NEWS WFree to 3e800 hsomest, in lcibrarieos and msome shops b e September 2020 No. 6

Pandemonium did not reign; it poured. John Kendrick Bangs CONCURRENT TRAFFIC TRIALS AFFECTING RESIDENTS PROTEST THE WESTCOMBE PARK AREA WN Reporter ! AT POTENTIAL EYESORE Ann Hill

he Westcombe Society has recently traffic in West Greenwich. This, known as Mock-up of proposed mast by Emily Norton Tbeen informed about the two traffic tri - ‘Hills and Vales’ will involve the installa - als below which will affect our area. They tion of modal filters which will give access are to be run almost concurrently. to some forms of transport and not others Greenwich Park (eg no cars but cycles allowed,) achieved One of the desired outcomes of the Royal with bollards and plant containers in many Parks Movement Strategy was to reduce cases and width restrictions. the amount of vehicular through traffic This has been implemented under an within our parks. In Greenwich Park this Experimental Traffic Order and began on was to be achieved by the removal of the 20th August. A public consultation will commuter route through the Park. You will happen following the trial period where have seen our response to the Strategy in actual experiences can be shared. Feedback the May issue of the Westcombe News can be provided on the proposals from the where we pointed out that we had concerns 3rd September by completing an online about the impact this would have on survey. ver 100 objections were sent to benefits of the mast would be a much Westcombe Park when drivers sought The Westcombe Society expressed their OGreenwich Council’s Planning faster service for residents and the ability alternative routes, especially when other concerns to Highways about the West Department regarding the proposal to erect to handle more data. traffic-related initiatives were in train Greenwich trial which is likely to increase a 5G telecommunications mast at the inter - The Council has a specific section in its locally. traffic on Maze Hill, Vanbrugh Hill and section of Beaconsfield Road and Hardy Local Plan that relates to telecommunica - Whilst we have appreciated a traffic-free Westcombe Hill when first mooted last Road, just by the entrance to Ingleside tions development (Policy DH(c)). This Park during the current pandemic we had year but we were not invited to respond to Gardens. states that planning applications will only asked the Royal Parks to ensure that the the initial consultation. As with the clo - Looking at the image of the 18m mast be considered where: trial did not start until traffic volumes were sure of the Avenue in Greenwich Park we and cabinets, it is not surprising that neigh - i. regard has been given to locating a site back to normal (they have been much feel that the timing of the trial will not bours are extremely upset at the prospect which causes minimal visual impact sub - reduced). This was to ensure that an accu - reflect the increased traffic as businesses of such a dramatic change in outlook from ject to operational needs; rate assessment of the impact be available re-open. their windows, and the wider community for the ensuing consultation. For further details see: have also expressed their concern and ii . any proposal is sited, designed, coloured However, we now know that the trial in royalgreen wich.gov.uk/westgreenwich resentment at the adverse visual impact the and landscaped so as to minimise visual Greenwich Park started on 15th August mast would have on the Westcombe Park impact on its setting and local environ - FEEDBACK: If you experience serious and will run until February 2021. The con - Conservation Area. ment; traffic issues as a result of the above trials sultation will take place in Four days before the closing date for please complete the online surveys. Your iii. the special character and appearance of November/December which we feel will objections, neighbours staged an impromp - comments should also be copied to the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage be too soon to accurately reflect the impact tu sit-in at the proposed site to prevent ‘[email protected]’ and our local Site, Royal Greenwich's Listed Buildings, of increased traffic on Westcombe Park. contractors excavating a 1x1m hole to see councillors in order that we can understand Conservation Areas and Historic West Greenwich the level of disruption to Westcombe Park. Landscapes are preserved or enhanced; Added to this, the Royal Borough have decided to run a trial of measures to reduce iv. the possibility of sharing facilities, such as site, masts, and erecting antennae on NEW AND EXTENDED CYCLEWAYS existing buildings or other structures has WN Reporter been fully explored and demonstrated; he Council has secured funding for a along this section. v. technologies to camouflage telecommu - Tnumber of Cycle Route initiatives. A diagram of the route is available on the nications apparatus have been fully Those of most interest to our readers/resi - RBG website (although the design is not explored. dents are described below. yet complete). Greenwich Park to Shooters Hill www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/Streetspace. vi . any proposal meets International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation This cycleway is to encourage pupils to Cycleway 4 “Not on our watch” cycle to the various secondary schools The Westcombe Society are pleased to hear Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines for public exposure. along this route and to help create a better that TfL have accelerated the plans for the if there were any utilities underground. The Westcombe Society Environment environment along Old Dover Road. The Cycleway 4 route from Greenwich to The application is from Hutchison 3G Committee was among the objectors and proposed route from Greenwich Park to Woolwich including the changes to the UK Ltd (H3G) which is a British telecom - contended that the application contravenes Shooters Hill would start at Vanbrugh Gate Angerstein roundabout to ensure the safety munications and internet provider based in the Council’s telecommunications policy as and travel along Maze Hill, Vanbrugh of cyclists. They state that enabling work is Maidenhead. It provides 3G and 4G servic - its visual impact will be great and will Terrace, St John's Park, rejoining the east imminent and the main work will start on es through its own infrastructure and is adversely affect the setting and local envi - end of Old Dover Road and onwards to the mile-long extension in early now rolling out 5G services. In 2016, the ronment; it will not preserve or enhance Shooters Hill Road, ending at the junction September. EU blocked its attempt to purchase for the Conservation Area; the possibility of with Baker Road. There will be a new fully-segregated £10.25 billion the UK operations of O2 as sharing facilities has not been fully demon - As the eastern end of Old Dover Road is cycleway through the simplified junction, the takeover would reduce competition strated; it is not camouflaged. quite narrow, the council proposals include with new signals to help people walking within the UK market. H3G states the a bus gate at the bridge across the trunk and cycling navigate the junction safely road to allow only buses and cyclists to and easily. continued New and Extended Cycleways... www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/news/arti - travel east towards Shooters Hill Road. RBG have published a news story on Cycleway 4 in the borough, including cle/1677/tfl_and_greenwich_announce_fast They do not anticipate any access issues their website about TfL’s plans to extend improvements to the Angerstein round - -tracked_plans_for_major_new_cycle - for residents, businesses or street services continued...... about - way_in_southeast_london. THE COMMITTEE of THE WESTCOMBE SOCIETY << Newsbriefs > > invite you to join us for Local Licensing Laws Vanbrugh Pits Black Lives Matter Labour Party, although no political Coffee or Lunch to help raise money The Royal Borough of Greenwich Joe Beale reports that the Friends By happy coincidence, Hester motivation is thought to have been for MACMILLAN is updating its policy setting out of Vanbrugh Pits volunteer conser - Grant, wife of former resident involved. Another victim: the how it regulates businesses that vation days will be back this Thomas Grant, has published her National Trust. These incidents CANCER SUPPORT. sell or supply alcohol, provide autumn. The hope is to start at the book The Good Sharps, about underline the importance of ensur - As part of The Biggest Coffee entertainment or late-night refresh - Pits in early September, with a well-known 18th century family ing that we all keep sensitive data Morning In the World, once again we ments in the borough. Residents later event at Hyde Vale, followed that includes Granville Sharp, who secure. and local businesses can have their by others later in the year. Social played a key role in the abolition shall be holding our annual Coffee say by 25 September 2020 at roy - distancing will be the order of the of the slave trade. Unbelievably, Get a Free Sports Kit Morning at Mycenae algreenwich.gov.uk/licensingpolicy day – and please bring your own the slave trade still exists . . . Families across Royal Greenwich House Community Centre, Mycenae gloves. Dates and times to be con - have been benefitting from free Road, on Friday, 25th September 2020 Wild about wildlife firmed. Private Lives Matter sports packs to help them get The Greenwich Wildlife Advisory In a significant cyber security inci - active again after lockdown. at 10.00 am – 2.00 pm. Coffee, tea, Get Well Soon Group held an online meeting via dent, Blackbaud, database manager Each pack consists of assorted delicious homemade cakes and sand - The WN sends best wishes to Zoom on August 26th. Those tak - of Age Exchange, along with sports equipment, racquets, balls, Myles Dove, former distribution wiches will be on sale and there will ing part included representatives sundry other charities and universi - bean bags and skipping ropes. manager of the WN, for an early be a Cake Stall and Raffle too. from Greenwich Council. Issues ties, has been the victim of hack - BETTER is hoping to make fur - recovery from his recent fall. Best (Raffle to be drawn at 1.30pm) on conservation and wildlife were ing. Blackbaud has assured anyone ther sports packs available in the wishes too to Gordon Baker, discussed. A report on outcomes concerned that steps have been future. To register your interest in a For enquiries, or to offer help please former chair of the Westcombe will appear in October’s issue of taken to ensure that all the data sports pack, subject to availability, ring Caroline Owens on 0208 8530948. Society, for a speedy recovery; he the WN. hacked has been destroyed. One email Better at: This will be a socially distanced event. is currently at Tudor Grange victim, at the end of July, was the [email protected]. Nursing Home. COMMUNITY Westcombe HAPPY FIRST CENTURY FROM THIS DAY FORWARD SID! News

