LEAVING IT LATE The Christmas countdown is almost over but your search for the perfect gift is still on; don’t worry, the City has you covered Page 11
Christmas 2016
WINTER WARMERS We showcase the best winter terraces from which to soak up the festive atmosphere; spectacular views included Page 15
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Banking on a safer commute to work GREEN LIGHT GIVEN TO 18-MONTH EXPERIMENT AT BANK JUNCTION THE Corporation could run up a bill in excess of £1.1million after the authority voted overwhelmingly in favour of banning all vehicles except buses from Bank Junction during peak times. The experimental new measures – designed to address safety concerns at one of the City’s accident hotspots – were agreed by the policy and resources committee by a vote of 22 to one. A report shows that Bank Junction was the scene of 111 accidents from 2011 to 2015, with 84 (75%) occurring between 7am and 7pm.
serene scene: more moments such as this can be expected at Bank Junction from April 2017
Princess Royal in a class of her own as academy students are recognised PAGE 5
Uninhibited It is between these times from Monday to Friday that the Corporation has decided to bring in restrictions. Cyclists will still be permitted to travel through the junction uninhibited. A total of £373,000 has already been spent on the project, which will come into full effect in April next year. Estimates show that the scheme – scheduled to be in place for an 18-month trial period – could result in a 50% to 60% reduction in casualties per year. “Our number one priority for this work is to improve safety and reduce casualties,” explained planning and transportation committee chairman Chris Hayward. “At the moment, Bank is too clogged full of traffic, confusing for road users and not really a place that people can enjoy, when it really should be, as one of London’s most iconic places. “Proposing to restrict motor traffic during the
Merry Christmas! We’ll see you again in 2017 weekdays at Bank is a decision we have therefore taken after careful consideration and in close discussion with the local community, businesses and residents. “We will run a formal public consultation next year and a final decision on whether it is to be permanent will be made when we assess the success of this scheme.” Restrictions will be enforced via automatic number plate recognition cameras with a penalty
charge notice issued to drivers who contravene the experimental traffic order. Fines are reported to be set at £130. “New taxi ranks and an extension of existing ranks will also be provided,” added Mr Hayward, who explained that the authority has been engaging with trade representatives on the changes. Transport for London is said to have played a key role in the proposals to ensure surrounding roads are not adversely impacted by the remodel.
EVERYONE here at City Matters headquarters would like to wish our loyal readers and advertising partners a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. This is our final edition of 2016, but never fear as we will be back with our first issue of 2017 on 11 January. In the meantime, keep up to date on matters concerning the City at citymatters.london and we’ll see you again soon!
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Page 2 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
News Matters On this week down the years
new finances: Sadiq Khan has pledged £72m in funding
25 December 1952: Listeners from Britain and the Commonwealth hear The Queen’s first Christmas broadcast since her accession to the throne. 20 December 1979: More than five million council house tenants in Britain are to be given the right to buy their home. 21 December 1988: A Pan Am jumbo jet with 258 passengers on board crashes on to the town of Lockerbie in Scotland.
Paying penalty for selling illegal TV top boxes A MAN from SE14 has been fined for selling illegal TV set top boxes online. Jhon Rosero, 40, was ordered to pay £516 at City of London Magistrates’ Court following an investigation by City Police’s intellectual property crime unit. Rosero pleaded guilty under the Serious Crime Act 2007; namely encouraging or assisting in the commission of an offence contrary to Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006, dishonestly obtaining services from Sky without its authority.
Undermines
debut Christmas broadcast: The Queen
Corrections & clarifications The editorial team at City Matters strives to ensure all information printed is true and correct at the time of publication. If you notice a story has been printed with an error or omission, please contact us through the website and we will be happy to amend as appropriate. Alternatively, to speak to a member of the news team, please contact us on the number below.
£72m police package CITY of London Police will pocket a share of £72million over the next four years after funds were earmarked to help prevent crime across the Capital. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said that “maintaining recent levels of investment despite significant pressures on the policing budget” were at the forefront of his thinking when he pledged the latest round of finance. “Keeping Londoners safe is my first priority, and providing boroughs with the funds they need to tackle and prevent crime is a vital part of this,” said Mr Khan. The Mayor explained that the new investment will help to deliver local services, such as support for victims of domestic and sexual violence, knife crime prevention, and rehabilitation of offenders within the community in all 32 London boroughs. The
New technology at new year bash NEW year’s eve revellers will be able to soak up the atmosphere of London’s epic fireworks display from the comfort of their own home in even greater detail thanks to the BBC. Broadcasters will, for the first time ever, be giving viewers around the world a 360-degree, online panoramic view of the spectacular annual show. All 110,000 tickets for the event have sold out but millions are expected to tune in to watch the display live on TV or via the web. BBC chief technology and product officer, Matthew Postgate, said: “This year we’ve been bringing audiences new innovations for the Olympics and Euro 2016. “We’re thrilled to end the year with a special 360-degree experience of London’s spectacular fireworks online – as well as full coverage on BBC One. “So from Belfast to Birmingham, from Swansea to Stirling – viewers can experience the magic of London’s fireworks closer than ever before.”
new tranche of the London Crime Prevention Fund (LCPF) will be awarded according to the greatest need across the boroughs, with a new emphasis on ensuring every resident has the access to the services they need to help support them and keep them safe.
Targeting “A more joined up approach, and targeting money where it is most needed, will help us to support those parts of the Capital which are struggling and provide much needed services to all Londoners, including programmes to tackle serious youth violence and provide support to those who have suffered domestic abuse,” said Mr Khan. “These are critical issues and I will do everything in my power to confront them.” A portion of the funds will be redirected into
a joint pot to support services commissioned across multiple boroughs. Local authorities will be core partners in the development of the new funding pot, which will account for 30% of the LCPF budget from 2018/19 onwards. The deputy mayor for policing and crime, Sophie Linden, said that the approach strikes a balance between maintaining crucial local programmes while supporting collaborative work between different areas and organisations. She added: “Some of the most serious and complex challenges we face in policing our Capital cannot be solved by one borough alone. “By working this way, we can deliver innovative services to Londoners in every corner of the Capital and really make a difference to crime levels in our city.”
This followed his earlier arrest on 23 February of this year. Detective Sergeant Gary Brown of the force’s intellectual property crime unit, said: “Intellectual property crime undermines the creative industries that millions depend on for jobs. “The internet, including auction sites, are monitored for users selling illegal products and content, and we will investigate cases of this kind to ensure law abiding customers don’t foot the bill of others.”
