TES News No 183 • Autumn 2011 The newsletter of The Enfield Society

New planning guidance threatens the Green Belt

Threats to the Green Belt come and go but it appears that our widely Will we need to revive these posters cherished policy is now under a more from our campaign of 38 years ago? realistic threat than for a long time. A report by The Times Environment Editor on 1st July warns that vast tracts of countryside may be developed under new planning guidance that could trigger a building boom by weakening environmental standards. He has seen a recent draft of the new Planning Policy Framework, due to be published this month (July). It would tilt the balance in favour of developers. Current guidance, which contains a strong presumption against development, will have to give way to a need to demonstrate that the adverse effects of Green Belt development significantly outweigh CPRE leaflet the benefits. Planning authorities will no longer be able to require housing estates to have good public transport links and walking and cycling links to shops and workplaces. This can be taken into consideration only if resulting traffic congestion and Publicity materials used in the pollution would be so severe “Defend Enfield’s Green Belt Campaign” in 1973- that it outweighs the urgent 1974, in which the Enfield Preservation Society need for new homes. It will played a leading role. become much harder to obtain The coalition’s agreed commitment The Draft National Planning Policy affordable housing in this free for all. to protect green areas of particular Framework has just been published. It is If planning authorities do not identify importance to local communities available on the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government at a five year supply of housing sites (what about localism?) seems to have , obliged to approve all applications. a campaign that puts in the pale the where comments are invited. This There will be no more need to opposition to the Forestry consultation will close on 17 October 2011. prioritise brown field sites. To crown Commission sell off will be needed if Change of dates for TES this exercise in philistinism, councils we are to have a green and pleasant will lose the power to prevent land much longer. It will need the membership renewal landowners putting up advertising active support of all our members. See the important notice about this billboards in the countryside. Chris Jephcott on the back page. 1 Localism

Localism Bill Letter to the editor With fewer recent planning applications I refer to the article on page 10 of the Spring 2011 issue of TES News. This usefully to consider the Conservation Advisory discusses the Localism Bill, but is mistaken in stating that the bill gives some pointers Group devoted a session to a workshop to the way the Big Society works. The two have nothing whatever to do with one looking at the impact of the Localism Bill another. The bill is concerned with the population at large having more say, and the and the associated draft Section 106 Government less, about what should be done; but over and again, the Government Supplementary Planning Document have made it plain that the Big Society is concerned with who actually does it. (further information from Natalie Furthermore, I am mystified by your author's mention of “those of us who are not Broughton on (020) 8379 1451 or sure exactly how the Big Society is supposed to work”. Surely no such persons exist, [email protected]). for although, upon this matter as upon all others, the pronouncements of the In effect the Bill undoes a number of Government are pure sophistry, on this occasion their real meaning is as clear as changes and additions to the planning daylight, and they are fooling none of the people none of the time. process of recent years. As Richard “We want voluntary organisations and charities to play a bigger role”, they say, while Stones explained in the last TES News, at the same time increasing the tax burden on every individual, and (as noticed on the the intention is to devolve more front page of the same issue of TES News) reducing the funding available for the responsibility from the centre to the grass support of such bodies. If anyone really does need an explanation of the Big Society, roots. Gone are Regional Plans, here is one that is simultaneously brief, simple and complete:- introduced in 2004, and the responsibility for nationally significant infrastructure 1. We pay taxes to the Government so they can do things for us. projects, such as additional airport 2. They take the money and tell us to do the things ourselves. runways, is restored again to Parliament Trevor Patten with the abolition of the unelected Infrastructure Planning Commission. Richard Stones replies: I am not sorry to see the back of My comments on the “Big Society” were written some time ago (and even then rather ‘Statements of Community Involvement’, tongue in cheek). I agree with Mr Patten: the aim as it has emerged seems to be to get ‘Annual Monitoring Reports’ and ‘Local neighbourhoods to choose who provides their services, rather than to decide what Development Schemes’ with their often services to have. But this seems to me consistent with the thrust of the Localism Bill impenetrable jargon and I hope that the provisions I described. Both seem designed to by-pass the local authority, as a new ‘Community Planning Statements’ decision-maker and a provider of services, in favour of ad hoc “grass-roots” groups. will be more approachable. But new One key question is whether these measures (even if they are less cynical than Mr ‘Neighbourhood forums’ will have to Patten believes) will do anything to encourage real local autonomy: or will they have a structure that ensures their undermine local government and give Whitehall more control rather than less? continuity, with all the required skills. Defining and agreeing particular ‘Neighbourhoods’ could prove a headache and, as Richard suggests, local authorities could end up doing more, not less work. Decentralisation and Chris Jephcott the Localism Bill: an essential guide The government has published a series of explanatory documents about the localisation bill, including the two shown here: A plain English guide and An essential guide. These and over 30 “Impact assessments” of the bill’s provisions, are available at

