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Free Feb 2021, No. 71 WALTHAM Email [email protected] Facebook /WalthamForestEcho Instagram @walthamforestecho Tweet @WFEcho FOREST ECHO Visit walthamforestecho.co.uk News Comment News Arts & Culture News Secret Cinema’s summer Age UK Waltham The Antelope pub Why you don’t need to Toy Library petition plans for Low Hall Sports Forest on the pandemic’s owner ordered to be an artist to create for takes off, Town Hall Ground approved invisible elderly reverse flat conversion the E17 Art Trail development plans P . 3 P . 6 P . 6 P . 13 P . 15
In 2015, he joined Essex first Test in Galle, Sri Lanka on Credit Essex County Cricket Club County Cricket Club, where he 14th January. debuted against Kent at age 17. Day one was a record-breaker. In 2016, he scored a century in He became the first England his second match, became the player to go beyond fifty in third-youngest player to do so in their first Test innings, since a County Championship. Ben Foakes made a hundred in Essex told the Echo he was late 2018. Lawrence may have instrumental in them winning dropped a catch, but he didn’t Division Two, Division One let that unnerve him or affect twice and the T20 Blast. his batting. “The confidence in my own game is quite a big strength of mine”
The club’s head coach, Anthony Day two saw him score 73 McGrath, said of the star player: before being caught at short leg, “He’s very unorthodox. He ending the day with the Daily hits the ball in unusual areas. Mail praising him as “born to He’s someone who looks to score entertain.” Long story short: and excite. he kept hitting headlines. And “He has got a little bit of an by day five, Lawrence had well unusual technique, but he’s and truly lived up to the hype. working on his offside game. England enjoyed a seven-wicket Very confident, and I think he’s victory over Sri Lanka in the first one of them players [where] you Test – England’s fourth overseas want to watch him. He’ll do Test win in a row. something you’re not expecting.” England won the second Test, Indeed, Lawrence himself felt too – and we suspect we’ll be ready to make his debut, tell- celebrating more of Lawrence’s Chingford cricket star ing The Guardian prior to the success for years to come. match: “I feel really confident in my new technique. I really The Echo is free for everyone. As a do believe I can be successful, not-for-profit, we need your support to stay that way. If you would like to shines in Sri Lanka it’s just a matter of getting out support our publisher WFWellComm there and doing it. with a one-off donation scan this QR code with your PayPal app: Leytonstone-born Dan Lawrence, 23, wowed the “Hopefully, if I do get the nod I stay true to myself, go out there world of cricket with a cool first Test for England and really express myself and not sit in a hole or let the situ- by Elizabeth Atkin showed heading into his debut Lawrence was born in Whipps ation get too much for me. The nyone paying attention for England vs Sri Lanka. Cross Hospital, Leytonstone confidence in my own game is to cricket right now “England’s new radical,” said (like, many have noted, legend- quite a big strength of mine.” knows the name of The Independent. “Wonder- ary footballer David Beckham). Staying true to himself, he batsman Dan Lawrence. kid,” wrote The Telegraph. “A He first played at Chingford did. Lawrence quickly garnered AThe 23-year-old Waltham unusual, inventive batsman,” Cricket Club, where his father admiration from fans, sports Forest native first won praise echoed the national selector, was a groundsman, and where writers and fellow cricketers from pundits for the promise he Ed Smith. he still plays today. alike as he stepped up for his 2 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO NEWS
Waltham Forest Tributes for Walthamstow food bank users FELLOWSHIP IS LIFE double, continue FEBRUARY 2021 GP lost to Covid-19 to rise No. 71 Several local food banks, Waltham Forest Echo is Dr Augustine Obaro died suddenly on New including the Rukhsana the borough's free community newspaper. We publish monthly Year’s Day, after contracting coronavirus Khan Foundation and Eat and distribute 10,000 free Or Heat, share worrying copies of each issue – and we ong-standing local GP also revealed that he carried posted: “My Dad, Dr Augustine will continue to do so during the Dr Augustine Obaro out considerable charity work, Obaro died today from Covid. He stats with the Echo ongoing public health crisis has died of Covid-19, returning to Nigeria each year was a great husband to my mum. the practice where he to improve local healthcare in A wonderful father of four and by Elizabeth Atkin Publisher Lworked for 17 years announced his village. His support of Afri- the most giving person I know. he Rukhsana Khan David Floyd last month. can doctors in the UK – and his “I implore everyone out there Foundation has Editor Dr Obaro, who joined Addi- generous spirit – earned him don’t let another day pass with- revealed that it is Elizabeth Atkin son Road Medical Practice on the nickname “King”, the state- out letting your love ones know now supporting over Ravenswood Road, Waltham- ment continued. how much they mean to you.” T12,000 people in the borough Designer stow in 2004, died after a short “Dr Augustine Obaro will be Former patients were quick to with its food bank services, Jonathan Duncan illness on New Year’s Day. sadly missed by patients and pay tribute, hailing Dr Obaro more than double the 5,100 it Head of Advertising A statement on the surgery’s staff at Addison Road Medical as “special”, “charismatic” supported pre-pandemic. Klaudia Kiss website read on Monday, 4th Practice, colleagues, acquain- and “wonderful”. Over 6,500 people are also January: “It is with great sad- tances and family throughout A woman known as Dori J being supported by its ready- Head of Operations ness that we report the on Twitter wrote: “Dr made meal service, which began Paige Ballmi sudden death of Dr Obaro was so special. during the pandemic and now Augustine Obaro from He was my family’s produces over 1,000 meals for Engagement Manager Covid-19 on 1st Janu- GP. The community families per week. Penny Dampier ary 2021” – though the of Walthamstow is Rukhsana Khan Foundation – Contributors reference to Covid was stunned and devastated which was Walthamstow’s first Victoria Munro, Sean removed a day later. by this dreadful news.” food bank, opened in 2013 – is not Rodrigo, David Latto, Colin Waltham Forest CCG Another, @rusherreturns, alone in seeing a drastic increase Read, Terry Day, Jack Hewitt, Chair, Dr Ken Aswani tweeted: “Dr Obaro in locals relying on its support. Andrew Shields, Michelle and Local Medical was a lovely man and Eat Or Heat, a food bank which Committee Chair, Dr a brilliant doctor who gives to individuals and families Edwards, Olivia Devereux- Gabby Ivbijaro, called was so kind to me when – as well as provides fresh fruit Evans, Penny Rutterford, his death “a tragic loss I needed it the most, and veg to Highams Park Food Robin Sinha, Jo Sealy, Steve of a highly-respected this is so incredibly sad. Aid, The Hornbeam Centre and Barnabis & Project Zero, front line health worker” While resident Kath Pl84U Al-Suffa – also reported a Summaya Abbas in a joint statement. Green, under the user- similar rise in users. The member organisations It read: “On behalf of name @kathphoto, “We have over double the of WFWellComm CIC are: all our colleagues, it is shared a humorous amount of clients attending our Community Transport Waltham with great sadness that story: “So very sad three food banks in Waltham Forest, Social Spider CIC, HEET. we report the loss of our to hear that the won- Forest,” Gary C. Nash, Chair WFWellComm CIC Board: colleague Dr Augustine derful charismatic Dr of Eat Or Heat, told the Echo. David Floyd, Social Spider CIC Obaro who passed away Obaro passed away. He Stats published on their web- Tom Ruxton, HEET after a short illness. was a brilliant Dr. site show a dramatic rise in Helen Tredoux, “Dr Obaro quali- “My daughter drew referrals from just over 1,000 Community Transport WF fied as a doctor at the a very large round pic- people between March and University of Maidu- ture of him [at] her August 2019, to almost 2,500 guri in Nigeria in appointment, I was for the same period in 2020. Contact 1984. He continued mortified. He roared Numbers continue to rise quickly. Call 020 8521 7956 working in Nigeria until 1999 with laughter, made her laugh Highams Park Food Aid revealed Email [email protected] Post The Mill, 7 –11 Coppermill when he moved to the UK to “His support of & pinned it up. Every[time] we it is currently supporting 218 peo- Lane, Walthamstow E17 7HA commence training to become African doctors in visited it was still there!” ple as of January 2021, though a General Practitioner. He Echo readers also paid tribute was providing food hampers to Advertising completed this training in the UK – and his on Instagram, with @nok262 158 people in December 2020. Kent in February 2004 and has writing: “He was brilliant and They’ve grown their operation Call 07732 000 430 generous spirit Email [email protected] worked as a GP in Waltham always had a smile.” to support additional families Forest ever since. – earned him the “Absolutely devastated,” via numerous other food banks, “In addition to his role at nickname King” wrote @sdar68. “He was my including Peabody, Friday Hill and Addison Road Medical Prac- Dr for 15 years. Always full of at Leyton Sixth Form College. tice he has done a great deal the UK, Africa and America and life and laughter. He will be “We only started in April 2020 of work for the out of hours especially by his loving wife Eliz- missed. Taken b4 his time.” thinking it would be a tempo- services over the years, most abeth and sons Raphael, Charles, GPOnline reported that Dr rary service for a few weeks to recently with Waltham Forest Osebi and Christopher.” Obaro sadly became the 15th support the local community,”
Waltham Forest Echo is a member of GP Federation.” Raphael was among the first UK GP to die from Covid-19, volunteer Tracey told us. “We IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor Dr Obaro completed a post- to lead tributes to his father on and the 13th from a Black, started with four volunteers and of The Press. For more information on the Echo’s complaints policy and grad diploma at the University social media. Asian or Minority Ethnic supporting five families, to now how to make a complaint visit: walthamforestecho.co.uk/complaints of Leicester in 2015, and it was On 1st January, @RaphaelObaro (BAME) background. 212 families overall.” No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 3 NEWS
Low Hall Sports Ground, Walthamstow the vast majority will follow the rules.” He added that the company was still waiting to hear from the council’s parks team whether all football pitches would be displaced and would “work with” clubs and groups it pushed out. Secret Cinema previously held events in Leyton’s Jubilee Park in 2018 and Rob claimed there were few complaints, add- ing: “Where we did have complaints, we went out and fixed them.” Sarah Eastwood, however, contested this claim, telling the committee many residents had told her they were “very unhappy” with how their concerns were dealt with three years ago. Rob also refused to answer a question from one resident about how much Secret Cinema had offered to pay the council for use of the site, claiming this was commercially sensitive information. Residents were told that, during the day before each screening, the site would be used to hold a programme of events for local people and children, with a focus on employment. Secret Cinema also plans to hold a free Secret cinema set to host screening of a family-friendly film for people living nearby and will offer 1,500 free tickets to its other shows. The com- summer events in Walthamstow mittee granted permission for the events but has decided Secret Cinema must hold monthly meetings with community groups Waltham Forest Council’s licensing committee gives the to update them and address concerns. go-ahead for three months of “immersive” film screenings, Following the Echo’s initial report online, the Waltham Forest film community also writes Victoria Munro, Local Democracy Reporter spoke out against the decision. Local filmmaker Catherine Bray tweeted popular cinema events company the entire school summer holiday and almost risks to our community, they will leave in response: “Very bad news. Secret Cin- has been granted permission to all warm weather weekends either side. no positive legacy and they will hijack ema coming to Walthamstow to deprive hold three months of “immer- “There are certainly reasons to support and damage our public land. They will children’s football teams of their playing sive” outdoor film screenings on events in green spaces but this applica- make a profit and we, the community, grounds, in order to charge people £80 Aa Walthamstow sports ground this summer. tion deprives the community during the will be paying the price.” to watch Dirty Dancing. Despite receiving 138 objections, Wal- day in order to serve its premium client Other residents expressed concerns “As a resident, I think I speak for many tham Forest Council’s licensing committee base at night.” about light and noise pollution from the when I say could you just not, please?” granted Secret Cinema’s application for David Mammion, from Coppermill screening itself and disturbance from cus- East London cinema pop-up Stow Film events in Low Hall Sports Ground, in the Swifts FC, noted the placement of the site tomers leaving the site at night. Lounge added: “Rather shocked to see this St James area of Walthamstow. will make most, if not all, of the ground’s Secret Cinema will not tell its custom- area was subject to the planning application The company plans to hold one outdoor football pitches unusable. ers exactly where the screening is being and for the length of time over the summer. screening every day of the week – except The community club, which has around held, instead directing them to Lea Bridge “Another example of the inappropriate Mondays – from Tuesday, 6th July until 40 members at present, not only trains on Station and then chaperoning them to the use of the public realm in these ‘commer- Sunday, 12th September. Its website states these pitches but also uses them to provide event itself. They insist most customers cialised’ times.” it will be showing Dirty Dancing. training for local kids, both boys and girls, will follow stewards back to this station Advertisement The events, for which attendees paying aged three to eleven. when they leave but residents fear some from £49–£89 per ticket are expected to David said: “Our last training session will cut across residential streets to get to LICENSING ACT 2003 come dressed as characters from the film, had 72 kids. We have outgrown our win- better-connected stations. Application for the Grant will last from 6pm until 10.30pm, with ter facilities and need to continue to use Applicant Rob Haworth told residents: of a Premises License alcohol for sale until 10pm. Low Hall fields. “We completely understand we could be per- Notice is hereby given that Hi-Klas Services (UK) Ltd has Secret Cinema insists its customers are “The council should be investing in Low ceived as a big problem for the area over the applied to the London Borough of Waltham Forest for the grant “well behaved” but residents fear distur- Hall to allow projects like this to continue summer and that’s the last thing we want. of a Premises Licence at 430 Hoe Street E17 9AA bance and are angry about losing a large to grow and this area needs to be used “I’m not going to pretend there’s no The nature of the application is as follows: chunk of their nearest green space for through the summer.” impact from what we are proposing but I To permit the sale of alcohol Monday to Sunday, most of the summer. Isla Johns implored While Secret Cinema will only hold its believe we can limit those impacts. 