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Glowing praise for Finlay’s creation A LUMINOUS piece of artwork by Ian Hamilton Finlay has been installed at St Paul’s for the Advent and Christmastide. L’étoile dans son étable de lumière – The star in its stable of light – is on display opposite the crib at the west end of the cathedral until 2 February. The work and the words, in neon (right), were original composed by the Scottish poet and artist to mark Christmas 1976. It was originally conceived as a Christmas card but turned into an art object, the words becoming physical, composed as if in the artist’s own hand. Finlay developed a variety of creative
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forms to celebrate the sustaining power of words in this way. The text plays with images which have become associated with The Nativity: the stable, the humble place where animals were kept, in which the Holy Family found shelter and Jesus was born; and the star, which guided the magi, or wise men, to the manger in which the infant Jesus was placed. “These traditional elements of the Nativity are reworked, through clever arrangement, to summon a new image, the meaning of which is both
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festive and elusive, and evokes the arrival of a new light in the world,” said a St Paul’s spokesman. It was turned on last week and is sponsored by the Victoria Miro Gallery. Chancellor of the cathedral, Canon Mark Oakley, said: “Like the star’s bright light that shone over the Bethlehem stable, so we look up from the crib in the cathedral to see this message of hope. “It is good to have a work by Ian Hamilton Finlay in St Paul’s for this short but important period of time.”
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Serial offender gets eight weeks A BIKE thief who opportunistically struck while a paramedic was treating a patient will spend eight weeks behind bars. Patrick McFetridge nicked the cycle – valued at £1,200 – as it was left unsecured outside an office block in Aldgate on 23 June. McFetridge, who has 26 previous convictions, was sentenced at City of London Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday last week.
Council tax may rise by 6% in next two years THE Corporation has been cleared to increase council tax by as much as 6% by communities secretary Sajid Javid. Along with every other local authority in England, the City of London has been given permission to make the increase over the next two years to help fund provisions for the elderly and disabled. Originally, the plan had been to implement hikes over the next three years, but proposals have been accelerated. Charities have welcomed the move but say it will not be enough to cover an estimated shortfall of £2.6billion by 2020.
Christmas 2016 | Page 3
Special measures roll out at market SPECIAL parking and travel arrangements are now in place at Smithfield Market for the Christmas period. The result is a combination of temporary road closures, vehicle restrictions, parking bay suspensions, and changes in directional flow of traffic. The measures will be active between 10pm and 8am until Friday 23 December when vehicle access to the market will be restricted to customers and business owners only. Matthew Hill, superintendent of Smithfield, said: “Over the past few years the market has become increasingly popular and busier on key dates leading up to Christmas.
Gridlock “This has created significant congestion and traffic gridlock. We therefore worked with the City of London Police and the Smithfield Market Tenants’ Association to put in place temporary traffic restrictions, making it easier for deliveries, traders and customers visiting the market.” All parking bays in the vicinity of the market will be suspended in order to maintain traffic flow. However, free parking has been made available at Smithfield car park every day from 9pm to noon the following day up until 23 December.
City worker died on stag party
Seven-figure sum to address safety
A RISK manager in the City died during a prank on a stag party river cruise in Portugal, an inquest has heard. Best man Nishanthan Gnanathas, 31, is reported to have hit his head on the side of the boat after being thrown into the water in July. He vanished and it is believed his body may have shut down in the cold water. A verdict of misadventure was recorded at Westminster Coroner’s Court.
THE City is to receive a £1million financial package under a new plan to deliver transport, town centre and public space improvements across the Capital. Transport for London (TfL) will invest £148million in Local Implementation Plans that support Sadiq Khan’s Transport Strategy, as well as a further £70m for other schemes, including funding for strategic walking and cycling programmes. Of the City’s seven-figure sum, £380,000 has been allocated to improve safety around areas and junctions prone to accidents, such as Puddle Dock, the junction of New Change with Cannon Street, the area of West Smithfield, and the junction of Holborn Viaduct with Snow Hill. Councillor Julian Bell, chair of London Councils transport and environment committee, said: “London’s boroughs welcome this longterm settlement by the Mayor of London, which will assist in making borough streets greener and safer. “It provides a much needed base from which to work with the Mayor and TfL to deliver the improvements to London’s local transport scene as part of a city for all Londoners.”
Fake cleaner to serve four years A MAN who posed as an office cleaner to steal IT equipment worth £17,000 has been jailed for four years. In order to avoid arousing suspicion, Neville Gray, of Percy Circus WC1, would present himself as a member of staff, allowing him access to a number of Square Mile buildings. The 35-year-old was sentenced at the Old Bailey for 17 counts of burglary, one count of burglary with violence, and one count of burglary with intent to steal. He was handed a four-year sentence for each offence, all to
be served concurrently. Detective Constable Hannah Sydney, who led the investigation and linked Gray to the multiple offences, said: “Gray is a prolific burglar and was able to trick his way into office buildings. “He was not afraid of talking to staff, quite the opposite, he acted as if he were employed in the building. Gray seized upon any opportunity to gain access to office premises. “A door closing behind someone leaving the building or employees going into work, these were all chances for Gray to exploit. “I thank the members of staff who confronted Gray and questioned his story. Remember, challenge unknown people at work – if someone is attempting to gain access to your place of business and you are not sure who they are then ask to see identification.”
temporary arrangements: in place at Smithfield
News Matters Washing away cannons ‘legacy’ THREE water cannons which have “languished in storage for two years” have been put up for sale by the Mayor of London. An estimated £21,000 is being spent on maintaining the machines each year, despite the fact that they cannot legally be used in the UK. So far, the total bill for the cannons has exceeded £320,000.
Communities Sadiq Khan is keen to get the machines off the budget after they were commissioned by former Mayor Boris Johnson. “By working with communities and returning to real neighbourhood policing, we can do far more for the safety of our city rather than relying on obsolete and illegal water cannon,” said Mr Khan. “They do not belong on the streets of London, and by selling them we’re able to put money back into helping young people affected by gang crime and keeping Londoners safe.”
Page 4 | Christmas 2016
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Weak pound favours expats LONDON has tumbled down the list of most expensive cities to live in for expatriates. The latest Cost of Living Survey by ECA International said Brexit’s weakening of the pound has made the Capital a much more inviting place to put down roots. In the 2015 study, central London was ranked in the top 50 most costly places to live (46th), but has now dropped to 103rd. “This is the first time central London has not featured in the top 100 since the Cost of Living rankings began,” explained ECA’s production manager Steven Kilfedder. “The weakened pound means that UK businesses are paying more when sending staff to work overseas, although it is cheaper to bring staff to the UK. “London is now cheaper than Paris, Berlin and Brussels thanks to the weak pound.” At the other end of the spectrum, Tokyo is the most expensive destination for expats.
Christmas 2016 | Page 5
Will famous bells keep ringing out? THE bells may have tolled for Britain’s oldest manufacturing company. Whitechapel Bell Foundry first opened during the reign of Elizabeth I in 1570 but is closing its present premises in east London – where it has operated since 1738 – after owner Alan Hughes made the decision to sell up and retire. Some of the globe’s most famous chimes were forged at the foundry, with London’s Big Ben, the 1752 Philadelphia Liberty Bell, the bells of the Armenian church in Chennai, south India, and the Bell of Hope that commemorates victims of the 9/11 terror attacks in New York among its most noted and distinguished exports.
