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Controversial deferred planning applications return to next week's Brent Planning Committee

June 3, 2020, 6:35 am
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While most Brent Council committee meetings have been cancelled or postponed, as well as the Council's AGM which was due to be held this week, the Planning Committee continues via the internet.

Nex Wednesday's meeting considers a number of heavy-weight planning applications, worth millions, including two that were deferred at the May 6th meeting.

The application for Ujima House, on Wembley High Road, was deferred after a late objection was received from the landowner of neighbouring Lanmor House. His email objecting is not available on the Planning Portal (it is just noted) and of course as usual the 'Consultee' comments are linked but not actually published.

The email's contents can only be gleaned from the Planning Officers' summary LINK:

Additional objection 

Objections have been received on behalf of the owner of the adjoining site at Lanmor House (370 to 386 High Road) and part owner of 26-29 Ecclestone Place. 

A summary of the concerns are set out below: 

1. Consultation
The objector considers that there was a lack of consultation with the adjoining land owner during both pre-application and application stages. 

With regards to consultation requirements for the planning application itself, the Council did post site notices outside the application site and the application was advertised in the local press. In addition, consultation letters were sent to all nearby occupiers. This included the commercial space and all flats within Lanmor House, and 26 to 29 Ecclestone Place. 

The Council therefore exceeded its statutory duty for consulting on the planning application.
Further details of the comments received (including an objection received from 27 Ecclestone Place) are discussed within the “consultation” section below. 

The NPPF paragraph 40 states that local planning authorities should encourage applicants to engage with the local community before submitting their applications, and Brent's adopted Statement of Community Involvement reinforces this by setting out recommended pre-application engagement for planning applications. For an application of this scale, discussions with neighbours and public meetings and exhibitions are recommended. However pre-application engagement is not a statutory requirement. In this case, local residents were invited to attend two public exhibitions and give feedback on the proposals, although non-resident property owners were not explicitly invited. 

2. Accuracy of reporting
The objector considers that there was a lack of consideration of the proposal upon Lanmor House, taking into account the recent planning history and works carried out to Lanmor House. They also raised concern about the scale of surrounding buildings not being accurately reported and inaccurate reference to the building line being in line with adjoining sites where in fact it projects forward, and the resulting impact of the forward projection upon neighbouring amenity. 

The above matters are discussed within the "remarks" section below. 

3. Building scale and mass of envelope parameters
The objector has expressed concern about the footprint and resulting depth of the building and the impact on neighbouring occupiers, specifying that there would be an overdevelopment of the site. 

4. Separation distances, privacy and outlook
The objector is concerned about the potential for overlooking and a loss of privacy and outlook to Lanmor House and 26 to 29 Ecclestone Place. 

Once again, this is expanded upon within the "remarks" section below.
5. Daylight and Sunlight
The objector considers that there are inaccuracies within the daylight and sunlight report in terms of the reporting of the windows within Lanmor House and no consideration of the impact upon the communal roof top garden in Lanmor House. 

This is expanded upon within the "remarks" section below.
6. Right of Light
The objector has highlighted that whilst outside of the remit of planning, the Council should be aware of its legal position regarding rights of light. As highlighted by the objector, this is outside the remit of planning. 

7. Highway matters
Matters have been raised with regards to construction traffic, servicing and delivery traffic, and access to the proposed building.
This has been discussed within the remarks section below. 

8. Streetscene
The objector considers that the assessment of the impact on the streetscape does not consider the curve in this part of the High Road and the potential for a “canyoning” effect along this part of the High Road with the nine storey building on the opposite side. Concerns are raised with the impact on the micro-climate wind tunnelling effect. They also believe that the Design and Access Statement misrepresents the building when viewed from the east as it is only shown as nine storeys.
These matters are discussed within the "remarks" section below. 
The  officers find reasons to reject the objection (see report linked above) and recommend approval of outline planning permission but it appears likely that the owner of Lanmor House will take things further.

The second deferred item is the development at Sudbury Town Station. This was initially rejected outright by the Planning Committee but officers' quickly proposed that it be deferred so that they could talk with the developer, Transport for London and this was, controversially, accepted by Committee members. LINK

These discussions have resulted in an offer by the developer  to contribute £600,000 to 'enable the provision of six 3 bedroomed houses' off-site. Committee members may wish to explore the mathematics involved.

The developer has also offered one additional blue badge parking space and confirmed that the offer of contributing to the cost of a CPZ would be available for 10 years.

The officers report LINK  gives a blurb for the Committee to adopt if they are minded to still refuse the application.





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North Brent School (Neasden Lane) planning application at Planning Committee next Wednesday

June 3, 2020, 8:23 am
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The proposed building on Neasden Lane
Chancel House
The school plan
The planning application for the new school in Neasden lane (currently, rather confusingly called North Brent School) goes to the on-line Planning Committee on Wednesday June 10th.

The school will be part of the Wembley High School Academy Trust and some children are expected to travel down from the north of Brent and from Wembley High itself, as well as from Harlesden and neighbouring areas.  There has been some parental demand for a secular secondary school in the area in the past and Brent Council's pupil projections indicate the need for two more secondary schools - although that may change post-Brexit and post-Covid.

The building design looks like many of the period and there is more outdoor space than schools such as Michaela.  However, one of these spaces is a Muga (multi-use games area) on the school roof overlooking Neasden Lane.

Those familiar with the area know that Neasden Lane is one of the most polluted roads in Brent and also has heavy vehicles, including skip trucks, accessing the industrial area between the proposed school and the station.
Industrial area off Neasden Lane

Wembley Matters has already expressed concern about the proposed Ark Somerville, with a roof top playground overlooking a busy road, and this application follows a similar pattern. The question arises is why, when the Council is attempting to mitigate the impact of air pollution on existing schools, is it permitting the building of new schools on polluted roads?