10:00am– 22:00pm The Licensing register listing full details of the application is the committee to consider the impact events if lockdown rules permit, Sarah “Everything is facing away from residents kept by the Licensing Service, 3 The Square, Leyton, London E10 5NR. The application may be viewed Monday to Friday blocking off a large plot in the middle of Eastwood argued that even legal events and we designed the site specifically with between the hours of 9am–5pm (except Bank Holidays). the grounds would have on local people. will expose the surrounding area to an our neighbours in mind. Any person wishing to make a representation in respect of Isla said: “Secret Cinema would lead the increased Covid-19 risk. “You are right that we do not have as the above activities may do so in writing to the Licensing Service, 3 The Square, Leyton, London E10 5NR or via email: sub committee to believe it will only use She said: “The local population has a much control over audiences when they [email protected]. half of the site but its own plans clearly choice normally about whether we decide leave the site but we will make the recom- Representations must be received no later than 16/02/2021. demonstrate it would make the space to attend high-risk places but these events mendation they go back to Lea Bridge It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with this application. A person is unusable for local children. take that choice away because they are Station and we do steward that route. liable to an unlimited fine on conviction should such a false “A large number of children would have coming to us. “I’m not going to guarantee nobody will statement be made. Dated: 26/01/2021 their activity and exercise space removed for “Secret Cinema is importing massive make their way to any other station but 4 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO NEWS Mini food bank to pop up Virtual artist Sean Rodrigo and PL84U Al-Suffa team up for an innovative approach to food donations iniature 3D-printed waterproofed, the intention is to will encourage people to donate, but food banks are set to hard-secure the mini food banks to also that those who aren’t usually strug- start popping up across fences. They’re also self-sustaining, gling – but now are due to Covid-19 Credit David Latto Waltham Forest, – will make use of his creation. Mthanks to a collaboration between “I’m kind of hoping it will Ronnie O’Sullivan a local resident and multi-faith become a place where people will charity PL84U Al-Suffa. go with their kids, where they can visits The Hornbeam The first, designed loosely in go and deliver a can,” he shared. egendary snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan the style of an East London pie “It’s a nice way of doing some- volunteered at The Hornbeam Centre and and mash shop, will be located thing for the community that The Gleaners Community Café on Christ- at 172 Winns Avenue, Waltham- doesn’t cost a lot of money. It mas Day. stow and is expected to arrive doesn’t require people to do much.” LRonnie, 45, who lives just outside of Waltham For- in February. It is built to hold Originally from Australia, Sean est, reached out to both organisations in order to play around 35 cans – a new way moved to the borough last year his part in providing hot meals and grocery bags to for PL84U to receive donations, from elsewhere in London – and residents in need. for those in need to access food now plans to make a further three “He was really enthusiastic, keen to help out,” fast, and for residents to drop off boxes over the coming months. Colin Read, a volunteer for The Gleaners, told the non-perishables. Future plans include a Wood Echo. “He quietly got on with a number of jobs, Sean Rodrigo, the virtual artist Street mini food bank, one near including washing up and delivering meals out in working for free on the project, Henry Maynard Primary School, the community.” took on the initiative after ren- plus a bank in the St James Street/ While Ronnie said of his experience: ”I really ovating a Tiny Street Library Blackhorse Road area. enjoyed the day doing my bit for a great cause. in Walthamstow, alongside his “This particular community is So many people are grateful for what the volunteers partner Gail. very good with grassroots projects are doing here. The food is tasty and it’s great to put Arts organisations Wood Street - there are lots of great people and a smile on people’s faces and to help where possible.” Walls and Urban By Design organisations who provide sup- Meals are cooked daily by a team of volunteers with contributed to the creation of port,” he affirms. “It’s something quality ingredients donated locally, from places such the first mini food bank, which Sean with solar-powered lighting inside, that doesn’t exist in other parts of Lon- as Today Bread on Hoe Street, The Felix Project, City tells the Echo took a total of two full and plans for an interior button that don, and even in my home country.” Harvest and OrganicLea in Chingford. weeks to make, plus hundreds of 3D residents can push to notify PL84U Since March 2020, The Gleaners Community Café printing hours at his studio. when the box is full. To help fund materials to make these has served over 30,000 meals, mostly for free, across Made of MDF, fully varnished and Sean’s hope is that the mini food bank mini food banks, visit: gf.me/u/zf6kyb Waltham Forest. Advertisement
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We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority number 619031 Sales, Rentals and Managing Agents since 2008! No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 5 NEWS New youth club to COMMENT open in Walthamstow Project Zero to open a new space for youths in their quest to tackle knife crime by Victoria Munro, fun activities, learning and support for “The perpetrator was a 16-year-old Local Democracy Reporter those aged eight and older. Pandemic boy, who had been excluded from restrictions allowing, Steve hopes to school, and his home life was tense. community group tackling run its first holiday programme during It got me thinking that the need to youth violence in Waltham the February half-term. provide support for young people Forest is set to open a new Steve told the Local Democracy was greater than ever.” space for young people. Reporting Service: “My cousin Rob- Over twelve years, The Soul Project ASteve Barnabis previously ran The ert was killed by knife crime in 2004. was so successful that Steve’s work was Soul Project in Wood Street, offering I went to the hospital and I was there celebrated by a mural in Canning Street, Hello and thanks! a free space for young people, but the in the morgue and had quite a varied painted by the artist Gabriel Pitcher. A note from your new charity was evicted from its build- range of emotions. In 2019 Steve lost another cousin, ing in 2018. His new group, Project Alex, to knife crime, receiving the editor Elizabeth Atkin Zero, aims to see a year where zero news as he and his relatives were pre- n 2014, I moved from my hometown of New- young people die from gun or knife “The need to provide paring to hold a summer event for castle to London with a clear goal in mind: to crime, and has now found a building support for young young people. Ibecome a journalist. to operate from on a long-term basis. He said: “It was a really strange Since then, I’ve covered everything from news and Project Zero had been running briefly people greater day. I had family members having to celebrity for national papers to health issues for spe- at CRATE St James Street, but needed than ever” go off to the crime scene and I was cialist websites. Most recently, I ran the digital side a bigger space to offer youth services. having to cover the programmes they of a much-loved travel magazine, providing useful The Outset Centre in Grange Road “I had empathy and understanding would have been running. guides, plenty of inspiration and fascinating stories has now been offered to the group for why young people might carry a “It was quite difficult the second about people from around the world. “at a very reduced rent” by Waltham knife or commit a crime but it was time around. 