Landmarks The foundry also cast the bells for Christopher Wren’s iconic St Paul’s Cathedral and numerous other landmarks across the country, including Westminster Abbey. “We have made this decision with a heavy heart, but in response to the changing realities of running a business of this kind,” explained Mr Hughes in a statement to community website Spitalfields Life. “The Bell Foundry in Whitechapel has changed hands many times, but it has always been a family business. “My own family has owned the foundry
Reach for the sky LONDON Mayor Sadiq Khan has given the green light to the building of two new skyscrapers in the heart of the Square Mile. Major developments at 22 Bishopsgate and 1 Undershaft were approved by the
THE pre-Christmas strike action by Southern Railway has been slammed by leading members of the City’s business community. Industrial action is estimated to be costing the economy £45million per day during the walkouts, with more than 300,000 passengers affected by the disruption.
Damaging
up for sale: Photos by Evo Flash photography
since 1904, but other families have run the firm through its history, which stretches back to 1570. “The business has been at its present site over 250 years. So it is probably about time it moved once again. We hope that this move will provide an opportunity for the business to move forward in a new direction.” Mr Hughes has set a May 2017 target to find a buyer for the business, and confirmed a deal to sell the Grade II-listed building where Whitechapel Bell Foundry currently resides has already been struck. Mr Hughes
Princess a real class act PRINCESS Anne gave staff and students at the City of London Academy Islington the royal seal of approval earlier this month, presenting the school’s annual achievement awards. The Princess Royal visited the school on 8 December, handing out awards to top performing staff and students from the 2015/16 cohort in recognition of their achievements throughout the academic year. The royal visit caps a stellar 2016 for the academy, which celebrated its “best ever” GCSE results earlier this year. More than 90% of students achieved A*-C in English and 68% picked up 5A*-C passes, including English and mathematics. The Saddlers’ Student Achievement Award,
News Matters Southern strike slated by LCCI
sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, was given to 17-year-old Tanjeeb Ahmed for making outstanding progress under challenging circumstances. Meanwhile, the Saddlers’ Staff Award was won by Pauline Cox following an unprecedented contribution to the academy. Proud Clare Verga, principal at the academy, said it was an “honour” to welcome the Princess Royal, who also holds the title of Master of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers.
Benefits “We are exceptionally grateful to Saddlers for their dedication and commitment to the academy, its staff and students. “It is a partnership that has gone from strength to strength in recent years and the academy benefits significantly from the company’s active involvement and support.” Henry Colthurst, chair of governors at the school, added: “The visit of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has capped off a wonderful year for the school and its staff, led by Clare Verga, and students – all of whom have worked so hard to achieve success. “We are proud to be working in partnership with The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, a combination which is rewarding for both the livery company and the school.” Corporation earlier this year but have only recently been approved by City Hall. Mr Khan said: “These two projects represent a significant investment in the heart of London’s economy and are a clear sign that the Capital is open for business. “They will be highly visible signs of London’s enduring appeal as a place to invest.”
cited rising costs as the reason for deciding to put the Whitechapel Road premises on the market. He said he recently had to spend £20,000 to repair a leak in the roof. In an additional statement, the foundry confirmed it would be honouring any existing contracts. It added: “[The company] will not be entering into new contracts for the time being whilst discussions with the company’s staff and other parties regarding the future direction, ownership and location of the company are ongoing.”
Chief executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Colin Stanbridge said: “These strikes are highly damaging to the economy, with staff being delayed or not even able to get into work at all. “And at this time of year there is undoubtedly an effect on retailers and the night time economy as people may be reluctant to travel into central London. “We would urge all parties involved to sit down and try and come to some resolution. Commuters have suffered enough.”
Page 6 | Christmas 2016
Business Matters
Solid first steps in pay gap overhaul THE government’s focus on the gender pay gap should be welcomed, Mercer has said. However, the human resources consulting firm say that while new requirements bring some much needed clarity, the measures proposed are blunt and organisations should be prepared to explain why they have a pay gap and how they plan to close it. The regulations require UK organisations with more than 250 employees to report on their gender pay gap. The gap is calculated simply by taking all employees and comparing what women earn compared to men. However, Mercer say that this is often confused with equal pay. Equal pay legislation, in contrast, compares the pay of men and women at the same level in the organisation and equal pay rules outlaw significant differences in men and women’s remuneration for same or similar work. An organisation having a poor gender pay gap does not imply an unfair treatment of women in terms of pay, but it does likely point to issues of low female career progression or less women in higher paid specialist roles. “We welcome the government’s focus on the issue and it is clear that it is getting the attention of businesses,” said Chris Charman, reward expert at Mercer. “Organisations must now report using quite a blunt series of statistics that in themselves do not give the employer any insight, and so they should focus hard on understanding what is driving their gender pay gap. “Employers will need to demonstrate for themselves that they are paying fairly and that the gap is not down to unequal pay. “The first step must be to ensure pay and bonus programmes do not discriminate and then look into the deeper causes of any gaps.”
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Khan is winning over City firms BUSINESSES ENCOURAGED BY LONDON MAYOR JUST over six months into the job and the Mayor of London appears to be winning round businesses, according to a new report for London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). The poll of more than 500 firms, conducted by ComRes on behalf of the chamber, showed that London businesses are more likely to think that Sadiq Khan is pro-business (39%) than anti-business (16%). While the proportion who see him as pro-business is unchanged from Q1 this year, the proportion who see him as anti-business has dropped (down from 27%). LCCI chief executive Colin Stanbridge said: “No doubt in one sense the Mayor will view this a good news as it is certainly an improvement on business perception of him before the election. “However, Mayor Khan can’t be resting on his laurels as a third of businesses still think he is neutral and 16% believe he is anti-business. “While fewer business leaders now see him as anti-business, the proportion who see him as actively
PUBLIC NOTICES Section 17 Licensing Act 2003 Licensing Act 2003 Application for a new Premises Licence Notice is hereby given that Conilon Ltd has applied to the City of London on 14th December 2016 for a new premises licence to use 2 Plough Place, London EC4A 1BG For the provision of Licensable Activities namely:The Supply of Alcohol Monday to Friday between 0700-2200 A record of this application is held by the City of London and can be viewed by members of the public online by visiting www.cityoflondon.gov.uk or by appointment at the offices of City of London licensing authority, Walbrook Wharf, 78-83 Upper Thames Street, London. EC4R 3TD. Any person wishing to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing to the licensing authority at the address shown above, giving in detail the grounds for objection by 11th January 2017. The licensing authority must receive representations by the date given above. The licensing authority will have regard to any such representation when considering the application. It is an offence under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application for premises licence and the maximum fine on being convicted of such an offence is £5000.
vote of confidence: Mayor Sadiq Khan
pro-business is unchanged, suggesting that business leaders are still cautious about his credentials.” Mr Stanbridge said that LCCI members had been encouraged by Mr Khan’s decision to bring forward transport infrastructure projects such as the Night Tube and the Bakerloo line extension, as well as backing the £344million expansion of London City Airport. “We are also pleased that he has taken on board our proposals for a London work permit and London
visa in the wake of the referendum,” he added. “All of these are essential to ensure that London remains globally competitive, especially at a time when businesses are uncertain about the future. “However, we would question his hesitancy to back a third runway at Heathrow. “Therefore he’s not making a bad start but I’m not sure he has quite yet fulfilled his pledge to be the ‘most pro-business mayor ever’. There’s still a lot left to play for.”
