merits of the proposal. level which will control traffic an estimated extra 100 vehicles And they have been very clear mainly at the Excel Centre, they that they want everyone to have a The Silvertown Tunnel is the without seeming unfair. per hour at rush hour through the have concentrated on air quality & voice through the proceedings, Transport for London scheme to Analysis suggests that south- World Heritage Site. Despite noise aspects; traffic modelling; including individuals who might add a new road crossing of the bound traffic will increase, with these concerns, Greenwich still economic impacts; as well as on Thames, running roughly under the bottleneck on the A102 from actively wants the Silvertown feel quite shy, given the array of issues about how the tunnel would the line of the Emirates Airway, the Sun in Sands junction getting Tunnel. It is the only borough professionals at the table. be governed. between the Greenwich Peninsula worse. In recent that supports In relation to Westcombe Park, At the head of the table sit the and Canning Town. TfL argue submissions, TfL ANNE ROBBINS the plans. the Inspectors have taken a strong three Planning Inspectors; down one that the new road would relieve has admitted that interest in the Siebert Road side is the TfL team, with ten or so the pressure on the Blackwall its traffic modelling did not Role of the STIG committee campaign for fencing to lessen staff members and a barrister; local Tunnel, alleviating the queues of include overheight vehicles – the But none of the local authorities the air pollution and noise affect- authority representatives sit across traffic for commuters and longer- very large lorries not currently is happy with TfL’s plans for ing them and their neighbours from the Inspectors; and on the other distance users. able to drive north through the “STIG”– the Silvertown Tunnel down Westcombe Hill and up side are speakers from various They say that it would improve Blackwall Tunnel. They would Implementation Group. This Invicta Road. On a site visit, they statutory bodies along with the air quality along the A102, and be able to use the new Silvertown would be a committee formed were invited into a resident’s objectors. Everything is recorded: that they will add several new bus Tunnel, and TfL say there could from the boroughs, acting for garden to see the effects for you can hear the oral submissions routes which can travel through be up to 400 per day heading around eight years during the themselves, and they continue to on the Inquiry’s website: https:/ /infrastructure. planninginspectorate. the full-sized bores of the new north along the A102. building and the early years of ask TfL for clear indications that gov.uk/projects/london/ tunnel. Users would have to pay running the scheme. TfL say they the fence will be built in the event silvertown-tunnel/ of planning permission for the charges, depending on when they What the boroughs think would consult it about the plans Some of the exchanges that take new Tunnel being granted. use the road. TfL say the charges Newham, on the north side, is for charges and mitigating local place are surprisingly fiery! As Rebecca Moore, of Siebert would control demand for the unhappy about the extra air impacts. But STIG would meet The written submissions are also crossing, pay the construction pollution and noise from at least only annually, and at this point Road, wrote, ‘… we would just available too, and there are a lot. costs, and eventually contribute to 10,000 vehicle movements per there is no obligation for TfL to like a legal guarantee that this You’ll get a sense of that if you click public transport funds. day. All the boroughs are aware follow its advice. will happen before the building of on the button for the Examination The Environment Committee of the dangers of displaced traffic, the Silvertown Tunnel. Ensuring Library. The filter is a fast way to of your Westcombe Society held whether flocking to use a free- The role of the inspectors this is incredibly important to us search for particular documents: two public meetings during the flowing river crossing e.g. It does seem that the Planning as it will mitigate the noise, just type in, say, ‘Greenwich’ and the public consultations to take through Lewisham, or away from Inspectors are asking tough ques- vibration and pollution from the list below will show all of our local soundings from residents. We it to use an uncharged crossing tions. They want TfL to justify construction traffic.’ authority submissions. used them to develop our position like the Rotherhithe Tunnel. its traffic modelling, its claims of (continued on page3) The Westcombe < < Newsbriefs > > Society
BREXIT: Don’t hold your breath in beautiful bridges resembling birds in flight. • marrying an EU citizen Daffodil Tea Sat 18th The views of our MP, Matt Pennycook, are well- • naturalisation. Finland is quite easy to join, but Let’s hope he’s more into bridges than walls – known: he voted to remain. But he takes the view you would have to put up with Finnish winters for if his plans include social and affordable dwellings March 2.00 - 4.00 pm that in the interests of democracy MPs should be five years; you would also have to learn Finnish – along with those most of us cannot afford. guided by the results of the referendum, and reputed to be one of the hardest languages in the The Daffodil Tea for Senior accordingly voted in favour of activating Article world to learn..... Friends of Mycenae Gardens Citizens is by invitation; 50. At least he didn’t do a Diane Abbot ... Perhaps after all everyone should just stay with The Friends of Mycenae Gardens will hold their however anyone who doesn’t But Matt insists that the negotiations should the UK... ! 2017 Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 22 have “red lines” including the defence of workers’ March in Greenwich Steiner School SE3 7SE receive an invitation and who would like to come, rights, and access to the European single market. Antique Road Show in Blackheath It is a great opportunity to meet others who share With these red lines we might end up in the EU Any Old Irons? One person’s junk is another’s an interest in the Gardens, and all are welcome. At please ring Caroline on after all ... Optimists hope for a typical European antique! Find out what you’ve got – and what it’s the meeting you can elect your new committee, 020 8853 0948. fudge; those less optimistic think a “Hard Brexit” worth, on Sunday March 5th, when Eric Knowles find out what has been happening in the Gardens will be inescapable following years of tough from the Antiques Roadshow comes to Blackheath and the Woodland Dell over the last year, as well Spring Quiz Sat. 1st April, negotiations with the 27 countries of the EU. Halls. Eric will be giving a talk about his career in as hear about future plans. antiques as well as offering ticket holders the chance Anyone who would like to become a member 7.30pm for 8.00pm start in Tips for a desperate Remainer to bring in their own heirlooms for valuation before of the Friends group can do so by visiting FMGs Mycenae House.£5.00 entry for Do you have an urge to Exit after Brexit? If you and after the show – with the most interesting spoken website.www.mycenaegardens.org.uk members / £6.00 non-members have a parent or a grandparent who is or was an about on stage during the second half of the show. Alternatively you can send an email to: Please ring Caroline on 8853 EU citizen, you could apply for citizenship by [email protected] right of descent – though the situation varies from Peninsula plans 0948 – booking by 24th March. country to country. Ireland would be a good bet. In February, the Times included an interesting Home is where the hut is Fish/Chicken & Chip suppers or If that doesn’t work for you, you could buy feature on developments on the peninsula. It Belated Happy Birthday to local historian Neil simply chips must be ordered citizenship in Malta if you have 1.5 million Euros reminded us that we have on our doorstep the Rhind, who celebrated his eightieth birthday at in advance. Bar open. to spare, though you would need to be a resident biggest single residential development in the Blackheath Concert Halls in January. The cake Form a team - or come whole of Europe – and among the architects is the for a year – for those who know Malta, this was in the shape of Blackheath Tea Hut which and join a team! would be no hardship! Two other options: distinguished Spaniard, Calatrava. He specialises Neil was once very keen to demolish. Westcombe Society WESTCOMBE NEWS Annual Volunteers’ Party