15 years on and it felt I loved (maybe even lived) to travel. And I will again Forest Council and will play host to quite a difficult process. like it was not getting better but actu- (when we can). But when Covid struck, like everyone ally getting worse.” else, I stayed local. It dawned on me quickly that so He hopes that Project Zero’s new much of what I was looking for from travel – unusual youth club at The Outset Centre will places to visit, new cuisines to try, nature and wildlife, provide a safe place for young people interesting people to meet and, of course, great stories to go, both after school and during to tell – was under my nose, at home, the whole time. holidays, where they can have fun I’ve been in Leyton since July 2019. I like to think supervised by staff members. that fate brought me to the borough in the first Activities as diverse as coding, music place – initial plans to move here almost failed in production, fashion and drone-flying dramatic fashion, after a Walthamstow rental fell will be offered free to young people, through just three days before I was due to move in. with an emphasis on employment for And I also like to think that being made redundant older groups. from that travel job was fate, too. Though crushing He shared: “We know that a lot of (and immensely worrying), it eventually led me to parents, especially around this area, have the job boards that advertised the position of Echo concerns around gangs and drugs and editor – just as previous editor, James Cracknell, was very rarely allow their children to go out. ready to focus on the Enfield Dispatch and his new “We are also going to be working role within Social Spider. very closely with the youth offending This editorship is a dream come true. A huge priv- team and providing one-to-one pro- ilege, too, one I promise to take very seriously. And I grammes to steer [young people] away am acutely aware that I have big shoes to fill. Along from getting into further trouble.” with many warm wishes and congratulations I have Beyond the pandemic, Steve said received from journalists, volunteers, community the biggest challenge was securing organisations and residents in the borough (thank long-term funding. “At the last cen- you), I have also received many wonderful tributes tre we had a soft play area, which to James for me to pass on. generated income that helped us Going forward, my plan for the Echo is simple: to quite a bit,” he noted. keep bringing you news, to highlight Waltham For- “With this centre, it’s not that big est’s commendable people, cultural organisations and so we have not got that facility. We’re community initiatives – more vital than ever in these going to be very reliant on fundrais- tough times – and to grow not only the print edition ing and grants to run because we of the paper, but our online presence, too. Expect want to make everything free for many changes to walthamforestecho.co.uk and our young people.” social media platforms over the coming months. If you feel like it’s the right time for you to get involved For more information with the Echo – as a member, a contributor, a volun- about Project Zero: teer, or even with a letter – please get in touch. My Facebook /ProjectZeroWF Project Zero founder Steve Barnabis Credit Project Zero inbox is always open: [email protected]. 6 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO COMMENT The pandemic’s invisible elderly Age UK Waltham Forest’s Befriending Manager, Terry Day, shines a light on the borough’s elderly residents still living at home, and the carers who support them h no, please, not demic. They have funded care Peter* as well.” homes to make sure that their “O My heart sank carers aren’t having to travel when I heard that Peter had between care homes, potentially tested positive for Covid-19. spreading infection. What about He was the sixth older person in the domiciliary carers potentially just two weeks since Christmas, spreading infection? And what who had caught Covid-19 from about the housebound, who a carer visiting his home to pro- may receive their vaccination vide essential care. letter, but are physically unable Peter is 101, and living happily to attend a centre or an appoint- in his own home for many years ment? I’ve seen these things hap- – only very recently needing to pening with my own eyes. have carer visits. How do I know At the time of writing, Peter is he caught it from his carer? One still alive – he’s one of the tough- of them tested positive for the est, most amazing people I’ve ever virus, and I can’t imagine how had the privilege of working with. bad the person who gave it to But in the last ten months, 16 of him must feel. my clients have died, average age I am angry – not at his carer, 87. That’s four times the number but at a system which allows so Credit Unsplash that would normally die in a year. many thousands of older people privatised system. They don’t That is where I come in, as the every single day since the start I am sure some of those deaths to remain invisible, forgotten. get paid for the time it takes to Befriending Manager at Age UK of the pandemic in March 2020. could have been prevented. Older people who are still living travel between clients, nor are Waltham Forest. We support an All I hear on the news and *Name changed in their own homes, but need they supplied with adequate per- amazing army of 238 volunteers from the government is about help with tasks like washing, sonal protective equipment. All who each befriend an isolated the elderly living in care homes. If you are over 60, live alone and getting dressed, going to the too often, they have too many older person – many friendships They matter, of course they need a befriender, ring Age UK toilet, and making meals. homes to visit in a day, with lasting for years – usually visit- matter. But the older people we Waltham Forest on: 020 8558 5512 They are cared for by an amaz- insufficient time in each visit to ing every week, and since Covid befriend matter, too. If you’d like to volunteer as a ing army of carers who are provide the basics – let alone just phoning several times a week. The government has spent so befriender, go to: ageuk.org.uk/ paid a pittance in a completely sit and chat. Many of them have phoned many billions during this pan- walthamforest/get-involved/volunteer/ NEWS LOOK HIM IN THE EYES The Antelope pub owner loses appeal over conversion into flats A victory for Leyton residents as Tzvi Ltd is ordered LOOK HIM IN THE EYES to reverse pub’s unapproved flat conversion by Victoria Munro, Local Democracy Reporter a shop. Their campaign to save it was reported in a recent edition of the Echo. he owner of a landmark pub The council later ordered the company to must reverse work done to turn reverse the changes – which were carried the building into flats after los- out without planning permission. AND TELL HIM ing an appeal against Waltham In mid-January, the Planning Inspec- TForest Council. torate announced its verdict, directing THE RISK ISN’T REAL. Residents were horrified to see owners the pub’s owners to reverse its conver- Tzvi Ltd convert The Antelope on Church sion into flats. Planning inspector RJ Tony Covid-19 patient Road, Leyton, into 14 studio flats and Perrins wrote: “Local people… have an undisputed desire to investigate the pos- sibilities of a community pub and do not AND TELL HIM want the community asset to be lost.” Around 1 in 3 people who have Covid-19 have no symptoms RJ Perrins also ruled that Tzvi Ltd must THEand RISKare spreading it without ISN’T knowing. Are you REAL. absolutely pay Waltham Forest Council back the positive you’re not one of them? Only go out if essential. money it spent defending the enforce- Sticking toTony the Covid-19 rules stopspatient the spread. ment notices. The council has been con- tacted for comment. For full details of the decision visit: walthamforestecho.co.uk Around 1 in 3 people who have Covid-19 have no symptoms and are spreading it without knowing. Are you absolutely positive you’re not one of them? Only go out if essential. Sticking to the rules stops the spread. No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 7
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How to contact me By Post: 6 Gainsborough Road, John Cryer MP Leytonstone, E11 1HT Email: Leyton & Wanstead [email protected] Tel: 0208 989 5249 www.johncryermp.co.uk Coronavirus - Update @JohnCryerMP
We all continue to deal with Coronavirus on a daily basis. As does my office. Since the 3rd ‘lockdown’ we have seen yet another increase in cases especially on benefits, business grants and loans, furlough, self-employment, and insurance.