The answer is partly the lack of other suitable sites and also the desire to build near transport links. There is little in the officers' report about air pollution but the Velocity Active Transport report looks at the routes to the school:

Route 1
This route connects the site to the residential areas located north of the Dudden Hill Lane / Neasden Lane roundabout. This route also connects the site to Neasden Underground Station north of the proposed development.
Clean air– According to the London Air Quality Network, this section of the carriageway fails the annual mean objective for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air pollution indicating unacceptable air quality. This is likely due to the high volume of vehicles that travel along this main road. An investigation could be done into how the timing controls at the junction along Neasden Lane could be improved to reduce exposure to air pollution from motor vehicles. 

Route 2
This route connects the site to the residential areas located east and west of Church Road, southwest of the proposed development.
Clean air– According to the London Air Quality Network, this section of the carriageway fails the annual mean objective for NO2 air pollution indicating unacceptable air quality. This is likely due to the high volume of vehicles that travel along this main road. An investigation could be done into how the timing controls at the junction could be improved to reduce exposure to air pollution from motor vehicles. Adding some planter boxes with low level planting would also help mitigate the impact of air pollution. 

Route 3
This route connects the site to bus stops (Willesden Magistrates Court) on High Road southeast of the proposed development.
Clean air– According to the London Air Quality Network, this section of the carriageway fails the annual mean objective for NO2 air pollution indicating unacceptable air quality. This is likely due to the four signalised junctions. An investigation could be done into how the timing controls at the junction could be improved to reduce exposure to air pollution from motor vehicles. Adding some planter boxes with low level planting would also help mitigate the impact of air pollution. 

Route 4
This route connects the residential area beyond Dollis Hill underground station the east of the proposed development. This route also connects the site to the bus stop on Dudden Hill Lane (Chapter Road stop DK and DG).
Clean air– According to the London Air Quality Network, this section of carriageway fails the annual mean objective for NO2 air pollution indicating that the air quality is unacceptable. This is likely due to the high level of traffic present in this area. To further reduce air pollution, improved footway infrastructure could be introduced to encourage walking

I don't find the mitigation proposals very convincing but more worrying is not the walk to school but the exposure to pollution of both staff and pupils over a long period while in the school and its grounds.  The school building is closer to the main road than Chancel House, but the report states that these will be the 'noisy areas', with classrooms towards the back.

A proposal in original plans that 4 coaches should transport children from the north of Brent to the school in the morning and back again in the afternoon has been reduced to one after opposition from TfL and £750,000 will be paid to them to improve existing bus routes.  The 297 route is on Neasden Lane itself, 260 and 266 on Willesden High Road, and 226 and 302 on Dudden Hill Lane. Neasden Station on the Jubilee line is close by.

The proposal includes space for staff and pupil cycle parking (up to 172 for pupils)g but I challenge the planners to attempt to cycle from the Civic Centre to Chancel House and, if they survive,  report back on the experience.

Apart from the obvious positive of a brand new secondary school for Brent children, is that in an area without many mature trees, the landmark willow on the bend of Neasden Lane will be retained.








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NEU survey shows realities of wider opening of schools

June 4, 2020, 1:45 am
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From the National Education Union

Respondents to a survey conducted by the National Education Union between 31 May and 1 June, reveals the pragmatism of schools when asked to open more widely under easing of lockdown.

44% of schools did not open more widely to the any of the year groups suggested by the Prime minister on 1 June - with the vast majority of them remaining open to key worker/vulnerable children as they have been since 23 March.

35% of schools opened on 1 June on the terms expected by the Prime Minister.

21% of schools opened more widely, but on less than the terms expected by the Prime Minister.

By the end of this week, an additional 6% of schools will have opened more widely, but more than two-thirds of them to less than the eligible set of year groups.

The regional variation in school openings tracks closely with the levels of Coronavirus in each region. Just 12% of schools in the North East and 8% in the North West – where levels of coronavirus are higher – opened fully to all eligible year groups in their school.

23,045 members responded to the survey. One representative from each school was used in the final weighting. In total 10,953 schools are covered by the sample, amounting to 63% of nursery and primary schools in England (17,322). Results have been filtered where relevant to exclude ‘don’t know’ or ‘no answer’, resulting in a smaller sample for some questions while remaining a reflection of schools not members.

Pupil numbers expected:

Less than 25% 16%
Between 25%-50% 41%
Between 51%-75% 32%
Between 76%-99% 9%
100% 1%

Commenting on the results, Kevin Courtney, Joint General Secretary of the National Education Union, said:
Schools have been open throughout lockdown, caring for children of key workers and vulnerable children. It is clear from our latest survey, marking the start of lockdown easing, that many schools intend to delay wider opening. Some are not extending their opening beyond key workers and vulnerable children this term. Many have delayed wider opening until later in June. Others will be opening for some but not all the age groups recommended by Government. All this will make our communities safer.

It was always reckless of Boris Johnson to set an arbitrary date and expect schools to fall in line. Heads and their staff know far more about their individual challenges than Whitehall ever will. As the regional variation according to Coronavirus levels show, schools are listening to the science rather than politicians.

This disconnect should be a wake-up call for Government. Not only is the safety of the Government’s plan in question but also the feasibility of it and confidence of headteachers in what the Prime Minister requested. The Prime Minister should now act to ensure that education unions are involved in the planning of further steps as they are in Scotland and Wales.

The NEU and many prominent scientists, including Independent SAGE, believe it would have been safer for all schools to begin the move to a wider opening in a couple of weeks from now, when the number of new cases per day should be lower and the system of testing, tracking and isolation of new cases is bedded in.

Our survey shows this continues to be a complex, challenging situation for schools. Heads, teachers and support staff are using their professional judgement, working with the children they teach in circumstances where official guidance has been published long after planning needs to start.
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Save Bridge Park Community campaigners welcome a 'powerful decision' in their favour

June 4, 2020, 5:53 am
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From Bridge Park Community Council Steering Group

 
BRIDGE PARK COMMUNITY COUNCIL STEERING GROUP

PRESS RELEASE

SAVE BRIDGE PARK CAMPAIGN

Community campaigners welcome a powerful decision in their favour


Appeal Court agrees to hear Stonebridge Community Trust case for being allowed to make its Charitable Arguments:
On 30 July, Master Clarke accepted the local authority’s argument that as the Attorney General, Geoffrey Cox, MP, had not joined the proceedings, then the Charitable Trust argument had to be struck out from the defence.  That result would have dealt a blow to the community campaigners’ defence.
On 13thSeptember, leave to appeal the decision was refused by Master Clarke, so the community campaigners applied for permission to appeal this legal point to a higher Judge, resulting in this latest successful outcome. 
On 6thNovember 2019, at the High Court Appeal Centre, the Honourable Mr. Justice Birss ruled that the community campaigners be granted permission to appeal the orders of 21st March and 13th September 2019.

