IF ONLY OSCOTT HAD 10 MILLION?

I understand that plans are about to be drawn up for a new 10 million pound Civic Centre for Sutton Coldfield. If this is the case all I can say is it is all right for some.
I am sure the residents of Oscott could think of better uses for the money.
(Please don't ring me with suggestions on this occasion as the chances of Oscott getting any reasonable amount of money from this Council are slim to none existent.)

THREAT TO QUESLETT NATURE RESERVE

This is the site of the last play area on the Queslett Nature Reserve and where a Skate Board Park has been prosed for. Please note there is no evidence left of the last Play area, as it was completely destroyed by vandalism

...........................................................................



A number of local residents and members of the Queslett Nature Reserve have now contact me with concerns about the threat of building a Skate Board Centre on the Queslett Nature Reserve.
As far as I can ascertain this threat is not likely to occur although you can never say never.
Certainly I can speak for both Councillor Dring and myself when I say we are totally apposed to such a silly idea. Here are just a few reasons why.

• Perry Barr Park is a better option.


• There is no regular ranger service on the Queslett Nature Reserve.


• The QNR is a reserve and it has now been up graded to a SSSI category for its importance to nature.


• There would be problems regarding the security (observation of the site proposed)


• It would disturb the wild life and the activities of those using the reserve.


• If there was an accident the Ambulance Service would have difficulty accessing the site.


• It would encourage Motor bikes and other acts on anti social behavior on the reserve.


• It would alienate many locally residents and users of the reserve.


• The idea has been put forward without any consultation.


• It is not on a handy bus route.


• It would undermine all the hard work carried out by the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve to improve the reserve.

In fact it is hard to see any merit in the idea and not a lot of thought seems to have gone into the proposal? For the view of the Friends of the Queslett nature Reserve please go to Google and then to the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve.

This is an importatnt decision and politics should be kept out of it for the sake of the young people in Oscott.

If you would like to discuss this issue with me please ring 360 6486

OLD NEW HOPE FOR PROBLEM PARKING OUTSIDE GB SCHOOL

I was pleased to note that the Great Barr School have put in a request for planning permission regarding using one of their old disused play grounds for staff parking.
This idea was put to them by myself and former Councillor John Cotton about 5 years ago and I am pleased that the School is finally looking seriously at the option. While we are waiting I will be carrying on working with local residents and monitoring the parking situation.

WITTON CEMETERY NEEDS A SPRING CLEAN NOW

Following receiving a couple of complaints only very recently about Witton Cemetery I have popped in to take a look for myself and have been surprised to see, it has deteriorated since the last time I went in September. There are overflowing litter bins and the place looks unkempt.
I have been in touch with the Head off the Bereavement Services who have informed me it is due to seasonal problems, more visitors and so on.
Given this is an even more sensitive time for those visiting the cemetery, this is not acceptable and I have called for an early spring clean of the cemetery. It looks More like Council cuts to me but I could be wrong.?

SEASONAL GREETINGS

I would like to take this opportunity to wish anyone reading my blog all the very best for the festive season.
It is also my hope that you will continue to read my blog in the coming year. (Yes even those of a different opinion to my self and who may be tempted to use my blog for ideas on their leaflets?)

Many residents in Oscott have been kind enough to help me with many campaigns and issues during the course 2008 and to those I would like to pass on my thanks. Much of what I may have achieved has been down to us working together.

It goes without saying I will also be carrying on working closely with my Colleague Councillor BARBARA DRING, to do what we can for Oscott Residents and losing a colleague of the calibre of John Cotton has been a problem, we have had to over come.
BARBARA has worked tirelessly on Issues such as where to locate a proposed Skate Board facility, on finding new a home for the Link Play group and on issues like tidying up the island near the Bandywood Shopping area, just to name a few. I like to think as a team we compliment each other in what we do.

Sadly Khalid Mahmood the MP for Perry Barr has been seriously ill recently, but despite that, he has been involved in a number of initiatives to improve the Oscott area and I wish him a speedy recovery.

I have tried to help as many individual residents as possible in 2008. I have had some success and some failures but I do hope residents will know I have done what I can for them.
If I have not been successful on your behalf, I am more than will to have another go if you wish and who know we may have more success next time. However as you will be aware I will make you know promise other than I will try and help if I can. If you would like to contact me please ring 360 6486.