ALL EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE TO: Neville Grant, The Editor [email protected] Tel. 020 8858 8489 ALL MATERIAL TO BE SENT TO: [email protected] Deadline for April: 16th March Environment Editor: Maggie s usual, the party was held for our volunteers to thank Gravelle them for all they do to support the activities of the Reporters: The community – that Asociety. We were very pleased to welcome Toni means you! Hale, of the Mental Health Activity Trust, as a guest at the party, where Marilyn handed over a cheque for £2,000. The ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MHAT is the Society’s 2016-7 “Charity of the Year”. Emily Norton All queries and PHOTOS: Neville Grant In a moving speech, Tony said how much this grant meant comments to: 020 8853 2756 to her and those she called “her family”. The aim of the Trust [email protected] New members, old members, guests – all had a great time at was to support people with mental health problems and help DISTRIBUTION Emily Norton and the Volunteers’ Party in February in Mycenae House. Many them back into employment. Everyone was very impressed volunteers. thanks to the Events Committee for laying it all on. to hear that 41 people had so far been helped in this way. Volunteer distributors please phone 020 8853 2756 , we need your help! The WS needs YOU! The Westcombe Society really appreciates ADVERTISING MANAGER Beating the help of volunteers – and the support Marilyn Little, 163 Westcombe we already have says a great deal about Hill, SE3 7DP 020 8853 1312 the sense of community that exists in our [email protected] the winter area. However, the society still needs All adverts payable in advance by * more people to help out at events such cheque to The Westcombe Society. as the Senior Citizens’ Teas DISPLAY: Single column 6cm x 6cm: * more editorial assistance for the WN. One - four issues £35, five-plus issues £30 fuel blues Emily Norton, our Distribution Manager, each. Other sizes: please inquire. Classified Ads (Market Place) 30p per word f you know of anyone who adds: “Could you help deliver the WN (A telephone number = one word. An email/ Iis worried about paying either on an occasional or regular basis? web address = 3 words.) Deadline for all their gas and electricity bills We especially need help from those who adverts is 10th day of the preceding month. this winter, help is at hand. A live in blocks of flats who might be able Printed by: Trojan Press local community group is to deliver to their block and for occasional cover when people are away.” Contact the Westcombe Society: offering free advice on how to If you think you could help please call [email protected] get the best energy deals and Emily on 020 8853 2756. Publisher: The Westcombe Society how to keep the cold out. Chairman: Marilyn Little Trained energy advisors Tel. 020 8853 1312 from South East London St George’s, Glenluce Rd. Community Energy (SELCE) Westcombe Park The v iews expressed in the Westcombe are offering individual support News are not necessarily those of the Sundays: 11.00 am Children’s Church over a cup of tea and cake at Westcombe Society or of the Editor. Wellington St, London SE18 6HQ 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion (All Age We take all reasonable precautions to weekly advice sessions in Woolwich and and on Tuesdays from 10.00am to 4.00pm service 1st Sunday of each month) protect the interests of our readers by Catford. at Lewisham Homes' customer support Wednesdays: 8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer ensuring as far as possible the bona fides The SELCE co-operative has secured of our advertisers but cannot accept any office on the ground floor of Catford Old 12:30 p.m. Soup Lunch Fellowship funding from the government's Big Energy Town Hall, Catford Road, London, SE6 responsibility for them. Any complaints Sceptics Group meets at 89 Westcombe should be addressed to the advertiser. Saving Network initiative, and its energy 4RU. The sessions are available until advisors are ensuring that residents are March 20th 2017. Pk Road) 1st & 3rd Sunday each month To access back-numbers (in colour) go to: getting access to available support and Interested in attending a session? Drop Special Events in March www.westcombesociety.org/westcombe-news/ services as well as help with fuel bill in on the day or book an appointment on Wed. March 15th 7.30 at St George’s: Westcombe Society’s Blog: arrears. Spiritual Film Night: The Robe starring http://westcombe.blogspot.com SELCE's website at selce.org.uk/energy- The new Energy Cafés are being held on advice/ energy-cafe/ Anyone attending a Richard Burton & Victor Mature WESTCOMBE SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP Mondays from 10.00am to 4.00pm at the session should bring their latest gas and Contact: Revd Tim Yeager Woolwich Centre Main Library foyer, 35 Please send this membership form to: electricity bills with them. [email protected] Tel. 07804 614245 Christine Legg, 69 Mycenae Road, London, SE3 7SE Name...... Letters Address...... From: Victoria Line Westcombe Park Rd ...... I read with not a little fury about Greenwich Council's 'eviction Tel...... notice' to the users of the community garden. Greenwich Council is apparently seeking planning permission Email: ...... prior to selling off the land, so its hand-wringing about creating Please enclose payment as appropriate: much needed new homes is somewhat disingenuous. The buyers of these doubtless 'luxury' homes are not those in need. Family Membership £12 [ ] Tony Othen's hope that the presence of the old Greenwich Park Individual Membership £8 [ ] Line railway tunnel will prevent development is sadly misplaced. Senior Citizens/unwaged £4 [ ] Much of the tunnel is already built over, for example, the newer properties in Blissett Street. Correction. The WN usually operates like a well-oiled machine (sic). However, From: Nick Raynsford February’s WN contained the headline Thanks for sending me a copy of the latest edition of WN, which has London’s toxic air – MP’s accusations. We clearly gone from strength to strength. apologise for the misplaced apostrophe. Well done. Thank you also for printing Jim Wintour's very kind The last two words should of course have review of my book. It was a pleasure to write the book and I have read MPs’ accusations. Ed. been gratified by the many positive responses it has generated. I just wish that the political climate both here in the UK and internationally was more conducive to the kind of serious political dialogue that in my view is essential if we are to restore confidence and overcome the cynicism and populist ranting that now dominates political debate.
From: Andrew J Graham Vanbrugh Hill In February, the WN said that no major tree work can be carried out without the Council’s permission. In reality this is not true. A neighbour’s contractor butchered my 60 ft birch tree without my permission. I contacted the Council, but they chose to ignore me.