PUBLISHER The Westcombe Society c/o 163 Westcombe Hill, SE3 7DP or [email protected] Chair: Marilyn Little Tel: 020 8853 1312

EDITOR ur sincere congratulations go out to Anne Williams Oone of our regular readers, Sid Peters All editorial correspondence to: of Tudor Grange, who was 100 years [email protected] young this summer. He is pictured here reading his card from the Queen. He also EDITORIAL TEAM made his first Zoom chat with relatives and of course had a special cake. Polly Morgan Kathy Cullen CHARITY OF THE YEAR Diane Blackwell NAMED Jo Burand ALL PRESS he charity Advocacy Now was pro - MATERIAL TO BE SENT TO: Tposed as The Westcombe Society's [email protected] rganising a wedding amidst a global number of friends who could attend was Charity of the Year 2020/21 at the AGM Deadline for October copy: Opandemic was full of unexpected 30, and that included our vendors on 24th August. It was agreed by those twists and turns. What was and was not (photographer, videographer, etc) 16th September 2020 attending. permitted seemed to change daily. Our Government guidelines prevented us Advocacy Now has been active in original date had to be cancelled due to the from holding a ‘large reception’ following SUB EDITOR Greenwich since 1996 working with adults government lockdown. When the govern - the ceremony, so we made our way to Annie Grey over 18 who feel they need support and ment allowed weddings our original venue Greenwich Park for a celebratory picnic. advice on matters affecting their lives. could not help us so we lost our deposit Friends and family who had just attended ENVIRONMENT Advocacy promotes social inclusion, and were without a venue. The search for a our wedding brought their own hamper and equality and social justice Editor: Maggie Gravelle new wedding venue then began! We found a socially distanced space near us. Advocacy is an indépendant charity All comments and queries to secured the Queen’s House only eight days Dan was born in Dulwich and grew up offering advocacy support to people living Emily Norton: 0208 853 2756 before our wedding day. just off the New Cross Road. Haley Crabb in the RBG and surrounding area. The environment The ceremony took place outdoors, is from Oregon, on the west coast of USA . service is free and completely confidential. under the colonnades. The maximum Advocacy would match fund the money donated by The Westcombe Society and ADVERTISING A SAD FAREWELL TO... NEVILLE’S use it as a contribution towards the salary Gavin Hose RISING STAR cost of a new part-time post to run drop-in [email protected] e are sorry to record the death in sessions at Mycenae House and two Deadline for Advertising: WJuly of Gordon Borsberry, a member n August, Neville Grant received his Health Centres in SE3. 10th September 2020 of the Westcombe Society who lived in ILifetime Achievement Award in This resource would provide a valuable Glenluce Road. He was a modest man Woolwich Town Hall from the Mayor, Cllr service for local people seeking help, as who seldom talked about his service in Linda Bird. He was accompanied by his well as using the sessions to train new Word War II. DISTRIBUTION wife Jane, and older son Thomas. "I felt volunteers. Gordon travelled the length of Italy very honoured," said Neville. Emily Norton and volunteers while serving with his unit, the Royal Tel: 020 8853 2756 GOOD COMPANY Signals, as a messenger in the war and it was at that time that he developed his love o you like living in a safe neighbour - PRINTING of Italy and all things Italian. He had vivid Dhood that looks after its streets, trees, Trojan Press memories of being billeted in Caserta our vulnerable citizens? Like the idea of Email: [email protected] Palace in Southern Italy and of riding his having local community events to make www.trojanpress.com motor bike around the deserted palazzo in friends for the whole family, network? Sienna. He couldn’t wait to return when Would like to add your voice to an already The views expressed in the Westcombe the war was over, much to the horror of established and effective environmental News are not necessarily those of the his parents! Our deepest condolences to group that lobbies local politicians, local Westcombe Society or of the Editor. Malcolm and Kay. Neville Gran t businesses, the council? We take all reasonable precautions to pro - But don’t have the time, or contacts? tect the interests of our readers by ensur - CHANGE OF DATE Why not let us to the hard work... it is why ing as far as possible the bona fides of our the Westcombe Society was formed. For advertisers but cannot accept any respon - The Westcombe Society’s just £12 per family, £8 for an individual sibility for them. Any complaints should be Chrysanthemum Tea for the and £4 for a senior citizen you can buy addressed to the advertiser. some peace of mind that you are contribut - elderly will now be on 10th ing a little something to a bigger picture of To access back numbers (in colour) go to: October. Invitations will be sent healthy community living. http://www.westcombesociety.org/west out at the end of September. Now you can give, ‘contribute to my combenews community’ on your ‘to-do’ list - a big tick. Views expressed are not necessarily those of either Letters the Westcombe Society, or the Westcombe News . Westcombe society membership Dear Sir or Madam, full price for my lunch would I years of this period particularly at completely out of keeping in what Today having checked that The have been victim of FRAUD by The Standard where I now do is supposed to be a conservation please send this membership form to: Royal Grill is still on the the business and or the almost all shopping. area. christine Legg, 69 mycenae road, Government’s ‘Eat out to Help out Government? As I shuffle along with a I very much hope that this pro - London, se3 7se Website’ What about other customers who ‘walker’ people offer help with posal will not be accepted. In any I set out for my lunch at my have paid full price but later find opening spring-loaded doors. look case, it is supposed to serve new Name...... favourite local restaurant, ordered the café was in the scheme? out for traffic, ask if I’m ok or 5G technology. Heaven only my lunch and arranged to pay at Many customers may have been need help loading the walker into knows if and when such technolo - Address...... the till. But when I enquired about happy to go there, happy that the the back of my car. gy will be commonly used - or the 50% discount I was told they restaurant was not in the scheme So “thank you” to all these even if it is absolutely necessary, ...... were not in the scheme. I was told and pay the full price knowing the anonymous people who renew my given the horrendous costs they did apply but wished to with - café would be more comfortable faith in human nature. involved . tel...... draw, but hadn’t been unable to and less busy. From G Bailey. Westcombe Park From Alice, Ruthin Road unsubscribe. Yours Sincerely, Road In the next edition of the email...... Are they allowed to join The Dr David F Senior Parkside, SE3 I was horrified at the proposal by Westcombe News, please thank the Scheme and decide to unilaterally From Gabi Marston, Coleraine Rd, Hutchinson to erect an eighteen- convenience store by the Station. Please enclose payment as appropriate: withdraw? I have lived in Coleraine Road for metre communications mast at the They have kept the shop open In the great scheme of things it just over 60 years and would like junction of Beaconsfield and Hardy despite one of them being Family membership £12 [ ] was a minor irritation on a very hot to convey my gratitude to local Roads, on the site of a small park. vulnerable. individual membership £8 [ ] day. I left and went elsewhere for people for their consideration and The mast would dwarf the senior citizens/Unwaged £4 [ ] lunch. If I had stayed and paid the offers of help during the latter houses nearby and would be 2 Westcombe News September 2020 LOCAL NEWS MAKING STREETS SAFER FOR CHILDREN NO TOXIC TUNNEL Neville Grant reenwich Council has initiated a Dr Fidler is of course sympathetic to the GSchool Street Scheme in parts of the need to keep school children safe, but borough to encourage safe, active and sus - these proposals are seriously detrimental to tainable travel to school. Experimental her children. She suggests that the barriers Traffic Regulation Orders allow streets to should be installed just down the hill from be closed to motor vehicles at drop-off and Invicta Road, where the area outside pick-up times. Crown Roofing would provide an ample The scheme means that School Streets turning circle. become pedestrian and cycle-only zones The School Streets team responded that during term time from 8.00am to 9:30am they realised The Montessori Education for and from 3.00pm to 4.00pm. During these Autism (MEfA) was a charity – but had times a road will be closed to motor vehi - not realised that it was an educational unit cles by collapsible bollards operated by the when they looked at the area. Their under - school. standing