Once again may I wish you and your family and Friends all the very best for the festive season and for the New Year.

Regards

Councillor Keith Linnecor

The one in the middle of the photo !!!!

AGE CONCERN THROW A PARTY

One of the nice things about this time of year is being able to pop in and see some of Oscott more elderly residents enjoying them selves at their Christmas "do's"
I was pleased to be able to pop in for example and see a number of elderly residents enjoying their Christmas party at the Emanuel Church. This was organised by Age Concern as part of their Be Friending Scheme. There was good for and entertainment on offer so I kept my hollows to a minimum, but as ever enjoyed myself there.
Age Concern really do a good job for the elderly in the oscott area and I would like to thank them for all their work. If you would like to know more about their activities please give me a ring on 360 6486

LOCAL SWIMMING POOLS UNDER THREAT?

There is now a rumour going round that because the Council want to build a Olympic size swimming pool in the South of Birmingham, Local swimming pools , Beeches Road, and Dulwhich Road, may be sacrificed to find the money for it.?

I am not aware of any such proposals at the moment but I will be monitoring the situation While Birmingham does need a swimming pool of international standard it certainly should not be at the expense of other local swimming baths.

As with Post offices and Local Shops the onus is also on residents to make sure they use these facilities or risk losing them. With the Government backed Gym for free scheme, many residents can now use the Beeches Road swimming baths facilities for free and I hope they will use them as often as possible.

For more details about this this scheme ring 464 0208 and make the most of this facility.

GO AHEAD GIVEN FOR NEW COLLEGE

At today's Planning Committee the new Sutton College planning application for the old dairy site on Aldridge Road was given the go ahead. The new college will replace the old Great Barr Campus and the Stockland Green Josiah Mason Campus. It will have over 2,500 staff and and students. At its highest have 6 floors.
While I have welcomed this development and recognise that the new building design is good and the plans will mean less trouble for Oscott residents near the old Great Barr Site near Beeches Road. I still have concerns about the parking arrangements for the development and the surrounding areas.
However there will be monitoring of the parking situation for 5 years and money put to one side to help ease any problems. I have also asked that the near by river is protected during any building work on the site. All in all it is a development to be welcomed and it can not come soon enough.

ANTI SOCAIL BEHAVIOR DETERRENT FOR GREAT BARR LEISURE CENTRE

Due to the diligent work of PC Casson the Oscott Schools Liaison officer, funding has been found to have prickly bushes planted near the Great Barr Leisure Centre wall (next to the Aldridge Road Recreation Ground.)

Although there have been some delays, it is hoped these plants will go in early next year.
Given the anti social behavior occurs near the offending wall and the graffiti on it, which has to be cleaned off regularly, I was only to pleased to offer my support for this project.
Hopefully the planting of these bushes, will complement proposals to install new CCTV cameras near the Great Barr Leisure Centre and will help combat the anti social behavior which is happening there.

deterrent

THE ALDRIDGE ROAD DAY CENTRE MAY BE SET TO CLOSE?

The Aldridge Road Day Centre (an Establishment which caters for adults with learning difficulties) is now under threat of closure. There is apparently going to be a 12 week consultation period, which is never a good sign!
As you may have read on my 11th November Post I did visit the Centre back in November and was concerned about how the buildings had been allowed to deteriorate and the poor moral of the staff there. However the users of the Centre were all happy and well looked after by the staff. All of which I reported to the Social Services department.

It would appear to me now that it may be the case that the Council have been letting the condition of the building deteriorate, as a way of convincing people it is time the centre closed? I hope this was not the case. The announcement just before Christmas is a real body blow for all concerned.

Those who use the centre (some of the most vulnerable members of our community) in many cases have been going there for many years and it would be a big up evil to them and their families, if they had to have to go else where. In fact to many of the users, the Centre is a second home to them, where they feel safe and have activities to do. It would be a great shame no a disgrace!!! if this centre has to close.