Women billed for top roles LEADING names in the world of business have thrown their weight behind plans to increase the number of women in top-level job roles in the next five years. The likes of Barclays, HSBC, Aviva and the London Stock Exchange Group – along with 67 other firms signed up to the Treasury’s Women in Finance Charter – have committed to increasing the average number of female employees in seniors positions to 35% from 27% by 2020. CEO of Virgin Money Jayne-Anne Gadhia said: “More women than men start out in financial services but, as they progress, the majority fall out, especially at middle management level. This leaves almost all the top jobs in the hands of men. “Achieving a balanced workforce at all levels will improve culture, behaviour, profitability and productivity.”
Brokerage seals bronze accolade THE Brokerage Citylink has been awarded a bronze accolade at the Training Journal Awards for its flagship internship programme. The City-based social mobility charity was hailed in the best not-for-profit programme category, and recognised for initiatives that have a “lasting impact” on the organisation and its beneficiaries. The City of London Business Traineeship, run on behalf of the Corporation, helps state school students from the City’s neighbouring boroughs to develop the skills needed for a successful career. Through the programme, students can access six to 13-week paid internships at some of the Square Mile’s most prestigious businesses and institutes.
Development Société Générale, Bank of England, Marsh, CNA Hardy and William Blair are among the firms that have taken part in the past 12 months. Melissa Lucien, head of programmes at The Brokerage, said: “Receiving this award for delivering the City of London Business Traineeship programme is fantastic, and for us has reinforced the importance of good, paid work experience. “Trainees on the programme are paid the London Living Wage (as a minimum), to ensure equal access for all, and the learning and development opportunities that the students receive alongside working provide them with an opportunity to really build their cultural
capital, enabling them to compete on a level playing field with their peers.” Since The Brokerage began delivering the programme in 2000, over 1,300 young people have benefited from paid internships with more than 100 of the Square Mile’s top employers. By fully integrating young people into the operations of the company, with real work and real responsibility, students are able to develop their skills, with more than 50% later using the experience as a springboard into a career in professional and financial services.
Talent Mark Boleat, policy chairman at the Corporation, revealed his pride at the awarding of the bronze prize. He added: “Offering paid internships means a company can attract young talent from all walks of life, not just those who can afford to work for free. “The City Business Traineeship has, so far, supported thousands of state school students from some of London’s most deprived areas into prestigious paid internships across the Capital. “We continue to develop new and innovative employment schemes across the Capital, giving people a chance to cultivate essential employability skills.” City-based companies that would like to take part in this initiative by offering internships in summer 2017 should contact The Brokerage for more information.
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Christmas 2016 | Page 7
Entertainment Matters
YOUR GUIDE TO THE SQUARE MILE’S GLORIOUSLY FESTIVE SERVICES
Christmas calling out THOUGH Christmas was celebrated through song as far back as Roman times, carolling didn’t really find favour in England until the Victorian era, after EW Benson, Bishop of Truro (later Archbishop of Canterbury), drew up the format for the Nine Lessons and Carols service, which has remained in use ever since. Nowadays, whether choral and traditional or peppy and X Factor-ed, carols become the Capital’s soundtrack each December, reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas as we munch our way through mince pies, add to wish lists and curse the crowds on Oxford Street. It is perhaps why traditional carolling remains so popular, with hundreds of services planned throughout the festive season. The Archdiocese of London predicts churches between the West End and the City alone will welcome more than 100,000 people through their doors in the lead up to Christmas, with the Venerable Luke Miller, Archdeacon of London, saying churches were “struggling to cope with the numbers.” The truth is, there’s nothing like a rousing rendition of Good King Wenceslas to sprinkle some extra holiday cheer on the season. From grand choral affairs at St Paul’s Cathedral to St Bart’s Dickensian-flavoured classics, here’s a taste of the City’s festive services:
LORD MAYOR’S CAROL SERVICE / St Lawrence Jewry
St Lawrence Jewry is the official guild church of the City of London, so it seems only fitting that its programme of 15 festive services culminates in a special programme in honour of the City’s new Lord Mayor Dr Andrew Parmley. Join Dr Parmley and the Lady Mayoress in some traditional carolling and stick around for the obligatory mince pies and mulled wine after the festivities. Guildhall Yard, EC2V 5AA 21 December, 5.30pm
A CHORAL CHRISTMAS / London Symphony Orchestra
The LSO’s annual carol event brings together children from the LSO Discovery Choirs, local singers in the LSO Community Choir, and the London Symphony Chorus for a 330-strong
vocal unit accompanied by the LSO’s String Ensemble. Conductor Simon Halsey will lead a programme of traditional audience carols and Christmas songs to get even the most ardent Scrooge into the spirit. This is a ticketed event and admission starts at £10. Barbican Hall, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS 21 December, 7.30pm
FLEET STREET CAROLS / St Bride’s
Back when Fleet Street was the epicentre of the media world, Fleet Street Carols was a case of ‘O Come O Ye Journos’ as everybody from the copyboys to the editors and printers gathered to celebrate Christmas together. Today, a new group of firms and businesses have moved into the parish but the event remains an opportunity for young and old to gather in this tight-knit congregation and get into the festive spirit. There are two services throughout the day, though lunchtime is always the busier of the two so the advice is to hold off until evening or prepare to squish. Fleet Street EC4Y 8AU 22 December, midday and 5pm
A CHRISTMAS CAROL / St Bartholomew the Great
Charles Dickens had a hand in carving out many of the images we associate with Christmas, no more so than in his classic tale A Christmas Carol. This special service eschews modern day music and texts to focus on those from the Victorian era. Enjoy readings from Dickens and his contemporaries, as well as carols sung to the music that would have been used at this time of year. Cloth Fair EC1A 7JQ 23 December, 6pm
CHRISTMAS EVE CAROL SERVICE / St Paul’s Cathedral
With just one more sleep to go, Britain’s spiritual home is the perfect place to bring in Christmas Day. There’s nothing more to buy, bake, wrap or festoon in tinsel, so why not pay a visit to Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural masterpiece for a rendition of Silent Night from the Cathedral Choir. You’ve earned it. St Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8AD 24 December, 4pm
STORY BEHIND YOUR FAVOURITE CAROL THE words of Silent Night were written by a priest called Father Joseph Mohr (left) in Mariapfarr, Austria, in 1816. It wasn’t until two years later in 1818 that music was added by his friend Franz Xaver Gruber for the Christmas service at St Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, also in Austria. Famously, the carol was sung during the Christmas truce during the First World War in December 1914 as soldiers on both sides of the battle knew the words.