Consultation on local planning regulations The Department for Communities and Local Government has set views on the Government’s proposals. It does not seek views up a public consultation, on which they seek responses by 7th on the provisions in the Localism Bill, or the National Planning October 2011. They say: Policy Framework, rather it asks for comments on how the regulations have responded to the planning reform pro- “In response to reforms in the Localism Bill, the Government is gramme. …This consultation paper invites your views on the revising the regulations which govern the process by which specific questions set out in the document, and other com- local councils prepare their development plans. This consulta- ments you may wish to make.” tion seeks views on whether the revised regulations are fit for The consultation document, which includes a draft of the purpose….This consultation sets out the background to proposed new regulations, is at 2 Sales table Christmas cards Situation vacant I have overseen the Publications and Sales of the Society’s publications for 15 years and think it is now time to hand over to someone with new ideas. This is an important job as profits on our sales over 30 years amount to more than £100,000, which has contributed to the maintenance of the very small membership fee. It is also one of the Trent Park House Whitewebbs House faces of the Society seen by the general public at the Autumn Show, Edmonton Carnival and other events. The job includes commissioning new publications, arranging rotas of volunteers to staff Jubilee Hall meetings and outside events, overseeing the supply of books and other items to retailers, despatching New River Loop Forty Hall decorated for Christmas orders by post to members and booksellers, purchasing copies of In common with many other publishers, the Enfield Society has found that sales of relevant books from other publishers Christmas cards have fallen considerably in the past few years as many people send text for re-sale to members, maintaining or e-mail greetings instead. We therefore have a considerable stock of Christmas cards stock records, banking revenue and and it has been decided not produce a new one this year. So we are offering a pack of one sending an update on publications of each of the four cards shown above, with envelopes, for £1. If you prefer one design, available to the Newsletter Editor. packs of 5 of any of the above are available to members at a reduced price of £1.25. As this person takes the sales items years is described with the development to events, a car is essential. So is a of new technologies and advanced computer, as many orders from educational requirements for engineers, booksellers outside Enfield arrive by technicians and craftsmen. This hardback e-mail. Some knowledge of the is illustrated by photographs and publishing world is useful but not reproductions of historic documents. essential. Time taken varies from The lads of Enfield Lock : 172 years of one or two hours a week to two days apprentice training at the Royal Small Arms in the week of the Autumn Show. If Factory, Enfield, Middlesex, England 1816- you are interested and would like 1988 / researched and written by Graham Birchmore and Roy Burges on behalf of the further information please phone me Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield, on (020) 8367 5920. I do not intend Apprentices Association. 2nd edition. - to resign until some time in 2012 but Faringdon : Libri Publishing, 2011. - 190p. ; suggest that the various aspects of 27cm. - ISBN 978-1-907471-30-8 : £15. the job warrant a lengthy handover. There is also a new book in Jim Lewis’s Monica Smith Lea Valley series which explores the region’s rich heritage as a crucible of All items can be purchased from the world industry and technological firsts. Sales Table at Jubilee Hall meetings, the Entitled “Regeneration and Innovation – Autumn Show and the open morning in There are two new books now on sale invention and reinvention in the Lea December at Jubilee Hall, the date of which are likely to appeal to those Valley (price £9.99), this book charts the which will be announced in the next interested in the region’s industrial dramatic change from medieval farmland Newsletter. An order form with details of history. One is the second edition of “The to 21st century Olympic Village. It all items on sale is enclosed with this Lads of Enfield Lock” by Graham includes studies of the steam engineer, Newsletter.for those who prefer to order Birchmore and Roy Burges. The original Walter Hancock, the chemical company by post. Additions since last year’s form version has been updated and includes Johnson Matthey, the Great Eastern are marked NEW for ease of reference. many new photos together with Railway works and others. Copies of the They include the new and expanded reminiscences by fifty former apprentices other six book in this series are available Footpath Map of which over 400 copies at the Royal Small Arms Factory. The and are listed in the enclosed Order have been sold. changes in apprentice training over 172 Form. Monica Smith 3 Historic buildings Myddelton House, Bulls Cross The Elizabethan Bowling Green House In 1954 the School of Pharmacy was purchased in 1724 by Michael bought Myddelton House, which it Garnault. The house eventually passed to shared with the then Royal Free Medical Anne Garnault (1771-1812) who in 1799 School. The kitchen garden was used as a married the print seller and publisher, pharmacognosy garden. Henry Carrington Bowles (1763-1830). Myddelton House is now the He had Myddelton House built of yellow headquarters of the Lee Valley Regional Suffolk brick in 1818 to a design by Park Authority, to which it was sold in George Ferry and John Wallen, and the 1968. Sections of the gardens have adjoining Bowling Green House was then recently been restored, funded by a demolished. The house, which together Heritage Lottery Fund grant. They are with the gardens is listed Grade II, open daily, free of charge, May to commemorates Sir Hugh Myddelton, who September, 9.30 am to 6.30 pm and was responsible for the construction of October to April 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. the New River between 1609 and 1613.

E.A. Bowles ***

An extension with bay windows on the ground and first floors was added on the north side in about 1870

The east front of Myddelton House, as seen in 1821 * (from W. Robinson’s History of Enfield)

The house passed via Bowles’ son, also There is a new Visitor Centre, with tea Henry Carrington Bowles (1801-1852) to room and heritage exhibition telling the his nephew Henry Carrington Bowles compelling story of E.A. Bowles, in the Treacher (1830-1918), who changed his 19th century stable block. (See TES News surname to Bowles. Col. Sir Henry no. 182, page 2). “The crocus king: E.A. Ferryman Bowles (1858-1943), second Bowles of Myddelton House”, by Bryan A conservatory for the more tender son of H.C.B. Bowles, lived at Forty Hall Hewitt (Rockingham Press 1997, ISBN plants was built outside the drawing from 1895 (see TES News no. 173, page 1-873468-47-4: £6.95 paperback) is room on the south front. The morning 4) and was Conservative MP for Enfield available in the Visitor Centre. There is room to the right with a bay window for 1899-1906 and 1918-1922. Edward also an excellent audio guide and guided faces south and east. Augustus “Gussie” Bowles (1865-1954), tours of the gardens are available for fourth son of H.C.B. Bowles, began to groups by arrangement. For more London not normally open to the public develop the gardens from about 1890 and information telephone 08456 770 600 or may be seen free of charge. Visit they became internationally famous for visit . for their many rare and unusual plants. E.A. Myddelton House has a car park for details. Bowles was the author of a series of visitors and may be reached by train to Ÿ Images marked * were provided by Enfield books about his remarkable gardens. The Turkey Street station or by buses 217 and Local Studies Library and Archive. connection with the Bowles family is still 317 along the A10 to Turkey Street, 5 Ÿ Images marked ** were provided by the E. maintained today, and Brigadier Andrew minutes walk from the house. A. Bowles of Myddelton House Society Parker Bowles OBE (great-great nephew On Sunday 18th September the house of E.A. Bowles) is the current president (telephone 01707 874317). will be open from 10 am to 4 pm as part of the E.A. Bowles of Myddelton House Ÿ The image marked *** was provided by of the Open House London weekend, Society. the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority. when many properties throughout Stephen Gilburt 4 Historic buildings Historic Buildings Group meetings and visits A good number of TES members attended Graham Dalling’s interesting talk on Norfolk churches on 14th April. Details of an illustrated talk on Enfield’s railway stations, past and present by Dave Cockle, on 19th January 2012, will be in the next TES News. The drawing room was decorated in the As the Friends Meeting House at Greek revival style with a white marble This listed 1832 iron bridge was fireplace, cornices, ceiling rose, Winchmore Hill had a prior booking on constructed over a section of the New 7th May, Graham Dalling arranged for chandelier and pelmets decorated with River which was bypassed in 1859 and strapwork, garlands and cresting. TES members to see the nearby listed St. grassed over in 1968. The lead Paul’s Church. The nave was built in a ostriches, made by John van Nost in gothic revival style in 1826-7 with the the 1720s, came from Gough Park, chancel being added in 1888-9. The Forty Hill, which was demolished in church archivist, Peter Hodge, had 1899. They were recently moved to the prepared an informative display of prints Visitor Centre after their restoration. * and photographs relating to its history and he explained to visitors what there was to see.

