AGM 2018 (3 October)
Opening and Welcome:
The AGM was called to order at 6.30pm by Susan Spiller, the Chairman, who welcomed our guest speaker Michael Holland, Head of Education, Chelsea Physic Garden. She also welcomed our councillors, Kim Taylor-Smith, Josh Rendall and Will Pascall as well as local police Miriam Parker, PCSO.
Guest speaker from the Chelsea Physic Garden:
Michael Holland, Head of Education at the Chelsea Physic Garden talked to our members about the gardens and its background. He in particular focused on the education programme, including courses for both adults and children. He also encouraged all members to visit the gardens and take advantage of its resources. Following questions and discussion with members, the Chair thanked our guest speaker.
Police Update:
Miriam Parker, PSCO, provided an update to members. She noted the recent 38% increase in crime. In particular, she noted the importance of people to ensure that houses are locked when not at home, not leavings items visible in cars; as well as taking care of mobile phones and purses when walking due to thefts by thieves on motorbikes. She mentioned the ability for residents to obtain a free security assessment from the police and details to be circulated.
2017 AGM Business
Minutes of Prior Meeting:
The minutes of the 2017 SSDRA AGM were presented to the meeting and the minutes were agreed.
Treasurers Report:
David Farlow, Treasurer, presented the financial report. These have been reviewed / audited by Heather Gumbrell.
SSDRA Committee Appointments:
Three committee members were re-appointed for the coming year.
- Susan Spiller, Chair
- David Farlow, Treasurer
- Laura Carrara-Cagni, Planning
The Chair noted that the Membership Secretary, Mark Baynham, was resigning due to other commitments. And she thanked him for his help on the committee. She requested that any members willing to join the committee to please get in touch with any member of the committee.
To receive the Chairman’s Report:
Susan Spiller delivered her annual report to the meeting. Her main points were directed at the major local planning issues.
- Crossrail2 – Following a consultation in 2015, and the announcement last Autumn of a costs review, Crossrail 2 has been looking at some of the alternative options for the railway line. Budget issues may mean that they need to eliminate some stations or otherwise cut costs. In addition, delays to CR1 mean that any work on CR2 is also likely to start later.
- Royal Brompton Hospital – Following the planning permission received by the Brompton in 2017; this year they have focused initially on the imaging building located on Dovehouse St.
- Auriens (2 Dovehouse) – During 2018, Auriens had the demolition firm, Tower, demolish and remove the old Thamesbrook building. Some members at the south end of Sydney Street noticed vibrations inside their homes. Since then, the firm Knight Build has been digging the new basement, boring pilings; erected two cranes and will now begin to frame the new building. SSDRA has met several times with Auriens at their model apartment. We have an active dialogue with them and will continue to meet on a regular basis.
- Sutton Estate – Clarion proposed revisions to their original plans, including more social rented housing on site and reduce the private housing. After public consultation, the case was then referred to the Planning Inspector with responsibility for determining the appeal to the Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. They expect to have a decision by the end of the year.
- 220-236 Kings Road (Habitat/Curzon) – The Cadogan Estate has commenced work on this site as evidenced by the hoarding and temporary bus stop location. They have committed to keeping us updated throughout the three+ years project. Final completion is expected spring 2022.
The Chair’s update was followed by questions and answers by members. The three councilors Cllr Kim Taylor-Smith, Cllr Will Pascall, and Cllr Josh Rendall all provided updates and responded to questions.
The AGM was formally brought to a close by the Chairman at 8pm.