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By Noah Vickers Local Democracy Reporter
Calls For the government to build at least one new town inside the greater london boundary have been issued by a major business group.
BusinessLDN argues that the capital could serve as the perfect “test bed for the new towns policy, given it has the political framework, infrastructure links and range of potential sites needed to establish new settlements at speed”.
As part of its strategy to tackle the housing crisis, Labour promised in its election manifesto earlier this year to “build a new generation of new towns, inspired by the proud legacy of the 1945 Labour government”.
Each of which will have a minimum of 10,000 new homes, with 40 per cent of the properties built in each new settlement expected to be classed as ‘affordable’.
In a new report on last Thursday, December 12, BusinessLDN said that London needs a new town “because of the huge housing need in the capital”.
The Government said in response that the independent New Towns Taskforce will report in 2025 on the proposed locations of new towns, while stressing that ministers are already “taking steps” to accelerate housing delivery in London.
BusinessLDN’s report, authored in partnership with leading consultants, architects and planners, points out that around 60 per cent of London’s green belt is within 2km of an existing rail or Tube station. That would mean that any potential new town would likely already have a decent level of public transport connectivity, the report argues.
Jonathan Seager, BusinessLDN’s policy delivery director, said: ”If the Government wants to move fast on new towns, London has the connectivity, demand and political set-up needed to get spades in the ground swiftly. The city is uniquely placed to house multiple types of these developments as part of the drive by ministers to hit ambitious housing and growth targets.”
He added: “Londoners are at the sharp end of the UK’s housing crisis. A quarter of people living in the city are in poverty after housing costs are taken into account, with challenges around availability and affordability also making it more difficult for businesses to recruit and retain staff. Building one or more new towns in the capital should be a no-brainer for both economic and social reasons.”
The new report suggests that London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, could speed up the process of creating a new town by
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CaLLs for the government to BuiLd at Least one neW toWn inside the greater London Boundary
establishing a new ‘mayoral development corporation’. These are special zones which can be created to oversee the regeneration of a particular area, usurping the planning powers of existing local authorities.
One was created to manage the area around the Olympic Park in Stratford, after the 2012 games had finished, and another is currently overseeing the development of land around Old Oak Common, where a new high speed railway station and thousands of new homes are being built.
Tom Copley, London’s deputy mayor for housing, said: “The mayor and I are determined to leave no stone unturned in boosting housing delivery in the capital, and to make the case for the measures needed to
build more homes.
“The scale of London’s housing need and the challenges facing delivery mean we need to think radically about where the homes of the future will come from, including where we can create additional new towns in and around the capital.
“We will continue to work hand in hand with housebuilders and the new Government to turn the tide on the legacy of recent years, helping to create a better, fairer London for everyone.”
According to the Government, its “new generation” of new towns will not only comprise “large-scale new communities built on greenfield land and separated from other nearby settlements”, but will also include
“a larger number of urban extensions and urban regeneration schemes”.
A spokesman at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, said in response to BusinessLDN’s report: “The independent New Towns Taskforce has been appointed to advise on locations for new towns and will provide its final report next year.
“Demand for housing in London is high and we have already taken steps to support mayor Sadiq Khan and London boroughs in accelerating housing delivery, by launching a New Homes Accelerator, providing the city with £150mn through the Brownfield Infrastructure and Land Fund and by bringing forward strategic sites for development.”
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Construction site in east London.
Photo by Noah Vickers
sadiq Khan Laughs off Petition CaLLing for a BLoCK on him getting a Knighthood
By Noah Vickers
Local Democracy Reporter
london mayor sadiq khan burst out laughing on Thursday night after being challenged about a petition calling for him not to be knighted.
The petition, started by Tory councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman, has accrued over 175,000 signatures.
Speaking at People’s Question Time – a twice-annual event where the mayor and London Assembly members field questions from the public – Mr Goodwin-Freeman said: “Nearly 200,000 people have signed my petition to block you getting your knighthood. Do you admit that you are actually just a ‘knight-mare’?”
The question was ruled “out of order” by the event’s chair, Labour assembly member Leonie Cooper, while Mr Khan guffawed.
Ms Cooper pointed out that the question had nothing to do with the economy, which was supposed to be the topic for that section of the evening. “I don’t think the honours system is covered by the economy,” she said.
Asked about his reported knighthood on Friday morning, Mr Khan said: “I’m too busy being the Mayor of London to indulge in those sorts of conversations. Let’s wait and see what the Cabinet Office and the King announces on January 1.” He dismissed Mr Goodwin-Freeman’s challenge over the petition, saying: “He’s a Tory councillor, a selfappointed commentator, but listen, he knows [in] the last three elections, the amount of votes I’ve got… They [the Conservatives] are used to losing, and let’s hope they carry on losing for the foreseeable future.”
Before mentioning his petition, Mr Goodwin-Freeman – who did not identify himself as an elected Conservative politician – blamed Mr Khan for London’s high cost of living.
“How can anyone afford to live in London anymore?” he asked. “You’ve increased council tax by 71 per cent. Pubs and clubs are closing at record levels.
“You expanded the Ulez against the wishes of Londoners. The Blackwall and Silvertown tunnel charges are coming in, despite the consultation.
“Housing – you’ve started just four per cent of housing [targets], but you were given £4bn by the Conservative Government. Where’s our money? We can’t live in a ‘start’, you have to finish the house.”
Mr Khan jokingly responded by getting Mr Goodwin-Freeman to admit that he lived in Harrow, a London borough – implying that it was evidently possible for the councillor, at least, to afford to live in London.
He added: “It’s worth you explaining that you are a Conservative councillor, is that right?”
Mr Goodwin-Freeman’s claim that “just four per cent of housing” has got started is a reference to the mayor’s current affordable homes programme.
The scheme has a target of starting construction on at least 23,900 new affordable properties across the capital by March 2026, but as of the end of September this year, only 2,124 have got started, or nine per cent of the target.
The event’s location – Battersea Arts Centre – was kept secret from the wider public, and was only given to registered ticket-holders three days in advance. The measure was put in place as a precaution to minimise “disruption” during proceedings.
The measure did not appear to have suceeded however, as the event was disrupted in its closing minutes by a man who was removed from the venue by security, after he refused to stop shouting at the mayor.
As he was taken outside, he could be heard shouting that the public was being lied to about the ‘Tooting Four’ – a group of anti-Ulez protesters who last week received total fines of around £1,000 each, when they were found guilty of harassing Sadiq Khan at his home.
Westminster Magistrates’ Court was told the incident took place in April this year, when they staged a protest “approximately 100 metres” from the mayor’s house in Tooting.
find out their thoughts on money and took part in a lively classroom discussion.
Year six teacher Robert Hamilton said: “We were delighted to welcome the film crew from Discovery Education. The children really enjoyed taking part and it was a great opportunity for them to share their learning of how money works and the importance of financial literacy. It is an important topic and I hope many more schools will follow suit.”
By Isabel Ramirez
PuPils aT a Peckham primary were featured on a special news programme to help teach children about money and finances, which is being shown across the UK.
The ‘How Much Do You Know About Money?’ News Bites Special debuted to thousands of UK primary schools last month, via Espresso News – the awardwinning news service for children. Produced in partnership with ITN Productions, Espresso News brings the world’s biggest stories to UK classrooms
The panto that has everything
wevery day.
The Espresso News Bites Special will help primary schools explore money management and financial responsibility through topics such as where money comes from, spending and saving. The film will also empower children to understand issues such as interest, inflation and supply and demand – while supporting teachers’ efforts to meet Maths and PSHE curriculum goals.
To create the News Bites Special, a film crew from Espresso News visited Bellenden Primary School in Peckham. Presenter Iain Jones interviewed pupils to
Lizzy Lambley, Discovery Education’s UK Head of Production said: “In a digital world where purchases are easy and rewards are immediate, it can be challenging for children to think critically when spending money. Our Espresso News Bites Special will help schools highlight the importance of money management and teach about financial literacy in an engaging and ageappropriate way.”
The Espresso News Bites Special can be viewed by subscriber schools at www. espresso.co.uk.
In addition to this special, Discovery Education also offers a host of curriculumaligned resources, to engage pupils with the subject of money and help them to develop financial literacy skills.
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital resources nurture curiosity and drive deeper engagement.
Explore Discovery Education’s digital learning services at www. discoveryeducation.co.uk.
Elimhouse Community Association Southwark
86-88, Bellenden Road, Peckham, London SE15 4RQ.
DEPUTY CENTRE MANAGER AND ACTIVITIES WORKER REQUIRED
Salary £30,000 per annum, 30 hrs. per week (Annual increase, holiday and pension scheme)
Elim House Community Centre in Southwark, London SE15 seeks to appoint a work to deliver community engagement, leisure time activities and day care for local people, particular BAME elderly people. She/ he will be responsible for ensuring and maintaining centre activities, community engagement initiatives and events for the benefits of the local community and day care. Being the team leader of frontline staff, you will undertake some day to day administration and service monitoring tasks. The appointed person will be an important member of the staff team, working closely with his/her line manager to ensure planned services and activities are delivered and the smooth running of the Centre.
Closing Date: 7 January 2025 by 12:00 noon.
Contact the centre for further details and application form:
Some of the Year 5 children were interviewed by the show's presenter, Iain Jones
Sadiq Khan laughs after being asked about a petition calling for him not to be knighted
EXCLUSIVE
By Herbie Russell
Buildings on the Canada Water masterplan look set to increase to heights of almost 50 storeys.
The Rotherhithe peninsular is already becoming South London's answer to Canary Wharf - but locals say the "massive" towers are beyond their wildest imaginations.
Developer British Land has said the whopping additions to the buildings, many of which already have planning permission, are needed due to new fire regulations and rising construction costs.
The construction giant, which is spearheading the £4 billion regeneration, said the proposed changes were “essential” to the site’s development.
The masterplan, which includes the Surrey Quays shopping centre, already has permission to build a mix of residential and office buildings rising up to 37 storeys.
British Land now wants to add 70 storeys to buildings across the site.
The developer has refused to say exactly how this will impact the heights of individual buildings but past planning documents and a diagram shared by the developer offer some guidance.
A diagram shared by British Land suggests a residential building on Zone F, east of the dock, will go from 37 to 49 storeys. Another Zone F building looks set to increase by six floors, taking it to 40 storeys. In total, ten buildings across the 53-acre masterplan are earmarked for an increase in height.
The developer will submit something called an S.73 application to Southwark Council before the end of this year which would allow the changes to proceed.
Southwark Council’s planning committee will then have to decide whether to give it the go-ahead.
British Land says the Building Safety Act 2022 is a key reason for the increases.
Introduced following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, it means all new residential buildings above eighteen metresequivalent to seven storeys - must have a second staircase.
British Land said this will mean “less space” for residential apartments so new floors must be added to make up for their loss.
The developer added that the “structure of the affordable housing offer” is “under
Canada Water toWers LooK set to reaCh aLmost 50 storeys in 'massive' inCrease
discussion”.
British Land also said Covid-19, Brexit and the Ukraine war had caused construction costs to rise by 30 per cent.
Steve Cornish, a well-known local activist, said the new storeys would be “money floors” for British Land.
“The higher floors are money floors,” he said. “That’s a big chunk of money because the ground floors are cheapest.”
A penthouse in The Founding, a 35-storey block already nearing completion on the masterplan, is currently on sale for £1.34 million.
Michael Robertson, a local resident, suggested the plans shouldn’t have been announced so close to Christmas, when
they are less likely to be scrutinised by the public.
Mr Robertson said: “Yes they are legally entitled to undertake the amdnement because of the second stairwells rule but… Joe Public don’t realise that some of these buildings will start getting absolutely massive.”
The Surrey Quays shopping centre will be demolished as part of the plans although this is not expected to take place until late 2028 at the earliest.
British Land has said a new health centre, police hub, and funding for a local primary school remain part of its plans.
Overall, the development is expected to deliver up to 3,500 new homes, two
Schoolchildren sing Christmas carols in aid of reading charity for adults
million sq ft of workspace and one million sq ft of retail, leisure, entertainment and community space.
35 per cent of homes will be affordable, split 70 per cent social rent housing and 30 per cent intermediate. Intermediate homes are typically 80 per cent of market value.
A spokesperson for British Land said:
“We are in discussions with Southwark Council and the Greater London Authority to amend the original Canada Water Masterplan.These discussions are due to continue until Spring next year.
“The proposed changes allow us to continue delivery of significant community benefits while responding to changes to
By Kieran Galpin
dulWiCh sChoolChildren have sung carols in aid of a southwark charity teaching adults to read and write.
Dulwich College Kindergarten and Infants school's (DUCKS) performed at Hays Galleria on the South Bank, on Wednesday, December 4.
Read Easy Southwark, their charity of choice, offers reading coaching to adults with low-level literacy skills, many of whom struggle to complete day-to-day tasks.
Jo Parker, Head of DUCKS, said the children “really empathise” with the work of Read Easy Southwark as they are learning to read themselves.
“The idea that some children never enjoy a bed time story because their parent or carer can’t read, really surprised them and they want to help,” she said.
Florence Wickert, Head of Music at DUCKS, said: "The Year 2 children at DUCKS worked really hard for their performance at Hay's Galleria in support of Read Easy Southwark.
"They are very proud that their singing will help raise money for such a great
building regulations including the Building Safety Act, as well as macro-economic factors such as steep construction cost inflation and sharp interest rate rises.
“Since planning permission was granted in 2020, we are proud of our strong progress at Canada Water and remain deeply committed to continue to invest in bringing tangible benefits to the local community and wider area.
“We hope to submit an application before the end of this year and expect the application will be determined by Southwark Council. This will happen once discussions with the GLA and Southwark Council conclude and the scheme specifics finalised.”
charity and help more adults learn to read.”
Read Easy Southwark works to improve adult literacy rates in Southwark through free one-on-one support.
Many beneficiaries of the charity have managed to hold down high-pressure jobs despite their difficulties reading.
“Sadly, there are very many adults living in Southwark who can't read or struggle to read," said Julia Williams, Team Leader at Read Easy Southwark.
“There are any number of reasons why, but the good news is that it's never too late to learn.”
Julia Williams continued: “We couldn't do it without local support and the children of Dulwich College Kindergarten and Infants school have been amazing.
“They have helped us raise money and awareness, but best of all, they've shown real understanding and great kindness.”
a young Peckham woman, whose fiancé needs a stem cell transplant to survive, is urging people to become donors and potentially “save a life".
Theo Kotz, 33, was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer, and now requires a stem cell transplant to survive.
Currently, no compatible match for Theo exists on the donor register.
Theo and his partner, Rebekah, have joined forces with blood cancer charity DKMS to encourage more people to register as stem cell donors, a process they describe as quick, easy, and potentially lifesaving.
Speaking about their campaign, Rebekah said, “We are on a mission to get Theo matched. There must be compatible donors out there — we just need to find them.
"Signing up as a stem cell donor could save not just Theo’s life but the lives of so many others in the same position.”
She added that the campaign is as
much about raising awareness as it is about finding a match for Theo. “Every single registration could be the difference between life and death for someone with blood cancer.”
Theo, a filmmaker and writer, first began experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and a lump on his neck earlier this year.
Tests confirmed he had acute myeloid leukaemia, which requires urgent treatment.
Currently receiving care in hospital, Theo remains hopeful about his prognosis but relies on the campaign to boost registrations and improve his chances of finding a match.
how to bEComE a donor DKMS, which supports patients in need of stem cell transplants, emphasises the simplicity of the donor registration process. Anyone aged 17 to 55 and in good health can request a swab kit online at dkms.org.uk/Theo.
Deborah Hyde, a spokesperson for DKMS, said: “In nine out of ten cases, stem cell donation is a straightforward
process similar to giving blood. Every 20 minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with blood cancer, so registering as a donor could provide a second chance at life for patients like Theo.”
At any given time, approximately 2,000 people in the UK are in need of a stem cell transplant. To learn more or request a swab kit, visit dkms.org.uk/Theo.
Rebekah and Theo together
Pe CK ham rye: Businesses imPaC ted By
deL ayed s tation s quare regeneration
CL aim the area has Been 'L eft to rot’
By Isabel Ramirez
PeCkham rye station is on the brink of a dramatic transformation, set to change the face of the entire area. yet, what should be a moment of excitement has become a source of frustration for local businesses, with one being forced to close altogether.
Plans to transform Peckham Rye Station Square, first announced in 2011 with a £3–£5 million budget, have faced significant delays.