E. A. Bowles’ drawing room, about 1890 **

Clissold House, 1790, and reinstated New River Mick Coe led an interesting walk around The ceiling of the c.1870 dining room Stoke Newington on 14th May. After has gothic revival strapwork based on a passing the 1790 neo-classical Clissold 15th century design The market cross stood in Enfield Town House, which is currently undergoing between 1826 and 1904 before being restoration, we traced the former route of moved to Myddelton House rose the New River through and near Clissold garden. (See TES News no.182, page 5) Park and were able to visit the two very different churches dedicated to St. Mary pictured on page 2 of TES News no.181. The old medieval church was rebuilt in 1563 and repaired and enlarged by Sir Charles Barry in 1828-9 but still retained E. A. Bowles’ bedroom in the 1930s ** its “village church like” appearance. The newer large Victorian gothic revival church opposite was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built in 1854-8, the spire being completed by John Oldrid Scott in 1890. Mick then pointed out some of the surviving Georgian houses in Stoke Newington Church Street. On a brief visit to Abney Park Cemetery, opened in 1840, we saw the Egyptian- style entrance and lodges, and memorials to various Salvation Army leaders, This sundial, over 300 years old, was including William and Catherine Booth. stolen in 2005 but after re-discovery of Mick Coe hopes to lead a walk around the pedestal in 2008 it was restored in Dulwich Village next year and details The painted stone and cast iron 2010 with a new dial (see TES News will be in TES News nearer the time. fireplace in E. A. Bowles’ library ** no.179, page 11) Stephen Gilburt 5 Diary dates

