At the request of our members, the Vauxhall Society:
Please email the Secretary of State for Communities, Mr Eric Pickles, asking him to rule against the building of the 42-storey Octave Tower in Bondway, Vauxhall Cross. If, that is, you support the decision of the committee of The Vauxhall Society to oppose the Octave. Our reasons (set out in full on the website, www.vauxhallcivicsociety.org.uk and below) are that the structure is so high and so wide that it will throw into shadow the surrounding streets and Vauxhall Park; the Octave will also worsen the district’s existing traffic congestion, poor air quality and overloading of public transport.
Now really is the time for you, your friends and neighbours to act. See below for email addresses and suggestions for what you might include in your message.
Ross Davies
Chairman
Vauxhall Society
How to reach Mr Pickles
The email address of the Secretary of State for Communities & Local Government is: eric.pickles@communities.gsi.gov.uk
It would be polite, and effective, to copy in Mr Pickles’ Director-General, Housing and Planning, who is Richard McCarthy: richard.mccarthy@communities.gsi.gov.uk
The same goes for the Minister’s two ‘Special Advisers’, Giles Kenningham and Sheridan Westlake:
giles.kenningham@communities.gsi.gov.uk
sheridan.westlake@communities.gsi.gov.uk
….but it doesn’t stop there...
The Vauxhall Society is apolitical, and we urge you to email any councillor or MP that you think Mr Pickles might listen to.
Assuming that Labour is against Octave Tower because Lambeth Borough Council opposed it, one councillor politician the Minister might take notice of (and so is worth your while emailing), is John Whelan, Leader of the Conservative Group on Lambeth Borough Council: conservatives@lambeth.com
Since Mr Pickles is a Conservative member of a Coalition government, you might also copy in Cllr Ashley Lumsden, leader of Lambeth Lib Dems:
cllrashleylumsden@lambethlibdems.org.uk
What to say in your email
It is not the business of The Vauxhall Society to tell anybody what to say, not even our members, but the points below may inspire you.
The committee of this apolitical society decided unanimously earlier this year to oppose the Octave Tower.
The thing to get over to the Minister and his team is that bad headlines are ahead in the national media for him and the Coalition if he says ‘Yes’ to the Octave Tower.
Why?
• Because there was unprecedented all-party opposition in Lambeth to this monstrous project- one community group after another lined up to oppose the scheme
• The decision landed in Mr Pickles’ lap only because a developer and his battery of expensive lawyers chose to go over the heads of the council and people of Lambeth
• By saying ‘Yes’ Mr Pickles follows in the footsteps of John, now Lord, Prescott and Ken Livingstone, in nodding through another skyscraper Lambeth did not want, The St George Tower – now under construction
• Lots of media people live in or have lived in Lambeth, and newspapers - among them the Evening Standard, The Independent and i group - are following the Octave story.
• A ‘Yes’ decision would be a gift to headline writers, who will interpret it as a pointer to the Coalition behaving much the same as New Labour, and the headlines will have fun with Mr Cameron’s ‘Big Society’ meaning big buildings whether people want them or not
• The phones will be ringing asking local celebrities what they make of a ‘Yes’ decision – would Mr Pickles risk a ‘Woolas Moment’ with Vauxhall’s Joanna Lumley if she hears he’s agreed to a cut in sunshine for one of the poorest wards in Vauxhall because of Octave’s shading of Vauxhall Park?
• Vauxhall Park won a Green Flag Award for excellence for the fourth time in 2010; Mr Pickles’ department sponsors the Green Flag award
Sunday, 12 December 2010
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
The 'F' word at St Anselm's
The ‘f’ word - a photographic exhibition with stories from around the world, from individuals discussing their journey through forgiveness, runs from 29th of November to the 3rd of December - 10 am to 8 pm, daily at St Anselm’s Church, Kennington Cross, London SE11 5DU.
For details of the launch on 29th at 6.00 pm, with guest speakers Mary Foley, mother of East London murder victim and Maria Cantacuzino, Founder of the Forgiveness Project, please contact tom.sanderson8@gmail.com
http://theforgivenessproject.com/
For details of the launch on 29th at 6.00 pm, with guest speakers Mary Foley, mother of East London murder victim and Maria Cantacuzino, Founder of the Forgiveness Project, please contact tom.sanderson8@gmail.com
http://theforgivenessproject.com/
Free workshops on Winning Contracts - for London organisations
Winning Contracts – Free Workshops January 2011
The Big Opportunity helps the London Voluntary and Community Sector make the most of the opportunities provided by the London 2012 Games and gives them a voice in shaping a sustainable legacy.
CompeteFor is a free service that enables businesses to compete for contract opportunities linked to the London 2012 Games and other major public and private sector buying organisations, such as Transport for London (TfL), Crossrail, City of Westminster and the Metropolitan Police. Most of LDA and GLA funding for the voluntary and community sector is also managed through CompeteFor.
The Big Opportunity, LVSC and London Civic Forum are now delivering a series of free workshops to help voluntary sector organisations and social enterprises understand the benefits of CompeteFor and compile mandatory Health & Safety, Environment, Equal Opportunities and Quality policies. The next workshop will take place on Thursday 20 January 2011 at LVSC offices in Old Street London EC1
Following each workshop participants can stay to complete their on-line registration and receive one- to- one advice. Places are strictly limited to organisations based in Greater London. To book your place please e-mail Karin Podschun at Karin@lvsc.org.uk
The Big Opportunity helps the London Voluntary and Community Sector make the most of the opportunities provided by the London 2012 Games and gives them a voice in shaping a sustainable legacy.
