Clapton's "Old Tram Depot" UNDER THREAT AGAIN

Below is a small poster (approx A5) you may want to download

Right click & select "Save as" or "Open link in new window" to see it full size then "Save as".

HOW TO OBJECT

1. ONLINE

The easiest way to object or comment is online at this link:

COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION 

see the standard letter below to cut & paste

.....

Just to confirm, the application no. is 2009/2490

The planning officer is Ian Bailey

Phone: 020 8356 8442 • Fax: 020 8356 8087

Email: ian.bailey@hackney.gov.uk

NB: When you object make sure you leave your name and contact details.

Without both your comments/objections will not be registered.

.....

2. WRITE 

You can write to Ian Bailey at:

Ian Bailey

Hackney Neighbourhoods & Regeneration,

Planning Service,

2 Hillman St, Hackney E8 1FB.

OR

Ian Bailey

Hackney Neighbourhoods & Regeneration,

 Planning Service,

 Planning Duty Desk

 275 Mare Street

 E8 1GR

(Ian is in the process of moving to the main offices on Mare St so you can also write to him via the duty desk)

Make sure you give

1. Your name

2. Your address (ideally give your ph or email as well)

 .......

3. EMAIL
ian.bailey@hackney.gov.uk  

again, make sure you give your name and address 

I recommend you start with something along the lines of 

"Re: 38-40 Upper Clapton Rd

(The Old Tram Depot)

Application No. 2009/2490

Dear Mr Bailey, I object to this planning application (2009/2490) because...."

 .......

SEE THE (new 10/12/09) STANDARD LETTER BELOW

You can copy and paste part or all of it.

 .......

You'll find all the planning documents submitted in support of the application at this link:

2009/2490 supporting documents & plans 

 .......

There's a lot there and some quite big files so I've compressed the most revealing and bound them together in one med size pdf and one single document pdf which you can download here at this link:

Additional info Planning app doc 28737.pdf 

and the binder with several documents at this link:

Binder 1 Tram Depot planning app docs.pdf

 .......

STANDARD LETTER

to copy and paste, in part or full:

Dear Mr Bailey,

I am writing to object in the strongest possible terms to the proposed demolition of the
Tram Depot site,
38-40 Upper Clapton Rd
Application no 2009/2490.

These are the principle objections:

1. The demolition will lose Hackney people their jobs (over 100)

The current site is a busy and active working site, with every single space used. Such spaces that have all but disappeared in Hackney, and as a result of compulsory Olympic purchases, in East London generally, but are perfect for a wide range of manufacturing industries.

The proposals completely underestimate the number of people employed on the site, and the kind of work they do cannot take place in the proposed light usage spaces envisaged in the application. The closure of such business would have a knock-on effect to cause substantial direct and indirect job losses.

2. The loss of artists to the community

The site houses the only remaining active group of artists and designers left in North Hackney—the rest have already been evicted from nearby sites to make way for new build housing. Artists and creative industries are important to communities. There are over 20 active artists who use the units as their studios, and one space, the Tram Depot gallery has a successful track record of innovative exhibitions open to the local as well as art-specialist community. The loss of the 3 art galleries, sculptors, designers and artists as well as the craftspeople is something we don't want to see.
For example, Vulpus Vulpus art gallery and artwork space has numerous and frequent exhibits, projects and events and supports a large number of young artists  - on a shoe string - and would inevitably be forced to close.


3. Light blockage and overlooking

The proposed build will set a poor precedent physically, in terms of its height.
Many private homes & gardens in Casimir and Cleveleys roads would be overlooked, depriving those residents of their privacy.
The seven & six storey blocks are especially too high


4. Density too high

Leabridge already has 3 new local large scale developments, increasing local population density way above the London average.
Being the nearest estate Beecholme is likely to end up with the kids overflow and increased anti-social behaviour but the whole neighbourhood will be affected.

 Hackney Strategy, Policy & Research's "Index of Multiple Deprivation" already gauges Leabridge as the 41st most deprived ward in London and among the 20% most deprived in the country with much less green space and far more domestic buildings than Hackney and London as a whole.

5. Local amenities stretched to breaking point

Our local badly stretched amenities such as nurseries, schools and doctors surgeries in the area would be stretched even more.
How long would these 200+ new residents (92 new 1 to 4 bed flats) have to wait (or how far would they have to go) to find a GP or a school place?

6. Traffic and car parking

Such a large development with the introduction of 50 car parking sites with additional commercial vehicles using the padestrian trip so close to the Lea Bridge Roundabout is also a recipe for even worse traffic congestion on one of the most important outward hub to the East and the M12.

7. Loss of our heritage and historic buildings

The Tram Depot is one of the few historic building left in the local area and worth saving.
The retention of barely three of the original walls is cynical at best – it pretends to retain some of the structure but in fact guts the main building, in the process completely altering the nature of the internal spaces, making them no longer fit for the purpose they now enjoy.
I want the area to have some character in 50 years.

To summarise, this application should be rejected.

It will add nothing to the community, cause only problems, and is fuelled purely by a get rich quick mentality rather than any sensitivity to the needs of the people that live and work in the area.


Regards,
your name,
your address
email

NOTE: The Depot was on “London Heritage at Risk” radar last year but coincidentally as the last planning app was refused, there was a change of senior staff plus some IT changes and the depot’s updated details were not processed. I’m currently trying to clarify the situation.

 ....... 

THIS WAS LAST OCTOBER:

NOTHING MUCH HAS CHANGED IN THE CRITICAL AREAS OF HEIGHT OR NO OF FLATS

In fact, this year the Upper Clapton Road end has gone up from 6 to 7 storeys! .
...

If you scroll down you'll see all the Tram Depot objections from last year and the year before

,,,

 .......

more to come - check back later.

 

ELFA £3 a week box of FRUIT and VEG to your door offer

I've just finished the leaflet below, meant to be a "Z" fold.

If you're over 50, the ELFA (East London Food Access) is

offering to deliver a box or fruit and veg to your door for as little as £3 aweek.

The offer covers virtually all of NE Hackney
(see the back spread below for details - click on the image(s) to see it full size)


That is to say, £3 worth is the minimum order.

Here's the front cover:

and the back cover
(with the leaflet the front and back covers match up as 1 pic):

Here's the inside spread:




and finally the back spread:





I arranged the fruit and veg in the photo on and in the leaflet.
I just grabbed the produce from their stand at the Nightingale estate that was for sale so I can vouch for the quality.

Millfields Pk Nth Play Area + UPDATE: MEETING on Wed 16 Dec 7pm

UPDATE

The planners have listened to residents and have

REFUSED PLANNING PERMISSION

...

However there is a further

MEETING

With the planner, the designer, our councillors, police and local residents at

the Alf Partridge Hall

on the bottom corner of Prout Rd

at 7pm on Wed 16th December

..

to try and find a new site or resolve the issues.

NEW POSTER for WED 16th DEC:

(click on it to see it full size)

...

Below - about previous meeting & background info


THE MEETING
is about the proposed play area (pictured above) for Millfields Park Nth
top corner of Casimir Rd & the Beecholme estate.

All interested parties will be there including:
The Millfields Park Users Group rep, Hackney Parks Dept rep, the Play Area designer/architect, our councillors and residents.

The meeting was called to see if together we might address concerns about anti-social behaviour and security at the play area, being without supervision or the ability to be secured at night.
Due to the steep banking, much of the area is out of sight and the fact that there are dens to get out of sight may well attract drug & drink users.

NOTE: There's a lot more about the play area about 5 or 6 articles below

My thoughts on the subject

It is an unfortunate fact that virtually all of the states children are not allowed onto the park alone. Their parents prefer to be able to see them from their windows.

Except for the sunniest days when the park is well used, the only unaccompanied youngsters you do see there are some of the worst elements of our youth.
The fact these kids are the product of irresponsible or incapable parents is beside the point.

The threat or fear of being bullied, threatened or abused at best and being offered drugs, mugged or stabbed at worst is enough to make the park off limits most of the time for most children.
For young people between 12 and 18 the threat is real as well. My son has been mugged twice just walking through the park in the evening in the last 3 years. There was a child stabbed by another at the lower park play area last year.

For youger kids, even accompanied by parents there's the problem of dog dirt as well. Parents want to make sure the ground is relatively clear of such mess and the long grass proposed could hide a multitude of sins.

All that said, I think the play area design is great and kids would love if they knew they could play there in an air of safety.

That means full time supervision.

At the very least the are needs to be able to be locked up at night.
Why was it fine for Parks to have a full time staff of 35 including a live in warden for Millfields up until a few years ago but now we have one overstretched warden for 2 whole parks? and a total park warden staff of 5 or 7?

With higher population density the need for good parks is even greater, so why haven't they been afforded the priority they deserve?

It beats me - it's crazy.
There's even a Park Wardens House on Millfields left empty.

 Why not come to the meeting and have your say.
Leave a comment here as well.

.....



The poster for the last meeting on Dec 8th - quick but tells the story none the less:

New exhibits at VULPUS, the Community Cafe , Lwr Clapton Rd and Hackney Lib

...

...
The exhibition will run from 19th to 22nd November
open 11 - 6 each day
...
Vulpes Vulpes, Unit 4, Prout Road, Clapton, London. E5 9NP.
..
You are invited to Vulpes Vulpes for a Ceylan Projects event
on Wednesday the 18th of November, 6 - 9 pm.
...
Ceylan Projects is pleased to present Magic & Happiness, a group show curated by Aliina Astrova around an essay by Giorgio Agamben.
...
'Whatever we can achieve through merit and effort, cannot make us truly happy. <...> What a disaster if a woman loved you because you deserved it! <...> [T]here is only one way of achieving happiness on this earth: to believe in the divine and not to aspire to reach it (there is an ironic variation of this in a conversation between Franz Kafka and Gustav Janouch, when Kafka affirms that there is plenty of hope - but not for us). That apparently ascetic thesis becomes intelligible only if we understand the meaning of this "not for us". It means not that happiness is reserved only for others (happiness is, precisely, for us) but that it awaits us only at the point where it was not destined for us. That is: happiness can be ours only though magic.'

- Giorgio Agamben,
...
Magic and Happiness Famous for his original readings and interpretation of texts, Giorgio Agamben is a contemporary Italian philosopher. His work, be it political theory or his early essays on art, stems from an interest in the relationship between the notions of work and happiness. Magic and Happiness, from which this exhibition takes its name and vocation, is an essay that brings Agamben's thought to its very roots and now more than ever appears as a strikingly accurate criticism of the modern condition. In a moment where currencies like merit and effort are devalued precisely because they no longer stand as guarantee for the Western ideal of happiness, we are once again to reconsider what happiness is and how to achieve it.
...