Loneliness: Many people, especially older people face struggles at the best of times with lonelieness . In particular at this time of the year .Please keep an eye out for your neighbours at this time. You can information and help here - www.walthamforest.gov.uk/content/mental-health-and-wellbeing-0 and www.ageuk.org.uk/walthamforest/our-services/just-connect-befriending-service/
Vaccinations: The roll out of London Elections Register to Vote by Post: At the moment as we write this ad, we still vaccinations have begun with older have no confirmation as to whether the London Elections will be taking place in May. As people and some key workers. I hope well as how safe it will be to vote in person. Therefore, you can act early to take part in everyone, as they are contacted will the democratic process by registering to vote by Post. You can found out how here get themselves vaccinated. Protecting www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-a-postal-vote not only themselves, but family, friends, neighbours and colleagues. My website see Coronavirus Update dropdown www.johncryermp.co.uk/ www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus Government Covid 19 Hub www.gov.uk/coronavirus for health, benefits, education, Business -vaccination/coronavirus-vaccine/ support,, sick pay, self-employed status and much more. Volunteering: It is going to take a huge national effort to Waltham Forest Council www.walthamforest.gov.uk/service-categories/covid-19 get people vaccinated, the NHS and St Johns Ambulance Service are asking for people to volunteer as stewards, Free library service ebooks &audiobooks www.walthamforest.gov.uk/content/join-free- administration and other roles to assist with the vaccine library-service-now roll out Mutual Aid www.johncryermp.co.uk/volunteering-mutual-aid nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk/ Domestic Abuse Supportwww.johncryermp.co.uk/domestic -abuse-covid-19 www.sja.org.uk/what-we-do/Coronavirus-support/ coronavirus-vaccine/
The TUC is encouraging people to get vaccinated, Help for vulnerable Residents and Residents over 70 encourage others to get vaccinated, volunteer if you can and counter false news about the vaccines online and If you are over 70, you will know you are at greater risk from Covid-19. If you need help locally amongst colleagues, friends and family. there is help available.
www.tuc.org.uk/blogs/lets-vaccinate-britain-time-trade- Waltham Forest - 0208 496 3000 7 days a week 7am-7pm union-members-step www.walthamforest.gov.uk/content/covid-19-community-help-network
Vaccinations for Older People: I know many older people Need food whilst social isolating? You may be able to access this online due to vulnerability are concerned about when they will receive their www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable vaccination. “My mothers neighbour has had hers - she’s 84. My mother is 90 why hasn’t she had hers?! “ I am You’ll need your NHS number which you’ll find on a prescription or GP letter . getting queries like this several times a day. I know people are worried and I am in touch with the CCG about how How can I help? You can contact me through me website email, letter or phone. I don’t deal with cases by people are contacted, the reasoning and rationale for twitter for reasons of limited characters as well as your personal data. appointments. Appointments: I am still operating without face to face surgeries. As I cannot guarantee peoples Covid safety. More information is on my website under the Covid-19 Therefore I am operating a telephone surgery separate to my normal contact number. If you would like an drop down about this issue. appointment call my office or email me for an appointment.
Newsletter: If you would like to subscribe to my monthly e-newsletter. Email me with your details (name, ad- dress, postcode) Subject : ‘Newsletter Opt-in’ 8 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO PHOTOGRAPHY Housing and Development Words by Jack Hewitt For this month’s ‘housing’ theme, I decided to collaborate with photographer Andrew Shields. This came about through sheer coincidence. I had been out photographing the John Walsh and Fred Wigg towers alone one weekend, in light of their recent refurbishment. I then saw his photos on Instagram.
I revisited the towers a few times. I spoke to some residents and staff, plus got in touch with the council to get a feel for what it’s like to live there, and how exactly the council is planning on refurbishing these neglected homes.
One male resident said that over time there has been “drastic [change], and not just these buildings the whole area” since “they’re refurbishing both towers, new kitchens, new bathrooms, everything.”
In the meantime, he says that the council is not always consistent with the upkeep of the buildings. “It depends who you ask really, the lift is constantly in and out of service and always has been. I live on the 13th floor so I have to use the stairs a lot.”