illustrious setting: St Paul’s Cathedral
Page 8 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Community Matters
What’s on when & where in the City EXHIBITION / Skating on Ice A new display at the Museum of London traces the Capital’s obsession with ice skating. The exhibition looks at the popular seasonal pastime which, in London, dates back to at least the 12th century. The first known account by William Fitzstephen describes locals strapping animal bones to their feet to play on a patch of ice at Moorfields in 1173. The display tracks the advancements in ice skate designs, highlights changing fashions, and demonstrates how skating on the Capital’s frozen lakes and ponds became an annual, if sometimes dangerous, winter tradition. It’s free to attend so slide on in anytime before early February. Until 8 February 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN FESTIVAL / International Mime Festival The 40th anniversary of the London International Mime Festival kicks off next month, featuring wordless performances from
anniversary: the International Mime Festival returns once more
juggling to clowning and dance to puppetry. It takes place at venues across London, including the Barbican and Shoreditch Town Hall. It’s the longest-running festival of its kind, maintaining the popularity of an artform which helped launch the careers of Toby Jones, Simon McBurney and Sacha Baron Cohen. No doubt the volume will be raised in the new year so stick it in the diary. Various venues 9 January to 4 February SKATE / Bump Roller Disco Take festive fun indoors this winter with Bump’s ever-popular mobile roller disco. Avoid soggy clothes and slips on the ice at the Southbank Centre until well into the new year. Hire skates or bring your own, and watch out for special club nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Until 22 January Southbank Centre, Belveder Road SE1 8XX
’ice work: Skating on Ice at the Museum of London
DANCE / The Red Shoes The Sadler’s Wells stage will be the setting for a performance based on the hit film inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s beloved fairy tale. Matthew Bourne, the acclaimed British dancer, is directing the affair, with Ashley Shaw taking on the role of Victoria Page, a ballerina torn between the man she loves and her pursuit of becoming a prima ballerina. Expect a faithful reproduction with a few surprises thrown in for good measure; do not forget that Bourne has previously staged a homoerotic adaptation of Swan Lake. Until 29 January Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue EC1R EXHIBITION / The Royal African The story of an African prince sold into slavery and his connection to one of the largest companies involved in the slave trade at the time, the Royal African Company, is now being told at the Museum of London Docklands. Founded in 1672 as a joint venture between the Duke of York, who was to become King James II, and leading merchants in London, the Royal African Company held a monopoly over the slave trade in West Africa. This display focuses on the history of the firm by telling the story of an African prince, William Sessarakoo,
otherwise known as ‘The Royal African’. Sessarakoo was the son of the head of a leading family in West Africa. He grew up in the Royal African Company’s fort at Annamaboe which was located in present day Ghana. Find out more between now and the summer. Until 4 June No.1 Warehouse, West India Dock Road, Canary Wharf E14 4AL LISTEN / King Creosote It’s time to look ahead to 2017; Kenny Anderson, aka King Creosote, presents an expanded performance of music from his new album, Astronaut Meets Appleman, mixing traditional folk instrumentation with elements of electronica. Taking a more experimental approach to his usual work, Astronaut Meets Appleman explores our relationship with technology, juxtaposing looping vocals and electronic ambience with the innocence of his daughter’s vocals and his characteristic mix of bagpipes and accordion. With his usual band augmented by a larger ensemble here, this is a chance to see the rich textures and layered instrumentation of his new record fully realised live. Booking essential on the Barbican Centre website. 22 January 7.30pm Barbican Centre, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS
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J Rogers & Sons - Shoe repair shop 28 Liverpool St, London EC2M 7PD
Pod Good Food 75 King William Street, London EC4N 7BE
Sweetings Restaurant 39 Queen Victoria St, London EC4N 4SF
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Guildhall Library Aldermanbury, London EC2V 7HH
Protestant Truth Society Inc - Book Shop 184 Fleet St, London EC4A 2HJ
Temple Brew House 46 Essex St, London WC2R 3JF
EL Vino Wine Merchant 6 Martin Lane, Cannon St, London EC4R 0DP James Shoe Care 59 Moorgate, London EC2R 6BH Jeeves Dry Cleaners 131 Fleet St, London EC4A 2BH
Romo Coffee Lord Raglan Pub, St Martins le Grand 61 St Martins le Grand, St Pauls London EC1A 4ER 1 Minster Court, Mincing Ln, London EC3R 7AE Merchant House Pub London 13 Well Court, London EC4M 9DN Middle Library Middle Temple Ln, London EC4Y 9BT
Scott’s Shoe repair & Dry Cleaners City Thameslink Station, Holborn, Concourse London EC4M 7RA Scott’s Shoe repair & Dry Cleaners City Thameslink Station, 65 Ludgate Hill London EC4M 7JH
The Natural Kitchen 176 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HR The Old Bank of England Pub 194 Fleet St, London EC4A 2LT Ye Old Cheshire Cheese 145 Fleet Street, London EC4A 2BU
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Christmas 2016 | Page 9
Food Matters
Ember’s all fired up INTRODUCING THE LATEST SPARK TO SET UP SHOP IN PUDDING LANE THERE are two overused clichés that spring to mind when one learns of the “top chefs, mixologists and sommeliers” that had a hand in creating Ember, the new late night drinking and dining destination on Pudding Lane. Spruiking a restaurant with a DJ booth for dining and dance, a cellar for small group gatherings, and a hidden bar for whiskey and sake tastings begs the question: is Ember trying to be too many things to too many people? Will it be a case of “many hands make light work” or “too many cooks spoil the broth”? Happily, the reality is far more of the former and only one or two cases of the latter; namely in the slightly bored looking DJ looking down at diners from her perch. But as for the food and drink, those top chefs, mixologists and sommeliers seem to be working in perfect harmony to make light work of a pleasant evening at Ember. Food is at the hand of executive chef Jonathan Villar, formerly head chef of Peter Gordon’s (now closed) Seven Dials cafe Kopapa and, more recently, a brief stint at Antipodean-style eatery Bronte in Trafalgar Square. In throwing lesser-known flavours into the mix, Villar has managed to inject fresh life into the archetypical Asian-European fusion cuisine. Think Korean ‘pajeon’ king prawns with calamari fritters and a spicy jam of chilli, wasabi and beetroot, inari tofu with an urad dal curry and coconut sambal, and the insta crowd pleasing wagyu beef and foie gras burger with
bright sparks: Ember gets the seal of approval
smokey miso relish, streaky bacon and oozy Gruyere cheese on an avocado bun – as carbfree as a burger comes. Every dish on the menu has been designed to be paired with items from the extensive cocktail and wine list, whether it’s the Vietnamese goat curry with a light, fruity Gewürztraminer or the curious (but quite nice) hot-smoked salmon cheesecake with a Junmai sake. Signature cocktails are presented under the auspices of light, medium and dark: a refreshing Kimchi martini for lunch or pre-dinner, the rich and nutty River Dragon during the meal, and the Kiuchi Highball to wind down – though by the sound of the Japanese whisky, sherry chocolate bitters and amber ale concoction, the party might be just getting started.