At the Appeals Centre, the Honourable Mr. Justice Birss, explained that “…..the decision of the Attorney General not to join the proceedings does not prevent the community and those who represent them from maintaining a Charitable Trust argument.  He concluded by saying, “.the arguments put forward as grounds of appeal on behalf of the defendants have a real as opposed to fanciful prospect of success at trial. 

 ‘Community campaigners welcome TWO powerful decisions
 in their favour’.
1.    Feb 2020 – “Community Activist threatens Community’s Legal Defence”

In the Royal Courts of Justiceon Thursday Feb 6, 2020 -
Patricia Grace Guthrie a local activist based in Camden, states that she teamed up with a Daniel Galimore and Nigel Goodison, as they thought that they could fight the Save Bridge Park campaign better than BPCC (who have blocked the sale for three years and fought and won the legal case at the first key test hearing February 2019).  Grace tried to persuade the High Court to let her join on behalf of her new team and she submitted privileged BPCC evidence and made erroneous statements in support.

Her legal arguments, were in effect against BPCC, so would have helped Brent to sell Bridge Park by attempting to remove our claim that
 *1.* HPCC were promised the Freehold (Estopple by convention), and;
 *2.* of there being a Charitable Trust by the actions and method of the purchase (in 1982) demonstrated by the protective GLC covenant which Brent removed.

Fortunately, The High Court agreed with our legal position (this without making any judgement on the merits of the main case in relation to Brent and ourselves, to be heard later this hear circa July 2020). The Judge threw Grace's arguments and case out (stating amongst other things.... that it had no basis in Law)! Brent won their costs against her. Whilst she was hostile towards BPCC/ HPCC we still persuaded our lawyers to show goodwill and not to apply for their entitled similar costs. So ONLY Brent Lawyers were awarded their costs £14,000 (within 28 days) against Patricia Grace Guthrie.

We have the full backing of the Cllrs, Lawyers, Press, Public and most importantly, our Community - proof backed up by their signed and written questionnaires also a petition.
www.bridgeparkcomplex.com/our-vision

Jay Mastin, Chair, Bridge Park Community Council Steering Group (BPCC) said
“This is a very powerful decision in favour of the community.  BPCC recognises the commitment from the community to support the Save Bridge Park campaign.  We also recognize our accountability to the community.  To that end, BPCC have produced the Chair’s Report covering the start of the campaign in June 2017 to date.  (see our website: www.bridgeparkcomplex.com).
The Current Position

We are pleased to report we have gone on to win our appeal hearing (attached) and will now go on to full Trial, with a window between July - Nov 2020. 

The Save Bridge Park campaign lost a decision in relation to the Attorney General and being able to continue our Charitable Trust arguments in our defence. We put in an application to the High Court to appeal that decision and the costs awarded A copy of the 29th April 2020 Judgement, Order and Attorney General's letter can be viewed on our website www.bridgeparkcomplex.com.
I trust you will agree our case is unique and maybe legally exceptional, please consider supporting in our favour www.bridgeparkcomplex.com/donations . Our appeal hearing was granted on 9th November 2019. This was the opening to a potentially landmark moment.    

 “This successful Appeal which was heard during the Covid-19outbreak in March 2020, is another big step in our steady fight to victory for the Community. No one believed in our arguments but we know the story, gathered our own evidence and slowly persuaded those in the know. Bridge Park Land & Complex is unique and is the largest project of its type in Europe. I feel our fight for justice may go on to create a legal precedent. Please see our story visit us on - www.bridgeparkcomplex.com”.
Jay Mastin, Chair, BPCC Steering Group and Director, Stonebridge Community Trust





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Brent NEU set out criteria for wider re-opening of schools in context of the number of local Covid19 cases, test results delay and BAME vulnerability

June 4, 2020, 11:23 am
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Following a meeting of Brent National Education Union yesterday, the union has written to headteachers summarising the membership's position on wider school  opening. It has set out what it wishes to see in place in risk assessments in order for members to support wider re-opening.  If they are not in place they do not think it will be safe to return.

The NEU says that its position is based on their evidence from members' meetings and advisers that it is typically taking 2-3 weeks to get Covid19 tests results. The NEU state that there are still over 1400 live cases in Brent and a huge proportion of the school workforce and families are from BAME backgrounds and have suffered the loss of loved ones close to them over the last few months as a result.

BRENT NEU STATEMENT ON THE WIDER REOPENING OF SCHOOLS:
  • We request that all schools push back wider reopening to at least 15th June
  • We request to see in the whole school risk assessment a statement that if one person develops symptoms, they are isolated then sent home. ALL their "bubble" goes home at the end of the day and does not return for 14 days UNLESS there is a negative test result. IF there is a positive test result the whole building is closed while there is a deep clean.
  • We request to see in the risk assessment a statement that all staff in vulnerable categories and living with people in vulnerable categories, as well as people with BME backgrounds, are allowed to opt to continue to work from home until this is reviewed. In addition we request individual risk assessments, where staff would like them, for males over 55 and for staff that have no option but to use public transport
  • We request the school to allow staff to use PPE in all situations where social distancing is not possible, and train staff in the correct use of this, and provide sufficient PPE for this
  • We request to see in the risk assessment an agreement to have at least weekly reviews of the risk assessment with union reps. If there is no rep we would like to be invited to recruit one in your school
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Black Lives Matter events Saturday morning Kilburn Grange and Roundwood parks

June 5, 2020, 8:23 am
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Do please take care to social distance 2 metres and wear face covering



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Tameside schools advised to delay wider reopening

June 5, 2020, 9:03 am
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 A long way away from Brent but shows the importance of taking local factors into account and the importance of the role of the LA Director of Public Health.

