| Rochester Row
Bins blocking access to drop kerbs for mobility scooter users and pram users, has been an issue for me and for others travelling along Rochester Row at the junction with Vane Street. I raised this with the Neighbourhood Team and they were able to get the bins permanently relocated almost immediately.
Blue Cross Summer Fayre and Dog Show
I had a really enjoyable time at the Blue Cross Summer Fayre and Dog Show on the 8th June. I met the StreetVet, Blue Cross representatives, Westminster Connects volunteers and other services; also some lovely dogs and their owners. Animal Welfare were able to sort out free access to veterinary services for a resident who was outside of the catchment area.
Hopkinson House
Hopkinson House on Vauxhall Bridge Road has been housing rough sleepers with complex needs. As of June 30th 2024, Hopkinson House has now closed and residents have been moved elsewhere. As the building is currently vacant, there is 24hour security in place to ensure there is no unlawful entry and external patrols are taking place to address any noise or other issues that may arise.
Regency Street
I have raised concerns about taxi cabs blocking or parking on drop kerbs, making it difficult for users of mobility scooters or wheelchairs to cross the road. Officers will continue to monitor the situation on Regency Street near the junction with Horseferry Road and take action where they can.
Grosvenor & Regency Estate Outdoor Gym
Work is underway on the installation of an outdoor gym between Tothill and Schomberg Houses on the Grosvenor & Regency Estate. Residents were consulted last year regarding the options to replace the redundant play equipment behind the shop unit on Page Street.
the scheme was tendered and awarded to The Great Outdoor Gym Company, who have completed a number of similar projects in locations around Westminster.
College Park School
I make no apologies for reverting instantly back to childhood at the sight of Mr. Bubbles, at the official launch of the Short Breaks School Holiday Service. It is located at College Park School, Bessborough Place, SW1V 3SE and is an opportunity for children up to 18 living with disabilities, to have a fun break from their carers.
Dog Mess
Westminster Council are actively dealing with the problem of dog mess in Vincent Square ward and elsewhere by increasing signage and taking action against offenders. It is not acceptable to bag dog mess and then leave it on the pavement; it must be disposed of in your general rubbish.
This is not acceptable and offenders will be fined or prosecuted.
Windrush Cultural Celebration
It was a real pleasure to join in the 76th anniversary Westminster Windrush Cultural event at Paddington Arts Centre.
It felt very authentic- right down to dancing to Jim Reeves’ ‘I Love You Because’. I doubt if there was a Windrush generation family without that record.
African Caribbean Family Fun Day
I worked with council officers in the Communities Team to produce the wonderful African Caribbean Family Funday in February. Held at the Holy Apostles church it featured African drummers, a musical performance, a head wrapping workshop, oral story telling, dominoes, hair braiding, henna, face painting, Caribbean food and a variety of craft stalls.
Age UK Westminster’s Volunteer Awards Ceremony 2024
It was a pleasure to attend this wonderful event, hosted by an Alderman representative in the Lord Mayor’s Parlour and to hear about the great work carried out by the volunteers. It was very well attended and many well deserved awards were handed out.
Easter Egg Hunt
An easter egg hunt was organised by Millbank Association Tea Events and Socialising (MATES) at the Victoria Tower Gardens.
Ramadan
I attended a number of Iftars and Eid events in the month of Ramadan, in particular the Grosvenor Hall hosted a women’s only Eid event which was very well attended. In addition, Grosvenor Hall has been hosting a weekly Community Hub/Peer Support Café with different speakers on health matters and wellbeing.
Community Hub and Wellbeing Centre
The Community Hub and Wellbeing Group will continue from 11.00 – 2.00 each Thursday at Grosvenor Hall, Vincent Street. There is a different speaker each week focussing on a particular area of health and wellbeing, as well as food and relaxation.
Abbey Centre
On most Wednesday evenings I attend the Hot Meals service for the homeless at the Abbey Centre, providing an advice and information surgery. There are a whole host of events occurring throughout the week at the centre, catering for the whole community. These include an after school club, sewing, yoga, tai chi, ESOL classes, legal advice, employment support and business start up advice, IT lessons and somuch more. Have a look and see what might interest you: https://www.theabbeycentre.org.uk/our-activities/
Labour Stall
It was great to speak with residents recently at my stall in Vincent Street. Issues relating to sheltered accommodation, anti social behaviour and drug dealing were raised. |