From: Marilyn Little Westcombe Hill The AGM of the Westcombe Society takes place some time in May. (TBC) At the AGM members decide on what local organisation or www.headstart.it charity should be our “Charity of the Year”. Please send in your suggestions or proposals to me at [email protected] 2 Westcombe News March 2017 LOCAL NEWS YMCA? Why Not? Nursery schools under threat
re you aged between 18 and 34, in • No recent history of serious anti- ll parents need to be fully informed “Reception teachers tell us they can Aemployment, and looking for a new social behaviour or rent arrears Aabout the threat to Nursery Schools always tell a Robert Owen child, because home? A new low rent housing scheme is • Able to pay the rent through income across the country. Here in Greenwich, they are resilient and ready to read!” now available through the council, in and/or housing benefit and be eligible to there are four, including Robert Owen Why are Nursery Schools so important?• partnership with YMCA Thames Gateway. claim for housing benefit Nursery School and Children’s Centre in * 99% of Nursery Schools are rated good YMCA is the largest and the oldest • Low or no support needs identified Commerell Street. The Government has or outstanding by Ofsted – making them charity working with young people in the • Have attended or be willing to attend introduced a new early years national the most successful sector of education world. Across England there are 114 the Money House (18-25) Financial funding formula for nursery schools that is * Nursery Schools have qualified teachers YMCAs. Each one is a thriving and active Confidence Training effective from April 2017. Next month! who make a huge difference to children’s community, a community that is transform- • Must have a housing application This funding formula is affecting local learning and development ing lives. registered with the Royal Borough of authorities in different ways. In three * 60% of Nursery Schools are in the most There is a mixture of bedsits and one Greenwich. years’ time nursery schools will all lose a deprived parts of the country, and thus bedroom properties available from the 50+ To register your interest, please email: large sum of funding: if this shortfall is not help disadvantaged children homes in the Woolwich Dockyard area. To housing- made up, nursery schools may be forced * They provide specialist support for be eligible for the scheme the applicants [email protected] to close. The Royal Borough of Greenwich children with Special Educational Needs must have 5 years continuous residence in You must give your housing reference is doing its best to support the four nursery the Royal Borough of Greenwich and: number (also known as your bidding and Disabilities in a fully inclusive way schools in Greenwich but the WN has * Greenwich is the highest performing • Aged 18-34 number) and state that you are interested learnt that it cannot sustain such a loss. • In work or work-related training in the YMCA housing scheme. borough in the country for the Early Years These schools are hugely important. Ruth Foundation Stage Profile and Nursery Mercer, the head of Robert Owen says: Schools contribute to this success The Tunnel (cont. from page 1.) “This school has provided nursery * Our Nursery Schools, including the four education for young children in East in Greenwich offer initial teacher training Greenwich for 70 years. We have highly for specialist early years’ teachers with Greenwich is also pressing for action on three months in which to make their qualified and experienced teachers and a Qualified Teacher Support. the Seibert Road issue. recommendation to the Secretary of State core staff team that have been working at Please forward your concerns to the The Inspectors will also be reviewing the for Transport, Chris Grayling. So in about Robert Owen for many years. Minister, Justine Greening, and MPs plans for dealing with construction four months, we will all know what they “The opportunities for play and learning Caroline Dineage and Lucy Powell – impacts, which set out clearly the routes recommend. here are developmentally appropriate for who are both concerned with early years that lorries may use – none of them are Even then the Secretary of State for young children and as a result our children education. Matt Pennycook, our MP, has residential roads. And the Inspectors are Transport still has the power to reject or leave full of confidence, and with a strong told the WN that he is lobbying hard to questioning the effects of charging for use approve the scheme, whatever the foundation for future learning. secure the necessary funding from Govt. of the tunnel, which would particularly recommendation. And the Mayor of affect local users. London will even then have the power to The public inquiry is due to finish in halt the project. So the project’s outcome mid-April. After that, the Inspectors have will be uncertain for some time yet. The Fitzrovia Radio Hour Paul Abercrombie coming to Blackheath e are very sorry to report the death by Ofsted Inspectors”! So much the worse he Fitzrovia Radio Hour will be in The hour-long show follows, last orders on 28th December of Paul for Ofsted . . . W Blackheath on Sat. 25th March when for carriages are at 10.30pm. Tickets at Abercrombie, who lived in the area for When Paul left Eaglesfield, where he T they will perform brand new versions of £20 each are available from M Thornhill over 50 years. taught for many years, he was snapped up 1940s style radio plays to support the St on 07752 303133 – so book soon! Readers of the WN may recall a review by Bexley Grammar. Throughout his career Michael's Church restoration appeal. The Fitzrovia Radio Hour, with no hint in January 2016 of Paul’s thinly disguised he arranged school trips to France, Russia Blending comedy, homage and satire to of modesty, boasts of "original radio plays autobiographical novella, “Evening before and Africa. He was much loved by his create a heady theatrical cocktail, the cast of the 40s and 50s performed and recorded Dawn” and will know that Paul was pupils. of three will create all the sound effects with cut glass elegance in front of a studio brought up in a children's home. Paul was Paul loved his social life – on the lawn, live as you are transported into a bygone audience, with all sound-effects created exceptionally gifted and despite the normal end-of-term parties, as well as theatre age of stiff dinner jackets and even stiffer live. We refute the notion that the well- lack of aspiration for children in care at outings he organised for the regulars at the upper lips, and everything is “Rippingly crafted written word is dead. It is alive that time, went to the local Grammar British Oak pub. He was a ruthless croquet good fun.” and well and will always look its best in School. He continued his education at player – and even taught the French to play Doors open at 7.00pm in the Church a dinner jacket." A real period piece! Goldsmiths College, where he made the game. He was also a keen bridge play- Hall in Blackheath Park, SE3, and the More information can be found on life-long friends. er, playing regularly at Mycenae House. evening starts with a light supper of fish http://www.fitzroviaradio.co.uk/ Paul then began his career as a teacher, He dreamt up an amazing scheme for and chips from Vintage Fish, homemade teaching English in France. On returning celebratiung the millennium in Greenwich: desserts, and a licensed cash bar. to London he taught French at Samuel a glass maze, in which you could see Pepys and St Austin’s. He was in his late where you wanted to get to, even though Debbie’s fight for life 30s when he took his degree in French and that did not help! Russian at Queen Mary College. Paul had a zest for life, his work and his here was lots of festive fun in Without this operation, Debbie’s condition He was a brilliant teacher and enjoyed social activities. He had a great sense of TDecember when families met in will continue to deteriorate. The operation great exam results for his pupils… but he fun, had a plethora of stories, and was such Mycenae House, for a Christmas coffee cost is £60,000 and Debbie’s family and had his own methods – not always flavour good company. In the last years Paul led morning. friends are organising fundraising events to of the month. His classes once failed an quite a restricted life due to ill-health, but This event was held to raise funds for help her reach this target. Ofsted inspection, despite the fact that he his memory will live on, and many will be Debbie Rocke, a mum of three in need of a So far, fundraising events and donations had consistently achieved such good grateful to have had their lives touched by lifesaving operation that is currently have raised a fantastic £10,000 towards results with his pupils. Paul was undeterred Paul. Our deepest condolences go to unavailable in the UK. The event raised an Debbie’s target. A big event at the end of and proudly wore a badge stating “Failed Paul’s wife Avril and their son, Gavin. amazing £672 for Debbie’s Operation. February – a fun-filled family disco called Debbie and her family and friends give Honey I brought the kids added to this their thanks to all who helped out on the sum, but there’s still a long way to go. The www.mycenaehouse.co.uk day, or attended, including the staff at next event is in Mycenae House on Friday 02088581749 Mycenae House who were so helpful. April 7th – a showing of the film, Dirty Supported by Debbie is debilitated by an unstable Dancing. Free. But donations welcome... spine which is causing compression of her For more information or to donate please brain stem. This means she is currently visit http://www.youcaring.com/debbie- unable to walk unaided, suffers with rocke-692095. You can also see updates NEW! Bo-Peep Pre-School: Dtsay & Play sessions for 0-4 year olds chronic pain, and has a whole host of other by liking her Facebook page http:// symptoms that make life very difficult. www.facebook.com/debbiesfightforlife WGoednesdays & FrSee/idays 1pm - 3pm. Tel. KatGohryn 07935 37 32Do39 Tues. 14th March Northumbrian Piper Kathryn Tickell & Amy Thatcher Is education happening? 7.30Overpm £15 .01200 things to Do and See each week Learning, Concerts, Workshops, Exhibitions, Training, Education means the process by which children are led to acquire deep knowledge Fri 3rWorkouts,d March 4 -Parties 7pm. “ ,O Lectures,nce Upon a Social Time” BEvents,ook-the mChildrensed high tea - and deep insights to prepare for their adult lives: about how people tick, about music, andquiz zFamilyes +... wActivities,ww.eventb Seniors,rite.com/O Clubsnce Up oandn a TSocieties.ea Time themselves, about the history which led to where we are today, about the natural world, science, technology and the computerizing of information. Fri 10th March 7.30 for 8.00pm Jazz Nights : Kevin Street (accordion) Cramming means memorizing things superficially, and Jazz Nights Alistairs Tickets on the door £10.00 ‘This place is buzzing’ quickly – in short term memory – to pass an exam. Fri 24th March 8.00pm ICARUS Acoustic Music Club : MTimeississi pOutpi The P E R (Education Renewal Group) was founded in 1993 MacDonald & The Cottonmouth Kings + The Gillies & Zac Turner £7.50 to try to ban cramming in schools and get back to genuine education. www.mycenaehouse.co.uk 02088581749 F90ri. Mycenae 31st M Rd,ar Blackheathch Ceili dStandard,h & A SE3cou 7SEstic 400yds Nigh tot Westcombe (GFMA Parkeve Trainnt - Stationsee p aFreege Parking5) For more details contact [email protected]
Westcombe News March 2017 3 FEATURES
w ie Alarming – or Alarmist? Will Woolwich Barracks ev R lm PETER GREAVES reviews JohnPilger’s Fi remain in its historical home? film The Coming War on China As we start a new Chinese New Year – the Year of the Rooster – many observers are wondering if under President Trump the possible trade war could become even more serious . . .