Magic & Happiness group show showcases new work by seven artists - Ben Caton, Stan Iordanov, Ed Lehan, Roy Nnawuchi, Anna Margrethe Pedersen, Ben Schumacher, Emma Sheridan, who have challenged mainstream perception of happiness through different mediums including sculpture, installation, painting and sound. The work is as naive as it is cynical expressing both fascination and distrust towards the decadence of contemporary culture.
... ...


... ...
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exhibition VIBRANT!
...
...
.. Thursday, 01 October 2009 - Tuesday, 01 December 2009
.. which focuses on natural beauty designed to lift the spirits and warm the heart!! This event is part of Photomonth sponsored by Alternative Arts It's being hosted
at
the Community Cafe, Salvation Army building,
122-124 Lower Clapton Road E5 OQR
...

020 8985 3902 c/o Ruth Gray.
It is free and very colourful
...
<<>>
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... ...
...
;;;
The exhibition is entitled

"THROUGH MY EYES"

As part of the East London Photomonth festival
...
photos at Hackney Central Library from 2nd - 28th November 2009.
...
...
The images portray some of the emotions of entrapment, fear and isolation and also question what the law makers in this country are doing to tackle it! This exhibition aims to raise public awareness and reassure those who are experiencing it that they are not alone.
...
As part of the exhibition the Library will host an information day on Wednesday November 11th to raise public awareness about domestic violence from 2-4pm, followed by a private view from 6-7pm to which we would like to invite you, friend, family, colleagues and sister agencies!
...
..
..
Tel: 020 8356 3000
info@hackney.gov.uk
..
http://www.hackney.gov.uk/cl-hackney-central-main.htm
...
...

...

The design process + Download my new Adobe Acrobat 9 PORTFOLIO

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The Design Process
(as with all pics, right click and select Open link in new tab/window to see it full size)

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My new portfolio - Acrobat 9 pro

...
click on the image above or this link:
...
PRO PORTFOLIO
...
...
NOTE: Just download it from the site - it will not open to view there.

NOV 29th - I've just updated this with my latest work - now 3.37mb 
..

...
...
Once you have downloaded it to your desktop
...
If you don't have Adobe Acrobat 9, the portfolio's first page will give the opportunity to download one free.
...
To see a piece full size first click on the centre thumbnail, then the "Page" symbol (indicated in the inset above, which will have turned dark blue).
...
To return to the revolving thumbnail view simply click on the "Home" symbol
(indicated in the inset - top left).
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I hope you enjoy using this rather better portfolio than is avialable online.
...

eTRA meeting 19th Nov '09 + Estate notes + new play area UPDATED 7th Nov

PLEASE COMMENT or OBJECT
TO THE PROPOSED PLAY AREA PLANNING APPLICATION
FULL DETAILS BELOW
DEADLINE WED 11 NOV.
....


The poster artwork above is A3 - if you open it in another window then click on it, it will come up full size.


The meeting is at the "Alf Partridge Community Hall" on the corner of Prout Rd at 7pm on the 19th Nov '09.

This one is an "Enhanced" TRA meeting Meaning our Pinnacle estate manager, Hackney Homes officers and cllr Linda Kelly will be there. I look forward to the TRA welcoming our new estate manager Marcia Campbell.

<<>>

Don't forget to check The Clapton Residents Panel website's 10 pages full of news
useful info, contacts & links for all your housing issues
plus a selection of over 100 desktop images - now "DOWNLOADS" has Best FREE applications & Web Resources plus Essential FREE Software as well:

THE CLAPTON PANEL

(constructed and edited by yours truly)

<<>>

Estate Notes

The wardens will no longer be holding a Wed surgery at Beecholme.

Wardens:
Nowell Bell: 0777 222 7424
Kester Benjamin 0777 222 7524

<<>>

THE LIFT LOBBY

The lift lobby will be getting a floor covering very soon. We have the grant so funds are in place. It's just a matter of actually making the final decision of type of covering, then ordering it.
Not as straightforward as you might think. I have a dozen samples of vinyl and carpet tiles.
Both run the risk of damage by cigarette burns and spills of everything from paint to cooking oil, hence tiles as they can be cheap enough to replace again and again.

I've talked to the cleaning staff and the depot manager and personally tend towards a patterned stain resistant carpet tile with possible a carpet protection strip running just between the entrance and the lift door. It might be easier to just replace the tiles when damaged.

The one thing no one has advised me on yet is the public liability insurance and whether carpeting in the lobby is covered. As soon as I find out I'll make the decision and go ahead.
See other lift lobby posts below.

I'm currently waiting for confirmation of the flame resisitance code the carpet has to meet - EN 13501-2002 or a newer or higher spec one (if one exists).

If you have an opinion please do contact me:
David White (Sec B&C TRA)
at the meeting or email:
david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

<<>>

THE BIN ARTWORK

The bin artwork - the backs now uncovered will be covered as soon as I get a chance to apply it. I am still waiting for the cactus design with the brickwork backgrounds to be printed but I do have all the leaves on grass ones. I'll need a hand so might ask you to help if you're a resident.

<<>>

THE NEW PLAY AREA

The new play area on the corner Millfields Park Nth, opposite stairwell to no 10-15 - should be going to planning very soon as it needs to be built by March next year.
It's the first of many proposed projects for Millfields as a whole - the Millfields Master Plan consultations have had 2 meetings so far and there will be more.
I missed the 2nd but will try and keep you informed. Come to the next eTRA meeting for more info.
The play area plan - managed risk - for 8 to 13 year olds (+- 3 or more years):

As you can see, it's a ramp some feet off the ground with a gap or two, with dens and play areas underneath. The ground underneath to be left with lots of tall grass and the boggy area left with just small sections being grassed over as places to sit with the family.

Very naturalistic and almost sculptural - the modern uptake on the adventure playground - on a limited budget.



As residents we warned the architects and planners that the risk of vandalism and anti-social behaviour, with teenagers taking over, possibly drug dealing and drinking is high but we were told it will get enough use by families to negate the possibility.

I have a feeling that anywhere else (with 1 or 2 exceptions) that may be true but in Hackney it has not been the case. Just take a look at other play areas. If you have an opinion please do go to the advertised consultation meetings for Millfields and check the Hackney council website.

Mind you, I'm not suggesting it shouldn't go ahead, just that a full time park warden or some sort of supervision is needed.

....

PLEASE OBJECT OR COMMENT
on this planning application - full details and links below
(Must be in by Wed 11 Nov)

I suggest something along the lines of (or copy this):


"ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND Planning application:
ref: 2009/2291
Planning officer: Evie Learman
Planning app address: Millfields Park North - Play Pathfinder

I believe the planned adventure playground should not go ahead without provision for a daytime supervisor and/or the ability for the playground to be secured at night.
 Our worry as residents is that it will be "taken over" by the worst elements of our youth at best or used by drug dealers/users and street drinkers at worst as they can use the ramp and "dens" (& undergrowth) as cover from both rain and prying eyes. This view is supported by the police as stated at the last ward CAP meeting - as reported by David White (Sec. of the Beecholme TRA and CAP member)
Sincerely, (your name, address & phone or email)."

....

4 ways to register your objection or comment:

1. Email your objection or comment to
evie.learman@hackney.gov.uk

2. or comment/object online at this link:

Comment/Object

3. or phone Evie Learman on 0208 356 8245. Fax: 0208 356 8087

4. or drop it in/post to

Planning Officer Evie Learman
Planning Service,
263 Mare St,
London E8 3HT

NB: Make sure you leave your name, address & contact details or your comment will NOT be counted

....

link to the planning application on the Hackney Council website:

Playground Application



<<>>



Millfields Park
MASTERPLAN PRESENTATION


The meetings have finished but you can get more info by contacting Bruce Irving (see poster above)
on 020 8356 4958 email bruce.irving@hackney.gov.uk
....

click on the poster above to see it full size

<<>>

Vulpes Vulpes exhibition "Views from Afar" 17th Oct - 8th Nov

Vulpes Vulpes exhibition
"Views from Afar"

with the launch of Simon Liddiment s Kaavous-Bhoyroo Quarterly Edition


Exhibition open:
17 October 8 November, Saturdays and Sundays, 11am 6pm
Exhibition party Saturday 17 October 6pm 9pm

Views from Afar, is a testing ground for a speculative hypothesis rather than a statement of fact and presentation of proof. Is there a discernible character to the work of those artists operating outside the main metropolitan centres of contemporary art production? Can a defining approach be discovered amongst groups of artists who work out of the same location, whether they are exploring similar themes or not?

Works on show include; Coco Crampton s upholstered hybrid art and craft object based on Marcel Breuer s Lattenstuhl; Nils el Grube s chain-sawn wooden figures and sliced man on an operating table; Robin Webb s self-mocking cartoonesque paintings; RJ Hinrichsen s film of an unfeasibly slow and deliberate walk along a dark street; Robert Filby s A0 photocopies that spatially reconfigure a single source photograph of a modern flint wall and Simon Davenport s painted and engraved plaster ingots and cardboard tube (Simon Davenport is also choreographing an event for the exhibition party).
...

Alongside the exhibition, Vulpes Vulpes will also host the launch of Simon Liddiment s Kaavous-Bhoyroo Quarterly Edition. Kaavous-Bhoyroo is an arts agency that curates events and commissions artists to produce limited editions.

...

Concurrently, Robert Filby has a solo exhibition mood boards at The Two Jonny s project space in Bethnal Green that runs until 24 October, while OUTPOST will be showcasing works by Coco Crampton, Simon Davenport, Simon Liddiment and Robert Filby at Zoo 2009, 16 19 October. Coco Crampton, Simon Davenport, Simon Liddiment, Robert Filby, Robin Webb and Kaavous Clayton have all had solo shows at OUTPOST.
www.kaavous-bhoyroo.com
www.norwichoutpost.org
www.elgrube.de
www.fil.by
www.simondavenport.info


Vulpes Vulpes
Unit 4,
Prout Road,
Clapton,
London.
E5 9NP
...

www.vulpesvulpes.org


Nearest overground stations - Clapton, Hackney Central
Buses - 55, 359, 254, 253, 38, 48, 106, 56, 488, 425, 393

<<>>

Tenants Levy Special Projects fund new floor covering for the lift lobby - see POLL on left

This year we applied to the Tenants Levy Special Projects fund to finance
floor covering for the lift lobby
(and to get the backs of the big estate bins covered with artwork)

It's part of the final stage of our refurbishment of the lift lobby - the one communal area virtually everyone living in the tall block has to go through every day - now that all the wiring is boxed in and the walls have been painted.