A fire marshal explained that the buildings were supposed to be demolished a couple of years ago but “that was voted against”. He said: “It’s not a development, it’s a complete refurbishment – there’s a multi- million pound programme going on at the moment, completely new interiors, everything new.” Instagram @jackhwtt and @a_d_shields Send us your photos and illustrations! Email: [email protected] No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 9 COLUMN
I’m still being left in limbo about when I might be expected to move off the estate. Last month, I told you that the council Life on the estate performed a remarkable volte-face hav- ing first informed me last year that the Michelle Edwards on the ‘psychological warfare’ date of demolition was probably going to be delayed for 18 months because of involved in her battle to stay on Marlowe Road Estate revised plans by estate developers Coun- can’t be the only Waltham Forest tryside, they then denied ever saying it Council resident that scoffs at any this year. correspondence from them that lands An unplanned conversation with one of on my doorstep. my neighbours on a temporary tenancy IEndless residents’ surveys claiming to want spun the whole cycle of misinformation to understand what communities think. A around once more. Having telephoned the consultation about this, that or the other council to report a pest infestation and pretending to give local people a voice and water penetration in her property from an opportunity to influence important plan- the external roof, she was advised that ning and policy decisions. Or the yearly residents were going to be moved from the revised rent and council tax bills that wreck estate this September. I’m told the update your day by telling you how much less you was delivered in a way that left her feeling will have to live on each month. as though she should tolerate the con- Most residents know that councils some- tractual breaches. Like all the temporary times have a statutory requirement to con- tenants I engage with, they fear making sult their residents, but aren’t bound by the any reports about the condition of their results. Sure, get upset over a proposed local properties for fear of an eviction. That’s library closure or redevelopment and break no way to live your life. your BIC scribbling down your replies. When questioned, the regeneration officer Watch them go ahead anyway. who changed her story, claimed the infor- With that train of thought, I shot an For the third (or is it the fourth?) time, I it tiresome. Why the need to go over the mation I had been passed was ‘incorrect’. angry stare at last month’s letter from the have received correspondence addressed to same ground? Residents in my block do not have to be council’s rehousing manager in housing me personally as if I am a new applicant This time around, I thought I’d run a few moved out by September this year. Notably, supply headed: ‘Important notice about on the council’s housing register. And not questions past the council’s press office to the officer neglected to provide an actual your housing application: We need infor- an existing resident of over 25 years being see if I was missing something. They did date for the move. Attempts to obtain an mation from you by 24th January 2021 or forced out of my home by their redevelop- not respond by my deadline for this column update from Countryside also fell flat. your application may be cancelled.’ ment of the Marlowe Road Estate. I find (nor prior to publication). The psychological warfare continues. Advertisement 10 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO INTERVIEW
This page is sponsored by UnLtd, the foundation for social entrepreneurs. UnLtd finds, funds Contact Simone Watson: and supports people that run businesses with a social purpose. UnLtd works in a number Call 0207 566 1100 of communities across the UK to harness the talents and skills of local people to tackle the Email [email protected] challenges faced by communities and the people who live in them. Visit unltd.org.uk Supporting young people Olivia Devereux-Evans meets the youth worker turning a passion for football into academic success
Summaya outside of CRATE St James Street, where sessions are held Summaya with two of the boys her Study Support and Life Skills Sessions supports ummaya Abbas wants academic Salaam Peace is a project using sport Skills Sessions, Summaya is studying have always wanted to do something support to be available to young and social education to bring people for her masters in Organisational Psy- about it, but did not know how to people of all backgrounds. from diverse backgrounds together. chology and working. go about doing that. Merging with That’s why she’s been run- Study Support and Life Skills Sessions She has always been passionate about Salaam Peace provided that initial Sning Study Support and Life Skills runs in collaboration with the social the issue of academic opportunities for foundation to have access to a group Sessions for nearly three months. Her action group, supporting two groups BAME people. It was this that gave her that wanted help.” enterprise offers academic help and life of twelve boys. Salaam Peace runs the idea to set up Study Support and Study Support and Life Skills Sessions skills lessons to youngsters. football games, then two Study Sup- Life Skills Sessions. will be buying more laptops and tablets Explaining the idea behind her port and Life Skills Sessions run each Summaya said: “I think growing up for the boys to use for their studies business, Summaya told the Echo: weekend at CRATE St James Street. in both Hackney and Walthamstow, in the sessions – a task helped by the “During the Covid period, I went to a The most recent workshop is all about there is always this deep-rooted issue of recent award they received from UnLtd. fitness session by a local community presentation skills. The boys are given BAME and low socio-economic status Summaya said of the grant: “It’s also action group in Walthamstow called three weeks to prepare a presentation individuals being quite disadvantaged going to go on any other resources Salaam Peace. There were a group to showcase to their peers, to help when it comes to academia and that also that we need. We use CGP books and of really young boys who were all boost their confidence. In the session, has a negative impact on finding jobs. resources resources. It is also being playing football. the youngsters also receive help with “I was very fortunate to have a used to cover the rent at the location “They could really do with academic their school work from Summaya and a mother who works in academia we use. It is going on stationary, too, as support, because a lot of these boys do colleague who works for Salaam Peace. herself. Financially, I was always well as volunteer expenses to provide not have computers at home, where Lessons occur in person each weekend fortunate to have parents who them with an hourly rate.” they could do their online learning with sessions spread across two rooms could pay for me to have a tutor. from – but you could see their passion to allow for social distancing. Study It was always okay for me. I would see Find out more about Supported by for football. I could only imagine if Support and Life Skills Sessions provide some of my friends struggling and even Study Support and Life they had the support in academia how the boys with laptops and tablets to now I still see them struggling. Skills Sessions: some of them could shine. That was complete their work at the centre. “The longer-term issue is some- the light bulb moment.” Alongside Study Support and Life thing that has always been there. I Visit salaampeace.org No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 11 LETTERS