SECURITY LIGHTING STOLEN FROM MARY VALE COMMUNITY CENTRE

I was very saddened to hear that flood lighting on the Mary vale Community at night have been stolen. These lights which were part funded by the Oscott Ward Committee have helped keep dozens of local youngster occupied during the evening playing football, organised by the Mary Vale Youth Club. If you have any information about these stolen lights please contact the Police they are badly needed by the youth club and the Mary vale Centre..

THE SAINT MARKS DAY CENTRE HAS A GOOD DAY

It was really nice to be invited again to the Saint Marks Day Centre (for elderly residents)Christmas Party.
Although I have not been a committee member for some time I do pop in from time to time to see if there is any help I can give and I always receive a warm welcome.
At today's "bash" every one had a good time the food was excellent, crackers were pulled and the day centre careers cheerfully ran themselves ragged.

MORE LITTER BINS ARE NEEDED NOW

We need more of these litter bins in Oscott

One of the lessons I am learning from the Save our Shops campaign is the need for still more litter bins in the area. Not just on our shopping centres but also on routes used by school children and so on. I have in the past had a lot of new litter bins put in around the Oscott Ward, but this Council are slow at replacing any that are damaged and that need to changed or replaced.

I have put in a number of requests for litter bins recently but I am always ready to listen to suggestions as to where even more would be useful. If you know a location calling out for a litter bin let me know 360 6486 and i will add on your suggestion to my list of requests and will try and get the Council to take action. These litter bins do after all play their part in keeping Oscott tidy, with less litter on our streets, not to mention helping to reduce dog fouling.

SUPPORT IS GROWING FOR THE SAVE OUR SHOPS CAMPAIGN

Shop keepers on the Aldridge Road near the Dyas Road junction have now come out in support of the Save our shops campaign. Many of these hard working traders have been let down by a disinterested Council,l but I hope to remind the Council and local residents that they are there and need support. I am pleased to say that the Great Barr Observer are getting behind this campaign also.

I have for example ensured their views have been listened to at a recent Transportation consultation meeting, looking into road safety in the area.

I am also asking Khalid Mahmoods MP's office (sadly he is ill at the moment) to look into the issue.

ELIM CHURCH SERVICES OVER CHRISTMAS

The Elim Church will be holding Christmas Services, on the 21st of December, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For the times of these services or for further details please ring 350 9650

STANDING OUT AGAINST PARKING CHAOS

At today's Planning committee I stood alone in arguing for another look at a possible parking nightmare. This is what may now result from the granting of a Planning application, for a Travel Lodge with food takeaway, off the Aldridge Road on the Tame way Park , Perry Barr.
This planning application only has enough parking space for 46 cars and there are 6o rooms for example.
There are parking problems in the vicinity of this planning application already and with the expected building the new Sutton College Centre just across the Aldridge Road in a year or two, I can see a lot of problems.
I am not against the plans for a Travel Lodge and acknowledge a number of jobs will be created by the new hotel. However the parking issues now and in the future, in my view have simply not been addressed.

THE VALLEY NURSING HOME HAS CLOSED

Sadly due to a number of circumstances the privately owned Valley elderly peoples nursing home has closed.
I have been in touch with the Birmingham City Council director of Social Services asking him to do what he can to ensure the elderly residents in this area get a replacement ASAP.

FREE SWIMMING AND GYM USE

The HOB PCT are offering the free use of Swimming, Fitness classes or Gym facilities, in the Oscott area.
To find out more take a look at my October 27th post or ring 464 0208.
Alternatively pop into your nearest Lesure Centre for more details.

MORE CCTV CAMERAS ARE WANTED FOR GREAT BARR LESURE CENTRE AND ALDRIDGE RECREATION GROUND.

Following the success of the introduction of a CCTV camera which covers the play area and parts of the Aldridge Road Recreation Ground, there has been a request for another CCTV Camera.
Because of problems with anti social behavior over the years on the Aldridge Recreation ground the first camera was installed a couple of years ago. This was when a childrens Play area was installed.
In the last twelve months or so 5 individuals have been arrested thanks to this camera. Now I have been asked to help secure funding for a second camera. As you may guess I will do what I can to help the Leisure Centre find the funding. We need to ensure there is no build up of anti social behavior on this site.