Our grant application successful so have the money and are ready to go ahead.

A big "thank you" goes to the special projects panel!

The decision now is whether to get carpet tiles or vinyl tiles.
The grant application we made said "either carpet or vinyl".


Carpet

The lobby is rather an echo chamber so on those grounds carpet is the winner. Getting carpet tiles means they can easily be replaced when needed - and they will be!

I've spoken to the cleaning dept and spills are not uncommon.
The main con for carpet is that to maintain the new look, quite a few tiles will need to be replaced fairly regularly.

Vinyl

Can be cleaned fairly easily of spills and will stand up to cigarette burns a little better than carpet.
Mind you, spills can seep underneath vinyl so cleaning may not be straight forward in all cases. Hackney Homes is looking at covering vinyl tiles with a rubberized coating to seal the seams.
Vinyl won't help muffle sounds either.

My choice

Fortunately, we did apply for enough to be able to buy up to 3 times the number of carpet tiles just to cover the floor. One of the advantages of a grant is that you can buy from the warehouse and not through an approved supplier, saving a huge percentage.
That means that we can buy enough tiles so that even replacing all the tiles with wear (from the door to the lift) as soon as they are "worn" or have the odd spill, it should stay looking pretty good for at least 3 or 4 years - not bad value for money, at a cost of perhaps £20 a year....

Let us know what you'd like to see - take the poll top left.

You have until 5pm on the 21st to take the poll - we'll make the final decision soon after.

This link will take you to an earlier post with photos of the carpet tiles I placed in our communal stairwell. There's only 6 flats on the stairwell, not the 5 floors of flats the lift lobby services so the rate of wear is different but this photo might help:

Entrance carpet tiles

I'll keep you updated - check back here.

<<>>

We have our next enhanced TRA meeting on
Thur 19th Nov @ 7pm

New Hackney Homes ASB reporting website IS UP

UPDATE

The NEW

“Report Anti-Social Behaviour online” website

…is now working.

“Report anti social behaviour online by clicking on the link below. All information will be treated confidentially. Information will not be disclosed to a third party without your consent. You may complete the form anonymously is you wish to do so.”

The “REPORT ASB NOW” button above

will take you directly to the Hackney Homes “Report anti-social behaviour website”

<<>>

If you have an ASB case to report and want to speak to someone, contact your Neighbourhood Office.

NE Neighbourhood Office (Clock Hse) 020 8356 6500 – 9am to 5pm.

From 7pm to 5am call 020 8356 3310 - seven days week.

You can also text: 0752 7385 603

<<>>

There is a General “Anti Social Behaviour page” which includes:
• Your enquiry
• What is anti social behaviour?
• What can be done
• Drug dealing and harassment offences
• Report anti social behaviour online
• Anti social behaviour text messaging service
• Anti social behaviour out of hours helpline

is at this link:
http://www.hackneyhomes.org.uk/hcs-antisocial-behaviour.htm#asbonline

....

Until a Report number is generated automatically I recommend making a note of exactly when you made the report(s), especially if you didn’t leave your name or have sent in details on more than one report.

When making a report...

If you think there’s CCTV footage say so and give the camera positions – it should save time in getting someone to view the footage.

If it’s part of an ongoing problem or reports have previously been made about the same perpetrator, say so and give the “Case number” if you know it.

>><<
Sun 4th Oct

Next week (from Monday 5th Oct) a new Hackney wide

“ASB reporting website”

will be up for you to comment on.

It won’t go “live” until comments and suggestions have been taken from panels and residents.

The draft I’ve contributed towards offers the opportunity to remain completely anonymous or remain anonymous and still get an acknowledgement to the report and updates by leaving just an email address or mobile phone number, both of which could easily be disposable.

I hope the idea persists because I think it will encourage those residents who would like to know that something is being done but are concerned about giving their names, even with assurances of confidentiality.

The draft also had a “What to expect” link button on the first & last pages going to

new Service Standards for

(1.) time to acknowledement of the report

(2.) time to CCTV being viewed and

(3.) time to a “Case number” and officer being assigned.

...

The first page of the draft also had this graphic:

Although the web button almost certainly won’t look quite like the above

I hope it’s still there as a large link button.

Next week you can see if it’s content is the same as the above draft.

I am assured that each report will generate a unique “Report Number” so that you can easily refer to your report and chase it up if the service standards aren’t met.

This site is being built by Hackney Homes so that later on it can be fully incorporated into the new “Universal Housing” software from Civica. It doesn’t has all the features of “ASBnet” that we had hoped would be introduced and which had the backing of at least one councillor and some senior Hackney Homes staff but it should suffice as long as the associated new service standards are met.

…..

As soon as the website is up for comments

I’ll post the link here, so check back

next week, starting on Monday 5th October

<<>>

Next TRA meeting poster - Tue 22nd Sept at 7.30pm + this site has nearly 12,000 visits

Rather rushed - without even pencil mini layout roughs - but it will have to do.

>><<

Over 12,000 visits!

Thank you for your interest and support for this site.

The number of hits is just coming up to 12 thousand (UPDATE: is now over 12k) - since the 1st of May 2007 - far more than I ever expected in the 2 years 5 months it's been up.

That's an average of 300 hits a week, every week.

Actually, the first year was closer to 150 a week at most - for the last few weeks it's been getting well over 500 hits a week.

I hadn't checked for a long time so found this a bit of a surprise.

It's so encouraging I will increase my efforts updating it and adding new posts.

So please do keep visiting - it's going to get even better.

Best wishes, David White (Sec. B&C TRA).

Beecholme Estate's Fun Day photos - 2009

Beecholme's Fun Day

These photos and more are up on Flickr and available to download at a variety of sizes, from thumbnail up to the large size around 1,000 x 1,500 pixels (bigger than A3).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidandseb/sets/72157622311026325/

the pic below the same as the top most but with a magazine look effect added

Face painting by Anna - http://annachrystal.com/

from Vulpes Vulpes - http://www.vulpesvulpes.org/

Fun Day 5th Sept photos - Milfields Park

These and many more photos on my Flickr "Clapton Panel Fun Day" stream:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidandseb/sets/72157622350251576/

The 2 pics above are of WackyRymel’s EscenTrick dancers

”EscenTrick” email: wacky-lawrence@hotmail.com

...

Below is Felix Joseph’s NEWHAM STEEL BAND

email: felixsteelpan@yahoo.co.uk

The Clapton Panel Community FUN DAY - Sept 5th on Millfields Park North.

Here's the first. Most of the people are on the tree line behind the pop up.
If you click on the photo and bring it up full size you'll get a better idea.
This is 3 stitched together from my small digital camera.

Most photos I shot on 35mm film and will have them developed in the next day or two.
I'll post them here and/or Flickr and put the direct link here.

<<>>

See more of my recent photos and artwork on a single page portfolio at:

http://www.ideastap.com/portfolio.aspx?furl=7e686b4be80ad4b2

<<>>

New exhibition + Call for submissions for VULPES open exhibition - by 1st Nov

Vulpes Vulpes,
1d, Prout Road, Clapton, London. E5 9NP


SUICIDE ROMANCE


Chris Wraith
Ian Liddle
Matthew Brotherhood
Jack Duplock

18th September - 14th October

Preview: Friday 18th September 6-9

"The title Suicide Romance refers to the post punk band Suicide and the pop appropriation of romanticism. The artists in Suicide Romance all directly reference imagery from various themes including popular culture, the figure and modernist abstraction. They are brought together for this exhibition because of a collective interest in the art of making."

Vulpes Vulpes
Open Exhibition 2009 - Call for submissions


Vulpes Vulpes is holding its first annual open submission exhibition.
They are seeking artists from across the UK and worldwide working in all media to submit work.

Deadline for submissions: 1st November 2009 at 12 midnight
Submission fee: £5 for up to 3 artworks
Notification: 10th November 2009
Exhibition dates: 11th December 2009 - 10th January 2010

To apply: please send up to 3 images of the work(s) you would like to submit, a 100 word statement about the work, and a CV.
Video, performance, and sonic artists can submit work online or on DVD (a high quality copy of the work will be required if selected).

Vulpes Vulpes is a not-for-profit arts organisation and unfortunately we have limited funding available. Transportation of artworks to and from the gallery is the artist’s responsibility. Selected work must be delivered to the gallery on the 4th, 5th, or 6th December 2009 between 10am and 5pm, and the collection dates are from Monday 11th - Sunday 17 January 2010 between 10am and 5pm.

Please email your application to information@vulpesvulpes.org with the subject heading: Open Exhibition 2009 and pay the submission fee via paypal to this email address. Alternatively, for DVD submissions and if you would like to pay by cheque please send it using recorded delivery to:
Vulpes Vulpes,
1d, Prout Road, Clapton, London. E5 9NP

Images should be no bigger than 300 kb and in .jpg or .tif formats.

Final Clapton Panel FUN DAY festival poster

(click on the poster to see it full size)

The day is especially for Hackney Homes residents but is open to all.

The list of attractions is still being finalized but there'll be 3 or 4 workshops ranging from t-shirt printing to clay modelling to possibly kite making. There'll be a tom-bola and apple bobbing as well as a magician or balloon manipulator. There's a barbecue and chicken or veg wraps. There'll be a cafe area as well.

On stage there's the Nemesis street dancers and the Irish dancers.
There'll be a stell band to boot.

There'll be free bulbs and possibly herbs for the window box supplied by Hackney Homes Estate environment as well as stands with give-aways fro everyone from Pinnacle to Crispin & Borst to safer neighbourhoods and a lot more...

....check back here closer to the day for the complete list.

Hope to see you there - Millfields Park North, adjacent to the play area.

Creative play for 8-12 yrs old (free) at "Hothouse"

Leeds Castle day trip photos

Here is the link to around 100+ photos I took on
the trip to Leeds Castle on July 26th.

About 75 were taken on 35mm film, the rest on a small digital camera.
They are numbered & named either with or without "digital".
A very few have "crop" in the name which is self explanatory.
Otherwise they are as taken - just quickly through Adobe Lightroom to de-vignette
and give an over-all colour adjust.

When I have time I'll give the best a Photoshop treatment to clean up any areas within the frame that need it. The sort of thing Lightroom just can't do.

This is the link to the "Leeds Castle" set of photos:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidandseb/sets/72157621946949738/

You can download any photos you like from Flickr.
Click on the photo you want, then click on "all sizes".
The largest for nearly all of them is well over A3.