Press Release: 05/06/2020
 
TAMESIDE schools are being advised to delay wider reopening until at least 22 June in response to the regional rise in the R rate and the associated increased risks to public health.

The borough's schools were due to start welcoming more pupils back from Monday 8 June following the half term holiday.

However Tameside Council Director of Public Health Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy has today (Friday 5 June) written to all headteachers to strongly advise them to delay the wider reopening until there is further assurance that the Covid 19 infection rate is reducing and the R rate is firmly below 1.

This follows new data published today showing that the regional R rate has risen above 1 as well as local information that infection rates remain higher and health services are stretched.

In addition to the advice to schools, all Tameside residents are being urged to stay at home where possible and continue to observe strict social distancing measures – particularly now the weather has changed and people may be tempted to gather and socialise indoors.

Schools will be contacting parents and carers to inform them of their individual plans in response to the new advice.

All settings will continue to remain open for vulnerable children and the children of key workers as they have been since the start of the national lockdown.

The situation will be monitored and reviewed on a weekly basis.
 
The letter from Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy states:

Tameside Council understands that this is an extremely challenging time for all who live in our borough but recognises fully the many acts of kindness which local residents have undertaken to support each other. We would like to pay special tribute to the work of headteachers, staff, school governors and childcare providers for their fantastic work in supporting children and families during this and your brilliant contribution to the Borough’s response to Covid 19.

Nationally, the government is requesting that schools and childcare settings start to increase the numbers of pupils attending over the coming weeks. Our local approach, as you know, has been to focus on making safe and sensible decisions and maintaining, wherever possible collective approaches which can inform local decisions. Headteachers and their staff, in partnership with the Local Authority, have done excellent preparatory work undertaking and completing risk assessments in their schools.

Members of SAGE (Scientific Advisory Group on Emergencies) and the Association of Directors of Public Health advised caution and concern about the too rapid easing of lockdown and the increased risk of a second pandemic wave. Balancing this concern, the national R number being between 0.7 to 1.0 and estimated at 0.73 in the North West and the importance of having our children back at school, I supported the limited increase in the number of children attending planned in the Borough from Monday 8th June.

However information released at 2pm today estimates the R value is now above the critical value of 1 for the North West, at 1.01.

Because of this change in R, and despite the excellent work undertaken, I am therefore strongly advising all schools and childcare settings to delay wider opening until at least 22  June for us to be more assured that the rate of infection is reducing and R is firmly below 1.

All settings should continue to remain open for vulnerable children and the children of key workers as they have been since the start of the national lockdown.

I will continue to monitor what is a fast-evolving situation very closely and keep my advice to you under constant review. I will write to you all again next Friday with a further update and advice on wider opening.

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Step Up Hub Covid-19 BAME Impact Survey

June 6, 2020, 12:54 am
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Step Up Hub would like to hear from local Black Asian Minority Ethnic groups (BAME) to ascertain the impact of the Covid 19 crisis is having on our communities in Brent.

The on-line form can be accessed HERE
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The Wembley Park Story - Part 4

June 6, 2020, 3:56 am
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The fourth part of Philip Grant's series on the history of Wembley Park



We left Part 3 (“click” if you missed it) just after the British Empire Exhibition had closed in 1925. Its site and the buildings on it had cost around £12m (equivalent to over £700m now), but the Liquidator’s attempt to sell them at auction as a single lot was withdrawn, with the highest offer at £350k. It was later bought for just £300k by Jimmy White, a speculator who paid 10% of this “up front”, with the balance payable as the buildings were sold off.


Many of the people who worked at the exhibition had been unemployed ex-servicemen. Arthur Elvin was one of these, working in a cigarette kiosk in 1924. He saved as much of his £4 10s wages as he could, and leased eight kiosks himself when the exhibition reopened in 1925, selling sweets and souvenirs as well. He bought and demolished his first small building on the site in 1926, selling the metal for scrap and rubble as hardcore for road construction. After reinvesting the profits several times, within a year he offered £122,500 for the stadium.

1. Wembley Stadium, after demolition of the BEE pavilions, c.1927. (Image from the internet)

Elvin had paid £12,500 deposit to White, with the balance payable over ten years, when in August 1927 the Official Receiver demanded it all within a fortnight! Jimmy White had only ever paid the initial £30k for the buildings, gambled away the rest, and then shot himself. By working together with friends and banks, Elvin managed to complete the purchase. Aged 28, he was the managing director of the Wembley Stadium and Greyhound Racecourse Company Ltd.

2. Greyhound and speedway racing events at Wembley Stadium. (Images from old books on the stadium)

Few had thought the stadium could be saved from demolition, with the Cup Final as its only annual booking. The company name is a clue to how Elvin believed it could be made profitable. He introduced greyhound racing, three times a week, from 1928, and motorcycle speedway, with his Wembley Lions team, from 1929, both with regular crowds in excess of 60,000. The pre-match entertainment he put on for the football final, including community singing (“Abide with me”), attracted the Rugby League cup final in 1929, with Wembley as its home ever since.


With greyhounds the only winter attraction, Elvin saw another possibility to keep Wembley’s 400 employees in full-time work during the early 1930s depression, after watching an ice hockey game at Earls Court in 1932. His plans crystalized when the second British Empire Games were planned for London in 1934. Working with Sir Owen Williams, who had designed the stadium, the Empire Pool was constructed of reinforced concrete in just nine months.

3. L-R, Duke of Gloucester, Sir Owen Williams and Arthur Elvin at the Pool opening. (From an old book)


The Pool was opened on 25 July 1934, just in time for the swimming and diving events of the Games. The boxing and wrestling competitions followed, in a ring on a bridge across the pool. Then the public could enjoy the pool for swimming throughout the summer. As soon as the speedway season finished in October, its fans could support a new Wembley Lions ice hockey team. The pool was drained for the winter, and the rink on a floor above it could be used for public skating, when the Lions or a second team, the Wembley Monarchs, were not playing.