Reference There’s also the Kitsune, a cocktail designed to cleanse the palate with an Acmella Oleracea (otherwise known as an electric daisy), which alters your taste receptors in what is an odd and not exactly pleasurable experience, but one you’re unlikely find anywhere else in these parts. In fact, the only stereotype Ember does succumb to is in its name – a reference to its location in Pudding Lane, widely accepted as the starting point for the Great Fire of London. But with a launch amidst all the pomp surrounding the 350th anniversary of this catastrophic event, it is unlikely to spoil the broth. 1a Pudding Lane EC3R 8AB
LET’S DO...
NEW MEXICAN / Breddos Tacos True taco fans will be familiar with this Street Feast stalwart, which started off in a Hackney car park in 2011 before launching a bestselling cookbook and repping London at the LA’s Tacolandia festival earlier this year. Now Breddos is putting down some roots, bringing the Clerkenwell crowd no fewer than 10 different taco options, plus tostadas and tlayudas (Mexican pizzas). Breakfast at this all-day taqueria brings blueberry churro French toast or Austin-style tacos, while the wood grill is fired up for dinner, dishing out spit roast Iberico Pork Al Pastor with roasted pineapple, sea urchin tostadas, mutton barbacoa and beef rib birria. 82 Goswell Road EC1V 7DB EATING AT ALTITUDE / 1 Undershaft There’s about to be a new top dog of sky-high dining in London with the newly approved 73-storey building at 1 Undershaft to house the Capital’s highest restaurant. Designed by architect Eric Parry for Singaporean developers Aroland Holdings, the newly-nicknamed ‘Trellis’ building will have a free public viewing gallery and a restaurant higher than the Shard’s Gong (52nd floor) and the Heron Tower’s SushiSamba and Duck & Waffle (39th and 40th floors respectively). The tower isn’t slated for completion until well into the 2020s, so feel free to spoil your appetite for at least the next decade. 1 Undershaft EC3P 3DQ DRINKS ON THE FLY / Aviary Two months after the opening of Burdock on the ground floor of the Royal London Hotel, hospitality giant the ETN Group is further adding to Finsbury Square’s culinary credentials with Aviary, a brand new drinking and dining destination on the roof. Perched 10 floors above the construction site that is Moorgate, Aviary takes its ornithological references very seriously, from the large ornate birdcage suspended above the stairway to the proud pair of peacocks heralding the venue’s entrance. The menu has been designed around high-quality British meat and fish cooked over charcoal, while cocktails embrace the botanical theme under headings like Floral & Elegant, Tricks & Treats, Coppers & Sharing Pineapples, and Deep & Dirty. 22 Old Broad St EC2N 1HQ
Get everything you need for your Christmas Day Roast at
Thompsons of Smithfield We supply a range of turkeys at unbeatable prices, as well as honey roast ham, pigs in blankets, smoked salmon, sausage stuffing, cheese, plus much more...
Come down to our shop in Smithfield Market between 2am-9:30am Monday – Friday, to get all you need for your Festive Feast!
Page 10 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
‘Unforgettable. Magic’
‘Superb. Inventive’
Guardian
Daily Telegraph
Until 4 Feb South Bank, London SE1
A co-production with
Photography by Sam Robinson
by JM Barrie devised by the Companies
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Christmas 2016 | Page 11
Shopping Matters
11th-HOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IS UPON US
Final festive fling LEFT your Christmas shopping until the last minute? You’re not alone. Almost half (45%) of UK adults still have shopping to do, with 11th-hour purchases averaging £66 according to American Express research. But if you thought you were doomed to spend Christmas Eve fighting the crowds on Oxford Street, think again. The Square Mile is full to bursting with last-minute gifts ideas you can grab on your lunch hour – you just need to know where to look… FOR THE CLOTHES HORSE / One New Change The City’s largest shopping centre has a good mix of high street retailers that can sort you out for fashion, accessories and shoes. Those up for a game of chicken would do well to wait until Christmas Eve, as some stores are predicted to slash prices by an average of 54%, according to accountancy firm Deloitte. You could also be in with a chance to win a whole host of prizes as part of One New Change’s 24 days of giveaways, with everything from high tea to party dresses up for grabs. 1 New Change EC4M 9AF FOR THE ONE WITH EXPENSIVE TASTE / Royal Exchange Buying for someone who prefers the
Sunday morning mainstay, traders fill the historic marketplace seven days a week, spruiking cutting edge fashion and interiors and original artworks. Grab a bespoke handbag made with upcycled leather from accessories label Yildiz & I, menswear with a dash of panache from Patch by Panod, items to pamper your pooch from Edwyn UK, and novel-inspired prints from ABookOnOnePage. Brushfield Street E1 6AA cool and crafty: Old Spitalfields
finer things in life? With more than 30 luxury retailers, the Royal Exchange should be your first port of call. Check out some of the British heritage brands for a sure-fire treasure trove of gift ideas – from an embossed leather day planner from Smythson to a personalised enamel snuffbox from Halcyon Days or an original fragrance from Penhaligon’s. 3 Royal Court EC3V 3LN FOR THE COOL AND CRAFTY / Old Spitalfields Market A huge range of independent market traders makes Old Spitalfields the go-to for unique handcrafted gifts. Once a
FOR THE FOODIE / Leadenhall Market It might be the smallest of the bunch but Leadenhall Market’s collection of special food retailers are a one-stop shop for stocking fillers. Visit Amathus Drinks for a unique range of fine wines, port and Champagne plus an unrivalled selection of spirits and liqueurs, or check out Bedales for a wine workshop with a difference. When in doubt, Cheese at Leadenhall has over 200 cheeses from Britain and Europe to choose from and what owner Sue Cloke (aka the ‘Duchess of Cheese) doesn’t know about dairy really isn’t worth knowing. Stop by Leadenhall any time this week between midday and 2pm to catch live entertainment from Jack Foley, Charlie Carter and Rob Houston. Gracechurch St EC3V 1LT
intimidated: a study has shown women are put off by attractive shop assistants
Women will dodge stores with attractive sales staff NEARLY 70% of London women are “too intimidated” to ask shop assistants for advice, new research has revealed. A survey of 2,000 UK women aged between 25 and 40 found that 43% of women admitted avoiding a store and instead shopped online because they were put off by “more attractive” sales staff. The research, carried out by jewellery brand Stella & Dot also found that 56% of women were deterred from shopping because salespeople were “more stylish,” and 45% avoided shops because the staff members were “younger” than they were — which caused them “anxiety.” Some 70% of the respondents said they preferred not to speak to shop assistants at all
and would rather just browse without being asked if they need any help. Most said they would turn to friends for style advice. Stella & Dot’s jewellery and accessories lines are available exclusively through in-home trunk shows, where the host invites friends over to browse items, removing any element of interaction with salespeople. Stella & Dot vice president Kathleen Mitchell said: “Shopping should be a joy and one where you can expect great honest advice or, even better, some help with the legwork by a personal shopper. “That is why we believe that all women deserve a new way to shop – a way that is fun and easy.”