was that MEfA is located on School staff are available to allow access Westcombe Hill and not within the School for emergency vehicles and blue badge Street closure itself; and pointed out that xtinction Rebellion activists have boarded a drilling rig in the middle of the Thames holders. Local residents are encouraged to families attending the Montessori are able Eat North Greenwich, which had begun preparatory work for the Silvertown Tunnel. avoid coming and going during the to park in parking bays in the surrounding They have hung a banner saying No Toxic Tunnel. closures; they can contact the school in roads, including Westcombe Hill. emergencies. Later, the School Streets team con - GREENWICH Following local consultations, the firmed that MEfA was not consulted before TEA HUT UPDATE scheme is being launched in Invicta and the scheme was implemented, but that offi - NEIGHBOURHOOD Siebert Roads. However, it is not clear how cers have since communicated with them. GROWTH FUND ollowing the terrible accident to the widely local residents were consulted. They point out that if the closure Blackheath Tea Hut in January, the wards for the third round of the F The Montessori Education Trust oper - barriers were moved further into Siebert owner, Adam Furze addressed the annual Greenwich Neighbourhood Growth ates a school on the corner of Siebert Road Road it would encourage drivers to enter A public meeting of the Blackheath Joint Fund have just been announced. This and Westcombe Hill. Wendy Fidler, this section to drop off children, and high Working Party (BJWP) in February to out - money derives from the Community Director of the Trust and Head of the risk situations would be created by cars line the various possibilities for the future. Infrastructure Levy which is paid on all School, seems not to have been consulted. turning round – precisely what the School These included a new design, close to the developments above a certain size. This She told the WN: “This scheme creates Streets scheme is designed to avoid. original site but also the possibility of year £630,639 was made available. Of this problems for us, because access to our The team would encourage Montessori moving the business across the road to the just over £400,000 has been awarded to school is by means of the gates in Siebert staff to avoid the operational times of the small boarded-up building next to the pond projects in the Greenwich area. Road.” scheme when arriving and departing. near the park gate (see picture below). The list of successful Greenwich proj - Staff arrive from about 8:30am. They are However, should emergencies can arise, This was discussed by the BJWP at a ects is below and we await further details: not able to leave vulnerable children in Montessori can be given a key for the virtual meeting in June, when the mem - - Blackheath Halls £40,000. order to move cars around parking bays. lockable bollards to enable this access. Dr bers, including the Councillors from both - Mycenae House Vanbrugh Community Many families have vulnerable children Fidler thought that this might be a work - Greenwich and Lewisham gave unanimous Association. £232,750. This is a project to with serious mobility issues. The provision able solution. support to the latter proposal. improve access to the space. of the disabled parking bay is vital, and However, this may not be the end of the Adam Furze, is keen to re-start the busi - - New Capital Quay Community Club being able to park in Siebert Road, is of story. The School programme has been ness as soon as possible as the staff have £9,468. inestimable value. It enables children to implemented as a trial, allowing the been unable to work for the past six - The Bridge Playground Development access the school without needing to navi - council to collect feedback and review how months. East Greenwich £38,116. Meets at East gate the traffic on Westcombe Hill. it is working. They will then decide Discussions are continuing with officers Greenwich Pleasaunce “Our school groups take place at various whether to keep the scheme or modify it. and Councillors from both Greenwich and - Christchurch School Community Garden times during the day, whilst after school To find out more readers should visit Lewisham about the long-term plans for £11,388. Intended to improve facilities for groups commence at 3.30pm – all times royalgreenwich.gov.uk/schoolstreets the Tea Hut but, in the meantime, food growing, gardening and wildlife which coincide with road closures,” she Lewisham has agreed a temporary licence - Community in Rothbury Hall Emergency said. for a trailer van close to the site of the old Exit Arts £31,155.(Part Funded) Tea Hut. A suitable vehicle is currently - Accessibility for All Forum@greenwich being refurbished and should be able to THE CAMERAS ARE COMING £45,000 start supplying refreshments soon. - Wild Play at Greenwich Peninsula he Royal Borough of Greenwich is on: Adam and his team have now had access Ecology Park and Southern Park The Land introducing a network of CCTV royalgreenwich.gov.uk/cctvenforcement. to the building on the Greenwich side and T Trust £25,134. enforcement cameras to enforce a range of These include: discussions are underway as to whether or Projects that were shortlisted in Round moving traffic contraventions. The move - Driving in bus lanes not this might prove to be a viable option. 3, but have not been prioritised for fund - will discourage illegal driving behaviour - Stopping in yellow box junctions We are pleased to report that the staff ing will automatically be put forward for and help to reduce congestion, increase - Ignoring banned turns and no-entry signs member who was injured is making good consideration in Round 4. Funds from road safety and improve air quality. - Driving the wrong way in one-way progress at home. areas where there has been an underspend Warning notices will be issued for a peri - streets. The driver responsible for the accident is will be re-allocated to Area 4 (Woolwich). od of two weeks from Monday 24th The council will also be able to enforce now being prosecuted for dangerous driv - August. If you get a warning notice you parking contraventions, such as parking on ing and will appear at Bexley Magistrates will not have to pay a fine. After two ‘keep clear’ markings outside schools and MEET OUR NEW Court in October. Blackheath Society weeks, enforcement will begin and Penalty illegal parking at bus stops. MAYOR Charge Notices (PCNs) will be issued. Moving traffic offences, previously As part of this introduction, if you enforced by the police and transferring this he Mayor of the receive a PCN you’ll now be able to view responsibility to the council will enable the TRoyal Borough of CCTV video footage or still images of the police to focus more resources on combat - Greenwich for 2020 offence online. A list of signs and restric - ing and reducing crime in the borough. to 2021 is Councillor tions which CCTV can enforce is available Linda Bird. Linda was born and raised in Kingston !"#$%&'%()*+ Upon Hull before !"#$%&'(͗ƐĞůĞĐƟŽŶŽĨŽŶĞďĞĚƌŽŽŵƌĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚĂƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚƐ& moving to the bor - ough in 1980, where Pic: Neville Grant she raised her children and ran a successful dance company called A & A LANDSCAPES Greenwich Youth Landscape Specialists Dance. In her lifetime, Linda has also been a Free advice & Qualified headteacher, and has estimates horticulturalist dƵĚŽƌ'ƌĂŶŐĞ͕ϭϭϰtĞƐƚĐŽŵďĞWĂƌŬZŽĂĚ͕ůĂĐŬŚĞĂƚŚ͕>KEKE͕^ϯϳZ& dƵĚŽƌ'ƌĂŶŐĞŝƐĂƉŽƉƵůĂƌ͕ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚůŝǀŝŶŐƌĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ͖ƉĞƌĨĞĐƚ taught PE and dance ĨŽƌƚŚŽƐĞƐĞĞŬŝŶŐĂƉƌŝǀĂƚĞŚŽŵĞůŝĨĞǁŚŝůƐƚďĞŝŶŐǁŝƚŚŝŶĞĂƐLJƌĞĂĐŚŽĨ All aspects of soft & hard landscaping /ŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚ>ŝǀŝŶŐZĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚƐ ůĂĐŬŚĞĂƚŚ͕'ƌĞĞŶǁŝĐŚ͕ůŽĐĂůƐŚŽƉƐ͕ĂŵĞŶŝƟĞƐĂŶĚƚƌĂŶƐƉŽƌƚůŝŶŬƐ͘ lessons in schools all over London. ;ůĞĂƐĞŚŽůĚƉƌŽƉĞƌƟĞƐͲƐĞƌǀŝĐĞĐŚĂƌŐĞƐĂƉƉůLJͿ &ĂĐŝůŝƟĞƐŝŶĐůƵĚĞ͗^ĞĐƵƌĞĞŶƚƌLJƐLJƐƚĞŵ͕ϮϰŚŽƵƌƉƉĞůůŽŵŽŶŝƚŽƌŝŶŐƐLJƐƚĞŵ͕ work carried out including ŚƵďďĂůĂƌŵƉĞŶĚĂŶƚ͕ůŝŌ͕ĐĂƌƉĂƌŬ͕ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞĚŐĂƌĚĞŶƐ͕ĨƵůůLJƌĞĨƵƌďŝƐŚĞĚ Linda stood for council in 2014 and was )*$&++,-./$,$01/21-.$*+$3*$4,5/$,$./-/+,6$/-781+9:& ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚƐ͛ůŽƵŶŐĞͬŬŝƚĐŚĞŶĞƩĞ͕ĞŶͲƐƵŝƚĞŐƵĞƐƚƌŽŽŵ͘dŚĞ,ŽƵƐĞDĂŶĂŐĞƌŽǀĞƌͲ * Maintenance *Site clearance ƐĞĞƐƚŚĞĚĂLJƚŽĚĂLJƌƵŶŶŝŶŐŽĨdƵĚŽƌ'ƌĂŶŐĞ;DŽŶĚĂLJƚŽ&ƌŝĚĂLJͿ͘ elected by the people of Eltham North &&,%++&-.$)+/&0100&234&5612&& * Turfing * Tree surgery ǁǁǁ͘ŐŽůĚƐďŽƌŽƵŐŚĞƐƚĂƚĞƐ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬͬŐŽůĚƐďŽƌŽƵŐŚĞƐƚĂƚĞƐΛŚŽƵƐŝŶŐϮϭ͘ŽƌŐ͘ƵŬ ŐĞƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚ͗ϲϬ;ƐŚŽƵůĚĂĐŽƵƉůĞŽĐĐƵƉLJ͕ŽŶĞƉĞƌƐŽŶŵĂLJďĞƵŶĚĞƌϲϬͿ&& Ward. She is also a member of the * Fencing * Patios &66$;+*;/+31/<$=8++/-369$$>*+$<,6/$=,-$,6<*$?/$>*8-@$*-$#1.A34*0/ Planning Board, the Fostering Panel, and * Brickwork

