The AGM was called to order by the President at 1830. The President, Brian Leathard welcomed members, guests and residents.
Minutes of 2013 AGM: The Chairman, (SS), asked for the minutes of the 2013 AGM to be agreed.
To receive the Chairman’s report: Susan Spiller, Chairman, delivered her annual report to the meeting. Her main points were regarding major, local Planning issues.
- The Royal Brompton Hospital and redevelopment of other separate properties
- Crossrail 2
- The old Post Office Sorting area in Chelsea Manor Street
- The Sutton Estate
- The Cadogan Estate’s proposal to redevelop the Habitat, Curzon site. A guest speaker will be present at the AGM
- Basement developments
Update From PC Mark Lyons (Metropolitan Police): PC Lyons’ team confirmed the closure of Chelsea Police Station and its proposed sale and gave details of Belgravia Police Station which is open 24 hours. PCSO figures are to be reduced and some will transfer to become Police Officers. Local issues for current Neighbourhood Police Unit are problems with street drinkers, homeless persons and beggars. KTS asked if Police liaison meetings could be resurrected. A reference was made to noise nuisance from supercar owners and anti-social behaviour by moped owners.
To confirm the Accounts for 2013/2014 and receive the Treasurer’s Report: . The Treasurer confirmed that the balances in the SSDRA accounts amounted to £6,282.92 and thanked Heather Gumbrell for the auditing of the accounts.
To re-appoint the Committee: The Committee was re-appointed and members were invited to join the committee to assist in planning matters.
Guest Speaker from The Cadogan Estates Ltd: Mr Hugh Seaborn, gave an overview of the history of the Chelsea and Knightsbridge parts of the estate. The current portfolio is half residential, half commercial and includes part of the Kings Road. Commercial redevelopments of the estate in Chelsea are subject to careful scrutiny by the management team. The Habitat/Curzon redevelopment scheme has been ongoing for some time. Mr Seaborn pointed out that Cadogan, as a landlord of only part of the Kings Road, did not have the same power as De Walden, who control Marylebone High Street. Cadogan wants to improve the retail element in Habitat/Curzon as the present configuration is “obsolete” in Cadogan terms. Cadogan is committed to improve the Curzon cinema,(at present it requires handicapped access and available seating exceeds demand). Members of the audience were not wholly convinced and a lively debate ensued.
The AGM was formally brought to a close by the Chairman and she thanked our guest speaker.