Despite planning permission being granted in 2016 and the station’s Victorian restoration completed, the square remains largely unchanged eight years later.
The project, which was supposed to finish by autumn 2023, is now about three years behind schedule. Phase one, refurbishing the Blenheim Grove corner building, was completed in August 2024 but still awaits interior fittings for tenants. Phase two, demolishing part of the arcade, remains stalled until businesses are relocated.
But how have these setbacks impacted local businesses?
The delays contributed to one business being forced to close.
Richard Robinson, ex-owner of Coal Rooms, which closed in the summer after eight years operating, said the plans for the station area attracted them in the first place.
Robinson told us: "When we took it on the grand plans were shown to business owners. I was prepared to accept development but we're not really any further on."
Coal Rooms was 'right bang in the middle of it all' attached to the station building. The company recently went into liquidation and Richard said the
delays to the work were part of the reason for the restaurant's closure.
The hoardings were taken down last year when the station was restored, but he said they had a knock-on effect on footfall.
"When the hoardings were up, people assumed we were shut," he told us.
"Our trade was definitely affected."
He added: "The works left us in a state of uncertainty and challenges," claiming they were not told the reason behind the delays.
Robinson also pointed to the delays as a factor in anti-social behaviour in the area: "It's all enclosed and dark at night," he told us, whilst adding: "It's not a great time to be an operator in that area."
Not all businesses have the same opinion. Motown Caffe, based inside the station, is now in its 13th year of serving locals. The owner told us the delay to the square had 'no impact' on them.
Eileen Conn, founder of Peckham Vision and local activist in regular talks with business owners said: "The Council has done a very poor job by not keeping the businesses, station users and local people informed about the progress of the work.
"It is so inadequate and unsatisfactory and needs to change."
Councillor Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, responded to claims they were not informing businesses: “We are in ongoing negotiations with businesses directly affected by the redevelopment –particularly those that will need to relocate to allow the next phase of the scheme to start. Until those negotiations are complete we are not in a position to update the community more broadly on detailed timelines.
People
"We can confirm that we are currently out to tender for a main contractor for phase 2 and are broadly anticipating starting on site summer 2025”.
PECkham IS bEComIng worLd famoUS, bUt 'LookS LIkE It haS bEEn LEft to rot'.
Local business owner and resident Dan Deacon, who is based just off Rye Lane, expressed his frustrations about the state of development in Peckham. He acknowledged that delays in projects are common but said that seeing the development on Blenheim Grove completed a while ago only to remain empty, covered in graffiti already, was deeply disheartening.
According to Deacon, Rye Lane already feels neglected, with numerous boarded-up shop fronts. While no one wants the area overrun with chain stores, he emphasised that “some pride and care wouldn’t go amiss.”
Deacon described Peckham as an incredible place and urged the council to do better. He pointed out that the station’s surroundings, the first thing people see upon arriving in Peckham, give a poor impression. “There’s no signage about what is to come,” he said, adding that the area “just looks like it’s been left to rot.”
He pointed to Peckham’s glowing reputation in the media versus its reality. “What is insane,” he commented, “is that in the mainstream press, everyone bangs on about Peckham being one of the best neighbourhoods in the capital—sometimes Europe or even the world.
"Movies are shot here, but when it comes to civic pride, it seems to be severely lacking.”
Deacon linked his concerns to broader issues with redevelopment in the area, including the delays surrounding the
Aylesham Centre project. He said it feels like Peckham is “on a go-slow” compared to other parts of Southwark, such as Elephant and Castle, where projects are moving much faster.
He called for urgent action, stating: “The council need to get a firm handle on the situation and improve things quickly as it really impacts the overall feel for the community and is causing long-term damage.”
thIngS arE goIng on bEhInd thE SCEnES, InSIStS a LoCaL arChItECt.
Benedict O'Looney, the architect behind the Peckham Rye Station restoration said: "Whilst it seems like nothing is happening, there's quite a fair bit going on behind the scenes."
O'Looney has been working on the project since 2009, with the support of Network Rail, the Railway Heritage Trust and Southwark Council.
A 'prelude' to the modernisation of the Grade II-listed station, his work involved restoring the existing Victorian fabric of the station.
During the works, he and his team of architects uncovered a buried staircase, an abandoned billiard room, and a stunning facade.
Mr O'Looney told us: "Having spent much of the last five years working on the restoration, I couldn't wait for everyone to see it."
The next step, he confirmed, is getting new lighting put in: "It's not lit in there at the moment which is pretty harsh for the people around there," he said.
thE CoUnCIL aPoLogISEd for thE dEL ayS and SaId waS a 'PartICUL arLy ChaLLEngIng' ProjECt.
Cllr Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable
Development, said: “We very much share the frustration felt here and want nothing more than for the station square upgrade to progress. It’s long been a council priority that we are doing everything we can to move along.
“Delays are partly due to water ingress issues given the building’s location next to the railway, which have now been resolved.
“There are outstanding negotiations with some businesses affected who had expressed an interest in relocation. We are eager for these to reach a conclusion so that the second phase of building works can begin in summer 2025 as planned.”
"This is a particularly challenging project involving multiple stakeholders, landowners, a listed building, and live rail infrastructure and we apologise it has taken longer than originally anticipated."
why doES thE StatIon nEEd rEfUrbIShIng?
Peckham Rye Station is the busiest interchange in the UK without stepfree access, making it tough for people with mobility issues, parents with buggies, and shoppers to get around. The platforms and passageways are also too small for the crowds, leading to packed, uncomfortable conditions during busy times.
Southwark Council approved plans last year for Network Rail to modernise and improve the station. Whilst its original 19th-century features have been restored, the station itself is set for a £40million makeover.
Improvements include new lifts, accessible toilets, wider platforms, and bigger entrances along with better connections to the surrounding area.
just assumed we were closed' says ex-Coal Rooms owner (taken April 2023) - NOTE: the hoardings have since been removed the restaurant is no longer in business.
The arcade due to be demolished when phase 2 begins
The Blenheim Grove corner building
By Isabel Ramirez
Bermondsey sPa PLayground reoPens after £420K maKeover
a Children's playground in Bermondsey has reopened following a £420,000 refurbishment.
Located in Spa Gardens, Ellen Brown Adventure Playground serves children aged 8 to 15 and provides a safe space to play, learn, and grow. The refurbishment includes state-of-the-art interactive play equipment, a fun ball skills area, and a DJ booth, making it a hub for creativity and physical activity.
This is part of the council’s £3 million investment programme to revitalise playgrounds across the borough. Thanks to capital funding secured in 2020, the site has been completely revamped, including a £27,000 refresh of the Ellen Brown Centre building and this year’s £420,000 investment in cuttingedge play structures and equipment.
Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks, and Young People, said: "Ellen Brown Adventure Playground is now a vibrant
space where children can have fun, connect with others, and build lifelong memories. We are proud to have delivered this project on time and within budget, ensuring Bermondsey’s young people have access to the quality play facilities they deserve."
Over the last four years, the council has delivered transformations at playgrounds across the borough including improvements to Leathermarket Gardens Playground, Dickens’ Fields, Pelier Park, Peckham
Rye Under 5s Playground, Victory Park, and Fredericks Playground.
Work continues at Nursery Row Park, Peckham Rye Park Adventure Playground, Little Dorrit Playground, and Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park with plans to complete upgrades in 2025/2026.
London's oldest private girls' school wins approval for new home
By Robert Firth Local Democracy Reporter
london’s oldesT private girls’ school has gained approval for a new home for its pre-prep school in dulwich.
James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS), which costs over £24,000 per year to attend, received permission to construct a new building for kids aged four to seven from Southwark councillors at a meeting on Monday, December 9.
The new pre-prep school, which is just 200 metres away on East Dulwich Grove, will comprise of a three-storey teaching block, separate assembly hall and a play area for 120 pupils—13 more than the existing pre-prep school building at Dulwich Village can accommodate.
22 per cent of the school’s pre-prep pupils travelled to school by car, compared to 10 per cent on average across London.
In a statement he read out on behalf of himself and fellow Dulwich Village councillor Margy Newens, he said: “A few years ago the former headteacher of JAGS kindly invited us both to lunch and during this meal she described the school as ‘an engine for social mobility’.
“If you ask many people living near the school to form a sentence inspired by the words ‘JAGS’ ‘engine’ and ‘mobility’, they’d come up with something related to the large number of pupils being driven to the school, sometimes accompanied by some very poor driving behaviour by the adults driving those cars.”
Justine Addison, director of operations at JAGS, said the new pre-prep building would allow the school to have separate SEN [special educational needs] facilities, which there wasn’t space for in the current building.
Alex Hutchinson, headmistress of JAGS, said: “The existing preprep facility at 2 Dulwich Village, while much loved, is no longer fit for purpose. Built as an Edwardian residence, the building does not meet the expectations of a forward looking school. The classrooms are small and lack flexibility. Accessibility is limited and outdoor learning space is restricted. By relocating the pre-prep, we address these shortcomings and also unify the entire school community on one site.”
Two detached houses on East Dulwich Grove will be bulldozed to make way for the new school. But these lost homes will be replaced through the conversion of the current pre-prep school building at 2 Dulwich Village into four apartments. Members of a local residents’ association spoke against the plans, arguing that the new school would make traffic even worse in the area.
already saturated with five schools and about 6,000 pupils. There are jams from displaced traffic. There is polluted air and it is not a happy road.”
Maggie Brown, chair of East Dulwich Grove Residents’ Association, told the meeting: “We know the road is
Local Labour councillor Richard Leeeming echoed the residents’ concerns about traffic—noting that
Cllr Leeming said that he would like to see JAGS fund a chaperoned minibus service for children attending the pre-prep school, adding that another local private school, Dulwich Prep, had already committed to investing in such a service.
A planning committee made up of Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors unanimously approved the new school development at East Dulwich Grove and the conversion of the current pre-prep building at Dulwich Village into flats.
Southwark Council
CGI of James Allen's Girls' School's new planned pre-prep building on East Dulwich Grove
The playground at Spa Gardens has now reopened
st thomas' hosPitaL aCCused of 'negLigenCe and disCrimination' after tragiC deaths
By Isabel Ramirez
a grieving Camberwell woman is demanding accountability after her sister and unborn baby girl tragically died due to complications during childbirth at st Thomas' hospital.
Ayaan Ali Waeys was just 35 when she died after giving birth to her first child, a girl who was stillborn two months before her due date in November 2022.
Her sister, Fowsiya Ali Waeys, who lives in Camberwell, is taking legal action against the hospital whilst raising serious concerns about what she believes were significant failings in her sister’s care and potential missed opportunities to save her life.
Fowsiya described how Ayaan showed clear signs of pre-eclampsia in the weeks leading up to her death. She developed high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, swelling, and protein in her urine, but Fowsiya said her sister was never seen by a consultant at her hospital appointments.
“Every sign was there for pre-eclampsia. All of them, she had it,” she said. “I think if she had been seen by a consultant, she wouldn’t have been discharged… It seemed like no one was worried about her; no one was flagging anything serious.”
Fowziya told us she was the one who referred her sister to St Thomas’ Hospital, having had four children there herself. “I thought she would be in good hands. But everything that could have gone wrong with her did."
On the morning of 2 November 2022, Ayaan woke up with abdominal pain and went to the hospital, where she was found to be in labour. The baby had already died. Fowsiya said Ayaan experienced heavy bleeding following the emergency delivery but claimed that the staff did not notice immediately. “They didn’t even find out until my brother-in-law nearly fainted.
He said the amount of blood on the bed was just really worrying, and then [Ayaan] started fainting.”
She spoke to her sister on the phone during this time, and Ayaan expressed her fears about the bleeding, asking, “Will I lose my uterus? What will happen to me?”
By the time Fowsiya arrived at the hospital, she said Ayaan was already in surgery. She was taken to intensive care, where doctors placed her in a coma, but the bleeding was too severe.
Over the next two-and-a-half weeks, the family said they struggled with staff
62-year-old
By Herbie Russell
PoliCe are appealing for witnesses after an alleged unprovoked stabbing almost killed a 62-year-old man in Peckham.
The incident at around 10.27pm on Thursday, December 5, left the victim with life-threatening injuries. He has since been discharged from hospital.
Police had rushed to the scene after
over Ayaan’s care. They resisted doctors’ plans to carry out brainstem tests to determine whether life support should be withdrawn, with Fowsiya recalling how they tried to extend treatment for as long as possible. “They kept insisting on doing the testing.
"When they believe someone is brain dead, they can do these tests. But if one of the senses is still active, they cannot as it’s dangerous. After they insisted on doing it once, she took a breath. They wanted to repeat it – but we got the media involved, and they didn’t.”
Doctors eventually stopped all treatment on 16 November and Ayaan died.
Fowsiya said she believes the family may have been treated differently because of their race and religion. “It was decided that I would do the talking on behalf of the family. I am a person of colour and with a hijab, and it felt like [the doctors’] demeanour totally changed when speaking to me,” she said. “I think if we were ethnically different, this would not have happened.”
Guy's and St Thomas' Trust said it was committed to treating all of its patients with dignity and respect regardless of their background.
The sisters, originally from Somalia, grew up in the Netherlands before moving to the UK, where they both pursued education. After Ayaan graduated with a first-class degree in business from London South Bank University, she, despite being the youngest, inspired both of her siblings to pursue their studies.
She was described as a caring and loving individual who adored children and often took her nieces and nephews on outings. Her excitement about becoming a mother was evident, as she talked about baby clothes and planned a gender reveal party after learning she was expecting a girl. “They were so happy when they found out,” said Fowsiya.
The family remains devastated by the loss and is desperate for answers. Fowsiya said the hospital repeatedly fell short in their care for Ayaan, describing it as “pure negligence and pure discrimination.”
They also continue to face challenges in obtaining key medical records, including brain scans, which they hope to share with consultants abroad for a second opinion.
A coroner's inquest to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths of both Ayaan and her daughter is due to take place next summer. The family has
the victim reported being attacked in a shop opposite the John The Unicorn pub.
Officers discovered him suffering life-threatening stab wound injuries to his neck and thigh.
The suspect has been described as a Black man, approximately 5ft 4ins, and aged in his 40s, with a stocky build and a short beard.
He was reportedly wearing a black jacket with wording printed on it at
The family were very close
initiated legal action against Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
A spokesperson for Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust said: “The deaths of Ayaan and her daughter are a tragedy and her family have our heartfelt
the time of the alleged offence.
Detective Constable, Jacob Ludlam, from the local investigations team, said: “We are urging anyone who may have been in Peckham Rye that evening to please think back and let us know if you saw or heard anything suspicious. Whilst our enquiries are ongoing, it appears at this stage to be an unprovoked attack.”
“The incident occurred opposite John The Unicorn pub, so if you were there
sympathies. We are fully cooperating with the ongoing legal process so are unable to comment further.”
Fowsiya said the family wants justice and accountability to ensure no other families face similar tragedies. “Until today we
believe mistakes can happen. I don’t think they do it deliberately. But I ask them to be empathetic and understanding. This was a family member. Someone to be held accountable for how we were treated. So this doesn’t happen to other families.”
that night or knew anyone that was, please get in touch with us,” he added.
“Any snippets of information could be vital to our investigation. Thank you.” People can contact police online or call 101 quoting reference 01/1168928/24. Alternatively, they can report it to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Ayaan Al Waeys tragically died in hospital on 16 November 2022
The alleged attack reportedly took place opposite a pub on Rye Lane
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duLWiCh in shoCK after oWner of 'LoveLy famiLy Business' dies in tragiC dog attaCK
By Isabel Ramirez
The dulW iCh community is in mourning after the owner of a popular dry cleaners died after being attacked by a dog.
Akif Mustaq, who owned East Dulwich Dry Cleaners on Lordship Lane, sustained injuries to his neck, windpipe, thumb and thigh as a result of the attack on Wednesday 4 December.
Tragically, the 42-year-old father-offive died the following day (December 5) in hospital.
Leanne McDonnell, 32, appeared at Barkingside Magistrates' Court (December 6) accused of owning or being in charge of the dog that attacked Mr Mustaq.
The court heard the mother-ofthree was friends with Mr Mustaq and the incident took place at her flat in Stratford.
Ms McDonnell was further charged with three counts of owning or being in charge of a dangerously out-ofcontrol dog without causing injury on 18 November, and the court heard the incidents involved the same dog.
Following the shocking news, the community in Dulwich, many of whom were Mr Mustaq's loyal customers,
expressed their condolences. Many have since been to pay their respects at the shop at 74 Lordship Lane, with cards and flowers.