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Westcombe News September 2020 3 FEATURES

LITTER, LITTER EVERYWHERE Anne Williams GREENING THE GREY & CLEANING s lockdown eased people gathered lem. “The council need to empty the street UP CRIME Debra Blundell Aoutside on the green spaces for picnics bins more often”. he said. When I suggest - or too long, the streetscape around trying to fix some of those windows.” and left something ugly behind. Litter, mis - ed asking for a bigger bin near his shop he FDelacourt Road at the far end of Old Over time, cleaning and beautifying the shapen, brightly coloured, torn, shiny, dull, shook his head. “No it will just get filled Dover Rd has been in decline. Its business - area will, he hopes, help. Ginkgo will con - all being moved around the grass on the with dumpster’s rubbish.” es and residents regularly encounter litter, tinue to work with its neighbours, commu - breeze. Why? Too lazy to walk to the bins So why do some of us think our litter is pollution and anti-social behaviour. Now, nity policing and neighbourhood watch to which, ‘are overflowing anyway mum’. someone’s else’s problem? Why do others, local business Ginkgo Financial is doing deter crime. “I’ve been able to share ‘Why don’t they take it home with them?’ driving by in cars, throw their rubbish out something about it, with an initiative that it CTV footage with the police several say the local observers and critics, ‘it’s of the window like the world outside is one hopes will improve the environment, deter times,” he said. “Recently, I recorded a car their rubbish!’ big litter bin? Is it a psychological issue, a crime and build links with the community. theft in action with a clear registration In response, the badly littered Greenwich repressed anger perhaps of a psyche ‘dis - “In the two years we’ve been here, plate. The police were able to recover a Park had banners printed and fixed beside appointed with its life’, being acted out by we’ve had two attempted break-ins, drunks fellow trader’s stolen car the same day.” the social distancing ones. ‘This is a Park, dumping their crap on others to spoil using our car park as a toilet, an aban - What’s next? not a toilet or a rubbish bin. Please another’s day? My dog is delighted when doned van, regular fly-tipping and daily The hope is that Grow with Ginkgo respect this space, plan ahead and take we come across bumper bags of mostly rubbish to deal with,” says Daren becomes a wider community initiative. We your litter home with you’ . I don’t know eaten McDonalds or a collection of KFC Wallbank, owner of the financial planning would love to work with other traders and about you but I could feel the Park’s pain. gnawed chicken bones. But I can’t feel her business and a Westcombe Park resident. residents to improve the whole of Its cry reminded me of the Elephant Man joy. “Not to mention noise and pollution Delacourt Road. Eventually, also we’d like when he screamed in frustration, “I am Before Covid-19 happened the council from the A102. Enough was enough. My to adopt other unloved corners around human being!” But still the litter got left had started the process of changing their wife is passionate about gardening and the Blackheath Standard and work with local behind. rubbish collection schedules. They were environment. It was her idea to tackle both schools and community projects. In the end it is was the park’s staff along going to pick up less often and planned to problems by making Delacourt Road a “Ultimately, we want to be good neigh - with volunteer groups who cleared the rub - remove the dog waste bins in the local nicer place to work and live in.” bours,” Daren sums up. “Blackheath Royal bish from the defaced green spaces restor - council parks. Plans that are obviously Greening the Grey Standard is a fabulous place and we just ing their natural harmonious state again. going in the wrong direction as there is no The couple named the initiative Grow with want to give something back.” The council put notices on the bins urg - evidence that waste is reducing, on the Ginkgo. It kicked off with a (socially-dis - To find out more about Grow with ing the public to take their rubbish home contrary it’s increasing both in supermar - tanced) gardening day, when the team Ginkgo or get involved, visit with them. Believing it’s the public’s litter kets and the packaging that comes with planted a border of grasses and wildflow - ginkgofinancial.com/grow and therefore not the council’s responsibili - online shopping. Plus take-aways are ers around the firm’s offices on the corner Visitors to the office at 2 Delacourt Road ty. Which is ironic really as many local becoming the most popular way to eat. of Old Dover Road and Delacourt Road, can pick up a planting list and a free pack - shop keepers and home owners believe it’s Covid -19 has highlighted the public’s along with native scented climbers along et of seeds to grow at home. the council responsibility to clear up, in attitude to their own litter - they don’t the fence that separates the road from the return for the high rates and council taxes care for it! If we are to learn the lessons of polluted A102. they are charged. pandemic living, then this surely is one the “Plants make people happier and Raj from the corner shop in Westcombe council could take note of. healthier,” says Daren. “We’ve chosen Hill says he has always dealt with the litter I’m left with the thoughts of involvement drought-tolerant species that will encour - problem outside or near his shop by pick - and responsibility… should we be going to age wildlife, fight pollution and help with ing it up himself and binning it. “If the source and rethinking packaging complete - surface water drainage. Even our new bin drain is blocked I unblock it. This is a nice ly? Only bio-degradable packaging with a store is green. The fact that it looks beauti - neighbourhood, with lots of trees, why zero tolerance policy? At least then we ful is a bonus.” aren’t people more proud about where they know Nature will help us out in the full - Environment Champions live, why don’t they want to keep it litter ness of time. In the meantime perhaps we Littering and fly-tipping is also a huge free?” The words ‘involvement’ and can all become Environmental Champions problem in the area – especially discarded ‘responsibility’ came to mind as I listen to and big-heartedly give the council and the nitrous oxide cannisters. We have joined his frustration with a long-standing prob - parks a helping hand. Royal Greenwich’s Environment Champion scheme. Staff, equipped with litter pickers and hi-vis jackets, will be carrying out a daily clean-up. Broken Window Theory WAXING Thanks to its secluded site, Delacourt Rd has also become a magnet for anti-social LYRICAL AS behaviour, including property and vehicle THE BEER thefts, daytime drinking and even drug FLOWS dealing. Daren dressed as an RBG Environment The pubs are open at last Champion. He's holding part of a bike AGAIN “We subscribe to the broken window We've come to the end of a fast theory of crime,” said Daren. “If a broken frame was dumped. Don't hold your breath, window isn’t immediately replaced, people If any reader would like to become an It's not normal yet, Environtment Champion then contact RGB Sinead Paull feel an area isn’t cared for and therefore The queues for the bar will be vast. they can do what they like there. So we’re Council for your free hi-vis jacket and litter stick and join in the litter parties! Grant Saw Wealth Management Limited

