HS2 Upcoming works at Canterbury Works site, South Kilburn. Information events February 26th

 HS2 not over yet...

Runaway climate breakdown: a new approach for a new reality? Meeting February 26th

 

Runaway climate breakdown: a new approach for a new reality? 26 February 2025, 7pm at St Lukes West Kilburn Introducing the Climate Majority Project: can we take control and build resilience in a time of runaway climate breakdown? Former Green Party councillor, Professor of Philosophy and co-founder of the Climate Majority Project Rupert Read discusses the project and its mission. Most of us now sense that we’re in deep trouble with climate. But it can often seem like we’re alone in these worries – and when we feel alone, we feel powerless. But once we realise that a majority feels the same way, then we know that we’re part of something very powerful. Then we can get to work.  Beginning in the UK, the Climate Majority Project works to encourage citizens at all levels of society to recognise their power and take meaningful, effective climate action wherever we can make the biggest difference. FREE or £5 donation to cover costs. Please register using the link.   We hope you’re able to join us!

REGISTRATION

Young Voices Bob Marley 80th Birthday Worldwide Singalong

 

 

In these dark day a message of hope from an international young choir celebrating a man of peace who spent some of his early days with us here in Brent.

 

 

Mural on the shutters of a hairdresser shop in Neasden, close to where Bob Marley and the Wailers lived in 1972. (Credit: Philip Grant)

Closure Order sought for Kilburn Job Centre building

 

 The Closure Notice fixed to the Job Centre building

 

An application for a closure order on the former Kilburn Centre at 3 Cambridge Order was being made at Willesden Magistrates Court this morning.

This follows the fire at the premises where alleged squatters had to be rescued by local people from the flames. LINK

 

 

What is a closure order/notice?

A police officer of at least the rank of Inspector (for 24 hours, Superintendent for 48 hours), or the local authority, may issue a closure notice if satisfied on reasonable grounds that the use of the particular premises has resulted or is likely soon to result in nuisance to members of the public, or that there has been or is likely soon to be disorder near those premises associated with the use of those premises, and that the notice is necessary to prevent the nuisance or disorder from continuing, recurring or occurring.

A closure notice prohibits access to the premises for a period specified in the notice and may prohibit access by all persons except those specified, at all times and in all circumstances (or those specified). A closure notice MUST be issued before a closure order can be sought.

How is an application made?

Whenever a closure notice is issued an application can be made to a magistrates’ court for a closure order. This can be done by the police or the local authority and must be heard by the magistrates’ court no later than 48 hours after service of the closure notice. A closure order can be for up to three months.

UPDATED WITH VOTE RESULT: This House Believes Trump is a 21st Century Fascist | Cambridge Union - Zack Polanski speaks for the motion

 

 Zack Polanski, Deputy Leader of the Green Party, speaks for the motion 'This House Believes Trump is a 21st Century Fascist'  at the Cambridge Union. 

RESULT OF VOTE:

Ayes - 219 

 

Abstain - 118 

 

Noes - 160

Nearby residents oppose 5 storey block of flats on Pellat Road, Wembley, green space

 

The green space on the roundabout at Pellat Road, Wembley

The up to 5 storeys block to be built on the green space
 

Brent Planning Officers recommend that Brent Planning Committee  on Wednesday approve the building of an up to 5 storeys block of flats on a small green space in Wembley. The green space may be under-used at present but has aesthetic value as well as potential for development as a pocket park.

On building on green space the officers' report says:

Development on Green Space

6. The application would result in the loss of existing green space located on Pellatt Road. The land does not have any specific planning designations, and notably it is not designated open space which would otherwise be protected against development under London Plan Policy G4.