CompeteFor is a free service that enables businesses to compete for contract opportunities linked to the London 2012 Games and other major public and private sector buying organisations, such as Transport for London (TfL), Crossrail, City of Westminster and the Metropolitan Police. Most of LDA and GLA funding for the voluntary and community sector is also managed through CompeteFor.
The Big Opportunity, LVSC and London Civic Forum are now delivering a series of free workshops to help voluntary sector organisations and social enterprises understand the benefits of CompeteFor and compile mandatory Health & Safety, Environment, Equal Opportunities and Quality policies. The next workshop will take place on Thursday 20 January 2011 at LVSC offices in Old Street London EC1
Following each workshop participants can stay to complete their on-line registration and receive one- to- one advice. Places are strictly limited to organisations based in Greater London. To book your place please e-mail Karin Podschun at Karin@lvsc.org.uk
Art Exhibition at Beaconsfield
Mark Dean
The Beginning of the End
24 November 2010 – 13 February 2011
Tuesday – Sunday, 11am-5pm
Beaconsfield, 22 Newport Street, London SE11 6AY
The Beginning of the End
24 November 2010 – 13 February 2011
Tuesday – Sunday, 11am-5pm
Beaconsfield, 22 Newport Street, London SE11 6AY
Help develop a new employability service
Do you earn less than £10 an hour?
Would you like to contribute to the development of a new employability service that is relevant to you?
Participle, a social enterprise, is looking to build a new kind of employability service. They want to meet people who usually earn under £10 per hour who are either in or out of work to help make sure their new service meets people's needs.
To take part you must be a Lambeth or Lewisham resident, or take part with a friend who is. Discussions will be conducted by someone from Participle's EmployAbility team. Each conversation will last no longer than three hours and participants will be rewarded for their time. The meeting can take place either at your home or at a local place convenient to you.
Closing date: Friday 17 December 2010
Please email/ call/ drop call/ text Rabya Mughal with your name and contact details if you are interested. rabeyam@participle.net 07719 214 909
About Participle
Participle creates future services with and for the public. Participle starts from the individual and their community, unlocking a unique set of insights and motivations, which are then applied to the problems that need to be addressed.
More details at www.participle.net
Would you like to contribute to the development of a new employability service that is relevant to you?
Participle, a social enterprise, is looking to build a new kind of employability service. They want to meet people who usually earn under £10 per hour who are either in or out of work to help make sure their new service meets people's needs.
To take part you must be a Lambeth or Lewisham resident, or take part with a friend who is. Discussions will be conducted by someone from Participle's EmployAbility team. Each conversation will last no longer than three hours and participants will be rewarded for their time. The meeting can take place either at your home or at a local place convenient to you.
Closing date: Friday 17 December 2010
Please email/ call/ drop call/ text Rabya Mughal with your name and contact details if you are interested. rabeyam@participle.net 07719 214 909
About Participle
Participle creates future services with and for the public. Participle starts from the individual and their community, unlocking a unique set of insights and motivations, which are then applied to the problems that need to be addressed.
More details at www.participle.net
Flight paths over London - meeting 16 December
Meeting on flight paths over London on Thursday 16th December at City Hall, The Queen's Walk, London, SE1 2AA, Committee Room 4, from 5.30 pm to 7pm. The meeting, organized by HACAN, will be hosted and chaired by Val Shawcross, the GLA Assembly Member for Southwark and Lambeth and the Chair of the London Assembly’s Transport Committee. Two expert speakers will outline why, in recent years, aircraft noise has become a London-wide problem and look at possible solutions to minimizing it. There will be a lot of time for questions and discussion. Light refreshments available.
The meeting is timely as the Civil Aviation Authority is consulting on a new airspace policy for the UK which is expected to feed into the review by the Government of aviation policy starting next year.
Speakers at the Meeting:
Tim Johnston, Director Aviation Environment Federation
Max Dixon, former GLA Noise Officer; part-time adviser to the Mayor on noise issues
HACAN has published a new pamphlet on flight paths which will available at the meeting.
For more details about the meeting and/or HACAN, please contact John Stewart, Chair of HACAN on 07957385650
To plan your journey, go to http://journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk/
All visitors to City Hall are security searched on entry to the building
Limited accessible blue-badge parking is available and must be booked in advance
Full directional information and maps can be found on the Greater London Authority website www.london.gov.uk
The meeting is timely as the Civil Aviation Authority is consulting on a new airspace policy for the UK which is expected to feed into the review by the Government of aviation policy starting next year.
Speakers at the Meeting:
Tim Johnston, Director Aviation Environment Federation
Max Dixon, former GLA Noise Officer; part-time adviser to the Mayor on noise issues
HACAN has published a new pamphlet on flight paths which will available at the meeting.
For more details about the meeting and/or HACAN, please contact John Stewart, Chair of HACAN on 07957385650
To plan your journey, go to http://journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk/
All visitors to City Hall are security searched on entry to the building
Limited accessible blue-badge parking is available and must be booked in advance
Full directional information and maps can be found on the Greater London Authority website www.london.gov.uk
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Community based newsletter - contributions wanted
We received this from Andrea Stewart, regarding contributions to the next ‘Up Your Street’ round:
I am working on the local area newsletters – ‘Up your street’ - the next editions of which are due out in January. There are separate editions covering the town centre areas of Norwood, Clapham, Streatham, Brixton, Stockwell and North Lambeth.
We would really like to include some community based stories in these next ones, as we are aiming for the newsletters to become a community resource where different organisations and groups can promote their successes, events and initiatives to each other. This could be to let their neighbours know of important local issues or to encourage them to go along to events within their area. The fact that each household receives a copy of the tailored newsletter makes it a great way to get exposure to local residents. Those living in Lambeth will have received a copy back in September and hopefully found them a good read… We believe including some more community focussed stories would make them even more useful for our residents!