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4 Westcombe News September 2020 WHAT TO DO

GO FOR AN URBAN BIKE RIDE AND BEYOND Jo Burand SING FOR FUN Polly Morgan oolwich Singers is a successful com - musicians, these can be fulfilled!” ith restrictions easing and TfL cal points and railings almost disappear Wmunity choir that usually meets in “We sing widely, out and about in vari - Wsplashing out on a host of cycle allowing the water to lap at your feet, Woolwich. It was set up eight years ago by ous venues in Woolwich and the Royal highways I've been oiling up the chain and across from where huge guillotine-like Wendy Young, a teacher who lives in Borough of Greenwich - anywhere there’s discovering just how far you can get from flood gates hold back tributaries. Kent Eltham. The choir is still run by Wendy, a a space, we’ve almost certainly been! Greenwich on two wheels. can't quite decide whether its urban or group of trustees and led by professional “We’ve been lucky enough to perform Cycling east besides the Thames, Canary rural, historic or modern? Going beyond musicians. in a mass choir on the pitch at the London Wharf is soon a distant set of shapes above Erith to Dartford will take you down foot - The idea behind the choir was ‘Sing for Stadium (Olympic Stadium) for the Rugby a foggy horizon, the Thames widens to paths lined with blackberries but will soon Fun’ and requires no audition to join. League World Cup. In 2018 the choir sang allow migrating birds and seals sanctuary force you on to busy A roads. For Wendy describes the ethos behind her in Covent Garden at the Brandenburg below curved spaceship-looking factories. guidance, follow NCN1 signs from choir, as: “To enable people Choral Festival and also took Concrete enclaves and cannons guard criti - Greenwich foot tunnel. from a cross-section of the local part in the Greenwich + ‘I COULD DO THAT!’ community and from all walks Docklands International of life, whose paths may not Festival.” he Conservatoire in Blackheath is re- (bread is so two months ago); followed by otherwise cross, to sing their All members of the choir Topening in September for individual Mixed Media in which we'll be exploring hearts out together.” believe that singing promotes tuition and group classes in music, art and the techniques of Matisse, Hoch, Blake and Wendy’s professional back - their mental health and wellbe - drama (and also keeping some online Bearden and their 'mixed' use of 'media'. ground was in marketing and ing, Wendy adds: “Singing offerings, after last term went so well). Online, Simon is teaching How To Use tourism before going onto teach lifts you up and makes you So if the desire to develop your artistic Colour Online and Painting Techniques & English as a second language to happy!” skills is something Covid has taught you, Materials Online after they were particular - adults, an ESOL teacher. She Woolwich Singers currently then why not try out a course here? They ly enjoyed by students last term; and said: “My marketing experience meet online using the video have some fabulous short art courses - so Victoria will be running Drawing Projects helped me mentally not to give conferencing facility, Zoom, you can just put your toe in the water for a Online, a mixed level course suitable for up at the first hurdle. And teach - Wendy Young every Wednesday evening at taster. For adults this term Botanical beginners and those with more experience ing ESOL played a role too as, 6.30pm, and Wendy encour - Illustration is back (great for immortalising wanting to further develop their drawing with a little persuasion, five or six of my ages all readers of Westcombe News to anything you had time to grow in lock - skills. students came to the first choir rehearsal come and join them online and, when they down); Pen & Ink Illustration will do with one becoming a trustee!” can meet again in person, in Woolwich exactly what it says on the box (the box T: 020 8852 0234 E: When asked what drove her to want to Town Hall. Wendy said: “Our rehearsals being one that you could illustrate with pen [email protected] set up a community choir, she replied: “I combine the love and joy of singing with and ink in this class!); a new course in @TheConservatoire @ConservatoireSE had been watching the TV series The Choir finding time to have a good laugh together. Papermaking could be your introduction to www.conservatoire.org.uk @blackheath - with Gareth Malone and feeling the joy of We are a friendly choir so why don’t you a new love of creating things yourself conservatoire how singing was bringing people together. come and give Woolwich Singers a try?” The pivotal moment came when I saw With the latest government guidelines or the little ones, there will be online offerings of Tiny Tots (6-18 months), Toddler Gareth Malone himself take to the streets announced that choirs can now meet in Tunes (18-36 months) and Little Maestros (3-4 years) alongside their live counter - F and start handing out leaflets as he tried to person, Woolwich Singers hope to be able parts, in case you're not ready to join us in the building yet, don't live close by or just start his own community choir from to meet again in Woolwich Town Hall want to be able to do the lessons on your own schedule! scratch - that’s when I knew I could do from September. Junior Choir (6-8 years) and Training Choir (9-13 years) are also going digital, as are that!” Interested in joining Woolwich Singers all of our Theory Plus! classes, so you can brush up your lines and dots from home. Professional opera singer, clarinettist and or want to try a session? Email Wendy: RIVER CHARITY WALK FOR MACMILLAN pianist, Benjie del Rosario currently leads [email protected] the choir and is their resident pianist. W/site: http://www.woolwichsingers.co.uk/ Diane Blackwell Wendy said: “It is very important that Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/wool - ut on those walking shoes and join us While there are likely to be a few well- Woolwich Singers are led by professional wichsingers for The Westcombe Society’s annual signposted diversions where we weave our P musicians, particularly musicians that are walk raising money for Macmillan Cancer way through shiny new apartment blocks community-minded as they know how to Support. and past lovely old signs telling us we are bring out the voices and at the same time All being 115 miles from Dover and 110 miles from how to enthuse, cajole and bring fun to the well Covid- Oxford, we mostly hug the river, seeing singers. Woolwich Singers has great wise, we’ll be Canary Wharf in all its splendour from all aspirations and with professional gathering at angles. the main bot - The walk is suitable for adults and ZOOM DATE tom entrance children, almost all on the flat, and it can STOP THE SILVERTOWN TUNNEL COALITION to Greenwich take as long as you want it to. Strolling n Thursday 17th September, at campaign. They will put some suggestions Park by King leisurely, stopping for coffee and to take in O7.00pm, they will have a zoom call to about setting up working groups (e.g. for William Walk the views, maybe having a pub lunch will coordinate action against the tunnel by all coordination, direct action, community out - at 9am on add up to a lovely morning. We won’t be organisations, and to consider further reach, political lobbying) and will wel - 20th far from public transport anywhere on the actions by the Stop the Silvertown Tunnel come volunteers for these. A zoom link for September for walk so if you don’t want to go as far as coalition. They welcome reports of your this event will be circulated a few days in what promis - The Globe, catch a bus back ….or retrace actions, and proposals for stepping up the advance. es to be your steps back to Greenwich. another really There is a £10 subscription per person Trojan enjoyable way to help this most worthy of for this walk, 100% of which goes to charities. Macmillan. Please do feel free to also do The route is along the south side of the your own fund raising. A bottle of water Press Thames. We walk past Cutty Sark, turn will be supplied. left and wind around the glorious Thames We’ll of course need to be alert and through maintain social distancing parks and as much as possible. We We are docks, can be in “bubbles” of sculptures, friends/family which now statues, the should not take away from open to Brunel the fun and the fresh air. Museum at To book your place please print Rotherhithe call Caroline Owens on and historic 020 8853 0948 or email • B USINESS CARDS • F LYERS old pubs like Caroline at r.c.owens • I NVOICES • L ETTERHEADS the flower- @btintern et.com • B OOKS • B ROCHURES festooned the Dog and • C ALENDARS • F ORMS • Bell and the olde-worlde Mayflower. Just INVITES • O RDER OF SERVICES in time for morning coffee we arrive at • P ROGRAMMES the delightful Surrey Docks Farm, where a recently-opened café (no public toilets 1a Lizban st alas) looks out over the Thames. A cuppa blackheath, London se3 8ss and a peek at the farm’s menagerie of animals are a welcome tonic before we tel: 020 8853 2268 head on towards Tower Bridge, and ulti - mately the world-reknowned Globe email: [email protected] Theatre. In all it’s about 6.5-7 miles give www.trojanpress.com or take a diversion or two.