7. Objectors have raised concerns regarding the loss of this green space. Whilst it is acknowledged that the site currently provides some limited visual amenity, the site as it exists is effectively a deep road verge, with an element of tree and shrub planting. Although 0.1 hectares in size and currently comprising of mostly open grassland, owing to its shape and location adjacent to a road it does not readily lend itself to being used as an area for sitting out or recreation. Indeed, a larger recreation ground is located directlyopposite the application site. This is due to a combination of attributes, including its irregular shape, proximity to the road, lack of equipment for play or dwelling such as benches, lack of significant landscaping features and it significant inactive permitted to its north. It is also adjacent to a much more considerable open space, the GEC sports facility, protected by policy G4. There are pitches which are available for hire in this location, as well as outdoor gym facilities which are readily available at no extra charge for all residents’.

8. Policy DMP1 seeks to retain existing green infrastructure including open space, high amenity trees and landscape features, and providing appropriate additional or enhancements where possible. Where the loss of open space is proposed, this would be required to be balanced against the benefits of the proposal.

9. While the loss of the green space is acknowledged, the scheme would deliver 13 homes including a policy compliant level of family sized homes (3 family sized homes) for which there is an identified need in Brent. This is considered, on balance, to outweigh the harm. Furthermore, the proposal would enhance the biodiversity of the application site as discussed in further detail below. On balance, the loss of this green space is outweighed by the benefits of the scheme as a whole, including the delivery of three family sized homes for which there is an identified need in the borough.

 One of the 12 objectors wrote on Brent Planning Portal: 

My address has been listed in the alleged letter which is dated 08 August 2024; however, it has not been delivered and after liaising with some neighbours, it appears they have also not received it. Many residents and the locals affected by this proposal are still currently unaware that the planning application for this particular site has been submitted; therefore, I strongly suggest that you postpone any decisions until a time where all locals have been notified and had a fair opportunity to share their comments and opinions.

Pellatt Road is used as an entry/exit point for the cul-de-sac residential area and all properties located on Chamberlayne Avenue, Edison Drive, Crown Green Mews and Walton Gardens would be affected by the works and the building that's being proposed. In order for a fair assessment of the planning application where residents and locals are able to raise their concerns fairly, it would be advisable for the council to notify all residents of these four roads by delivering letters to all properties located here before reaching a decision as I can assure you that many of us are completely against this.

As Pellatt Road is used by vehicles of all four roads to enter/exit the area, it is essential to keep the road clear from all obstructions caused by the works and the green spaces creates a welcoming atmosphere that feels open and airy. It is also used by the GEC Industrial Estate frequently and during events taking place at the sports ground. Parking is already very limited and with the creation of the building, it will cause access issues by the increase of parked vehicles along Pellatt Road whilst raising some health and safety concerns. The nearby parking spaced specified by the developer seems unrealistic and exaggerated. The big building will be made on a junction of a small roundabout and will create a blind spot for motorists exiting Walton Gardens as their view will be obstructed.

We are against the idea of this building on the grounds of over-development of a small cul-de-sac residential area which is already highly populated. For the space and the surrounding area, the building is not suitable as it's simply too large, wrong colour/materials, it will create dark shadows specially to residents of Walton Gardens due to the positioning of the sun and increase the amount of noise for an area which is fairly quiet, make the whole place around the building feel claustrophobic for existing residents, invade privacy of nearby residents and will just look out of character as its too big for the space and where the land is located. It may even potentially effect the value of a number of properties throughout the area.

All other residential properties here have been made from brick of a particular colour so it all blends in along with these green open spaces leading to the sports ground. The material/colour of the five-storey building will not blend in with the nearby buildings and would not be pleasing to look at. It will create dark shadows around the building, especially to residents of Walton Gardens and where their garages are located.

It is clear that when Chamberlayne Avenue/Edison Drive properties were constructed, the previous landowner (Barratts) had purposely left small areas of the green spaces/land along Pellatt Road as it would have over-developed the area making it appear crowded. Even when Crown Green Mews was constructed, a separate road was made to take it off Pellatt Road which surely must've been done with valid reasoning. Pellatt Road also has a particular curvature and a large building along this part would just not make sense or be suitable.