George Grime has lived in the area since 1981 and said he 'can't remember a time' when the shop, which opened in 1986, wasn't there.
"Akif had worked there since he was 16," he told us. He had been there so long that, he said, 'even if you only went once a month, you were in touch with him a lot.'
George said that Mr Mustaq 'always had a smile on his face' and greeted him as 'Mr George' every time he went in to get his shirts cleaned and ironed.
"He really was the centre of the community," George added.
Another regular at the dry cleaners, Bridget Furst said: "It’s just such a horrible death - nobody deserves that horror."
She described Mr Mustaq as a 'lovely guy' who was adored locally. "We’re all very sad about it," she said. "They are an amazing family who work so hard."
Mrs Furst said the brothers would go the extra mile, going around to people's houses to collect their dry cleaning and deliver it back.
Clive Rates, who also lives in Dulwich, told us : "I’ve been in loads of times and
they were friendly and offered a great service
He went on to say that although he didn't know Mr Mustaq specifically, it was a 'lovely family business' with 'a lot of loyal customers.'
A spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police said: "Officers were called to Shirley Road in Stratford at 4:53 GMT on Wednesday after reports that a 42-year-old man had been seriously wounded.
"Mr Mustaq died in hospital and the force said the dog had been seized. Medics had spent an hour treating him in the flat before rushing him to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead."
Flowers and plants left in honour of Akif Mustaq, owner of East Dulwich Dry Cleaners
Dorney, from
By Herbie Russell
an oPPorTunisTiC rapist was apprehended after his victim managed to record the assault on her phone.
Craig Dorney, from Lewisham, took advantage of a young woman after they happened to meet getting out of separate taxis.
The 35-year-old was sentenced to seven years in prison for rape and two counts of sexual assault at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, December 12.
oPPortunistiC south London raPist foiLed after viCtim reCorded attaCK
Detective Constable James Hart hoped the sentence would bring the victim “some level of justice” after she “bravely” helped police catch the “sexual predator”.
The court heard how the 27-year-old woman had taken a taxi to Lewisham, shortly before 2am, after a night out on Saturday, June 29.
Dorney happened to be leaving another cab and the pair spoke before Dorney assaulted and raped her.
But she managed to capture part of the assault on her phone, taking a video to record their conversation.
The recording was a key piece of evidence in the case detectives would build against Dorney, who was identified and arrested within 24 hours.
Police also gathered forensic and medical evidence, from Dorney’s clothing, bedding, phone and taxi receipts.
Detectives obtained key witness statements from friends, and the two taxi drivers who had driven the two people that night.
Dorney was charged with rape and two counts of sexual assault on Sunday, July 28.
He appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday, December 2, and was found guilty of all three offences on Friday, December 6.
Detective Constable James Hart, who led the investigation for the Met, said:
“We hope this sentence brings some level of justice for the victim-survivor who bravely came forward and helped us catch her perpetrator in what must have been extremely distressing circumstances.
“We’d like to thank the victim-survivor for providing vital evidence at the start of our investigation, as well as the other
Westminster Council says £90m Oxford Street programme ‘no longer going ahead’
By Adrian Zorzut Local Democracy Reporter
WesTminsTer CiTy Council has con�irmed a £90m regeneration of oxford street is no longer going ahead as it seeks to claw back funds it has already spent Westminster City said it is finalising the ‘residual costs’ of its flagship programme, a cabinet report shows
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands the local authority has already spent £20m on the project so far. It also understands the council is trying to recover costs from City Hall, but the London authority has not said it will contribute any cash.
A spokesperson for the Mayor said: “We continue to work with Westminster City Council towards our shared vision for Oxford Street.” Westminster City Council has been contacted for further comment.
In September, Westminster City Council Leader, Councillor Adam Hug, wrote to Sadiq Khan and the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, voicing concerns over the Mayor’s plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street. The Mayor’s plan, which was announced on September 17, seeks to designate the world-famous shopping destination as a Mayoral Development Area (MDA), grabbing planning powers normally reserved for Westminster City Council.
The Mayor wants to create a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) that would have its own planning powers and be able to overrule Westminster council. There are MDCs already in place in Old Oak Common and the former Olympic Park.
At the time, Cllr Hug wrote on X: “I have written to the Deputy PM and Mayor on behalf of my administration, setting out our 10 key concerns following the recent announcement on Oxford Street pedestrianisation. We believe they must be properly addressed before any final decisions are taken.”
City Hall said the street was in need of ‘major regeneration’ in the face of competition from online retailers and out-of-town shopping centres, the closure of flagship department stores, and the prevalence of ‘candy stores’. It said these had put ‘significant strain
on Oxford Street’s attractiveness’, while tourism numbers have not fully recovered since the pandemic.
A statement by Westminster City’s Chief Executive said the council only found out about the plans a few days before their release to the public. The council had planned to spend £90m on upgrading Oxford Street, with half being paid for by Oxford Street
landowners
According to the council’s website, the scheme was ‘ready to go’ and had strong backing from businesses and local residents. It included plans to widen footpaths, improve seating, and
add more trees, other planting, lighting and clearer signage.
The council said its contractors were already on site changing traffic flows around Oxford Street in preparation for the main works that were due to start in the spring and conclude by summer 2027. Opposition leader, Cllr Paul Swaddle said: “The shutting of the Oxford Street Program is another example of how Labour-run Westminster are not ready to fight the Mayor on this scheme that is not wanted locally.”
Westminster City’s cabinet will meet to review the decision.
witnesses who provided statements.?
“Dorney is a sexual predator who targeted a vulnerable woman and I hope this case proves the Met is determined to tackle violence against women and girls, which has a significant and lasting impact on victim-survivors."
If you’ve been a victim of rape or sexual assault, charities and support agencies can offer help and guidance Rape Crisis: 08085002222 National Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 9999 Survivors UK: 0203 598 3898?info@survivorsuk. org. Samaritans: 116 123?jo@ samaritans.org
Police appeal after 'attempted knife-point robbery'
By Herbie Russell
PoliCe are appealing for help after a reported attempted knife-point robbery at new Cross railway station.
The alleged victim was travelling on a train toward New Cross station at around 10.30pm on August 23. He reportedly spotted two people acting suspiciously towards him. When he left the train and tried to raise his concerns with staff, he was reportedly approached by two men
They are alleged to have threatened him with a knife and demanded his bike. The victim was able to get to safety and the men reportedly left Officers believe the men in the CCTV images may have information that could help the investigation Anyone who recognises them, or has any other information, is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 738 of 23 August. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Henrietta Onyema by the food donation boxes outside her home
Craig
Lewisham, took advantage of a young woman after they happened to meet getting out of separate taxis
Concpet art of a pedestrianised Oxford Street released by City Hall on Sept 17 2024
Coroner's inquest hears that CamBerWeLL man ‘Wasted Last morning Begging for mediCation'
By Robert Firth
Local Democracy Reporter
a sTudenT who died from a seizure ‘wasted his last morning on earth’ begging a south london pharmacy for anti-epilepsy medication it failed to tell him it didn’t have in stock, his mother has claimed.
Henrietta Hastings told an inquest at Inner South London Coroner’s Court that her son Charlie Marriage became stressed and anxious during the three hours he spent with her at a Superdrug in Camberwell on a Saturday in June 2021 trying to get anti-epilepsy drugs. The Brunel University student, 32, died in the early hours of the following day from sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) during a seizure, while alone at his flat in Camberwell.
He had managed to find a dose of Fycompa—an anti-epilepsy drug— at his girlfriend’s house later on the Saturday, but the medication was out of date and he took a lower dose than he was usually on.
Ms Hastings told the inquest on Monday, December 9: “Charlie spent the last morning of his life begging for medication from someone [the pharmacist] who was not honest with us. If he had been honest with us, we could have gone somewhere else and got medication.
“We could have avoided that build up of stress and anxiety that was a massive trigger to Charlie. […] It was not an enjoyable morning. That morning was responsible for causing a lot of stress and anxiety to Charlie and I think he wasted his last morning on earth and that’s pretty bad.”
Ms Hastings said that she and Charlie only became aware the pharmacist didn’t have Fycompa in stock when they overheard him relay the fact to a phone operator at NHS 111 – the NHS’s urgent telephone healthcare service. She later found out the pharmacist wasn’t even able to open a computer system to access a referral for Charlie’s antiepilepsy medication from NHS 111.
Ms Hastings said: “We had no idea he [the pharmacist] couldn’t open the system. What he kept telling us was
they weren’t sending them [the referral] through. It’s one of the worst things about the whole case for us as a family.”
Ms Hastings added that she felt the pharmacist bore ‘considerable responsibility’ for shortcomings that occurred in the days before her son’s death. The inquest heard how Mr Marriage had spent two days trying to get his anti-epilepsy medication before he died on June 27, 2021.
He had received a message from NHS Test and Trace on the Thursday before his death telling him to self-isolate due to possibly coming into contact with Covid-19. Realising he would be without anti-epilepsy medication for the weekend, Mr Hastings rang his GP Waterloo Health Centre, on the Friday in
an attempt to get an emergency supply of medication to cover him for the weekend.
Ms Hastings told the hearing her son first rang the GP at around 10am on Friday, where she said he claimed to have spoken to a receptionist called Mr Vargus. She said he then called the surgery back at midday and then again a few minutes after midday because he had been cut off.
Ms Hastings said Charlie was told during his third call that he would get a call back before 4pm but never received one. He then rang the surgery a final time just after 4pm, where he was told to submit a prescription request online— which would have only been dealt with the next working day, which was the
following Monday.
Mr Vargus, who has since left the surgery, told the inquest he only remembered speaking to Charlie during the 4pm call—adding that there was nothing on patient records to suggest the student had rang earlier.
The pharmacist Charlie and his mum spoke to on the Saturday before he died, Charlie’s doctor and NHS England are due to give their evidence to the inquest on Tuesday, December 10.
On hearing that the pharmacist, who is now based in Wales, planned to not attend the inquest in person and rather give evidence via video link, Ms Hastings shouted: “This is just ridiculous. Does the man not know how to operate the train system?
New charity shop opens in
“What’s the matter with him? […] It just makes me really cross. […] He ruined Charlie’s last half day of his life. He can’t even get on a train. There’s people who are much more in need… than a locum pharmacist. I will take it as an outright insult if he’s not here in person and I think that goes for the rest of the family”
Clare Gooch, a solicitor from Switalskis which is representing Charlie’s family: said: “This has been an extremely difficult and distressing time for Charlie’s family, who are still coming to terms with their loss. They hope that the inquest will provide greater insight into the events leading up to Charlie’s death.” The inquest is being presided over by coroner Xavier Mooyaart.
Dulwich with
£100 shopping spree giveaway
By Isabel Ramirez
a ne W charity shop has opened its doors in east dulwich, offering locals the chance to win a £100 shopping spree while supporting a good cause.
To celebrate the launch of the Fight for Sight shop, anyone who donates a bag of clothes—ladieswear or menswear—by Tuesday 31 December will be entered into the prize draw. Winners will have the opportunity to refresh their wardrobe with high-quality pre-loved clothes and accessories from the store, up to a maximum spend of £100.
The first 50 shoppers to visit the store will also receive a complimentary
Fight for Sight tote bag with their purchases.
Fight for Sight, a leading UK charity funding research into the prevention and treatment of vision loss aims to make a tangible difference through initiatives like this.
Donations to the shop on Lordship Lane not only support their cuttingedge research but also help fund community activities, such as blind sport and nature outings for people with visual impairments, which are proven to boost mental health.
Phil Beaven, Director of Retail for Fight for Sight, encouraged the community to get involved, saying: “Declutter your wardrobe this December to help fight vision loss,
and you’ll have the chance to win a brand-new wardrobe worth up to £100. Our friendly team can help you choose from our selection of beautiful pre-loved and vintage items as you get ready for the festive season.”
In addition to donations, Fight for Sight is calling for local volunteers to support the shop’s operations. Volunteering offers the chance to contribute to a meaningful cause, develop valuable skills, and connect with new people.
The Fight for Sight shop is located at 124 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, SE22 8HU.
To apply or learn more about volunteering opportunities, visit fightforsight.org.uk.
Charlie Marriage
Photo
disaBLed Woman has not Left her Borough fLat in 2 years as Just 14 stePs seParate her from freedom
By Herbie Russell
a disaBled woman has not left her Borough �lat in two years because her wheelchair cannot get down the fourteen steps outside her home.
Diane White, aged in her sixties, has spent a year begging Southwark Council to up her housing priority but encountered delay after delay.
Ms White, a wheelchair user, said: “It makes me feel very sad a lot of the time and frustrated and just hopeless really.”
She added: “I can’t get out so I haven't had any sunshine or fresh air in two years and haven’t got a balcony.”
Her predicament is “really hard, emotional, very difficult, emotionally draining,” she said.
Andy Sutton, her former partner who cares for her, said he fears for Diane’s safety.
“If there was a fire I can get her outside the door but there’s absolutely no way I could get her outside the building,” he said.
“We’ve got fire alarms everywhere and we could be warned of a fire but we
wouldn’t be able to do anything.”
The pair, who have a daughter together, hope to get her a ground-floor flat.
They say Diane is only Band 4 priority for housing relocation - the lowest possible rung.
Given she has degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis and is highly immobile, they believe she should be given a higher-priority band.
They say they submitted medical records and a social worker report to Southwark Council on November 23, 2023.
Southwark Council reportedly reassured them of a response within 28 days.
The council reportedly responded four months later and only to request documents that had already been submitted.
The family resubmitted the documents in May 2024 and were reportedly once again told to expect a response within 28 days.
In September, four months later, Southwark Council reportedly asked for an authorisation later which would allow Andy to advocate on Diane’s
as well as other forms.
With no response since then, the News contacted Southwark Council in December to request an update.
Since our enquiries, Andy says Diane has been moved to Band 2 priority which he says is still not high enough.
Cllr Sarah King, Cabinet Member for Council Homes, said: “We sincerely apologise for the delays in reassessing Ms White’s housing banding and fully acknowledge the challenges she has faced. Her case is currently being reviewed as a priority, and we are liaising with our independent medical advisor to expedite the process.
"We will ensure that Mrs. White receives an update very shortly. We’re in the process of developing a personal emergency evacuation plan, to lay out plans to evacuate the building or reach a place of safety in the event of an emergency.
“While demand for our housing services remains exceptionally high, we have taken steps to address delays by increasing staff capacity and streamlining processes to better support residents."
Museum offering £2 tickets to locals
By Herbie Russell
a roTherhiThe museum has cut ticket prices by 88 per cent for locals in a push to get more families through the doors.
The Brunel Museum, which showcases the life and work of the world-famous engineering family will offer £2 tickets to residents of SE16 and SE8, from January 18, 2025.
For just a couple of bob, families can book self-guided visits or guided tourspreviously priced up to £16.50.
To prove their local, visitors simply have to bring documentation with their name and address.
SE16 and SE8 cover most of Bermondsey, Deptford and Rotherhithe. This price will be the same whether booked online or paid on the day.
The Brunel Museum said: “We’re very excited to be able to welcome our local communities with this offer, and
Mum of two disabled kids unable to live with them after she was housed in flat with no wheelchair access
By Robert Firth Local Democracy Reporter
a homeless mum was unable to live with her two disabled kids for over a year and a half after a south london council housed her in a �lat that wasn’t wheelchair accessible.
The Local Government Ombudsman (LGO), which deals with complaints about local authorities, has ordered Lambeth Council to pay the woman at least £15,000 in compensation.
The mum-of-three, known only as Ms X, moved into the temporary accommodation, a maisonette in an unspecified outer London borough, in February 2023.
Her two eldest kids, known only as A and B in the LGO decision dated October, couldn’t stay at the property due to steps and flights of stairs leading to nearly all the rooms.
The siblings, who both have significant disabilities and special educational needs, had to remain at a residential special school, which is outside of London but near to their mum’s temporary accommodation.
The children were unable even to stay with Ms X for short breaks during the weekends and school holidays because they couldn’t get in the maisonette.
In its report, the LGO said it had identified ‘serious failings’ in the way the council had considered Ms X’s and her family’s needs.
Despite Ms X asking via a solicitor that the council review the suitability of the temporary accommodation in February 2023, the LGO said the council had failed to respond to the request.
“The council’s evidence shows a systemic delay in making review decisions. This service failure will have a significant impact on many other homeless applicants and their
representatives,” the LGO added.