This list gives a selection of forthcoming events, not including our Tuesday 15th November, 2.15 for 2.30 pm, Jubilee Hall regular Jubilee Hall meetings listed on page 7. Contact details for Comediennes from the 30s–60s, by Geoff Bowden [EHHS] the organisations responsible for these events are given in the Friday 18th November, 7.30 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall notes at the end. Other events and updates may be found on our EAS Digging for Enfield sites – the roast beef of Old England by Neil web site at and on the Enfield Pinchbeck, EAS Osteo-archaeologist. [EAS] Council site at Tuesday 13th December, 7.45 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall Sunday 14th August, 3 – 5.30 pm, Hilly Fields Seasonal meeting of EHHS [EHHS] The Roosters Rock ’n’ Roll Group. In Support of the North London Other guided walks are organised by Enfield Council’s Parks Outreach Hospice [FoHF] Team. Details are in the “Walk Enfield” brochure which can be Wednesday 17th August downloaded from the Council’s Web site at Groundforce project: Camlet Moat . Phone (020) 8441 8272 or email Birch for any that may be in a dangerous condition, general scrub for more information. clearance. [GF] If you are interested in participating in Groundforce or ECV projects, please contact them in advance for details. Sunday 21st August 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Enfield Conservation Volunteers project: Hilly Fields GF: Groundforce. Contact Eileen Jessup (020) 8805 1974; Meet at the top of Cooks Hole Road. The stream at the bottom of ECV: Enfield Conservation Volunteers. Contact Jenny Willmot, Hillyfields is getting clogged with debris. We will be clearing it, along Outreach and Community Officer, Parks Office, Trent Park, Cockfosters with some surrounding vegetation. [ECV] Road, Barnet, EN4 0PS, tel. (020) 8449 2459, email or see the ECV website at Thursday 25th and Wednesday 31st August. 1.00-2.00 p.m. All . Saints Church, Church Street, Edmonton EAS: Enfield Archaeological Society. Visitors are very welcome (£1.00 Organ recitals. No need to book. Free but donations welcome to per person). restoration fund of this church on its 875th anniversary. Information: EHHS: Edmonton Hundred Historical Society (020) 8803 9199 . Wednesday 31st August FoHF: Friends of Hilly Fields Groundforce project: Mile & Quarter Footpath HA: The Historical Association, North London Branch. General maintenance and fencing inspection. [GF] These Saturday-Sunday 3rd-4th September, 10.30 am - 6.00 pm, Enfield meetings are open to all and there is no fee. Contact the Branch Town Park Secretary, Robin Blades (020 8368 5328), Autumn Show. Visit the Enfield Society stall. Thursday-Sunday 8th-11th September Where have all the roses gone? Heritage Open Days. English Heritage. Many openings throughout Hertfordshire and Essex. Tuesday 13th September, 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall The history of the Lea Valley Regional Park (illustrated), by Michael Rye, followed by AGM [HA] Wednesday 14th September Groundforce project: Hilly Fields Continuing with small tree growth clearance. [GF] Friday 16th September, 7.30 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall Life in the Imperial War Museum by Steve Turner, IWM. [EAS] Saturday-Sunday, 17th-18th September Open House London Weekend. Details at or libraries. Letter to the editor Wednesday 21st September, 7.45 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall Flora Robson in Southgate and Palmers Green, by Richard Pulver. [EHHS] We have lived in Uvedale Road for 48 years and enjoy our regular walks in the Town Park. The flower beds have always Wednesday 28th September been admired, especially the Rose Garden. However we are Groundforce project: Holly Hill Farm dismayed to see that at least six of the beds in the Rose Garden Groundforce Grove: cutting back scrub growth in and around trees and are currently empty of plants and several have been planted with pond [GF] lavenders and similar plants. We understand that the remaining Tuesday 11th October, 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall beds will be similarly planted. Presumably this is a cost cutting Big numbers and something out of nothing: charity and poor relief in move to save what can only be a small amount of money. 18th century Britain, by Dr Sarah Lloyd (University of Hertfordshire) [HA] We hope that this strategy will not be permanent and roses will again be planted to once again enhance the appearance of the Friday 14th October, 7.30 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall park instead of the dull grey colours of the lavenders etc. I am BBC Digging for Britain site – Happisburgh site by Dr Nick Ashton, British Museum. [EAS] attaching a photo to show three of the empty beds, the others are behind the remaining roses. Wednesday 19th October, 7.45 for 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall WW1: aspects of the home front, with slides and a display of postcards We trust that you will have some influence to press for the Rose and ephemera of the time, by David Green [EHHS] Garden to continue to be just that – a Rose Garden. Saturday 29th October, 10.00 am to 4.30 pm, Jubilee Hall Mr. M and Mrs. W. Roedel Day conference of EHHS. [EHHS] On 25th June we asked the Council if they would like to respond to Tuesday 8th November, 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall this letter, explaining their plans for the rose garden, but we had not Henry VIII's Reformation (illustrated) byDr Lucy Wooding (King's received any reply by the time we went to press, 24th July. College, London) [HA] - Ed. 6 Jubilee Hall The Chairman’s column meetings I am going to be controversial. The new apparently available wheelie bin system currently spreading to disguise them. over the whole of Enfield has some Though I am Tuesday mornings 10.00 for 10.30 am. advantages. sceptical that three 5 Some meetings may finish a little later Having spent a considerable amount of foot high bins can ever convincingly than normal. time over the past 10 days discussing it resemble a row of sunflowers there are August – no meeting and answering letters from our members, ways of making them less intrusive. The while seeing the bins sprouting like new slim-line bin is one, the same height it is 27th September triffids from behind garden walls all true, but they can be hidden slightly more Bangkok to Beijing, by Sheila and John around, I can see the disadvantages. They easily. You can also ask for a free Smale, with a digital presentation. are large, they are ugly, and they are composter from the council, though I 25th October difficult to move when full. I’m sure can’t see this would alleviate the need for A touch of glass, by Garry Lakin. Historic many of you can find other things to say the garden/food waste bin. We had been aerial photography from 1900 onwards, about them too. But they do seem to told bags were an option but it seems that including pictures taken from Tiger Moth work. this is really not the case unless you do and Puss Moth aircraft. In The Crescent, where there was a huge not have a front garden. The other alternative is to share with a neighbour… 29th November problem with rubbish and litter, not to The time line, by Margaret Bale, with mention a severe infestation of rats, the Having discussed the bins with the slides. scene is vastly improved within two council at nearly every one of our weeks of the bins arriving. Going down meetings with them over several years, 13th December another Enfield road recently I saw a fox we have been unable to change their Christmas, with Christine and Peter looking extremely hungry, and no bags policy, contracts having been signed and Padwick torn open with rubbish strewn all over the money spent, and we now have to live road and pavement left in a wake behind with the results. I wish all of you well in Thursday evenings 7.30 for 8.00 pm him. The council also reports a million your attempts to do so, you can be sure August – no meeting pound saving in the expense of rubbish that living in a terraced house myself 15th September disposal and increased satisfaction with with a small and pebbly front garden I London here and there, by Frank rubbish collection and street cleaning. will be having the same problems, and Bayford, with slides. I have also seen people being very currently am trying to decide between a giant plastic row of tulips, or a hole in the 20th October inventive in their disposition of the bins, cutting holes in hedges to hide them, and tree – I fear both may be necessary. In and around Enfield, by Stephen getting the floral covers which are Janet McQueen Sellick, with slides. 17th November Grand tour of Syria, by Monica Smith, Evening meetings 2012 TES AGM 2011 with slides. Unfortunately we have not had any This year’s AGM was held on 9 June at response to the request for an evening Jubilee Hall. The Meeting approved the Hire Jubilee Hall meeting organiser. Consequently there 2010 Accounts and went on to approve for your meeting will not be a regular monthly Thursday changes to the Management Committee. evening meeting as from January 2012. Jubilee Hall is available for hire to Dave Cockle, John Davies and Leonard However the Historic Buildings group Will, who retired from office by local groups and societies for seated will continue to have talks in certain meetings, conferences, etc. rotation, were re-elected, and the months and these will be advertised in appointment of Tony Dey, who had The hall can accommodate up to 80 the newsletter as usual. Everybody is been co-opted to the Committee, was people, and there are facilities for welcome to these talks which are confirmed. The Meeting also heard with making and serving tea and coffee. extremely interesting and usually focus regret that Olive Sharman and Derrick Enquiries about bookings should be on buildings with local or national Stone had retired from the Committee made to Pat Keeble, tel: (020) 8360 interest and importance. and that Olive had also resigned as 3873 or by email to To help fill the gap, and as next year is a Membership Secretary. The Chairman special one with the Olympics and the thanked Derrick and Olive for their Queen’s Jubilee, we will be supporting contributions to the Society. Trees Group the Council in putting on a programme The Meeting also confirmed the of local events with a focus on Enfield Management Committee’s nomination Tree nursery help needed past and present. These will to some of Tony Langston as a Vice-President of extent replace the regular evening talks, the Society in recognition of his many Fighting the weeds on the Trentwood at least for one year, but if there is services to the Society over the years. Side allotment tree nursery plot is anyone out there who feels able to help proving quite a headache for the few the Society in taking over organising and After the formal business was active members of the group. Any running the regular evening meetings concluded, we enjoyed an informative volunteers to put in the occasional couple then we would love to hear from you – and entertaining talk by Stephen Gilburt of hours would be welcomed with open contact Janet McQueen or Monica Smith on royal palaces in England, illustrated arms. Contact via Jubilee Hall. via (020) 8363 9495. with Stephen’s excellent slides. Chris Jephcott, Convener. Janet McQueen Richard Stones 7 Bank Holiday Mon 29 Aug. Four is the contrast of a Gothic Village and then Future walks Rivers. Meet 10.35am Ware Station. a “country walk” across the Heath. Shorter Note: if, as normally on a bank holiday, options. Bring lunch or food available. Train details are correct at press date but NEEA operate a Sunday service, then a Leader: Stuart Mills TES cannot be responsible for through train at 10.12am from Southbury Mon 3 Oct. Chiltern Scenery. Meet subsequent alterations. Please always Station without usual need to change at 10.54am Chorleywood Station (10.27am check with operating train companies’ Cheshunt – but check before travelling. 