Hope you like them - here's a taste

Below is the above shot retouched in Photoshop - with a mild effect added.

There's a few more in the "Flickr" panel on the left column here
which you can also click on to get to the full set of 100 photos.

(All retouched photos do have "retouch" in the name)

Another "retouch" shot:



>><<

Clapton Panel FUN DAY Sat Sept 5th on Millfields

(click on the “Teaser” poster above to see it larger)

The full list of attractions is being finalized right now

so don’t forget to check back here in a few days.

…

This “FUNFEST” is especially for you…

…if you are a Hackney Homes resident living in or around Clapton

you will be getting a leaflet with the final version of the poster in the mail sometime over the next two or three weeks.

The day is especially for residents, with loads of entertainment, activities and great food. There’s a few local organizations you may well want to access at some stage like access2sport, community-links, safer neighbourhoods and others as well.

There will also be stands from organizations you definitely either have or will access such as Hackney Homes, Pinnacle, Connaught, Crispin & Borst, Davies & Davies – and more.

If you live on an estate without a TRA we hope the contributors showcase will give you a taste of what is available for TRAs and so inspire you to form one – with help and support from specialist resident support officers from Hackney Homes – also there on the day.

Don’t miss out – form a TRA – take the first step and find out all about it on the day:

Sat 5th Sept at Millfields Park North.

…and have fun at the same time.

"OF THE LAND" a new VULPUS exhibition 30 JULY to 30 AUGUST

V U L P U S V U L P U S

4 / 5 P r o u t R o a d C l a p t o n

http://vulpesvulpes.org/index.html

"OF THE LAND"

30 JULY – 30 AUGUST 2009

Private View – 6-9 Thursday 30th July

Email: information@vulpesvulpes.org

OF THE LAND brings together a series of contemporary images from a select group of current practising artists and recent graduates from the Royal College of Art MA and Wimbledon BA courses. The artists include Rachel Potts, Mette Juul, Robin Friend and Oliver Fuke.

Rob Eagle, a graduate of the Royal College of Art sculpture MA, has curated the show based on his outlook of the everyday world and the peculiarities of culture that affect us all, whether knowingly or otherwise. This is a body of work by artists that have achieved recognition through their descriptive narrative of the landscapes and cultural material that inform our understanding of the world we inhabit, a celluloid-inflected land of pictures.

The work has developed through the artists’ journeys and represents the emergence of each of their personal endeavours. The humorous, the banal, the inquisitive and even the exotic are identified in the work, providing encouraging and uplifting perspectives to be experienced by all who view them.

11-6 (Sat/Sun only) or by appointment

VULPES VULPES GALLERY
Unit 4, Prout Road
Clapton
London
E5 9NP

Email: information@vulpesvulpes.org

Website links:

http://www.vulpesvulpes.org/forthcoming_events.html

http://www.vulpesvulpes.org/

Day trip to LEEDS CASTLE in Kent - Sun 26 July (+update)

Free coach trip and free entrance for residents & members of the B&C TRA.
Leaving from the Beecholme estate at 9.30am

(click on the poster to see it full size)

To find out more about Leeds Castle click on this link:

http://www.leeds-castle.com

It should be a great day. If you haven't booked a seat yet there's still time.

Phone Michael on 0208 806 7539

>><<

UPDATE
Well we had a great day. I took 3 x 36 shot rolls of 35mm film and should have it back tomorrow, Monday 3rd August. As soon as I've processed a few in Photoshop I'll post them here.

>><<

Enhanced TRA meeting 28th July

(click on the poster below to see it full size - about A3)

New (1 hr) play at VULPUS "All the world's a ..."

V U L P U S V U L P U S

4 / 5 P r o u t R o a d C l a p t o n

8pm on the 16 – 19 July 2009
Tickets – £5 (cash only)

The performance will last approximately one hour.

There will be a bar at the gallery open before and after the performance.

A new piece for performance scripted, devised and improvised by the cast and crew.

Initiated by a mistranslation of Dante, this performance stages an epic journey of the brother and sister protagonists of a forgotten nineties American pre-teen movie through the supermarket part of a Chinese sex theme park on the dawn of its demolition, which culminates in a life-or-death game of Deal or No Deal.

Performed by

ED RICE, KATE O’CONNOR, PABLO NAVARRO-MACLOCHLAINN and IAIN MAITLAND

With a live and original soundtrack by:

MAX ERLE, of restlesslist

http://www.myspace.com/restlesslist
and

TOM DOUGALL, guitarist for Rose Elinor Dougall

http://www.myspace.com/roseelinordougallmusic

Designed by

PALOMA GORMLEY

Co-ordinated by

ORLANDO READE and OLLIE JORDAN
…..

http://www.vulpesvulpes.org/forthcoming_events.html

VULPUS new exhibit & CCTV new policy + WARDENS

V U L P U S V U L P U S

4 / 5 P r o u t R o a d C l a p t o n

4th - 12th July

V U L P U S V U L P U S

4 / 5 P r o u t R o a d C l a p t o n

http://vulpesvulpes.org/index.html

4th – 12th July 2009

“this,then, that and because of that, this”

an exhibition

by Ben Garrod & Scott Massey

--------------<<>>-------------

CCTV & ASB

Yesterday evening at the Residents Liaison Group meeting, Wayne Hylton announced that estate mangers will now be allowed access to recorded footage in order to investigate and collect evidence of all types of ASB including so called “low-level” ASB incidents that may not interest the police.

This change of policy is as a direct result of research I did into "data protection" the consequent clarification I received from the ICO about “data protection”.

Cllr. Linda Kelly was instrumental in making sure our arguments and info got to the right desks, then was heard & acted upon. Her help & support throughout is greatly appreciated.

Hackney Homes & Pinnacle deserve thanks for listening and then implementing these changes as well.

The new policy has yet to be published, but as soon as we have anything further, it will be posted here.

There's more on this on the NEWS page of the Clapton Panel's website:
http://claptonpanel.wordpress.com/news/





click on the image above to see it full size

TRA NEWSLETTER - Summer 2009 & Tram Depot news

click on the images below
to see them full size

Designed & written & illustrated by David White Design 0208 806 3731


The Old Tram Depot
38-40 Upper Clapton Road

Last year’s application was refused largely on the grounds of high density and tiny box like accommodation.
Much of the new design is even higher density.

Leabridge is the 41st most deprived ward in London, so increasing population density places more pressure on facilities, services and green spaces – and at a time when huge cuts are being made.

----

LOCAL STATS & FACTS

In fact, much of Hackney falls into the Multiple Index as being among the 20% most deprived in the country, with Leabridge itself being, as I say, ranked as the 41st most deprived in London.

That is, just about the most deprived of the most deprived - nationally!

LESS GREEN SPACE:

Leabridge has approx 23% green space – London as a whole has over 38%.

MORE DOMESTIC BUILDINGS:

Leabridge has over 16% domestic buildings, London has just over 8%.

----

But we do have a

YOUNGER than nationally average population
and a
BETTER EDUCATED population

with at least 31% of people having at least a first degree (level4/5)
compared with less than 20% nationally.

<<>>

Beecholme 's Visual Environment Project

To take in all the grounds, with 2 sides to the project: 1. to create a consistent landscape and horticultural design based around 2. three or more sculptural elements commissioned specifically for Beecholme.

Two of the sculptural elements to be more architectural in nature with seating.
One at least to be a pure sculpture.

<<>>
(see "Our Visual Environment & Quality of Life" presentation further below for our initial terms of reference)
http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2009/04/updated-design-protocols-with-gold.html
<<>>

The planting and overall horticultural design will probably be done by "The Grass Roof Company" who have done some of the better squares and parks.

We have been lucky to commission Tim Norris
the sculptor who created this hillside sculptural stair & seating:

Tim will produce drawings of installations specifically taillored for Beecholme's grounds.

Side 1 - grounds & side 2 - sculptures will be co-ordinated by the TRA under the overall facilitating work of the specialist community art organisation "Arts Express".

Tim Norris and Damien of Arts Express have already had a preliminary look at the estate and are both enthusiastic and confident that we can make a huge improvement to our visual environment and our quality of life.

We have some £8,000 in 2 grants currently and we are applying for a further £22,000.

The architectural seating and planting designs will be based on the two squares although no area or view on the estate will be missed.
The pure sculpture will probably go at the park end of Prout Road and be visible from all directions including from Millfields Park.

See the photos below (click on it to see it full size):

A note about the Beecholme Estate

Beecholme Estate's architect was Sir Frederick Gibberd 1908-1984
(working with Borough engineer G L Downing), one of Britain’s most respected architects.

His work has been an influence on generations of post-war designers.
Gibberd was particularly interested in design as enclosure of space rather than arrangement
of mass, as evident at Beecholme -- combining architecture, town planning and landscape.

Gibberd described mixed development as
"planning the complete area as a whole series of pictures with variety in each, and unity within the whole."

We wish to remain true his vision for Beecholme and return it to a unified whole.
One that enhances peoples lives every day.

-----------<<>>----------

(see the "HCVS GrassRoots grants" post below for more details)

-----------<<>>----------

Bin artwork in last stage (please be patient)

click on the above to see it full size.

The remaining 5 bins should be covered within the next week or two at most.

Timeless British values to live by

Timeless values Briton's hold that should never go out of fashion:

• Tolerance - this does not mean accept intolerant action by others but does mean tolerating intolerant beliefs and beliefs contrary to your own others hold as true.
• Consideration - for your fellow man "Do as you would be done by".
• Fairness - equity and impartiality before the law and in everyday dealings with others.
• Moderation - in all things.
• Honesty - and integrity.
• Cleanliness - both personal and environmental (no spitting or littering)
• Civic Responsibility - volunteering a minimum of time to help your community.
• Charity - towards others in thought and action "there, by the grace of God go I" is one to keep in mind.
  

Is there anything I've missed?
Leave a comment or email me - david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

This shouldn't need saying but I'm afraid it does - all to often.

"ANTIGONE" at Vulpus Vulpus

t o J u n e 1 4

4 / 5 P r o u t R o a d .

c h e c k i t o u t !

HCVS "Grassroots Grant" for Beecholme APPROVED

I have the very great pleasure of announcing that
our £5,000 grant application to the
HCVS East End and City "Grassroots Grants"
has been approved.

The project is to make the whole estate's grounds look as good as the best
squares and public gardens in Hackney.

We plan to do a lot more than simply planting.
Along with a sculptural element in the form of seating via a separate grant, the
overall effect should be that of a coordinated landscape design.