Your chance to win
LUXURY eyewear brand Cutler and Gross is giving one lucky City Matters reader the chance to win a voucher to spend on a brand new pair of hand crafted frames. The winner will be able to book a personalised style appointment in the Spitalfields store, where assistants will help them choose the perfect frame from Cutler and Gross’ timeless designs. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is to tell us in what year Cutler and Gross was founded. Answers, along with your name and phone number, should be sent to editorial@citymatters.london by 30 December, with the winner notified in the new year. *Terms and conditions apply. Voucher is valued at £310 and cannot be exchanged for cash. Change will not be given if purchase does not reach value of voucher. Winners drawn at random, only successful entrants will be notified. One entry per person.
Page 12 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Christmas 2016 | Page 13
Wellness Matters
ONE IN 10 FEEL ‘UNABLE TO COPE’ DURING WINTER HOLIDAY Mind’s tips for coping with festive pressures this year Identify your triggers Working out what triggers stress can help you anticipate problems and think of ways to solve them. Even if you can’t avoid these situations, being prepared can help.
Organise your time Make a list of things you have to do and focus on the most urgent ones first. Vary your activities to balance stressful tasks with more enjoyable ones and try not to do too much at once. Identify your most productive time of day and tackle the important stuff when your energy and concentration levels are at their highest. Address other causes of stress There are some things in life that you can’t do anything about, but plenty you can. Issues to do with finances, work, family and personal life all contribute to your stress levels and there might be ways to resolve or at least improve them. Check out mind.org.uk for information. Accept the things you can’t change It’s not easy, but accepting that there are some things happening to you that you probably can’t do anything about will help you focus your time and energy more productively.
‘Tis the season to be stressed THE pressure to have the ‘perfect Christmas’ is wreaking havoc on our mental health, new research has shown. Mind, the UK’s leading mental health charity, revealed last week that more than one in 10 people feel unable to cope at Christmas, and that one in five feel lonelier during the festive season than at any other time of year. Researchers surveyed more than 2,000 Brits last month, and found that more than a quarter of people felt the pressure to have the ‘perfect Christmas’.
Challenging It is a particularly challenging time of year for those experiencing mental health problems; with the number of people feeling unable to cope almost triple that of the wider population (31%), and 39% feeling lonelier now than at any other time of year. They are also twice as likely to feel the pressure of perfection as the national average and 19% admitted they compare their Christmas to others on social media. More disturbing was the finding that one in 20 people consider taking their own life directly because of the festive period (5%), rising to more
pressures pile up: combat them with Mind’s tips (left)
than one in five of those with mental health problems (22%). Commenting on the findings, Mind’s head of information Stephen Buckley said: “Although for many people Christmas is something to look forward to, it can also bring with it additional pressures such as financial strains, feeling that everything has to be perfect, and loneliness.” “This can be particularly difficult for the one in four people who experience a mental health problem, especially if they feel unable to ask for help.” One in 10 people with a mental health problem don’t know where to get professional support over the festive period if they needed it, prompting Stephen’s plea for people to donate to the charity’s Christmas appeal. “Mind can’t make Christmas perfect, but we can ensure that everyone has the support they need, whether through our Infoline or online resources, such as our guides for coping with stress, and our Elefriends online peer support community,” he said. “Please donate to our Christmas Appeal at mind.org.uk/ourchristmas to help us be there for someone who needs us this Christmas.”
Christmas 2016 ounting House C e h T Built in 1893 as a magnificent banking hall the aptly named Counting House oozes 19th Century Grandeur Decorated with a Victorian theme, it will be the perfect location to Celebrate Christmas
We have several function rooms available to hire | We can accommodate groups from as little as 6 people to as many as 120 people | The Counting House can cater for a 3 course sit down, a buffet event or a drinks party
We will take care of all planning and necessary details to make sure your event is a huge success!
Quality food and great service makes this pub the best place to celebrate Christmas this year Th e C ounting House, 50 Cornhi ll, L ondo n EC 3 V 3 P D | T: 02 07 2 83 71 2 3 | E : c o un ti n gh ou se @f ul l e r s.c o.uk
Page 14 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Christmas 2016 | Page 15
City Spotlight Local authority hails City Air app
Landmark hit in St Barts’ leading research project ONE of the world’s fastest growing medical research programmes – housed at St Barts – has recruited its 10,000th patient. The Barts Bioresource, which was launched in 2014, holds a wealth of clinical data for heart-focused medical research, including biological samples and key patient medical information. In contrast to other similar programmes, researchers have found that of 10,000 patients: 81% agreed for the Bioresource to use their healthcare related information for research; 90% agreed to be contacted about opportunities to take part in clinical trials; and 86% agreed to donate tissue. Purita Cioffi, the 10,000th patient of the Bart’s Bioresource, said: “I have had heart problems for most of my life. I see this as an opportunity to save people a lot of pain and discomfort. It made complete sense to take part.” Professor Art Tucker, ethical adviser to the Bioresource and the first patient it ever recruited, added: “I am delighted and excited by how the Bioresource has grown in such a short period of time. When I first signed up as patient number one, the mission was simple: to help find new ways of identifying, treating and preventing heart diseases. We now have ambitions of extending the remit to cover other medical specialities.” Professor Steffen Petersen, principal investigator of the Bioresource, hailed the initiative and its patients. He said: “I want to personally thank every single one of our 10,000 participants for helping to create this unique information-rich resource that will help improve the quality of life for patients and even save lives of many people. Without their support and continuing contribution this would not be possible.”
SIT BACK AND RELAX AS SANTA READIES HIS SLEIGH
Christmas perches THE weather outside is not quite frightful... however, the fire is still delightful and London is stocked with plenty of perches from which to soak up Christmas good will this festive season. City-goers need look hard enough to catch a glimpse of terraces full of revellers sampling yuletide favourites and modern twists on Christmas classics. Here, City Matters unveils the top winter terraces which deserve a visit before 25 December.
The Winter Garden at Le Pont de la Tour
The restaurant’s magical Winter Garden (above) has launched in collaboration with Tanqueray 10, serving winter warmer cocktails. Decorated with luxurious furry blankets, the terrace menu features fancy drinks including the delicious Le Pont Martinez and seasonal White Tower. Until the end of February, head chef Frederick Forster will be serving up an array of fondues, from truffle cheese right through to the indulgent Belgian chocolate, all paired with exquisite wines picked by the sommelier team. Experience the perfect winter warmer in a relaxed and glamorous ambience whilst enjoying spectacular views of the Thames.
Orrery’s rooftop terrace in Marylebone
Orrery have teamed up with Hennessy to create a Courchevel-inspired
winter terrace. Sample their new line of hot and cold cocktails, including Orrery XO, mulled wine and Hennessy Chocolate Delight. Mince pies, a cheese board and cognac cake dessert will also be available at this Marylebone bolthole.
Big Easy Canary Wharf Terrace
This 150 cover, west facing wraparound terrace offers guests a unique location in Canary Wharf to enjoy alfresco drinking and dining above the city. A Warm Winter Tipple menu is available, offering mulled cider, wine and sherry, boozy hot chocolates and a range of hot cocktails – none grander than the Big Easy Hot Buttered Rum (butter, demerara sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, apple juice, and eight-year Bacardi).