SLOW DOWN NEEDED IN MOOR LANE

Moor Lane residents and drivers are asking how many more damaged fences and scratched cars does it take for this Councils Transportaion department to take action and introduce Road safety measures to Moor Lane.
I know one residents at least who has had three wing mirrors smashed from his cars by speeding motorists using Moor Lane. Residents are getting fed up, all over the Osott area, with a Transportation department who refuse to take preventative action to stop speeding traffic and only take action if there is a serious acccident.

SKATE BOARD CENTRE IS NOT WANTED ON QUESLETT NATURE RESERVE

I have been approached by members of the public and by fellow members of the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve about rumours, that there is now consideration being given re, locating the proposed Skate Board Centre on the Queslett Nature Reserve.
As far as I am aware there is no prospect of this happening, as the Skate Board Centre Option put forward by Councillor Barbara Dring (for it to go in Parry Barr Park on the Aldridge Road side) is still by far the best option and has the agreement of 2 of the Oscott Councillors and the 3 Perry Barr Councillors. I have Spoken to Councillor Ray Hassell, who is the Councillor with responsibility for Leisure Services, an he would also be unhappy if a skate board Centre was put on the reserve.
I will continue to monitor this rumour.

THINGS FOR KIDS TO DO ON PERRY BEECHES

Youngsters who live on the Beeches estate (and their parents) often tell me there is nothing to do for kids on the estate!
Well here are a few suggestions.

Why pop into the Perry Baptist Church and join one of their clubs.
For the 4 to 10 year old's there is the 3CS Club which meet on Tuesdays 5.30pm to 7.30 pm.
For those over 10 years old there is the FNL club which meets on a Friday evening 6.30 to 9.15.
For more details pop along at the times given above.

Alternatively why not go along to the Perry Beeches Swimming baths or Perry Beeches School Leisure Centre and find out all about the activities they have on offer. Oh and don't forget the Tree Hurst Community Centre.

For further details ring 464 1869

ALDRIDGE ROAD LOCAL SAFETY SCHEME PHASE 11

• 
  * *
  
  There will be a meeting arranged by the TRansportaion department, on December 10th at the great barr school, 5.30am. At this meeting there will be an oppotunity to discuss the above scheme.
  It is very important to look after the road safety needs of the Children attending the Great barr School and Junior School and it is also important for locay residents to have their say.
  
  Some of the points I have already made are to the Transportation department are.
  
• I would strongly object to the re locating further up Dyas Road the bus shelter currently located near the junction of Dyas Road and Delhurst Road.
• There needs to be consideration given to finding more off street parking.
  
• There is urgent need for a crossing facility at the end of Dyas Road near the Aldridge Road junction. either a School Crossing patrol or a pedestrian crossing?
• A Traffic light system at the end of Dyas Road should be considered it could include the above. Or even a School Crossing Warden?


• The amounts of bollards being placed the pavements near shop frontages needs to be carefully considered.


• Residents and local schools should continue to be consulted regarding all stages of these proposals.


• Care needs to be taken not just to move problems from one spot to another.

**

The Aldridge Road junction has needed action taken with regards to helping School children cross the Dyas Road for some years. Children from the Great Barr schools, Glenmead and Perry Beeches Schools also often cross at this point.

As there were a number of issues raised when the former Safety Scheme was presented to residents earlier in the year, I am pleased they have heeded Councillor Dring and myself and come forward to meet with residents to discuss the issues again.

VEHICLE ACTIVATED SPEED SIGNS FOR THE OSCOTT WARD

In order for Birmingham City Council to help achieve their LPSA2 road safety targets by the end of the 2008 calendar year, various schemes and initiatives are being introduced city wide. One of these schemes involves the installation of Vehicle Activated Speed (VAS) signs at strategic locations as highlighted by Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Casualty Reduction Scheme.

VAS signs are triggered by oncoming vehicles which are travelling above the designated speed limit for that road. Once triggered, the VAS sign displays the speed limit along with the words “Slow Down” in an attempt to make the driver more conscious of their current speed and for them to reduce it.
The Council is proposing to install 31 signs across the city, of which 26 are fixed and 5 are movable. In the Oscott Ward it is intended to install one of these signs. This would be on the Queslett Road East. It is the Councils intention to complete the works within the calendar year.
I am in favour of the proposed site for the VAS but there need to be consideration for another such signs further down the Queslett Road towards the Old Horns Island and other safety issues on this road still need addressing.
The work is supposed to be carried out as a matter of urgency. I will do what I can to ensure it does not get the Councils Nova Court Junction treatment i.e. being held up for moths on end by a dithering Transportation department. I will also be asking for more of these signs in other locations in Oscott.
I would also like to thank all those residents who have worked so hard to get the Council to make safety improvements to this road we are slowly getting there.