We have already spoken to The Grass Roof Company and will follow up with landscape, bedding and planting schemes & designs that will encourage the wildlife we want (discourage those we don't) and be sustained throughout the year.

http://www.grassroofcompany.co.uk/

We intend to add enough funds from our EIB, year by year to ensure constant maintenance of the new grounds.

This means weeding, pruning and seasonal re-planting.
In fact, everything needs to keep the grounds looking great year round.

As we have leaseholders with front gardens we currently have a garden of concrete slabs next to one full of flower pots next to one of hedges. We will add elements to each in order to tie everything together and, with the leaseholders permission, change whatever would otherwise stand out as uncoordinated. Fortunately this last job just means a bit of manual labour which we will do ourselves and not use grant funds for.

I'll post more here very soon, I just wanted to get the news to you that the grant has been approved.

Brilliant - thank you HCVS

from Sec. B&C TRA

Poster/artwork offer and my slide show PORTFOLIO

NEW
Includes all design:
Roughs, visuals & finished artwork for print.

<<>>

2,500 full colour letterheads £269 inclusive
(inc. VAT & p&p)

Printed best quality by offset press on 100gm bond
(other paper stock & run size prices on request)

<<>>

email: info@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

Phone/Fax: 020 8806 3731

<<>>

Here's our latest example
with a standard written letter indicated with "lorum ipsum" text:

You can see the full design process from roughs to finished art at:
https://sites.google.com/a/davidwhitedesign.co.uk/current/

<<>>

INTRODUCTORY SPECIAL OFFER
Poster and advertising design & artwork

link to see the above full size: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3543/3516631377_4151f4275c_o.png

link to see the above full size: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3402/3516632423_28cfd90d11_o.png

"Special offer"
Print or web ready artwork for the introductory price of £20
For anything from a poster (CMYK @ 300dpi) to a webpage (RGB @ 72dpi)

To make this fair the offer is open to everyone, including existing clients

email: offer@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

<<>>



Gallery 1. GRAPHICS & ADVERTISING

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carpet tiles In Beecholme entranceway

They make a big difference, don't they!

I got these carpet tiles from Hackney FreeCycle and still have enough
to do the upper landings and the stairs - and keep
a few aside to replace any that get damaged.

There's only 6 flats in the stairwell and we all know each other so
I do not expect any purposeful damage.

(click on the picture to see it full size)

I haven't quite finished yet but when I do I'll give them a good cleaning.
They'll come up like new and look and feel great.
They're so much better than bare concrete - it makes you feel like
you're home as soon as you open the main entrance.

The only expense was a £1 can of spray glue (from a £1 shop) and
some blades for a stanley knife to cut the tiles.

I hope this will tip the scales in favour of carpet tiles for the lift lobby
in the single 5 storey block on the estate.
It's the single lift lobby that everyone has to go through as well
as their guests, of course.

The obvious beauty of tiles is their ability to be easily replaced if damaged
as well their ability to form patterns and designs.

The lift lobby would look great as a simple checkerboard.

Just for fun (3) - Euro election 2009 quick guide - Beecholme photos

(I took these on my mobile phone a couple of days ago.
They're a bit of a cheat really because i took them very close to & from behind plants
so they make the estate look a lot greener than it actually is)

As with all the photos, artwork and documents on the site, if you
click on them or better yet, right click and select
"open in new tab or window" they will come up full size.
In this case that means A4 for the "views" and the "panorama"
about 5 inches high by 2 foot wide.

Flats 10-21 and 22-33 Beecholme are top left, overlooking Millfields park.

...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................

SEE the UPDATE below about the
EIB sculptural seating
Fri May 15th post: "UPDATE MAY 28"
.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................

"Just for fun" star trek animations:

To see No3
http://content.oddcast.com/host/trek_yourself/swf/mySpace.swf?doorId=365&clientId=184&mId=30216899.1

To see No.2
The Star Fleet captain:
http://content.oddcast.com/host/trek_yourself/swf/mySpace.swf?doorId=365&clientId=184&mId=30216733.1

...and your mission is to go to:
http://www.claptonpanel.wordpress.com

To see No.1
The Romulan:
http://content.oddcast.com/host/trek_yourself/swf/mySpace.swf?doorId=365&clientId=184&mId=30211846.1

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................

Having trouble figuring out who on earth
some the candidates (and parties) are and what they stand for?

I hadn’t even heard of some of the parties so spent half an hour searching for the information I needed to be able to vote sensibly. I found all the info on London’s Euro election candidates on a concise and easy to follow page and figured I could save you the time & trouble
of having to search as well…

A summary of all London candidates and quick guide to their policies:

http://www.currybet.net/cbet_blog/2009/05/london_european_election_candidates.php

Three Parties with London candidates I wanted to find out more about:

http://www.juryteam.org/blog/?p=595

http://www.greenparty.org.uk/

http://www.yes2europe.co.uk/


...or if you're really serious - the British Library:


http://www.bl.uk/reshelp/findhelprestype/offpubs/eudoc/euelections/euelections.html

2004 results for London Euros:

http://ukpollingreport.co.uk/guide/london-european-elections


To register to vote online (for all elections held in the UK)
or to find out if you already are registered:

http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/Default.aspx

TRA AGM 2009 results - plus NEWS

Our Beecholme & Casimir Tenants & Residents
Annual General Meeting

Was held as scheduled with Coralie Francis
our Resident Participation Officer attending to officiate.

All TRA officers were re-elected, however the
number of committee members has now dwindled to four.

....................................................................


The next TRA meeting is
Tuesday the 28th of July
at 7pm
in the hall

....................................................................


Other news

The new EIB process for 2009
This year we are to put forward 3 projects in preferential order.
If there is the time and money to do all three, all three will be done.
With luck this should avoid the huge underspend
of the last two years.

Our 3 projects will probably be:
1. Depending on whether we get the £5,000 grant from Grass Roots
(HSCV) for grounds/planting, add £3,000 for 3 years continuous maintenance
(weeding, pruning, seasonal replanting etc)
2. A sculptural seat not too dissimilar to the one illustrated below.
3. Floor covering for the lift lobby - perhaps lino or carpet tiles so any wear or burns
or spillages can be easily gotten rid of by replacing a tile.

If you have an idea for the EIB, let me know, it's not too late!
David White (sec. B&C TRA) email me at:
david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

We will register the 3 projects at the next ETRA on
Tue 28th July at 7pm

....................................................................

This year's TRA outing
is to Leeds Castle, just outside London
on Sunday 26th of July.

You'll get a pamphlet through your door closer to the date.

that's all for now.

Have a good long weekend!

....................................................................

Beecholme and Casimir TRA AGM 20th May 09

Wednesday 2oth at 7.30pm in the hall

I hope to see you there!

Click on the poster to bring it up full size which is A3
(but 200dpi for print so may come up about A2)

Sculpture eg's for estate EIB project + HCVS grant + Dog litter fines

.....

UPDATE (May 28)
Arts-express manager and sculptor Tim Norris
http://www.timnorris.co.uk/
(Tim did the curved seating in the photo directly below)
will be coming to the estate as the first stage
of our sculpture/sculptural seating project.

From Tim's website:

Tim specialises in large-scale Sculptural Furniture, his work draws its inspiration
from the surrounding landscape and where possible uses
indigenous natural materials, in combination with recycled or engineered parts.

Tim has a range of experience in both exhibiting and constructing commissioned work in the landscape.

A proven track record of Commissions and Residencies, Including, Artist in Residence at The Irwell Sculpture Trail, The Grizedale Forest, and The National Cycle Network.

Rather than produce solely Furniture or Sculpture he creates inspirational environments
for the public to relax, chat and enjoy.

More updates to come.

.....

Here are 11 sculptures
as examples suitable for an EIB or other
grant funded project on your estate.

Of course, you will almost certainly commission a work that will have a relevance to and sit well with
the style of architecture on your estate.
Many of the examples I've chosen would sit particularly well in a post war, post modern estate.

The full stream of 42 sculptures can be seen at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidandseb/sets/72157618200513186/

...which includes sculptures currently on housing estates in London and elsewhere in the UK

"I hope you will pursue a sculpture project because
it will, I promise, make a huge difference
to your visual environment and affect
your quality of life."

Some residents at Beecholme and some Hackney Homes officers were initially resistant to proposals to paint the galvanized Gerda gates as well as to proposals to
cover the big estate bins with artwork. Fortunately cllr Linda Kelly had the vision to appreciate the possibilities and supported the project.

(Bin artwork see below or click: http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2009/03/next-etra-meeting-first-bin-with.html
and
http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2009/01/more-bin-artwork-visuals.html
and
http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2009/01/new-bin-artwork-approved.html)

"The projects went through mainly because no-one else had a project for
the 2008 EIB... ...and I was persistent."

The estate signs were due to be replaced after the Decent Homes internals had been done as they were still Hackney council signs instead of Hackney Homes ones. I was luckily in the right place at the right time and managed to jump in and supply the artwork using predominantly Hackney Homes corporate colours but with my own 50's style Beecholme logo.

(Gates & signage see below or click: http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2008/04/new-signage-up-galvanized-gates-painted.html
and
http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2008/05/new-big-estate-sign-for-casimir-rd.html
and
http://beecholme.blogspot.com/2008/07/new-estate-signs-are-up.html)

Since these projects have been now completed, they are
widely appreciated and commented on.

"I know some officers (and expect some residents) will again
be resistant
to the idea of estate sculpture . . .

. . . I hope I can convince them that a sculpture will be as effective as
the bin artwork, the signage and the gates, perhaps even more so."

As long as the sculptures are made of stainless steel or stone resin (or similar) and are
fixed to the ground by a (an unseen underground) concrete footing they
will be vandal proof and easily cleaned.

Placement is critical to get the full impact.
To ensure that your eyes are drawn towards it, its background needs to be
either a contrasting or visually flat surface. You can use this to make passers look in a certain direction, perhaps away from a less attractive view.
For example, you wouldn't want to place a sculpture within view of bins or someones window.

As all these projects make an impact on the estate and our visual environment
and the overall effect is starting to mount up.
Residents are rightfully becoming more respectful of and care
more for both the estate and themselves.

It's hardly surprising as the estate is now more worth taking care of.
It shows a respect for residents and their environment that is returned in kind.

..................................................................

Need help accessing funds?

If anyone without an estate TRA wants help accessing EIB funds or applying
for grants elsewhere, please contact me in my position as sec. of the Clapton Panel at

claptonpanel@googlemail.com
...................................................

"If and when a Beecholme sculpture project is completed, I'm confident
it will be hailed as a big success.
As a designer and visual media professional who has lived on three continents I have seen
these sorts of measures work all over the world, time and time again."