4. A 1934 Empire Pool advert, and swimmers enjoying it. (From a Pool programme, and an old book) 

5. Ice hockey programme, and a match at the Empire Pool, both late 1930s. (From old programme and book)

While Arthur Elvin was making Wembley Park a major sporting venue, the exhibition buildings that had not been demolished were put to new uses. The former Lucullus Restaurant, alongside Wembley Park Drive, became a film studio. The huge Palaces of Industry and Engineering were split up into units for manufacturing or warehouses. Elvin used the Palace of Arts as storage space, for the platform which supported the ice rink, and the banked timber track used for cycling races inside the Empire Pool, but it was soon to be required for another purpose.


In the late 1930s, Germany under Adolf Hitler aimed to become a dominant force. The Empire Pool hosted the European Swimming Championships in 1938, and Germany easily topped the medal table. After war broke out the following year, Wembley Council took over the Palace of Arts as the centre for its A.R.P. organisation. When thousands of British troops were evacuated from Dunkirk in May 1940, many were brought to the stadium, which was used as an emergency dispersal centre. Refugees from France, Belgium and Holland followed, and were given temporary accommodation in the Empire Pool, before being rehomed across the country. 

6. A Civil Defence review at Wembley Stadium, October 1942. (Image from Brent Archives)

Wartime parades and reviews made use of the stadium, and other events, including greyhound racing, continued throughout the war. Service men and women could attend free. There were many charity matches, like an England v. Scotland football international in February 1944, with King George VI, Princess Elizabeth and Field Marshall Montgomery in the Royal Box, which raised a record £18,000. Others were inter-service games, including baseball and American Football between teams from the U.S. ground and air forces in 1943/44, ahead of D-Day. 

7. A U.S. Services baseball game at Wembley Stadium in 1943. (Still image from a newsreel film)

The stadium was used as a landmark by the Luftwaffe, on their way to raids north of London, but Wembley Park was also a target. A German airman, whose bomber was shot down locally, had a map marking the location of an R.A.F. storage depot (the former Palace of Industry!). Bombs hit the stadium on three occasions, and a V1 “doodlebug” landed on the kennels, killing a number of greyhounds, in 1944. Each Christmas, during the war, Mr and Mrs Elvin and their stadium team provided a free Christmas dinner for hundreds of local service personnel who could not get home. In 1945, Elvin was awarded the M.B.E. for his wartime efforts.


There had been no Olympic Games in 1940 or 1944, and when London was invited to stage the 1948 Olympiad, the Government almost declined the offer because of post-war austerity. Then, at the start of 1947, Elvin offered his facilities at Wembley Park, free of charge, so the Games could go ahead. The Stadium company also agreed to build a new access road from the station. Until early 1948, about one third of the labour on this project was provided by German prisoners of war. The new road, named Olympic Way, cost £120k and opened in July.

8. German P-o-W’s at work on Olympic Way in 1947. (Still image from a film made at the time)
9. Wembley Town Hall, in Forty Lane, decorated for the Olympics in July 1948. (Brent Archives image 3829)

The Borough of Wembley really got behind the Games. Many residents took paying guests into their homes, as there were few hotels for spectators to stay at. Entertainments for visitors were arranged by the Council. A school in Alperton was one of those used to house male competitors, and the families of several pupils played host to some of their female team mates.

10. The Olympic Games opening ceremony at Wembley Stadium. (Brent Archives, 1948 Olympics Report)

On 29 July 1948, packed crowds watched the opening ceremony. Boy Scouts from Wembley carried the names of the 59 countries taking part, in front of their teams in the parade. Thousands of residents lined the streets, as a relay of local runners carried the Olympic torch on its way to the stadium, ready to light the flame that marked the start of the Games.

11. Olympic Way, with crowds going to the stadium for the Games, July 1948. (Image from the internet)

For over two weeks, Wembley Park and its new Olympic Way were full of visitors to this great sporting occasion, and they were not disappointed. New heroes emerged, like Emil Zatopek of Czechoslovakia, who won gold in the 10,000 metres and finished second in the 5,000m by just 0.4 of a second, and Arthur Wint, winning Jamaica’s first ever Olympic gold medal in the 400m, after silver in the 800m. Housewife and mother, Fanny Blankers-Koen of The Netherlands was the heroine of the Games, winning four athletics golds.


 
The Olympic Games (1948) – BFI / National Archives


Elvin, now Sir Arthur, must have enjoyed the event that made “his” venue the centre of the sporting world. As well as the opening and closing ceremonies, the stadium hosted the athletics events, football and hockey finals and the show jumping competition. The Empire Pool staged the swimming and diving, the water polo final, and then, after bridging the pool again, the boxing bouts. Part of the Palace of Engineering was used for the fencing competitions, and the Palace of Arts was taken over by the BBC, to become the Broadcasting Centre for the Games.


Could Wembley Park ever match the “high” of the 1948 Olympic Games again, or would it simply be forgotten as the years moved on? There will be more of its story to discover next weekend, and I look forward to sharing it with you.

Please use the comments section below if you have any questions from the series so far, or if you have information on Wembley Park that you would like to share, with me and others.

Philip Grant.
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Today's local Black Lives Matter events - Kilburn Grange, Roundwood and Gladstone parks

June 6, 2020, 9:45 am
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Local events were organised at short notice for local people who could not attend the event in Central London. I have picked up these pictures via social media. Thanks to original posters,

Kilburn Grange Park (@Shelleb17)

Roundwood Park (@PukkahPunjabi)

Roundwood Park (Anita Whittaker)

Gladstone Park (via email)

Dawn Butler's speech at Roundwood Park  on Facebook LINK
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Sad news from Fryent Country Park

June 7, 2020, 10:36 am
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Readers will know that I often write about Fryent Country Park on Wembley Matters and it has been a place of solace for many during the Covid19 lockdown with some local people discovering it for the first time.

So it was with heavy heart that that I heard that the bodies of two women were found near the Bush Farm entrance to the park in Salmon Street earlier today.

I'd like to express my sympathy to the families and friends of the two women for their shocking loss in this, the most stressful of times.

LINK

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Murder investigation launched over death of sisters in Fryent Country Park

June 8, 2020, 9:52 am
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From  the Metropolitan Police LINK

Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are investigating the deaths of two women in Wembley.