A ‘housing needs assessment’ for the family sent to the LGO by Lambeth as part of its investigation in March incorrectly said that the two eldest kids weren’t living with Miss X because they were in hospital.
The LGO described the assessment as ‘inadequate’ and ordered the council to review and correct it.
The report added that there was no evidence that Lambeth considered or responded to serious concerns raised by A and B’s social worker in December 2023 about the emotional impact that separation from their mum was having on the siblings.
The LGO said the council had a ‘duty’ under the Children’s Act 2004 to promote the welfare of the children.
“Furthermore Article 8 of the Human Rights Act [the right to a family life] is clearly engaged considering the social worker’s statement that the failure to provide suitable accommodation for all the family members is causing psychological harm and interference with their family life,” the LGO added. The council was ordered to pay Ms X £350 per month backdated to February 2023 until it rehouses her in suitable accommodation, as well as a £3,000 lump sum to recognise the harm caused to the two eldest children.
Lambeth must also pay the woman £4,750 for avoidable financial losses due to storage costs she has incurred and £250 per month for storage expenses going forward, until she is rehoused in a suitable property. The council has also agreed to apologise to Miss X and her solicitor.
A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “We acknowledge the findings of the Ombudsman and have agreed to carry out the recommended actions.”
behalf,
Diane says she hasn’t had ‘any sunshine or fresh air in two years’. (Left)
Fourteen steps separate Diane from the outside world .(inset)
Visitors at The Brunel Museum
man Who emBaLmed and Buried son in BaCK garden
JaiLed aLongside his Wife
By Herbie Russell
A
PECKHAM-RAISED
man and his wife, who 'embalmed' and buried their neglected son in a back garden grave, have been jailed.
It has been reported that Tai Yasharahyalah was raised in Peckham and Nigeria. The 42-year-old and his wife, Naiyahmi Yasharahyalah, 43, were sentenced to 24-and-a-half years and 19-and-a-half years imprisonment respectively for causing their son Abiyah’s death and perverting the course of justice.
The couple, who created a bizarre cultural code from their Birmingham home, forced a restricted vegan diet on their son, who likely died between
December 2019 and January 2020.
His underdeveloped body was found to have suffered from severe malnutrition, rickets, stunted growth, bone deformities, fractures, and severe dental decay.
Senior Investigator Detective Inspector Joe Davenport said the “heartbreaking” case revealed the couple had “failed to provide the most basic of care” and then “hid” their son from the authorities.
Abiyah would have been roughly three years and nine months old when he died, although his death was not registered as the parents believed it was not part of their culture.
His death came to light after detectives reviewed videos showing Abiyah, posted in 2016, some entitled “Like Father, Like Son,” picturing Tai and a young child.
When questioned about their son’s existence, the pair said Abiyah had been unwell and had died.
The garden of their former home in Handsworth, Birmingham, underwent a forensic archaeological examination, and the remains were found in an 80cm grave.
Jurors heard that he died from a respiratory illness which was worsened by a "restricted" vegan diet.
Instead of contacting the NHS, the couple had embalmed and buried their son.
As well as bone defects, including a painful condition where bones fail to fuse following a fracture, his body was found to have had poor immunity.
His body was “severely smaller” than it
should have been at his age, DI Davenport said.
The pair had been evicted from their Handsworth home in early 2022 and went to live in a shipping container in south west England.
The couple were living in a caravan in Somerset when they were arrested on December 9, 2022.
They were subsequently charged with causing or allowing the death of a child, neglect, and perverting the course of justice.
DI Joe Davenport said: “In Abiyah’s short life, his parents failed to provide the most basic of care to him – namely, adequate food and medical care. Instead, they hid him from the authorities and prioritised their cultural practices and
beliefs over his well-being.
“During the trial, we have heard medical experts’ evidence that Abiyah would have been in significant pain, not only with tooth decay but also with mending bone fractures that had not been medically assessed or properly treated.
“The pair rejected Western medicine, so Abiyah was never checked in his formative years like most children. His parents claimed that they were not aware of him being malnourished. However, when his body was examined, it was found to be severely smaller than he should have been at his age.”
DI Davenport continued: “This has been a heartbreaking case for all those involved in the investigation. I’m glad that justice has been served for Abiyah.”
Over 200 stalkers to be fitted with GPS tags on their release
By Noah Vickers Local Democracy Reporter
more Than 200 stalking offenders in London are to be �itted with gPs tags on their release from prison, under a new pilot scheme launched by sadiq khan to reduce re-offending.
The new scheme, which runs up to March 2026 and has been developed following “close consultation with victims and survivor groups across the capital”, will tag individuals who have served custodial sentences for stalking offences with a tracking device under strict licence conditions.
According to City Hall, the scheme will work in partnership with the Ministry of Justice’s GPS programme and will also include stalkers who receive community sentences – meaning that for the first time, all types of stalking behaviour will be eligible for GPS monitoring.
Mr Khan said: “Stalking is an horrendous crime that can have a long-lasting impact on victims, who we know are more likely to be young women. I’m pleased to launch my new GPS stalking pilot today
which will play a key role in preventing reoffending and safeguarding victims.
“The £5.7 million GPS tagging programme has been working to ensure perpetrators of violence change their behaviour, not victims and survivors.
The results we’ve seen so far show that GPS tagging is effectively dissuading individuals from reoffending, but also quickly detecting those offenders who breach their licence conditions and could pose a risk to their victims.
“I will continue to do everything within my power to ensure that ending violence against women and girls is treated with the utmost urgency – both by our police and society as a whole, as we continue to build a safer London for everyone.”
News of the pilot project was welcomed by Claire Waxman, London’s independent victims’ commissioner, who said it will “allow probation services and the police to effectively monitor stalkers and provide an extra layer of security to victims”.
She added: “My London Stalking Review has highlighted the scale of work needed to tackle stalking and I will continue to work closely with police, probation services and the wider criminal justice system to ensure this remains a priority.
“It’s incredibly important that stalking victims get the support and protection they require and today’s announcement is a significant step in the right direction.”
City Hall reported that the latest data from the mayor’s knife crime tagging programme shows 67 per cent of tag wearers successfully completed their period of monitoring up to a maximum period of six months. A third (33 per cent) had been recalled to prison – with GPS tracking data “playing a significant role in the detection of non-compliance and new offences in recalled cases”.
The mayor’s team added that his GPS domestic abuse tagging pilot has also tagged 707 high-risk individuals released from prison since 2019, and analysis from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) found “improved risk management, improved protection for victims and more effective enforcement of licence conditions when these are broken”.
The announcement of the new pilot project comes during this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence –an annual international campaign starting on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and running until Human Rights Day on December 10.
James Timpson, the Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, said: “Tagging has a crucial part to play in keeping the public safe and this extra investment will help the Probation Service keep an even more watchful eye on stalkers in the capital.
“Making our streets safer is central to this government’s Plan for Change, and these tags will help us enforce restrictions on stalkers’ movements so those who try to reoffend face further punishment and victims can feel safer going about their lives.”
Mr Khan’s office said he is also investing an initial £50,000 to help ensure the management of stalking cases on the new pilot and greater information sharing with partners, including the Met Police, London Probation, the NHS and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust.
Tai and his wife, Naiyahmi Yasharahyalah, were jailed for 24-and-a-half years and 19-anda-half years respectively
Abiyah was found to have suffered severe malnutrition, rickets, anaemia, stunted growth, bone malformation and deformity
Abiyah’s body was found in an 80cm grave
London mayor Sadiq Khan
Claire Waxman
south London tenant Caught in a 10-year BattLe against ‘unfair’ serviCe Charges
By Harrison Galliven Local Democracy Reporter
a souTh london tenant locked in a decade-long battle with his landlord says his service charges double ‘without any reason as to why’.
Wimbledon resident Waqar Basit has been withholding his service charge payments for over 10 years, arguing that his landlord’s ‘whole reasoning is just wrong.’
Clarion Housing has insisted in response that it’s performing its duties by maintaining the estate and is not out to make a profit, while also claiming that it has addressed Waqar’s concerns and strives to deliver the best value for money for its tenants.
Service charges are a payment made by a leaseholder or tenant to a landlord for the services and maintenance of a building. Yet, according to Clarion Housing tenants, these payments haven’t resulted in better repairs.
In some cases, residents complained of seeing these bills double without any justification as to why. Waqar is one such resident who claims to have experienced ‘shock bills’.
Waqar has lived at Moffat Court in Wimbledon for the last twenty years. However, for the past ten years, he has been locked in a dispute with Clarion, the UK’s biggest housing association and landlord for most of the court’s 62 flats.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that his bills had consistently risen while living there, but that his continued payment of them had not resulted in any meaningful changes on the estate. Eventually, following years of requests for further information justification of the charges, Waqar began to withhold his service charges.
He told the LDRS: “Every year, I have been questioning the charges, and they have not provided me with evidence There is never any justification, their whole reasoning is just wrong.”
Waqar was first taken to court by Clarion in 2015 over the non-payment of service charges, but this action faltered when they failed to provide evidence justifying the charges
Waqar said: “When Clarion couldn’t provide evidence for why they were charging them, they just threw out the case, and all the charges were waived.
“However, because I had made some payments, Clarion waived the balance instead of paying the year’s charges. Then I told them you can’t just waive the balance, you need to waive the full charges and refund the amount.
"They did that with some, but where I had argued for some refunds in 2013 and 2012, they didn’t refund me, which amounted to £355. Altogether, it was about £1000.
“They didn’t acknowledge it, and every year, they kept billing me as if my account was zero instead of in credit. Eventually, one of the staff sent me an email saying my balance was £1700, estimated to be over £2000.
“So, they said they’d waive the £1700, but I said you need to waive the actual amount, not the estimate. That got them in hot water, and they said they’d refund it, but they haven’t yet refunded it.”
Waqar has documented the allegedly poor state of repair and cleaning around
the estate. In one instance, he told the LDRS how he photographed a mark he had made in the dusty windows, which was still there a month later, despite his sending it to Clarion.
During a visit to the court earlier this year, the LDRS noticed outdoor lights that were on even during the day. According to Waqar, these lights remain unfixed and continue to waste electricity that is ultimately billed back to residents. A South London tenant locked in a decade-long battle with his landlord says his service charges double ‘without any reason as to why’.
Wimbledon resident Waqar Basit has been withholding his service charge payments for over 10 years, arguing that his landlord’s ‘whole reasoning is just wrong.’
Clarion Housing has insisted in response that it’s performing its duties by maintaining the estate and is not out to make a profit, while also claiming that it has addressed Waqar’s concerns and strives to deliver the best value for money for its tenants.
Service charges are a payment made by a leaseholder or tenant to a landlord for the services and maintenance of a building. Yet, according to Clarion Housing tenants, these payments haven’t resulted in better repairs.
In some cases, residents complained of seeing these bills double without any justification as to why. Waqar is one such resident who claims to have experienced ‘shock bills’.
Waqar has lived at Moffat Court in Wimbledon for the last twenty years. However, for the past ten years, he has been locked in a dispute with Clarion, the UK’s biggest housing association and landlord for most of the court’s 62 flats.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that his bills had consistently risen while living there, but that his continued payment of them had not resulted in any meaningful changes on the estate. Eventually, following years of requests for further information justification of the charges, Waqar began to withhold his service charges.
He told the LDRS: “Every year, I have been questioning the charges, and they have not provided me with evidence.
“There is never any justification, their whole reasoning is just wrong.”
Waqar was first taken to court by Clarion in 2015 over the non-payment of service charges, but this action faltered when they failed to provide evidence justifying the charges.
Waqar said: “When Clarion couldn’t provide evidence for why they were charging them, they just threw out the case, and all the charges were waived.
“However, because I had made some payments, Clarion waived the balance instead of paying the year’s charges. Then I told them you can’t just waive the balance, you need to waive the full charges and refund the amount.
“They did that with some, but where I had argued for some refunds in 2013 and 2012, they didn’t refund me, which amounted to £355. Altogether, it was about £1000.
“They didn’t acknowledge it, and every year, they kept billing me as if my account was zero instead of in credit. Eventually, one of the staff sent me an email saying my balance was £1700, estimated to be over £2000.
“So, they said they’d waive the £1700, but I said you need to waive the actual amount, not the estimate. That got them in hot water, and they said they’d refund it, but they haven’t yet refunded it.”
Waqar has documented the allegedly poor state of repair and cleaning around the estate. In one instance, he told the LDRS how he photographed a mark he had made in the dusty windows, which was still there a month later, despite his sending it to Clarion.
During a visit to the court earlier this year, the LDRS noticed outdoor lights that were on even during the day. According to Waqar, these lights remain unfixed and continue to waste electricity that is ultimately billed back to residents.
While some repairs have been completed on the estate, Waqar and other residents insist that bills continue to rise and continue to lack further detail as to why.
He told the LDRS: “We get bills and there are things added in which we’ve never had with the word cost next to it.
“We are not told why these services are needed in the first place when they haven’t been provided for years before. It’s just wrong.”
what haS CL arIon SaId In rESPonSE?
A Clarion spokesperson said: “Like all social landlords, we levy service charges to cover the costs of maintaining a building and communal spaces. These charges are levied to cover costs, not to make a profit.
“We work to ensure services that are charged for present the best value for money for our residents. In some instances, the actual costs of works that are completed exceed what we estimated they would cost.
“We are currently reviewing service charge variances in Merton in order to be able to provide assurance to residents.
We will engage with residents on the outcome of this work
“We have contacted the office of Paul Kohler MP to offer a meeting to discuss service charges in his constituency.
“All credit due to Mr Basit was applied to his customer account at the time his complaint was resolved. We have spoken with Mr Basit, and responded to his enquiries as and when he has raised them with us.”
what’S haPPEnIng In ParLIamEnt?
These rising charges have drawn the attention of Wimbledon’s new Lib Dem MP, Paul Kohler, who noted that Merton leaseholders have been hit with a 48% increase between the estimated and final service charge bills issued by Clarion Housing Association in 2023/24.
The data, obtained by Merton’s Liberal Democrats, shows that, on average, residents were handed a bill £269 higher than the original estimate. In some cases, such as on the High Path Estate in Wimbledon, the difference was even more dramatic, with a whole £1,237 between
the initial estimate and the final charge. The figures have raised alarm among local residents, with at least one tenant facing a final bill more than £500 above their estimate in 24 of Merton’s 34 estates. Elsewhere, the report found that 43% of residents who have complained about their service charges are still waiting for a resolution.
Kohler raised this issue with the Minister for Housing and Planning in Parliament last week. He called for the Government
to grant the Housing Ombudsman the power to investigate leaseholders’ complaints and demand compensation from landlords for what he described as unfair service charges.
Currently, leaseholders can only challenge service charges through the costly and complex First-Tier Tribunal process. In response, the Minister acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that the Government is looking to provide more protection for leaseholders facing unaffordable increases.
Following the Government’s response, he told the LDRS: “Leaseholders deserve transparency and fairness, not shock bills. Landlords must urgently improve their processes to provide estimates that are accurate and reliable.
“I’m relieved that the Minister shared my deep concerns about the pressure caused by rising variable service charges. The Government must now act to empower the Ombudsman so that residents have a proper route to hold landlords to account for these irresponsible practices.”
Waqar Basit has lived at Moffat Court for 20 years Credit: Harrison Galliven
Most of the communal lights are being left on 24/7 at Moffat Court Credit: Harrison Galliven
Paul Kohler is the Lib Dem MP for Wimbledon Credit: Merton Lib Dems
By Harrison Galliven
Local Democracy Reporter
a Croydon primary school has retained its outstanding ofsted rating after inspectors praised how it includes pupils’ families in the community.
In its recent inspection, conducted throughout late October, Ofsted agreed the school had taken effective action to maintain the standards.
During its recent inspection, Chestnut Park Primary School, on St James’s Road in West Croydon, maintained top marks across all assessment areas. The report notes how staff set clear expectations for pupils’ behaviour and attitudes, fostering an environment where children excel.
The school is also praised for its strong sense of community, with families playing an active role through events like the annual summer carnival. Ofsted inspectors found this celebration brought together diverse student-based music, dance, and food, creating a vibrant atmosphere for pupils and their families.
Inspectors cited extracurricular activities as one of the school’s key strengths. Performing arts students were said to benefit from visits to the Royal Albert Hall and the school’s rap club.
The school was said to have improved its support for students whose first language is not English.
SEND students are also supported at the school, with inspectors noting teachers made adaptations to the curriculum to ensure learning was catered to each student’s needs.