peaking to a packed meeting in Davos, more interdependent on each other than SJack Ma, the Chinese billionaire and China and the US in history.” But today founder of Alibaba, chided the US for more than 400 American military bases wasting money on military harware rather encircle China with missiles, bombers, than spending it on infrastructure. But is warships and nuclear weapons. Mr Trump likely to listen? The film asks whether Trump will take Early in his film John Pilger says that its us to the brink; can we rely on his recent aim “is to break a silence”, and asks at the “cordial” phone call with the Chinese end “can we really afford to be silent?” president? The Guardian referred to Trump The silence refers to the American “recklessly baiting China” during his military build-up in the Pacific. It’s not campaign, and the day after the inaugura- making the US many friends among the tion sub-titled “Prepare for a direct clash locals: The Marshall islanders resent being with China.” We have been warned… treated as guinea-pigs for the testing of There will be a showing of this film by Practising for the Trump visit? No, it was last year: they were enjoying Armed Forces nuclear weapons, and the islanders of Blackheath & Greenwicb United Nations Day which has taken place every year at Woolwich Barracks. Okinawa (Japan) and Jeju (South Korea) Association at 7.00 pm on Tuesday ollowing the announcement that the Combined, the Great Get Together and are shown resisting the establishment of March 21st in the Old Bakehouse, Age Ministry of Defence (MoD) plans to Armed Forces Day event is set against the nuclear bases. Exchange, Blackheath Village. Fsell Woolwich Barracks, Greenwich stunning backdrop of the Royal Artillery In the film a Chinese academic says: Free. Followed by a discussion. councillors have unanimously agreed to Barracks parade ground. The annual event “There never have been two countries All welcome. Enquiries 8858 8489 lobby the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to is a regular favourite of local residents, and keep the historic barracks at its home in features a very wide range of attractions the heart of the borough. which include an army assault course for The Grade II listed barracks have been children, and other spectacular displays. Return of the used by the Royal Artillery since the Local MP Matt Pennycook has added American War of Independence in 1776, his voice to the issue. He questioned the finally pulling out in 2007. The barracks wisdom of selling the barracks, telling Steinberg Duo have been a core part of the Council’s fellow MPs that a base in Woolwich could community links with the Armed Forces. accommodate troops in the event of a n the 6th March in 1917 two soldiers The Kings Troop Royal Horse artillery terrorist attack. In a debate on December Otook to the stage in uniform at with its 11l horses are now based in 20th he secured a commitment from the Aeolian Hall in London to perform works Woolwich, and regularly exercise their Defence Minister to look again in the New by Brahms, Beethoven and Ireland to a horses around the borough.. Year at the Government’s decision to close war-weary audience. It was this concert Cllr Denise Hyland, the Leader of the the barracks. in 1917 that launched John Ireland’s Council, said: “The barracks have a long The MoD said the sale formed part of career overnight, and led to fame and and respected connection with our borough their Better Defence Estate Strategy. fortune for the young composer. Fighting for votes and we value their continued presence There have been reports that the military To celebrate the centenary of this here. I was proud to be part of a motion have been experienceing some budgetary extraordinary event, and the release of for women that crossed the political divide and we difficulties, partly as a result of the pur- their latest recording on the Lyrita label, the Steinberg Duo presents a rreprise of stood united in our mission to lobby to chase of American equipment becoming an rom the 1860s women campaigned to that concert, exactly one hundred years keep the Army in Woolwich at the heart of unforseen extra expense after the pound’s get the vote – and finally succeeded later. The Steinberg Duo’s one-night F our community.” devaluation of the pound. The barracks is in 1928. Was this due to Mrs Pankhurst only concert will be at Blackheath Leader of the Opposition Cllr Matt one of dozens of sites being sold off. and the suffragettes? Concert Halls on 6th March 2017. Hartley, said: "I am pleased councillors Visit the new permanent exhibition telling In the words of Shirley Williams, the Readers of the WN may recall that from both parties supported the motion.” the fascinating 300-year history of the suffragettes got the publicity (often the Steinberg Duo – husband and wife Each year, the barracks plays host to Royal Artillery and its association with negative...) – but it was the suffragists artists Nick Burns and Louisa Stonehill – one of the UK's largest Armed Forces Day Woolwich, at the Greenwich Heritage led by Millicent Fawcett, who got things are a violin and and piano duo who used events to be held, organised by the Royal Centre, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, done – and got the vote. Jane Grant, to give monthly recitals in their studio on Borough, attended by over 20,000 people. London SE18 6ST author of In the Steps of Exceptional Vanbrugh Hill before moving to the US Women, a History of the Fawcett Society, last year. So this is our chance to hear talks about the campaign, and its them again! aftermath, at the Old Bakehouse, Age See page 5 for details. Paws for thought! Exchange on March 14th at 7.30pm.
aws and Padlocks is a new children's Popera commissioned by Blackheath Halls in celebration of 5 years of the children's opera programme With a score by the award-winning composer Kate Whitley (co-founder of the Multi-Story Orchestra) and libretto by Sabrina Mahfouz. The Multi-Story Orchestra will be accompanying the performances under the musical director of their co-founder Christopher Stark. The opera will be the usual brilliant mix of professional singers and local talent, including, of course, children.