Police were called to Fryent Country Park, Slough Lane at 13:08hrs on Sunday, 7 June to a report of two women found unresponsive.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and they were pronounced dead at the scene.

While formal identification awaits, police are confident that the deceased are sisters Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, who lived in Harrow and Brent respectively.

Next of kin have been informed. Their family are being supported by specially trained officers.

Post-mortem examinations will be scheduled in due course.

Detectives have begun an extensive investigation to fully establish what happened.

At this stage Nicole and Bibaa are thought to have been among a group of around 10 people who congregated in the park from around 19:00hrs on Friday, 5 June to celebrate Bibaa’s birthday.

Gradually people are believed to have left throughout the evening until only Nicole and Bibaa remained.

They were both reported as missing to police late on Saturday, 6 June when they did not return home, before they were discovered on Sunday.

Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) are investigating, with the assistance of officers from the North West Command Unit.

The deaths are being treated as suspicious and a murder investigation has begun.

An extensive crime scene remains in the park.

There have been no arrests.

Senior investigating officer DCI Simon Harding said:

“We are in the very early stages of the investigation and are working hard to find out what led to these two women losing their lives. Their families have been devastated by their loss and they need answers. They have asked that their privacy is respected at this time as they come to terms with this horrific incident.

“I need to hear from anyone who was in Fryent Country Park on the evening of Friday, 5 June, or early into Saturday, 6 June. The area the group were situated in is around a five minute walk from the Valley Drive entrance of the park, leading to a hill area.

“The area the group were in would be a well-known spot to sit and look over London. If you were in that area of the park from the evening of 5 June through to Sunday lunchtime, noticed the group, or saw anything else suspicions, please contact us immediately.

“You may have stumbled upon items of property, but not realised the significance of them. If you did, you may well have information that could assist us hugely. No matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact us via the incident room on 0208 721 4205, or via 101.”

North West Borough Commander Roy Smith, said:

 “This is an awful incident and our thoughts are with the victims and their family.

“We are working closely with the investigation team to ensure we get answers to what has happened. Local officers will be conducting reassurance patrols and will be happy to speak to any concerned residents.”

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 3160/7Jun.

Alternatively, you can provide information 100% anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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Local Covid19 testing site to open tomorrow for Harlesden residents

June 9, 2020, 2:50 am
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From Brent Council


A new local COVID-19 testing site will open in Harlesden Town Garden on Wednesday 10 June for local residents.

As this area has one of the highest death tolls from COVID-19 in the UK, it’s hoped that the testing site will help to drive down these numbers by ensuring that those who have symptoms can get tested in an easily accessible location locally. If they test positive they can then take the necessary steps to self-isolate at home and prevent the spread of the virus.

This will be key to supporting those who may not be able to travel to one of the other test centres.

Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt said:
“COVID-19 has not gone away and it is still killing people in our community.
“I am urging any local residents, if they have symptoms, to get tested now to protect yourself and others, and help to stop the spread of this virus.”

Key information:

Where will the site be located?

The testing site will be at Harlesden Town Garden, Challenge Close, Harlesden, NW10 4BF.

When can I get a test?

The testing site will be open from Wednesday 10 June. Appointments will be available every day from 10am-5pm.

Tests must be booked by calling us 020 8937 4440. The line will be open seven days a week from 9am-5pm.

Who can book a test?

You can book a test if:
  • You have symptoms of COVID-19
  • You can travel to the test site on foot or by motorcycle or bicycle and don’t need to use public transport
  • You have access to a face covering
  • You adhere to social distancing at all times, when travelling to and from the site

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Most people with COVID-19 will have at least one of these symptoms:
  • A high temperature
  • Or a new cough
  • Or a change in sense of taste or smell
If you have any of these symptoms, you should book a test.

What do I need to bring to the test with me?

You must bring a valid form of ID, proof of your appointment confirmation email and a face covering.
If you do not have a valid form of ID or access to a mobile phone or have an email account, please discuss this when making your appointment.

Can I bring my family members with me?

Only those being tested should be at the test site. If you can’t leave your family at home, they may come with you but must wear a face covering however children under the age of 2 will not be permitted as it would be unsafe for them to wear a face covering.

What do I do while I’m waiting for my appointment or my test results?

While you are waiting for your appointment or your test result, you and everyone in your household must stay at home to prevent the spread of the infection.

When will I get my results?

Test results will not be held by the council. The testing site will send you your test results by email and text message within 24 – 72 hours of completing the test. If you don’t have an email address or a phone number, you can contact 119 for your results.
For more information about COVID-19, visit www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus
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Brent publishes a draft of its Covid19 Transport Recovery Plan

June 9, 2020, 10:07 am
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From Brent Council

COVID-19 has disrupted our daily travel habits. As lockdown restrictions are eased, we want to support and encourage people to adopt greener, more active forms of transport. We have developed a plan to introduce short, medium and longer-term improvements in the borough. The plan supports social distancing, walking and cycling, as well as a reduction in car use.

Draft measures include: new low traffic neighbourhoods, school streets, new pop up cycle lanes and bike parking, further pavement widening in town centres, and bus supporting measures. We have submitted an application for £100,000 of DfT funding and making bids to TfL for schemes under their £45m London Streetspace Programme. Schemes will commence shortly as funding becomes available. It will be periodically reviewed to include new interventions to address emerging priorities.

Please email highways&infrastructure@brent.gov.uk if you have any comments or suggestions.

We will be shortly launching an interactive platform to make it easier for residents to make suggestions and comment on our plans.

Draft Plan




For more information
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Brent Council says air quality is not a problem for new school in Neasden Lane

June 10, 2020, 2:58 am
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In a previous posting LINK I raised concerns about the siting of a new school in Neasden Lane because of its history of poor air quality which in the past have been raised in Parliamemt by then MP Sarah Teather and with the GLA through Mayor's Question Time. At one stage pollution levels were in clear breach of EU regulations. The monitoring site was one of those which Boris Johnson, when London Mayor, was accused of 'fixing' by the installation of dust suppressants at the monitoring station.