It would be great if organisations / contacts could contribute to these newsletters. We are looking for contributions to be with us by 15 November in order to put the newsletters together by the Christmas break. I would just ask that any article offers are not Christmas/New Year holiday related as these will be going out in mid-January.
I am more than happy to be contacted directly by anyone who would like to contribute to discuss any ideas or offer help in any way. The email address / phone number below are the best way to get in touch.
Many thanks for your help
Andrea
Andrea Stewart
Campaigns and Marketing Manager (CYPS)
Campaigns and Communications
Office of the Chief Executive
London Borough of Lambeth
t 020 7926 9765 | f 020 7926 9778
e astewart1@lambeth.gov.uk | w http://www.lambeth.gov.uk
7th Floor | International House | 6 Canterbury Crescent | London | SW9 7QE
I am working on the local area newsletters – ‘Up your street’ - the next editions of which are due out in January. There are separate editions covering the town centre areas of Norwood, Clapham, Streatham, Brixton, Stockwell and North Lambeth.
We would really like to include some community based stories in these next ones, as we are aiming for the newsletters to become a community resource where different organisations and groups can promote their successes, events and initiatives to each other. This could be to let their neighbours know of important local issues or to encourage them to go along to events within their area. The fact that each household receives a copy of the tailored newsletter makes it a great way to get exposure to local residents. Those living in Lambeth will have received a copy back in September and hopefully found them a good read… We believe including some more community focussed stories would make them even more useful for our residents!
It would be great if organisations / contacts could contribute to these newsletters. We are looking for contributions to be with us by 15 November in order to put the newsletters together by the Christmas break. I would just ask that any article offers are not Christmas/New Year holiday related as these will be going out in mid-January.
I am more than happy to be contacted directly by anyone who would like to contribute to discuss any ideas or offer help in any way. The email address / phone number below are the best way to get in touch.
Many thanks for your help
Andrea
Andrea Stewart
Campaigns and Marketing Manager (CYPS)
Campaigns and Communications
Office of the Chief Executive
London Borough of Lambeth
t 020 7926 9765 | f 020 7926 9778
e astewart1@lambeth.gov.uk | w http://www.lambeth.gov.uk
7th Floor | International House | 6 Canterbury Crescent | London | SW9 7QE
Sunday, 7 November 2010
Culture in Lambeth - consultation
Please visit www.lambeth.gov.uk/cultureconsultation to give your views and comments on a draft culture strategy. This includes sports and leisure facilities, tourism, parks and open spaces, heritage, museums, the arts, media, libraries, community buildings and creative industries.
New docking spaces for London Cycle Hire scheme
A further 100 docking points (spaces for bikes, not necessarily 100 docking stations) are wanted by late November this year, within the existing year. TfL say the the scheme works best when stations are approximately 300m from other docking stations. Please let Dawn Haines, Transport Policy Manager (dhaines@lambeth.gov.uk, 020 7926 9003) and your local councillor have your suggestions. Please note that before any sites can be implemented they have to go through both planning and traffic regulaton processes. Formal consultation is carrired out with those living in close proximity to sites.
Vote 3 B for Waterloo Action Centre!
Waterloo Action Centre, the buzzing community centre at the junction of Lower Marsh and Baylis Road, SE1, has been shortlisted for a £50,000 grant to revamp the building, in the Your Borough, Your Budget, Your Choice competition, organised by Lambeth Council. The decision will be made by public vote, closing 30 November. No other groups north of Brixton have been shortlisted, other than the London Nautical School, in Band 4.
Waterloo Action Centre is the only organisation in the competition providing activities for older people, and the only organisation in the competition providing FREE general advice, and FREE legal advice, and the service is available to Kennington, Oval and Vauxhall residents. Much much more is available at the centre, see www.waterlooactioncentre.co.uk or 7261 1404.
Let's help Waterloo Action Centre secure this funding! You can vote:
a) online at www.lambeth.gov.uk/yourchoice,
b) by texting 'Lambeth, your name, postcode/school and your choices e.g. 1b, 2c, 3b,
4a' to 07786 206 955,
c) by completing the FREEPOST voting card enclosed in Lambeth Life, delivered first
week in November or
d) call in at the community centre, 14 Baylis Road, SE1 7AA where spare voting cards are available.
Waterloo Action Centre is the only organisation in the competition providing activities for older people, and the only organisation in the competition providing FREE general advice, and FREE legal advice, and the service is available to Kennington, Oval and Vauxhall residents. Much much more is available at the centre, see www.waterlooactioncentre.co.uk or 7261 1404.
Let's help Waterloo Action Centre secure this funding! You can vote:
a) online at www.lambeth.gov.uk/yourchoice,
b) by texting 'Lambeth, your name, postcode/school and your choices e.g. 1b, 2c, 3b,
4a' to 07786 206 955,
c) by completing the FREEPOST voting card enclosed in Lambeth Life, delivered first
week in November or
d) call in at the community centre, 14 Baylis Road, SE1 7AA where spare voting cards are available.
Friday, 29 October 2010
Remembrance Day event 11 Nov 2010
Got a favourite poem of Remembrance?
Like to read it out or have it read for you?
Then email vauxhallcs@gmail.com about your choice ASAP, and next, come along to a Vauxhall Society event on Armistice Day, Thursday November 11 at 7pm.
You’ll also get a peek inside the historic Brunswick House, named after a former owner, the Duke of Brunswick, who was killed on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
The Vauxhall Society’s Remembrance Evening is being held in the Salon Room of Brunswick House, where Naomi Lourie Klein, Philippa Owen and Ross Davies will present a programme of poems and stories with a Vauxhall connection.