Bankside’s Wonky Wonderland winter terrace
This Christmas, Hilton Bankside are hosting London’s first Wonky Wonderland installation in collaboration with Better Bankside and Character Christmas Trees. Dedicated to finding a home for unloved and unwanted Christmas trees, the popup is part of the Bankside Urban Forest initiative, a longterm project dedicated to bringing new life and uses to outdoor spaces in Bankside SE1. Dressed in festive solar-powered fairy lights, the trees surround the hotel’s winter terrace, which itself is furnished with cosy blankets and serves spiced winter cocktails, roasted chestnuts and The Distillery’s Ultimate Christmas Sandwich. In the new year, the bark from the trees will be re-used on local gardening projects, including the hotel’s own beehives situated on the meadow roof terrace of the building.
Galvin HOP Pilsner Urquell Winter Garden
Spitalfields pub deluxe, Galvin HOP, has launched a Winter Garden in partnership with the original golden pilsner, Pilsner Urquell. Running throughout the festive season and into the new year, the space is available for private hire. Adjacent to the restaurant, the Bavarian-style beer tent can accommodate 30 people seated, 40 people standing, and up to 80 people with the addition of its own private terrace, the perfect scene for an after-work drink or exclusive Christmas party. The beer tent also features its own bar comprising a 250-litre copper Pilsner tank serving 440 pints! For larger parties, sharing platters and a three-course menu are available.
Huge spike in property value
THE value of privatelyowned properties in the UK has soared to £5.5trillion according to Halifax bank. The figure has nearly trebled from £1.9trillion just a decade ago.
THE Corporation has launched a new version of its City Air App, giving users access to real-time air pollution data to automatically find the lowest pollution travel routes in London. The 3D augmented reality app, which cleverly calculates the concentration of air pollution along three routes between any two points in London, was unveiled at a Safer in the City event late last month, and has been created in partnership with experts at Kings College. It displays the least, average and most toxic routes, and the percentage difference between them, allowing Londoners to avoid pollution hotspots and have more choice when planning their travel in the Capital. The map is updated every hour using the latest data from monitoring stations across the London Air Quality Network, so users always have the most accurate and up-todate information at their fingertips.
Warning Users can specify whether they are a pedestrian, cyclist, jogger, driver, business or an “at-risk individual”. They can also sign up for alerts of a highpollution episode, giving users advanced warning of air pollution events and tips on reducing emissions and exposure to air pollution. Ruth Calderwood, air quality manager at the local authority, said: “You can’t see air pollution, but its effects on our health are undeniable. “But now this groundbreaking 3D technology will help people see London in a new and different way. “By putting this technology in the palms of their hands, we are helping Londoners take simple steps to avoid air pollution.” The app is available on the Apple Store now with the Android release
Something to share? Send your City of winter menu: (clockwise from top left) Orrery, Bankside, Galvin HOP, and the Big Easy Terrace
London stories to tom@citymatters.london
Page 16 | Christmas 2016
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
In Profile
Alastair’s crowning moment
proud of his achievement: Alderman Alastair King
THE ‘KING’ UNVEILS PROPOSALS FOR HIS BELOVED QUEENHITHE OF the 25 wards in the City of London, Queenhithe – a small collection of hills and laneways sandwiched between St Paul’s Churchyard and the Thames – has fewer accolades than most. It is not the largest ward; that honour goes to Farringdon Without. It could be the smallest, though Portsoken and Lime Street wards say otherwise. It doesn’t boast any historic landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral (Cordwainers) or municipal buildings like Mansion House (Walbrook). In fact, over 75% of Queenhithe was flattened during The Blitz, leaving just two listed buildings standing.
Underestimating But it is home to the newest member of the City of London’s Aldermanic Council, Alastair King, who says we are vastly underestimating this tiny patch of the Square Mile. “Queenhithe is actually home to several remarkable institutions,” he counters. “Millennium Bridge, the international headquarters of the Salvation Army, the City of London Boys’ School, and of course Painters’ Hall and its art collection – so it manages to pack a fair bit into one of the smallest areas.” The investment banker should know, after all he has lived in Queenhithe’s residential pocket
for over a decade, works nearby off Cannon Street, and served as deputy for recently retired Alderman Gordon Haines for 10 years. Such strong links made Alastair the obvious choice for voters in the ward election last month, where he beat out Common Councilman Patrick Streeter by a landslide 122 votes to three. On the subject of Queenhithe’s bragging rights there is also the small matter of the world’s last remaining Anglo Saxon dock in Queenhithe Dock, but it’s the recent art installation lining its walls that makes Alastair particularly proud. The 30-metre Queenhithe Mosaic documents key events and personalities that make up the history of the area and its dock, which originally facilitated the importation of corn into London, and remained in use by the fur and tanning trades well into the 20th century. Unveiled in 2014, the mosaic is the work of
more than 300 volunteers and community groups who researched the site’s history, sourced materials from the river mud and cut and laid the tiles into the dock walls. Alastair calls it a “remarkable example of community art”, one that he would like to continue as one of his major initiatives as Queenhithe’s new alderman. “The ward was badly bombed, and some of the newer buildings here now need a little bit of help – there are a lot of bare walls, or ‘empty canvases’,” he explains. “Mosaics are quite a magical community art concept because you don’t have to be an artist to get involved in the creation of one – they’re so accessible. Long-term, I can
see a similar project linking the Tate Modern across Millennium Bridge to the new Museum of London site in Smithfields.” But blank walls aren’t Alastair’s only target for his tenure. In an interview with City Matters in the lead-up to the elections, he raised congestion on Upper Thames Street (inset) as one of the key challenges facing the ward. “This has been a real issue since the commencement of the construction of the Cycle Super Highway, when the eastbound carriageway was reduced to one lane,” he says. “The queues of traffic are very troubling, particularly for pollution in the area which is often above EU safety levels. “I see my role as a bridge between Transport for London and the City of London Corporation, and keep on both their cases to ensure the interests of residents and businesses are being met.” There’s also the issue of Queensbridge House, the long-delayed hotel development at Queenhithe Dock, which has langished on the banks of the Thames for the better part of 20 years. “There are several difficulties with the site, not least the water frontage and the fact that it is accessible via a bridge over a busy road [Upper Thames Street] that you can’t close off,” Alastair admits.
Communication
bone of contention: Upper Thames Street
“But we need to get things moving and I believe the way to do that is with regular open communication between the Corporation and the developer. “I have already made it my role to facilitate that through regular meetings where we can hold people to account.” Completion of the project means that the stretch of river walkway that currently diverts inland (a ward “embarrassment” says Alastair) can finally be rerouted along the Thames. Ironically, it was concern over the Queensbridge House, among other issues, that compelled Alastair’s move into local politics 17 years ago. “If an area needs to be upgraded, or you want to see change, somebody needs to champion it,” he says. “I am of the belief that if you’re going to complain about something, you have a duty to do what you can to find a solution.” If that resolution is anything to go by, Queenhithe looks set to have a fair bit more to brag about in the future.