8 train from Marylebone enquiries line (08457 48 49 50) or with to 9 mile circular walk via New River and mainline station or 10.08am Met Line train their websites. For TFL London area the pretty valleys of the Rivers Lea, Ash from Baker Street). About 8 mile walk in Tube, DLR, and and Rib. Bring lunch or pub food probably delightful Chilterns countryside. bus details, ring 0843 222 1234 or check available. Leader: Brian Frear TFL website. Possibility of shorter option. Bring lunch Wed 7 Sept. Between the Rivers Beane or pub food available. By car via M25 Reduced price train travel: Groupsave & Rib. Meet 10.20am Hertford North (junction 18) then A404. All travel within Off-Peak Day Return (previously Cheap Station (10.01am train from Enfield Chase) area. Leader: Stuart Mills Day Return) tickets allow 3 or 4 adults to for about 8.5 mile circular walk with Sat 15 Oct. Enfield’s Countryside. Meet travel together for the price of 2 adults on attractive valley and pastoral scenery, via First Capital Connect, London Midland, 10.10am at the main entrance gates to Stapleford, Tonwell and Chapmore End. Southeastern, Southern, Chiltern, South Chase Farm Hospital, The Ridgeway (W8, Possible shorter options – either: (i) by West or National Express East Anglia. W9 & 313 buses or about 12 mins walk return to Hertford by bus or (ii) when Even for travel to the start of linear walks from Gordon Hill Station). Groupsave tickets are usually cheaper route goes near Hertford East Station The route follows the newly opened than buying a standard price single but (convenient for anyone travelling home by you must travel as a group. the Lea Valley line). Bring lunch or pub “Merryhills Way” into Trent Park and food probably available. Leader: Breda then via the Jubilee Path to the “Robin If you have a Freedom Pass or National Jenkins Hood” pub, Botany Bay, for the lunch stop. Bus Pass please bring it with you as we Afterwards we go via Tingey Tops, Crews might use a bus for access. Sat 10 Sept. White Water Centre. Meet Hill Station and Whitewebbs to end at Please wear walking boots or stout 2.15pm Broxbourne Station (1.44pm train from Southbury Station changing at Gordon Hill Station. Full route 8 to 9 walking shoes – trainers are not usually miles. Shorter options. If joining group for suitable, even for London parks. Cheshunt for the 2.09pm train or, catch the 1.55pm train from Tottenham Hale which afternoon only, be at Botany Bay by Sat 13 Aug. Just north of Enfield. Meet also stops at Ponders End, Brimsdown & 1.40pm (1.21pm 313 bus from Cecil Road, 10.30am Tesco Superstore, Mutton Lane, Enfield Lock Stations). 5 mile linear walk Enfield Town). Details: (020) 8366 2242 Potters Bar (242, 298 buses and 10.01am or 07948 204 025. Leader: Dave Cockle 313 bus from Cecil Road, Enfield Town, via the rivers & waterways of the Lea all stop outside and 84 bus stops 200 yards Valley Park with a visit to the new Wed 19 Oct. Conservation Countryside. away). 8.5 mile linear walk ending at Olympic Centre. Ends at Enfield Island Meet 10.15am Bayford Station (10.01am Crews Hill Station with shorter options of Village by about 5.45pm (return by 121 train from Enfield Chase) for 7 mile 3.5 and 5.6 miles. A surprisingly rural & 491 buses). Shorter option. Leader: circular walk through varied and attractive route, with good views, a Japanese garden Monica Smith countryside with lunch stop in Newgate and nature reserves, plus some paths that may Mon 19 Sept. Mid-Hertfordshire. Street Village. Bring lunch or pub food be new to you. Bring lunch or pub food at Meet 10.34am Welwyn North Station available. Possible shorter option by using Northaw. If joining group for afternoon (10.11am Cambridge train from Finsbury bus. Car drivers could park in Bayford section of 5 miles, be at Northaw by about Park mainline station or 10.21am from village (please park considerately and not in 1.30pm. Leader: Stuart Mills Potters Bar Station). A different format to pub car park) and walk down to meet Wed 24 Aug. and this linear walk – about 8.5 miles in group at station (allow 10/12 mins). Rivers. Meet 11.00am Richmond unspoilt countryside via Harmer, Burnham Leader: Roy Dyer. Station or travel with Dave on the & Bulls Greens and Tewin, ending at Sat 29 Oct. Essex Villages. Meet 9.34am train from Enfield Chase, changing Hertford North Station. Note: as the walk 10.48am Stansted Mountfitchet Station at Highbury & Islington for the 10.10am involves travelling out on the mainline and (10.10am Cambridge train from London Overground train to Richmond. 9 returning on the Hertford Loop, purchase Tottenham Hale or 9.44am train from mile linear walk ending at Greenford but an off-peak day return ticket from the many shorter options. Waterways and Southbury Station changing at Cheshunt Freedom Pass boundary to Stevenage. green spaces throughout, with much of the for either the 9.55am Stansted Airport train Bring lunch or pub food available. Leader: route beside/near the Thames, Grand or the 10.18am Cambridge train). 8 to 9 mile Union Canal and River Brent, via the Martin Langer circular walk via Ugley Green, Manuden historic centre of Isleworth and Syon Park. Sat 24 Sept. Highgate and Hampstead and other pretty, but curiously named, Bring lunch or food available. All travel Heath. Meet 10.30am Highgate Station – villages. Bring lunch or pub food probably within Freedom Pass area. Details: (020) booking office/Priory Gardens entrance. available. By car: either A10, A120 & 8366 2242 or 07948 204 025. Leader: Dave Access by Northern Line from either High B1383 or via M25, M11 (junction 8), A120 Cockle Barnet (about 20 mins) or from Central westwards & B1383. Leader: Brian Frear Sat 27 Aug. Edmonton Heritage. London (possible engineering works Wed 2 Nov. Autumn Colours. Meet Meet 2.30pm in car park of Millfield involving King's Cross branch, so may need 10.30am Chingford Bus Station (next to House Arts Centre, off Silver Street, N18 to go from Euston – check with TFL). rail station – 313 buses from Church (on bus routes 34, 102, 144 & W6 plus Otherwise, by train to Finsbury Park, 210 Street, Enfield Town, currently at 9.40am routes 217 and 231 nearby on Al0). 2.5 to bus to Archway (about 14 mins), then either & 10.00am). 6 to 7 mile circular walk 3.0 hour linear walk using some of the paths one stop on the tube, a short bus ride or walk through lesser known parts of Epping shown on the new TES map via Pymmes up Archway Road. Also station car park. Forest via Woodford Wells, Woodford and Craig Parks. Ends with a visit to the The morning route will explore the fine Church Street conservation area, from Green, Highams Park Lake and River buildings and historic heart of Highgate where car drivers can return to start by direct Ching. Shorter options. Bring lunch or food bus. Leader: Monica Smith plus nearby open spaces, whilst after lunch available. Leader: Norman Coles 8 Future walks Natural environment (continued) Open spaces, gardens doubt partly encouraged by TV Sat 12 Nov. Capital Ring & Harrow- programmes, the media and on-the Hill. Meet 10.45am Greenford and wildlife designers/suppliers), resulting in the loss Station (Central Line – about 38 mins Members who joined the Footpaths Group of huge areas of vegetation throughout from Liverpool Street, 31 mins from on their recent walk from Chipstead in the London. It is estimated that in London Holborn & 28 mins from Oxford Circus). during this period front garden land Otherwise, travel with Dave on the Surrey Downs not only saw magnificent amounting to 32 square kilometres 9.29am train from Enfield Chase. scenery but were privileged to see (about 12.5 square miles) was lost to Today’s relatively short section ends at something that, unfortunately, is now South , but is full of contrasts becoming rare – namely, large numbers hard paving. Often householders do not and will include an extra compared to the and varieties of butterflies. leave any space for plants and pave from standard route – namely, a tour around Old Such large numbers exist in that area boundary to boundary. Harrow going past many of the historic because Surrey County Council and the Apart from the inevitable visual buildings and visiting famous view- Banstead Downs Conservators had the degradation in the street scene and for points. Shorter options (including foresight many years ago to protect and neighbours, as frequently documented, leaving from Old Harrow). Bring lunch or subsequently manage the land to maintain the resultant damage to the environment food available. All travel is within the a very rich and varied plant and insect includes increased flooding, over- Freedom Pass area. Details: (020) 8366 population. loading of sewer systems (even in 2242 or 07948 204 025. Leader: Dave It was reminiscent of 30 to 40 years ago periods of moderate rainfall), higher Cockle when, on a summer’s day, you would urban heat and dust levels that occur Wed 16 Nov. , have reasonably expected to see large when vegetation is removed, less carbon Commons & Woods. Meet 10.45am numbers of insects or, even perhaps dioxide absorption and increased North Greenwich Station (Jubilee Line). “clouds” of butterflies, not only in the subsidence. Note: Roy intends to join the 9.34am train countryside but in the average suburban In turn, such changes have led to from Enfield Chase at Grange Park, garden. Today their numbers are significant loss of insect mass including changing at Highbury & Islington for the disastrously declining throughout the butterflies in urban areas, which 10.10am London Overground Crystal United Kingdom but particularly in urban contributes to the decline of many bird Palace train to (from areas. species, although it has to be said that where the start is 6 mins on the Jubilee rats and other rodents love decking (a Line). It should be borne in mind that private ready made and safe home for them!). After using the Thames Path to the Thames gardens are an integral part of the Barrier, Roy follows sections of the Green ecosystem, and especially in London, We can all help to stem this adverse Chain Walk via parks, commons where they make up 20% of London’s trend. For instance, if you need to create (Woolwich, Plumstead & Winns) to enter total land area and 33.3% of all green off-road parking, only pave the the ancient woodlands of Great Bartletts, spaces in the capital. A patchwork of rear minimum area for the vehicle using a Bostall Woods & Heath and Lesnes Abbey and front gardens (whether large or small) permeable material, leave space for Woods before ending at a nearby station. can be a haven for wildlife and will have vegetation including perhaps a grass strip Full route 7.5 to 8.0 miles but many shorter a significant impact on the local and between the vehicle’s wheels and, options. All travel is within the Freedom regional environmental landscape. elsewhere in the garden, plant nectar Pass area. Bring lunch or food available. Unfortunately over the past 15 to 20 years heavy plants, not just for the summer but Details: (020) 8360 0282. Leader: Roy there has been what can only be described also for throughout the year – e.g. on a Nicholls as an epidemic in hard paving makeovers sunny day in the winter, bumble bees Sat 26 Nov. The Old East End. Meet and the use of decking materials (no love winter flowering heathers. 9.50am Cambridge Heath Station Stuart Mills (9.22am train from Enfield Town) for a linear walk highlighting changes from the East End to the rejuvenated Not past it Docklands via the Mile End Greenway, Poplar High Street, Limehouse Basin and After seeing the article on the new Wapping. Bring lunch or food Merryhills Way footpath I was tempted to explore it. I managed it without available. Although full route is 8 Farmers to the riding stables bus stop miles, finish point will depend upon difficulty, despite not being able to walk for long now, so I am writing to (121 and 307). The reward is an weather conditions etc on the day. Many astonishing walk in complete peace shorter options. Details: 07703 470 156. encourage more of you to try it. If, like me, you look at the enticing walks with views of farmland, wildflowers Leaders: Toby Simon & Margaret and butterflies, and the sound of McAlpine page in each issue and regret being past it, you could still enjoy larks to keep you company. Because Wed 30 Nov. More tales from the of uneven ground and occasional London Blitz. Meet 10.30am beside the a section of the Merryhills Way. If you can walk slowly for 25 patches of nettles, trousers and stout steps at the main western entrance to St. shoes are advisable – but worth Paul's Cathedral. With the 70th anniversary minutes (I did it with an arthritic hip, knee and foot) you can now donning even for this short walk, of the Blitz, and by popular request, Brian which feels a world away from the will explore more parts of The City that walk through countryside from the Drapers Road bus stop (route 313) city it borders: a huge thank-you were so irrevocably altered by the Blitz. Full to all those whose hard work route will end by 1.30pm but many shorter to the Jolly Farmers bus stop created it. options. Leader: Brian Frear (routes 121, 307 and 377); 35 Sheena Will Stuart Mills minutes takes you from the Jolly 9 New buildings

Current developments Roof clutter In Enfield Town the scaffolding erected The Conservation Advisory Group has around the new Library almost as soon as been concerned by the number of larger it opened has now disappeared. We developments in which structures such as learned that attention to the lead flashing roof plant and equipment are not shown around the roof was needed to prevent in the agreed plans, but then appear as a staining of the (expensive) stone work fait accompli, with an application for which had quickly become apparent. respective planning consent. On the construction side, work has finally A case in point, which we highlighted started on the long, long vacant site in some years ago, is the roof clutter Silver Street next to Lloyd’s Bank. marring the appearance of Thomas Hardy Permission for an infill building with House. The new Evangelical Free Church flats over retail was approved some while was found to need large ventilation ago. Generally we were happy with the structures like ships’ funnels jutting from design. The same developer is now the copper coloured, pyramidal roof, to considering alternative uses for the Little which the Group had previously devoted Park Gardens car park site. The proposed quite extensive scrutiny. day centres were not popular. On the The latest concern is the refurbished former Rialto/Gala site the first Clock House Parade in London Road. brickwork is now to be seen. We were Whilst we were glad to see the building given assurances earlier that no roof plant upgraded in place of the proposed block would be visible. A crane towers over the Market Place of flats, the prominent plant and trunking In the Green Belt the planned conversion and the recently refurbished King’s situated immediately behind the clock of the former Hadley Road Pumping Head as work progresses on the former considerably spoil the appearance of the Station into eight residential units with Rialto/Gala site. building looking south along London the detached workshop as an additional Road. We were glad to hear that house appears to be a sensitive and retrospective permission has been appropriate use. refused. Chris Jephcott Chris Jephcott

Roof clutter: Thomas Hardy House, Clock House Parade and the Evangelical Free Church

independent group supported by the and widespread budget cutbacks in all Groundforce and Council. local authorities, not just LBE, the Enfield Conservation This includes retention of their future of ECV appeared to be in doubt. workshop and equipment at Trent Park Certainly, without the support of LBE Volunteers and the use of a loan vehicle to (for example with guidance on suitable transport tools and materials to site. tasks and insurance), ECV would have In our Spring issue, no.181, we reported difficulty continuing in its valued work in our concern at the suggestion that Groundforce will now be able to the parks and open spaces of Enfield. continue with their twenty year history Enfield Council might withdraw their However, we're happy to report, LBE support from Groundforce and the of environmental work in the Country Parks and Green Belt and the have appointed a replacement for Enfield Conservation Volunteers (ECV). construction and maintenance of the Christina Lee – Jenny Willmot – and We are very pleased to have received the rural footpath network.” with the support of Shirley Scott, the following report from John Smith of LBE Partnership & Outreach Services Groundforce, indicating that things look We notice that Robin Herbert has also Manager, it looks like ECV will emerge brighter for the future. put a note on the ECV website, reading: from uncertainty with refreshed vigour! “Following several constructive and “Recent news of the impending death ECV is alive and kicking and all are amicable meetings with the directors of Enfield Conservation Volunteers has welcome!” and staff of the Parks and Property been greatly exaggerated. Some forthcoming projects and contact Services Departments, Groundforce Following the departure of our contact details for Groundforce and ECV are has now been reorganised as an in the London Borough of Enfield, listed in “Diary dates” on page 6. Christina Lee, to the wilds of Wales Leonard Will 10 New building New members We warmly welcome the following New day centre for North London Hospice new members: Ms D Abrahams, Mrs J Alaimo, Mrs S Bayhan, Mr A Beckett, Ms D.M. Compton, Mr G Davis, Mr & Mrs A & C Farahar, Ms S Fifer, Mr & Mrs R & C Halliday, Mr W Hawes, Mr K Judge, Mr & Mrs L Knight, Mrs D Pickett, Mrs J Prestage, Miss M Rowsell, Mr J Studman, Mrs M Thompson, Mr & Mrs R & J Turner, Mr R Weil, Mrs Y Wesley, Mrs B Wigmore, Mrs J Wiltshire. Joyce James

Architects’ drawing of the new building Newsletter contributions For many years the North London As you can see from the drawing the Contributions to the newsletter from Hospice has wanted to bring hospice building is modern but with pointed members are most welcome, and may services closer to the people living in the roofs. It will be built of brick in keeping be in the form of letters, articles, news Borough of Enfield who need their care. with its surroundings. From the items, responses to previous articles, The Hospice has been providing end of sustainability point of view, the main opinion pieces or photographs. We life care in Enfield since l984 but realised features will be: cannot undertake to publish some years ago that a facility was needed Ÿ High glazing and insulation everything, and we reserve the right to within the borough that would provide a specifications shorten or edit items before Day Centre, drop in clinic and offices for Ÿ publication. Copy in electronic form is Green roof over the day centre most convenient, and can be sent as an their specialist team of doctors, nurses, Ÿ Energy efficient lighting system email attachment to social workers, bereavement counsellors Ÿ and physiotherapists who care for Heating provided by solar collectors , patients in their own homes. and ground source pumps. but items on paper can also be All was agreed, planning permissions accepted. Contact the Newsletter At last in 2008 a suitable site was found Editor, Leonard Will, at the above in Barrowell Green. The building there granted and building began this February with anticipated completion early 2012. email address or by telephone at (020) had been used as a NHS clinic and the 8372 0092 if you have any questions hospice was able to buy the site from the The design of the gardens surrounding about making a contribution. The copy NHS as a preferred purchaser. The vision the Day Hospice has been important to date for the next issue is 21st October to build a Day Hospice in Enfield was everyone planning the facility. A range of 2011, but items can be sent at any time going to become a reality. trees and shrubs, with seating and and having them in advance is most The decision was taken not to refurbish walkways will be enjoyed by patients and helpful. The newsletter is distributed the existing building but to design a visitors as well as by those passing by on about three weeks after the copy date. Barrowell Green and Ash Grove. facility that really suited our needs. An Leonard Will architect was chosen, and a design This is a very exciting project that will agreed. This was not an easy process as make a real difference to Hospice the hospice wanted a building that was patients living in Enfield and their appropriate to the area, and accepted by families. It will become an essential part the local people, and yet they wanted it to of the local community. This is a new on-line service intended to be interesting and therefore noticed. It Pauline Treen enable citizens to discuss and prioritise was also important that the building was Director of Enfield Appeal issues of local or national interest. Those as sustainable as possible. North London Hospice matters which gain the most support from participants are referred to MPs, who can TES on-line discussion wartime evacuees, the cable-supported then make a direct response on the web tree in Little Park Gardens and an early pages and join in the discussion if they group film of a street party in Edmonton. wish. The service is fairly new and some The Enfield Society on-line discussion of the campaigns suggested are rather If any of these topics intrigues you, or if imprecise and unrealistic, but it does have group has been quite lively recently, with you have something else to discuss, do several requests for information, answers, the potential for identifying topics which join the group, which is at many people feel strongly about. reminiscences and a series of quiz . You can view the views of the silent majority. Topics include Enfield Cable Company, discussions on-line without joining, but Sixth Avenue, Camlet Moat, war you have to join in order to participate. The starting page is at memorials, bits of London Bridge now in We look forward to seeing you there. Enfield, oldest oak trees in the borough, Leonard Will Leonard Will 11 TES Directory Coach outing

President: Dr C.J.A. Jephcott Coach trip to Walmer Castle and Sandwich on Chairman: Janet McQueen Sunday 4th September

Hon. Secretary: Richard Stones There are a few places remaining on the Hon. Treasurer: David James coach trip to Sandwich and Walmer Office: 2 Parsonage Lane, Enfield, castle on Sunday 4th September 2011, Middlesex, EN2 0AJ. though the boat trip is full. If you would Telephone: 020 8363 9495 like to join us then please send a SAE to, When there is nobody in the office, messages Coach Outings, Jubilee Hall, 2 Parsonage left on the answering machine will be dealt Lane, Enfield, EN2 0AJ, enclosing a with as promptly as possible. cheque made payable to “The Enfield Web site: Society” for £15 for coach only, £21 for Helplines: For information on TES coach and Walmer Castle. activities or to report matters you think Please include a contact telephone need investigation or action, please phone number. Full details of the trip are in the the appropriate number below. Email Summer issue of TES News, no. 182. addresses are given on the “Contacts” The Queen Mother's Garden at Walmer page on our Web site. Janet McQueen © English Heritage Photo Library Architecture and Planning 020 8363 7707 (John Davies) Coach Outings Membership of The Enfield Society 020 8367 7374 (Janet McQueen) Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings, Change to a fixed date for membership renewals Green Belt The recent change of membership Please pay to Barclays Bank (sort 020 8360 5677 (Chris Jephcott) secretary has given us the opportunity to code 20-29-77) for the benefit of The review our membership arrangements. Enfield Society (account number Edmonton Group 50363820) the sum of £...... * on 1st 020 8367 5920 (Monica Smith) We have decided to change to a FIXED January 2012 and £...... * on the Footpaths and Walks ANNUAL RENEWAL DATE of 1st same date each following year until 020 8367 5168 (Shirley Cotton) January as this will simplify our further notice. Historic Buildings Group administration, help keep membership If you already pay by standing order with 020 8363 0031 (Stephen Gilburt) records accurate and make less work for a payment date other than 1st January, the membership secretary, as well as Jubilee Hall Bookings please ask your bank to change the 020 8360 3873 (Pat Keeble) reducing costs incurred in sending out payment date to 1st January each year. It first, second and final reminders would help us considerably if you could Membership throughout the year. 020 8367 3171 (Joyce James) do this as soon as possible. For those of you who pay by cheque, the Press and publicity Anyone who pays UK tax can also help 020 8363 5732 (Bob Fowler) one and only reminder for renewal will the Society by telling us that they want be included in the Winter newsletter, their subscription and any donations to be Records and Research which comes out in November. Many 020 8372 0092 (Leonard Will) treated as Gift Aid. people will have up to 9 months free We did consider increasing the Trees membership this year, while we adjust to membership fee from our current £2.50 020 8360 5677 (Chris Jephcott) the new pattern. If you have paid a minimum per person, which I am sure Management Committee subscription after 31st March 2011 we most of you will agree, is exceptional Dave Cockle, Graham Dalling, John will treat this as your membership for value for money. However as most people Davies, Tony Dey, Robert Fowler, 2012, so you will receive free membership Stephen Gilburt, David James, Joyce very generously give more than this for the remainder of 2011. As most people James, Janet McQueen, Stuart Mills, minimum we have decided to leave the send in additional donations above the Colin Pointer, Monica Smith, Richard subscription as it is for the moment. Stones, Leonard Will. £2.50 minimum we considered this the New members are always welcome. Vice-Presidents least we could do; donations will be Mrs B. Dorrington, Lord Graham of gratefully accepted at any time. Membership forms can be downloaded on-line from Edmonton, Mr P. A. Langston, Mrs P. We would ask, though, that you pay Lowen, Mr D. Pam, Mr C. Pointer, Mr or picked promptly as soon as you receive the M. Saunders, MBE, Mr A. J. Skilton up at the Central Library, The Civic Winter newsletter, as it is the extra work Centre, and The Dugdale Centre or at any Newsletter Editor involved when people have overlooked Leonard Will meeting held in Jubilee Hall. ([email protected]) their subscription that causes most problems. If payment has not been The Management Committee have The Enfield Society. received by 31st March then your amended the Society’s Rules to reflect the Registered in England as a limited company new subscription arrangements and to no. 312134. membership of the Society may lapse. make other minor changes. A copy of the Registered Charity no. 276451. Perhaps you would consider changing to revised rules is available from the Hon. payment by standing order, by sending a Printed by Studio Projects Ltd Secretary. note to your bank worded as follows, ISSN 2042-1419 (Print) David James, Hon. Treasurer filling in an amount of £2.50 or more ISSN 2042-1427 (Online) Joyce James, Membership Secretary (£5.00 for couples) where marked *: 12