What’s it about? George and Georgina are accidentally Paws and Padlocks will be a very special locked in a zoo for the night. Whilst event and offers entertainment for all. there they discover talking beasts, and Sat. 8th/Sun 9th April 2.00pm & dastardly plans are afoot... 6.00pm Tickets from Box Office With a story perfect for families and Tel. 8463 0100: £11 | £6 under 12s the usual high quality performances, Suitable for ages 6+
4 Westcombe News March 2017 WHAT’S ON
ARTS THE WESTCOMBE SOCIETY !"#$#%&$ BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS Events in Mycenae House: SOCIETY, St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath www.artsinblackheath.org Sat 18th March 2- 4.00pm Daffodil Tea All meetings are on the 4th Thursday of each month- Sat 1st April 7.30 for 8.00pm Spring Quiz except August and December- 2pm for 2.30pm Sat 15th April 2.00 - 4.00pm (In garden) Wednesday 15th March 2.30pm Barbara Peacock: The Great Country Houses of Bohemia and Easter Egg Hunt Moravia Non-members may pay on the door MAY AGM Date TBC Pl. send Marilyn GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS Proposals for Charity of the Year SOCIETY King William Court, University of Sat 10th June 7.30 Members’ Evening Printing in Blackheath Greenwich Mon. 13th March: Mars and the Sat in July Summer Picnic – TBC Muses - the Renaissance Art of Armour Dr Tobias since 1978 Fri. 20th Sept. 10.00am - 2.00pm Macmillan Capwell Curator at the Wallace Collection, AND a Coffee Morning From your ideas or Artwork Jouster! Visitors may pay on the door Sat 21st Oct. 2- 4.00pm Chrysanthemum Tea we can print at a BLACKHEATH HALLS Free Art Exhibition in reasonable cost: the cafe bar by Nathalie Hesseltine Wed 1st Fri 3rd Nov. 7.30 for 8.00pm Spring Quiz 1940s1940s SSTYLET YLE RRADIOADIO PLPLAYSAYS RE-IMARE-IMAGINEDGINED March - Thurs 13th April Oops There Goes… The Westcombe Society really needs more • Business cards This is a celebration of some of our planet’s most volunteers to help out at these events. • Invoices • Letterheads SATURDAYATURDAY 25TH25TH MMARCHARCH 77.00–10.30PM.00–10.30PM incredible, and sadly endangered animals. If you are interested, please ring Joanne • Books • Brochures ST.MICHAEL’S,T.MICHAEL’S, BBLACKHEATHLACKHEATH PPARKARK SE3SE3 • Forms • Invites on 07709 571777. • Wedding StationAry CHILDREN & FAMILY '()*+,-./01)2304053)62()*+,-./01)2304053)62 =)9)+.:0+)>@.+20ABC0=)9)+.:0+)>@.+20ABC0 0789.9,:.0;.2.<+2789.9,:.0;.2.<+2 5,DD0EF0&38<*3)DD,DD0EF0&38<*3)DD BLACKHEATH HALLS 23, Lee Rd. Blackheath COMMUNITY 1a Lizban St =)>.*2.:05,230?,< CGGHB0ICIJII SE3 9RQ 0208 463 0100 www.trinitylaban.ac.uk Blackheath, London SE3 8SS Sat 11th March 12.00 pm & 3.00 pm RAPUNZEL FRIENDS OF MYCENAE GARDENS Tel: 020 8853 2268 AND THE TOWER OF DOOM by THEATRE Annual General meeting: The Friends of Mycenae KDD0LM*:20<,)2.:0)*0,):08LDD0LM*:20<,)2.:0)*0,):08L Email: [email protected] OF WIDDERSHINS Ages 4+ Tickets: £8.50 Gardens will be having their 2017 AGM at 7.00pm on Sat. 1st April 1.00pm & 3.00pm Ripstrop Theatre Wednesday 22nd March in the Steiner School. www.trojanpress.com presents A REAL ALIEN ADVENTURE Why do BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH WOMEN’S THEATRE aliens want to steal all the earth’s fluffy things? INSTITUTE Meets first Wednesday of every month, £8.50 Ages 3+ doors open at 7.00pm for 7.30pm at Sunfields THE GREENWICH THEATRE, Crooms Hill, Sat 28th April 1pm & 3pm PIED PIPER Norwich Methodist Church on Old Dover Road GREENWICH UNION PUB (MEANTIME) London SE10 8ES Box Office: 8858 7755 Puppet Theatre £8.50 Ages 3+ greenwichtheatre.org.uk R. G.Austin READING GROUP New local reading group- start- GREENWICH THEATRE CROOMS HILL (Established 1963 ing – first Wed. of each month. Read –Discuss–Share Until Sun 12th March: the Gothic Rock Musical London SE10 8ES 8858 7755 LIZZIE, the story of Lizzie Borden who took an axe, food) at members homes. Contact: Barbara Ward Heating Engineers, Fri 14th-Mon 18th April 11.00 am, 1.pm & 3pm and gave her mother forty whacks . . . Times as [email protected] 07960 107578 Free Property Maintenance, CHESTER TUFFNUT The tree-mole returns! advertised Tickets £25.00 Concs. £21.00 BLACKHEATH BRIDGE CLUB duplicate sessions GAS Tickets £11.00, Children £8.50 Ages: 2-5 yrs Wed 15th - Sat 18th March RAFFLES mystery Electrics, Painting, in Mycenae House Mon & Thurs 7.15pm and on Wed SAFE SHERINGTON CHILDREN’S CENTRE, Tel. 0208 adventure based on the thriller by E W Hornung at 1.15pm. Tel. Ron 0208 319 1312 Decorating, Plumbing, – 3053140 - 14, Sherington Road SE7 7JW Eves. 7.30, Sat Mat. 2.30 pm £16.00 concs. £13.50 DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATION OF BEXLEY, Central Heating, DAD’S STAY AND PLAY session every Wednesday, Sun 19th March 7.30 pm GALA MUSIC HALL 1.00pm -2.30pm –free drop in Sherington Children’s BROMLEY GREENWICH & LEWISHAM Info: 07762265827 Help Line: 0300 999 1800 celebrating the 80th birthday of our Celia – Shower and Bathroom Specialists Centre, all home dads welcome Each 2nd Saturday of CELIA MORETON-PRITCHARD the month – 10,00am -11.30am – free brunch/arts and Thurs 20th April 7.45pm Talks on Handwriting, 2A Hassendean Rd, Blackheath SE3 8TS and Revision Tips and Techniques. At St Nicholas Tickets £18.50 | Concs. £16.00 Proceeds go to craft Contact [email protected] for Greenwich Theatre’s improvement programme Telephone: 0208 858 7359 more details, www.selondondads.org.uk Church Hall (Village Hall) Church Lane, Chislehurst [email protected] ! Kent BR7 5PE Adult Dyslexia Group: First Wed 22nd - Sat 25th March 7.00pm St Dunstan’s school present PARADE, the US’s “Dreyfus” affair . . SPOKEN WORD Wednesday of each month at 7.30 pm Community . £16.00 | Concs. £11.00 House, South Street, Bromley BR1 1RH BLACKHEATH HALLS 23, Lee Rd. Blackheath Sun. 2nd April 7.30 pm Fascinating Aida’s AGE EXCHANGE CHARLTON HOUSE www.charltonhouse SE3 9RQ Box Office: 0208 463 0100 DILLIE KEANE Lots of fun, gales of laughter, 0208 -856 -3001 Mulberry Tea Rooms www.trinitylaban.ac.uk Dillie is accompanied by MICHAEL ROULSTON 11, Blackheath Village, London SE3 9L Jacobean Entrance Hall Mon-Fri 9am- 4pm WED. 1st March 8.00 pm Boris Rumney: THE Tickets £21.00 | £18.50 concs. Tel :0208 318 9105 www.age-exchange.org Lunchtime concert every Friday 1.00pm – 2.00pm SPLITS; RECITAL ROOM A memoir and honest Library Opening Hours BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH UNITED MUSIC account of a difficult life £10.00 The community library will be opening until 7pm on NATIONS ASSOCIATION: Tues. 21st March Will INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesdays. Special thanks to volunteer Kathleen Ewen be showing The Coming War with China, John BLACKHEATH HALLS 23, Lee Road SE3 9RQ greenwichindustrialhistory.blogspot.co.uk for helping us with this new initiative. Pilger’s alarming (alarmist?) film. The Trump effect... 