Westcombe News September 2020 5 FEATURES

A VICTORIA SANDWICH ANYONE? ZOOMING IN ... OR OUT? Paul Clayton s part of The Biggest Coffee Morning have already formed a baking partnership oom is everywhere at the moment, it’s your specific device. AIn the World in aid of Macmillan and in the summer had a stall on the corner Z‘the thing’ that many people are using Joining in: Zoom’s popular usage can be Cancer Support , The Westcombe of Foyle Road and Westcombe Park Road to go to church, attend a meeting or even found in the ease of joining a meeting; the Society will be holding their annual Coffee where they sold their home-made biscuits get together with friends while in quaran - host of the chat sends you an email with Morning at Mycenae House Community and bread. They made £63.53 and donated tine. Whatever your thoughts, being able to the details of when the meeting is, includ - Centre. the money to Great Ormond Street chat with people via video can be useful ing a clickable ‘link’ (generally blue in Hospital. “I go there for check-ups”, Vasi and alleviate loneliness too. It is good to colour) to start up the app. If there is a said. stay calm with something new. Getting mention of a password, make a note. In the future Amayah and Vasi hope to stressed will make learning harder. Don’t Otherwise, there is a meeting number you get more serious with their venture and panic! can use. turn it into a business. Vasi is saving up for Let’s start with essentials: Finishing a meeting: the host can finish a camera and Amayah a laptop. Have you got a suitable device, is the soft - the chat for you, so don’t worry about this ware installed? It does mean a trip to your either. Below pic: Amayah (left) and Vasi getting App or Play store if you’ve got a smart Top tips: busy (and messy) in the kitchen phone or tablet device. Good news is that * Don’t put yourself in front of a bright Last years cakes selection pic Neville Grant its a few button presses away. Laptop users window (making a shadow), it looks like Vasi Nesterenko and Amayah need to download the app via the Zoom you’re on the run from the police! Use a Gordon-Shirley both 10 years old website (https://zoom.us). If you don’t light from the side. and classmates at Invicta School, have any device to get online, then ask for * If your internet speed is letting you down will be making a classic Victoria the phone number and code to join in at and making communication hard, some - Sponge cake for the event. “Because the appropriate time. times it can help by turning your video off. the last one we made didn’t turn out After it’s installed: take some time to * Sometimes conversations overlap as we so well and I know we can do bet - start investigating a few things, pressing on don’t see the cues to talk, so pace yourself ter”, Amayah says. “Yes, and we the screen (while the app is working) of - you can raise a real or virtual hand. There will fill it with buttercream and use your portable device will bring up is also the option to send messages! some of my grandmother’s home- audio/video options. Computers have an If you want to know more, or have any made jam!” Vasi adds. options button like a cog. Audio on/off tech questions in these 21st century times, These two enterprising students looks like an old microphone, the video get in touch with Deborah Fitzpatrick at button looks like an old-style projector - Mycenae House for a chance to chat with For enquiries, or to offer help with the Macmillan Coffee morning please ring some meetings will put you in a ‘waiting Paul at a Wednesday afternoon Techy Time Caroline Owens on 0208 8530948. room’ before the meeting starts, this is an meet up. [email protected] opportunity to check your audio. 020 8858 1749 | 90 Mycenae Road, LOOKING FOR WORK? There are YouTube videos on these top - Blackheath, London, SE3 7SE f you’re a Royal Greenwich resident work. They provide free careers advice and ics, make sure that you’re searching for Ilooking for work, retraining or an employment support and can help long- apprenticeship, then Greenwich Local time unemployed people find a job that’s BEAUTY IN THE EYE OF A GASHOLDER Labour and Business (GLLaB) might be right for them. ndustrial heritage is an unglamorous but remains and is on the site of the proposed able to help you. It seems this organisation is truly dedi - Isignificant part of local history and part Silvertown Tunnel . GLLaB works in partnership with a cated to finding jobs for local people and of it is about to disappear. The last remain - A planning application for the tunnel range of local organisations and employers has a wealth of experience to draw upon ing gasholder on Greenwich Peninsula is includes reference to the proposed archaeo - and is well suited to matching local people since their creation in 1996. GLLaB was being demolished. logical investigation but is mainly con - with job opportunities. Depending on your set up on the site of the Millennium Dome In the 1880s the site had two very large cerned with Roman and pre-Roman evi - need, GLLaB can help with writing an as it was being built to maximise opportu - and innovative gasholders. Together they dence and largely ignores the more recent effective CV, retraining or up-skilling and nities for local employment, mainly in made up the largest concentration of gas industrial heritage. Mary Mills, a local finding apprenticeships. construction, before expanding into many storage known at the time. industrial heritage campaigner and an Cllr Denise Scott-McDonald, Deputy other employment sectors. East Greenwich 1, built in 1886, held expert on the history of the area, argues Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy Once job-seekers are signed up with nearly 9 million cubic feet of gas. The sec - that the gasholder is "part of our heritage – and Skills said: “GLLaB was established GLLaB - and a good way to do this is to ond was even larger before an explosion in and surely we should celebrate the engi - in Royal Greenwich and is a well-known fill in the online form - a weekly jobs bul - 1917. It was damaged again by the neering expertise of our ancestors and take and respected service among employers in letin is sent out to galvanise and inspire Provisional IRA in 1979, after which it the opportunity to find out more about it the borough. GLLaB really understand the jobseekers to continue their quest for was demolished in 1986. But the tank and not just dig it up". local job market, putting them in an excel - work. However troubled the job markets lent position to support local jobseekers.” appear to be, GLLaB will help and support If you’re a resident looking for your next you all the way. job, your first job or looking to learn new Phone: 020 8921 2440 skills, I’d encourage you to get in touch Email: [email protected] with GLLaB” Website: GLLaB also works with people with https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/xfp/for disabilities who are looking for accessible m/484