It's a matter of creating well designed and aesthetically pleasing focal points while at the same time getting rid of any eyesores. The overall impression is then one of coordinated good design that naturally calms and uplifts the viewer.

-----------------------------

£5,000 Grass Roots Grant from HCVS

We are currently waiting for to find out if we've got the East End & City Grass Roots grant of £5,000 we (the TRA) applied for some 6 weeks ago to employ the Grass Roof Co to replant and do minor landscaping to all the estates grounds and gardens. You can use the grant for any communal environmental improvement.
We should know within the next fortnight or so.

http://www.grassroofcompany.co.uk/

News about the Grass Roots grants program:

http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/news/news_stories/090305_grassroots.aspx

and the HCVS site,the place to apply for a Grass Roots Grant

http://www.hcvs.org.uk/en/pages/funding-grants/grassroots.aspx


-----------------------------


Fines for dog dirt litter

Last year I suggested that heavy fines should be handed out for dog dirt & littering and noted that Perth in West Australia had the same problem until a few years ago when $2,000 fines were introduced
and bins placed everywhere.
I was told in no uncertain terms "we're not Australian" and "it would never work here".

I am gratified to see that Hackney council is now initiation a £1000 fine for dog dirt littering and that
the by-laws are in place and the signs will be going up in Hackney very soon.

It is nice to be proved right sometimes.

-------------------------------

Clapton Neighbourhood Panel site up

The Clapton Panel's new site now has 8 pages and is growing fast - both in size and popularity.
There are all the links you need and over 60 contacts with full details and clickable website links.
Why not take a look right now!

http://www.claptonpanel.wordpress.com

Updated DESIGN PROTOCOLS with "Gold Standard"

Here is an updated version of a "Design & Architectural Protocols" slideshow I put together some time ago. The important bits are the "Gold Standard" page and the protocols themselves - too often, things are either replaced with the same or, for new builds, the first design that comes to mind. I'm thinking of everything here, from walls and fences to furniture.

Note: when you start the video it becomes much clearer.
If it doesn't play immediately just reload the page from the navigation toolbar

Cheaper is more expensive

When you are responsible for the repair and maintenance of a huge stock of buildings, many of which are in very bad repair and have limited funds, the impulse and the norm in Hackney is to spread it out as much as possible. - only have the necessary work done, to the minimum standard.

It's a false economy of course, but one that is bought into time and time again.
And it's a false economy that we all pay for with a reduced quality of life.

It seems best to get the cheaper option to get more things done, and it may be, in the short term, but it wont last long because whatever it is, it will be unserviceable in no time at all and have to be replaced.
So you've alienated everyone by giving them the cheapest and in the end it'll cost twice the "cheapest" price - perhaps even twice the "quality" price because the quality item may last five times as long.
On top of that you've gained the enmity of the user and reduced their feeling of self-worth.

Then there's the added cost in time for running around replacing things, the extra paperwork plus the inconvenience to the recipients of waiting for a replacement.

I would argue that the apparently more expensive option is in fact almost always the cheaper, more prudent option in the long run, not just materially but sociologically and psychologically as well.

Good thoughtful design pays for itself many times over in a multitude of ways.
DW

NEW Wardens surgery this Wed - before eTRA meeting

This Wednesday 29th, immediately before our 7pm

enhanced Tenants & Residents Association meeting
(with councillor Kelly & Hackney Homes officers)

...is the first
"Wardens Wednesday Surgery" at Beecholme
from 5pm to 6.30pm
(next Wed & all future are to 7pm)
(Here is a newer poster I did today, Tue rather than the version I rushed off over the weekend
and which came through your letterbox - if you live on the estate)

and here's the reverse

(click on the poster to bring it up about A3)
...............
After this first Wed surgery
all subsequent Wed surgeries will run from 5pm to 7pm.

(I hope to have improved on the poster for the those)

Why not drop in to the surgery and meet the wardens
then stick around for the TRA meeting.
You wont be sorry if you do...
...and you'll be made very welcome.

David White, TRA secretary.

NEW ART GALLERY in Prout Road - shows & workshops

PURGE PROJECTS
are opening a new show on Friday 15th of May
and they are planning a kids workshop on Sunday 17th of May (2-4pm)

www.purgeprojects.co.uk info@purgeprojects.co.uk

----
What used to be the old furniture factory in the Prout Road workshops (but has been empty recently)
is now occupied by artists workshops and a new gallery:
----

VULPUS VULPUS
4-5 Prout Road
----
Please support them as they are the ideal people to have there, not just
because they will hold kids workshops and shows, but because it
helps in our fight to keep the Old Tram Depot from being re-developed.
Our argument to the council and planners was based largely on the basis that
the depot is occupied in large part by working sculptors, artists,
designers and art galleries (there is a student art gallery and an
art project gallery in the main building)

PURGE PROJECTS
4-5 Prout Road, London E5

www.purgeprojects.co.uk info@purgeprojects.co.uk
----
There's a new show open on Friday 15th of May
and they are planning a kids workshop on Sunday 17th of May (2-4pm)
----

Bike shelter up & Clapton Panel NEWS + UPDATE

(see the article below this one to find out how to object to the Pond House demolition application!)
.............................

UPDATE Thur 23rd April:
The bike shelter is ready to occupy!
I had a chain welded to the padlock and secured it to the shelter and
bitumen has gone down over the footings.
I have already contacted those people who reserved a space and who
had given me a phone no.
I will be knocking on your door if you reserved a place but haven't heard from me yet.
Try and have £30 on hand for the key deposit (refundable).
......................................

If you have any queries or would like to put your name down on the waiting list
just email: bike@beecholme.co.uk
-----------------------------------------------------
NEWS NEWS NEWS
By the way, as a member (and sec) of our TRA I was elected to
the Clapton Panel, the neighbourhood panel for Clapton along with our TRA chair.
I have now been elected to the position of secretary to the Panel and elected onto
the Residents Liaison Group which meets with councillors and the
heads of Hackney Homes and Pinnacle.
I'm also on the Neighbourhood Investment Board.
As sec of the panel I have created
a new website with
a lot of info you may find both interesting and useful.

Check it out at
http://claptonpanel.wordpress.com/

Oppose the Clapton Pond "Pond House" development. A grade II building replaced by 4 storey rabbit hutch!?!?

Object to planning application no.2008/3077
(demolition of Pond House for re-development)
and
let your views known by writing to the planning officer
Steve.Fraser-Lim@hackney.gov.uk
Phone: 020 8356 8056
by 27th April.
and/or
you can object/make a comment about the planning app with their on-line form:
http://www.hackney.gov.uk/ufs/ufsmain?formid=ENV_PLANNING_SEARCH_APPLICATIONS_COMMENT
but make sure you
say "I wish to object..." leave your full contact details & specify app no.2008/3077
or it will not be counted as an objection, only a comment.
.........................................................................................

Take a look at the full illustrated plans at
http://www.claptonpond.org.uk/Pondlife/Appearance_of_development.html
to see exactly what they are proposing.

..........................................................................................

(click on the screen grabs below to see them full size or
click on the link above each one to go to the site directly)

below: NEW LINK

http://www.claptonpond.org.uk/Pondlife/Pond_House_application.html

below: http://davehill.typepad.com/claptonian/2009/04/the-pond-house-group-writesa-developer-is-proposing-to-convert-an-important-historic-heritage-building-in-the-clapton-neighb.html

below: http://www.claptonpond.org.uk/Pondlife/Pond_House_newscuttings.html

below: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/pond-house/

more coming over the next few days
check back for news and a form letter to send to the planners

David White (sec. B&C TRA)

Bird sings at the Beecholme Estate - NEW REPLACEMENT VIDEO

Bird sings - again.
2nd video new today Tue 21st April 2009
Replaces the video previously posted here.
This is a new video of the same bird singing. At least I'm pretty sure it's the same bird.
I had to tape it as it was so loud and seems to vary day to day.
It's hard to believe it's 2 minutes from central Hackney and 200 yards from the Lea Bridge roundabout.
Hope you enjoy this one even more than the last - there's less background traffic noise.

Next TRA meeting (with officers) 29th April

click on the poster above to see it about A4

Bike shelter news & bin artwork update - April '09 - PLUS UPDATES

Update Wed 8th April
I've just been told that the bike shelter is being delivered to site to be erected next Thursday 30th April and should be up that day. I will try and buy the DOD rated padlock before then.

(Below: finished "footings" for the bike shelter)

To those who have a space reserved: have at least £30 deposit (returnable) for the key ready.
The lock with 10 keys will be somewhere over £300 and perhaps up to £400.
If you lose a key you will lose your deposit and have to pay another £30+ to get another one, so be warned - don't lose your key.
......................................................................

Update Tue 31st March
As noted yesterday (below), the prep work for the bike shelter is going in now.

Mon 30th March: Secure Bike Shelter preparations.
Tomorrow morning at about 8.30am I will have the pleasure of showing the crew who are digging the holes for the shelters corner concrete pockets where to place them.
That is, within the bitumen area in front of the community hall.

We're still waiting for a delivery date from the manufacturers but the order has gone out so it's just a matter of time. For those who reserved a place, be prepared to pay between £25 and £35 as a deposit for the key - which will be refunded when you hand the key back in - which will pay for the £250 to £350 high security padlock and extra keys. This is a DOD approved padlock so bolt cutters would just be blunted in the attempt.

Bin artwork Update.
The printer and I are having problems colour matching the brick wall photo section of the artwork to the real wall colour. The problem is that although the large format printer is postscript - and we've both installed new proprietary colour profiles - the printer was never properly set up.
As we are dealing with 4 colour half tones and not spot colour I can't just use a pantone colour bridge colour and save as an eps. We are getting there though. So far we've done about 14 proofs and the printer a further 12 or more variations on those proofs.
We're waiting for the printer tech help to align and service the printer but in the meantime I'm going to use "replace selective colour" in Photoshop and pick the predominant 2 or 3 pixel colours and replace them with a pantone colour match colour I have already calibrated as the same as the wall and prints true on my printer with no colour management - so no profiles to alter the actual colour numbers.

Hopefully the last few bins under the tall block will be done within a wekk or so.

Best wishes,
David.
david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

Next eTRA meeting & the first bin with artwork is delivered

Above: delivered today, Thur 12th of March. We've had some problem with colour management and col profiles at the printer so it turned out with more green than it should have had.
That's the risk you take without proofing everything.
As it happens this is the only bin on the estate that will have this artwork.

Below is a close up of the central front section of the bin showing "Property of Hackney Homes"
As it is the first bin art actually delivered and seen full size I've decided to move the text to the center top for the rest. That goes for this design with leaves and the other two designs (see posts below).