Brent Council has taken action to 'clean up' the pollution  LINK but has admitted that more needs to be done.

I should make it clear that I am not against a new secondary school in the Harlesden area, there has long been a campaign for a community secondary school there, but I am raising questions about the specific site chosen.  This is particularly important when Brent Council through Brent Breathes is setting out to improve air quality near existing schools and cites particular issues when existing schools are on busy roads. Full Brent Breathes Report HERE see section on schools.

Planners have reacted to the Wembley Matters article with the following statement in a supplementary report presented to tonight's Planning Committee.  There are also supplementary reports for the Sudbury Town and Ujima House planning appplications.


Air Quality

The site falls within an AQMA a recent publication by Wembley Matters raised concern with allowing a new school in an area with poor air quality, particularly an open roof MUGA. As discussed in the main body of the report, the application site has been identified as being one of the ones in the borough suitable to accommodate a school. 

The London Plan places great emphasis on the importance of tackling air pollution and improving air quality. It therefore states that development proposals should minimise exposure to existing poor air quality and make provision to address local problems of air quality such as by design solutions, buffer zones or steps to promote greater use of sustainable transport modes. 

The development makes a particular contribution through promoting greater use of sustainable transport modes. The existing Chancel House site currently benefits from a large car parking area with 189 car parking spaces. Under the proposed scheme only 11 spaces are to be retained. To further discourage car use to the site a travel plan is to be secured via the s106 agreement to promote walking and cycling to the site. Sustainable transport modes are also promoted through on site cycle parking provision and the contribution to TfL for local bus services. 

As required by the London Plan, the application has been accompanied by an Air Quality Assessment and an Air Quality Neutral Assessment. The submitted Air Quality Assessment concludes that air quality levels would not exceed air quality objectives when the site is operational, with the Air Quality Neutral Assessment confirming that the development is better than air quality neutral in terms of both transport and building emissions. 

The submission therefore demonstrates that air quality in the area will not have an adverse impact on the proposed school, and that the proposed development will not worsen air quality.


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Save Bridge Park hails a milestone legal victory as their case against Brent Council continues

June 10, 2020, 3:23 am
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http://bridgeparkcomplex.com/blog/
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Cllr Gill taunts "well resourced families'" concerned about QPCS 3G plans

June 10, 2020, 7:30 am
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Cllr Gill, (Brondesbury Park), is very dismissive of residents concerned about noise and light pollution from the proposed 3G pitch installation at Queens Park Community School. As well as school and community provision the facility will also be a commercial enterprise open at weekends and until 9pm at night.

On his comment LINK in support of the school's planning application he say on light pollution, 'The very well resourced families opposite can get black-out blinds' and on noise pollution, 'The very well resourced families living opposite can get double or even triple glazing.'

He adds, "Over the next ten years THOUSANDS of people (mainly local CHILDREN) will benefit from this pitch and for only a very small number of people (less than half a dozen families, who are very well-resourced and thus well able to offset the very minor issues this will cause them) will it have any negative impact."

Directing divisive comments at specific local households hardly seems to conform to the standards expected of councillors.
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Sufra Foodbank continues to make a difference to hundreds of lives as they wider their activity - they deserve your support

June 10, 2020, 7:46 am
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From Sufra Foodbank and Kitchen

The past three months at Sufra NW London have been extremely pivotal for our organisation and our community at large. From the onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic, we have come together to scale up our services to address the hunger and destitution caused by the conditions of the virus. We can’t say it has been easy; we have been challenged and stretched in every way, but we are eternally grateful for the monumental support we have received for our Coronavirus Emergency Appeal.

Analysing the current landscape of food inequality and the financial constraints that food banks all over the country are experiencing, we are certainly among the lucky ones.

For Sufra NW London, it was never just about food and money. Hunger and food security are certainly key issues, but we are more than a food bank. We have always been more than a food bank. The global pandemic has emphasised that hunger and the lack of food is just the tip of the iceberg for many families and individuals who use our services. Our beneficiaries – our guests– have often come to us at their breaking point. Some of them have bills they need to cover but not enough money left for food, some of them have lost their jobs and are struggling to put food on the table for their children, and some of them are so vulnerable to the virus that they have been confined to their homes, starving and isolated.

We have approached the crisis from a holistic perspective by providing our food bank users with food parcels as well as signposting services, advice, welfare checks, help with gas and electricity bills and other forms of support they may need. Our Give it 100 laptop drive with The Lady Fatemah Trust was designed to provide disadvantaged families with laptops and wifi and it is a key example of how we are expanding our services to understand the wider context of poverty.

Whilst we have discontinued all in-person activities such as our weekly community kitchen and our classes and workshops, we haven’t stopped working. We have been delivering hot meals and food parcels all over the borough of Brent. People have recognised the privilege of a full fridge and pantry and felt compelled to pay it forward. We are always in awe of the support that we receive every day and the creative ways that people have been raising money for our appeal.

What the Numbers Mean

As always, we maintain that food banks are not a solution to food poverty. Just because we exist, doesn’t mean those in charge are absolved of their responsibility to ensure that food is a human right. The statistics present a wider call to action. We felt it was important to compile this data in order to continue being a transparent and honest organisation, but we can’t do it alone. As a member of the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN), we have worked together to further our understanding of how the current climate is affecting our work and why we’re putting pressure on the government to support us. You can read the full report here.

Getting Involved

If you would like to continue supporting our work and help us meet the demands of the pandemic, please consider making a donation to our Coronavirus Appeal. Alternatively, can check out more ways to donate.  We have been selected by Global’s national Make Some Noise campaign to continue making a difference to people’s lives in the midst of the pandemic. Read more about our involvement here.
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Sudbury Town Station planning application rejected, Ujima House and North Brent School approved

June 10, 2020, 1:59 pm
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After a lengthy discussion Brent Planning Committee again rejected the TfL application for a development of 'pocket homes' on the car park at Sudbury Town Station. Despite a £600k offer by the developer towards the build costs of 6 three bedroomed homes outside the area, the committee stuck to their original objection on grounds of lack of family homes for the site itself,  the loss of the car park and its impact on acessiblity for people with protected characteristics; and the applications lack of compliance with Local and London plans. Three members of the public and two councillors made very persuasive presentations opposing the application.