Inspectors said: “Leaders swiftly identify and address gaps in pupils’ knowledge. As a result, pupils in the school learn the curriculum well, although pupils who left the school at the end of Year 6 in 2023 and 2024 had not had time to benefit from this approach.”
The report added: “Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain.
Leaders teach pupils about how to stay safe and healthy, including how to notice their feelings and look after their mental health. For example, pupils are taught how social media could affect their mental health.”
Primary With strong musiC LinKs and a raP CLuB retains its outstanding rating
Safeguarding the school’s 598 pupils, aged 4-11, was also found to be effective. However, inspectors from the government’s education watchdog also outlined a number of areas where they felt the school must make improvements. It found that teachers do not ‘routinely support pupils to revisit the prior knowledge’ they learnt as part of the school’s ambitious curriculum. It read: “As a result, pupils sometimes struggle to recall prior learning, including important vocabulary, and use it to help them to understand new ideas deeply.”
Furthermore, the school was called to ‘ensure that teachers check children’s learning systematically in the early years
and correct any misunderstandings swiftly so that gaps do not open up in their knowledge’.
After the report was published yesterday (December 5), Executive Headteacher Rachel Jacob and Head of School Sarah Rumbol expressed their pride in the school’s successes. They said: “We are exceptionally proud of the whole school and the achievements that have been recognised during the inspection, particularly the positive attitudes our children show towards learning every day and the partnership with our parents, carers and wider community.”
Chestnut Park Primary School opened
in 2015. It is one of 23 primary and secondary schools within the GLF Schools group, an academy trust based in the South East.
The school received an “Outstanding” rating following its inaugural Ofsted inspection in June 2018.
As of September 2024, Ofsted no longer issues state schools with an
overall grade such as Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate; however, colleges and other further education establishments still get a oneword overall grade. Schools, meanwhile, will get a rating in four sub-categories: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
All 35 flats in new Beckenham development available for social rent
By Joe Coughlan Local Democracy Reporter
a neW affordable housing block in Beckenham has been given the green light by Bromley Council, with each of the 35 �lats being available for social rent.
The scheme’s approval follows news earlier this week that the number of families in temporary accommodation in the borough is nearing 2,000.
The new development will be constructed on a car park beside the Spa at Beckenham leisure centre.
The plans will see the existing building, Lewis House, and three temporary office spaces on the Beckenham Road site being knocked down. It will also include a work space on the ground floor beneath the flats and a community garden alongside a children’s play space.
A report from earlier this week said there were 1,930 households in temporary accommodation in Bromley at the end of September. Within this figure, 1,562 were said to be in hotels or similar nightly paid placements.
Alicia Egan, Head of Regeneration
for the council, said at a meeting on December 12 that temporary accommodation was one of the authority’s largest revenue pressures.
The council officer also confirmed that the new homes would be prioritised for families on Bromley Council’s own housing waiting list.
The application received 92 objections from residents. Local Garnet Frost criticised the scheme at the meeting after Bromley Experts by Experience, a local charity supporting disabled individuals, was asked to leave Lewis House to allow the scheme to proceed.
Mr Frost said: “The service for disabled people had been using Lewis House from 1987 all the way up to Christmas last year when they were ruthlessly evicted. They weren’t consulted. They have been treated as if they don’t exist.”
Joanne Munn, former CEO of the charity, previously told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the charity was now based on North Street in Bromley town centre. She claimed that the council had formerly advised the charity there were no plans to build on the Lewis House site.
A Bromley Council spokesperson responded at the time to say no promise had ever been made that the land was not a suitable site for social housing They added that they understood the charity’s disappointment but that the council planned to run a much improved and
upgraded service for local disabled people.
Labour Councillor Josh King, ward councillor for Clock House, said at the meeting last night that the history of the site and the nature of the previous tenants were not planning objections. Council documents said Lewis House is currently being used as a temporary library while Beckenham Library is being refurbished.
Councillors at the meeting generally felt there was enough local parking available to mitigate the 40 spaces that would be lost through the scheme. However, Conservative Councillor Simon Fawthrop cited his discontent with the lack of parking spaces planned for the new development, aside from the five spots reserved for Blue Badge holders. All other members in attendance voted in approval of the project.
Conservative Councillor Alexa Michael said: “I think this is a good application. It makes sufficient use of the available space. It’s not too tall, it’s not too bulky. We very badly need social housing for rent so this will help to meet the demand in the borough for people who need it.”
Chestnut Park Primary is part of the GLF Schools Academy
A CGI of the new housing block planned for the Beckenham site
what’s on
a Big Bang – an e xplosion of artworks
ConneCT 24 is rod kitson’s latest exhibition at the gallery space that seems to be turning more people into artists than art schools. it is this year’s anything-goes open exhibition to bring people together, writes Michael Holland.
At the recent launch I was as impressed with the multitude of variety on show as I was with the quality of the work, and I wondered how Kitson managed to work out a system for hanging almost 300 artworks in his small space, plus the many submissions that can be viewed online: ‘It’s quite overwhelming when I get all the artworks brought in, because it looks like there is so much work, and it makes the space look so small. Even though I have done it before, I have this anxiety that I am not going to be able to fit it all in.’
He waited for the next question but I knew he had more: ‘This was the most artworks I’ve ever squeezed in here before - and in all different mediums. The majority are 2D work, like paintings and drawings; plenty of abstract work, collages, landscapes, and some stunning fashion works.’
His Art of Isolation gallery has worked with a charity this yearNew Art Studio, a therapeutic arts organisation for refugees - so some artists have donated artworks for sale that will help the cause.
The gallery is also continuing its sterling community work by giving over exhibition space to Bacon’s College sixth form, who have submitted an eclectic collection
of collage, sculpture, textiles and paintings.
There is kind of a thematic grouping of painting: a landscape wall, a portrait area, and sculptures as the centrepiece of the room, plus all the rest that come together in the space to create a very satisfying completeness. Rod said he had hung the big works at the top of
the wall with the smaller artworks emanating from those: ‘I think of it like a Big Bang – an explosion of smaller artworks coming out from a centre point,’ he emphasises like a Professor Brian Cox for Bermondsey.
To get the real experience of the Connect 24 ethos you can go online and read what each artist as written
about how they have felt connected, and what that means to their art*. I asked how that worked and Rod replied, ‘In a wider, more tangible sense it has been about connecting people to each other, artist to artist, person to person.’
I suddenly thought I was in a field with and 20,000 people, but Rod see
enough in my eyes to carry on: ‘The opening night was crazy, more than 100 people came through the door. Lots of connection, excitement…and heat generated! I should have opened the back door to let some air in!’ I said, ‘Nice one, Geezer,’ (and that’s as far as the conversation went…) I saw a few red stickers, so people are buying, and there are several art stocking fillers for sale but Rod Kitson deals in reality: ‘People are feeling the pinch and buying art is a luxury, which I guess is one of the first things that people would tighten up on. I love art, but its nutritional value isn’t great when compared to a weekly shop.’ Rod Kitson uses art to bring people together, as therapy, as communication and to learn. I asked what he has got from his latest venture and he’s learnt a lot. Next year he says, ‘I will give myself more time and be better at delegating!’
For me, art has many values. It’s therapeutic, informative, educational, aesthetic and we should all have it in our lives in any form. Some people can buy it, others can see it for free in the street and many galleries. Go and see Connect 24 for free and I guarantee you will see something you like.
Connect 24, The Art of Isolation, 47 Upper Floor, Surrey Quays Shopping Centre, Redriff Road, London, SE16 7LL. Until January 3rd.
'The m assive Tragedy of madame Bovary’, which opened last week at southwark Playhouse, has a very misleading title. instead of tragedy this highly unusual take on one of literature's great stories offers some rather surreal festive fun and slapstick frolics, writes Katie Kelly.
In both the original novel and this adaptation, the young Emma Bovary dreams of escape from her poor and provincial existence. At first the smalltown doctor, Charles Bovary, looks like the perfect means of fulfilling her romantic dreams, a ticket out of ‘dullsville’, but this story is a tragedy which rules out a ‘happy ever after’ ending. A succession of other men fail to deliver the goods and leave her more despondent and deeper in debt until the only option appears to be to ‘exit stage left’ with the help of some poison.
Perhaps that paragraph should have come with s spoiler alert, but the audience seemed to have mostly read the book and were intrigued to see how it could be cheered up. So how does a tragedy become a comedy? First with the addition of a large cast
of disturbingly lifelike stuffed rats; bit players in the huge new twist in the tale. Perhaps the rat catchers, or ‘pest control executives’ arrival in town might cause an arsenic shortage and avert disaster. Well you will have to go along to find out.
The cast of four work hard for their keep. The pace of the play is unrelenting, and costume changes are impressively speedy and creative. The audience are often appealed to and involved in a way that adds to the fun. In amongst the physical comedy and terrible magic tricks, there are some poignant moments. Georgia Nicholson, who plays Emma, shows impressive emotional range. Darker elements of the original story, which was a satire of its age, do get a look in. The ending is genuinely clever and well executed. If panto is not your thing but you are in the market for some festive theatrical cheer, then this might be for you.
Southwark Playhouse Borough, 77-85 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6BD until January 11th.
Admission: £28, £22.50.
Booking: southwarkplayhouse.co.uk0207 407 0234
Photo by Tanya Pabaru
mill deal madness and southern skulduggery
aFTer TWo pantos in recent days i had to snap out of ‘oh yes it is’ mode for The little Foxes, the lillian Hellman classic from the 1930s which will not feel like the �inal part of a seasonal trilogy, that’s for sure, writes Michael Holland.
But when Leo Hubbard (Stanley Morgan) slumped to the floor during the party scene, just a few minutes in, those who did not know the play thought this was scripted and half-laughed as the rest of the cast ignored him and carried on drinking. When Regina(Anne-Marie Duff) looked in horror and asked if there was a doctor in the house and two women leapt from the stalls to the stage we knew this was serious.
Almost an hour later Lyndsey Turner, the director, pronounced Stanley fit and well and we began again.
The Hubbard Clan - Ben (Mark Bonnar), Oscar (Steffan Rhodri) and Regina (Duff giving a great performance as a woman who really has to fight her corner) - have earnt their money by making black folk pay over the top for goods for many years and now want to consolidate their connection to the old South by buying cotton fields, and to the Giddens family by making a joint deal that involves Horace Giddens (John Light) who is already in a loveless marriage with Regina Hubbard.
The terminally ill Horace, though, is off
in a rest home so they need him back to put up the rest of the money to have a mill built by their cotton fields. Regina, who realises she has leverage by being connected to the now very important Giddens’ money, asks for a bigger share. She was right and Oscar, being the weaker brother, has to take a hit to his share being reduced.
While this is going down the Hubbards are also planning to marry Oscar’s son Leo off to Regina’s daughter Alexandra (Eleanor Worthington-Cox) - a young couple who cannot stand each other.
Horace, angry at being brought back, and not keen on the Hubbards’ matchmaking and skulduggery, refuses the Mill Deal so they ‘borrow’ the funds from him via Leo who works at the bank that looks after the family money.
Horace, with only Alexandra and his black staff (Andrea Davy and Freddie MacBruce) on his side, makes sure that when he dies the Hubbards will be left with only misery in his will, while house keeper Addie and his daughter will be well looked after.
The Little Foxes is a tad wordy and stays in one room, but we get a real sense of the U.S. South and how money begets greed, and how they kept their money and families close. The casual and inherent racism jars, as does the expectation that women were second class and could
the panto that has everything
Photo by Ryan Dinham
the performances were near flawless
be beaten by husbands. Birdie(Anna Madeley) was bullied and beaten by Oscar who compensated his weakness in a man’s world by ill-treating his wife.
The Little Foxes was, oddly, given a midcentury upgrade in decor and costume but the areas it covers are as depressing to audiences now as they would have been when first produced; it highlights all that was wrong in Western society at the turn of the 20th century, and I am not sure why we still need to drag that world up and on to a stage.
Best line was when the Hubbards were discussing the arranged marriage of Regina and Oscar’s children: ‘Our grandparents were first cousins,’ says Regina, ‘Now look at us!’ We did and we see the same in the selfishness of today’s rich.
Star of the show? Stanley Morgan, of course. Without him recovering there would not have been any good ol’ boys beating their wives and robbing each other. Hence, the big names brought the young actor front and centre for the final bows, which is as it should be. Bravo.
Young Vic, 66 The Cut, Waterloo, London SE1 8LZ until 8th February. Times: Monday - Saturday, 7.30pm; Wednesday & Saturday matinees, 2.30pm. Admission: £12 - £59. Booking: www.youngvic.org
here We were at probably south london’s biggest panto with some big names on board for snow White and the seven dwarves, where the Magni�icent Seven were actually in attendance to look after our damsel in distress, unlike a production i once saw with no dwarves and their lines just noises off in the distance, writes Michael Holland.
The Seven appeared to great applause and introduced the show to us before Gareth Gates (The Prince) came on and made a joke about stuttering to a shocked Snow White(Laura Emmitt).
Muddles(Simon Fielding) was next up with his medley of jokes that had a hit rate of 4 out of 10, which is perfect for panto as the other 6 went down well with the many kids in the house.
But, personally, I come to see the Baddie and this year it is Britt Lenting as Queen
a musiCal satire about musicals, at the centre of which is a musical love letter to adolf hitler is not the �irst show that would come to mind in the midsts of the festive season. however, at the menier Chocolate Factory, Patrick marber directs a new production of The Producers, writes Christopher Peacock.
The classic 1967 film got its musical adaptation in 2001 and it is this Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan book that Marber sticks faithfully to. When Max Bialystock (Andy Nyman) and Leo Bloom (Marc Antolin) discover that with some creative accounting they could make more money with a Broadway disaster than a success, this show really gets on the road. They unearth Springtime for Hitler, a sure-fire flop of a musical, and when engaging failing director Roger De Bris (Trevor Ashley) their plan can surely not fail. However, things backfire when the gay romp of a musical becomes an overnight sensation.
With Marber’s production there are many successes. What stands out is that great comic writing does hold up when presented well. Mel Brooks' still wins audiences with the humour and oneliners he is famous for. Satire can fade and wane over time, audience tastes and what may have been shocking and
Dragonella, whose first number, I Put A Spell On You, ensured future boos every time she appeared with her accompanying darkness. And she got no change out of her truth-telling mirror(Dr Ranj) who continually told her that she was not the fairest in the land and that her chances of marrying the Prince and becoming Queen of Bromley were negligible. She was angry. We were ecstatic.
To show off his Strictly skills Dr Ranj had a dance off with Muddles, which was a first half highlight, as was the entry of the dwarves at their home in the forest, but the random flying motorbike that appeared at the end of Act One and never to be seen again was jaw-dropping. As the lights came up we all looked at each other and mouthed, ‘How did they do that?!’
The second half provided some great business with four young people on the stage, a few prosecco-fueled gigglers in the stalls, and Queen Dragonella joking
taboo 50-plus years ago change, but the show still has moments that certainly cut through the gaudy hysteria. This is most pronounced when the chorus line of Nazi stormtroopers tap dances a series of gunshots in front of a Jewish man crossing the stage.
Another highlight was from Lorin Latarro’s choreography; she managed an immaculate job in presenting full scale numbers begetting of a much larger production on Menier’s tight performance space. The performances were near flawless, special mentions would need to go to Joanna Woodward as the Swedish bombshell Ulla and Harry Morrison as the Hitler fanatic Franz Liebkind and all of the chorus that filled the smaller roles.
A larger production with a bigger audience may get more people through the door but would it lessen the spectacle? If we are only looking at it from a cynical standpoint we have probably missed the point. The ability to laugh at itself and mock the very form the production takes is a great skill and the pinnacle of satire.
Menier Chocolate Factory, 4 O’Meara Street, SE1 1TE until March 1st.
Times: Tue – Sat 7:30PM | Sat & Sun 3PM. Admission: £74.50. Booking: https://www. menierchocolatefactory.com/
that ‘For another fiver we could have got Will Young’ when it was obvious that Prince Gareth was spurning her advances once more.
Dr Ranj and Simon Fielding created the necessary panto vibe in this production while the colour and energy was once again provided by Laine Theatre Arts with its all-dancing and acting alumni. This is the only panto you need to see because it has everything. The excitement in the auditorium was immense and the enthusiasm to boo with gusto from the groups of young people was brilliant. And there is a nice twist in the end for a contemporary audience. Would I watch it again? Oh yes I would.
Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA until 5th January.