Green spaces and open land around the borough have been reducing at great speed and while I appreciate the need for new residential buildings, but this cannot be implemented in all small green areas available and some must be conserved.

Furthermore; there are four large trees and shrubs which have been growing since the creation of Chamberlayne Avenue/Edison Drive when access to Walton Gardens was merged with Pellatt Road. At the time when residents of Walton Gardens agreed to create a new vehicle entry point off the roundabout to Pellatt Road, there were no plans for obstructing the junction of either sides of the green spaces or an agreement would not have been made. Prior to this there was a brick wall running throughout the length of Walton Gardens to separate Pellatt Road with trees/bushes going across and it should be kept that way. The four large trees should not be affected during the build and personally these types of green spaces should be encouraged with the addition to more trees and plants/shrubs for the benefit of the area, along with your residents of the borough.

Overall; the development of this building will cause unnecessary pollution and disturb many residents during the long development phase which more than likely will get delayed. This again is not reasonable in a cul-de-sac residential area at a time where many people are still working from home/studying and it will create an unpleasant atmosphere.

I would suggest that numerous site visits are carried out by knowledgeable council officers on a number of different days and times so they can make a fair assessment of the land in question and see the times when it gets busy whist taking into consideration the way the other buildings nearby look, the size/colour of them, the way locals will be impacted for a long duration of time and even after its built, it will not be great to look at for where it will be located.

In simple words, the creation of this building has no special benefits or advantages for the local residents and are really no plus points.

I understand the land was recently purchased by the owners as a way of generating their profits as the larger the building, the more properties it will have for sale and more service/lease charges will be earned but this cannot apply to all green spaces unless there is a demand by the residents who already reside around this particular area. We have failed to see any demand or any interest for this type of development which is not aimed for the improvement of the location or the benefit of the community.

I do hope that the council considers the opinions of their residents that will be affected daily by this large building looking out of character, however, if a building is what's going to take over this priceless land, then I strongly suggest that the plans are re-evaluate with the view of making it smaller to make it suitable for the space and the people who will be residing around it. The building should not be larger than two or three storeys and be made from a similar brick used on the surrounding buildings and of the same colour, the four large trees should be unharmed and a part of the area should still stay as open space for all to enjoy rather than focusing on balconies/terrace gardens and maximising revenue which is of no use to existing residents.

 

Willesden Green Lloyds Bank replacement by Bingo Hall opposed by residents but supported by Brent Planning Officers - decision at Planning Committee on Wednesday February 12th

1 Walm Lane, Willesden Green

 Despite opposition from the Willesden Green Town Team, a local ward councillor and 124 residents Brent Planning Officers are recommending approval of a change of use of the Lloyds Bank building at 1 Walm Lane to a Bingo Hall:

 The proposed change of use to a bingo hall accords with the Council's adopted policies as it falls within a main town centre use. Minor external changes are proposed to the shopfront of the site, for which there are no impacts with regards to the character and appearance of the conservation area. Subject to conditions to limit opening hours to protect the neighbouring occupiers, the use will sufficiently protect neighbouring amenity. Furthermore, subject to transport related conditions, the use will provide the required servicing needs and cycle storage facilities for the users of the premises.

The 'limited hours' are 8am-11pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 11pm on Saturday Sunday, Bank Holidays and Public Holidays.

The applicants are warned that installation of adult gaming machines could result in a change of use requiring planning planning permission. 

Here are a selection of objections from the Brent Council Planning Portal I  could see no submissions supporting the application.

 

I object because there are already too many gambling shops. There is one across the road and a new one has opened opposite the existing Bingo Hall in Cricklewood. There are multiple deprivation issues already such as increased homelessness and people overtly taking drugs involving needles during the daytime in Willesden Green. It is becoming increasingly unsafe to walk around and a gambling shop serves to increase issues linked to deprivation. Furthermore this is a prime location next to Marsh and Parsons, near the Butchers and opposite the lovely independent shops on the parade. It is completely out of keeping.. The area will suffer suffer economic decline with a gambling hall and attempts to improve the area will be negatively impacted. This is such an irresponsible planning application I am staggered it is even being humoured. It is utterly depressing to witness the lack of consideration for the social and economic uplift of the area.

 

As a resident, I have seen first hand the levels of deprivation on our high street, made worse after the pandemic. The area has a number of properties that house vulnerable individuals suffering from addiction, mental health and other issues.

Willesden Green is also densely populated with large numbers of families and young children who commute along the high street to school, afterschool clubs and via the bus and underground stations. Not far from the proposed Bingo Hall, is Willesden Green Library another hub for residents, children and young adults.

This proposed site for a Bingo Hall is located only a few doors down from another six gambling and gaming shops.

A Bingo Hall gambling venue is not what Willesden Green high street needs. The area is crying out for other services and businesses, and this would do nothing to serve the community, it is not family-friendly, it will not attract investment or otherwise benefit the area. It would simply take advantage of already vulnerable people, to put money into the pockets of Star Commerical Property Ltd.

Please ensure that our high street doesn't turn into a casino filled dive that attracts more crime, antisocial behaviour and drives people further into poverty. Please reject this and any future applications by this and other gambling companies.

 

 

HOORAY AT LONG LAST!



WHAT WILLESDEN IS CRYING OUT FOR IS ANOTHER GAMBLING DEN OF MISERY FOR THE GOOD PEOPLE OF BRENT TO BE EXPLOITED BY.



AFTER ALL WHO NEEDS BANKS WHEN YOU CAN WALK 6 MINUTES FROM ONE LADBROKES TO ANOTHER AND PASS SIX DIFFERENT BOOKMAKERS, BINGO HALLS AND FIXED ODDS BETTING SHOPS ALONG THE WAY? THIS BY ANY MEASURE IS A CLUSTER.



THERE ARE SOUND PLANNING REASONS TO REJECT THIS APPLICATION, BASED ON BRENT'S DUTY TO PROTECT ITS RESIDENTS FROM CLUSTERS LIKE THIS AND FROM OVERSEAS TAX EVADING HEDGE FUND DODGERS WHO'LL SHUFFLE OUR CASH TO THE SEYCHELLES BEFORE YOU CAN UTTER THE WORDS "ISN'T IT ABOUT TIME BRENT COUNCIL GOT RID OF THE EMBARRASSMENT OF A LEADER AND GET SOMEBODY IN WHO IS RESPECTED BY RESIDENTS"



BRENT AND IT'S COUNCILLORS ARE OVERSEEING THE HOLLOWING OUT OF WILLESDEN SO I AM FULLY SUPPORTIVE OF THIS PLAN AS ANOTHER MEANS TO HIGHLIGHT THEIR ONGOING INEPTITUDE AND AMBIVALENCE TOWARDS RESIDENTS (AND VOTERS).

 

As one of the local ward Councillors, I am writing to object to this application. I do so on the following grounds:



1) High density of existing gambling establishments



The site is in close proximity to existing adult gaming centres and gambling establishments (Royal Casino Slots at 9 Walm Lane, and Merkur slots at 51 High Road). Both of these establishments are within less than a minute's walk from the site.



In addition, Labbrokes and Paddy Power betting shops are within a similar walking distance.



Policy BE5 calls for "no more than 1 unit or 10% of the neighbourhood parade frontage, whichever is the greater, consisting of betting shops, adult gaming centres or pawnbrokers/payday loan shops;". The committee should consider whether this has been met before considering approval.



2) Risk of crime and antisocial behaviour



Walm Lane and Willesden High Road currently show as one of the areas in Brent with the highest incidence of street crime and antisocial behaviour, and recent statistic collected by the Police Safer Neighbourhood Team indicate that this is escalating faster than elsewhere in the borough. In the recent past, particular issues such as street drinking have been clearly identified with local gambling establishments. In addition, the obscured windows of domination by bright signage which is typical to adult gaming centres would create an unwelcoming building on the street scene, lacking in transparency and creating a general feeling of economic deprivation which lends itself to further crime and ASB.



3) Signage and lights



I believe that bright signage and lights on the shop front would be disruptive to residents in the accommodation opposite.

We are writing to vehemently object to the proposed development of a "Bingo Hall" at 1 Walm Lane.

First, according to the Statement of Principles for Gambling 2025-2028 posted on Brent's website, Brent Council claims that its vision and priorities are, "Prosperity and Stability in Brent...Thriving Communities...[and] A Healthier Brent." The Council also claims it is committed to "working hard to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour."

The addition of yet another gambling centre on Walm Lane actively works against every single one of these published goals and commitments.

Beyond the fact that the addition of a bingo hall on this site violates Brent's visions and priorities - its promises to the community - we further object for the following reasons:

No Need for More Gambling: Prioritize Community Growth Instead: There are already at least four gambling establishments on Walm Lane. Adding yet another does not add to the prosperity of the community; there are already more than needed. This space could be used to bring in a business that would add to the economic and social growth of the community, as opposed to detracting from it. By allowing another gambling hall to open, Walm Lane risks losing its potential for sustainable, long-term growth, as the area becomes less attractive to the kinds of businesses and residents that contribute to a "prosperous, stable" community.

Negative Impact of Gambling on Local Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour:
Current research clearly shows that neighbourhoods with a higher concentration of betting shops and bingo halls tend to experience higher crime rates. Over the past two years, our neighbourhood has already seen a rise in anti-social behaviour, to the point where it feels unsafe to walk to and from the tube station outside daylight hours. If Brent Council is genuinely committed to reducing crime and promoting community safety, it should prevent the addition of another gaming establishment and instead encourage businesses that would have a positive impact on the area.

Preservation of Neighbourhood Character:

Adding another gambling site diminishes the community's character and neighbourhood feel, making it less inviting and safe.

Consideration of Local Population (including children):

Willesden Green is home to a growing number of families with children, and there is a school around the corner from the proposed bingo hall, as well as a community library just a block away. The Gambling Licensing Policy Consultation 2025-2028 states that gaming establishments should avoid areas where children are present, like schools, and highlights the need to protect vulnerable populations from harm. Adding another gambling centre to Walm Lane would undermine these goals. If Brent Council truly wants its communities to thrive, it would support using this space in ways that benefit families and align with the area's changing demographics. There are far more positive and productive uses for this location.
In addition, gambling establishments are linked to rising public health concerns, including gambling addiction, which can strain local support services and create long-term challenges for the community. These risks extend to vulnerable populations, including families, youth, and those facing financial hardship."

Impact on Local Economy and Businesses:

The addition of this gambling hall would have a negative ripple effect on local businesses and restaurants. Unlike businesses that encourage community engagement and attract a wide range of customers, gambling halls tend to draw a limited, repeat clientele who do not spend their money in other local businesses. Also, areas with multiple gambling establishments often see an uptick in vacant storefronts, as increased crime rates and anti-social behaviour stop new business owners from investing in the area. Over time, this shift makes the area feel less family-friendly and appealing, impacting property values and the overall economic health of the neighbourhood. Brent would be better served occupying the space with a store or service the community wants and needs.

Objecting to this proposal is in alignment with the abovementioned goals of Brent Council, and we hope the Council seriously considers this objection.

 

Subject: Objection to the Proposed Conversion of Lloyds Bank, 1 Walm Lane, NW2, to a Bingo Hall


I am writing to formally object to the proposed plan submitted by Star Commercial Property Limited to convert the former Lloyds Bank building at 1 Walm Lane, NW2, into a bingo hall. This proposal raises significant concerns for the community and does not align with the area's essential needs and character. Below are key reasons for my objection:

1. Loss of Essential Banking Services

With the recent closures of Lloyds and NatWest branches in Willesden Green and the impending closure of Barclays, the local community will be left entirely without a banking institution. For many residents-particularly seniors, those with limited internet access, and small business owners-access to in-person banking services is vital. The conversion of the last remaining bank building into a bingo hall does not serve these residents' needs, who will now have to travel farther for essential financial services, potentially leading to financial exclusion.

2. Mismatch with Community Needs and Character

Willesden Green is a vibrant area that would greatly benefit from developments that meet practical and daily needs, such as community spaces, affordable retail, or wellness services. A bingo hall does not serve the local demographic as effectively as a mixed-use community facility or a more versatile commercial space. Given its central location, this building has the potential to offer services that foster community engagement and improve the quality of life for local residents, aligning with the area's long-standing character.

3. Potential for Increased Noise and Traffic Disruption

A bingo hall is likely to generate increased noise and foot traffic, especially during evening hours. This could disrupt the residential nature of nearby areas and lead to parking and congestion issues. By contrast, a community center or similar facility would likely result in less disturbance and would better support the area's long-term social fabric and residential appeal.

4. Limited Economic and Social Value to the Community

The proposed bingo hall may not offer substantial economic or social benefits compared to alternative uses. Many residents would likely prefer a development that offers better employment opportunities, educational or training services, or local business spaces, which could add greater long-term value to Willesden Green. Additionally, the presence of a bingo hall may not attract diverse foot traffic, which local businesses need to thrive.

5. Negative Impact on Nearby Businesses

The conversion could impact the character and perception of the area, potentially deterring higher-quality investments that would better align with Willesden Green's evolving needs. Establishing a bingo hall as a focal business risks changing the area's reputation, which may dissuade other valuable businesses from opening or remaining nearby, resulting in an overall decline in the area's economic appeal.

6. Alternative Community-Driven Uses

Given the bank's historical and architectural value, repurposing the building to serve as a community or multi-functional space (e.g., a community hub or co-working space) could honor its heritage while better serving the community's needs. A space dedicated to various local activities could provide a vital resource for residents of all ages and could be a meaningful way to sustain the building's legacy and utility.



In summary, the proposal to convert this essential bank building into a bingo hall does not align with the long-term needs and values of Willesden Green residents. I strongly urge the Brent Planning Authority to consider alternative proposals that would provide essential services, maintain the area's character, and support the community's overall well-being.

 

 

 

LETTER: Brent Licensing Committee proceedings on K-Pop application unbelievable and infuriating

 

The walk from Harrow-on-the-Hill to the festival site

 

Dear Editor,

 

We residents would wager the organisers of the Made in Korea (K-Pop) event are angry with Brent Council and may now be getting cold feet as more and more issues come to light and the risk of cancellation due to bad weather, specifically rain, is becoming clearer.  Why do we have this opinion?

 

They didn't know (the council didn’t tell them) about the people living within feet of the concert compound until they were told two days before the consultation ended. It is believed that a parks representative has recently spoken to the bungalow residents and told them they will have to live with it! They attended the Licensing Hearing but were so upset by the proceeding that they walked out in fury over the poor questioning by the committee members from the south of the Borough, one councillor said she knew the park well having played rounders there – and how long ago was that then, perhaps 1990’s?

 

They didn't know that the ‘great’ Public Transport Hubs they had been told about by the council were totally unsuitable for such large numbers.  They will now have to use Harrow on the Hill as the principal transportation hub, which just happens to be some 2.5 kilometres away, that’s about a 30-minute walk without hold ups, holdups such as crossing two major roads! Even utilising this station, the 15-20,000 attendees will have to crocodile through the 3mtr wide under pass to cross the A404 Watford Road, which carries circa 35,000 vehicles a day. The organisers said they are having to revisit the event timings to take account of the time it will take to get 15,000 people to Harrow in time to cover onward travel connections. Even Saturday is not particularly well serviced after 11pm.

 

The committee unbelievably hadn’t been informed by the council, and the ward councillor didn’t know (if his objection at the Licensing Committee was to be believed); that the playing fields have been waterlogged during periods of high precipitation, going back decades. At its worst, the edge of the Capital Ring Footpath is under at least six inches of water with no way round even using the playing fields as they are also flooded.  The ward councillor inexplicably said that the footpath only started flooding a year ago, and was reported, well this is Brent isn’t it. Residents tell us that they have complained to the councillor and the council since 2022 with no action so far being taken. Users of the path can all tell you that the watercourse along the path should be draining the fields, however, due to neglect the watercourse no longer serves its essential purpose. It also should be noted that some of the recent planning consents at the hospital and the new 700 flats will all be utilising the watercourse for their drainage, which will only make matters worse unless essential improvements are made to the watercourse. But don’t worry, Brent is investigating apparently.

 

The organisers have been led to believe that no sporting users would be disrupted by the concert; they've now found out that Gaelic Football and one Cricket Ground will be inaccessible for three weeks from mid-May due to the positioning of the concert area. Also, during the events, all the fields will be out of use due to the setting up of entry and exit paths. Of course, there will then be many weeks after the concert area has gone, while ground renovation takes place and recovers; this recovery period will no doubt end Gaelic Football on Northwick Park Playing Fields, a clear discrimination of our fellow residents who play Gaelic Football for Parnells but have not been acknowledged by the Council. The council didn’t even think to inform the playing field users.

 

We could hazard a bet that the organisers are furious with Brent Council at all levels for not informing, nay, not knowing about these issues. 

 

Apparently, the council told the organisers to use Northwick Park and not Fryent Park as Northwick is flat and had good public transport links (what a joke that is now) and has unrestricted parking in the area; this was probably well over a year ago.  Oh, how Brent Council and its councillors disrespect the residents of their borough. Regarding parking, the organisers suggested at the Licensing Committee that there should be Residents Parking in the area for the events so that they can have access and get blue lights and coaches in and out!

 

It appears that the local councillor knew of these events long before eventually informing a small number of residents about the Licensing Application via a Whatsapp link, and we are informed that the councillor refused to share the response to the application. The Preston Councillors were not informed according to rumours and found out through their residents’ association or the Nextdoor App.

 

Neither Northwick Park Hospital, nor Sovereign Network Group (the housing supplier) have been advised about the events by the Council, they were not required to be notified under Licensing Law, so that’s OK, isn’t it?

 

The organisers said there was now a liaison group including the hospital, however, that has not begun yet and was suggested by either the London Fire Brigade or London Ambulance Service, which is more likely.

 

The University of Westminster have obviously been in communication with the organisers as they were to have the second weekend for their ‘local social events’, however, the organisers have now abandoned the second event weekend. Will the university now be such a strong supporter, and do they really want 15-20,000 people trapesing through there site on their way to Harrow on the Hill station just at pub throw out time at a weekend?

 

The Football Foundation have funded Brent’s football pitches by over £2m since 2000. Their 2024 Plan for Brent recommends that their future football development priorities for Brent include Improving grass pitches. It goes on to say that there are seven grass football pitches in Northwick Park, and it is one of their priority areas for improvement. This includes the refurbishment of the pavilion changing rooms which are currently closed due to a water borne virus. The football pitches are listed as needing refurbishment due to the lack of maintenance by the Council. This was acknowledged in a Brent report dating back to 2016, only three years after a drainage scheme was put in place funded by the Lottery, FA, and the Football Foundation.

 

What a very sad borough Brent has become.

 

A Northwick Park resident