this simple thing sorted for me. I structure” nor has the “limited that they want to ‘build a new this site hosts a wide range of Flooded am disabled with mutism and an cultural provision” that Secret relationship with our community sports clubs from badminton to eye injury too. I live alone and my Cinema says define its locations. where residents play a greater role boxing, together with art and cul- carer has just informed me they We’re not against Low Hall Sports in making decisions and shaping tural activities, parties, commu- underpass have Covid symptoms. Ground being used for exciting their neighbourhoods.’ Yet with nity meetings and youth services. Dear Waltham Forest Echo Anonymous cultural events if they’re organ- this proposal, for the sake of one At least 26 different groups had As a runner/cyclist who uses Walthamstow ised responsibly and with locals private landowner, 90+ residents made bookings during 2020 that the Walthamstow Marshes and in mind, however, this is a wholly are repeatedly having to endure were cancelled due to Covid-19. Wetlands many times a week, it inappropriate use of the site where years of cyclical stress over a build Waltham Forest Council is seek- has been frustrating me that the only Secret Cinema profits, and which will undoubtedly change ing to develop the site for housing, underpass below Lea Bridge Road The gift our community pays the price. the way we all live for the worse. potentially demolishing the Pas- has been flooded since early Octo- Residents can share their views Anonymous tures building. Save Our Pastures ber. If you want to continue to of reading by emailing dmconsultations@ Leytonstone is a community-based campaign the other side, you have to cross walthamforest.gov.uk until 12th developed in response. a muddy verge and a busy road. Dear Waltham Forest Echo February We want the council to work I have been in contact with my I’m a local mother and founder of Low Hall Community Group Nature calls with us to make these facilities local councillors and Lee Valley Cub & Bear Bookshop, currently Walthamstow the basis of a multicultural, social Regional Park Authority since fundraising to buy books for the Dear Waltham Forest Echo resource that will meet the current November, who are blaming it on a families The Lloyd Park Chil- The coronavirus pandemic is a and future needs of our growing leak from Thames Water. Given the dren’s Charity (TLPCC) support. tragedy for humans everywhere. community, and be a vibrant hub to water falls in periods without rain, Having just navigated the chal- Protect My heart goes out to all who have engage and inspire young people. and rises again after rain, I’m not lenging first year of being a mum, suffered illness, stress and loss. We believe there is untapped entirely trustful of that diagnosis. I’m learning how books help a Browning Still, against the stream of con- demand in the area for fit-for- It’s now been a third of a year that child develop their communica- stant and often negative media purpose facilities serving local the underpass has been flooded. tion skills and understanding of coverage, there is a quiet benefit people’s business, cultural, phys- If anybody is affected by it, I the world, whilst strengthening Road from the crisis. ical and social needs. encourage you to get in touch the parent-child bond. Dear Waltham Forest Echo Here in the borough, for exam- In particular, an independent with your local councillor and I’ve been fortunate enough to For nearly seven years, a group ple, a friend tells me how the first report by Sport England has iden- the park authority, as this may benefit from a support group of over 90 Leytonstone residents lockdown enabled her finally, tified a shortfall in provision of be an issue where the numbers within TLPCC, so it means a lot have received repeated planning after a long time living in Upper sports halls in the borough. We of contacts can help. to give back. applications for three-story Walthamstow, to fully explore believe the existing Pastures build- David S We want to ask the community buildings in a back garden space her surroundings and fall in love ings and site have long suffered Pasquier Road, Walthamstow if they can spare £5 to help us that our own houses and gar- with Epping Forest. from under-investment by Waltham make a difference to local fami- dens encircle. My pals and I discover the hid- Forest Council and lacked promo- lies. Please visit the funding page A committee of Waltham For- den geology beneath the concrete tion to potential community users. if you can: bit.ly/3sGsilw est councillors last denounced the urban landscape: unexpected A ‘Save Our Pastures’ petition is application in December 2019, stretches of Dagenham Brook and currently live at change.org, while Help the Rachel Straughan with impact to Epping Forest Spe- wild fields behind housing estates; the website saveourpastures.org Cub & Bear Bookshop cial Area of Conservation, Tree the grand shape of the Lea Valley gives background information hungry Preservation and Protection, Air separating ‘us’ from the neigh- and links to our very active social Dear Waltham Forest Echo Quality and Children’s and Vul- bouring boroughs. media channels. Like many Waltham Forest No to Secret nerable Community Members’ No need to go far for cheerful For too long, community spaces residents, I’ve been helped by Best Interests all at play. encounters with nature and neigh- have come under pressure. As we food banks in the past couple Cinema Yet just before Christmas 2020, bourhood. There is so much rich- start to emerge from the pan- of months, for which I am very Dear Waltham Forest Echo at the end of a challenging year, we ness around – at this moment, two demic, we need resources like grateful. However none of them During the pandemic, Low Hall were bewildered to be presented loud geese fly overhead, sending Pastures now more than ever. has taken any notice of the fact Sports Ground has become more with an identical application and the black-and-white younger cat Save Our Pastures Action Group that I’m vegan and don’t eat junk important than ever as a commu- told that Waltham Forest will once on the wall shooting up onto the Leytonstone food or spicy food (I am allergic to nity space that allows people to again spend resources subjecting roof, in a hopeful bird-catching pepper, paprika and other spices). exercise and relax in a socially dis- us to the arduous planning pro- frenzy… Being a witness, I feel up I regularly get meat, fish, cheese tanced way. Secret Cinema plans to cess. The next month, noting the to bursting with joy. Send your letters Send letters (up to 200 words) and junk food that even the foxes take it out of public use for over Covid-19 pandemic, we received Dr Barbara Korner to [email protected] and crows won’t touch delivered, three months this summer to run numerous emails from the coun- Associated Lecturer, by 16th February with only the odd carrot, potato events that are unaffordable for cil claiming that residents’ mental Social Sciences or tomato. I regularly receive most local people. health is their priority – surely they Advertisement plenty of junk food (also con- Organisers estimate 4,700 people see the irony here? Goods Vehicle taining animal products) like will attend each of the 35 events. The two-year build is to take Operator’s Licence biscuits, doughnuts, sweets, etc We’re deeply concerned about the place on land that is only acces- Save our which are not healthy. impact of those guests passing sibly via an under-croft, its Village Quality Products Limited of Unit A3 Circular Point, Hickman Avenue E4 9JG I have tried to get food vouchers through quiet residential streets, mega-basement plans will require Pastures Company NR: 08373109 from Waltham Forest Council. I am the relentless noise of the shows multiple lorries turning into a nar- Dear Waltham Forest Echo Operator’s Licence Nr: OK1125038 too ill to fill in their form which is over the entire summer, as well as row road opposite Leytonstone’s The Pastures youth and sports is applying for a licence to use: Unit A3 Circular Point, so many pages long and requires so the effect on the conservation areas busiest children’s playground – centre, set amid walled grounds Hickman Avenue, London E4 9JG much supporting information (all right next to the site. After a year and LBWF already has sadden- in Davies Lane, off Leytonstone as an operating centre and we wish to keep an extra 4 goods vehicles and 0 trailers. Instead of the previous 8 of which the council already has for of restricted movement, having the ing statistics on child road safety High Road, has for many decades vehicles, we wish to keep a total number of 12 vehicles. people on benefits), that is seems use of a key open space taken away and air quality. A fire engine could provided a secure and welcoming Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre (s) who believe that their use or designed to make people give up. from us is unacceptable. never reach the space. The build- environment for local people of enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at I don’t have the strength to cope. Waltham Forest was the Lon- ings would seriously damage res- all ages and backgrounds. Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. I have had no proper food for don Borough of Culture 2019 and idents’ privacy – I will be viewed Together with the adjoining Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the months and Stella Creasy’s team is teeming with creative people. throughout my entire living space. Good Shepherd Building, built top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office. have been unable (why?) to get It neither lacks “creative infra- LBWF housing strategy states as a children’s home in the 1880s, 12 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO
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www.haringey6.ac.uk #MoreThanACollege No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 13 ARTS & CULTURE
The Wingdolph Project at 2020’s Walthamstow Garden Party In The Air Credit Robin Sinha
"You don’t need to be an artist to get involved"