Cllr Denselow abstained. Cllrs Hylton and Chappel voted for the application and the four other committee members against.

The Ujima House discussion was a real mish mash.  The owner of Lanmore House and Jaine Lunn occupant of a neighbouring house on Ecclestone Place, were represented and it emerged that a 'letter before claim' against the Council, who are the developer, had been issued. The committee were told by the Council legal officer that the Council had complied with all regulations and that appeared to be the end of that.

Inaccuracies in the officers' report were highlighted concerning the height of the building and the number of windows in adjoining buildings affected, and the committee were told that the architect had failed to get back to the Council about a query, but all this was deftly passed over.  The issue of a weight restriction of 15 tons on the entrance to Ecclestone Place was brushed aside with an assurance that if necessary lorries could access the site from Wembley High Road (traffic jams!)

The committee were told that this was just an outline application and detailed issues could be dealt with at a later date.

The application was approved.

The Executive Headteacher of the Wembley Multi-Academy Trust after initial zoom problems gave a confident presentation on its plans for a new school on Neasden Lane, currently called North Brent School, although it is on the south side of the North Circular.

However, after she had left the meeting some confusion arose over the catchment area of the school as it emerged that pupils would be travelling to the site from North Wembley as the school is currently housed on the Wembley High School site.  The new site would open at the end of 2021 so the children on the current site would have to travel down. One officer muttered something about issue of the school  catchment should have come up earlier and councillors seemed unsure if the new school when fully open would serve the local area or continue to be populated by pupils from the North Wembley area.   Clearly it would be better in terms of Green School Travel Plans if the catchment was local and the area does lack its own non-denominational school.

The new school will be 6 forms of entry so will generate a lot of trips and transport was the main issue discussed. An earlier plan to have 4 coaches travel down to the school from North Wembley had been opposed by TfL and was reduced to one, so pupils will have to travel by public transport either  on the tube, by bus or by cycle. The 297 route would be beefed up in consultation with TfL and the 245 was also mentioned but that only goes as far as Neasden shopping centre before turning off towards Staples Corner. One councillor raised concerns about children from different schools milling around at the Neasden interchange where there were already problems.

It appears that on one side of the borough we will have children travelling north from Harlesden and Stonebridge to Ark Elvin and on the other children travelling south from North Wembley to Neasden Lane!

The one decision made (apart from  approving the application) was to  call for 172 cycle parking places to be provided in the initial phase of the building. No one queried whether cycling to the school would be safe.

Recording of Committee HERE






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Platform launched to help Brent small businesses survive Covid19 lockdown

June 11, 2020, 3:26 am
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From  Help High Street

Announcing the launch of Help High Street -helphighstreet.co.uk which is a platform made by volunteers from the London Borough of Brent to support small businesses impacted by the coronavirus and help them survive the post lockdown world.

Local communities are worried about their favourite restaurants, cafes and beauty salons going out of business because of the pandemic. Although this is a serious threat to the high street we believe that by raising awareness about gift cards, crowdfunding or online stores. Businesses will be better prepared to survive the post lockdown world.

The local high street has struggled during the lockdown measures which has led to enforced closures for over two months; the consequences of which is painting a bleak economic picture for many small businesses.

In a recent survey of businesses, they shared the following most common ways they have been affected by the lockdown measures

  • 72% had seen decreased orders and sales
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  • 56% had lost business due to cancelled contracts or orders
  •  
  • 50% reported cash flow issues
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Source: Business West Chambers of Commerce

The businesses that are most affected are personal services such as beauty salons and hospitality.

  1. Personal services such as salons, spas, dry cleaners 100%
  2.  
  3. Hospitality 95%
  4.  
  5. Retail 73%
  6.  

Source: Business West Chambers of Commerce

Size is another factor that is affecting businesses, with smaller companies hit the hardest, especially if the company has fewer than 20 employees.

The loss of high street businesses can result in a ripple effect that can wipe out identity and culture, leaving local communities devastated.

“We will see empty premises, because not all businesses will make it through”. 
- Chief Executive of the British Property Federation, Melanie Leech.

British Independent Retailers Association have said that 20% of businesses may not reopen 'because it would be more expensive for them to run their shops if footfall is low.'

Act now to help the high street

If we don’t act now, our high streets will lose many shops forever to the coronavirus. Fortunately, one of the positive outcomes from the pandemic has been a renewed sense of community; especially seen in volunteers supporting the vulnerable to donations being raised to save under-threat music venues.

An increasing amount of small businesses are harnessing innovative technologies to help their businesses survive. Some businesses have raised thousands of pounds from gift card sales by engaging with their local communities who are keen to show their support.

This is where Help High Street wants to use its platform to make things easier for businesses with gift card programs to reach customers.

Businesses with existing gift card programs can use our platform to see if their business is listed and then claim the businesses for free. If it isn’t listed they can simply add their business and link to their gift card scheme. If businesses don’t have a gift card program, we have a tool kit which provides advice on how to set one up.

If you’re worried about the high street, we want you to bring that sense of community to helphighstreet.co.uk. You can find your favourite businesses and buy gift cards from them for use whenever you feel it’s safe to visit the high street again.This platform is a voluntary project and 100% of gift purchases go to small businesses.

Help High Street’s founder David Goodwin, a User Experience Consultant said ‘I was inspired to create this platform after reading a story in a local newspaper that said a pub made £25k from selling gift cards for customers to use later. I can’t believe that more businesses aren’t doing this and I want to raise awareness and make it easier for customers to support their favourite business in innovative ways’.

The platform also features art from Otto Schade, who is famous for his ribbon-style street murals which can be found in cities all around the world.

The significance of Schade’s art reflects the struggle to make it through the coronavirus lockdown, represented by the unravelling ribbons shown in his art.

With the current UK economy uncertainty and small business owners voicing their concerns, we don’t have to see our favourite restaurant close forever. We can help the high street by acting now and using technology to support them in innovative ways.

Social media: @helphighstreet
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