0208 463 0100 www.trinitylaban.ac.uk Tues. 14th March 7.30 pm Jane Grant talks on In Feel Better with a Book Meeting at the Old Bakehouse, Age Exchange, CLASSICAL: the Steps of Exceptional Women: a History of the Starting on Wednesday 3rd March is our Reader Bennett Park, Blackheath starts at 7.00 pm as the Sun. 5th March 11.00 am Recital Room the TRIO Fawcett Society. Meeting at The Old Bakehouse, Group facilitated by volunteers with the Reader film is long, and time is needed for discussion. Free. ISIMSIZ play Haydn, Schumann & Beethoven Age Exchange, Bennett Park. Organisation. Join Penny and Heidi as they share texts All welcome. Tickets £14 | £12.00 concs. BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY (poems, short stories) in a supportive and inclusive WESTCOMBE WOODLANDS next volunteer Sat 18th March 7.00pm JUNIOR TRINITY Friday lectures at 7.45pm Mycenae House. setting. Participants are invited to read aloud and day: Saturday 4th March 10.00 am - 1.00 pm. SPRING CONCERT Concerto performances by Visitors welcome - donations £3 to the society. share responses to the writing over a cup of tea or cof- final-year students. In Great Hall. Free but ticketed. IN-WORDS fee. Held in The Studio from 3.15pm to 4.45pm, the Advance booking essential West Greenwich Library, 146 Greenwich High sessions are free with a small charge for refreshments. March 6th. The Steinberg Duo play Beethoven, Road SE10, in association with in-words.co.uk Brahms, Bush and Ireland £14 ( £12.00 concs.) March 7th, 7,00 for 7.30pm poetry reading by four Thurs. 30th March 7.30pm Trinity Laban Wind published poets - James Flynn, Michael Loveday, Orchestra play Skrowaczewski, Roxburgh & Mel Pryor and Frances Spurrier. Huffington Post Christopher Marshall FREE but ticketed. named Mel as one of “five poets to watch in 2017.” LUNCHTIME RECITALS: 1.10 Recital Room. Frances Spurrier’s The Pilgrim’s Trail won the Mon 13th March, and Monday 3rd April. Cinammon Press award in 2014. MAINSTREAM March 28th, 7 for 7.30: Anjana Chowdhury will Sat 4th March Blackheath does Broadway with read from her debut novel "Under the Pipal Tree" GUYS & DOLLS a concert performance by local (Cinnamon Press, 2016). Both these events are free community groups. Great Hall. Tickets: but donations for refreshments welcome. !! £14| £12 (concs)|£8 (students)| £6 (under 12s) Visit Irena Hill's website in-words.co.uk for details Tues. 7th March, Wed 8th, Wed 15th, Tues 21st, of these and other upcoming events. Tues 28th, Wed 29th 7.30pm BEATS IN THE BAR with students & guest artists FREE, GLOBAL FUSION MUSIC & ARTS FOLK MUSIC AT THE HALLS Globalfusionarts.co.uk Tel 0208 858 9497 Sat 11th March 8.00pm The Demon Barbers - Disco at the Tavern Winners of ‘Best Live Act’ at Fri. 31st March CEILIDH & ACOUSTIC BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. £18 | £16 concs. NIGHT Hosted by Morrigan with Guest Sun 26th MAR 8.00pm Emily Portman & The Learning is fun artists - Scoldis Bridie Coracle Band TICKETS: £18 | £16 concs. £5.00 wegottickets or £5.00 on the door St Olave’s is a Prep School in TRINITY LABAN - FREE CONCERTS Free workshops Fortnightly Tuesday and Friday New Eltham for boys and girls community workshops 7.30-8.30pm at Mascalls Diana Cummings & Irina Lyakhovskaya play aged 3-11 years Meeting Room off Victoria Way, Charlton SE7 7TT The Complete Beethoven Sonatas 1.05 pm Tai Chi, Singing, drumming, Writer’s Group, Every Wednesday 1st - 22nd MARCH ! Broad, child-centred curriculum African Dance Info 0208 858 9497 in the Peacock Room King Charles Court ! Excellent results in the 11+ selection MYCENAE HOUSE LIVE EVENTS: MARCH 2017 ! Clubs, outings and residential Grant Saw Wealth Management Limited trips Fri 3rd March 4-7pm - Once Upon a Tea Time. A fundraising 'Classic Book' ! Excellent pastoral care themed High-Tea. £19.50. ! Small classes Fri 10th March 8pm - JazzNights. Candlit Live Jazz music event hosted by INDEPENDENT PERSONAL and ! Specialist staff for PE, IT, Music, CORPORATE FINANCIAL ADVISERS Dave Silk featuring JazzNights Allstars plus guests . £10. Sat 11th March 3pm - Pop! A Magical comedy show for 3-8 year olds & their French and Drama Investments - Pensions - Estate Planning families. £9. ! Sibling fee reduction Tues 14th March 8pm - Kathryn Tickell. World's foremost exponent of the ! Before and after school care 2 Charlton Road. Blackheath Standard Northumbrian Pipes. £15. London SE3 7EX (T) 020 3417 9760 Sat 18th March 8pm - Shkembe Soup. A fundraising evening of dance for Te l : 020 8294 8930 email: [email protected] Greenwich Mencap. £10. www.stolaves.org.uk Fri 24th M website: www.gswealth.co.uk. arch 7.30pm - Icarus Club. An evening of acoustic live music performed by high quality, original songwriters . £7.50. HELPING YOU PLAN YOUR FUTURE Fri 31st March 7.30pm Global Fusion: Monthly ceilidh & acoustic night. £8. Grant Saw Wealth Management Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority For further information about all Mycenae House events visit www.mycenae- house.co.uk Westcombe News March 2017 5 FEATURES The British inventor who sank Unravelling DNA Machines,
13 Allied Vessels Malcolm Hardy Robert one Molecule Whitehead aritime Greenwich would seem Hungarian Navy officer: familiar to us at a time . . . Mto have allowed the 150th from the film The Sound of Music. His anniversary of one of the most numerous decorations included the Order n February, the Blackheath Scientific momentous developments in naval of Maria Theresa. ISociety welcomed Dr Daniel Burnham warfare to slip by unnoticed – though However, in this era of fake news it is Marie Sklodowska-Curie Postdoctoral admittedly, it did not take place in worth noting that he was not an Austrian Fellow at the Francis Crick Institute in Greenwich or even Britain. aristocract (as in the film) but was born in London, to talk on his research on DNA In 1866 the Lancashire-born Zadar,now a coastal town in Croatia, but and the role of nano-technology. inventor and industrialist, Robert at the time part of the Austro-Hungarian Dr. Daniel Burnham is working at the Whitehead, produced the first Empire. In 1920, Zadar became part of interface of biology and physics to build effective naval torpedo. Italy, and Georg was therefore technically novel, bespoke microscopes and develop It was constructed in his factory in an Italian citizen, along with his wife and new biological assays to address funda- Rijeka (Fiume in Italian), Croatia, children. mental questions of how nanoscopic then part of the Austro-Hungarian After the death of Agatha from scarlet machines copy DNA when cells divide. Empire, which was the first power to fever, the family moved to Austria where He described how his interdisciplinary accept his invention. By 1870, his Georg subsequently married the children’s field of science is at the cutting edge of torpedoes could travel at 6 knots tutor (aka Julie Andrews!). Badly affected research and knowledge at "The Crick" (11km/h); ten years later, he was sell- by the depression, they turned their hobby, into how the human body works and how ing torpedoes to ten other countries. music, into a profession. this research will provide the framework Eventually he set up a British Later, unwilling to become part of the for future anti-cancer therapeutics. torpedo factory at Portland in 1890. Nazi war-machine, he and the family went Our bodies are made of trillions of Meanwhile, the British licensed his by train to Italy, from where they travelled cells, each containing the instructions for technology for their own torpedo to the US in pursuit of a musical career. life, DNA. The genetic information in made in the Arsenal at Woolwich Another grand-daughter of Whitehead’s DNA consists of 6 billion nucleobases, from 1872, supplementing this married into the Bismark family. like letters in a book, wound together as a production with purchases of 2 metre long double helix. This fits inside Whitehead torpedoes produced in cells 250 times smaller than a pinhead and Rijeka. The Rijeka "Torpedo" factory has 70,000 letters copied every second! went bankrupt in the 1920s, but was A German U-boat The nucleobase letters of DNA are again producing torpedoes for Italy in the arranged like the zip on a coat: every time an ambitious Rijeka-trained officer in the Second World War. a cell is copied so are all these letters - Austrian Navy who commanded the By 1943, it was producing 160 torpedoes without mistakes! Austrian submarine squadron in the First a month – no wonder it became a target We know that a zipper, or molecular World War – so successfully that a special for allied bombers. The factory in Rijeka machine, unzips the DNA, but we have no medal was struck to commemorate his continued to supply the Yugoslav armed idea how it works. This is Dr Burnham’s exploits. Under his command, the forces for some 20 years after the war. current research project: How does the submarines SM U-5 and SM U-14 sank zipper work? The problem is that the thirteen Allied ships. A curious footnote zipper is 10,000 times smaller than the !! His name? Corvette Captain Georg A curious footnote to the Whitehead story width of a human hair . . . Johannes Ritter von Trapp, an Austro- is! that his grand-daughter Agatha married This report is adapted from the Blackheath Scientific Society’s website www.bss.btck.co.uk. The Society has hosted lectures accessible to the lay-per- son for over 150 years. Viisitors are wel- ABOVE: Georg von Trapp and Agatha come, and are asked to contribute £3.00 The Maritime Museum of Rijeka towards the cost. Contact details of the commemorated Whitehead's invention Society are available on its website. with a special exhibition Anita’s Cleaning
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! 6 Westcombe News March 2017 Planning applications can be viewed in the library, or at the Woolwich Library on the lower ground floor of the Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington St. They ENVIRONMENT may also be viewed on www. green- wich.gov.uk/planning ‘It gets worse every year...’ Canker in the Park MARY MILLS on the problems of hill-dwellers Neville Grant It gets worse every year” said an elderly new station, etc , etc – don’t take into reader asked the WN about two Fact file: “neighbour to me when I moved to account the access problems of people who Achestnut trees recently felled near the Humber Road fifty years ago. She was live ‘up the hill’ and who need to use them Maze Hill entrance to Greenwich Park. A In the early 1660's, King Charles II commissioned Le Notre (gardener to talking about Vanbrugh Hill – and yes, it too. spokesman for Greenwich Park told the Louis XIV) to design the formal French- does get worse and for many people the We don’t have a direct bus which goes WN that the trees had to be felled struggle to get up it is impossible. to North Greenwich and it's a bit too far to style layout of the Park, much of which because they were dangerous: they were remains today with its impressive This does not just affect the disabled, walk. At other stations there are proper ‘riddled with canker” caused by an elderly and those with small children; there facilities for local people to pick up and avenues of sweet (Spanish) chestnut. ascomycete fungus. Many of these trees remain as 'veterans' are many people with a whole range of drop off passengers with luggage, or what- Until recently, there have been only conditions which make climbing steep hills ever – but not for us at North Greenwich. more than 400 years old. isolated outbreaks of the disease in Ancient trees, such as the sweet a bad idea – or impossible. Many of the new – and old - facilities on England. The disease was first spotted in chestnuts and the many other mature In our area the hillside up from the river the Peninsula are awkward for us to access Warwicksire in 2011, and isolated and veteran tree species to be found in stretches from Greenwich proper, right – and we are increasingly missing out. outbreaks have occurred in seven other the Park, are of tremendous value to along to Plumstead. Very few of those Planners need to factor the steepness locations, including East Sussex and wildlife. The complex structure of the hills have adequate bus services – in our of hills into their plans – and it isn’t just Devon. In 2016, the disease was trees includes cavities, splits, rot holes immediate area Westcombe Hill is well about transport. As a local councillor I confirmed again near Maidstone, Kent in and bark flaps - all of which provide served – but Maze Hill has no public used to argue that light pollution from new a single sweet chestnut tree which had valuable habitats for fungi, many kinds transport, and Vanbrugh Hill has – oh dear, peninsula facilities didn’t affect those who been planted in 2009. of specialised insects and other oh dear - the very inadequate 386. were consulted in the surrounding areas The owner noticed symptoms and invertebrates, as well as vital roosting One major concern now is that traffic on the same level. People ‘up the hill’ reported it to the Forestry Commission sites for bats and nesting sites for birds along Trafalgar and Woolwich Roads has weren’t asked although those bright lights with Tree Alert. The tree was destroyed led to plans for increased parking controls. shone right in their windows. with the owner's co-operation, and in line both in mainland Europe and the UK for Consultation rules mean that people north As far as the planners were concerned with the normal precautionay procedure, a the timber and nut markets, so in addition of the railway line are being asked – the consultation rules are about distance, survey was conducted of sweet chestnut to environmental and biodiversity impacts, although Trafalgar Road shops and the not gradient. So– we need to get gradients and oak trees within 5km (3.2 miles). the disease can have an economic impact. Greenwich centre serve a population up on to the agenda when plans are being Fortunately no further cases were found in The disease poses no threat to people, Vanbrugh and Maze Hills. made, and see that they get factored in to the area. pets or livestock, and it does not affect Plans for new transport facilities on the the changes being made in our local According to the website of the Forestry horse chestnut (conker) tree. However, Peninsula - bus routes, roads, a planned environment. Commission, Sweet chestnut blight is a sadly, more trees are likely to be infected, plant disease caused by the ascomycete and therefore felled, in Greenwich Park, fungus Cryphonectria parasitica. For years although the park authorities are hoping Green light for Greenwich this pathogen has caused severe epidemics that losses can be minimised n December, Greenwich Council got the Regeneration and Sustainability, Councillor that have destroyed sweet chestnut trees in The Forestry Commission is asking local Igo-ahead for “The Greener Greenwich Danny Thorpe said: “Climate change and air North America: during the first half of the people, especially tree professionals, to Strategy” which outlines the actions planned pollution present a significant challenge. 