exhibition along Wingfield and has been of real benefit to support Randolph Roads. each other during Covid times.” Talking about her experience Initiated by Deborah Day in 2012, Art everywhere, of the E17 Art Trail, she shared: the Wingdolph Roads project has “It brings the community together since seen exhibitions displayed in a and totally changed how I feel safe, socially-distanced way in front about Walthamstow, even before gardens, windows and hedges. People for everyone I started taking part. of all ages and abilities join in because “We got to know so many they enjoy a creative project. In 2019, think I speak for many when I people in our two roads and there around 30 households took part. Penny Rutterford, say there’s not been much to look were people at either end who had So, pop the dates in your diary, and forward to recently. And so it is in been long-term residents and they why not start planning? Bring your c ommunications the spirit of hope, and confidence only got to know each other by neighbours together. Give it a go. Iin the impact of culture and creativity taking part in the Art Trail. lead at Artillery, to bring us all together, that the E17 “Loads of things came of that – The E17 Art Trail 2021 theme is Possible Art Trail – our much-loved biennial like street parties and get togethers. Futures. To register or donate, visit: www.e17arttrail.org.uk kicks off her new festival – will be taking place from 1st That led to a ‘Neighbourly Natter’ to 18th July. WhatApp group. People have To see the Wingdolph Road exhibit, visit: monthly column A successful crowdfunding become really connected and that facebook.com/WingdolphRoadsArtTrailProject campaign with donations from more about the returning than 200 residents, artists and local business owners is helping us at E17 Art Trail Artillery to plan this year’s festival. Each year of the E17 Art Trail, there are exhibitions and displays in homes, studios, windows, schools, faith spaces, cafes and shops… the E17 takeover list goes on! We don’t know if our movements will still be restricted this summer, but we believe that our creative community will rise to the challenge and we are exploring safe ways for us all to take part and enjoy what will be on offer. And you don’t need to be an artist to get involved. Silvana Gambini is a local resident who has always enjoyed exploring the E17 Art Trail and who was inspired to team up with neighbours organising an 14 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO COLUMNS The Head Bloomer’s headline-worthy hats Jo Sealy of the Waltham Forest Business Network introduces us to bloomin’ brilliant milliner Victoria Arthur... hen E17-based Vic- While Victoria will participate “Of course, most of last year’s toria Arthur started in pop-up events to promote her events did not happen due to the making hats and head- classic and vintage creations, much pandemic and that will also have W of her work comes through recom- an impact this year. UK orders have pieces for fun, little did she know it would start a new business ven- mendation and she has a growing been less than normal. It’s been ture – The Head Bloomer Ltd – network of overseas clients. quite challenging. and end up featured in magazines “Nevertheless, many of my cur- such as Tatler and Vogue. rent orders have come from abroad, Her fascinating journey to mak- “It was a places such as Ghana where people ing fascinators began in 2013 she proud moment have been able to hold small events.” explained. “I attended a millinery And eight years after The Head class to make a hat for an event. when a high- Bloomer began, Victoria says she I enjoyed the creative freedom the profile person still gets a thrill when a magazine experience gave me so much that editor requests one of her hats to I started making hats in my spare wore my hat to be featured in their magazine. time for friends and family, decid- the Buckingham “It gives me great satisfaction ing to study millinery further and when I see others appreciate my turn my hobby into a business.” Palace Garden work. It was a proud moment when The Head Bloomer now provides Party” a high-profile person wore my hat high quality headpieces that are to a Buckingham Palace Garden usually unique one-off creations “January and February are nor- Party – and when I came across a for special occasions. Victoria’s mally quiet months and from customer wearing one of my hats to designs can take from just a few March onwards my clients are get- a royal wedding, which was featured days to a number of weeks to cre- ting ready for the Grand National, in the Daily Mail!” ate, depending upon the complexity Royal Ascot and the wedding sea- For more information: of the design. son,” she said. Visit theheadbloomer.com Victoria Arthur, the Walthamstow woman behind The Head Bloomer Advertisement
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Visit www.ethicalproperty.co.uk Email [email protected] or call 01865 207 810 to find out more No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 15 NEWS Mixed feedback on early Fellowship Square plans Over 700 residents have seen the ‘emerging’ designs, as phase two of the project draws to a close
esidents have shared According to the proposal itself, Accessibility, the volume and mixed feedback on the a total of 701 people have seen density of the proposed housing, R second phase of the Fel- the designs since October 2020 and ensuring the protection of lowship Square development at – all of whom were residents of the Town Hall’s 1930s Art Deco Walthamstow Town Hall. the borough. architecture were all key concerns. The current proposal includes Suggestions included more 450 new homes (with 50% “Green space, the market stalls and a community deemed affordable) built around garden, plus there was a clear the existing Town Hall, plus a density of housing desire for more small indepen- new ‘modern’ civic building, and protecting the dent eateries and businesses, like community spaces and ‘refur- bookshops, in the area. bished’ existing green space, with Town Hall’s Art Deco This is just the second phase of an ‘enhanced’ Chestnut Field. architecture were the Fellowship Square project, Toy Library Waltham Forest residents were which is run by Waltham Forest invited to provide feedback in a key concerns” Council and UK developer Coun- second design discussion meeting tryside Properties. petition takes off on 14th December, while 54 local Feedback was mixed, with res- The next stage, taking place over residents wrote in with feedback idents focusing largely on their winter 2020-21, will see a ‘mas- Residents continue to fight the on the online proposal, which can desire for more green space, and terplan’ proposal put together, eviction of Walthamstow Toy Library still be viewed at: fellowshipsquare. to minimise cutting down trees as well as the beginning of the commonplace.is/proposals/ in the area. formal consultation process. ver 1,250 people have of its building, Waltham called for a stop to the Forest Clinical Commission- O eviction of Waltham- ing Group (CCG) – but has stow’s beloved Toy Library. now been told it needs to pay At the time of writing, a almost £8,000 a month in rent, change.org petition had reached totalling nearly £100,000 for a 1,283 signatures – demanding year, or move premises. that the long-standing charity, Waltham Forest CCG con- which offers toy loaning, play firmed that Walthamstow Toy sessions and maternal mental Library will be forced to find a health services, remains at its new location in June 2021, add- home of 35 years: Comely Bank ing on their website: “The CCG on Ravenswood Road. can no longer justify providing The Echo previously reported this level of financial support that Walthamstow Toy Library to a single charity. The subsidy has been paying a nominal is worth £50,000 per annum of amount of rent to the owner taxpayers’ money.” Advertisement
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Afternoon tea – order via WhatsApp. Find Fortnightly brown bin us on Deliveroo collections temporarily suspended & Just Eat ortnightly brown bin col- as of 12th January. Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy for takeaways, lections and large item Garden waste and large item emailed residents to say that the Thu-Sun. collection services have collection services are can- decision to suspend services will Ftemporarily been suspended, due celled (except for appoint- be reviewed every two weeks. Tel 07757 742305 to Covid-19 and staff sickness. ments booked prior to the The three Household Waste Email Over 50 staff working for 12th) to ensure regular green and Recycling Centres in the [email protected] Address 186 Wood St, Walthamstow E17 3NA Urbaser, Waltham Forest Coun- and black bin collections can borough are still taking pre- Website cil’s waste contractor, were off ill continue as normal. booked appointments. oldstationyardcafe.co.uk 16 No. 71 FEBRUARY 2021 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO Support independent local journalism
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