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REOPENING OF WANDLE PARK COULD BE DELAYED BY ‘TOTALLY PREVENTABLE’ SQUATTER TAKEOVER
By Harrison Galliven Local Democracy Reporter
A GROUP of squatters has occupied the long-vacant Wandle Park café, reigniting public frustration over Croydon Council’s failure to reopen the facility.
The café, once a popular feature of the park’s 2013 redevelopment, has remained closed since the pandemic despite multiple promises to bring it back into use.
The group behind the occupation, Reclaim Croydon, began occupying the building over a month ago. Known for converting disused public spaces into temporary community hubs, the group previously made headlines in 2023 after taking over Croydon’s former Brick by Brick offices on George Street.
Since moving in, Reclaim Croydon says they have cleaned and repaired parts of the café and hosted free events, including teas, drinks, a shared lunch, circus performances, and a clown workshop over the recent bank holiday.
Croydon Council confirmed it is “still trying to gain repossession via peaceful means”. According to an internal email seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), officials are prepared to seek a court eviction order if the occupiers do not leave voluntarily, though the process could take several weeks.
The council has also suggested that the Friends of Wandle Park, a local community group, might help mediate a peaceful resolution with the squatters.
Built as part of a wider park regeneration, the café is located near the eastern entrance and was once a well-used facility offering food, drinks, and access to Wandle Park’s only public toilet. Since its closure, however, the building has fallen into disrepair and become a hotspot for antisocial behaviour.
“I’ve seen people doing drugs and urinating behind it, sometimes even worse,” one member of Friends of Wandle Park told the LDRS. “Some people come to the park, find there’s no toilet, and say they’ll never come back.”
Another resident added: “They spent all that money on the park, only to let it fall apart ten years later.”
Mayor Jason Perry has previously said
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he is “keen to see it reopened”, noting that cafés play an important role in improving safety and boosting footfall. While he acknowledged issues with the roof, he said the council was preparing to go to market “imminently” to find a new operator.
Despite such assurances, the timeline has repeatedly slipped. During a walkabout in November 2022, council officers reportedly told residents the café would reopen by Easter 2023. As of June 2025, it remains shut.
Throughout the delays, the Friends group and nearby residents have called on the council to open the café to the community.
Friends member Simon Jones told the LDRS last year: “What we’re saying is we want access to the café and its amenities in the meantime.”
While some online have praised Reclaim Croydon’s recent efforts as a grassroots response to inaction, others fear the occupation could further delay any formal
reopening.
Waddon Labour councillor and mayoral candidate Rowenna Davis has criticised the administration’s handling of the site, calling the current situation “totally preventable”.
“Residents have been campaigning to get this café reopened for years,” she told the LDRS. “All Mayor Perry had to do was say yes to community members who had already shown they could do it. Mayor Perry delayed again and again until the squatters arrived.”
She pledged to continue supporting local efforts to bring the café back into use: “Fellow Councillor Elily Ponnuthurai and I will keep fighting until this beloved café is open and bringing joy to the community once again.”
Despite the setbacks, optimism persists among supporters. A Friends member previously described the café’s potential as “a goldmine”.
“You could hold children’s parties, set out plenty of tables and chairs, it’s amazing what could be done there,” they said.
A spokesperson for Croydon Council said:
“The illegal occupation of this councilowned building is disruptive and has led to a delay in the lease being secured by the new café operator.
“We are making arrangements to repossess and secure the building and are working with the police to shut down the illegal operation of refreshments being served to the public.
“We know how much our residents and visitors to Wandle Park want to see the café reopened and we remain committed to getting it reopened as soon as possible.
“The café has been closed longer than expected owing to delays during the tendering process for a new café operator. We have been working to secure a new operator and are eager to finalise this process.”
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Councillors believe the café’s reopening will reduced anti-social behaviour in the park Credit: Kake
THERE IS A NEW ERA OF WOMEN’S CRICKET AT THE OVAL THIS SUMMER
By Evie Flynn
IF YOU’VE ever eyed up the famous Kia Oval for a sun-soaked day of sport in South London, there’s even more to look forward to this summer. For the first time in its history, Surrey has launched a fully professional women’s team, marking a major milestone for cricket in the capital.
Women’s cricket at this historic ground has been revolutionised with the addition of a brand-new professional women’s squad led by captain Bryony Smith, bringing fresh talent and a whole new energy.
The Kia Oval is Surrey Cricket Club’s home ground and is known as ‘The Home of T20 Cricket’, where 100,000 descend on South London throughout June and July.
The team will play in a series of T20 double headers and standalone matches against county teams from all over the country, as part of the Vitality T20 Blast.
The 2025 season got off to a strong start with an away win against Somerset on 30th May. The momentum continued with their first double header appearance on 5th June, taking home the win with an impressive 32run victory over Hampshire..
We spoke to the 29-year-old Vice
Captain, Tash Farrant, who got her debut wicket in Thursday’s match.
Her cricket journey began at just eight-years-old, playing for the boy’s teams throughout her schooling in Kent.
Tash currently plays for the Oval Invincibles and England, and has made numerous international appearances.
“The Oval definitely feels like my home ground,” Tash told us, “I think it’s the best ground in the world, without fail.”
Although women’s cricket isn’t new
to the Oval, with the Oval Invincibles and The South East Stars playing there over the years, this season marks a transformation in the world of women’s cricket.
“The girls that have played for Surrey before have definitely laid the foundations for us.” Tash said. “Although, it definitely is a new era and it’s great to be one single club with the lads as well.”
Tash reminisced on the transformational journey women’s
cricket has had throughout her career, with the ECB first providing professional contracts to just eighteen women’s England players in 2014.
She said: “It’s honestly hard to put into words the change in women’s cricket, especially within the last five or ten years. It’s incredible and it’s definitely a fast-growing sport.”
Every player in the new squad brings their own story woven to the Surrey badge and the lineup features exciting names in the world of cricket.
Captain Bryony Smith Captain, who has played for Surrey since she was nine, became the first professional signing of this new era. She’s joined by the likes of 17-year-old Tilly Corteen-Coleman, the youngest player to debut in The Hundred and is certainly one to watch.
“We’ve got an eclectic mix of players,” said Tash. “We really pride ourselves on making sure everyone can be themselves.
“We’re a very high performing team and we want to be the highest performing side in the country in women’s Tier 1 Cricket.”
Tash urged local fans and to support the women’s fixtures throughout summer.
Match day at the Oval is exciting and budget friendly, with food stands,
mascots and interval entertainment.
For a standalone women’s match, tickets are priced at £10 for adults and just £1 for under 16s.
For Double Header days, £30 per ticket gains you access to both the Women’s and Men’s matches.
“We’re as talented as the boys but obviously they are very different games,” Tash added.
“It’s really important to us that people come down to our standalone games at the Kia Oval as well and even if you don’t love cricket, it’s just a great day out.”
The Surrey Women’s team’s next appearances at the Kia Oval:
• Wednesday 18th June 2pm-
Surrey Women V Lancashire
• Sunday 6th July 12pm-
Surrey Women V Essex
• Sunday 13th July 11am-
Surrey Women V Somerset
• Friday 18th July 6:30pmSurrey Women V Birmingham Bears
• Sunday 27th July 12:30pmWomen’s Finals Day
To book tickets to see the women play: For those wanting to get involved in cricket in the area, visit: www.surreycricketfoundation.org/
Tash Farrant
Surrey cricket whole team
Tilly CorteenColeman
DEMOLITION OF PART OF THE AYLESBURY ESTATE FOR REDEVELOPMENT APPROVED WITH PLANS FOR 640 FLATS
EXCLUSIVE
By Issy Clarke
COUNCILLORS HAVE rubberstamped the demolition of part of the Aylesbury Estate in Walworth to make way for a developer’s plans to construct 640 new homes.
Notting Hill Genesis (NHG) is developing the sprawling Walworth estate, and received permission on Thursday, 4 June for its plans to build 640 flats across five buildings, including a 26-storey tower on the corner of Albany Street and Thurlow Road.
50 per cent of ‘habitable rooms’ in the development - which excludes ‘functional’ areas such as kitchens and bathrooms - will be set at affordable rents, split between 173 set at social rents and 89 intermediate.
262 of the units, around 40 per cent of the development, will be set at affordable rents, down from 315 in the existing estate - a net loss of 53 homes.
The majority of units – 84 per cent – will be one and two-bedroom flats. 49 fourbedroom homes in the development will be set at affordable rents, as well as 11 five-bedroom homes.
During the meeting, an objector from local housing campaign group
Fight4Aylesbury called on councillors to reject the planning application, telling the committee: “(The development) entails a net loss of social housing, it fails to factor in embodied carbon, and it fails to consider the refurbishment option”, and called on the committee to “consider an alternative option to demolition”.
The majority of units – 84 per cent – will be one and two-bedroom flats. 49 fourbedroom homes in the development will be set at affordable rents, as well as 11 five-bedroom homes.
During the meeting, an objector from local housing campaign group
Fight4Aylesbury called on councillors to reject the planning application, telling the
committee: “(The development) entails a net loss of social housing, it fails to factor in embodied carbon, and it fails to consider the refurbishment option”, and called on the committee to “consider an alternative option to demolition”.
She added: “I know residents from my ward who are in temporary accommodation in Aylesbury have encountered structural issues.”
An objector, Luke Plowden, replied: “There is no evidence behind the report’s claim that the building is unviable. I think that what has happened is that the building has not been maintained. Retrofit and refurbishment is a much cheaper, more effective option than demolition - it is cheaper and saves a huge amount of carbon.”
Southwark Council granted NHG outline planning permission to demolish and redevelop the 2,700-apartment council estate in 2015.
In January 2023, the second phase
of the estate’s redevelopment (Phase 2b) received a setback after Aylesbury resident Aysen Dennis took NHG to court and won over the developer’s insertion of the word ‘severable’ into its original planning permission.
Ayesn’s lawyers claimed this would have allowed the developer to make changes to the planning application without reapplying for permission. The lawyers said this amendment allowed NHG to submit plans to build a 26-storey tower on Phase 2B – taller than what was originally agreed.
In the aftermath of the legal challenge, the developer went back to the drawing board and introduced a new set of plans - including an increase in the number of new flats from 614 to 640, and the number of the cheapest social rent homes upped from 163 to 173.
Cllr Kieron Williams, leader of Southwark Council, said: “I’m delighted to see these new high-quality, safe, and warm
homes given the green light to go ahead on the Aylesbury Estate. It is vital that the estate renewal continues to progress, delivering affordable, decent housing and green spaces for Southwark residents, including existing Aylesbury residents and those on our housing waiting list.
“This next phase of the renewal includes the delivery of 173 much-needed social rent homes, including four and five bedroom properties which will be transformative for local families. We will continue to work closely with Notting Hill Genesis going forward as these homes get built.
“Aylesbury residents are already
benefiting from new facilities on the estate including a new community centre, health centre and library, and the 581 new council homes on the First Development Site. I look forward to seeing Phase 2b being delivered, with all of the benefits it will bring for local people.”
Matthew Cornwall-Jones, chief homes officer at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “Securing planning approval for Phase 2b is a significant milestone in the regeneration of the Aylesbury estate. We remain committed to delivering highquality, energy-efficient homes that meet the needs of local families.
“This phase will not only provide muchneeded affordable housing but also create vibrant public spaces, ensuring Aylesbury is a place where everyone feels welcome. We look forward to continuing our work with Southwark and the wider community to bring this vision to life.”
‘KENT COUNTY LINES DRUG DEALER’ FROM BERMONDSEY JAILED
He claimed Louis Vuitton bag and high-end accessories were ‘gifted by friends so he could look good in the gym’
By Kevin Quinn
A DRUG dealer from Bermondsey, who supplied drugs in Kent claimed his luxurious lifestyle was funded by ‘hairdressing and managing musicians’.
Babutunde Ososipewas, 31, caught with £10,000 he had actually earned dealing cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, Valium, Xanadol, and ecstasy pills across the market town of Tonbridge for eight months.
Kent Police said he was part of county lines operation that targeted drug users through WhatsApp marketing messages between March and November 2024. He was arrested in a joint effort between Kent Police and the Metropolitan Police during an early morning raid on
November 29, where officers found cash and a diamond necklace stashed in a shoe. They also discovered a knife hidden in the dealer’s laundry basket, as well as multiple mobile phones, a bullet, diamond-encrusted ring and Louis Vuitton bag.
Ososipe denied his involvement and alleged his friends had lent him the highend accessories so he could ‘look good in the gym’ on his birthday.
He was later charged with five counts of being concerned in the supply of drugs and pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court.
He was later sentenced to five years and ten months’ behind bars at the same court on Monday, June 2.
Investigation officer, Dc Chloe Chapman
of Kent Police, said Ososipe’s ‘creative’ explanations could not account for the incriminating evidence. She said: “Ososipe attempted several creative explanations to account for incriminating evidence.
“He claimed money was earned through legitimate business endeavours or gifted to him by a family member.
“He alleged the designer bag and highvalue diamond jewellery was lent to him by a local artist and friend so he could look good.
“His explanations were later proven to be fictitious. The lengthy sentence imposed by the judge is reflective of his role in the supply chain.
“He claimed money was earned through legitimate business endeavours or gifted to him by a family member.”
View of the tower from Burgess Park
The Aylesbury Estate is in the middle of a 20-year regeneration programme which began in 2010
Babutunde Ososipewas
EXCLUSIVE
By Issy Clarke
NEXT MONTH will mark a year since Miatta Fahnbulleh swept to victory in Peckham. For months, we has been chasing the MP for an update on her hunt for a constituency office. This week we finally received a response.
The MP told us she was still in the process of searching for a permanent base, adding that financial and security constraints had left her “without huge room for manoeuvre”.
Fahnbulleh is currently working from a shared temporary office space on Rye Lane, and carries out regular coffee mornings and ‘roaming surgeries’ hosted in venues across Peckham.
All London MPs have an office budget of £39,560, but despite being in post for nearly a year and making opening a constituency office a core pledge when she stood as a candidate to take over from Harriet Harman, she says she cannot find one, something a rival to the post called ‘laughable’.
As her search continues, the MP said: “I am confident that the lack of a physical office hasn’t had an impact on the outreach and support we are providing to constituents - and that is certainly the feedback I have received. If you have any evidence to the contrary, I would be really keen to see this.”
A constituency office is a space where MPs can hold surgeries and meet with constituents to discuss casework. MPs are not required to open a constituency office - they can communicate with constituents over the phone or via email. However, pressure group Unlock Democracy says constituency offices are “invaluable” for those who require face-to-face contact.
MP for Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Neil Coyle hosts surgeries in his office every Friday, which he said generally attract “between 20 and 25 constituents”. Throughout the week, he estimates that a further 25 people will normally drop in to discuss an issue with Coyle or a member of his team. When asked if he felt not having an office would impede his ability to provide support to his constituents, Coyle replied, “Of course. Ten years in, I can’t imagine being able to do my role without having an office.”
Helen Hayes, who represents Dulwich and West Norwood, does not publicly advertise her MP surgeries, instead hosting “drop-in sessions” around her constituency, with constituents interested in attending encouraged to email her office ahead of time. Ellie Reeves, MP for Lewisham West and East Dulwich, does have a local office, but constituents must book in advance.
Florence Eshalomi, MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green, did not respond to our request for comment.
We also tried ringing Eshalomi using the contact number advertised on her House of Commons webpage three times, but were directed straight to voicemail on each occasion.
But while Fahnbulleh is not the only one of Southwark’s MPs to lack a bricks-and-mortar constituency office, she is unique in placing the establishment of a permanent base at the heart of her election bid.
During the July 2024 election campaign, Fahnbulleh drew up a list of four key pledges, with the commitment to establish a local office
PECKHAM MP MIATTA FAHNBULLEH SAYS SHE IS STILL STRUGGLING TO FIND A CONSTITUENCY OFFICE IN THE AREA ON A £39,560 A YEAR BUDGET
taking top billing.
The promise read: “I will open a constituency office so we have a hub in the community, hold regular surgeries and work with the Council, community groups, trade unions and local members to deliver change locally.”
We previously reported that Fahnbulleh made finding a constituency office a priority as early as 2022 when she was first selected as Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Peckham.
Her promise tapped into lingering dissatisfaction with Harriet Harman, MP for Peckham and Camberwell between 1982 and 2016, who did not have a local office, and avoided giving a clear answer when Southwark News asked why, and for how long, this had been the case.
Fahnbulleh is not alone in her struggle to find suitable premises for her constituency operations - other newly elected MPs across the country have faced similair difficulties, blamed a combination of high rents and stringent security requirements.
The Labour party does not have an official policy requiring new MPs to open constituency offices, partly due to the considerable difficulty encountered by many representatives seeking to identify a secure,
accessible location.
As of 2025/26, MPs in London are given £39,560 a year by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) to cover the cost of running an office, which extends beyond rent. Those representing constituencies outside of London receive £35,930 a year.