If you want me to pass on your views please give me a ring on 360 6486

IS THIS THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF A FULL TIME ENVIRONMENTAL WARDEN IN OSCOTT?

There are now moves afoot from the current Council Administration to reduce the number of Environmental Wards in the city to 40. (it was over 50)
The proposals also advocate each constituency only having 3 Wards each (there are 4 wards per constituency) with 10 wardens used as a kind of flying squad across the City.
At yesterdays Council meeting I argued strongly that each ward in the city have its own Regulatory Warden.
These wardens like Debi Parsons Oscott's well known former warden, should be multi skilled, have local knowledge, be hands on and have enforcement powers.
Although I may have lost the day I was pleased that at least some of the Conservative and Liberal Councillors agreed with me.
We need to take our environment seriously.
Councillor Barbara Dring and I will continue the battle to keep a warden in Oscott.

DONATE TO EDUCATE

We always seem to hear bad news when it comes to youngsters these days. This is why I was so pleased to read in the Great Barr Oberver, about their joint campaign with children from the Great Barr School to help educate poor children in Sierra Leone. Their Donate to Educate campaign is something I hope will realy catch on.
Not only will the Children in Sierra Leone benifit but those Great Barr School children learning about the problems of the world will also gain much from this expeirence.

If you would like more dtails about the Donate to Educate please contact the Great Barr School.

COUNCILLOR BARBARA DRINGS CAMPAIGN FOR A SKATE BOARD PARK IN PERRY BARR PARK GOES ON

Khalid Mahmood MP and my self after reviewing the Conservative Councillor for Oscott options, for alternative locations for a Skate Board Centre in Oscott are not convinced.
We still support Councillor Barbara Dring and her campaign to have a Skate Bord Centre in the Perry Barr Park.
The options put forward recently are flawed in our view.
The Aldridge Road Recreation Ground option has a lot of opposition from concerned residents. Local Council Officers are wary that the problems on the recreation ground already regarding anti social behavior, would only get worse if there was a Skate Bord on the site.
The option regarding having a skate Board park opposite the Great Barr School would have the major snag in that the land there id not for public use for the next 20 years because of gas given off as a result of it being an old waste tip.
I am sure we all have the interests of youngsters at hart and hopefully a resolution to this matter can be reached soon.

ITS TIME THIS COUNCIL WERE AT YOUR CONVENIENCE

PUBLIC TOILETS ARE NEEDED FOR THE HAWTHORN ROAD SHOPPING AREA





For some years now I have been requesting that the old public toilet block on the Kingstanding Road near Dyas Road which was sold off, be replaced.
Year after year this Council Authority have tuned down my requests. They do not seem to care that many of those shopping in the area, are elderly and need this convenience. It could also be that having public toilets in the vicinity of the Hawthorn Shopping area could help local shops by encouraging more shoppers, especially the elderly, to do their shopping in the area.
Now the Authorities tell me they do not even have the money to transfer a public toilet from an area it is unwanted, to the Hawthorn Road area. They also do not have the money to maintain a public toilet.
I will not however give up and for the sake of the elderly and all residents in the Oscott area I will keep asking for this facility to be put in the Hawthorn Road shopping area.

LETS HOPE WE TO NOT HAVE A NEW PLAGUE OF ABANDONED CARS

I thought I would ask the cabinet member for Street Services the following Question (written) at the next Council meeting. I wonder what his answer will be. I hope he has been taking action or we could end up with abandoned cars in every road.?

CITY COUNCIL – 2 DECEMBER 2008

WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE CABINET MEMBER FOR TRANSPORTATION FROM COUNCILLOR KEITH LINNECOR

“ Metal menace ”

Question:

Given that the price of scrap metal is dropping significantly and car breakers and scrap metal dealers will not be so keen to take away scrap cars, are any measures being put in place to counteract any increase in abandoned vehicles on our road, which may well be the result?