Click on the pictures above to see them full size

------------------------

The next TRA meeting is an "enhanced" one with housing officers attending.
It will be on Wed 29th of April at 7pm.

The next meeting after that is our AGM, on Wed 20th of May.

David White.

Next TRA meeting Wed 4th March

Here's my poster for the next
Beecholme & Casimir Tenants & Residents Assoc. meeting.

If you click on the poster above it will come up full size A3.

Look forward to seeing you at the meeting!
(David White TRA sec.)

NEW Garden waste collection points

Here is all the information you need to get rid of any garden waste.
Click on any of the items below to bring them up full size or to save to your desktop.

-------------------------------------------------

---------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------


To order a supply of compostable brown sacks please call
the recycling hotline on 020 8356 6688.

If you would prefer to home compost your garden waste, Hackney Council offers a range of heavily subsidised compost bins which are delivered direct to your door. Alternatively, if you do not produce garden waste on a regular basis, up to five bags can be collected four times a year free of charge from your property via the bulky waste service. This waste will be put aside on the load and recycled. Bulky waste collections can be arranged via the recycling hotline.

If you have any questions please phone the recycling hotline on 020 8356 6688 or visit www.hackney.gov.uk/recycling.

Kind regards,

Recycling Team

More bin artwork visuals

Beecholme's bins

I've just spent some 5 hours selecting "creative commons" shots and free shots
and putting a few into Photoshop visuals (below).
I have a few more to do so look out for them in the next day or two.

The spiky plant in the post below has been approved for use under
the tall block, but it has been left to my better judgement
for the choice of artwork for the remaining 7 bins.

If you have any particular favourites, please let me know.
binart@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

Don't forget to check out my new website
http://www.davidwhitedesign.co.uk

Including a £20 poster artwork offer
plus
a selection of art posters and signed, limited edition prints
starting at £35 on up to £130 for an A1 poster/print.

There's also very cheap printing for non-profit groups.

-------------------------------

New bin artwork approved

This one above will be the first to be done. That is, both sides under the tall block.
It is just a visual (photoshop) but the final should be very close.
It was approved by a majority at tonight's TRA meeting.

The two directly above may be used for other bins around the estate.
I'll make a decision once the topmost is done.
The choice was left to me as the graphic artist producing the work.

Next eTRA meeting Wed 21st Jan 2009 - PLUS Bike Shelter news - Bin A/W news

(click on poster to see it full size)

NEXT eTRA MEETING
Wed 21st Jan 2009 at 7pm

The next meeting of the tenants & residents association is an "enhanced" one.
That is to say, it is one of the quarterly ones that council, Hackney Homes and Pinnacle officers attend. At the Alf Partridge Community Hall on the corner of Prout & Casimir Rds.

............................................................


GREAT NEWS! BIKE SHELTER GOES AHEAD!

UPDATE 20 Jan 09
The info below is basically correct except it may take
a little longer than expected to go ahead
as the "approved contractor" I got quotes from is no longer
on the list so more quotes have to be asked for from one that is.

We have finally got the OK from Hackney Homes for the EIB partial funding needed for the bike shelter. The rest of the funds we already have from the Tenants Levy Special Projects Grant.

That means the bike shelter should go in within the next few weeks.
It is already over subscribed but you are welcome to add your name to the list.
Contact me, David White at david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk
or phone me on 020 8806 3731.
..................................................................


BIN stick-on artwork news

Below are a couple of my latest visuals for the bin artwork.
I have used photos I took at our last estate day out to Kew Gardens.
I will be going over the design of each bin around the estate at the next meeting so if you have an idea or something to say that is the ideal time.

.... thank you and have a good new year.

Christmas greetings

Merry Christmas everyone

from David White

Bin artwork to go ahead

Above: another possible idea for the bin artwork - just a visual.
(see also "July 25th" post further down for more visuals)


I can announce that our application for funds from the
Tenants Levy Special Projects Fund
has been successful.

We have the money for both the bin artwork and the
match funding (with the EIB half) for the Bike Shelter.

We have heard nothing about the EIB as yet though
so the bike shelter status is still not confirmed as a go-ahead.

I will be showing more designs for the bins here
so keep a look out and let me know your preferred designs.
As soon as they are approved I'll send the artwork off to the printers
who will apply the finished heat-stick-on artwork to the big estate bins.

Reprieve for Clapton Tram Depot confirmed

(click the above application notice to see it full size)

UPDATE: Above - confirmation that planning app. 2008/1511 has been refused.

......................................

REPRIEVE FOR TRAM DEPOT

I have it from good authority today (Tue 25th Nov) that the planning application no 2008/1511
has been rejected or withdrawn - either way the depot has been temporarily saved.

I will keep you updated about further developments
when they happen.

On behalf of both the depot residents and residents of the surrounding area I'd like to thank everyone who objected to the planning app and look forward to your continuing support
should we need it.

Tram Depot banner

Please note the deadline to object to the planning dept
has been extended to the 22nd Oct.
See how to object (2 posts) below.

click on the banner below to see it full size

See just below the TRA post (directly below) for all TRAM DEPOT info
and what you can do to help save it.

I will try to keep the Tram Depot info up to date, so keep a look out for the date of the public meeting with the planners. In the meantime, if anyone wants a variation of the above for a website or something similar, just let me know at:
david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk

Beecholme and Casimir TRA meeting Oct 22nd 2008

click on the poster to see it full size

All residents of the estate and Hackney Homes residents in the adjoining streets
are most welcome to attend.

any queries to:

david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk (I'm TRA secretary)
or
chair@beecholme.co.uk

UPDATE: The Tram Depot re-development in Clapton E5.

The critical point is to make sure you please
email: adam.flynn@hackney.gov.uk

(before Thur 16th October 2008)
UPDATE UPDATE: deadline extended to 22nd Oct. END UPDATE

with your objections to planning app no. 2008/1511
...which are listed in the post below and shown with lots of photos and info at

http://www.memoriatechnica.net

Tram shed demolition meeting Tue 7th Oct '08. UPDATED - MOVIE of meeting

.............................................................................................................

UPDATE - VIDEO minutes of meeting
at the bottom of this post
The video is part of the meeting held on Tue 7th Oct at the college.

..............................................................................................................

4 ways to object to the proposed development:

1. Sign the online petition at:

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/save-the-tram-depot-site-38-40-upper-clapton-rd.html

which is forwarded to council planners.
The site offers other info and updates
or

2. Emailing Adam.Flynn@hackney.gov.uk directly is the simplest and most secure way to register your objections to this re-development.
You can use/select/copy objections from the document below and email them

but you must include the Application number and your name and contact details with the email
or

3. You can view the actual plans, download them, and comment at:

http://idox.hackney.gov.uk/WAM/showCaseFile.do?action=show&appType=Planning&appNumber=2008/1511

--------

You can download the posters below to print out up to A2
or email me at david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk for higher res A/W in .jpg or .psd
suitable for up to A0 printing



View from the corner of Prout and Casimir Roads, E5:

View from Upper Clapton Road, E5:

(click on the above posters to see them full size)



4. Have your say about the proposed re-development of the whole factory/community hall/tram shed workshop site direct to
the planning officers in person.

Have questions and concerns ready to put to council planning officials
at the special consultation meeting on

Tue 7th October 2008
at
7pm to 8.30pm
B6 college in the theatre.

BSix

Brooke House

Sixth Form College

Kenninghall Road

London E5 8BP

..............................................................

Objections for your (1.) online petition (2.) email or
(3.) planning website
and/or
(4.) to raise at the meeting:

To: Adam Flynn, Planning service 263 Mare St. E8 3HT
(Adam.Flynn@hackney.gov.uk)
Objection to Planning Application 2008/1511.

(http://idox.hackney.gov.uk/WAM/showCaseFile.do?action=show&appType=Planning&appNumber=2008/1511) this address is correct by may take a few tries before it loads.

I/we would like to object to planning application 2008/1511 on the following grounds:
1) that the proposal is in breach of the unitary development plan with respect to change of use from commercial/industrial to residential and will cause disruption to existing businesses and the loss of employment to people living in the immediate area.
(2) the proposed business development is unviable in a period of economic downturn and a local over supply of similar space, resulting in a net loss of employment for the area.
(3) there is a danger of economically viable business units being converted to B8 usage for warehousing, office space and storage which will not generate sufficient job vacancies. (4) the application significantly underestimated the present level of employment (54 instead of 104 employees).
(5) the proposal has failed to take into account the need for space of existing businesses
(mechanics, joiners, mould makers.), and based its assumptions on space needed for office workers.
(6) the proposal represents the highest level of mixed-use density being developed in Hackney, setting a dangerous precedent for future development in the rest of the borough;
(7) the height and density of the buildings, although reduced from earlier proposals still represents an unacceptable increase in relation to the existing buildings to the rear of the site (Casmir Rd and Beecholme Estate) in terms of being overlooked and overshadowed, creating a detriment to the current environment.
(8) the proposal will create a gated development which is against the unitary development plan, especially since this site borders a housing estate, a matter of equality?
(9) due to present economic conditions (credit crisis and reduced availability of mortgages) the possibility of local people being able to afford the housing part of the development is unlikely.
(10) the existing Community Centres total site area is 312sqm and the proposed replacement is only 142sqm and does not contain disabled facilities, which is unlawful. This land belongs to Hackney Council and is managed by the Beecholme and Casimir Rd Tenants and Residents Association and would not be available for the use of the new residents without consulting with the T.R.A.
(11) reports cited on the impact to existing traffic conditions are based on dissimilar areas and fail to take account of local conditions (commuter parking for Clapton Station, local congestion on Upper Clapton Rd.). The increase of traffic on our local narrow residential Prout, Casimir, Cleveleys and Gunton Roads. Will bring noise, danger and even more congestion to already congested roads;
(12) the proposed entrance to the underground parking in Casimir Rd is insensitively sited with respect to the surrounding properties and will lead to further traffic problems due to being sited at a corner with reduced visibility.
(13) the proposal will create unacceptable long-term pressure on local education, health services, transport and roads;
(14) no environmental study has been carried out on the possibility of ground pollution and possible decontamination on a site that has been used by various industries in the last century.
(15) the Tram Depot is part of Hackney’s working heritage and houses many different businesses and Crafts/Art Workshops. The Building itself is a Horse Drawn Tram Depot from 1873 and a Clapton Horse drawn Tram and its nameplate from this Tram Station features at the Transport Museum!

Don't forget to add your name and contact details.

......................................