Admission is free, and open to non-members of the Society although a contribution towards Society funds is welcome.
Refreshments are available at the Brunswick House café before or after.
Brunswick House is now the London HQ of architectural antiques specialists LASSCO, and The Vauxhall Society’s Remembrance event is being held there through the generosity of LASSCO’s proprietor Adrian Amos.
Adrian, a Vauxhall Society member, is the saviour of Brunswick House, which had been on the English Heritage Buildings at Risk Register until he bought and renovated it.
www.vauxhallcivicsociety.org.uk
Like to read it out or have it read for you?
Then email vauxhallcs@gmail.com about your choice ASAP, and next, come along to a Vauxhall Society event on Armistice Day, Thursday November 11 at 7pm.
You’ll also get a peek inside the historic Brunswick House, named after a former owner, the Duke of Brunswick, who was killed on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
The Vauxhall Society’s Remembrance Evening is being held in the Salon Room of Brunswick House, where Naomi Lourie Klein, Philippa Owen and Ross Davies will present a programme of poems and stories with a Vauxhall connection.
Admission is free, and open to non-members of the Society although a contribution towards Society funds is welcome.
Refreshments are available at the Brunswick House café before or after.
Brunswick House is now the London HQ of architectural antiques specialists LASSCO, and The Vauxhall Society’s Remembrance event is being held there through the generosity of LASSCO’s proprietor Adrian Amos.
Adrian, a Vauxhall Society member, is the saviour of Brunswick House, which had been on the English Heritage Buildings at Risk Register until he bought and renovated it.
www.vauxhallcivicsociety.org.uk
Saturday, 16 October 2010
Forum meeting 1 November 2010
KOV Forum's next meeting will take place on 1 November, 6.30 for 7.00 pm start, at Vauxhall Gardens Community Centre (The Spring), 100 Vauxhall Walk, London SE11 5EL.
Agenda items include news about the former Lilian Baylis school site, improvements planned for Vauxhall overground station, and what a Co-operative Council means in practice.
All welcome! Free tea, coffee and biscuits! The meeting will end by 9.00 pm.
Agenda items include news about the former Lilian Baylis school site, improvements planned for Vauxhall overground station, and what a Co-operative Council means in practice.
All welcome! Free tea, coffee and biscuits! The meeting will end by 9.00 pm.
Sunday, 1 August 2010
Changing Vauxhall - Your Opportunity
Changing Vauxhall - Your Opportunity
The 2010 Community Expo
11th September 2010
12 – 5.00 p.m. Spring Gardens, Vauxhall
Kennington, Oval & Vauxhall Forum, together with the Friends of Spring Gardens and Vauxhall City Farm, are organising a community fun day with entertainment, exhibitions demonstrations and a market place for voluntary and community organisations. We would like you to take part.
We are celebrating the change of name of Spring Gardens back to Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. But also we are celebrating Vauxhall City Farm Open day. The gardens are undergoing change – the new entrance from Kennington Lane is under construction.
HERE IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY
The theme for the event is Changing Vauxhall - how it has changed, how it might change, and how you would wish it to change. Changing the environment, health, housing, educational opportunities etc. Tell officers what you would do with the S.106 money from any developments.
The event will provide opportunities for:
• promoting local volunteering,
• networking and information sharing
• engaging with the community
There will also be grants of £500 to North Lambeth organisations, to be decided by public vote at the event.
If you would like to be involved by:
• Taking a pitch
• Providing entertainment
• Applying for a grant
• Sponsoring the event
• Promoting the event to your members
• Family competitions
... then please let us know, ideally by 13th August, by email to forumkov@gmail.com
Kennington Oval and Vauxhall Forum
Organising the 2010 Expo in Vauxhall
The 2010 Community Expo
11th September 2010
12 – 5.00 p.m. Spring Gardens, Vauxhall
Kennington, Oval & Vauxhall Forum, together with the Friends of Spring Gardens and Vauxhall City Farm, are organising a community fun day with entertainment, exhibitions demonstrations and a market place for voluntary and community organisations. We would like you to take part.
We are celebrating the change of name of Spring Gardens back to Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. But also we are celebrating Vauxhall City Farm Open day. The gardens are undergoing change – the new entrance from Kennington Lane is under construction.
HERE IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY
The theme for the event is Changing Vauxhall - how it has changed, how it might change, and how you would wish it to change. Changing the environment, health, housing, educational opportunities etc. Tell officers what you would do with the S.106 money from any developments.
The event will provide opportunities for:
• promoting local volunteering,
• networking and information sharing
• engaging with the community
There will also be grants of £500 to North Lambeth organisations, to be decided by public vote at the event.
If you would like to be involved by:
• Taking a pitch
• Providing entertainment
• Applying for a grant
• Sponsoring the event
• Promoting the event to your members
• Family competitions
... then please let us know, ideally by 13th August, by email to forumkov@gmail.com
Kennington Oval and Vauxhall Forum
Organising the 2010 Expo in Vauxhall
Saturday, 8 May 2010
Our June meeting and AGM
Lambeth Police Borough Commander, Chief Inspector Nick Ephgrave, will be attending the next Forum meeting to outline police work in the Kennington Oval and Vauxhall area, and to listen to local concerns. The meeting will be at:
6.30 for 7.00 pm till 9.00 pm
on
8 June 2010
at
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
London SE11 5EL
The meeting will also be our AGM, where we elect a new Board. Nomination forms will be emailed/posted within a few days. Completed forms need to be returned by 28 May 2010. Although you can join KOV at any time, 8 May is the last day to join and be able to vote in the AGM.
6.30 for 7.00 pm till 9.00 pm
on
8 June 2010
at
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
London SE11 5EL
The meeting will also be our AGM, where we elect a new Board. Nomination forms will be emailed/posted within a few days. Completed forms need to be returned by 28 May 2010. Although you can join KOV at any time, 8 May is the last day to join and be able to vote in the AGM.
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
Meet the Candidates - Oval and Prince's Wards
All welcome at our “Meet the Candidates” evening on:
Thursday 29th April at
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
SE11 5EL
from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
The format will be 60 minutes of informal chatting, followed by 60 minutes in the form of a traditional hustings event. Members of the public will put questions to a panel formed by a max of one candidate per party.
The panel will be chaired by Maureen Johnston, Chair of the Kennington Oval and Vauxhall Forum.
Thursday 29th April at
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
SE11 5EL
from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
The format will be 60 minutes of informal chatting, followed by 60 minutes in the form of a traditional hustings event. Members of the public will put questions to a panel formed by a max of one candidate per party.
The panel will be chaired by Maureen Johnston, Chair of the Kennington Oval and Vauxhall Forum.
Thursday, 8 April 2010
Free microchipping for local cats and dogs 15 April, 4-6 pm
Lambeth Living working in conjunction with the RSPCA London South East Branch has arranged a
Free Microchipping Day
(CATS AND DOGS ONLY)
Clapham Housing Office
Worsopp Drive
London SW4
On Thursday 15 April 2010
4 pm to 6 pm
Micro-chipping will be done free of charge
(All donations gratefully received by RSPCA)
No appointment required
Please contact 07952 680 522 if you have any queries about micro-chipping
This project is supported by Lambeth Council Environmental Services
www.rspca-london-se.org.uk www.lambeth.gov.uk
www.lambethliving.org.uk
Free Microchipping Day
(CATS AND DOGS ONLY)
Clapham Housing Office
Worsopp Drive
London SW4
On Thursday 15 April 2010
4 pm to 6 pm
Micro-chipping will be done free of charge
(All donations gratefully received by RSPCA)
No appointment required
Please contact 07952 680 522 if you have any queries about micro-chipping
This project is supported by Lambeth Council Environmental Services
www.rspca-london-se.org.uk www.lambeth.gov.uk
www.lambethliving.org.uk
Monday, 5 April 2010
Farmer's Market at the Oval Churchyard
From the Oval Partnership:
The Farmers' Market in the Oval Churchyard may be muddy but it's thriving and providing great produce for local people. If the bad weather's put you off for a while, now's the time to get back in the Saturday shopping habit. You'll find the ever popular coffee stall, crepes and cheese toasties, along with very fresh fish, meat, vegetables, bread and cakes and other produce. Why not make the market a habit - and bring your friends and continue to help build our neighbourhood.
Oval Partnership's been busy working on plans to improve the Farmers' Market site along with the rest of the Oval Churchyard. We want the area to become a welcoming focus for our area, not just for the market, but for the rest of the week too. We've raised initial funds and appointed specialist landscape architects who will advise us on how to make the most of the space. They're just starting work now.
We want to hear what you think of the market and how you would like to see the space develop - your ideas will be useful to the architects. We'll be around the coffee stall at the Farmers' Market on Saturday 17 April from 10.30 to 1pm so come and find us for a chat or email your ideas and comments to contactovalpartnership@googlemail.com.
See you there!
The Farmers' Market in the Oval Churchyard may be muddy but it's thriving and providing great produce for local people. If the bad weather's put you off for a while, now's the time to get back in the Saturday shopping habit. You'll find the ever popular coffee stall, crepes and cheese toasties, along with very fresh fish, meat, vegetables, bread and cakes and other produce. Why not make the market a habit - and bring your friends and continue to help build our neighbourhood.
Oval Partnership's been busy working on plans to improve the Farmers' Market site along with the rest of the Oval Churchyard. We want the area to become a welcoming focus for our area, not just for the market, but for the rest of the week too. We've raised initial funds and appointed specialist landscape architects who will advise us on how to make the most of the space. They're just starting work now.
We want to hear what you think of the market and how you would like to see the space develop - your ideas will be useful to the architects. We'll be around the coffee stall at the Farmers' Market on Saturday 17 April from 10.30 to 1pm so come and find us for a chat or email your ideas and comments to contactovalpartnership@googlemail.com.
See you there!
Monday, 29 March 2010
Forum's June 2010 meeting
The Forum's AGM will be on Tuesday 8 June, 6.30 for 7.00 pm. Venue to be confirmed nearer the time. All welcome. Please put date in your diaries!
Next Forum meeting 13 April 2010
The next KOV Forum meeting will be on 13 April 2010, 6.30 for 7.00 pm at:
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
SE11 5EL
Items to be covered include:
* Vauxhall Island Site - an outline of proposals. Views wanted about key issues locally
* Octave Tower - application rejected
* Beautifying the Beaufoy - Project Dirt's proposals
* Status Dogs - Lambeth Council's proposals for action
* Planning Department' consultation database
Everyone welcome!
The Spring Community Centre
100 Vauxhall Walk
SE11 5EL
Items to be covered include:
* Vauxhall Island Site - an outline of proposals. Views wanted about key issues locally
* Octave Tower - application rejected
* Beautifying the Beaufoy - Project Dirt's proposals
* Status Dogs - Lambeth Council's proposals for action
* Planning Department' consultation database
Everyone welcome!
KOV's submission on Vauxall Planning Framework
A number of excellent detailed responses have already been made by several local organisations. Maureen Johnston MBE, as Chair of KOV Forum, has submitted this summary of points made by local people at our two public meetings:
Vauxhall & Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Framework Consultation March 2010
Kennington, Oval & Vauxhall (KOV) Forum is a non political umbrella group bringing together local organisations, businesses and residents in the North Lambeth area (between Lambeth Road, Kennington Park Road, Camberwell New Road, Harleyford Road and the river Thames.
The Forum hosted two public consultation meetings in January and February 2010 which were attended by approximately 200 people. Outlined below are the main areas of concern and support identified by community organisations, residents and businesses at the meetings, in response to the presentation by planners from the Greater London Authority.
Concerns
• Tall buildings would cast Vauxhall Park and existing homes into shade, particularly if located as proposed.
• Lack of blue collar jobs and training opportunities for local people.
• Much too dense – Not enough open space. Overcrowding when fully developed.
• The number of planning applications already granted without the appropriate infrastructure in place i.e. transport, health care, recreational facilities and education and utility services.
• No plans to tackle the current high level of air pollution around Vauxhall Cross, which will only increase.
• Extension of Northern Line will not serve those currently using it and will only add to existing overcrowding. It is already difficult to get on trains at Oval and Kennington.
• No apparent attempt to integrate the area with land to the East especially Vauxhall Park. All connections are to the river and towards Westminster instead of towards conservation areas such as the Duchy Estate. No tie in with the congestion boundary along Kennington Lane which needs regeneration.
• Concerns that there will be traffic restrictions because of the location of the American Embassy and heavy handed policing.
• Concerns that access to the river will be denied, especially around the American Embassy.
• Lack of basic green recreational space – gardens on roof tops will not help a family with small children.
• No planning for extending the cultural activities of the Southbank down to Vauxhall and no cultural hub
• Real need for a swimming pool in the area
• Concentration on workforce at the expense of the family
• Not enough affordable housing proposed in good locations.
• No regard for biodiversity and ecology
Support
• Green corridor, in principle, but it must be public space rather than private gardens, and of sufficient size for recreational purposes.
• Renewed look at the Vauxhall gyratory system, which is currently unfriendly to pedestrians, residents and cyclists alike.
• Redevelopment of Vauxhall Station.
• Renewed look at the bus station.
• Redevelopment of Covent Garden Market.
Vauxhall & Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Framework Consultation March 2010
Kennington, Oval & Vauxhall (KOV) Forum is a non political umbrella group bringing together local organisations, businesses and residents in the North Lambeth area (between Lambeth Road, Kennington Park Road, Camberwell New Road, Harleyford Road and the river Thames.
The Forum hosted two public consultation meetings in January and February 2010 which were attended by approximately 200 people. Outlined below are the main areas of concern and support identified by community organisations, residents and businesses at the meetings, in response to the presentation by planners from the Greater London Authority.
Concerns
• Tall buildings would cast Vauxhall Park and existing homes into shade, particularly if located as proposed.
• Lack of blue collar jobs and training opportunities for local people.
• Much too dense – Not enough open space. Overcrowding when fully developed.
• The number of planning applications already granted without the appropriate infrastructure in place i.e. transport, health care, recreational facilities and education and utility services.
• No plans to tackle the current high level of air pollution around Vauxhall Cross, which will only increase.
• Extension of Northern Line will not serve those currently using it and will only add to existing overcrowding. It is already difficult to get on trains at Oval and Kennington.
• No apparent attempt to integrate the area with land to the East especially Vauxhall Park. All connections are to the river and towards Westminster instead of towards conservation areas such as the Duchy Estate. No tie in with the congestion boundary along Kennington Lane which needs regeneration.
• Concerns that there will be traffic restrictions because of the location of the American Embassy and heavy handed policing.
• Concerns that access to the river will be denied, especially around the American Embassy.
• Lack of basic green recreational space – gardens on roof tops will not help a family with small children.
• No planning for extending the cultural activities of the Southbank down to Vauxhall and no cultural hub
• Real need for a swimming pool in the area
• Concentration on workforce at the expense of the family
• Not enough affordable housing proposed in good locations.
• No regard for biodiversity and ecology
Support
• Green corridor, in principle, but it must be public space rather than private gardens, and of sufficient size for recreational purposes.
• Renewed look at the Vauxhall gyratory system, which is currently unfriendly to pedestrians, residents and cyclists alike.
• Redevelopment of Vauxhall Station.
• Renewed look at the bus station.
• Redevelopment of Covent Garden Market.
Cycle stands at Kennington Cross
Good news!
The six bicycle stands requested by KOV for Kennington Cross have been fitted today and are available now, outside the Dog House pub.
The six bicycle stands requested by KOV for Kennington Cross have been fitted today and are available now, outside the Dog House pub.
Sunday, 28 March 2010
VNEB Opportunity Area Planning Framework
from Viva Vauxhall:
This has crept up on us a bit with all the furore over the Octave Tower, but it's still not too late to object! (Deadline 29 March).
If the GLA's VNEB (Vauxhall, New Elms, Battersea) Opportunity Area Framework is adopted, this will open the floodgates not just for a few tall buildings, but effectively a new town on the edge of Central London with the highest population density in the UK.
There will be an anticipated 16.000 additional dwellings and approx. 20.000 office workers coming into the area over the next 15 years with no extra public funds for infrastructure such as transport, schools, green spaces etc. other than what can be generated from planning gain - some of which the Mayor will want for Cross Rail (this will not even service this area).
Local Council Planning Laws appear to either being watered down or superseded by the new GLA Framework, which doesn't even meet the Mayor's own Plan Objectives!
There is a frightening lack of absence of any coherent strategy, seemingly allowing a complete 'free for all' for developers!
Object to the Framework by Monday, 5pm, by e-mailing mayor@london.gov.uk with "VNEB OAPF" in the subject line.
This has crept up on us a bit with all the furore over the Octave Tower, but it's still not too late to object! (Deadline 29 March).
If the GLA's VNEB (Vauxhall, New Elms, Battersea) Opportunity Area Framework is adopted, this will open the floodgates not just for a few tall buildings, but effectively a new town on the edge of Central London with the highest population density in the UK.
There will be an anticipated 16.000 additional dwellings and approx. 20.000 office workers coming into the area over the next 15 years with no extra public funds for infrastructure such as transport, schools, green spaces etc. other than what can be generated from planning gain - some of which the Mayor will want for Cross Rail (this will not even service this area).
Local Council Planning Laws appear to either being watered down or superseded by the new GLA Framework, which doesn't even meet the Mayor's own Plan Objectives!
There is a frightening lack of absence of any coherent strategy, seemingly allowing a complete 'free for all' for developers!
Object to the Framework by Monday, 5pm, by e-mailing mayor@london.gov.uk with "VNEB OAPF" in the subject line.
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Octave tower comes crashing down...
By Pete Morris of Viva Vauxhall
The planning application for the 149m Octave tower on the Bondway storage site was rejected last night. In a stunning victory for local campaigners, the planning committee slammed the bulk and height of the tower, the negative impact on the Vauxhall Conservation Area, loss of amenity for residents and loss of local employment space.
There was an impressive turnout of objectors, including Viva Vauxhalls¹s Jimmy and Andrea as well as contributions from Cllr Sawdon, Kennington Association, Waterloo Community Development Group and the Friends of Vauxhall Park.
Councillors accused the developer - which has already announced it¹s intention to appeal - of giving ³two fingers² to residents and the planning committee in its macho response, and its refusal to tone down the scheme after an earlier critical meeting.
The decision appears to mark a fight-back against the drift towards a Œhigh-rise¹ Vauxhall, and the planning committee said that it was concerned that developers did not appear to be taking into account the social impact of their schemes.
The application will now be heard later in the year at a full public planning inquiry.
The planning application for the 149m Octave tower on the Bondway storage site was rejected last night. In a stunning victory for local campaigners, the planning committee slammed the bulk and height of the tower, the negative impact on the Vauxhall Conservation Area, loss of amenity for residents and loss of local employment space.
There was an impressive turnout of objectors, including Viva Vauxhalls¹s Jimmy and Andrea as well as contributions from Cllr Sawdon, Kennington Association, Waterloo Community Development Group and the Friends of Vauxhall Park.
Councillors accused the developer - which has already announced it¹s intention to appeal - of giving ³two fingers² to residents and the planning committee in its macho response, and its refusal to tone down the scheme after an earlier critical meeting.
The decision appears to mark a fight-back against the drift towards a Œhigh-rise¹ Vauxhall, and the planning committee said that it was concerned that developers did not appear to be taking into account the social impact of their schemes.
The application will now be heard later in the year at a full public planning inquiry.
Monday, 22 March 2010
Octave Building, Planning Committee 24 March 2010
Andrea from Viva Vauxhall has rung Democratic Services to request to speak at the planning meeting for the Octave on 24 March, and was told that everybody who requested to speak at the meeting will be allowed to do so.
They also said that the position on the agenda depended on how many people had requested to speak, so the more people do, the further The Octave moves up the agenda.
This is the number to ring if you wish to speak: 020 7926 2183; quick and easy, no fuss (only an out-of office reply to my e-mail so far).
You don't have to say much, just one sentence will do - and you can still make a real difference!
They also said that the position on the agenda depended on how many people had requested to speak, so the more people do, the further The Octave moves up the agenda.
This is the number to ring if you wish to speak: 020 7926 2183; quick and easy, no fuss (only an out-of office reply to my e-mail so far).
You don't have to say much, just one sentence will do - and you can still make a real difference!
Thursday, 18 March 2010
From Viva Vauxhall:
As you may have heard there is a planned proposal to build a 150m high tower in Vauxhall (Bondway Commercial site next to the bus station).
Letters have gone out to those who objected to the original planned proposal giving notice that the date for the planning decision by the Lambeth Planning Application Committee has now been set for 24 March.
The recommendation for this application is to 'Minded to Grant Permission'.
The proposed Octave Tower is yet another major high rise development to be granted planning permission before the end of the consultation period for the VNEB Opportunity Area Framework, which proposes clusters of tall buildings (benchmark 150 m) of the Vauxhall, Nine Elms and Battersea area.
One has to suspect that despite the limited public consultation regarding the Octave Tower this is yet another foregone conclusion.
However, the Planning Application Committee meeting is open for anyone to attend. Objectors who wish to speak at the meeting can request to do so by contacting mmannion@lambeth.gov.uk or 020 7926 2183 (Town Hall, Brixton Hill, SW2 1RW).
Speakers get three minutes to speak, if anyone feels that way inclined; it is also possible to propose a representative to speak on behalf of a group, who may get more time allocated to them.
But it's the people in the public gallery that can make a real difference by making their feelings known.
There is also still time to sign Viva Vauxhall's petition against the Octave Tower.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-to-octave-tower.html
As you may have heard there is a planned proposal to build a 150m high tower in Vauxhall (Bondway Commercial site next to the bus station).
Letters have gone out to those who objected to the original planned proposal giving notice that the date for the planning decision by the Lambeth Planning Application Committee has now been set for 24 March.
The recommendation for this application is to 'Minded to Grant Permission'.
The proposed Octave Tower is yet another major high rise development to be granted planning permission before the end of the consultation period for the VNEB Opportunity Area Framework, which proposes clusters of tall buildings (benchmark 150 m) of the Vauxhall, Nine Elms and Battersea area.
One has to suspect that despite the limited public consultation regarding the Octave Tower this is yet another foregone conclusion.