Claire Sheppard, the Green party candidate who came second in the
parliamentary contest for Peckham last July, said: “The idea that you can’t find an office in Peckham for less than £39,000 a year is laughable.”
Sheppard earmarked 151 Rye Lane as a potential space when she was running to be the area’s MP - a firstfloor office unit currently listed at £22,000 a year on Rightmove.
We asked Fahnbulleh if she had looked into this space, and were told
MP Neil Coyle ‘s office was pelted with eggs
it had been explored as a potential venue, but that “the rent plus running costs and business rates were well above what’s affordable within the IPSA budget. The same was true for a similar property further up Rye Lane.”
We also submitted an enquiry to Peckham Levels, a coworking and performance venue on Rye Lane, and we were given details of five private offices costing less than £24,000 a
year.
Fahnbulelh said she had “looked at spaces in Peckham Levels, but unfortunately these didn’t meet the necessary requirements in terms of accessibility, security or confidentiality”.
“I completely understand the security concerns” Claire Sheppard told us. “The polarisation of the political discourse in recent years
does make it more nerve-wracking to face the public - but I think [engaging with voters] is the most important job a constituency MP can do.”
Fahnbulleh did share that her team were “far along in the process with one potential space, and I’m hopeful we’ll be able to finalise an agreement soon, but until that’s confirmed, I’m not in a position to share the details publicly.”
number of crimes reported by MPs to the police increased by 126 per cent, rising from 151 to 342. In its 2022-23 annual report, the House of Commons assessed that “the threat to MPs has increased and remains substantial.”
These threats can range from the potentially life-threatening - Mike Freer, the former Conservative MP for Finchley and Golders Green, stood down last July after an arson attack on his office - to the seemingly trivial.
In 2023, Bermondsey MP Neil Coyle issued a call-out on X for help in tracking down the “Gollum lookalike” who pelted his Jamaica Road office with eggs.
But despite Coyle’s amusing spin on the episode, it veiled his more serious concerns about the implications of the attack on his ability to maintain a visible community presence.
He told us at the time: “Local people know they can see me – and I try to be as accessible and open as possible, but attacks like this force the security services, MPs and the police to limit access.”
IPSA has a set of guidelines to help MPs conduct their hunt for an office. They are advised to opt for offices on the first or second floor of a building, or within shopping centres or managed office blocks with existing security measures. Those renting out ground-floor premises are encouraged to install retractable steel shutters.
An IPSA spokesperson added MPs were also advised to explore “more affordable spaces away from the High Street, opting to hire venues for engagement with constituents, or renting or subletting from their local party.”
We asked Southwark Council if there had been any discussions with Fahnbulleh’s team about using space within the council’s Tooley Street buildings as a temporary constituency office, and if it owned buildings in Peckham which could be leased to the MP.
After sending four separate emails and almost a month after submitting our initial enquiry, we were told by a spokesperson that the council did not have a comment on whether it had been approached about a possible Peckham MP office.
We have also recently learnt that Southwark’s MPs must pay business rates on their offices. Coyle told us he was moving to a smaller office on Jamaica Road after allegedly losing a long-running fight with the council to exempt his office from the council’s attempted application of business rates.
Business rates are listed as an “allowable cost” which MPs can claim back as part of their IPSA budget.
A Southwark Council spokesperson said: “MPs’ offices are treated in the same way as any other office under business rate regulations, which are set nationally.
“Many MPs qualify for business rate relief as they can apply for ‘small business’ relief. This is based on the size of their office.”
Scheme.
“IPSA reviews MPs’ office costs budget every year, taking into account economic indicators and market information, before setting an annual budget which ensures each MP can access an appropriate level of funding.”
A London Labour spokesperson said: “Constituency offices are a matter for individual MPs, who are required to operate within the regulations set by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), the independent body that oversees MPs’ expenses and sets an MP’s budget.
“Miatta’s team is actively working alongside IPSA to secure a constituency office that serves the needs of residents within the expenses framework set by IPSA. In the meantime, Miatta and her team are accessible to constituents who require support, both over email and at regular surgeries and coffee mornings, which are held both virtually and roaming within the community.”
In response to our query, Miatta Fahnbulleh said: “I’m actively working to secure a permanent constituency office in the constituency that sits within the IPSA budget I’m allocated. My total annual budget for office space, utility and other bills, business rates, all office equipment, print, communications, events, space hire for community engagement is £39,000. So that doesn’t give me huge room for manoeuvre.
“We’re far along in the process with one potential space, and I’m hopeful we’ll be able to finalise an agreement soon, but until that’s confirmed, I’m not in a position to share the details publicly.
“In the meantime, I’ve made sure I’m accessible to residents across the constituency. We currently share a temporary office space on Rye Lane, and my team and I conduct multiple community visits every week, as documented on my social media channels.
“We are holding roaming surgeries at our food banks, community centres and with TRAs. We are local events and dropping into coffee mornings across the area to pick up casework. I also run regular advice surgeries with Citizens Advice at Pecan and offer virtual appointments upon request.
“My contact details — including phone and email — are publicly available online for anyone who needs support. So I am confident that the lack of a physical office hasn’t had an impact on the outreach and support we are providing to constituents - and that is certainly the feedback I have received. If you have any evidence to the contrary, I would be really keen to see this.
The security of MPs has become a particularly potent concern in recent years. In 2016, Labour MP for Batley and Spenn, Jo Cox, was brutally murdered outside a library where she was about to hold a constituency surgery. In 2021, the Conservative MP David Amess was fatally stabbed while holding an MP surgery in his constituency of Southend in Essex. Between 2017 and 2018 the
An IPSA Spokesperson said: “IPSA supports MPs in finding suitable constituency offices, including offering advice on how to secure properties which fit within their budgets.
“This could include looking at more affordable spaces away from the High Street, opting to hire venues for engagement with constituents, or renting or subletting from their local party – all while meeting the necessary requirements under our
“On the locations you mentioned. We did view 151 Rye Lane, but the rent plus running costs and business rates was well above what’s affordable within the IPSA budget. The same was true for a similar property further up Rye Lane. We’ve also looked at spaces in Peckham Levels, but unfortunately, they didn’t meet the necessary requirements in terms of accessibility, security or confidentiality.
“I understand the importance of having a permanent office at the heart of the community, and I’m committed to getting this right, ensuring it’s genuinely fit for purpose and serves the local people well.”
Miatta Fahnbulleh out and about in her Peckham constituency
CRACKDOWN ON FARE DODGERS AS NEW TV SERIES TRACES OFFICERS ON THE GROUND
By Issy Clarke
AS FARE evasion on public transport continues to spiral, TfL has deployed a network of professional investigators and plain-clothes officers to crack down on repeat offenders.
Around 500 uniformed ‘revenue control officers’ work alongside an undisclosed number of plain-clothes officers employed by TfL to patrol the entire network, including the Underground, Overground, buses, DLR, Trams and the Elizabeth Line.
If they catch sight of a passenger attempting to evade the tube fare, they have the power to demand proof of a valid Oyster Card, ticket or bank card. Working in the background is a force
Flyer_A5.pdf 1 12/10/2021 22:35
of professional investigators who keep tabs on persistent fare-dodgers who manage to slip through the net, and pass on intelligence to the officers working on the ground who can to catch them red-handed.
The series – Fare Dodgers: At War with the Law – traces officers on the ground as they bring repeated offenders to task.
The teams have managed to slash fare evasion from 3.8 per cent to 3.4 per cent in just a year – compared to the 13 per cent rate on New York’s subways.
The first episode depicts TfL officers at Surrey Quays station apprehending a man who had been repeatedly using an expired bank card to travel.
The bank card appeared as valid on TfL’s systems because payment methods are only verified at the end of
each day when total fares are calculated and payments are extracted.
This meant when TfL tried to pull the amount owed from the card, it was unable to do so – because the bank balance was empty.
Plain-clothes officers approached the man as he exited the ticket gates at Surrey Quays station using the dodgy bank card.
Caught in the act, he attempts to exonerate himself, insisting: “It’s not mine – I found it.” But, after consulting TfL’s internal systems, inspectors found the man had been using the card to travel for more than a year.
Later on, the man signed a document in which he admitted to evading fares on over 500 journeys, accruing £3,573 in unpaid charges.
This was just one of the egregious tactics used by bold fare evaders attempting to cheat the system – an earlier episode shows a man who repeatedly used his female relative’s Freedom Pass more than 200 times.
The Freedom Pass exempts Londoners over 66 from the tube fare, and also includes those with certain disabilities or who are told by the DVLA they cannot drive.
Officers used ITAP to link the man’s journeys to the pass, and eventually caught him in the act at Preston Road station on the Metropolitan Line.
The man tried to hide the pass from investigators, protesting: “Which pass? I don’t have any pass? Only my card.”
After a back-and-forth with officers, he was told his failure to own up would
lead his case to be passed onto British Transport Police as fraud.
The case was ultimately handed over to prosecutors, who took responsibility for reclaiming £1,000 in avoided tube fines.
ITAP (Irregular Travel Analysis Platform) is the system used by TfL officers to capture fare evasion and revenue loss based on patterns in ticketing and passenger data.
It tracks Oyster and Contactless payments to build up a picture of where fare-evaders travel – so officers can be in the right place at the right time to pounce.
In the last year, the system has reimbursed TfL with £400,000 of unpaid fares after taking 360 persistent offenders to court.
By Ruby Gregory Local Democracy Reporter
SOUTH LONDONERS opposed to a £650,000 council proposal to remove parking which they say will disrupt livelihoods have begun protesting for the third time in a matter of months
Residents and businesses on Amesbury Avenue in Streatham have taken to the street again to block access as they fear Lambeth Council is about to start working on the project after spotting ‘no parking’ signs pop up last week.
The latest protests, which started on Wednesday, June 4, mark the third time they have taken place since April after locals sealed off the road with fake crime scene tape to stop workers from entering and making a start on the scheme.
Local campaigners believe the scheme, which would replace parking spaces with planters and seating –known as parklets – on Amesbury Avenue, will have a negative impact on local businesses and will make life harder for vulnerable residents, including those who live directly above the shops.
For almost two years, local campaigners say they have “repeatedly” tried to engage in talks with the council over the current proposals, which they claim they weren’t properly consulted on.
Despite their attempts to contact the council, campaigners say they have been met with “a wall of silence”.
This latest protest comes just days after a High Court judge has quashed the LTN in West Dulwich and denied Lambeth Council the opportunity to appeal the ruling.
On May 9, High Court Judge Tim Smith ruled that the council’s installation of the Low Traffic Neighbourhood between Rosendale and Norwood Road was unlawful, on the grounds that concerns raised by some residents and businesses had not been properly considered. The decision left open the possibility that the scheme could be quashed altogether
Lambeth Council had applied for permission to appeal against the High Court ruling, but the new Court Order means Lambeth Council will have to scrap the LTN, as well as pay West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG), the group of residents which brought the challenge, £35,000 towards their legal fees (see our article on page 13).
In Streatham Petra Kjell Wright told the Local Democracy Reporting Service
RESIDENTS CONTINUE TO BLOCK OFF STREET TO STOP PARKING SPACES WITH SEATING
(LDRS): “We’re completely in the dark, we don’t know if the scheme is going ahead. But it seems like [it is] because the yellow parking signs have gone up again but in a slightly different pattern than before. We cannot see any other reason why they would have gone up.
“We recognise this area needs an upgrade, and we’re really grateful that Lambeth Council has a budget but there are issues with the scheme. It’s not realistic, it’s not sustainable, there’s also technical errors with what the council is proposing – we need to know that they’ve been addressed.”
Berhe Tsegay, who runs a laundrette on the street, previously told the LDRS that reducing the amount of parking for customers on Amesbury Avenue would “destroy” his business.
He said: “If this project goes ahead, my business will be completely destroyed. We have customers from the local community. How are they going to carry their items if there’s no parking for vehicles?”
On plans to replace some parking spots with planters and seating, Berhe said: “There’s a park two streets away from here. We don’t need a parklet. It will attract alcoholics. If the council wants to help, they could do lots to improve the outside lights and to do maintenance to council flats [on the street].”
Lin Clarke, a resident who has lived in the area for over 40 years and has been outside from 6am this week to protest and stop any work from happening, said the community is on “high alert”.
Lin said: “[The council] is not listening to us, if they had a consultation with us properly, they would hear what we’re saying. We’re not against everything but we need to work with you.”
She added: “It is really upsetting, I’ve lived here over 40 years, and we’re a happy little lot. What we need is the
pavement to be redone because it’s all higgledy piggledy and broken, we need that done and [we need] a couple of lights. We don’t mind the trees but don’t destroy our little community because we’re not going to be able to cope if we haven’t got the loading space.”
Tony McDermott is a resident who, like Lin, has lived in the area for 40 years, said: “We’ve got no confirmation whatsoever on anything and what’s happening – it’s quite poor on Lambeth Council’s part.
“We want to know what’s going on in
our community and I believe as we live here, we have the right to know what’s going on in our community. We’re not saying we don’t want anything done, that isn’t the case. What we’re actually saying is ‘let us help you design what we need as a community’ which I think is only fair.”
Mr McDermott went on to say residents had only seen proposals and not proper “plans”, which for the last 18 months they say they have been trying to get hold of. He added: “Show us the plans, not the proposal because at the
moment all we’ve got is still only the proposal, the proposed sketch.
“We haven’t seen the finished outcome yet, the council is reluctant to show us. Why are they reluctant to show us? What is the council doing that they don’t want us to see? This is what our fight is, it’s a crazy one.”
A petition created by Petra earlier this year in January opposing the current proposals has amassed 367 signatures.
Lambeth Council had not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication.
Residents from Amesbury Avenue in Streatham, South London protesting on April 22, 2025. CREDIT: Robert Firth
Residents Tony McDermott. CREDIT: Robert Firth
By Issy Clarke
HUNDREDS OF protestors took to the streets of Peckham on Saturday, May 31, once more to campaign against a developer’s decision to bypass Southwark Council over its plans to transform the Aylesham Centre into flats.
Berkeley Homes wants to build almost 900 homes on the Rye Lane site spread across towers ranging up to 20 storeys in height – just 12 per cent of which would be set at affordable rents.
Campaigners affiliated with SHAPE (Southwark Housing and Planning Emergency) called for developments on private land to contain a minimum of 50 per cent affordable housing, rising to 100 per cent affordability on publicly owned land, and advocated for a fundamental root and branch change to Britain’s planning and housing system.
Eileen Conn, the founder of Peckham Vision, said: “The development is simply investment for people who want to park their money somewhere relatively safe. This is beyond Berkeley Homes and Peckham. There’s something seriously wrong with the way the planning and housing system works in Britain.”
Last month, the developer issued an appeal on the grounds of nondetermination, meaning the application will now skip the council’s planning committee and go straight to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration.
The decision was criticised by Southwark Council, which said it was “very disappointed” and added that its planning committee would assess
HUNDREDS OF HOUSING PROTESTORS TAKE TO THE STREETS OF PECKHAM
Berkeley’s application regardless. Responding to the developer’s decision last month, Cllr Helen Dennis, the Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, said: “There is significant public interest in this complex planning application and it was due to go to planning committee next month. A report on the planning application will go to our planning committee as planned and the committee’s decision on the report will set out the council’s case for the appeal.
“The council met all the relevant timetables for this application and the decision to appeal against “nondetermination” was entirely that of Berkeley Homes. The decision by Berkeley Homes to reduce the affordable housing offer to 12% from the previously proposed 35% was the reason the council had to reconsult on the scheme this year.”
On June 7, the campaigners will take
their fight to the national stage, with plans to take part in a march through Westminster in protest against the planning system organised by a national coalition of protest groups, Homes 4 All. Berkeley Homes submitted a planning application last summer to build nearly 900 homes on the site of the Aylesham Shopping Centre in Peckham.
In December last year, the developer lowered the proportion of affordable housing to 12 per cent, down from 35 per cent, lowering the number of affordable homes on the site from 270 to 77.
Southwark Council’s planning policies say that all new developments must provide a minimum of 35 per cent affordable homes, subject to viability assessments run by planning officers and the developer.
Local people have repeatedly taken to the streets in recent months in protest
against the huge reduction in the number of affordable homes.
Peckham’s elected representatives have also waded into the debate, with local MP Miatta Fahnbulleh and Rye Lane’s Labour ward councillors calling on the developer to increase the number of affordable homes on the site.
Local heritage campaigners recently submitted an official objection to the planning application, claiming the development would “harm the historic character” of Peckham.
They wrote: “The Aylesham site is so central, and so large, that its development will change Peckham as a place and profoundly affect the lives of the Peckham community and economy for decades to come.
“The proposal will have a massive physical impact on the town centre and the application makes no attempt to
disguise this.”
A Berkeley Homes company spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting service that under the terms of a Planning Performance Agreement with the council, the agreed determination period for the application expired on January 31, 2025, adding ‘no extension has been requested by the council’. They said: “This is a site that has been earmarked for housing for 11 years now. Two previous developers failed to come up with a workable project. We have been working with the council, local residents and businesses for four years and have sought to accommodate everyone’s wishes, as far as possible, along the way, while keeping the project viable.
“After all this time, effort and money, if Berkeley is to build homes, we have no other option but to appeal for nondetermination.”
Kennington residents call on council to reject developer’s plans for 17-storey student tower replacing old job centre
By Issy Clarke
CAMPAIGNERS HAVE called on Lambeth Council to reject proposals for a 17-storey tower block overlooking a Grade-2 listed park in Kennington.
The skyscraper, proposed by developer Standard Securities Ltd, would replace the Job Centre Plus building on Kennington Park Road. It will contain almost 200 student rooms, with the ground floor and first floor to be used as offices.
The deadline for public objections to the planning application is this Friday (June 6). Of 449 comments submitted so far, 401 object to the scheme and 39 support it.
Build Better Kennington 409, a group of local residents opposed to the development, claim the tower is “too tall” for the area and would loom over the surrounding low rise buildings
which range between 2-4 storeys in height.
They say the development would be visible from most of the surrounding Conservation Area covering Kennington’s 18th century Georgian terraced houses - a status which confers extra planning protections on areas of architectural importance - and that it would “dwarf” Grade-2 listed Kennington Park.
Other concerns raised by objectors included the potential loss of sunlight to surrounding properties, the narrowing of the pavement at the busy junction with Kennington Park Road, and the lack of social and affordable housing.
A spokesperson for Standard Securities Ltd said: “The team has worked really hard to create a high-quality design that reflects the character of the local area, revitalises this important corner, and provides much-needed student housing. 191 student rooms will ease pressure on
the private rental market by freeing up family homes and our application will contribute toward affordable housing.
“We think the site is appropriate for these proposals, as it’s close to two underground stations and surrounding emerging taller developments.
“A full daylight and sunlight report has been carried out, confirming compliance with national guidelines and minimal impact on neighbouring buildings. The ground floor architecture and building lines have been designed to improve the pedestrian experience along Kennington Road and Kennington Park Road, redefining the road junction and making better use of the public space.
“The proposals also include multiple entrances and high-quality glazing to activate the building frontage, improve safety, and enhance the overall feel of the street. We believe it will be a positive addition to the area.”
‘NEXT GENERATION NIGHTINGALES’ RECOGNISED FOR FIRST TIME
NURSING ASSISTANTS, maternity support workers, healthcare assistants and nursing associates have, for the first time, been honoured with Guy’s and St Thomas’ prestigious Nightingale Award for providing exceptional care. The unique professional commendation, inspired by Florence Nightingale, celebrates outstanding nursing and midwifery staff.
This year the Nightingale Award has
been presented to 17 nursing assistants, maternity support workers, healthcare assistants and nursing associates. They were joined by 80 nurses and 5 midwives who were presented with the coveted Nightingale Nurse and Nightingale Midwife award at the annual ceremony.
Winners have the honour of being known as a ‘Nightingale Nurse’, ‘Nightingale Midwife’ and ‘Next Generation Nightingale’.
This elite group of professional
nursing and midwifery staff has grown in number to 550 since it was first launched at the Trust in 2017. Staff must complete specialist training to receive the honour.
Deborah Ababio, a healthcare assistant at Harefield Hospital, which is part of Guy’s and St Thomas’, has worked at the Trust for 2 years. She is based on Rowan ward, supporting heart and lung transplant patients. Deborah said: “I’m so glad to be part of this first group of assistants
Keeping families together with transitional care
A NEW, midwifery-led unit has been launched to support newborns who need extra care to stay with their families and to go home sooner.
The transitional care unit (TCU) at Evelina London provides care for babies who do not need intensive care, but require treatments like intravenous antibiotics or jaundice
management. They are supported to stay overnight on the unit with their parents.
Collaboration between the TCU and the neonatal outreach team has enabled some newborns to receive treatments at home. Through regular visits, the team can also provide other advice, like feeding support, to reduce new parents’ worries.
Elections to the Council of Governors results
GUY’S AND St Thomas’ congratulated its newly elected governors, and thanked all candidates who stood for election. The full results of the Council of Governors elections are available at https://shorturl.at/YWedX For queries regarding the election process, email: gstt.members@.nhs.net
receiving the Nightingale Award. It makes me feel proud that our hard work and effort is considered, and that all my education is being recognised.
“This award will serve as a positive reminder of the impact I can make on patients’ lives. It inspires me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my work.”
Liz Allibone, Head of Nursing for the Nightingale Academy at Guy’s and St Thomas’, said: “These awards are special. It’s about celebrating the
legacy of Florence Nightingale who set up the first school of nursing in the world at St Thomas’. Award winners are given an engraved badge, and they wear it with pride. It gives recipients the confidence to pursue further academic studies, is recognition, and most of all it’s that sense of belonging.”
The event is funded by The Nightingales Fellowship, a charity for retired Nightingale nurses and midwives who trained at St Thomas’ Hospital.
Patients and staff meet The King
PATIENTS, FAMILIES and staff from Guy’s Cancer attended a royal reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by The King and Queen. The event celebrated communitybased initiatives raising awareness about cancer and supporting those living with cancer.
Geoff May, who was treated for tonsil
cancer at the Cancer Centre at Guy’s and is now a fundraiser for Guy’s Cancer Charity, was invited to the special day.
At the event, Geoff introduced Sarah Cleary, Cancer CNS workforce project lead at the Trust, to The King.
The dedicated patient fundraiser said: “I don’t know how I would have got through my cancer without the dedication of staff like Sarah.”
Nightingale Award winners
Brockwell Hall is now open again thanks to a transformative £7.7 million investment from Lambeth Council, including £3.9 million funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and support of the Brockwell Park Community Partners. Be among the first to experience the timeless charm of this historic venue, which is beautifully restored to blend heritage with modern elegance. Whether you're planning a private celebration, a corporate or community event or simply want to explore, Brockwell Hall offers the perfect setting for any occasion. Book your event today and become part of the next chapter in Brockwell Hall’s rich history.
Established in 1813, Brockwell Hall is a stunning Grade II* listed Georgian Mansion House set centrally within the grounds of the historic Brockwell Park, surrounded by over 125 acres of abundant nature, with panoramic views of the City. Offering a variety of multipurpose spaces, Brockwell Hall is the ideal location for celebrations, conferences, and community events, with the capacity to accommodate up to 200 guests.
Contact us: venues@lambeth.gov.uk
@venuelambeth
She has lost almost half her bodyweight since starting the strike
By Issy Clarke
THE MOTHER of a British-Egyptian activist who she says is wrongfully imprisoned in Egypt is at risk of ‘sudden death’ as her blood sugar levels have plummeted to a level so low that they can’t be picked up by hospital tests.
Laila Soueif, 69, began her hunger strike on September 29th 2024, the day her son Alaa Abd el-Fattah was supposed to be released from prison. Since then, she has lost 36kg – 42% of her starting body weight, and now weighs 49kg. She is now on day 248 of her hunger strike.
On June 1, Laila’s blood sugar levels dropped below 0.6mmol/L – too low to be picked up by hosptial tests. Her ketones level, measuring blood acidity, rose above 7 mmol/L, indicating levels
Laila at a meeting with the Prime Minister on 14 Feburary
DESPERATE MOTHER AT RISK OF ‘SUDDEN DEATH’ AFTER EIGHT MONTHS ON HUNGER STRIKE
of blood acidity also too high to be detected by medical tests.
A consultant doctor at St Thomas’ Hospital on May 31 warned that a
She is also warned that without
glucose treatment there is a ‘clear risk’ of ‘irreversible damage to organs including heart, brain and kidneys’. Laila is refusing glucose treatment as part of her hunger strike.
The doctor also said that Laila’s blood sugar levels ‘would not typically be compatible with consciousness’ and that her ‘body’s stores of carbohydrate are essentially expended’. They warn Laila of ‘acidity of the blood’ and that Laila’s body is relying ‘on the little fat you have remaining for energy’.
Sanaa Seif, Laila’s daughter, said it was a “miracle” that her mother was still alive.
She said: “Bottom line is we’re losing her, and we’re really, really, like, there is no time. Like, Keir Starmer needs to act now. Not tomorrow, not Monday. Now. Right now. It’s a miracle that last night passed. It’s a miracle that we still have her. I’m really, really proud of my Mum. And I want to remind Keir Starmer of his promise to us. We put our faith in him. Don’t let us down, do something and do it today. Now.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said at Prime Minister’s Questions on 21 May that he had “met Laila and given her my commitment to do everything I possibly can. I have had a number of contacts myself but I’m not going to stop doing everything within my power to secure release.”
Last Thursday, 22nd May, Keir Starmer once again spoke to President Sisi of Egypt and “pressed for the urgent release of British national Alaa Abd El-Fattah so that he can be reunited with his family.” The Prime Minister “underlined how important it is to him to bring an end to the anguish Alaa and his family have faced.”
Alaa Abd el-Fattah is also on his 92nd day of hunger strike, consuming nothing but herbal tea, black coffee and rehydration salts, in Wadi El-Natrun prison in Egypt. He began the hunger strike when Laila Soueif was last hospitalised in February.
On Wednesday, 28th May, it was announced that the United Nations’ Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (UNWGAD) have ruled that Alaa Abd elFattah is arbitrarily detained in Egypt and that Egyptian authorities therefore have an obligation to release him immediately under international law.
The High Court quashes the West Dulwich Low Traffic Neighbourhood and forbids Lambeth from launching appeal
By Issy Clarke
A HIGH Court judge has quashed the Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) in West Dulwich and denied Lambeth Council the opportunity to appeal the ruling.
On May 9, High Court Judge Tim Smith ruled that the council’s installation of the LTN between Rosendale and Norwood Road was unlawful, on the grounds that concerns raised by some residents and businesses had not been properly considered. The decision left open the possibility that the scheme could be quashed altogether.
Yesterday, we reported that Lambeth Council had applied for permission to appeal against the High Court ruling.
But today’s Court Order means Lambeth Council will have to scrap the LTN, as well as pay West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG), the group of
residents which brought the challenge, £35,000 towards their legal fees.
Commenting on the decision to remove the LTN in the aftermath of the May judgement, Deputy High Court Judge Tim Smith said: “Revoking the Orders after I have made a finding of unlawfulness leaves the same impression as would an attempt to resign immediately after one has been fired.”
WDAG group said the Court Order left open “serious questions” around the £1,080,580 in fines issued to motorists since the introduction of the traffic monitoring cameras in Feburary 2024.
A spokesperson for WDAG said: “This ruling is definitive — the LTN was unlawful. The Council has lost, has been denied permission to appeal, and must now face the consequences of what that means. At the top of that list is the
£1 million-plus in fines it issued while the unlawful scheme was in place.
“We now call on Lambeth Council to clarify whether it will refund those fines. This is not just about legality — it’s about fairness and public trust. If the law was broken, the money should be paid back.
“We also urge the Council not to attempt to pursue a second appeal via the Court of Appeal. Doing so would further waste taxpayers’ money and signal that its priority is protecting revenue, not engaging with the community it serves.
“Let’s be clear: this case should never have gone to court. It could have been resolved through proper, respectful dialogue. Instead, Lambeth chose to defend litigation over listening — and the public has paid for it.”
A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “We implemented the West Dulwich Street Improvements to reduce road danger and create a safer and healthier neighbourhood.
friendly places.
“The High Court has ordered the removal of West
“We remain committed to delivering our programme to reduce road danger for those most at-risk and make our streets calmer, more community-
Improvements. No further fines will be issued, and we are removing the scheme as soon as it can be done safely.”
Dulwich Street
West Dulwich LTN © WDAG
‘slight further reduction’ in Laila’s blood sugar levels could lead to ‘rapid loss of consciousness’ and her ‘sudden death’. In the letter from her doctor, Laila is
warned her ‘low blood sugar remains an unaddressed medical emergency’ and that her death is an ‘immediate risk’.
By Issy Clarke
CHANCELLOR RACHEL Reeves is expected to unveil £113 billion for capital spending projects this week, enabled by a relaxation of the government’s fiscal rules. Projects mooted to benefit include East West Rail - connecting Oxford and Cambridge - and the government’s housebuilding scheme. Could the long-awaited extension of the Bakerloo Line feature among them?
HOPES DASHED
Last year, the Bakerloo Line extension was shunned in the government’s Autumn Budget. It was a crushing omission for South London, squashing hopes that shovels could finally break the tarmac - almost 20 years after the project was initially proposed.
Six months on, several developments could make an announcement of funding in the upcoming June spending review more likely.
Earlier this year, the government issued instructions to safeguard the land of the proposed Bakerloo line extension from future development.
Transport for London is midway through a consultation on the launch of a new ‘Bakerloop’ express bus service tracing the path of the extended route, and which could begin ferrying passengers by the end of this year.
Support across the capital for the extension is robust. It has the emphatic backing of Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has already invested £7.6 million in the project, as well as every single London borough from Barnet to Brent.
Londoners overwhelmingly back the Bakerloo Line extension, according to the latest independent research - not just in Southwark, where eight in ten residents back the project, but even as far afield as Harrow, where 76 per cent of respondents have expressed their support.
So could we finally see funding for the project released in two weeks’ time? Daniel Reast, a Research Officer at the Centre for London think tank, is sanguine about the prospect.
“What is really compelling about [the Bakerloo Line extension] is that there is a real united front,” he said.
“All the foundations are very much there and the boroughs are keen to get going. It’s whether the Chancellor thinks there is a good financial case for it.”
A WORLD OUTSIDE LONDON
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is under significant pressure from the party’s Red Wall MPs to direct investment outside London and the southeast, which have been the prime beneficiaries of capital investment in recent years.
Partly, this orientation is narrowly political - after Labour’s drubbing in last month’s local elections, the party is under pressure to defend its right flank against the incursion from Reform UK.
But it also reflects perceived unfairness in the calculation used to determine capital spending allocation, which critics say is biased in favour of regions which are already economically productive.
Within London, there are other projects vying for investment, such as the DLR extension to Thamesmead which, according to Reast, has a “similar profile” to the Bakerloo extension, and is expected to enable
COULD WE FINALLY SEE FUNDING FOR THE BAKERLOO LINE EXTENSION IN THE JUNE SPENDING REVIEW?
the construction of up to 30,000 new homes.
The West London Orbital, from Hounslow to Hendon and West Hampstead, is also awaiting government funding before TfL can initiate construction.
Financially, the Bakerloo Line extension is no small feat. Estimated construction costs have soared since 2007 from £2-3 billion in 2010 to £5-£8 billion - making it one of the UK’s most expensive infrastructure projects of all time.
Dan Reast said the ‘key’ to securing funding for the Bakerloo would be whether the project’s backers could make a compelling argument to the Treasury.
BACKING THE BAKERLOO
In recognition of this landscape, backers of the Bakerloo Line extension have amped up their campaigning efforts in recent weeks. Last month, Southwark, Lewisham, Brent and Westminster councils, in collaboration with Central London Forward and Business for Bakerloo, commissioned a London-wide survey exploring the level of support for the project.
The Back the Bakerloo campaign highlights the economic benefits of the route, which is projected to create 150,000 new jobs, inject £1.5 billion into the UK economy annually and facilitate the construction of 107,000
new homes.
Reast said the most compelling argument in favour of the Bakerloo Line extension was ‘the housing factor’.
“It ties in with the government’s growth missions” he said. “Any commitment to major infrastructure funding is really good for the economy, and if you can unlock land for 100,000 new homes, that is incredibly substantial.”
There are other reasons why the Bakerloo line extension could register high on the government’s list of priorities - including that it would introduce greater connectivity into a region of the capital woefully underserved by the underground network, and timing such work with train upgrades.
The first phase of the project would extend the line to New Cross and Lewisham via the Old Kent Road. The second leg would see the route extended as far as Hayes and Beckenham Junction.
Calls for an upgrade to the ancient trains which rattle through the Bakerloo line’s tunnels could also hasten the announcement of government funding.
Recently, TfL Commissioner Andy Lord called on the government to provide funding for a fleet of replacement trains, following a report in February that the line was in a state
of “managed decline” and at risk of “critical failure”.
While the new trains can be rolled out before work begins on the extension, financially it makes sense to embark on both at the same time, as the new trains will only be able to operate in the old tunnels once the signals have been upgraded.
INSIDE THE WESTMINSTER BUBBLE
When we asked Bermondsey and Rotherhithe MP Neil Coyle if he was pushing the Chancellor Rachel Reeves to include the Bakerloo Line extension among these projects, he responded affirmatively, adding that he had been “trying to make the national case” for the project.
“Rachel’s a good friend - I’ve known her for many years,” he said. “But she has 650 MPs all making the case for projects in their constituency.”
Like Reast, Coyle views national economic arguments as central to making a successful pitch for the Bakerloo line extension.
“I have been trying to link the need for it to broader government policies like the housebuilding programme” said Coyle. “If the government is going to build 1.5 million new homes, it needs to be signing off projects like these.”
But could the prevailing political headwinds be blowing in an unfavourable direction?
“London bashing benefits nobody,” insisted Coyle, adding: “Every pound spent on the line will be made back. It will create jobs in Essex and Yorkshire [where the trains would be built].”
When asked by us if he was more optimistic this time about the prospect of funding for the route, Coyle said the Bakerloo Line extension was “closer than ever”.
BUT HOW CLOSE ARE WE REALLY?
Ultimately, said Daniel Reast, the Bakerloo Line extension will get built eventually. “All these projects - they’re on the books. They will get off the ground - it’s just a matter of making the argument to the Treasury, and linking to the government’s growth missions.”
When pushed to share his prediction, Reast said he was “tentatively optimistic” about the likelihood of a funding announcement, “simply because there has been an accelerated level of advocacy”.
“The research put out by London councils, Central London Forward’s programme... there has been a real groundswell of interest in the extension, and really supportive polling among businesses and residents,” Reast continued.
“I would say it is in a stronger position from a political perspective. From a financial perspective? We’ll have to wait and see.”
Express bus from Elephant and Castle to Lewisham will launch later this year
By Issy Clarke
AN EXPRESS bus route linking Elephant and Castle and Lewisham via the Old Kent Road and New Cross Gate is launching in autumn this year following a consultation in which the majority of residents expressed support for the project.
The route, known as the ‘Bakerloop’, will trace the path of the proposed Bakerloo Line extension, running between Waterloo, Elephant and Castle and Lewisham via Burgess Park, the Old Kent Road and New Cross Gate.
It will add weight to calls for the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to unveil funding for the Bakerloo line extension in the government’s comprehensive spending review, due to be announced as we went to press on Wednesday, June 11.
The route will run every 12 minutes from Monday to Saturday during the daytime, and every 15 minutes on Sundays, evenings and early mornings.
It comes after a consultation run by TfL revealed strong levels of support for the proposal, with 82 per cent of respondents answering that the bus route would be more convenient, and 55 per cent claiming that they would use the bus a few days, or every day, of the week.
The ‘Bakerloop’ will be partly funded by Southwark Council, using money generated from Section 106 agreements paid by developers.
Geoff Hobbs, TfL’s Director of Public Transport Service Planning, said: “It is great to see support for the ‘Bakerloop’ express bus running between Waterloo and Lewisham which would enable us to improve public transport connectivity and capacity between southeast London and central London by delivering some of the same benefits that the Bakerloo line extension would.
Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, said: “Lewisham welcomes the launch of the
Bakerloop bus and thanks the Mayor and TfL for taking action to address the long-standing transport gap in south east London.
“But this must be just the beginning. With growing public support, we will continue to press for the Bakerloo Line Upgrade and Extension – a game-changing project that will mean faster journeys and new opportunities for our community as well as thousands of homes, jobs and economic growth unlocked for the UK.”
EXCLUSIVE
By Issy Clarke
POLICE OFFICERS in Rotherhithe
have been given a car to travel from their temporary base at Southwark Police Station to their patch, after we reported that local policing teams were having to get around using the C10 bus.
The local policing team once based at Seven Islands Leisure was asked to leave their base on March 26, as the site has been earmarked for redevelopment into council homes.
Despite ample warning of the impending closure of the leisure centre for redevelopment, the Met failed to line up an alternative site in advance – meaning officers are currently based at Southwark Police Station on Borough High Street.
We went with MP Neil Coyle last month to measure the amount of time it took to get from the police station to Rotherhithe on the C10 bus.
At the time, we reported that the Met’s guidelines required neighbourhood officers to be no longer than 20 minutes away from any area within their patch. Neighbourhood officers do not routinely travel by police vehicle, and generally get around by bike or on the bus – either the C10 or the 188 from Borough to Rotherhithe.
On an unusually quiet morning during school half term it took 22 minutes – just over the Met’s guidelines.
But we have since seen an extract from the Met’s ‘Public Access Strategy’ published in November 2017, which set a target that Dedicated Ward Officers – the commissioners in charge of leading local policing teams – “should begin their shift no more than 20 minutes walking time away from the ward they patrol, with many much closer.”
Coyle said while it was “useful” that officers had been given a police vehicle, he remained “unconvinced” that senior officers were focused on the issue.
He told us: “It is useful that the local police team are having a base provided longer term through the council’s partnership work with British Land but this is years away and crime levels are too high now, with Canada Water remaining a hotspot.
“The local police team want to be in Rotherhithe and their senior officers needs to show some action
ROTHERHITHE’S POLICE OFFICERS GIVEN A CAR TO GET TO THEIR BEAT
and actually put a shift in to ensure a new base is located until the permanent new home is built. So far, I’m unconvinced that senior officers are on top of this issue.”
We previously reported that the Met were offered several alternative local hubs by Southwark Council and British Land, the developer behind the Canada Water Masterplan. In a letter sent to Neil Coyle and seen by this newspaper, Superintendent of Neighbourhood Policing in Southwark Jim Brockway agreed securing a local base would be “beneficial for both officers and the community”.
The Commander added he was “open to working with British Land and Southwark Council to identify feasible locations” but that any new site would need to meet the force’s IT
and security needs.
A Met spokesperson said: “As with many local teams across the Met, these officers have access to a pool of vehicles to attend calls, patrol the local area and in this case, travel to the ward. This has always been the case and was in place prior to the article being published.”
Commenting on the future of Rotherhithe’s police hub, the
spokesperson said: “We continue to work with partners to identify potential locations that could provide a sustainable base in the area. Until then, the public can be reassured that we continue to police Rotherhithe with patrols throughout the area.”
“We are considering plans around hubs. Our priorities remain to keep Londoners safe.”
By Issy Clarke
THE BISCUIT Factory has been renamed as the Pearl Yard Bermondsey – with a discreet nod to the site’s confectionery past.
The sprawling site on Drummond Road is being redeveloped into 1,600 new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable – with 25 per cent set at social rent and 10 per cent intermediate rent.
During the development phase, the site was referred to by developer Greystar as The Bermondsey Project. Now, with construction work nearing completion, it has been labelled as Pearl Yard Bermondsey, named after the Pearl Biscuit – the first sweet treat to be made at the original Peek Freans biscuit factory.
A map published by the developer detailing nearby public transport links and local markets included Borough Market, Maltby Street Market and Canada Water Market – omitting the Blue Market in South Bermondsey, which sits at the heart of the redevelopment site.
The Pearl Yard Bermondsey website describes the development as “a world-class destination with soul” and as “highly evolved living”, alongside images of a yoga studio, a spa and a sharing plates restaurant. Construction work is set to be fully completed by 2027.
SURREY QUAYS POUNDLAND STORE TO CLOSE NEXT WEEK - WITH HUNDREDS MORE AT RISK
By Issy Clarke
THE POUNDLAND in Surrey
Quays will close next week – the second branch of the retailer in Southwark to close in recent weeks.
The store in Surrey Quays shopping centre will shut its doors for good on Wednesday, June 11, following reports that up to 200 branches could also close as the struggling budget retailer edges closer to a sale.
The Bermondsey Poundland on Southwark Park Road served its final customers on May 14, while the
Clapham Junction branch also shut up shop on May 2.
Bidding for the business began last week, with a source quipping to the Times that the chain would be priced at “effectively a pound”.
Gordon Brothers, the former owner of Laura Ashley and Homebase, is said to be in the running for ownership of the business.
The retailer had been struggling to deal with the impact of the hike in employers’ national insurance and the increase in the national minimum wage, with profits collapsing by £641 million in the year to September 2024.
© Greystar
The branch on Southwark Park Road
Greystar’s Bermondsey scheme seen from street level
18 NEWS
By Ben Lynch
Local Democracy Reporter
RIVERSIDE RESIDENTS are fighting plans to turn a publicly accessible jetty offering pictureperfect views of Tower Bridge and The Shard into bar and restaurant space.
Sugar Quay Jetty, which is in the ward of Billingsgate though a short walk from the Tower of London, has been open to the public since 2016. A proposal by applicant APML Estate is however looking to alter the use to turn it into the extension of an as-yetunopened restaurant.
Residents living in Sugar Quay claim the application would curtail access to a key local public space and impact their livelihoods due to an increase in noise.
Pat Goldrick, 76, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) the submission if approved would “take away all the fun and all the lifestyle that’s on the jetty” which he said contributed to its “village green atmosphere”.
APML Estate was repeatedly approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.
Under APML’s plans, the jetty would retain a 3.5 metre public walkway while the rest would be used for outdoor seating associated with a nearby restaurant. There would be no live music and its trading hours would be 9am to 9pm, with the space intended as table service only.
The submission has drawn concern from visitors and residents living on Sugar Quay. Located above the restaurant, the flats look directly onto the jetty and the River Thames.
A petition aiming to prevent the jetty being converted to private use has received more than 1,500 signatures and almost 60 objections had been filed on the City of London Corporation’s planning portal at the time of writing.
Many of these draw attention to the importance of having such a space in the City and the impact losing much of it to private use would have on both residents and tourists.
One objector, Fiona Lin, wrote: “Whilst the jetty is busy already (indicated by 85 people being on the jetty on a Monday afternoon), the proposed change in usage would likely be more disruptive to residents too.
“Various residents have already made submissions on this application, but even at a common sense level – I can see how a more fixed drinking and eating establishment would cause more noise, pollution and commotion than people just walking by or having a light picnic, which seems to be the common usage of the jetty right now.”
Another, Robert Deeley, wrote: “This is a loss of public amenity space purely to benefit a private business. There will be a significant loss of benefit to the public who will be discouraged or prevented from accessing the space. It was designed to be open to the public and must remain that way.”
Objections have also been filed by law firm Dadds, representing a number of residents, and Castle Baynard Alderwoman Martha Grekos, in her capacity as a barrister on behalf of Mr Goldrick and his wife.
Visiting the jetty earlier this week, Mr Goldrick told the LDRS: “The jetty is for use for the public and the residents of Sugar Quay. What the freeholder has done is they have changed it around, saying they want to use part of the jetty as private for the benefit of a potential tenant in the restaurant.”
RESIDENTS FIGHTING TO KEEP ENTIRE JETTY
OFFERING PICTURE PERFECT VIEWS OF TOWER BRIDGE AND THE SHARD
He claimed a representative from APML Estate visited last year and told him the change of use was intended as a ‘sweetener’ to try and attract a tenant to take on the restaurant space.
Asked what the impact would be if the proposal is approved, he said: “It’s going to stop the public enjoyment and it’s going to be a great inconvenience to the public and it’s going to take away our open space. We knew when we moved in here there would be a restaurant, and we knew that the jetty was open to the public, and we could use it the same as the public could use it.
“That’s going to get taken away. It’s going to take away all the fun and all the life that’s on the jetty, which creates a village green atmosphere.”
Mr Goldrick said residents living in Sugar Quay pay for the maintenance of the jetty from their service charges, which can add up to around £100,000 annually.
Their collective objection is not about the money though. “You feel that when you’ve bought a place and you’ve seen what’s going to happen, you’ve been told what’s going to happen by the agents and everybody else, you expect that to happen. You don’t expect the freeholder to come along and take it away.”
In a letter uploaded onto the Corporation’s planning portal, consultancy firm Daniel Watney, on behalf of APML Estate, described the 3.5m public walkway as a “generous width”, adding it “would allow for the public to access the river directly, and through the provision of new seating, dwell in the area”.
They noted public access was only granted less than 10 years ago, with details also provided responding to
concerns about potential issues such as noise and antisocial behaviour.
“The proposals seek to optimise on the opportunity presented by the jetty by introducing vitality and vibrancy, supporting the visitor economy and hospitality sector within the
CAZ [Central Activities Zone], and this specific part of the CoL [City of London] which is adjacent to several visitor landmarks, including the River Thames,” they wrote.
“Encouraging greater use of the jetty alongside the retention and
enhancement of pedestrian access and public access to the Thames is considered to accord with the Development Plan.”
The application is to go before City of London Corporation members in July for decision.
Pat Goldrick, Sugar Quay. CREDIT: LDRS
Police
said it is understood that the attack was motivated by a gang rivalry
By Kevin Quinn
A ‘GANG-MEMBER’ driving a stolen Mercedes, who ran into his victim before attacking him with a machete in South London faces over seven years behind bars.
Police said they relentlessly pursued 23-year-old Nino-Tai Smith from Nine Elms after he carried out the brutal attack in Clapham in 2021, despite facing a ‘code of silence’.
Detective Inspector Jonathan Summers, who heads the Met’s Central South Gangs Unit, said: “This was a heinous, premeditated attack motivated by intergang rivalry. We will always seek to prosecute such matters – even when a victim is unable for whatever reason to support a prosecution.
“Neither intimidation nor any perceived code of silence will prevent us from relentlessly pursuing justice. The investigation team have worked tirelessly for years to achieve this amazing result, and I am again humbled by the investigators’ dedication, detective ability and professionalism.”
This complex investigation started after Smith drove the stolen Mercedes into his 25-year-old victim in Cedars Road, off Clapham Common on Thursday, June 10, 2021.
He knocked him off his moped, before setting upon him with a machete. Smith made off, ultimately crashing the car in nearby Newby Street. He then discarded his machete and left on foot before police arrived at the scene.
Met officers provided emergency treatment to the victim and he was taken to hospital to receive lifesaving care.
Investigators then began making urgent enquiries to track down the perpetrator, following numerous lines of enquiry, establishing the Mercedes had been driven by Nino-Tai Smith.
Just two days after the incident, police
By Issy Clarke
THE DEATH of a 15-year-old boy in a lake in Lewisham has raised questions around the quality of swim teaching given to young people due to the pandemic, alongside the safety protocols in place at the park where the incident took place.
Iziah Smith, a Year 11 pupil at Kingsdale Foundation School in West Dulwich, died on Friday, 4 April after getting into difficulty in the lake at Beckenham Place Park.
His body was retrieved from the water at 10:42 pm, seven hours after police received the first report that the teenager was missing. He was taken to hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead.
The teenager’s death has prompted concerns about the safeguarding of the pond, which during the summer is regularly supervised by lifeguards between 7 am to 6 pm, but in winter and spring is often unmanned after 1 pm when swimming hours end. Smith is thought to have entered the lake at around 3 pm.
The tragedy has also brought attention to the quality of swim instruction received by young people.
Research by Swim England and Sport England published in 2024 revealed that
Jailed Nino-Tai Smith CREDIT: Met Police
tracked Smith down to the Patmore Estate in Battersea. Following a chase with officers – captured on body-worn video – he was detained and officers recovered an illegal firearm in a bag that Smith had discarded at the scene.
The investigation team spent months analysing complex phone data and evidence. This all added up to a damning case against Smith, who was shown to be an active participant in the assault after data showed he had been near the scene of the incident at the time.
Smith was jailed for a total of eight years and 10 months at Croydon Crown Court on Wednesday, June 4. This was reduced to seven years and three months after credit. He had previously pleaded guilty on Tuesday, March 4, at the same court to charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.
When officers tracked Smith down, they also recovered a firearm. In connection with the firearm, Smith also pleaded guilty of possessing a firearm at Inner London Crown Court on Monday, November 14, 2022. He was handed a five-year sentence for this offence, which he is serving concurrently with his most recent sentence.
It is understood that assault was motivated by a gang rivalry and DI Summers said after the sentence was handed down: “Smith’s victim was left with severe, life-changing injuries and I’m proud of the investigation team’s efforts in bringing this violent offender to justice.
“Brilliant investigative work helped to paint a compelling picture of Smith’s guilt, and led him to plead guilty on the first day of trial.
“Senseless violence has no place on London’s streets, and I hope this case demonstrates our determination to pursue dangerous criminals who threaten the safety of our communities.”
JAILED AFTER DRIVING STOLEN CAR INTO VICTIM AND
THEN CARRYING OUT BRUTAL MACHETE ATTACK
Death of 15-year-old boy prompts concern around swimming
Izaiah Smith in post from Seda Academy
what’s on
The venue has a connection to this timeless classic
SAM WANAMAKER, thanks to whose vision of a theatre in the way Shakespeare and his contemporaries would have had way back when, left America in the 1950s at the height of the McCarthy “Red Scare” era, when the House Un-American Activities Committee was bent on investigating alleged communist and socialist allegiances amongst its citizens, writes Eleanor Thorn...
It was with these trials in mind that Arthur Miller penned The Crucible, producing a fascinating study of life and humanity not immediately contemporary, but in the year 1692, in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. Paranoia and religious fervour led to witch trials that see many hanged and more imprisoned. Four years after The Crucible was first staged on Broadway in 1953, Miller himself was found guilty of contempt of congress (a conviction later overturned). The venue now provides a connection to this timeless piece of playwriting: a compelling, classic play, presented in a classic manner.
Crucible: a container in which metals are heated and their behaviour observed: these twenty-one characters inadvertently reveal to us, in a climate of fear-driven mass hysteria, how easy it is for a society to fall into terrible mismanagement of justice and abuse of control. Fear rules, falsehood and pretence have the power to wreak havoc.
Barbadian slave Tituba (Sarah Merrifield) and Rev. Parris’ orphaned teenage niece Abigail (Hannah Saxby) and other girls all easily influenced, are spied frolicking in the forest and accused of sorcery by uncle Rev. Parris(Steve Furst), whose daughter is languishing as if ill or in convulsions. To absolve themselves, and in Abigail’s case, to regain the attention of family man John Proctor (Gavin Drea), they frenziedly accuse others of witchery, which raises them and others into positions of influence and power. ‘Not they’ but so many are the ones guilty of heresy, Devil-worship, baby-sickness and death (bickering and denouncing of neighbours turns serious when hanging is the punishment).
Rev. Parris and Rev. Hale (Jo StoneFewings) fear their ‘ministry is at stake’, accuse Jon Proctor of sin for not baptising a child, not attending church and not knowing all the Commandments. John Proctor (and later Rev Hale) sees through all the madness and knows the girls’ convulsions to be pure pretence, theatre (within this theatre), but has to confess his adultery in an attempt to convince the court. The love demonstrated between him and his wife Elizabeth (Phoebe Pryce) is a strong and touching moment. Proctor’s moral courage makes him the hero, and his and Abigail’s are the strongest performances.
An all-female ensemble, barely visible in the gallery, provides plenty of brass and percussive rhythm to good dramatic effect. Scenography is stripped down so we focus on the all-important script.
Shakespeare’s Globe, Bankside, SE1 until 12th July. Admission: £5 - £80. Booking and full details: www.shakespearesglobe.com/
THE SOUND OF BEING SEEN
FROM THE moment Lucas touches the piano, the room shifts. She talks about how sound — vibration, really — connects us all, how it travels through the particles in the air and makes the very lights flicker. And, somehow, as she speaks, it starts to feel completely true, writes Luigia Minichiello...
WELL, ACCOMPLISHED young people is a truer definition of this group of musical theatre performers who have put on their own show on the London Fringe, writes Michael Holland.
The troupe, all students at the renowned BRIT School, have, over the past 2-3 years, been working on their Sh!t Show, which they have recently showcased to very impressed audiences at The Union Theatre. No easy task when you know that they have done this in between the maths, English and science subjects that have to be done at school, plus the performance projects assigned as part of what the BRIT School curriculum is all about.
The show’s producer, Nellie Regan, revealed the idea was formed at the back of the maths class about three years ago -
When they were all in Year 10! Lars Nunns had a few songs, which he asked Linus
The ‘Elephant’ in the room? It’s the piano itself — its keys bound in painful history, each note carrying weight. And yet there’s magic in that piano and in her story. She tells us how it arrived — swinging through the window like a pirate ship, mid-air and full of promise. It’s a perfect image: wild, theatrical, a bit absurd. Much like
herself.
The stage is minimal, rotating gently as she moves through chapters of her life, from a wide-eyed seven-year-old to a woman fighting to be heard in the music industry. Her storytelling is rich, but never heavy-handed—one moment we’re laughing at her French mother’s refusal to cook curried goat (“You can eat quiche!”), and the next
we’re sitting quietly with her as she navigates what it means to be brown and middle-class in a very white, middle-class world.
There’s a gentle humour and a sharp honesty in how she recounts her journey, how her heritage is either exoticised or erased, how the record labels tried to sell her story but only if it was “toned down”. It’s no wonder things eventually unravelled. At the heart of it all is a young woman falling in love with her drummer. Their connection is instant, electric, and full of understanding — something Lucas has never known before. Together, they throw themselves into their music, both equally driven, both burning with talent.
The road isn’t the same for both. He, a posh white boy, glides through doors that barely crack open for her. While he lands the gigs and gains the attention, she finds herself fighting twice as hard just to stay in the room. And then comes the moment that breaks the spell: meeting his parents. A quiet, devastating confrontation with privilege that says everything. It’s too much. The pressure to fit, the ache of not being enough in their world. She hits the self-destruct. This is, without doubt, an astonishing performance by an exemplary talent. After ninety minutes, the standing ovation was more than deserved.
Lucas doesn’t just play the piano, she lets it speak. And in that flickering, vibrating space, we were all lucky enough to hear it.
Catch this before it goes up West.
Elephant is on at Menier Chocolate Factory until June 28th. Booking and full details: www. menierchocolatefactory.com
New Kids on the Stage
Davison to put music to. They in turn got Ms Regan and Abbie Garland to sing the songs to see how they sounded before Gregor Brown got involved to put a dance team together to choreograph, and before you know it they had the meat of a musical ready to be put together in one energyfilled body of work that now has life. The showcase was their opportunity to show what they could do. Each person would explain their character, their backstory and introduce a specific scene before singing a song that brought everything together. By the end we had enjoyed comedy (Ellie Jones is hilarious; Max Wanambwa and Arlo Gould are comedy gold); dancing that conjured up touches of Fosse from Edward Bowley, Hannah Nolan, Twyla Bradley, Caitlin Poole and Sophie Mulhall, and singing from Nellie, Abbie, Noah Superville, Freddie Janman, Sophie Cawley and Eva Mohammed that could grace any show in the West End right now, plus, there is a multitude of talent in the remaining ensemble, who are all keen and ready to step up from the chorus line.
The music, though, was something else. It is difficult to take in that this was written by two boys in their mid-teens - in their spare time! The upbeat numbers have a pounding, toe-tapping beat as good as you would find in any modern musical. The ballads have a poignancy and tenderness that equal songs written by those of much more advanced life experience, and the lyrics are bang on trend.
How Sh!T Show got to this stage actually sounds like the storyline of a Hollywood movie but Sh!t Show has a better storyline; one that involves twins separated at birth who unknowingly clash over a man while working at the same company. Throw in some embezzlement, bankruptcy and lots of singing and dancing and I think Lars and Linus will have to change the title when they get this show completed, because this show is as far from its working title as it possibly could be. This show takes you on a journey to joy and needs a positive title to reflect that.
On the downside I would have liked the story to have been London-based. I see no need for Linus and Lars to have their
cast putting on fake American accents and singing about Long Island and New Jersey or about coming from Idaho when they can make London and Britain just as attractive - Unless, of course, they already have their sights firmly set on Broadway! Watch out for all these names because, from what I have seen, they are part of theatre’s future and need a leg up to get this potential masterpiece finished.
Nellie Regan, who also plays Rebecca, has the last word: “Sh!t Show is a sharp, funny, and sometimes painfully relatable story about a love triangle between Guy, Amanda, and Rebecca — three characters who bring workplace drama to a whole new level. It’s messy, touching, a little bit vengeful, and full of moments we’ve all lived through (or narrowly escaped). It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s entirely created and performed by the next generation of theatre artists... I believe it is so important for new work to be shared and seen, so please help me raise money so we are able to take our show to the next level.”
gofund.me/8d55f1a7
Lucas
Photo by Manuel Harlan
Heading south - our pick of upcoming summer events
Grease: the Musical by Trinity Laban Musical Theatre
Second year students on Trinity Laban’s Musical Theatre course will be presenting Grease: The Musical at Blackheath Halls. Follow 1950s Rydell High School and follow the romance between new girl Sandy and popular guy Danny, who find their summer love challenged by the pressures of teenage life. Featuring iconic songs like Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’ and You’re the One that I Want. Join Danny, Sandy and the rest of the Pink Ladies and greaser gang for laughs, drama and unforgettable musical moments.
Location: Blackheath Halls, Great Hall, 23 Lee Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ
Dates: 17th June 2025 - 21st June 2025. Time: Tuesday - Friday at 7pm, Saturday at 2:30pm Tickets: £15 per ticket, £10 concessions. Buy tickets here: trinitylaban.ac.uk/whats-on
Confessions of a Teletubby at Woolwich Works
Remember the Teletubbies? Ever wondered what it was like behind the scenes? Discover the truth with the original LaaLaa as she spills the beans on what it took to become one of the world’s most famous giant yellow puppets. Nikky Smedlet played LaaLaa (the yellow one) in the original series of Teletubbies for six years. Hear what is was like in one of those Tubby suits, how the NooNoo really worked and why children loved the show so much. Confessions of a Teletubby is loosely based on Nikky’s best-selling book Over the Hills and Far Away- My Life as a Teletubby. You’ll hear frank, hilarious and sometimes tragic stories of the human experience within a truly surreal world. Plus you’ll have the chance to ask Nikky anything you’ve always wanted to know about Teletubbies, and maybe get a selfie! Suitable for ages 16+.
Location: Woolwich Works (Ropekeepers Studio), The Fireworks Factory, 11 No.1 Street, Woolwich, London, SE18 6HD. Date: Sunday 22nd June. Time: 6pm - 7:30pm
Tickets: Buy tickets here for £13.75: www.woolwich.works
This free event for 3-7 year olds is a morning of storytelling with writer and theatre maker Niall Moorjani. Learn about Rajiv, a character who has feelings for everything, but he is angry and doesn’t know why. With the help of his father, he sets out on a journey to make sense of his feelings. It is a journey that will take him to a park, then up into the branches of a tree, and from there all the way to the stars... Join Niall telling their queer stories of heroes and adventures as they read their beautifully and stunningly illustrated story, helping children everywhere explore the complex emotions we all feel but cannot always name.
Location: Deptford Lounge, 9 Giffin St, Deptford SE8 4RJ
Date: Saturday 21st June. Time: 10:30am
Tickets: No ticket required, this event is free to drop in
The Windrush Concert III at Broadway Theatre
Hosted by Felicity Ethnic with her stage husband Daddy Ernie, in their Windrush Front Room, enjoy a relaxing rum punch as you take a walk down memory lane. This concert will capture the sound of the Bluespot Gram and breadth of musical influence that the Windrush Generation has had on British culture. Appearances from Johnny Orlanda the Windrush legend with his renditions of classic Windrush tracks and Winsome MoncrieffeMitchell singing her hit songs.
Location: Broadway Theatre, Rushey Grn, London SE6 4RU
Date: Sunday 22nd June. Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Tickets: Buy tickets here for £23.50: www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk/events
Davy’s Quiz Night at Wine Vaults Greenwich
Test out your general knowledge and trivia skills at Davy’s Quiz night, which is happening every third Thursday throughout summer. There are first and second place prizes available. First place will get give you and the team a round of bowling at Wine Vault’s brand new boutique bowling alley, Vintners Lanes for you and the team after the quiz. Second place is a £60 bar tab. Each team is up to six players maximum.
Location: Davy’s Wine Vaults Greenwich, 161 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich, London, SE10 8JA
Dates: 19th June. Time: 7pm. Tickets: £2 per ticket, buy on the door
The Borough mystery that shocked Victorian London A PUB CRAWL WITH A PROSTITUTE, A MURDER, AND AN INJURED DONKEY
At around 3pm on the afternoon of Wednesday, October 11, 1892, a group of men were seen walking along White Cross Street (now Ayres Street) supporting a finely dressed gentleman who appeared worse for wear, writes historian Neil Crossfield...
Witnesses heard the men singing ‘ta-rade boom-de day’ and urging their slightly stupefied colleague to join in. Scenes like this would not be unusual in Victorian Southwark, where a multitude of pubs catered to a clientele where excessive alcohol consumption was common.
The group were then seen to bundle the man into a darkened alley, at the rear entrance to the George IV pub in Southwark Bridge Road. While three men went in, only two walked out, and it was then that the body of Dr. William Peter Kirwain was discovered, slumped against the wall of the alley, and frothing at the mouth.
A police officer was called, he cut the man’s tight collar with his knife, and an ambulance was called. By the time the victim got to Guy’s hospital, the man was dead. When Dr. Carling of the Guy’s ‘dead room’ made his initial assessment of the victim, he ascertained that the cause of death had been strangulation.
Initial reports about the victim suggested that the victim, Dr Kirwain, was a model of Victorian respectability and virtue. He was born in Ireland in 1850 and had gained his medical qualification there. He had recently been working as a locum doctor in the East End. Dr. James MacLachlan, who lived at 200 Barking Road, had known Kirwain since 1875 and told a coroner that he believed that he was a sober and abstemious man.
As more details were discovered about the doctor, it appeared that underneath the veneer of respectability, there most
likely were darker secrets. Although he was not known to have any financial worries, Kirwain had frequently used pawn shops in the local area, although his friends just attributed this to an ‘eccentricity.’
He had left his digs at around 11am, smartly dressed, wearing a deep brown morning coat, a high hat, carrying a silk umbrella in his right hand, and light tan gloves. He was also wearing a gold ring on his little finger and a gold watch on a chain. Kirwain had visited Dr. MacLachlan at around 6pm before going to dinner with his friend’s brother.
Kirwain was last seen in the Aberfeldy Public House at around 11:15 on Tuesday night, when he left a colleague to return home to 212 Brixton Road, Kennington. This was around six miles away, and several buses and trams ran along this route.
However, his landlady, Mrs. Eliza Hardley, reported that he did not return to his room that night. Had he decided to walk home and become waylaid in another pub?
We will never know, but the next
confirmed sighting was at 5:30 on the following morning when he was seen by Edwin Stirling, the Landlord of the King Alfred pub which stood on Newington Causeway, near to the Elephant and Castle.
Giving evidence, Stirling said the pub had opened as usual at 5am, and a slightly dishevelled-looking Dr. Kirwain had been in the pub. He was not alone and was in the company of a woman named Blanche Roberts.
Kirwain had ordered a glass of bitter for himself and two-penny-worth of Irish whiskey for the woman. By her own admission, his companion was an ‘unfortunate’ woman; one of thousands of poor Victorian women who had become sex workers to support themselves.
At around 10:15 that morning, the couple went into a florist on Great Dover Street, where a slightly unsteady Dr. Kirwain bought a flower for Ms Roberts. He had tried to give her a yellow chrysanthemum, but she had wanted a rose.
The florist recalled the doctor saying, ‘Give her what she wants’ before pulling
out a handful of coins, including ‘some loose silver, half-crowns, two-shilling pieces and two or three gold coins, all mixed up with some coppers. The florist also said that the doctor looked like he could do with a ‘good wash to refresh him’ and that the lady smelled ‘strongly of drink’.
After, they headed to the One Distillery in Borough High Street, where Kirwain bought more whisky for his lady friend.
The sight of this incongruous couple had created a stir, drawing attention to themselves as they trawled around the streets of the Borough.
Borough was a notoriously poor and crime-ridden area during this period, where prostitution was rife and several of the most verminous common lodging houses could be found, inhabited by those living on the very fringes of society but not yet desperate enough to go into the workhouse.
Groups of children began to follow the pair as they left the bar and went to sit in Red Cross Street Gardens. The children were calling Ms Roberts ‘TottieFay,’ just one of the aliases used by an
infamous inebriated woman who had been arrested and charged in court over one hundred times for drunkenness and general debauchery, becoming somewhat of a working-class anti-hero in the period. The caretaker of Redcross Gardens had seen the children pelting the couple with stones and noted that the woman looked ‘three parts drunk’. Unfortunately, the couple had attracted the attention of some slightly more menacing characters – Charles Balch, Edward Waller, John Noble, and Henry Lee.
Balch and Waller were habitual criminals. Balch had been born in Lambeth around 1854 and was first before a judge at the age of fourteen for stealing boots, he was sentenced to 21 days imprisonment. In 1868, he was convicted of stealing a pig’s head and sentenced to three months in prison. Other offenses were recorded, and he is eventually sentenced to seven years for stealing gooseberries in 1871. He does not stay out of trouble for long, as in 1882, he was sent to prison for ten years for stealing beans.
Balch was a particularly violent
Illustrated Police News – Saturday 22 October Courtesy of 1892 British Newspaper Archive
Dr Kirwain Illustrated Police News
character; on the night detectives went to arrest him, they found him in the process of conducting a vicious assault on his wife. It is not surprising that he turned out like this, as his father was also a shady character who had been kicked to death in a fight at the Borough in 1887. Waller had been convicted of theft on three occasions and had also spent time in prison.
A witness named Alfred Kelly thought there was something suspicious about the way in which this group of men were following the doctor and Ms Roberts around and took it upon himself to follow them around the streets of the Borough for at least 2.5 hours.
At one point, he had seen the woman talking to the men and witnessed them trying to get Kirwain into a common lodging house. At around 1:30pm, the doctor was seen in the Lord Clyde pub in Peter Street (this pub is still serving today) in the company of three of the men, Balch, Waller, and Noble.
The landlady, Elizabeth Knight, thought that the doctor appeared drunk, and the men were buying him more drinks. At one point, he threw down and smashed
a glass that they were trying to make him drink. The insinuation was that he was being drugged.
Another witness was a 13-year-old boy named John Wentworth, who made a living by selling bundles of firewood around the area. If any further evidence is needed that the accused were a vicious gang, it was later reported in the press that threats had been made to persuade Wentworth not to testify against them in court.
Wentworth’s donkey was attacked in its stable and sustained serious head injuries, losing an eye in the process. This barbaric attack deprived the lad of his means of making money, as the donkey was used to carry the wood. Luckily, people began to send donations into an appeal fund for Wentworth, and eventually, the Royal Society for the Protection of Animals donated a new animal to Wentworth, along with a promise that they would track down the people who so grievously attacked his animal.
When the four men left the Lord Clyde, the doctor was being held up by Balch and Waller. This was when several people
heard the men singing. As they neared the passageway leading to the George IV pub, Balch and Waller pushed the doctor into the alleyway while Noble stood blocking the entrance.
We get some idea about what happened here from the testimony of another criminal called Featherstone, who was temporarily put into a holding cell with Waller whilst being transported to Holloway Prison after the men had been apprehended. Asking what he had been arrested for, Waller said for ‘doing in an old toff.’
Waller then described what had happened and said that he had put one hand inside the doctor’s shirt collar and the other over his mouth to prevent him from shouting. Balch, who was armed with a knife, accidentally stabbed Waller in the chin and then hit the doctor on the head, while Noble went through his pockets.
The prisoner asked Waller: ‘How much did you get?’. Waller replied, ‘One pound and six shillings.’ ‘That’s not much to kill a man for,’ said Featherstone, to which Waller replied: ‘We didn’t intend killing
him, and if we had known he had only a little bit like that, we shouldn’t have touched him’.
But kill him they had, and after initial hearings at Lambeth Police Court, the full trial took place at the Old Bailey on November 14, 1892. Masses of people had gathered outside, and the courtroom was crowded. Balch, Waller, and Noble were all tried for murder, but Henry Lee was due to be tried for the lesser crime of robbery with violence later.
A wide range of witnesses were called upon, including poor Ms Roberts. In the witness box she appeared a pitiable character, totally bewildered by the whole experience. She confirmed that she was an ‘unfortunate’ woman and seemed to have little recollection of the events on the day of the murder due to her having consumed a lot of alcohol.
She revealed that she often inhabited the common lodging houses and sometimes took men into them. There is a suggestion that she may have known the accused as they lived in the same neighbourhood, but we will never know this. However, while she may have had
alcohol problems, it is possible that she had been advised to use this defence by the accused, who may have threatened her with retribution. There was also the potential that she would be implicated in the murder if she were found to have colluded with the men to rob him. It should be remembered that murder was a capital offence at this time.
Accepting that this was not a premeditated murder, all three men were found guilty of manslaughter while Lee was acquitted. Balch and Waller received a 20-year sentence each, and Noble 14 years. Waller would die in prison in 1907. This case had another unfortunate victim, for when the doctor’s mother in Dublin was told about his murder, she collapsed and died just three days before the trial had started, so overcome was she with grief.
Little is known of what happened to the unfortunate woman who was caught up in this tragic affair, but the 1911 census shows a Blanche Roberts working as a domestic servant at Guy’s hospital, so we can only hope that her later years were more peaceful and stable.
Illustrated Police News
Ronnie Webb the best Daddy in the world
love you all the treats and more love Ronnie Boy
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Love You All The World. Chrissie, Lauren, Johnboy, Katie, and to Grandad from, Lily-Rose, Brooke-Lyn, Josie, Ted and Jamie Jr.
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Daddy, Johnboy Baker. Happy Father’s Day. Love and Miss You More Today than We Did Yesterday. Love You All The World. Brooke-Lyn and Josie.
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To Nandad, Happy Nandad’s Day! We love you so much, From Jude, Rocco and Asta xxx
To Daddy, Happy Father’s Day! Love Jude and Rocco x
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To the best Dad in the World, Happy Father’s Day. Thank you for everything you do for us, Love Teddy & Tilly-May Xxx
Happy Father’s Day, Charlie Steadman, Love Lilly, H & CJ Xxx
Happy Father’s Day George Nicholls, Love Reg xxx
Happy Father’s Day Dad/Grandad Tim Liston. Love the crazy 5 xx
Happy Father’s Day to my amazing Dad, Danboy, have the best day. Love Ivy-Rose xxx
To the Best Dad & Grandad Steven Green, Happy Father’s Day, Love you lots, Jo, Nick, Teddy & Tilly-May Xx
Happy Father’s Day to the best Dad & Grandad Steve White, Have a lovely day.
Love Nick, jo, teddy & Tilly-May xxx
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Happy Father’s Day Dad, Love you always, Maisie xx
To the best Dad in the world Lee Terry, Happy Father’s Day. Lots of love, Mason & Archie xxx
Happy Father’s Day Bobby jukes, Have the best day!! From the tribe xxx
Happy Father’s Day Liam Boyd, Love Billy & Tommy xx
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Thank you for being amazing, we love you loads, from Lexi, Freddie and Isla x
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Happy Father’s Day Brian Maillardet, Thank you for everything you do for us, Love Megan, Ronnie & Poppy xxx
Happy Father’s Day to my Grandad Brain Maillardet. Love you lots, Isla xxx
Happy Father’s Day To the best Daddy in the world Dan Tomkins I love you lots, Love Isla xxx
Happy Father’s Day Aaron Cook, We love you lots, Love Ralph & Darcie xx
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Happy Father’s Day Frankie, Thank you for everything you do for me & Mummy.
Notice of Application for a Variation of the Premises Licence Under Section 34 of the Licensing Act 2003.
Notice is hereby given that Inventure Putney Ltd have applied to the London Borough of Wandsworth Council for a Variation of the premises licence for Best One 169 Putney High Street, London SW15 1RT to extend the permitted hours for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises to be until 02.00 the following day all week. The address of the Licensing Authority where the register is kept and the application may be inspected during normal business hours is: Merton 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 Merton Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Any representations by any other person or responsible authority must be received in writing by the Licensing Authority by 3rd July 2025 stating the nature and grounds for making such representation. It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine on summary conviction for this offence is an unlimited fine.
GT Licensing Consultants Tel 07810 826778 em: gtlicensingconsultants@gmail.com
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
The Padel Yard Ltd has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth for the grant of a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises:
The Padel Yard, Vauxhall Square, 95 Wandsworth Road, Vauxhall, London, SW8 2LX which would authorise the following licensable activities:
Indoor Sporting Events: Monday - Sunday 07:00 - 23:00
Live Music: Monday - Sunday 11 :00 - 23:00
Recorded Music - Monday - Sunday 07:0023:00
Supply of Alcohol - Monday - Sunday 10:0023:00
The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth Town Hall, Basement Room B08 & B09, 1 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1RW, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing
A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application.
Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than 18.06.2025
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an application has been made to the London Borough of Lambeth for a Special Treatment Licence under the London Local Authorities Act 1991 by:
Business Name: Chanle Wellness Service
Premises Address: 1 Cellini Street, Nine Elms, London SW8 2FU
Nature of Special Treatments to be provided: Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Ear Cleaning, Head and Neck Massage
Any person wishing to make representations about this application must do so in writing to: Licensing Team, London Borough of Lambeth, 3rd Floor, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London SW2 1EG
Representations must be received within 28 days from the date of publication of this notice. Date of Publication: June 13th 2025
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
Take notice that I/we: Mark Walker
have made an application to Lewisham Council acting as the Licensing Authority, for a New Premises Licence in respect of Deptford Junction, Unit 8 Titan Business Estate, Ffinch Street, London, SE8 5QA
The details of the application are as follows: Sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises
12:00 – 23:00 Monday
12:00 – 23:00 Tuesday
12:00 – 23:30 Wednesday
12:00 – 01:00 Thursday
12:00 – 03:00 Friday
12:00 – 03:00 Saturday
12:00 – 22:30 Sunday
Live and Recorded Music
23:00 – 03:00 Friday
23:00 – 03:00 Saturday
Seasonal Variation (for all activities) – Any Day preceding a bank holiday until 03:00
The application and the Licensing Authority’s public register can be inspected at: Lewisham Council, Safer Communities Service, 9 Holbeach Road, London, SE6 4TW by appointment between Monday to Friday (except on public holidays) and between the hours of 9.00 am to 4.00 pm; or at www.lewisham.gov.uk
The last date by which responsible authorities or other persons may make representations to the Licensing Authority in relation to this application is: 24th June 2025
Any representations must be made in writing to the above address or by emailing licensing@lewisham.gov.uk
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction is unlimited.
Licensing Act 2003 Notice of application to VARY a Premises Licence Co-operative Group Food Limited have applied to vary their premises licence at Co-op 196-212 Plumstead Common Road, London SE18 2RS to extend the
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that BATTERSEA PARK
GRILL LTD. has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Battersea Park Grill Café, 153 Battersea Park Road London, SW8 4BX for
Sale of Alcohol – On and Off-Sales - Monday to Sunday – 11:00hrs to 23:30hrs Late Night Refreshment – Indoors and Outdoors – Monday to Sunday – 23:00hrs to 00:00hrs (Midnight)
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 07th July 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.
SECTION 16A
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES FOR STREET PARTIES AND OTHER SOCIAL EVENTS
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable street parties and other social events to take place, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth intends to make Orders the effect of which would be to ban vehicles from entering the following roads or lengths of road on the dates indicated:-
(a)(i) Cedarville Gardens, the whole length; (ii) Wavertree Road, between Downton Avenue and Nuthurst Road; (iii) Thornlaw Road, between Casewick Road and Thurlby Road; on Sunday 29 June 2025
(b)(i) Arodene Road, between 56 Arodene Road and Helix Gardens; on Sunday 6 July
(c)(i) Deronda and Romola Road, Deronda Road between No. 32 Deronda Road and Scoles Crescent; Romola Road between No. 56 Romola Road and Deronda Road; (ii) Mackie Road,,between Athlone Road and Hillworth Road; on Saturday 12 July 2025
(d)(i) Trelawn Road, between No. 17 Trelawn Road and No. 56 Trelawn Road; (ii) Egremont Road, between No. 33 Egremont Road and No. 64 Egremont Road; (iii) Birkbeck Place, the whole length; on Sunday 13 July
(e)(i) Chancellor Grove, the whole length; on Sunday 20th July
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles would be available via adjacent roads as directed by traffic signs.
3. The bans would only apply on the above dates at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs and barriers in the roads concerned.
TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE) (ENGLAND) ORDER 2015
NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 10 OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION
Proposed development at: Royal Street, SE1
We give notice that: Guy’s & St Thomas’ Foundation
Is applying to the London Borough of Lambeth for permission to undertake a non-material amendment to an existing planning permission (22/01206/EIAFUL) for:
“Amendments to the wording of conditions 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 40, 45, 51, 52, 56, 57, 66, 68 and 69 of planning permission 22/01206/EIAFUL”
Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application, should write to Planning, London Borough of Lambeth, PO Box 734, Winchester, SO23 5DG or planning@lambeth.gov.uk within 14 days beginning with the date of publication of this notice.
Signed: ……………………………… Newmark
On behalf of: Guy’s & St Thomas’ Foundation
Date: 3 June 2025
Statement of owners' rights: The grant of planning permission does not affect owners' rights to retain or dispose of their property unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or lease.
Statement of agricultural tenants' rights: The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants' security of tenure.
'Owner' means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years. 'Tenant' means a tenant of an agricultural holding any part of which is comprised in the land.
Dated 13 June 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16 TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS IN THE AVENUE, ROOKERY ROAD AND WINDMILL DRIVE FOR LONDON TO BRIGHTON CYCLING EVENT
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, with the agreement of the Council of the London Borough of Wandsworth and Transport for London, under Section 16 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act of 1984 has made an Order the general effect of which will be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from:(a) waiting in that length of The Avenue (A205) between its junction with Balham Hill and Clapham Common South Side and the borough boundary of London Borough of Wandsworth; (b) entering or proceeding in that length of Rookery Road which lies between Clapham Common South Side and Long Road; (c) entering, proceeding or waiting in that length of Windmill Drive between its junction with The Avenue (A205) and the borough boundary of London Borough of Wandsworth.
2. The prohibitions, which are necessary to facilitate the London to Brighton Cycle Ride, will be in force on 15 June 2025 during the following times and as shall be indicated by the placing or covering of the appropriate traffic signs: (a) The Avenue, from midnight to midday; (b) Rookery Road, all day; (c) Windmill Drive, from midnight to midday.
3. Diversion routes will be via Long Road (A3), Clapham Common South Side (A24) and The South Circular (A205). Access will be permitted to residents of Windmill Drive.
4. Nothing in Article 2 of this Order shall apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform
Dated 13 June 2025
Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
hadaway
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3 GLA ROAD (HOOK RISE NORTH, ROYAL BOROUGH OF KINGSTON UPON THAMES) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it has made 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 on Hook Rise North.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from stopping on Hook Rise North between its junction with Princes Avenue and the extended common boundary of Nos. 34 and 36 Hook Rise North.
The Order will be effective between 15th June 2025 and 18th June 2025, each night, from 10:00 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.
Dated this 13th day of June 2025
Andrew Ulph
Co-ordination Manager
Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A23 GLA ROAD (BRIXTON HILL, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH) (TEMPORARY BANNED TURN) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it has made 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 Telecoms works to take place on A23 Brixton Hill.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from turning left into Acre Lane from Brixton Hill.
The Order will be effective at certain times between 9:00 PM on 17th June 2025 until 5:00 AM on 18th June 2025 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 via Brixton Road, Stockwell Road, Clapham Road, Clapham High Street, Clapham Park Road and Acre Lane to normal route of travel.
Dated this 13th day of June 2025
Andrew Ulph
Co-ordination Manager Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3 GLA SIDE ROAD (THE PAVEMENT, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC AND STOPPING)
ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London in consultation with the London Borough of Lambeth hereby gives notice that it has made 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 new water connection works to take place on The Pavement.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from:
(1) entering, proceeding or stopping on The Pavement eastbound arm between the extended common boundary of Nos. 14 and 15 The Pavement and its junction with the A3 Clapham High Street/Clapham Common South Side;
(2) stopping on the A3 Clapham Common South Side between its junctions with Long Road/The Pavement southbound arm and Clapham High Street/The Pavement eastbound arm/Clapham Park Road;
The Order will also:
(3) permit all vehicles to use the southbound bus lane on The Pavement southbound arm between its junctions with The Pavement eastbound arm and the A3 Clapham Common South Side.
The Order will be effective between 16th June 2025 and 19th June 2025, 9:00 PM until 5:00 AM every night 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 via The Pavement southbound arm and A3 Clapham Common South Side to normal route of travel.
Dated this 13th day of June 2025 Andrew Ulph Co-ordination Manager
Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A202 GLA SIDE ROAD (BOLTON CRESCENT, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH) (TEMPORARY BANNED TURN) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London in consultation with the London Borough of Lambeth 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 Thames Water works to take place on Bolton Crescent.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from turning left into Bolton Crescent from A202 Camberwell New Road.
The Order will be effective at certain times between 8:00 PM on 30th June 2025 until 5:30 AM on 2nd July 2025 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 via Camberwell New Road, John Ruskin Street, Dale Road, Cooks Road, Kennington Park Place and St Agnes Place to normal route of travel.
Dated this 13th day of June 2025
Andrew Ulph Co-ordination Manager Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given Bertie Procter has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Burning Rose, 7 Chestnut Grove, Balham, SW12 8JA for the sale of alcohol on the premises between the times of 12:00 – 23:00, Tuesday – Saturday
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 3rd of July 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.
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR VARIATION OF PREMISES LICENCE
Metropolitana London LTD has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth to vary a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises: Metropolis London, 72-73 Goding Street, SE11 5AW
The nature of the variation is as follows: Proposed to extend opening hours until 5am from Thursday through Sunday for: Plays - Films - Live Music - Recorded Music - performance of Dance - Late night refreshments - Sale by retail of alcohol
The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth Town Hall, Basement Room B08 & B09, 1 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1RW, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing
A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application.
Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than 7th July 2025
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).
Notice of application for a Premises Licence
Notice is hereby given that Twisted Ivy has applied to Richmond Council for a new premises licence at Twisted Ivy, 51 King Street, TW1 3SG for the sale of alcohol on and off the premises, Monday to Sunday, 10:00 to 23:00.
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 18th June 2025stating the grounds for making said representation to: Richmond 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 Richmond 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 https://www.richmond.gov.uk/
London Borough of Lambeth
NOTICE OF DESIGNATION OF AREAS FOR SELECTIVE LICENSING
Section 80, Housing Act 2004
1. The London Borough of Lambeth (“The Council”) in exercise of its powers under section 80 of the Housing Act 2004 ("the Act") hereby designates for selective licensing the areas described in paragraph 5 CITATION, COMMENCEMENT AND DURATION
2. This Designation shall be known as the London Borough of Lambeth Phase 2 Designations for Areas for Selective Licensing 2025. All privately rented residential accommodation situated within the designated areas must be licensed with the Council unless subject to statutory exemption as set out in paragraph 6.
3. The Designation was confirmed on 23rd May 2025. The Designation fall within a description of designations for which confirmation is not required by Secretary of State, and come into force on 1st September 2025
4. The Designations shall cease to have effect on 31st August 2030 (not more than 5 years) or earlier if the Council revokes the scheme under section 84 of the Act.
AREA TO WHICH THE DESIGNATION APPLIES
5. These designations apply to the following areas of the London Borough of Lambeth. The Designation is delineated in blue with the area itself coloured purple on the map in annex A below. The following wards are included: Wards included in Designation Brixton Acre Lane Brixton North Ward Brixton Rush Common Brixton Windrush Clapham Common & Abbeville Clapham East Clapham Park Clapham Town Gipsy Hill Herne Hill & Loughborough Junction Kennington Myatts Field Oval St Martins Stockwell East Stockwell West & Larkhall Streatham Hill West & Thornton Streatham Wells West Dulwich APPLICATION OF THE DESIGNATION
6. This designation applies to any house(1) which is let or occupied under a tenancy or licence within the area described in paragraph 5 unless:
a. the house is a house in multiple occupation [HMO] that falls within the nationally prescribed category of HMO that is required to be licensed as a ‘mandatory HMO’ under section 55(2)(a) Part 2 of the Act2(2)
b. the house is a house in multiple occupation that falls within the prescribed category of HMO that is required to be licensed under the London Borough of Lambeth Designation of an Area for Additional Licensing of Houses of Multiple Occupation made on 9th December 2021 under Section 56 of the Housing Act 2004(3)
c. the tenancy or licence of the house has been granted by a registered social landlord(4)
d. the house is subject to an Interim or Final Management Order under Part 4 of the Act;
e. the house is subject to a temporary exemption under section 86 of the Act; or f. the house is occupied under a tenancy or licence which is exempt under the Act or the occupation is of a building or part o a building so exempt as defined in Paragraph 5(f): Exempted tenancies or licences, Selective Licensing of Houses (Specified Exemptions) (England) Order 2006 SI 370/2006.
EFFECT OF THE DESIGNATION
6. Subject to sub paragraphs 6(a) to (f) every house in the area specified in paragraph 5 that is occupied under a tenancy or icence shall be required to be licensed under section 85 of the Act(5)
7. The London Borough of Lambeth will comply with the notification requirements contained in section 83 of the Act and shall maintain a register of all houses registered under this designation, as required under section 232 of the Act(6)
If you are a landlord, managing agent or a tenant, or if you require information regarding this designation, or to apply for a licence, further information and assistance is available from the Council’s Private Rented Property Licensing Team by telephone on 020 7926 8591 or by email to PRSlicensing@lambeth.gov.uk, or by writing to Private Sector Enforcement and Regulation Service, PO Box 80771, London, SW2 9QQ.
The Designation may be inspected at the above address during office hours. All landlords, managing agents or tenants within the designated area should obtain advice to ascertain whether their property is affected by the Designation by contacting the Council’s Private Rented Property Licensing Team.
Upon the Designation coming into force any person having control of or who manages a licensable property without a licence or allows a licensed property to be occupied by more households or persons other than as authorised by a licence, is liable to prosecution and upon summary conviction is liable to an unlimited fine pursuant to the provisions of section 95 of the Housing Act 2004. A person who breaches a condition of a licence is liable upon summary conviction to an unlimited fine. The Council, as an alternative to initiating a prosecution, may pursue one or more of a range of other enforcement actions including the imposition of a financial penalty of up to £30,000 and/or taking management control of unlicensed property. Further, where an offence has been committed an application may also be made by the Council and/or tenant under the provisions of section 96 and 97 of the Housing Act 2004 for a Rent Repayment Order to pay back up to 12 months’ rent, Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. No notice under section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 may be given in relation to an assured shorthold tenancy of the whole or part of an unlicensed house so long as it remains an unlicensed house.
Signed by Cabinet Member for Safer Communities: Councillor Dr Mahamed Hashi for and on behalf of the London Borough of Lambeth
1 For the definition of "house" see sections 79 and 99 of the Act
2 Section 55 of the Act defines which Houses in Multiple Occupation are required to be licensed under the Act. See also The Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Prescribed Descriptions) (England) Order 2005 (SI 2006/371)
3 Additional Licensing covers HMOs that are not within the scope of Mandatory HMO Licensing where tenants share one or more ‘basic amenities’ i.e. a WC, personal washing facilities or cooking facilities.
4 Section 79 (3) of the Act. For the definition of a Registered Social Landlord see Part 1 of the Housing Act 1996
5 See the Selective Licensing of Houses (Specified Exemptions) (England) Order 2006 SI 370/2006
6 Section 232 of the Act and paragraph 11 of SI 373/2006
Annex A: “Map showing selective licensing designations with the designation boundaries marked in blue and the designation areas”
related works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth intend to make an Order, the general effect of which would be in: -
2. Lambeth High Street, the east side, suspend the parking places and ban parking, waiting and loading from a point opposite the northern boundary of No. 46 Lambeth High Street southward for 26 metres.
3. The bans would 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 would come into force on 23 June 2025 and would continue for a maximum duration of 6 months, or until the works have been completed whichever is sooner.
Dated 13 June 2025
1.
David Eaglesham Head of Network Management and Active Travel
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3 GLA ROAD (CLAPHAM HIGH STREET, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2025
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 Thames Water maintenance and repair works to take place on A3 Clapham High Street.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle except pedal cycles proceeding in a south-westerly direction on Clapham High Street from proceeding directly into Clapham Common South Side at its junction with Clapham Park Road.
The Order will be effective between 7:00 AM on 27th June 2025 until 7:00 PM on 30th 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 Clapham Park Road, Acre Lane, Brixton Hill, A205 South Circular Road, Poynders Road, Cavendish Road, Clapham Common South Side southbound, The Avenue and Clapham Common South Side northbound to normal route of travel.
Dated this 13th day of June 2025
Andrew Ulph Co-ordination Manager Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Solicitors and authorised agents for the applicant
NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO VARY A PREMISES LICENCE UNDER SECTION 34 OF THE LICENSING ACT 2003 RVLC Ltd has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth to vary a premises licence in respect of the following premises:
1.
2
4.
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16A
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES FOR STREET PARTIES AND OTHER SOCIAL EVENTS
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable street parties and other social events to take place, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth has made Orders the effect of which will be to ban vehicles from entering the following roads or lengths of road on the dates indicated:-
(a) (i) Hexham Road, the whole length;
(ii) Brantwood Road, from Dorchester Drive to No. 70 Brantwood Road;
(iii) Beechdale Road, between No. 10 Beechdale Road and No. 30 Beechdale Road;
(iv) Gleneagle Road, between the turning for Fairmile Ave, and Conyers Road;
(v) Steep Hill, between Woodbourne Avenue and Becmead Avenue; on Saturday 14 June 2025;
(b) (i) Deepdene Road, the whole length On Saturday 21 June
(c) (i) Stockfield Road, between Mount Nod Road and Rosedene Avenue; (ii) Leppoc Road, between Abbeville Road and Elms Crescent; (iii) Elm Park, between Brixton Hill Methodist Church and Endymion Road; (iv) Pearman Street, between Frazier Street and Emery Street; on Sunday 22 June 2025;
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via adjacent roads as directed by traffic signs.
3. The bans will only apply on the above dates at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs and barriers in the roads concerned.
Dated 13 June 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY WAITING RESTRICTIONS – VALLEYFIELD ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to reduce identified safety concerns arising from parking displacement in Valleyfield Road due to the introduction of the Streatham Wells Controlled Parking Zone, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth has made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily extend At Any Time Waiting Restrictions “double yellow lines” in that length of Valleyfield Road which lies between Valley Road and No. 4 Valleyfield Road as an interim measure while officers seek to progress a more permanent solution.
2. The Order will come into force on 9 June 2025 and continue in force for a maximum duration of 18 months (to allow for contingencies).
Dated 13 June 2025
Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
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 – PLANNING PERMSSION
LB - LISTED BUILDING
VOC - VARIATION OF CONDITIONS
ADV – ADVERTISEMENT CONSENT PIP
PERMISSION IN PRINCIPLE G11
PRIOR APPROVAL
Written representations should be made within three weeks of the date of this advertisement to the
Application
33 Lillieshall Road London Lambeth SW4 0LN Amendments to basement
proposed front lightwell and metal grille and alterations to materiality above the proposed glazed doors to the new rear extension. 25/01174/FUL
8 Harleyford Street London SE11 5SY Demolition of 8a Harleyford Street and construction of new 5 storey development, to provide 8 new homes (Use Class C3) and ground floor community use (Use Class F2), refurbishment and extension of Kennington Park Community Centre (Use Class F2) and associated cycle parking and hard and soft landscaping.
This application is a DEPARTURE APPLICATION: The proposed development is a departure from Policies ED1 (Offices) of the Lambeth Local Plan (2021). 24/03279/FUL
20 Cardigan Street London SE11 5PE Replace of existing single-glazed timber windows throughout with slimline heritage timber windows to match existing.
(Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 25/01671/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 25/01670/FUL) 25/01671/LB
1A Woodland Road London SE19 1NS Permission in Principle for one residential dwelling (Rear of 53 Westow Hill). 25/01100/PIP
32 Gauden Road London SW4 6LT Change of use of the House in Multiple Occupation - HMO (Use Class C4) into two residential units (1x2bed and 1x6 Bed) (Use Class C3). 25/01030/FUL
Herne Hill Railway Station Railton Road London SE24 0JW Application for Prior Approval Under Part 18 (Class A), Schedule 2 of the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) 2015 for the refurbishment of the canopy at the station. (Re-consulation due to revised drawings). 25/01315/G11
274 - 280 Brixton Road London SW9 6AG Display of a non illuminated wall mounted timber billboard measuring 6m x 3m. (Retrospective). 25/01700/ADV
Telephone Kiosk Outside 34 Clapham High Street London Display of a double-sided, internally illuminated digital LED screen. 25/01563/ADV
250 Kennington Lane London Lambeth SE11 5RD Demolition of the existing buildings; erection of a ground plus 7 storey building for use as purpose built student accommodation (Sui Generis) with bedrooms on upper floors and ancillary uses including a food and beverage use (Class E) at ground floor and a flexible venue space (Sui Generis) at basement level with cycle parking and landscaping and all necessary associated enabling works. 25/01611/FUL
516 Wandsworth Road London SW8 3JX Upgrade of existing EE rooftop equipment, involving the installation of 1no antenna to new support pole on plantroom wall, the removal of 3no. ERS, the installation of 3no. replacement ERS , and ancillary development thereto. (Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 25/01640/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 25/01639/FUL). 25/01640/LB
Dated this Friday 13th June 2025
Rob Bristow Director - Planning, Transport & Sustainability Climate and Inclusive Growth Directorate
BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE - KENNINGTON ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable OCU Group repair and maintenance works to be carried out, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from travelling eastbound in that length of Kennington Road which lies between No. 344 Kennington Road and No. 342a Kennington Road. Traffic will be allowed to enter the Kennington Road side-road from the Kennington Road main road.
2. 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.
3. The Order will come into force on 18 June 2025 and will continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 18 and 20 June 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 1 month.
Dated 13 June 2025
By Jon Batham at the Oval
DANNI WYATT-HODGE’S blistering 26-ball half-century set Surrey on their way to a thumping nine-wicket win over Durham in the Vitality Blast at the Oval last weekend.
The England opener struck 2 6s and 11 4s in her 74 (36), sharing a stand of 94 for the first wicket with skipper Bryony Smith (44 from 28) as the hosts chased down a target of 142 with 43 balls to spare to return to the top of the table.
The onslaught came after Durham fought back from 29-3 to total 141-5, Hollie Armitage anchoring the effort with 50 (49) while Bess Heath (27 from 18) and Mia Rogers (25 from 20) played eye-catching cameos.
There were two wickets apiece for Ryana MacDonald-Gay (2-16) and Tash Farrant (2-25).
Durham were soon in trouble, MacDonald-Gay uprooting Suzie Bates’ middle stump after the New Zealand international gave her the charge.
MacDonald-Gay was at it again in her next over, spreadeagling Mady Villiers’s stumps and when Emma Marlow chipped one from Tash Farrant into the hands of Paige Scholfield, the visitors were 29-3.
Durham fought back with Armitage playing the anchor role and Heath and Rogers providing the impetus. Heath twice drove powerfully over cover and then mid-off for four in racing to 27 before Bryony Smith clung on to a good catch at mid-off to cut her charge short.
Rogers should have been stumped on 12 off the bowling of Dani Gregory, but celebrated the reprieve with some good straight hitting until she too didn’t get enough onto another drive, Scholfield again showing safe hands on the boundary.
DANNI HITS BLISTERING HALF-CENTURY
partnership in sight Smith pulled one from Turner into the hands of Villiers to end the stand at 94.
Wyatt-Hodge though continued to brutalize the Durham bowling adding a second straight six to her boundary count as Surrey galloped home.
“It definitely is a big win. We bowled and fielded really well as a team and then Danni and Bry smashed it and got us over the line,” MacDonald-Gay said:
“It is always brilliant to contribute to the games. I love Suzie Bates, she’s a brilliant player, so she was a great wicket to take. If you keep the stumps in play you can have loads of different dismissals and it is a lot more difficult for the batter to score. You have to take high risks and if you miss I hit.
“We were very confident going into the batting innings. Bryony and Danni are very good players who work really well together because they are different and they score in different areas, so it must be really tricky to bowl to them as a pair.”
Durham all-rounder Villiers said:
“You always know with a team like this they are going to come at you hard no matter what you get.
Surrey thump Durham by nine wickets
Armitage ran hard throughout and finally found the fence twice late on while Katherine Fraser hit the last ball of the innings for six to set the target.
Smith was quick to take up the challenge clubbing Grace Thompson to the fence four times in her opening over and when spinner Katie Levick
Sky rains on Dulwich parade
Sutton 321-7 dec (59) vs Dulwich 24-0 (7) – match abandoned
By John Lewis
DULWICH TRAVELLED to Sutton in the Premier Division of the AJ Sports Surrey Championship last weekend, but the match was abandoned after seven overs of the second innings.
With rain forecast, Dulwich put their opponents in to bat and reaped an early reward when acting skipper Harvey Booth took two wickets with successive balls to reduce them to 27-2 after nine overs. But this brought in Jayden Broodryk, who dominated the rest of the innings, scoring 150 not out off 144 balls. Two other batsmen
made half centuries in support, but tight bowling kept the scoring rate in check until the later stages of the innings. Sutton declared on 321-7 after 59 overs as soon as Broodryk reached his landmark score. Booth picked up two more wickets to finish with 4-70 off 14 overs. James Schofield and Harrison Perry launched the Dulwich reply and had reached 24 without loss after seven overs when the rain, which had caused two earlier brief interruptions, set in for the rest of the day. The match was abandoned with both sides taking twelve points. All the other matches in the division were similarly abandoned, so Dulwich remain in seventh place. This weekend, Dulwich travel to Wimbledon, who have also won two and lost two of their completed matches and are currently two points behind in an unaccustomed eighth position.
came on for the third over she was driven and pulled with equal disdain by the Surrey skipper.
Wyatt-Hodge caught the mood, cutting and driving Trudy Johnson to the fence to raise the 50-partnership in 22 balls.
Things got worse for Durham when Phoebe Turner dropped Smith a mid-
Lynn ABC treble up
By John Kelly
LYNN ABC made it a treble at the London International Belt tournament in Hertfordshire last weekend.
Sahil Arubi was first up as he took on Ethan Weeks from Halling ABC. Arubi boxed superbly for all three rounds and won by unanimous decision.
Lynn coach Terry Pearson said: “This was Sahil’s second only bout of the season but he is showing improvement each time he competes.”
Courtney Vernon is the club’s only female boxer. She fought Tilly Souch from Paddy Johns ABC and also won by unanimous decision.
“This was a great win for Courtney as Tilly beat her earlier in the season in Courtney’s first bout,” Pearson said. “So to get the win in the belt competition was satisfying.”
In the senior division, Rasheed Odumoso defeated Leo Daley from
off on 34, but brilliant fielding on the fence at backward square saved a six from the next ball, the England allrounder parrying the ball back into play and keeping the hosts down to one.
Wyatt Hodge produced the first six, hammering Levick over the midwicket rope, but with the hundred
We didn’t go into their innings thinking we were massively shy, but in retrospect we were a few short, especially with how stacked they are with their batting line-up.
“Hollie stuck in there really well. It is something we have spoke about, having an anchor through the innings and then looking to kick on. Considering where we were at the end of the powerplay I think we did well to post a score like that.
“On a pitch like that against their batting line-up your margin for error is so small and if we missed slightly they punished us. Even our good balls were going for runs as well.
We have got a lot of young bowlers and it is good experience for them to be exposed to batters like them and we are just going to learn from it.”
Surrey were in action against The Blaze in midweek and travel to Essex this Sunday (June 15).
X Box ABC on a unanimous points decision.
Pearson described what their fighter was told.
Pearson said: “Rasheed was instructed that he must box to instruction to have any chance of winning as he was giving away a lot of experience to his opponent, and he did just that and won with a commanding performance.”
Meanwhile, Frankie Hanratty, Billy
MacDonald and Omari Sage Brown all received silver medals after winning their semi-finals, before falling short in their finals.
“I want to congratulate all the boxers that entered the competition,” Pearson said. “The way they all carried themselves over the weekend, they were a credit to the club.”
Lynn’s season has now finished but the club will remain open until July 22.
Photo by Keith Gillard Danni Wyatt-Hodge
Surrey 143-1 beat Durham 141-5 by nine wickets
Fighters Rasheed Odumoso, Sahil Arubi and Courtney Vernon
By John Kelly
NATHAN JONES said he was “proud and delighted” after signing a new five-year contract with Charlton Athletic.
Jones, 52, led the Addicks back into the Championship in his first full season in charge.
Jones took over a side eighteenth in League One in February 2024 before steering them away from relegation danger to a thirteenth-place finish.
After being mid-table more than halfway through last season, Charlton lost just three of their last 22 games of the regular League One campaign before beating Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off semi-finals and Leyton Orient 1-0 in the decider at Wembley.
Jones had been linked with a move to Cardiff City, who were relegated to League One last season. Jones started his youth career with the Bluebirds and is a supporter of the club.
But Charlton have now moved to secure their boss on a new long-term deal.
"I'm very proud and delighted,” Jones said. “I still had three years left but for the club to come to me and want to continue that journey meant a lot to me because it's a club that I love.
“We've just taken one big step, but that's only one big step, we still have a long way to go to achieve our goals and I'm glad that I'll continue to work towards that."
Club chairman Gavin Carter added:
"We have a really cohesive group forming at Charlton - from the players and coaching staff to the wider team behind the scenes and of course our supporters. Nathan has been a key part of that unity and our success on the pitch this season means we are ahead of schedule in our long-term planning for the club.
“Nathan understands the values of this club and shares our ambition for where we want to go. We’re thrilled to have him on board for the long-term.”
Managing director James Rodwell said: "Nathan has done an incredible job since returning to the club last year. His leadership has been crucial in developing a culture and structure that has enabled us to progress. His vision, energy and commitment to the club are clear to see, and we’re delighted he’ll be leading us forward. This longterm commitment enables us to plan, creates stability and allows us to develop a strategy that can only benefit the football club."
Charlton confirmed their first signing of the summer with midfielder Sonny Carey joining from Blackpool.
Johno
By John Kelly
RYAN JOHNSON is hoping to take the momentum from AFC Wimbledon’s League Two play-off success into next season after the defender signed a new two-year deal with the Dons.
Johnson, 28, made 49 appearances in all competitions last season including the final four games as the Dons kept four clean sheets. Johnnie Jackson’s side won those games 1-0, defeating Walsall in the decider at Wembley.
Johnson didn’t take long to decide to commit to the new deal.
“It was an easy decision to make once me, the gaffer and Craig [Hope, director of football] got together,” Johnson said. “It
The 24-year-old scored eleven goals in 37 games in all competitions last season.
He started his career with National League King’s Lynn before joining Blackpool for £100,000 in 2021.
“Sonny is a player I’ve known for a while,” Jones said. “He’s done well at Blackpool, he’s had a few seasons in the Championship and finished last season strongly.
“He’s 24 years of age, so has plenty of scope to improve, he’s athletic, he’s a ball-carrier, he can create, he can score, so those things add to what we’ve already got here. We always want our midfielders to chip in [with goals], our midfielders this year have and we want to add that competition and keep moving forward as a team and as a group. As a club we believe we’re moving forward, he can contribute
would’ve been rude not to continue the story we’ve written together. I’m delighted to stay, I’ve really enjoyed my time here and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds. We ended the season in a special way and now I want us to kick on in a new league.
“It’s a challenge that we’re relishing. There’s some big names in here but I think we’ll be fine, we’re going to enjoy the ride and see where we go with it.”
Reflecting on the play-off final, Johnson said: “It was really special. Every player had their friends and family there and it really became a proper day out. I was glad we were on the right end of it as it made it such a perfect way to end the season. We took pride in keeping clean sheets, so to get one at Wembley was equally as nice.
HIGH FIVE FOR JONES
Charlton boss rewarded with new deal after promotion success
to that and we believe he has the attributes to play for Charlton Athletic.”
Carey said: "I’m delighted, from the minute I had a call with the gaffer I knew straight away that this was the place for me. His aspirations for the club and the vision that he has are unmatched.
“I’m delighted that Charlton are back in the Championship, so I can’t wait to get started."
“Throughout the season we had one goal and I had to make sure I kept reminding the lads to believe in what we can achieve.”
Johnson added: “It’s important to manage how we prepare for next season. We can roll on the momentum of last season, I think that’s also important, but it’s about taking some time away, regrouping, digesting and coming back to focus on our new goal.
“I know what the core values of the club are, I know what I bring to the team. It’s a case of implementing the two together and hoping it ends in more success for us.
“One thing that stands out is how much the Club means to the community. It’s a special thing that’s driven into us as soon as we join. I want other players that come into this team to understand that.”
By John Kelly
Meanwhile, defender Thierry Small, 20, is leaving to join Championship rivals Preston North End on the expiration of his contract at the end of this month.
"We wish Thierry all the best,” Jones said. “We tried to keep him at the club and offered him a contract, which he turned down. He felt Preston was a better fit for him, so we thank him for his contribution and wish him well."
CHELSEA GOALKEEPER
Kepa Arrizabalaga is set to join Arsenal in a £5million deal.
Arrizabalaga, 30, joined the Blues in a world record £72million deal in the summer of 2018.
The Spaniard signed a new contract last summer - including that release fee - before moving
from AC Milan. The Blues are reportedly unwilling to meet the Italian side’s £25million transfer demand, but talks are continuing.
to AFC Bournemouth on loan and making 35 starts in all competitions to help Andoni Iraola's side to their best-ever Premier League finish of ninth. Chelsea want to sign France international goalkeeper Mike Maignan
Nathan Jones led the Addicks to play-off victory
By Will Scott
NEIL OUTLINES MILLWALL’S AMBITIONS FOR SUMMER WINDOW MILLWALL HEADS TO SPAIN FOR PRE-SEASON TOUR
ALEX NEIL said Millwall would be “looking to strengthen at the firstteam level” this summer.
The Lions finished the 2024-25 campaign strongly, winning eight games in twelve, before narrowly missing out on a play-off spot by two points after losing away at centurions Burnley 3-1 on the final day of the season. They now head into Neil’s first preseason as Millwall boss, and there have already been changes to the squad. Shaun Hutchinson, Murray Wallace, Duncan Watmore, George Saville, Liam Roberts, and Aaron Connolly will all depart The Den at the month upon the expiration of their contracts, and the Lions will be looking to add to the six
By Will Scott
MIHAILO IVANOVIC has been named the EA Sports FC EFL Young Player of the Month for April.
The 20-year-old striker was in fine form in April, scoring five goals in six appearances, including decisive braces in Millwall’s 2-1 win against Portsmouth and 3-1 win against Norwich City, and the Lions’ sole goal in their 4-1 loss away at Blackburn Rovers.
It was a successful end to the Serbian’s first season in English football, who joined the Lions for a then-club-record fee last August. Ivanovic ended the campaign as Millwall’s top goalscorer, with thirteen goals in 40 appearances.
Head Coach Alex Neil told Millwall’s website, “It’s really pleasing to see Mihailo recognised with this award - it’s the cherry on top of what has been a very successful first season for him in English football.”
Neil added, “It’s easy to forget how young he is, given the form he’s shown in front of goal. He’s only 20-years-old, away from his family, in a new league and country - but
long-term signings they made in the January window.
“I think we’re always looking to strengthen at the first team level,” Neil said. “It’s not just a case of strength indepth.
“I think what will happen is there’ll be opportunities in the market that will present themselves, and there’ll be others that we would like to pursue that might not come off for a variety of different reasons, whether it be finances, whether it be going to another team, whether it be, somebody maybe doesn’t want to move, logistics, whatever the case may be.
“But what we’ve had internal discussions about is: we want to come out this window in a stronger position than when we went into it, so that’s really quite clear. Jimmy wants to invest
in the club, invest in the squad, and try and improve us, but it’s not as easy as that. We’re not playing Championship Manager where you can just go and say, right, we’ll buy him and thanks you very much we’ll send you over that money. That’s not the way things work in reality.
“So there’s a lot of hard work that goes behind the scenes. The recruitment team, Steve Gallen, who’s obviously leading all that sort of side of things up is, pretty much on the phone 24/7. But, yeah, there’s huge amounts of work going on behind the scenes, and we’re confident that we’ll be in good shape coming to the start of this season.”
When asked about the preparations for the upcoming campaign, Neil said: “I’m always on the phone. Whether
it’s speaking to Jimmy, speaking to Steve, speaking to the staff members, speaking to the recruitment lads, just making sure that our lads are okay and that they’re enjoying their summer and getting the rest they need. Then also, obviously, looking to recruit players. I think that’s key. There’s been a lot of work going on in the background.
“Obviously, as soon as the season ends, there are always plans, because you need to organize pre-season. The difficulty you’ve got with pre-season at times is the Premier League teams won’t talk to us about games for preseason until their season finishes, and they run two weeks beyond us. There are loads of bits that are ongoing throughout the summer. Nothing different to what I’ve been used to in the past, it’s quite similar.”
the way he’s adapted and shown a desire to constantly improve his game has been great to see. Scoring
IVANOVIC BAGS EFL AWARD FOR APRIL
five goals at such a crucial stage of the season was massive for us and, as part of a huge team effort, helped
us fight for a top six spot right up until the final day. It’s great to see him rewarded for that form.”
By Will Scott
MILLWALL WILL head to Spain in July for a summer training camp and will play two pre-season friendlies. The Lions will face League One side Northampton Town at the Pinatar Arena in Murcia on Tuesday, July 15, with kick-off scheduled for 7pm local time.
The Cobblers finished nineteenth last season, five points above the drop zone, and are managed by Kevin Nolan. Millwall will play a second friendly on Friday, July 18, with details on the opponent and kick-off time to be confirmed soon.
The club are also due to face AFC Wimbledon away at Cherry Red Records Stadium on Tuesday, July 22, with kick-off scheduled for 7.30 pm. The Dons recently secured promotion to League One after beating Walsall 1-0 in the League Two play-off final. Tickets are currently on sale, with the Lions having an initial allocation of 1,200 seats.
SUMMER FRIENDLIES
Tuesday, July 15 Millwall vs. Northampton Town (7pm)
Friday, July 18 Millwall vs. (tbd) (tbd)
Tuesday, July 22 AFC Wimbledon vs. Millwall (7.30pm)
Saturday, July 26 Bromley vs. Millwall (3pm)
Tuesday, July 29 Sutton United vs. Millwall (7.45pm)
‘It’s a statement’ – why Neil committed to Millwall in the long-term
By Will Scott
ALEX NEIL described his decision to sign a new contract with Millwall as “a statement of my intention to be here for the longer term.”
As first reported by this paper, Neil signed a new contract with Millwall on Wednesday, June 4, that will keep him at the club for the foreseeable future, only just over five months after he was first appointed Lions boss on December 30.
The Scotsman took over a side that had only won once in their past nine games, and, after a slow start, guided
Millwall to within touching distance of the top six, with the Lions level on points with sixth-placed Coventry City heading into the final day of the season.
Millwall narrowly missed out on the play-offs after losing 3-1 away at second-placed Burnley, who finished the campaign unbeaten at Turf Moor, and finished eighth.
Neil wants to build on last season’s successes.
“It’s a huge feather in my cap in terms of the trust that Steve and Jimmy have shown in me,” Neil said. “They obviously gave me a new contract to
stay on and move the project on to what we want to try and do.
“Equally, I think it is hopefully a statement of my intention to be here for the longer term and try and build as a club. I think stability at every club is really important. I think a lot of people talk about it, but when it comes to the crunch, they don’t have the bravery sometimes to stick with it. So I think that we’re different in that respect.
“I know there’s been a lot of churn of late in terms of over the last couple of seasons, and I think that’s been something that’s not been planned, if
you like. From Jimmy’s perspective, I think there have been circumstances that have sort of led the way things have gone. But I think what it does show is how he sees sort of sustained success at the club, to try and achieve that. Hopefully, we can certainly build on that and do that together.
“For Jimmy and Steve and the club to have as much confidence in me, to give me a new contract to try and take this project forward, certainly for the next few seasons, is really important to me. It’s like anything else, that’s what you search for as a coach, because you want to be part of something bigger than yourself. You want to try and drive it forward.
“More importantly, you want to try and do it with people who you believe in and a manner which you believe in. I think we’ve got a strategy which we’re all completely behind, and we’re all singing from the same hymn sheet. The players understand what that is, the fans understand what that is, and that makes it really powerful. So from my perspective, I couldn’t really have hoped for the first four months to go as well as it has done, and I’ve committed myself to do that for even longer.”
Mihailo Ivanovic celebrates after scoring a brace against Norwich City
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MAGIC TUCH DESERTS ENGLAND
Crystal Palace
By John Kelly
THOMAS TUCHEL said there was no need to panic after England were beaten 3-1 by Senegal at the City Ground on Tuesday night - their first defeat to African opposition in 22 games.
Chelsea defender Levi Colwill.
England had won their first three games under Tuchel, to top their World Cup qualifying group a year out from the tournament.
“We lost a test match so there is no need to panic,” Tuchel said.
process and in the demands for ¬players to be nominated and to be with us in ¬September, October, November because we are in a World Cup season.”
England host Andorra and travel to Serbia in World Cup qualifiers in September.
England went in front in the friendly through Harry Kane’s 73rd international goal, his fourth in four games under Tuchel.
Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr equalised five minutes before the break before Habib Diarra and Cheikh Sabaly addled two more, either side of Jude Bellingham’s controversially disallowed goal for handball against
“We have three qualification games, we have nine points, we have not conceded and we will be competitive in September and we will go for two more victories, 100 per cent.
“We know more now, we are smarter. It is tough at the moment. I am the first one to dislike and hate losses but we don’t go next week, we go in one year and I think by nature it will get more competitive in the nomination
Tuchel added: “Now we go into a long break with a bad feeling and a loss which is simply not nice and not what we wanted. I will never be glad for a loss. I’m glad for a tough test and challenges. We wanted to feel the quality of a top-20 team and we felt their quality. We felt what it means to them. I heard them in the dressing room before the match, I heard them
Palace close to Mateta deal - but Euro fears still loom
By John Kelly
JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA is set to sign a new contract with Crystal Palace.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United but is set to commit his future to the Eagles.
Palace triggered a twelve-month extension to his contract until 2027 last December, but are eager to tie him to a longer deal.
Meanwhile, Palace are still trying to resolve their Europa League future.
Individuals who own more than one club taking part in a Uefa competition are forbidden to do so. US businessman
John Textor owns shares in Palace and French side Lyon, who have also qualified for next season’s second-tier European competition.
Palace qualified through winning the FA Cup, while Lyon finished sixth in Ligue 1. Under the rules, Palace would lose their place as they finished lower in their domestic league.
The Uefa deadline to resolve ownership issues ahead of next season was on March 1. That was the day the Eagles faced Millwall in the fifth round of a competition they had never won before.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have written to Uefa arguing that Palace are in clear breach of the rules.
Forest finished seventh last season and so would get Palace’s place if the South Londoners were booted out.
Forest’s owner Evangelos Marinakis also owns Greek champions Olympiakos but came to an ownership arrangement, with Forest threatening to qualify for the competition for much of the season before falling away.
Palace met with Uefa representatives last week but the issue has not been resolved.
in the dressing room after the match so I know how much it means to them to play against us. How much joy they expressed if they make this happen.
“It’s the right thing to test, the right thing to challenge. Of course we demand a lot of ourselves and I demand more of myself, we wanted to play better against Andorra, and do better today. It is a tough learning.”
Kane defended his boss. He said:
"This is only the manager's second camp and we have a lot of young players and inexperienced players at this level and international football is different to club football. But these aren't excuses, this is the reality. We have to be ready for the next season."
Oliver Glasner led the Eagles into Europe but club may miss out