See you at the meeting!


you might also like to check out this site with information and photos:
http://www.benlocker.com/2008/10/save-clapton-tram-depot/



NOTE

The current plans with 5 blocks are little better than application 2007/0090 which was rejected!
Take a look at them much further below in this blog - see June 2007, title starts with "Neighbourhood Regeneration... "

Here is a further list of reasons why you should object:

I object to the change of use of 38-40 Upper Clapton Road from light industrial use to residential use.

The main point is that all the units are fully occupied. - Change of use should not be granted

The developer's employment report underestimates the number of workers by about 30. There are 80-100 workers. It is a changing number because the manufacturing businesses employ extra freelancers and fitters when they are busy. For example at Horse Workshops we vary from a core of four to up to nine when we are working at full tilt, with an average of six.

This type of space allows us to work flexibly and therefore competitively. The proposed workspace is totally unsuitable for manufacturing. It is not an exchange of like for like.

Expelling of creative industries and entrepreneurs from the neighborhood because of the absence of suitable replacement space. These are ambassadors for the very tarnished image of Clapton. These are the kind of businesses Clapton should be proud of as we approach 2012 and the Olympics.

Horse Workshops four sculpture/metalwork businesses recently represented at Chelsea Flower Show (public art commissions for Circle Anglia in Old Ford, Southern Housing Foundation on the Isle of Dogs) Phil Brown – Other People’s Sculpture (work for various clients including Zaha Hadid), Xavier Thierpont sound engineer and recording studio, the award winning Tram Depot Gallery, the only art gallery in Clapton.

Loss of local services

Including car repairs – Ram Autos, jaguar garage, Clapton Auto Repairs - re-spray, foam supplies, Plaster-works - plaster casting and moulding, Horse Workshops - welding/metalwork, bespoke furniture - three workshops, fiberglass moulding, fun fur supplies, warehousing for Hackney Building Supplies

The existing businesses provide essential services to the local and East London community

If this site goes all these businesses will either shut up shop or move out of the borough. Many of the businesses like Ram Autos, Clapton Accident Repair, and Hackney Builders Supplies provide essential services to the local community. Even in our workshop despite working nationally we undertake steel supply and provide welding services to local people who just knock on the door. The fun fur and foam warehouses supply the furniture trade in all of East London. Two of the furniture businesses supply the Jewish community, one with bespoke Synagogue fittings. It is good for the businesses and good for the community that we remain embedded in the neighborhood. There is no proven need for neat workspace as proposed in the development (they are going under flats remember), whereas the site is currently fully occupied showing the demand for light industrial units. In fact there is a waiting list.

The proposed blocks are massive

The mass and density of the proposed buildings will create a precedent for other developments in the area. The area is in fact characterized by low rise two/three story houses with larger blocks dispersed around but quite few and far between. The developer thinks he has dealt with this by scaling the blocks from six stories at the front to three stories at the back, but the density is still way way way above the average for the area. The blocks volumetrically represent roughly a doubling of the mass of the site.

And will cause unprecedented pressure on local services

The higher density will increase pressure on local services - schools, medical/social/council services and transport. Coupled with other developments in the neighborhood either underway or planned there will be massive population influx to an area with services already at their limit.

The history of Clapton will be further wiped off the face of the earth

The current proposal completely eradicates the history of the area. The site will be leveled and no trace of its previous form or use is preserved. The Tram Depot is a major part of Clapton's history and is architecturally good in its own right. The blocks that will replace it are nondescript the-same-as-anywhere-generic modern blocks with rubbishy purposeless wood panels.

Gated dormitory for commuters

The site will be gated so is not permeable to local residents. Presently we have our own yard for parking and deliveries which does not impact on surrounding streets. Potential customers can simply knock on our doors and talk to us about jobs.

Thank you for your help and support.

.............................

UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE

VIDEO minutes of meeting

This video is part of the meeting held on Tue 7th Oct at the college.
I took it for minuting purposes on my phone so the video is poor compared to the audio,
which is worth listening to.
(that's why the video looks unfinished)
You'll get an idea of just how important it is that the Tram Depot stays as is
or is renovated, not re-developed.

END OF UPDATE
END OF UPDATE

Don't dump it, use FreeCycle

To find a FreeCycle group(s) near you, just click on this link:

http://www.freecycle.org/group/UK/?noautodetect=1

It's free to join and use.

Why dump stuff you no longer need if it still works or is serviceable?
Let someone else have - and they'll collect from your door.

The best solution is to post the item on FreeCycle.

I've just seen 2 car bicycle racks/holders next to the bins that are perfectly complete and usable. They'll end up in landfill unless someone passing happens to want them.

As the name "FreeCycle" suggests you must offer the item(s) free for collection.
You can sign up to a FreeCycle group in your area and/or the London group. I'm a member of Hackney, Islington East and London FreeCycle.
It's a great place to find items as well.

Here's the link for Hackney FreeCycle:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hackney_freecycle/

I found a fridge and (under counter) oven plus hob on FreeCycle (all less than a year old) posted locally and now have them in my kitchen.

Many people, when they buy a new house, rip out perfectly good kitchens simply because they want a different style. Rather than sell the items or less the builder dump everything, the people in the know use FreeCycle.

You can "offer" and or "collect" virtually everything!!

From books to cameras to beds to cars

When you join a group I recommend you select not to accept notifications by email as there are hundreds - rather select to view all posts online (ie on the webpage for the group). You'll get the option in the signing up process.

Here is a random example page:


click on it to see it bigger

To find a FreeCycle group near you, go to:

http://www.freecycle.org/group/UK/?noautodetect=1

It's free to join & use - and you'll be helping to save the planet!

Great TRA day out at Kew Gardens

UPDATE - Mon 18th August
More Kew photos available
taken on a 35mm film camera.
(The ones below were taken on a digital camera)

Click on the "Flickr.com" panel about 12 inches down on the left hand side to see them
and be able to download them in 5 sizes from thumbnail to around A2 landscape.
There are currently 9 more photos with still more to come.


On Sunday 27th of July the TRA had the planned day out to Kew.
We left by coach at 9.30am and returned around 6pm.
The weather was glorious and Kew was brilliant as always.



Here are a few of the digital shoots I took - there are a lot more to chose from, some of which I'll add later. I have yet to have the 35mm shots developed. I'll post some of those either here on Flickr.com
I'll give you the link asap.

As you can see, the first 3 I've already played around with a bit in Adobe Photoshop CS3 & Lightroom. Some have before and after shots.

click on any photo to see it full size
They are all around A3

If you missed out this it's your own fault - god knows we advertised enough. All residents had glossy A5 leaflets through the door along with another ad in the Beecholme newsletter, plus posters in all the notice boards for weeks.

Be sure to look out for our next "TRA Day Out"

Stick-on artwork for the estates bins

These are just to show the concept.
I'm not suggesting we use these particular images.
They do, however, show what a difference covering them will make.

You'll be happy to hear the idea will go ahead as a majority vote at the
recent TRA meeting confirmed.

I'll keep you informed on new designs here.

Enhanced TRA meeting Wed 23rd July 2008

Click on the poster to bring it up a little larger or right click and select "open in new tab"

Here's the first "off the top of my head" creation for this upcoming TRA meeting.
I'm not sure if it will be the final one used. It just depends on whether I can come up with something I think will be more effective - or just plain better.

What do you think?
Do you like it?
Did it attract your attention?

Leave a comment below or email me at:
david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk.

New estate signs are up

Estate News and Notices for June & July '08

click on the newsletter above to see it full size

The newsletter above will be coming through your letterbox
within the next week or so.

the important dates to note down are:

1. Kew Trip - Sun 27th July, leaving 9.30am
(book your seat & free entrance on 020 8806 7539)

2. TRA Special General Meeting - Tue 5th Aug at 7.30pm
(to approve changes to update our TRA constitution)

FREE "Day trip" to Kew Gardens

Open to all Beecholme residents and Hackney Homes residents living in Casimir, Cleveleys and Gunton Roads.

We'll be going via a luxury 53 seat coach there and back.
All entrance fees will be paid for.
You only need to either bring a snack or enough cash to buy one there,
everything else is paid for through the efforts of
the Tenants & Residents association

As the advert above says,

Phone Michael on
020 8806 7539
to reserve your seat or seats.
or email
kewtrip@beecholme.co.uk

Michael will also be able to answer any questions about the day you have.

Cycle shelter approved by TRA

Here's is an example of what we're after.
This one is outside the Nightingale Practice in Kenninghall Rd.

Well, the Beecholme Spring newsletter secure cycle shelter ad had a good response and we now have enough residents wanting a space to warrant getting one.
It will be either a 10 or 12 bike shelter similar to this one:

It's hard to see on the photo but it is covered with a heavy transparent plastic which is vandal and graffiti proof - as well as keeping the cycles out of the weather.

The 2008 EIB (Environmental Improvement Budget) has yet to be set by Hackney Homes so there will be some delay. I hope it will be before the best of the warm cycling weather passes.

It will probably be installed outside the hall, on the bitumen. However, there are a couple of other possible sites around the estate. We will ask residents their preferred spot.

I will keep you informed of developments here.

New estate informational/instructional signage & UPDATE 21st June 2008

Above is the final artwork for the new signs.
As you can see, they're pretty close to the visual below. I think the grey border adds a touch of sophistication. Fortunately it is a Hackney Homes palette colour, as is the orange and green.
Hope you like them.
Within the next couple of weeks I hope to see all 24 new signs up around the estate.

The above is to show the alteration to the Beecholme logo rather than the design of this particular sign, namely the addition of "THE" and "ESTATE".

The general layout will probably remain the same though the colour of the background and flat no's may change.

The above is one of the "informational" signs, the "instructional" sign being signs such as "Strictly No Ball Games".

The idea is to coordinate all the estate signage both in style and colour while retaining the information/instruction delineation.

The signage was discussed recently at our TRA AGM.
I will be asking for the go-ahead for my final designs from the TRA committee members over the next week.

If you are a resident and have a view about the estate signage please
contact me, David White (secretary B&C TRA)
email: david@davidwhitedesign.co.uk.

New Beecholme Estate sign in Casimir Rd

Here it is in situ in Casimir road.

Below is a copy of the artwork, so if you click on it you'll see it
larger and in more detail.




IF YOU CLICK ON THE MAP IT WILL COME UP LARGER
& SHOW YOU THE MAP PANEL BOUNDS/EDGES

This is the new map for Casimir Road I've just finished.

It will be at the sign makers (the artwork on disc, that is) on Tuesday after noon, so if there are any glaring mistakes or items you want changed and feel strongly about, call or email me at: