Work on Coral flats now underway

The Council has withdrawn its application for an Empty Dwelling Management Order (EDMO) in relation to the flats above Coral because works on-site are progressing well.  Had it not done this, the Council's application was likely to have been struck out by the Tribunal.

The Council has indicated that, should the works stall, it is prepared to resubmit the case for hearing - and any failure on Coomes part to progress these works to a satisfactory conclusion will strengthen the Council's hand against them in future.

There is no evidence yet of improvements to the exterior of the building, though these would be considered necessary if the flats are to be fully pigeon-proof and fit for human habitation.

Reports of apparent progress on this case are welcomed.  Any queries should be directed to Nick.Long@lewisham.gov.uk.

Robert Sheppard

Ladywell improvements - Streetworks now imminent



The Council has indicated that the streetscape work will be completed this Spring in five phases, starting at Algernon Road, then progressing into Ladywell Road east by the railway bridge then working west towards the mini-roundabout at the junction of Adelaide Avenue. The provisional schedule (which has yet to be signed-off with the contactor, London Buses and various underground service providers) is as follows - but may change during the course of the works:

1. Works at the Algernon Road (eastern) end of the scheme will start within the next week or so, probably on 11 or 18 February, with drainage works incl. the moving of gullies to new kerb alignment positions.

2. Footpath and kerbing works in Algernon Road will commence from 26 February. All property owners at 251-259 Algernon Road (incl. the Post Office and Barbers) have given permission for their forecourts to be repaved so the whole of this pavement from kerb to buildings will be one neat stretch of paving rather than the current hotch-potch. This is splendid news and will look great when completed!

3. On 1 March there will be road closure on Algernon Road to enable sewer works, and drainage works will continue to 8 March.

4. 8-26 March - lowering of Algernon Road carriageway and construction of speed tables at Gillian Street, Mercy Terrace and Algernon Road

5. 18 March - work on Ladywell Road will commence, with two way lights for the most part, but complete closure for periods of time if necessary.

For a reminder about the project see the item on the Council website.  Should you have any detailed questions/issues you can email les.senior@lewisham.gov.uk

Robert Sheppard

Hunt confirms Hospital downgrade

The Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt, confirmed to the Commons today that the A&E Department at Lewisham Hospital will be downgraded as part of cost-cutting measures within the South East London sector of the NHS.  Furthermore the maternity unit at Lewisham is to be replaced with a midwife-led facility.  You can find more on this at www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-21269910

Mr. Hunt only parted from the Special Administrator, Matthew Kershaw's recommendations in one respect, by deciding that up to threequarters of those currently attending Lewisham A&E would (he said) continue to attend a new, smaller service at the Hospital, with only patients with more serious conditions taken to other hospitals.  It remains to be seen, of course, what happens in practice!

Strictly successful!

Thank you so much to everyone for making the 2012 Strictly Christmas Market such a success.  The stallholders put on a great display and so many people gave their time and energy so freely.

There are far too many people to mention individually – but special thanks have to go to everyone who kept us entertained including all the choirs, and those from the Ladywell Youth Service who did the facepainting.

Thanks also to the children from the RAZ After-School Club who made baubles to  help decorate the Christmas tree.

Have a look at our photos from the event and we’ll see you again next year!

Time to collect your 'Strictly Christmas' Raffle Prize

Thanks to all our local businesses who donated prizes.



RAZ brings some Razzmatazz to Ladywell

Today children from Ladywell’s local RAZ After School Club helped to dress the Christmas tree when it arrived as part of Ladywell’s Christmas celebrations.

Local residents are also being asked to ‘bring a bauble’ and help finish decorating the tree between 11.00am and 12noon on Saturday 15 December before the tree lights are formally switched on at Ladywell’s Strictly Christmas market.  The Young Mayor of Lewisham, Jamel Higgins, is guest of honour and will turn on the lights at 2.00pm.

Rose Gayle, Manager of the RAZ After School Club, said: “We’re all really excited about the celebrations in Ladywell.  Christmas is a great time for children and we’re delighted to be able to take part in the preparations.”

9yr old Amoy Taylor who was helping with the decorating said “We’ve put some baubles on the tree but it needs some more. Everyone should make some because it’s fun and they’re shiny.”  10yr old Samantha Thompson said: “I’ve already made another one. I used glass paint and it’s gold and red. I’ve taken it home but I’m going to bring it back for the Christmas market.”

The tree has been donated by Glendale with lighting and installation costs funded through Ladywell Assembly and installed by Skanska.

The LVIG Events Team

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