20th century, it killed some 3.5 billion help by checking their sweet chestnut trees to tackle climate change and air pollution “I am delighted that the Royal Borough trees after it was accidentally introduced everywhere, whether they are in gardens, across the Borough. has just been awarded ‘Cleaner Air Borough there from Asia. woodlands, hedgerows or elsewhere, for This follows a series of consultations the Status’ from the Greater London Authority It was first identified in Europe (in signs of the disease. Royal Borough ran earlier in the year, on its (GLA) for the wide range of measures we Italy) in 1938. Although losses have not Any suspected symptoms must be Greener Greenwich Strategy and the Royal have adopted in improving air quality. been on the same scale, it has spread reported, preferably with the Forestry Borough’s Air Quality Action Plan, both of “We will continue to lobby for lower pol- steadily throughout much of the continent. Commission’s Tree Alert disease reporting which were launched last summer. Some luting hybrid buses, multi-modal river cross- Sweet chestnuts are grown commercially tool: https://treealert.forestry.gov.uk of the key initiatives included are: ings and an Ultra-Low Emissions Zone • Expanding solar panel installation on (ULEZ) as well as a range of other measures Council-owned properties. in the Borough.” • Exploring technologies such as battery For more information go to: www.royal The new gold: Grass storage to improve energy security. greenwich.gov.uk/greenergreenwichstrategy • Exploring the development of district heat es, not gold: GRASS. A new report It’s not too late, because fracking hasn’t networks to supply locally produced lower Yshows that Britain can get almost all started yet. But Britain needs a proper emission energy to residents; including the Parking in Old Dover Rd of its gas from a very simple source – review of where Britain gets its gas from – investigation of a water source heat pump in grass. So a new outfit in Gloucestershire, we can either frack the countryside or we the River Thames to supply council homes. raders in Old Dover Road are pressing Ecotricity , is calling on the government to can grow the grass. It’s that simple. • Trialling smarter lower emission transport Tfor an early solution to this problem rethink where Britain gets its Ecotricity recently got solutions such as e-bikes, electric vehicle car Traders complain the problem has been gas. consent for its first Green Gas clubs and e-charging points through the EU Dale Vince going on for years. Newsagents who start Quite incredibly, researchers Mill. All that is needed now is funded Horizon2020 programme and the work at 5.00 am report that there is no have found there is enough suitable land to for the government to get behind this Low Emission Neighbourhood scheme. room to park anywhere in the road at that Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for produce enough green gas each year to simple, abundant and benign energy time. One van has not been moved for power 97% of the homes in Britain. And it source. days on end. c a n b e d one without affecting food There’s lots more information on our Susan Clark Interiors “Parking controls would make a p roduction – in fact, it would be boosting website about what we’re doing, including huge difference to the viability of it (via crop breaking), and at the same time the full report and detail on how our businesses in Old Dover Road,” creating new wildlife habitats. Green Gas Mills will work. said one Trader. Not to mention the £7.5billion boost to Visit ecotricity.co.uk “How much longer do we have the economy and 150k new jobs in a new Dale Vince is the founder of Ecotricity to wait?” and sustainable industry – and making Group Limited, Lion House, Rowcroft, fracking a redundant concept. Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 3BY PLANNING APPLICATION
iors Inter (See http//www.westcombesociety.org Clark Susan 105A HUMBER ROAD ref 17/0326/F HAVE YOU MADE Replace single glazed sash windows with double glazed sash windows YOUR WILL? A & A LANDSCAPES PETER BOWYER Landscape Specialists PROFESSIONAL WILL WRITING SERVICES 113 Humber Rd London SE3 7LW Member of The Society of Will Writers and Free advice & Qualified The Institute of Professional Will Writers Construction to complete renovation estimates horticulturalist Project Management • Interior Design Single/Double Wills All aspects of soft & hard landscaping Upholstery • Joinery • Lighting work carried out including Lasting Powers of Attorney Curtains • Blinds • Paint * Maintenance *Site clearance Home Visits Antique Furniture • Gifts • Cards * Turfing * Tree surgery [email protected] * Fencing * Patios Freephone 0800 389 7387 www.susanclarkinteriors.com * Brickwork Visit: www.londonwills.com 0208 305 2299 Tel. 020 8318 2530 Westcombe News March 2017 7 Please send ads for the Market Place with pay- ment by the 10th day of the preceding month to: Marilyn Little, 163, Westcombe Hill, SE3 7DP 8853 1312 [email protected] ALL classified adverts 30p per word. Please make cheques MARKET PLACE payable to The Westcombe Society
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Groups and schools welcome, www.shendafalveypersonaltraining.com Phil McNamara 8857 5480, mobile 07814 360862 plus Boot Camps. Master 35 years teaching; High standard Booking: Telephone 07952 503660; or 0208 3034362 HAVE YOU GOT THE SKILLS – MULVIHILL ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE OR TIME – FOR DIY? Adult and Child Irish Dance Classes available in the Blackheath area. Come along for a Or is it all just such an effort! fun-all-in-one workout. For more information If that’s your problem, I can solve it ! call Rachel on 07707 100521 NEED HELP WITH YOUR COMPUTER? * Decorating including preparation, wall- papering, Local technician provideshome technical painting, & special finishes. support & tuition. No job too small, all in your * Re- hanging doors and putting up shelving. own home. Ring Glenn: 8473 4091 * Re-laying floors-lino, wood laminates and ceramics. FOR SALE * Domestic Electrical work. * Plumbing - taps, showers,radiators and external. CLASSICAL MUSIC CD * Garden revival and maintenance BOXED SETS FOR SALE. HE OINTER CHOOL Immaculate condition; T P S Need help with any of these? including:Deutsche Please call Grammophon, Decca Tony: 0208 856 9398 M: 07961 540836 Classics & Phillips. http://www.tonysdiy.com/ Individually priced and cheaper than Amazon. Contact: SEClassicalmusic@ Childcare for ages 3 months – 5 years yahoo.com An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 3 to 11 years BLACKHEATH CHOIR AND I can see a VANBURGH ENSEMBLE
perform Handel’s SEMELE on Sun. great nursery 2nd April at 7.30pm at St Margaret’s Church, Brandram Rd, Lee £12 in from here advance – Tel 07921 295430; email:[email protected] If you’re looking for a nursery that will help your child to grow and develop – £16 on the door choose Zoom Nurseries. www.blackheathchoir.org.uk At Zoom every child enjoys an individual Learning Journey. A record that tracks their daily progress through our fantastic fun-filled learning environment. It’s just one of the tools we use to keep our parents up-to-date with their child’s achievements, as well as their personal, social and emotional development. SPECTRUM It’s an important tool, one that helps us ensure that when they leave Zoom to Painters & Decorators start school, they leave as independent learners and thinkers, ready for the Interior/Exterior “We believe that, with love, guidance, encouragement, discipline and challenges ahead. No job too Small hard work, every child can do so much more than he or she may consider With five nurseries in Eltham, Hither Green, Blackheath and Brockley that Clean and Reliable possible.” Mr RJS Higgins Headmaster between them have four Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ judgements, and places available, Free Estimates Nursery - Year 1 Year 2 - 6 you don’t have to go far to give your child a great start. 30 Years Experience 37 Shooters Hill Road SE3 7HS 19 Stratheden Road SE3 7TH To find out more and arrange an informal visit please Tel: 020 8858 7977 Tel: 020 8293 1331 [email protected] [email protected] call Ann Briley, Assistant Childcare Director on Telephone: 07816 413718 or [email protected] 020 8853 2759 or 0795 0815412 www.pointers-school.co.uk
Or visit our website for more details www.zoomnurseries.com LEARNING FOR LIFE