Above pic : Blackwall Lan, date unknown, probably c.1910. Part of MAN & VAN a set of post - cards. Collections Deliveries Below pic: & House Clearances Interior shot of No.2. holder For a polite & prompt service being cleared after the please contact: explosion. This is part of Edward on a set of pic - 0208 301 5303 or tures now in 07906 169705 the possession of National Grid Archive

6 Westcombe News September 2020 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 may also be viewed on www. ENVIRONMENT greenwich.gov.uk/planning

KEEP OUR TREES SAFE Maggie Gravelle The London Marathon But Not As We Know It utumn is a peak time for tree work which case work may be prevented or Aand tree surgeons, genuine and other - there may be conditions applied; or not put nsurprisingly, Covid -19 has had an the mass race is scheduled for Sunday 3rd wise, will be advertising their services. A a TPO on but allow the work to go ahead; Uimpact on the London Marathon. October on the usual route. This gives the professional will be aware of the regula - or allow the six week period to elapse after This had already been postponed from longest possible time for its successful tions which protect which the work can go ahead. In April to October 2020 and a press release return. trees in Conservation addition she can impose a Tree on 6th August confirmed the arrangements “The London Marathon is far more than Areas, which includes Replacement Order, whether or for the 40th Race scheduled for 4th just a marathon,” said Hugh Brasher, Event most of the Westcombe not there is a TPO. This requires October this year. But it will not take place Director of the Virgin Money London Park area. the applicant to replace the tree in the usual way. Marathon. “It brings society together in a Under the 1990 with a suitable species. Races for elite runners and wheelchair moment of celebration of all that is good Town and Country The local authority carries a list athletes will take place on an enclosed, about humanity. We believe that Sunday Planning Act, Section of trees with TPOs. looped course in St James’s Park in a 4th October will be a London Marathon 211, all proposed tree Failure to comply with these secure 'biosphere'. There will be no specta - like no other, and the 40th Race will take work in a Conservation regulations is an offence liable to tors but will be media coverage throughout the spirit of the world’s greatest marathon Area, with very few a fine of up to £20,000 or, in the the day and times will be eligible for to every corner of the globe, with runners exceptions, must be most serious cases, trial in a Olympic qualification. raising vital funds for the charities that notified to the local Crown Court with a possible Everyone with a place in the 2020 have been so severely affected by the authority before work unlimited fine. So if you are hav - marathon will still be able to take part by economic effects of the pandemic.” begins. This includes pruning, lopping and ing work done make sure your tree surgeon running, or walking, the marathon distance So it will still be possible to enjoy the topping as well as more drastic action such is fully informed. on a course of their choice. This has to be event, either as a participator or a spectator as uprooting or felling. Further details can be found at completed within 24 hours from 00:00 to - just not in the usual way. The Tree Officer then hassix6 weeks in https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree- 23:59 on Sunday 4th October. They will More details can be found on the web - which to act. She can; put a Tree preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conser - receive the finisher medal and T-shirt on site; https://www.virginmoneylondon - Preservation Order (TPO) on the tree, in vation-areas#amenity-means completion. In addition all runners and marathon.com/news-media/latest- charities with a place in the 2020 race will news/item/2020 WOULD A VOLUNTEER WORK DAY SUIT YOU? be eligible for a future Marathon. In 2021 riends of Vanbrugh Pits conservation at 10am, Vanbrugh Pits SE3 - by the two THE VANISHING HOUSE SPARROW Fvolunteer workday, Saturday 5th benches beside the footpath that runs Shirley Broughton September, 10am-1pm. Joe Beale (joetheil - directly south from Vanbrugh Park Road to [email protected]) co-ordinates the Charlton Way. Please bring your own am lucky enough to live in a part of conifers - all of which are steadily declin - conservation volunteer workdays. He gardening gloves. IWestcombe Park with a healthy popula - ing in availability. hopes that working parties can resume on tion of house sparrows. I say lucky, 3. Loss of roosting and daytime habitats- We will be social distancing. 5th September. If you can make it, join Joe because in London, sparrow numbers fell house sparrows will always seek out cover- by 60% between from hedges, dense PLANNING APPLICATIONS (See also http//www.westcombesociety.org/) 1994 and 2004 and shrubs, or areas of less the house sparrow is managed vegetation for WOODLAND HEIGHTS, VANBRUGH HILL ref 20/0710/F now on the Birds of daytime living. In recent To add a sixth storey to provide 8 flats with roof terraces Conservation years, gardens have been LAND TO REAR OF 34 FOYLE ROAD ref 20/2021/MA Concern 4 (BoCC 4) paved and extended over To remove Condition 19 attached to planning permission so as to allow removal of red list (most threat - and ‘landscaped’, with Armco barriers along both sides of the access lane ened) and a priority far fewer more 13 STATION CRESCENT ref 20/2396/A BAP (Biodiversity natural/vegetated/less Dental surgery: To install 1 illuminated sign projecting outwards and 2 non-illuminated Action Plan) species. manicured areas. fascia signs What has caused this catastrophic 4. The gradual increase in air pollution and JOHN ROAN SCHOOL, MAZE HILL ref 20/1942/L decline in numbers? Issues include the use of herbicides, insecticides and pesti - To install fences and gates to front of school following cides has polluted and damaged the envi - 45 FOYLE ROAD ref 20/1983/F 1. Inadequate food supply during summer ronment and its flora and fauna. Change of use from dwelling house to multi-occupancy house. and winter. Chicks are fed on a variety of How can we help? TREE WORKS invertebrates, including aphids, caterpil - 1. Grow insect-friendly plants for the JOHN ROAN LOWER SCHOOL, WESTCOMBE PARK ROAD ref 20/2375/TC lars, beetles and grasshoppers. Seeds and House Sparrows (and other birds and bats) Fell 3 ash trees, 1 oak and 1 sycamore. Cut back 4 ash from building. Reduce crown of vegetable matter are also given, particular - to feed on - many websites are available oak by 30% ly during periods when invertebrates are to offer advice, eg Buglife, Plantlife,The 101 MYCENAE ROAD ref 20/2433/TC scarce (e.g. cold weather) and become Wildlife Trusts. On rear boundary, reduce height of row of Leylandii by 3m and fell one dead one, Lop more important after the chicks leave the Grow seed-producing plants, eg. teasels, decayed lime to top of boundary fence. nest. globe thistle, sunflowers and leave seed BRADBURY/DUNSTABLE/WYCOMBE COURTS, ST JOHNS PARK ref A lack of small insects as a source of heads on the plants until early spring. 20/2411/TP nutrients, due to loss of vegetation, has 2. Feed the birds. Buy easy-clean (prefer - Fell leylandii. Lift crown of 5 lime trees, oak, holly, Norway spruce, sugar maple, lime, contributed to the steep decline in the num - ably caged) feeders and fill with seed (sun - horse chestnut. Crown reduce lime. Prune back tree of heaven. ber of house sparrows. Houses with well- flower hearts is a favourite food). Fat vegetated gardens support some of the balls/blocks are also popular. Feed highest densities of house sparrows. throughout the year! A lack of good quality food over the 3. Provide live mealworms in the breeding winter can also be detrimental, causing season - available more cheaply in bulk adults to enter the breeding season in poor online. condition and struggle to raise their young. 4. Protect/preserve existing nest sites; put 2. Loss of nesting sites. Modern buildings up nest boxes on buildings and grow suit - do not provide the opportunity for nests. able creepers and dense shrubs to provide These are often placed in holes and new sites for nesting. crevices within buildings, although spar - 5. Grow thick, preferably evergreen hedges rows will readily use nest-boxes. Free- and have a wilder area for daytime standing nests are also frequently built in habitat/nests. creepers against walls, in thick hedges, and 6. Ditch the chemicals!