Menier Andy Nyman (Max Bialystock) and Marc Antolin (Leo Bloom)
Photo by Manuel Harlan
Heading south - our pick of upcoming winter events
Santa’s Gingerbread Grotto
This Christmas, Santa is set to juggle his busy schedule for a magical stop at Woolwich Works, where he has unveiled an enchanting Gingerbread Grotto. Alongside a special meetand-greet, children will also receive a gingerbread gift, complete with glutenfree options, which they can decorate at dedicated icing stations in the Woolwich Works café. Accompanying adults can enter free of charge, and complimentary tickets are available for children under 12 months who also wish to meet Santa. While waiting to
Let Them Eat Cake
meet the jolly man himself, guests will be entertained with a variety of festive activities, including colouring and crafting stations sprinkled throughout the queue. This year’s Gingerbread Grotto does not include printed photos, so visitors are encouraged to capture the moment with a festive sELFie, with Santa’s playful elves on hand to assist in snapping the perfect shot.
Dates: Friday 20 to Monday 23 December Tickets: £10 per child, plus booking fee
The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street, SE18 6HD. www.woolwich.works/events/ gingerbread-grotto
The Elves and the Magic Bear
Join Santa’s Elves as they stumble upon a bag of untouched Christmas letters a few days before the grand celebration. Faced with the daunting task of ensuring no child is left without a gift on Christmas morning, they embark on a chaotic journey, enlisting the assistance of the ever-gracious Mrs Claus and members of the audience. With some joyful singing, dancing, magic, lots of silliness and a surprise guest, will they be able to save Christmas just in time? This interactive production is designed to captivate individuals of all ages, making it great for the whole family. It offers an immersive experience that will leave everyone with a heart full of festive joy, while introducing the youngest members of the audience to the enchantment of Christmas. After the show, parents and children will have the opportunity to take photos with the performers and take away a nice list certificate signed by Mrs Claus.
Dates: Until Monday 23 December 2024 . Tickets: Prices vary Admiral’s House, Old Royal Naval College, SE10 9NN ornc.org/whats-on/the-elves-and-the-magic-bear
Man in the Mirror
Back with another extravaganza, Let Them Eat Cake focuses on female and fem presenting artists across the capital and brings them all under one roof – in this case, the Fox and Firkin. The lineup boasts SCARLET, who is reinventing pop music with a unique electronic sound, MaZz, who experiments with blending neo-soul, jazz, R&B and dance styles, plus Ruby Jean bringing soulful blues and energetic house rhythms to the stage. Not forgetting Maxine Scott to fi nish the programme with new wave pop soul. Enjoy a night out with these stars; who says you can’t have your cake and eat it, too?
Date: Thursday 23 January 2025. Tickets: From £6 316 Lewisham High Street, SE13 6JZ foxfi rkin.com/events/let-them-eat-cake
In the Dark
Royal Museums Greenwich is playing host to an immersive sound experience under the Cutty Sark on Burns Night. In the Dark is a 60-minute sound experience performed live, entirely in the dark – for both the audience and the musicians – in unexpected spaces. Following 40 sold-out shows pre-Covid, the experience returns to London and is coming to the Cutty Sark for one night only. No phones, no theatrics, no acrobatics. Instead, it dares differently by taking a number of our senses away for an hour, leaving just our ears to own the show.
Date: Saturday 25 January 2025
Tickets: £40 general admission, £36 for members King William Walk, SE10 9HT
www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/cutty-sark/In-The-Dark
Are you ready for a Thriller of an evening? Celebrate the “king of pop” at Churchill Theatre this January with the “Man in the Mirror”, a tribute concert to Michael Jackson. Starring CJ, a world-renowned Michael Jackson tribute artist, and supported by a full cast of performers and musicians, the show captures the essence of Michael Jackson. Featuring all his greatest hits, including “Thriller”, “Billie Jean”, “Beat It”, “Smooth Criminal”, and, of course, “Man in the Mirror” – complete with choreography, visual effects, a light show and authentic costumes. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or experiencing the music of Michael Jackson for the fi rst time, get ready to travel through the best of his discography.
Date: Sunday 19 January 2025. Tickets: £29 to £35.50 High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA trafalgartickets.com/churchill-theatre-bromley/en-GB/event/music/man-in-the-mirror-19-jan-tickets
Carols under the stars
Surround yourself with a feeling of festive joy and head to the Old Brewery for carol singing under the stars with the Emmanuel Church London. Grab a hot drink, and some sweet treats and enjoy all the carols from 4pm on Sunday 15 December. Warm up your vocals and be sure to get involved in the merriment.
Date: Sunday 15 December 2024
Tickets: Free The Pepys Building, The Old Royal Naval College, SE10 9NN www.oldbrewerygreenwich.com/whats-on
WANTED RECORDS
Southwark Pensioners’ Centre
Supporting older people in Southwark for over 35 years.
Offering advice, support, activities, rooms for hire and a voice for older people .
Contact us on 020 7708 4556 or info@southwarkpensioners.org.uk
Or pop into 305 -307 Camberwell rd, Camberwell Green, SE5 0HQ
GRACIE MAY JONES
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A20 GLA ROAD (AMERSHAM ROAD, LONDON BOROUGH OF LEWISHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC, STOPPING AND BUS LANE SUSPENSION) ORDER 2024
1. Transport for London in consultation with the London Borough of Lewisham hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable resurfacing works to take place at A20 Amersham Road.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from:
(1) proceeding or stopping in a westerly direction on New Cross Road between its junctions with Florence Road and Amersham Road. Local access to be maintained;
(2) entering, stopping or proceeding on Amersham Road between its junctions with New Cross Road and Lewisham Way, Local access to be maintained;
(3) stopping on Deptford Broadway between its junctions with Deptford Church Street and Deptford High Street;
(4) proceeding or stopping in a northerly direction on Alpha Road between the extended southern building line of no. 414 New Cross Road and its junction with New Cross Road. Local access will be maintained;
(5) entering, exiting, proceeding or stopping on Parkeld Road between its junctions with Amersham Road and Lewisham Way.
This Order will also prohibit any vehicle over 7.5 tonnes from proceeding in a westerly direction on Deptford Bridge/New Cross Road between its junctions with Greenwich High Road and Lewisham Way.
This Order will also permit all vehicles to use the eastbound bus lane on New Cross Road between its junctions with Lewisham Way and Florence Road.
The Order will be effective from the 6th January 2025 until 6th July 2025 every night between 9.30 PM and 5.00 AM or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibitions will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
5. At such times as the prohibitions are in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs for local trafc via Blackheath Road, Blackheath Hill, Shooters Hill Road, Sun in the Sands roundabout, Rochester Way Relief Road, Westhorne Avenue, Eltham Road, Lee High Road, Lewisham High Street, Rennell Street, Molesworth Street, Loampit Vale, Loampit Hill and Lewisham Way to normal route of travel. For H.G.V.s via Greenwich High Road and Greenwich South Street to the diversion route above.
Dated this 20th day of December 2024
Matt Standell Performance and Planning Manager Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence
Signal Brewery Limited of Unit 8, Stirling Way, Croydon, CR0 4XN is applying for to use Unit 8, Stirling Way, Croydon, CR0 4XN as an operating centre for 2 goods vehicles and 0 trailers
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3200 GLA ROAD (STAMFORD STREET, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC AND STOPPING)
ORDER 2024
1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable telecom works to take place at A3200 Stamford Street.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from: (1) proceeding in a westerly direction on Stamford Street between its junctions with Blackfriars Road/Southwark Street and Rennie Street; (2) stopping on the southern kerb line of Stamford Street between its junctions with Blackfriars Road/Southwark Street and Rennie Street. The Order will also suspend the southern footway on Stamford Street between its junctions with Blackfriars Road/Southwark Street and Rennie Street.
The Order will be effective between the 9th January 2025 and the 15th January 2025 every night from 9.00 PM until 5.00 AM or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
5. At such times as the prohibitions are in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs for vehicles travelling northbound via Blackfriars Road, Blackfriars Bridge, New Bridge Street, Farringdon Street, Holborn Viaduct, Holborn, High Holborn, Kingsway, Strand Underpass, Strand, Lancaster Place and Waterloo Bridge to follow the diversion route below. For vehicles travelling southbound via Blackfriars Road, London Road, Elephant and Castle, St George’s Road, Waterloo Road and Tennison Way or reverse to normal route of travel.
Dated this 20th day of December 2024 Claire Wright Co-ordination Manager Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE LICENSING ACT 2003
Name of applicant Signal Brewery Ltd
Postal address of premises 6-8 Stirling Way, Croydon CR0 4XN
Application Details: For the grant of a new premises licence for units 6, 7 and 8 for the following licensable activities: Supply of Alcohol (On/Off sales): Sun-Wed 07:00-22:00 Thrs-Sat 07:00-23:00
Recorded music: Sun-Wed 07:00-22:00 Thrs-Sat 07:00-23:00
Full details of the application can be inspected on the licensing register, online at www.sutton.gov.uk or in person at the address given below.
Deadline for representations: 10/01/2025
(a date 28 consecutive days starting on the day after the day on which the application was given to the Authority)
Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Authority by post: Licensing Team, London Borough of Sutton, Civic Offices, St Nicholas Way, Sutton SM1 1EA or by email: licensing@sutton.gov.uk
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum penalty on conviction of such an offence is an unlimited fine.
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that Bohem Brewery Ltd., has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Queens Arms, for supply of alcohol & recorded music, Sunday-Thursday 12:00-23:00. Friday & Saturday 12:00-23:59.
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 5/1/2025 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or by email: licensing@merton.gov.uk
The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk
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, punishable upon conviction by an unlimited fine.
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS – LAMBETH HIGH STREET
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable crane operation works to be carried out safely, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering that length of Lambeth High Street which lies between Old Paradise Street and Whitgift Street.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via:a): Whitgift Street, Newport Street, Old Paradise Street and vice-versa; b) Diversion 1: Lambeth Road, Kennington Lane, Durham Street, Harleyford Road, South Lambeth Road, Parry Street, Wandsworth Road, Albert Embankment, Black Prince Road; c) Diversion 2: Black Prince Road, Albert Embankment, Kennington Lane, Kennington Road, Lambeth Road.
3. The ban will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order will come into force on 3rd January 2025 for a maximum duration of 3 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed, whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will be carried out on 3rd – 6th January 2025 between the hours of 9.30 pm and 5 am (with back-up dates of 10th – 13th January 2025 and 17th – 20th January), but if the works cannot be carried out or completed on those dates then the Order may also have effect on subsequent days within the maximum period of 3 months.
Dated 20th December 2024 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE – THORNCLIFFE ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable storage and welfare unit works to be carried out by SGN, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering Thorncliffe Road.
2. The above road closure will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
3. An alternative route for affected vehicles will be available via Kings Avenue, Thornbury Road, Kingswood Road and vice versa.
4. The Order will come into force on 2nd January 2025 and will continue in force for a maximum duration of 3 months (to allow or contingencies). In practice it is anticipated that the order will only have effect between 2nd January 2025 and 3rd February 2025 , but if the works cannot be completed or carried out between these dates, then the order will also have effect on subsequent dates within the maximum period of 3 months.
Dated 20th December 2024 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE – CARLISLE LANE
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable bridge inspection works to a railway bridge to be carried out safely, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth intend to make an Order the effect of which would be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering that ength of Carlisle Lane which lies:(Phase 1) between Westminster Bridge Road and Royal Street (An alternative route for vehicles affected by this closure would be available via Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth Palace Road and Royal Street); and (Phase 2) directly beneath the railway bridge between Hercules Road and a point 41 metres north-west of Hercules Road. (An alternative route for vehicles affected by this closure would be available via Lambeth Road, Kennington Road, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth Palace Road and Royal Street).
2. Whenever the bans referred to in paragraph 1 above apply, the one-way system in Carlisle Lane, between Royal Street and Hercules Road would be temporarily suspended.
3. The bans and suspension would only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order would come into force on 8th January 2025 and would continue for a maximum duration of 2 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the order would only have effect (for Phase 1) on the 8th and 9th January 2025 between 9 pm and 5 am, and (for Phase 2) on the 15th and 16th January 2025 between 9 pm and 5 am, but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time, the Order may have effect on subsequent dates within the maximum period of 2 months.
(These Orders are necessary to improve pedestrian experience through carriageway narrowing, pavement widening, reduced street clutter, seating, and improved public greening including trees and bio-diverse planting as part of a public realm improvement scheme. Objections or other representations may be made - see paragraph 6.)
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth propose to make the Lambeth (Free Parking Places, Loading Places and Waiting, Loading and Stopping Restrictions) (Amendment No. **) Order 202*, the Lambeth (Charged-For Parking Places) (Amendment No. **) Order 202* and the Lambeth (Moving Traffic Restrictions) (Amendment No. **) Order 202*, under sections 6, 45, 46, 49 and 124 of and Part IV of Schedule 9 to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
2. The general effect of the Free Parking Places, Loading Places and Waiting, Loading and Stopping Restrictions Order would be to: (a) introduce ”At Any Time” Waiting Restrictions in certain lengths of the streets specified in Schedule 1 to this notice; (b) relocate the Disabled Parking Place adjacent No. 19 Stockfield Road to generally adjacent No. 17 Stockfield Road; (c) relocate the Electric Vehicle Charging Place adjacent No. 2 Lanercost Road westward 1.70 metres.
3. The general effect of the Charged-For Parking Places Order would be to revoke the Shared Use Parking Places in certain lengths of Daysbrook Road and Hailsham Avenue.
4. The general effect of the Moving Traffic Restrictions Order would be to: (a) revoke the “Prohibition of Motor Vehicles” in Downton Avenue between its junctions with Wavertree Road and Hillside Road and introduce a bus lane in the same length of street; (b) prohibit motor vehicles from entering certain lengths of Palace Road.
5. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Council of the London Borough of Lambeth proposes to:
(a) construct a continuous footway in Hitherfield Road at its junction with Leigham Vale; (b) remove the traffic islands at the junction of Downton Avenue and Wavertree Road and replace them with a raised table; (c) construct a raised table in Hillside Road at its junction with Downton Avenue and Wavertree Road and extend the current raised table in Emsworth Street at its junction with Downton Avenue; (d) construct kerb build outs at the locations listed in Schedule 2 to this Notice.
6. If you have any enquiries about this matter, please email the Council's Low Traffic Neighbourhoods team: lowtrafficneighbourhoods@lambeth.gov.uk
7. A copy of the proposed Orders, of other documents giving detailed particulars about the scheme, of maps of the relevant areas, including the installation of the continuous footways, raised tables and build outs, and of the Council’s statement of reasons for proposing to make the Orders are available for inspection online at: https://consultation.appyway.com/lambeth or www.lambeth.gov.uk/trafficmanagement-orders and at the offices of Lambeth Council’s Parking and Enforcement Group (Parking, Network Management & Fleet), 3rd Floor, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London SW2 1EG, between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on Mondays to Fridays inclusive, excluding bank or public holidays, until the expiration of a period of 28 days from the date on which this notice is published. To arrange an inspection please email: Trafficorders@lambeth.gov.uk
8. All objections and other representations relating to the proposed Order and traffic calming measures described in this notice, must be made in writing and all objections must specify the grounds on which they are made (quoting reference Ref 120), and can be made using our consultation portal at https://consultation.appyway.com/lambeth or sent by post to Parking and Enforcement Group (Parking, Network Management & Fleet), London Borough of Lambeth, PO Box 80771, London, SW2 9QQ or by email TMOReps@lambeth.gov.uk by 16 January 2025. Any objection may be communicated to, or be seen by, other persons who may have an interest in this matter. Dated 20 December 2024
Stevens Highway Network Manager SCHEDULE 1 Hillside Road; Palace Road; Kingsmead Road; Lanercost Road; Leigham Vale; Rosedene Avenue; Stockfield Road; Hailsham Avenue; Mount Nod Road. SCHEDULE 2 Amesbury Avenue, at its junction with Emsworth Street and at its junction with Faygate Road; Faygate Road, at its junction with Amesbury Avenue; Hailsham Avenue, at its junction with Amesbury Avenue; Kinfauns Road, generally adjacent No. 100; Kingsmead Road, generally adjacent Nos. 71 to 73 ; Lanercost
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
Notice Under The Town and Country Planning Acts
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council is considering applications as set out below under the following categories; FUL – Full Applications
LB – Listed Building ADV – Advertisement RG3 - Approval under Reg 3
Written representations should be made within three weeks of the date of this advertisement to the Director of Planning, PO Box 734, Winchester SO23 5DG. Any comments made are open to inspection by the public and in the event of an appeal may be referred to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. Confidential comments cannot be taken into account in determining an application.
Application plans can be viewed online at www.lambeth.gov.uk/searchplanningapps – search using the reference number at the end of each application listing.
County Hall Riverside Building Westminster Bridge Road London Lambeth SE1 7PB Change of use of part fifth floor of the County Hall from sui generis to a Hotel providing 5 units (Use Class C1), together with the installation of secondary glazing, the removal of an internal partition wall, the replacement of two small windows panes with louvred panels, the reconfiguration of the WC area to laundry/storage area, the replacement of a window and other internal works. (Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 24/03078/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 24/03077/FUL). 24/03078/LB
9 Thornton Avenue London SW2 4HL Replacement of existing fenestration of second floor flat with like-for-like double glazed timber frame windows to Flat 5.
Replacement of 2nd floor single glazed sash windows with double glazed timber frame windows to the front and rear elevations (to flat 5). [ Associated Listed Building Consent: 24/02273/LB] 24/03494/FUL
97 Stamford Street London SE1 9NN Application for Listed Building Consent for the replacement of all existing windows with single glazed timber and casement windows. Replacement of existing external doors - like for like. (Associated full planning with reference number: 24/03877/FUL received). 24/03878/LB
15 Ferndale Road London SW4 7RJ Replacement of all existing windows and external doors with double glazed timber windows and timber doors. 24/03879/FUL
13 Moorland Road London SW9 8UA Application for Listed Building Consent for the replacement of all existing windows with single glazed timber and casement windows. (Associated full planning with reference number: 24/03874/FUL received). 24/03875/LB
Sedley Place 68 Venn Street London SW4 0AX Installation of air conditioning unit (with associated acoustic enclosure) to south-western elevation at first floor level - Flat 2. 24/03300/FUL
12 Milton Road London SE24 0NP Replacement of all existing top floor (3 front and 1 rear) widows with double glazed timber windows - Flat 3. 24/02961/FUL
5 Chelsham Road London SW4 6NR Replacement of front, rear and side windows including the rear door at the basement level with double glazed white timber sash/casement windows and double glazed white timber door. (Flat A). 24/03777/FUL Flats 25 To 48 Benhurst Court Leigham Court Road London SW16 2QN Replacement of crittall
glazed windows to Flat 46. 24/02847/FUL
22-24 Clapham Manor Street London SW4 6DZ Replacement of existing single glazed timber sash and casement windows with double glazed timber
E(g)) at ground floor and 12 residential units (Use Class C3) on the
Block D = Erection of 3 storey building to provide 6 x 1 bed residential units (Use Class C3);
of 2 disabled parking spaces, a play area, refuse/cycle storage and other associated works. 24/02771/FUL
91-103 Vassall Road London SW9 6NH Replacement of the communal heating systems.
(Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 24/02763/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 24/02762/RG3) 24/02763/LB
27 Chaucer Road London Lambeth SE24 0NY Erection of a single storey ground floor side extension and the replacement of the rear double doors. 24/03733/FUL
11 Moorland Road London Lambeth SW9 8UA Replacement of single glazed timber sash and casement windows with single glazed timber sash and casement windows.
(Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 24/03872/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 24/03871/FUL). 24/03872/LB
14 Walcot Square London Lambeth SE11 4TZ Replacement of existing windows with double-glazed windows. 24/03818/LB 463 - 465 Brixton Road London SW9 8HH Installation of a temporary decorative scaffold shroud comprising a1:1 replica image of the building facade measuring 8m X 6m for a period of 2 months. 24/03816/ADV
43 Stockwell Green London SW9 9HX Replacement of all windows and rear door with double glazed timber sash, and casement windows and double glazed white timber door to the ground floor Flat (Flat 1). 24/03839/FUL
43 Atherfold Road London SW9 9LN Replacement of windows and doors with double glazed white timber sash and casement windows and double glazed white timber doors. (Flat B). 24/03841/FUL
21 Atherfold Road London SW9 9LN Replacement of all windows and rear door with double glazed timber sash, and casement windows and double glazed white timber door to the ground floor Flat. 24/03842/FUL
68 Atherfold Road London Lambeth SW9 9LW Replacement of windows and doors with double glazed white timber sash and casement windows and double glazed white timber doors. (Flat B). 24/03843/FUL
56 Atherfold Road London SW9 9LW Replacement of all timber windows and rear door with double-glazed timber windows and double-glazed timber rear door to ground floor flat. 24/03844/FUL
52 Atherfold Road London SW9 9LW Replacement of all timber windows and rear door with double-glazed timber windows and double-glazed timber rear door to ground floor Flat. 24/03845/FUL
11 Thornton Avenue London SW2 4HL Replacement of window and door to sliding doors (Flat B). 24/03446/FUL
Dated this Friday 20th December 2024
Rob Bristow Director - Planning, Transport & Sustainability Climate and Inclusive Growth Directorate
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS – CARROUN ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable Southern Gas Network to carry out new service connection works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering that length of Carroun Road which lies between Dorset Road and a point 25 metres north-east of Dorset Road.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via Dorset Road, Meadow Road, Fentiman Road and vice versa.
3. The ban will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall, from time to time, be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order will come into force on 6th January 2025 and will continue for a maximum duration of 2 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 6th and 17th January 2025, but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 2 months.
Dated 20th December 2024 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
[NOTE:
1.
Loading and Stopping Restrictions) (Amendment No. 50) Order 2024 and The Lambeth (Charged-For Parking Places) (Amendment No. 47) Order 2024 under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended).
2. The general effect of the Orders which will come into force on 23 December 2024 will be in:–
(1) Acre Lane, the north side, convert the existing permit holders parking place to a 30-minute free bay, no return in 2 hours operating Monday to Saturday between 7am and 7pm outside Nos. 148 to 154 Acre Lane; drawing 12
(2) Brixton Water Lane, the south side, remove the Doctor parking place outside No.48 Brixton Water Lane and extend the adjacent shared use parking place in that location;
(3) Coin Street, the south-west side, remove 4 metres of permit holder parking place outside No.34 Coin Street and replace with a tree pit in that location;
(4) Coldharbour Lane, the south-east side, extend no waiting and no loading at any time restrictions outside Nos. 61 to 65 Coldharbour Lane; (5) Cottington Street, the south-west side, convert 15.2 metres of single yellow line to no waiting at any time restrictions outside Centenary Hall (Emmanuel Church);
(6) Durning Road, the north side, extend the existing double yellow lines by 12.5 metres outside the flank wall of No. 63 Durning Road;
(7) Inglewood Mews, both sides, extend double yellow lines from Stable Mews into Inglewood Mews for the entire length;
(8) Langley Lane, the south side, reduce 3 metres of permit holder parking place and replace with double yellow lines opposite Nos. 17 and 19 Langley Lane;
(9) New Park Road, the north-west side, remove 6.5 metres of free parking place and replace with double yellow lines outside (a) Nos. 44 to 46 New Park Road, and (b) Nos. 24 to 28 New Park Road;
(10) Park Hill, the east side, reduce the existing permit holders parking place by 18 metres and replace with a single yellow line outside Nos. 107 and 109 Park Hill;
(11) Porden Road, both sides, change the operational hours of the permit holder parking places from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday to 8.30am to 10.30pm Monday to Sunday;
(12) Robsart Street, the north side, remove the permit holder parking place opposite Nos. 35 to 39 Robsart Street and extend the adjacent double yellow lines extend the double yellow line “at any time” waiting restrictions at the location;
(13) Studley Road, the west side, remove the free parking place and replace with a single yellow line outside the flank wall of No. 1 Binfield Road (the surgery); (14) in Vauxhall Grove, the north side, remove part of the existing permit holder parking place and introduce double yellow line “at any time” waiting restrictions outside No. 68 Vauxhall Grove.
3. The Orders are necessary to improve junction safety and visibility for all road users, improve traffic flow, maintain safe cycle and pedestrian accesses and prevent unsafe parking, and manage the kerbside space effectively.
4. A copy of each of the Orders and other documents giving detailed particulars about them are available for inspection online at: https://streets.appyway.com/lambeth or www.lambeth.gov.uk/traffic-management-orders and at the offices of Lambeth Council’s Parking and Enforcement Group (Parking, Network Management & Fleet), 3rd Floor, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London SW2 1EG, between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on Mondays to Fridays inclusive (except on bank/public holidays), until the last day of a period of six weeks beginning with the date on which the Orders were made. To arrange an inspection please email: Trafficorders@lambeth.gov.uk
5. If any person wishes to question the validity of the Orders or of any of their provisions on the grounds that they are not within the powers conferred by the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, or that any requirement of that Act or of any instrument made under that Act has not been complied with, that person may, within 6 weeks from the date on which the Orders are made, apply for the purpose to the High Court.
Dated 20 December 2024 Ben Stevens Highways Network Manager
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that TOOTING KARAHI & CO. LTD has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at BUTT KARAHI, 26A-26B UPPER TOOTING ROAD, LONDON, SW17 7PG for Late Night Refreshment – Indoors and Outdoors – Monday to Sunday – 23:00hrs to 02:00hrs Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 15TH JANUARY 2025 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or by email: licensing@merton.gov.uk
The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk
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, punishable upon conviction by an unlimited fine.
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A201 GLA ROAD (NEW KENT ROAD, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC, STOPPING AND SUSPENSION OF BUS LANE) ORDER (NO.2) 2024
1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable carriageway improvement works to take place at A201 New Kent Road.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from entering, exiting, proceeding or stopping on New Kent Road between its junctions with Elephant and Castle and Bricklayers Arm Roundabout. Both Carriageways will not be closed simultaneously. This order will also permit all vehicles to use all bus lanes on New Kent Road between its junctions with Elephant and Castle and Bricklayers Arms Roundabout.
The Order will be effective at certain times from 7.00 AM on the 6th January 2025 until 11.59 PM on the 5th June 2025 or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
5. At such times as the prohibition is in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs via Elephant and Castle, Newington Causeway, Great Dover Street and Bricklayers Arms or reverse to normal route of travel.
Dated this 20th day of December 2024
Andrew Rogers Performance and Planning Manager Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
To place a notice in this paper and online, please email em@ cm‐media .co.uk or call us on 020 7232 1639
Deadline is 3pm on Wednesday
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Lionesses sign off year in styLe
By John Kelly
dulWiCh hamleT’s winless isthmian league Premier division run stretched to six games as they drew 2-2 with dartford at Princes Park last weekend.
The Darts went in front through Callum Jones in the 22nd minute before Luke Wanadio equalised three minutes into first-half added-time and Ralfi Hand gave Hakan Hayrettin’s visitors the lead on 61 minutes.
But Dulwich couldn’t hold on as Olly Box scored in the 72nd minute in front of an attendance of 851.
The Hamlet are fifteenth in the table, but only four points off Dartford in the last promotion spot in fifth in a congested league.
Dulwich face Cray Valley PM at Champion Hill this Saturday at 3pm.
manager ted jones has overseen dramatic transformation
By Myles Thornton
millWall lionesses �inished 2024 with a bang as they beat Sport London E Ben�ica 3-0 in the l&serWFl Premier division at rectory Park in west london at the weekend.
Midfield trio Victoria Lussambo, Florrie Winfield and Alice Wood all scored to seal the Lionesses’ sixth win under Ted Jones and Jack Wisson’s
leadership.
Forward Chloe Francis had to go in goal with neither Annis Clara-Wright nor Evie Thorne-Ford available for the game.
It took 39 minutes for the deadlock to be broken, Mia Lockett passing through to Lussambo who netted her first goal for the club.
It was 2-0 before the break when on 43 minutes Winfield got on the end of a Ciara Watling pass to finish.
Manager Jones made two substitutions at half-time, sending on Lucy Jellett and Emel Huseyin to replace goal-scorer Lussambo and Elise Jennings.
Three minutes before the hour-mark, Wood struck the ball magnificently to make it 3-0.
Jones brought even more fresh legs on as Maisie Joyce and Liv McGregor replaced Esme Johnson and Winfield on 62 minutes.
With his side comfortably ahead, Jones used the opportunity to use all his substitutes with Millie Connell coming on for Watling with 20 minutes left.
It was the Lionesses’ fifth league win of the season and they are seventh in the table with seventeen points from twelve games.
The Lionesses will now have a winter break before returning to action on January 5 to face Herne Bay FC at St Paul’s Sports Ground in Rotherhithe.
Surrey sign Kiwi international Smith
By Sports Reporter
surrey have signed nathan smith to play during the rothesay County Championship and the vitality Blast in 2025.
The Kiwi all-rounder will join from the start of May and will be available, around his commitments with the national side, until the end of the season.
The right arm quick bowler recently made his New Zealand Test debut against England, picking up seven wickets in the first two matches of the series. He averages just under 27 with both bat and ball in First-Class cricket
having taken 151 wickets and 1,999 runs.
Smith represented Worcestershire in the 2024 season in seven games, taking 27 wickets and scoring 214 runs at an average of 30.5.
Smith said: “I am delighted to be joining Surrey for the 2025 season.
“I loved my time at Worcestershire last year and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity they gave me to come and play county cricket. I would like to thank all of the amazing people at the club there, it was not an easy decision to not return.
“However, the chance to join one of the best counties in the country was
one I couldn’t turn down. I have only heard great things about the club, and I look forward to hopefully contributing to continuing the remarkable success the club has had in recent years.
“I am especially excited about the prospect of bowling on the Kia Oval wicket and linking up with the outstanding group of bowlers in the squad.
“Winning three consecutive Championships is an incredible achievement. I am determined to help the club continue this success and would also love to contribute to securing some silverware in the Vitality Blast.”
Alec Stewart, director of men’s cricket at Surrey, added: "We were really impressed with Nathan’s performances in the County Championship last season and are pleased that he will be joining the Club. Nathan is an exciting talent and with another busy summer of cricket, where we are expecting to have players away representing England, Nathan will bring skill with ball and bat.
“Nathan will be available for Surrey for a good period of the season, fitting around his international commitments, and we look forward to seeing what he can do wearing the Three Feathers.”
Dubois elevated to full world champion
By John Kelly
Caroline duBois said it was an “honour” after she was presented with the full WBC lightweight world belt in hamburg last week.
The belt was vacated by Katie Taylor and Greenwich’s Dubois, 23, received it from WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman at the governing body’s annual convention in Germany.
Dubois was the interim champion after she defeated Maira Moneo in August. Her first defence will be on her 24th birthday against Jessica Camara.
"It is a great honour to be elevated to full WBC world champion and to have WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman present me with the belt," Dubois said.
"It's always been my dream to become world champion, and this is just the start of the journey for me. I look forward to defending my WBC world title on January 11 in Sheffield."
Dubois' promoter Ben Shalom added: "We would like to thank WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman and the board of governors for upgrading Caroline.
"The WBC lightweight title is active again and in Caroline the WBC has a champion who can rule for many years to come.
"We are only just starting to see her true potential. We believe Caroline will become the future face of women's boxing."
Whyte in no mood to hand out gifts
By John Kelly
WhyTe
Brixton’s Whyte, 36, dominated the contest and his Ghanaian opponent, also 36, didn’t return for the eighth round as blood dripped from his nose.
Whyte returned a positive drugs test in August last year which put paid to a rematch with Anthony Joshua.
Whyte defeated Romanian Christian Hammer in Ireland in March, a bout that was sanctioned by Boxing Union of Ireland.
The weekend’s fight was under the Polish Boxing Union and not the British Boxing Board of Control.
"I'm glad Tetteh stood up, he's tough," Whyte said. "I needed rounds, I need to get used to pacing rounds and using my jab.
"I've been off for a long time and my last fight was only three rounds. "I was angry in that last fight so I just went in there for the kill and didn't use my boxing skills."
Photo by Lily Boorer
Esme Johnson races through
dillian
stopped ebenezer Tetteh in the seventh round of their heavyweight bout in gibraltar last weekend.
Dillian Whyte
Photo by Matchroom Boxing
Shakin’ Stevens strikes right note
By John Kelly
aFC WimBledon are
“looking up” after matty stevens’ eleventh league Two goal of the season gave them a 1-0 win over doncaster rovers at Plough lane and sent them fourth in the table.
The Dons scored the only goal 27 minutes in when Josh Kelly looped a cross into the box and top-scorer Stevens fired past keeper Teddy Sharman-Lowe.
Johnnie Jackson’s side are only a point behind Crewe Alexandra in the last automatic promotion spot.
Kelly joined James Tilley on four assists this season.