However, the Planning Application Committee meeting is open for anyone to attend. Objectors who wish to speak at the meeting can request to do so by contacting mmannion@lambeth.gov.uk or 020 7926 2183 (Town Hall, Brixton Hill, SW2 1RW).
Speakers get three minutes to speak, if anyone feels that way inclined; it is also possible to propose a representative to speak on behalf of a group, who may get more time allocated to them.
But it's the people in the public gallery that can make a real difference by making their feelings known.
There is also still time to sign Viva Vauxhall's petition against the Octave Tower.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-to-octave-tower.html
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Vauxhall Planning Framework
Comments on the Vauxhall Planning Framework, otherwise known as the Vauxhall, Nine Elms, Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework, can now be submitted to mayor@london.gov.uk up to 5.00 p.m. on 29 March.
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Petition against the Octave Tower, Vauxhall
Viva Vauxhall has set up an online petition against the proposed Octave Tower (to be built on the Bondway site, next to the Vauxhall Bus Station).
Link: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-to-octave-tower.html
Link: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-to-octave-tower.html
Saturday, 13 February 2010
Public Exhibition : The Garden, at New Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market Authority (CGMA)is hosting a second exhibition about its plans for The Garden at New Covent Garden Market.
The exhibition will be in a dedicated marquee located at the Market close to Vauxhall Station and will be open at the following times:
Thursday 25 February 6.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Friday 26 February 5.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Saturday 27 February 6.00 a.m. - 4.00 pm
This is your chance to see the latest designs, ask any questions you may have and let CGMA know what you think of the plans. These include new homes, shops, offices and community facilities, all built on the current Market site.
For more information, or to request a leaflet about the plans:
Visit: www.newcoventgardenmarket.com
Email: the garden@cgma.co.uk
Call : 0800 977 8794
The exhibition will be in a dedicated marquee located at the Market close to Vauxhall Station and will be open at the following times:
Thursday 25 February 6.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Friday 26 February 5.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Saturday 27 February 6.00 a.m. - 4.00 pm
This is your chance to see the latest designs, ask any questions you may have and let CGMA know what you think of the plans. These include new homes, shops, offices and community facilities, all built on the current Market site.
For more information, or to request a leaflet about the plans:
Visit: www.newcoventgardenmarket.com
Email: the garden@cgma.co.uk
Call : 0800 977 8794
Sunday, 24 January 2010
Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea - Opportunity Area Planning Framework -
http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor/planning/oapf-nine-elms/index.jsp
The consultation deadline for comments on the GLA's draft planning framework has been extended till 5.00 pm on 28 February.
Here's the extract from the GLA website.
"Have your say
"The consultation draft Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework is open for public comment until 28 February 2010. Please get back to us in writing, and make sure you explain which paragraph and page of the document you are referring to in your comments.
"You can send your views by email or by post:
"by email to mayor@london.gov.uk with 'VNEB OAPF' in the title. If you send in a response by email it is not necessary to also send us a hard copy.
by post (no stamp required) to:
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London
(VNEB OAPF)
FREEPOST LON15799
GLA City Hall, post point 19B
The Queen's Walk
London SE1 2BR
All responses (emails and letters) must be received by 5:00 pm on 28 February 2010."
Kennington, Oval and Vauxhall Forum will be holding a special meeting to discuss this at 7 pm, 10 February 2010 at St Peters' Church, 310 Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY (corner of Tyers St). All welcome!
The consultation deadline for comments on the GLA's draft planning framework has been extended till 5.00 pm on 28 February.
Here's the extract from the GLA website.
"Have your say
"The consultation draft Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework is open for public comment until 28 February 2010. Please get back to us in writing, and make sure you explain which paragraph and page of the document you are referring to in your comments.
"You can send your views by email or by post:
"by email to mayor@london.gov.uk with 'VNEB OAPF' in the title. If you send in a response by email it is not necessary to also send us a hard copy.
by post (no stamp required) to:
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London
(VNEB OAPF)
FREEPOST LON15799
GLA City Hall, post point 19B
The Queen's Walk
London SE1 2BR
All responses (emails and letters) must be received by 5:00 pm on 28 February 2010."
Kennington, Oval and Vauxhall Forum will be holding a special meeting to discuss this at 7 pm, 10 February 2010 at St Peters' Church, 310 Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY (corner of Tyers St). All welcome!
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
KOV Forum meeting 19 January 2010
Kennington, Oval and Vauxhall Forum will meet in:
Montgomery Hall
58 Kennington Oval
SE11 5SW
on 19 January 2010. Doors open 19.00 for 19.30 start.
This is a public meeting and everyone living or working in Kennington, Oval or Vauxhall will be very welcome. Refreshments will be available at the start of the meeting.
The meeting will have presentations and opportunities for you to have your say on:
Vauxhall, Nine Elms, Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework - What it could mean for Vauxhall, what you think of it?
Plans to enhance St Anselm's Church
Crime issues and actions in the KOV area - the Police will be in attendance
The latest news from Lambeth Council on the Beaufoy Institute and Lilian Baylis (former school) site
News from local community groups
Montgomery Hall
58 Kennington Oval
SE11 5SW
on 19 January 2010. Doors open 19.00 for 19.30 start.
This is a public meeting and everyone living or working in Kennington, Oval or Vauxhall will be very welcome. Refreshments will be available at the start of the meeting.
The meeting will have presentations and opportunities for you to have your say on:
Vauxhall, Nine Elms, Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework - What it could mean for Vauxhall, what you think of it?
Plans to enhance St Anselm's Church
Crime issues and actions in the KOV area - the Police will be in attendance
The latest news from Lambeth Council on the Beaufoy Institute and Lilian Baylis (former school) site
News from local community groups
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