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Westcombe News September 2020 7 MARKET PLACE ACCOMMODATION/ROOMS MARK CHEESEMAN, LOCAL TOM ELLIS BESPOKE CARPENTRY BUY LOCAL! FOR HIRE CARPENTER AND JOINER WITH Alcove bookcases, cabinets, wardrobes Discounts available on production OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE . and window seats. M. 07510 869947 of your Westcombe Society FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE All Aspects Of Carpentry and Construction membership card . Blackheath area, up to 150 people, Bar, Executed Considerately and to a High JEWELLERY AND WATCH REPAIRS disabled access. Tel 07940 296290 Standard. Both Traditional and AND VALUATIONS Contemporary Design Joinery - from Michele Franklin. British Jewellers BLACKHEATH VILLAGE: COUNSELLING Cupboards, Wardrobes, Floating Shelves Association accreditation 07809 502714 PARES FOOTWEAR Etc. Sash Window Overhaul. If you have [email protected] 10% OFF all shoes over £20, excluding sale BLACKHEATH COUNSELLING Rotten Window Sills, Door Frames Etc. stock SERVICE rather than replace them iith the associated Offers a professional, confidential and car - upheaval and expense, why not have a GREENWICH: ing service in a quiet setting. We are Timber/Resin Repair? Please Call Mark NORTH POLE RESTAURANT trained as integrative counsellors working on 07767 456131 or H: 020 8854 4028. TUITION 12.5% OFF Meals only for two with many models – including CBT and 3D DIVING 10% discount on all scuba div - Depth Psychology. 1 Hour sessions £50 UPHOLSTERER SPECIALISING IN GOLDSTAR LEARNING ACADEMY ing courses. Offer excludes scuba diving concessions are available. We offer TRADITIONAL UPHOLSTERY telephone and online counselling. Please UK equipment. Www.suemayesupholstery.net or Specialist in STEM Maths, ONLINE 1 to contact either Brenda – 020 8858 5969 phone 07932 040298 e: [email protected] or Linda – 020 1 and Group Tuition HUMBER ROAD : Experienced PGCE Qualified Tutors 8858 1991 e: [email protected] WINDOW CLEANING, GUTTER BODYWORKZ - THE FITNESS CLINIC w: www.bhhs.selondon.co.uk. Remember 07495 434234 109 Humber Road.10% OFF all treatments CLEANING, ROOF DEMOSS & @goldstarlearningacademy_uk no problem is too big or too small to TREATMENT AND JET WASHING . costing £30 or more except Chiropody; share. exc.Saturdays. Mike 07791 465052 SHOW YOUR COMPUTER WHO IS www.blackheath-window-cleaner.co.uk ROYAL NEPALESE RESTAURANT GARDENING THE BOSS Are you looking for some (Station Crescent) 20% OFF meals for two extra help working with your computer? GARDEN MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN / ALARM ENGINEER Need some help with your digital photos, or more Sunday - Thursday. Mowing, weeding, pruning, planting No job too small TMIET registered. online shopping and the jargon? To discuss CORIANDER RESTAURANT (Station schemes,, communal garden contracts, Call 07879 011792 the options, call Paul on 07958 251448 or Crescent) 25% off Sunday to Thursday. RHS qualified. Call John 07746 121510 email [email protected] Bookings only! PHONE / BROADBAND SOCKETS. YVES’ TREES Improved Broadband speed plates, Fault MATHS & ENGLISH TUITION THE STANDARD: Are you lost in a maze of planning Finding Repairs, New Extensions, Tidying and preparation for 11+ and independent COTON & HAMBLIN - OPTICIANS requirements? Trees in conservation areas of cables. 25 yrs BT, Insured. school selection tests by qualified and £65 off complete spectacles a speciality. Planning consent applications 07845 705900 experienced teacher.marystuition.com BLACKHEATH EYECARE OPTICIANS made accessible. Please call Yve on 07523 Mary Bauckham 07709089838 mary - TRAINED CHIMNEY SWEEP & 20% off 2nd pair of spectacles. (Same pre - 588845 or email bauckham@ gmail.com scription). Not in conjunction with any other [email protected] STOVE INSTALLER Fast, friendly Happy to work! Call offer. (Complete glasses start from £49.95 RUSSIAN TUITION. with single vision lenses). 5% off contact PARADISE TREE SURGEONS Anthony on 07772 649577 or email: Russian-speaking university lecturer offers Tree care, stump removal, gardening, [email protected] lens solution and accessories. lessons at all levels (including university, https://www.blackheatheyecare.co.uk/ landscaping, 0203 137 4996 business and conversation) in your [email protected] WESTCOMBE CLEANERS home/office. Tel.: 07766 531401 TROJAN PRESS 10% OFF all quotations www.treesurgeonsblackheath.co.uk I'm a friendly, hard-working & organised domestic cleaner. Regular or single serv - SPANISH TUITION WESTCOMBE HILL ices. Competitive rates. 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Ashley Greaves 8858 2981 WESTCOMBE PARK ROAD PSYCHOLOGY TUITION preparation of all eleven-plus exam com - KAREN STOREY OF HOMESPACE offers Experienced university Psychology Tutor ponents (CEM, GL systems). Evenings, members 10% discount on decluttering & providing all levels of tuition, ‘A’ Level to A MAN AND A VAN weekends available. Doctorate standard. Call on 07934 880423 Tel: 020 8858 3889 Mobile: 07885 917842 Email: [email protected] homestaging services.Please note new number: 07951 MALCOLM TIERNEY, CARPENTER MATHS TUITION 191086 www.home-space.biz SERVICES & TRADE Specialist in refurbishment, repair and Qualified and experienced secondary PENINSULA replacement of sash windows. teacher offers tuition to GCSE level. SHENDA FALVEY PERSONAL TRAINING 07775 657371 T.TA ELECTRICS. Call Miv Whitaker: 07745816338; & BOOTCAMPS Free bootcamp session at NICEIC Approved Contractor, Quality or email [email protected] Greenwich Peninsula worth £10. Book to LOCAL CARPET / OVEN CLEANER secure place (excludes existing customers) Tradesman. All electrical work undertaken, Specialist in cleaning Carpets & Ovens, Fully Insured & Guaranteed. 24HR LOCAL PRIVATE TUITION 25% off first personal training session plus Upholstery & rugs. M: 07828 503132 English & Math's Key stage 1 - GCSE'S EMERGENCY ELECTRICAL. Please call http://www.carpetcrew.co.uk free consultation M: 07887 727 335 Tony on 07961 509403 OR 020 8488 PGCE Qualified & Experienced Tutor. www.shendafalveypersonaltraining.com 7425 OR [email protected] 1-1 & Small groups (Online) BLACKHEATH REPAIR & Call: 07904 880448 ALTERATIONS CLINIC HOMEWORKS Jackets re-lined, Trousers repaired and ITALIAN TUITION WANT TO PLACE AN All-round handyman for those DIY’s you have Dresses re-shaped etc. no time for! General repairs. Painting & Native Italian teacher offers lessons at all ADVERT? Over 25yrs Experience levels.Preparation for GCSE, A-LEVELS Decorating. General Carpentry and flooring. 07904 880448 Flat-pack assembly. Patio and deck cleaning. No courses, Grammar, Conversation Tel Email: Advertising@west- job too small. 07788 743371 combesociety.org Contact Matthew Barron 07903 388658

8 Westcombe News September 2020