“I’m happy to contribute and that’s another three points that moves us further up the table, we just need to keep looking up and keep climbing,” Kelly said.
“It’s always been good between me and our fans. Clearly I didn’t have the best of starts this season, but sometimes that happens, that’s football. They’ve all supported me the whole way throughout, no problems whatsoever. I’m thankful for that and hopefully it continues.
“I’m enjoying playing with the three of us up front. It’s working at the minute and we need to keep at it, keep getting the points and keep doing well for the team, the three of us.”
Stevens now has fifteen goals in all competitions before Christmas.
Kelly added: “He’s flying. Hopefully he continues that way and gets us promoted. That’s what we need, we need goals and he’s giving us them.
“It was a great win. Previously we couldn’t really see it out, the final bit. We dug deep for the 90 minutes and time added on. It’s a much deserved three points.
“It’s hectic around this time of the year. You can get a few injuries, but the boys have stepped up where they’ve been needed. Hopefully that continues.”
Wimbledon are at sixth-place Chesterfield on Saturday.
PaLaCe dream of Bright Christmas
first festive ‘gift’ for Eagles fans after ‘m23 derby’ win
By John Kelly
oliver glasner said his players gave Crystal Palace supporters their “�irst Christmas gift” with their 3-1 win at Brighton & hove albion last weekend.
Centre-back Trevoh Chalobah fired home from close range in the 27th minute after a corner.
Ismaila Sarr headed in the second from Tyrick Mitchell's cross six minutes later and scored his second eight minutes from time.
Brighton got a consolation through a Marc Guehi own goal in the 87th minute following another scramble from a corner but the Eagles comfortably saw out the game to inflict a first home Premier League defeat of the season on Fabian Hürzeler’s side.
After no wins in their opening eight league games of the season, Palace have lost only one of their last eight and have moved four points clear of the relegation zone.
“Happiness, especially about the performance of the players, and for our fans here today,” Glasner said as he summed up his feelings post-match.
“We knew it was an important game for
our fans, for the club, and so the players performed really well today. We struggled a little bit at the beginning of the game and at the beginning of the second half, but then we got the game under control, we scored nice goals, so over all, a great performance and a big win.”
Glasner added: “I love football and this atmosphere. I mentioned it at the press conference. We prepared like we prepare every single Premier League game the whole season, what we want to do, how we want to play, their strengths, their weaknesses, especially our strengths, and then, today, we talked about how important it is for our fans.
“The fans have always supported us the whole season. Even when we had the defeats at the beginning of the season, they were always behind the team, behind us, and we said maybe it's an opportunity for us to give them a little bit back, and maybe a first Christmas gift.
“The players – I mention it quite often –are great characters, so they gave the first Christmas gift to our fans, and I hope they enjoyed the afternoon.”
Sarr has scored three goals in his last five games.
Glasner said: “We know that they play with a high line, defending man-to-man.
Ismaïla’s strength is his pace, and then we knew we could get him there.
“The first one was a great header from him, so when we get him into these running duels he's always able to score goals. He's more confident than at the beginning of the season, he feels better.
“He understands better and better how we want to play as a team, what he has to do – also with Dani Muñoz, because there was one disallowed goal where he would assist and Dani the goal – this is getting better and better, so we are really pleased for him.”
Palace could look forward to their EFL Cup quarter-final tie at Arsenal on Wednesday with more confidence after their improved form over the past two months.
“We know each other for a long time, we’ve trained together for a long time. I mentioned it quite often but we didn't talk about it at the beginning of the season because it looked like excuses, and excuses never help to win games, so we worked pretty hard, the players worked pretty hard, and it was twelve players without the pre-season,” Glasner said.
“When we talk about the back three, for
example, Marc Guehi was injured at the end of last season, so was new to how we played in the back three. Maxence Lacroix and Trevoh Chalobah arrived on deadline day, two weeks after the start of the Premier League, no time for them to train together.
“Trevoh wasn't allowed to train with the Chelsea squad, Marc arrived ten days before the Premier League start, after a very long season and tournament with England, so it just takes time, that we get each other known, that we know how we want to play, what we expect from them in defending, I think they are doing better and better, but I still think they are not on the top of how they can perform together.
“I can talk about many others who had this situation. We stayed very, very calm. The whole club always felt the support from the sporting director, from the chairman, and from the players especially, because they are the most important ones, and so it's staying calm, working hard, analysing without emotion.
“Also, in the other games we were always competitive, but we didn't take the goals, we didn't take the wins - and now it's better.”
Go to southlondon.co.uk for the reaction from Wednesday’s game.
Charlton boss: We are working religiously to put it right
By Jack Whittaker at The Valley
naThan Jones said Charlton were working “religiously” on solving their problems after last saturday’s goalless draw with Mans�ield Town at The valley left them with just one win in nine league one games, pressure mounting on the boss and a disgruntled fan base.
The Addicks had play-off aspirations coming into the season but the lack of potency in attack risks derailing their hopes if not addressed soon.
The result dropped them fourteenth in the league, seven points off the top six.
Karoy Anderson went close early on after being played through by Tyreece Campbell, but he let the angle get away from him as he bore down on goal.
The hosts were then let off the hook as Lucas Akins blazed over from close range after being picked out by a low cross from Frazer Blake-Tracy. It was an uninspired first half from the Addicks, who lacked incisiveness, often resorting to long balls that gifted possession to the visitors and encouraged chants of “we’ve lost the ball” from the Valley faithful.
Miles Leaburn replaced Matty Godden at half-time and was involved immediately, as
he appeared to be wrestled to the ground in the area by former Addick Deji Oshilaja, but referee Benjamin Speedie was unmoved.
A delicate flick from Campbell put Leaburn through one-on-one but he skewed his shot wide, before the two combined again with Leaburn this time heading against the bar from Campbell’s cross.
After failing to capitalise on their secondhalf dominance, the Addicks are now goalless in their last three games in all competitions.
Clean sheets are no longer silver linings for the fans, many of whom were jeering at the final whistle, but Jones insists that his
style of play is not to blame.
“We’re not sitting back and being defensive, we are aggressive - us and Birmingham are the best two pressers in the league,” Jones said.
“I understand that the fans want to see more chances and want to see us score goals and we’re working religiously on it.”
Charlton’s defensive solidity gave them a platform going forward, as they limited Mansfield to just a few chances and no shots on target. But ultimately the clinical instinct was missing.
Jones added: “We’ve created three clearcut chances and we should have had a penalty on Miles, if that’s VAR it’s a penalty.
“We’re close to being a very good side and to getting results, but at the minute we’re doing one side very well and the other side is a working progress.”
Addicks full-back Thierry Small has called on the fans to get behind the team during this difficult spell.
He said: “As players we want the fans to be backing us even when things are not going well, because when The Valley is rocking it’s unbelievable and you can really feel that momentum.
“The morale in the changing room is still high and we’re sticking together.”
Charlton travel to Northampton on Saturday.
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has overseen a turnaround
‘it Was a Bit of a shoCK to everyone’
azeez on neil harris’ departure, scoring his first goal at The Den and learning the ‘millwall way’
By Will Scott
Femi aZeeZ said neil harris’ departure was “a bit of a shock to everyone”.
Harris stepped down as head coach following last weekend’s 1-0 loss to Middlesbrough, despite leading the Lions on a nine-game unbeaten run, and beating two of the current top four at home.
Harris’ long-time assistant David Livermore has been named Millwall’s temporary head coach while the club seeks a permanent replacement.
“It was a bit of a shock to everyone as you can tell,” Azeez said.
“He did incredibly well for the club in his second stint. It’s just one of those, we just need to bounce back really.
“We’ve got Ads [Adam Barrett] and
Livers and all the coaching staff behind the scenes who need the support as well. We back them, they back us to bounce back.”
Azeez, 23, joined the Lions from League One side Reading in the summer.
The winger found the step up in the quality of opposition challenging at first.
“It took a while, but I think the more I played, the more I trained with the lads, I got there,” Azeez said. “I'm still getting there, not 100% but I’m there or there about now.”
When asked what he found most challenging about the step-up, Azeez said:
“ The tempo and speed of play compared to League One.
“Games there can be a bit more stop start, a bit slower on the ball and mentally slower as well. Just the speed of play and all of that, it's a lot quicker in the
Championship.
Azeez is clearly starting to catch on. He has started five of the Lions’ last six fixtures after being limited to substitute appearances and cup starts in his first month with the team.
He attributes some of his improvement to learning from the more experienced attackers in the squad, who have helped teach him the “Millwall way”.
“They're more experienced than me, so watching them in training, speaking to them, getting their knowledge and their experiences, it's obviously helped me a lot,” Azeez said.
“In terms of how to play the Millwall way, also how to play in the Championship as well. What they've used to help them get success in the past, I try to implement that.
“The Millwall way is feisty, fiery, playing
Jedi wins Star War with Mo
By John Kelly
marCo silva was blown away by antonee robinson’s performance in Fulham’s thrilling 2-2 draw against Liverpool at An�ield. Despite being directly faced with the threat of Mohamed Salah, Robinson still managed to provide both assists as the Cottagers became just the fourth team this season to take points off Arne Slot’s Premier League leaders.
United States international Robinson set up Andreas Pereira's eleventh-minute opener before Reds left-back Andy Robertson was sent off six minutes later for denying Harry Wilson a goal-scoring opportunity.
Cody Gakpo’s header from Mohamed Salah's cross levelled for Liverpool on 47 minutes.
Robinson cut the ball back for Rodrigo Muniz to restore Fulham’s lead fourteen minutes from time but Liverpool levelled again through Diogo Jota with three minutes left.
“What a performance,” Silva said.
“It’s really difficult to find one moment where he wasn’t at a really high level.
“Not easy to come here playing against a player like Salah, the way normally they like to expose the leftback.
“We took that risk, to go one-v-one, many times. He was so brave, he was so assertive, he was so aggressive in the right way and he did it so, so well.”
Silva first worked with ‘Jedi’ when he was manager at Everton an the defender came through their academy.
Silva added: “He’s improving so, so
quick in some things. I know him very well from Everton, but the way he’s improving in some set-ups, defensive set-ups, being much more brave in the way he faces one-v-one situations, the way he goes inside the spaces as well.
“And of course, again, two assists form a full-back at Anfield shows the quality that he has. I remember some seasons ago, even last season, many people were talking about his decision-making, but already he’s the player from our team with more assists for sure.
“Being clear, what a performance from him. What a performance. Brilliant, unbelievable performance from him, and I told him at the end of the game that he has to be really proud.”
Fulham play Southampton at Craven Cottage this Sunday at 2pm.
with passion, hunger and excitement.”
The more Azeez plays, the more he builds chemistry with his fellow forwards.
“It [chemistry] has developed well,” Azeez said. “As a new player, especially as an attacking player coming into the squad, we need to build those relationships.
“I think the more I've played, the more I know how they play, and they know how I play. So we've gelled a bit more and obviously we work on it in training as well. I think chemistry-wise I’m definitely getting there. Just need to build on it really, and add more goals.”
Azeez’s work is starting to pay dividends.
He netted a late equaliser during the Lions’ 1-1 draw with Sunderland, his first goal for the club.
“It was good to get the equaliser there to put it back to 1-1,” Azeez said.
“I had a few chances beforehand, which
I really should have scored, so I think it was more of a case of just settling the nerves.
“I just knew where to be in that moment. I saw Aidomo [Emakhu] running down the wing, and I knew he was going to either have a shot or put it in the area that I needed to be in. So I thought I need to be in there and yeah, right time, right place.” Azeez’s goal came during Millwall’s last positive result at home - they have since lost twice at The Den, and are looking to bounce back against Blackburn Rovers this weekend.
“It’s going to be very important. It’s our home ground, we obviously need to put things right, Azeez said. “We have quality in the team to do so. So I think we're not too worried, still in a good place anyway. I think we just need to trust ourselves and just get back to where we were.”
By John Kelly
marTi CiFuenTes
said he “couldn’t be more proud” of his players after Paul smyth struck an equaliser to earn a point in their 1-1 draw against Bristol City at ashton gate last weekend.
Smyth finished brilliantly from 40 yards in the 65th minute after Robins keeper Max O’Leary was caught out of his area when he tried to intercept the ball following an R’s counter-attack.
Scott Twine had given the hosts the lead five minutes earlier from a free-kick.
QPR took seven points from three games last week and have twelve from their last six matches unbeaten.
“I couldn’t be more proud of the guys, for the way we ground it out
and competed,” Cifuentes said.
“We stayed in the game. It wasn’t the best performance against a good team who had an extra day’s rest. They are also one of the most athletic teams in the league who have real counter and pressing capacity.
“We didn’t express ourselves in the way that we wanted to in the first half, but big credit to the guys for the way they kept battling to take a point.
Cifuentes added: “[Smyth] showed his pace and I’m really glad for him, glad for the team.
“It was a difficult first half and we had to push a lot, mentally, to make sure we stayed in the game.
“The way the guys are currently performing is something to be proud of.”
QPR host Preston North End this Saturday.
Femi Azeez leads the team in expected goals (xG)
Sport
Livers taKes festive reins
Temporary head coach targets first win in four when Blackburn visit Den
EXCLUSIVE
By Will Scott
millWall TemPorary head coach david livermore said it would be business as usual ahead of the lions’ clash with Blackburn rovers at The den on saturday.
Livermore was placed in temporary charge of the first team on Monday (December 16) after Neil Harris decided to step down as head coach. Millwall’s all-time top-scorer bowed out after a 1-0 loss to Middlesbrough last weekend.
Livermore, 44, who was Harris’ assistant in his two spells at the club, will take charge of the Lions until a permanent head coach is appointed. Livermore had talks with chairman James Berylson and director of
football Steve Gallen and agreed to oversee the team as the search for Harris' replacement continues.
He will be supported by first-team coach Adam Barrett, goalkeeper coach Andy Marshall, and under-21 boss Kevin Nugent.
“I spoke to Steve, and I spoke to the chairman at length,” Livermore told our paper.
“Obviously, we're all disappointed to see Neil go, but we've got to look forward now. They've asked me to step in and I said that I would.
“At the minute it is maybe for one game, maybe two. So I've basically said to them that I'm prepared to do it for as long as they need to find the next manager.
“They've been really supportive, the staff have been really supportive.
We’ve got some real experienced staff
here. Obviously, Adam has done the role himself before, Kevin Nugent's been a manager, I've been an interim manager before, Andy Marshall is a very experienced goalkeeper.
“We’ve got a lot of experience preparing teams for games, we’ll continue as we normally do. And as I say, I keep repeating myself, but we’ll be organised and ready to go for Saturday.”
Livermore takes over a side whose form has nosedived of late. Millwall have lost their last three fixtures after going unbeaten for nine games.
“I suppose our form depends on which way you look at it, really,” Livermore said.
“So you can look at it from the point of view that we've lost three on the spin, not won in six, but then you could look at it also and say that we've
David Livermore made more than 300 appearances
won four, drawn three and lost three in the last ten.
“So it depends which way you look at it. We’ll prepare properly, we’re professionals. We’ll be organised and ready to go for the weekend and obviously three points is our aim, but also a positive performance.”
The Lions face a tough challenge against the Championship's most inform side. Blackburn have won their last six games and kept clean sheets in the last five.
“They’re a good side,” Livermore said. “A very experienced team in a good vein of form at the moment.
“Bit similar to ourselves in terms of style, very well organised out of possession, very good on transitions, counter-attacks. They’re very well organised in all phases of the game, so it’ll be a tough one."
By John Kelly
Chelsea Winger mykhailo mudryk has protested his innocence after failing a drugs test.
Mudryk said the result has come as a “complete shock” and that he didn’t do anything wrong.
In a statement, the Blues said: “Both the club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances.”
Mudryk wrote on Instagram: "This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.
“I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.
Stuck in the mud mac knifes through real
By John Kelly
CaTarina maCario �ired home two second-half penalties to beat real madrid 2-1 at the estadio alfredo di stéfano on Tuesday night and send Chelsea into the Women’s Champions league quarter-�inals.
Sonia Bompastor’s Blues trailed 1-0 to Scotland forward Caroline Weir’s seventh-minute opener before the boss made a match-changing halftime substitute, sending on Macario for Mayra Ramirez.
Macario was fouled by Olga Carmona for the first penalty in the 51st minute and she was successful from twelve yards again five minutes later after Carmona had handled. Chelsea won Group B with six wins out of six.
“She changed the game and she showed tonight she was a world-class player,” Bompastor said. “I’m really pleased with her performance. I know her potential. I know what she can bring.”