QUESTIONS THAT NEED ANSWERING

At today's Planning Committee we were asked to review the Birmingham City Councils Draft Parking Policy and to offer up our responses on it.

Having read this some what inner city orientated vague document I asked four questions.

• Why can this Council Administration not reintroduce the subsidy on drop curbs to help reduce them from their ridiculously current prices?
• Why is there not more enforcement on our double yellow lines.?
• Why when there are many empty small spaces on many of our Council car parks can there space not be used for Motor bikes or bicycle parking.
• Why are our grass verges being left in such a state.

There was not a lot of time for more questions and they have gone away to add my questions and other Members. to there consultations. I wonder if anything will be done about these issues?

A MESSAGE FROM THE MP FOR PERRY BARR

Khalid Mahmood the MP for Perry Barr has asked me to pass on his thanks to all those who have sent him get well messages recently.
As you may be aware Khalid was rushed into hospital last week, with a serious Kidney Complaint. Now after urgently needed medical treatment, he hopes to be out of hospital by the end of this week and after some time convalescing he hopes to take up the challenge of being the MP for Perry Barr again.
In the meantime, he has an experienced staff working for him and his constituents, from his Perry Barr constituency office , based at Paper Mill End in Oscott.
I have also agreed to help out where I can, with any issues relating to the Oscott and Perry Barr Wards.

If you would like to contact his office the number is 356 8264.

In the meantime I am sure we all wish Khalid a speedy recovery.

CYCLISTS MAKE SURE YOU CAN BE SEEN

At this time of year many parents think of buying their off spring bikes for Christmas. This is fine but make sure you do not forget to make sure they have the vital equipment bike riders need to be safe at this time of year.

• Working lights
• Refective clothing
• A helmet.

I have been in touch with the Police as usual at this time of year and asked them to remind bike riders, to make sure they use their lights on their bikes, as they often do not seem to realise how hard they can be to see at night by motorists. Lets hope the message gets accross.

SKATE BOARD CONTROVERSY.

A POSSIBLE SITE FOR A NEW SKATE BOARD CENTRE. PERRY BARR PARK ON THE ALDRIDGE ROAD JUST YARDS FROM ALL THE MAIN BUS ROUTES TO AND FROM THE HART OF OSCOTT.


Councillor Barbara Dring and I have been working hard to find a location for a proposed scate board facility for some time. We have looked at a number of options in Oscott and found where ever we would have liked to put it, would cause a number of problems either logistically or with Local residents. With this in mind we have been working with the Liberal Councillors in the Neighbouring Perry Barr Ward to seek a solution. We have come up with Perry Barr park where there are proposals to revamp the BMX track as well. This site is on the edge of Oscott near all the main bus routes and the Park has been used by Oscott residents for generations.
The one problem we have however is the Oscott conservative Councillor is now objecting to the proposal. On behalf of the youngster in Oscott I hope we can resolve his issues with the proposals as soon as possible and we can all move forward with this initiative on behalf of the youngsters in the area. We all have the interests of Oscott Kids at hart.

BUSY BEE NURSERY TO GO

I was contacted by member of the Busy Bee Nursery staff this week who had heard last Friday, their Nursery would be closing in July next year. They were informed of the by the Sutton Coldfield (Great Barr Campus) This is a great shame, Busy Bees have been been using the college building for 15 years, have 90 children attending the nursery (they are over subscribed) and employ 30 staff, mainly from the Oscott area.
SuttonColdField College want the rooms where the Busy Bee nursery use, for students who will be coming from the Joshua Mason College as part of a land deal with Birmingham City Council.
Residents are rightly concerned about the effect all this will have on the already awful parking ,there is around the college.
The college have indicated they need the space for these new students at the college and will try and create more parking spaces.
I am not convinced. I think more should be dome for the Busy Bee Nursery and they should have been allowed to stay until the College moves in 2010.
As Busy bees have no alternative locations to go to I have asked the Council to help them find somewhere to re locate if possible. We need this facility in Oscott for Oscott Children and we need to keep Oscott resident employed
If you know of a suitable location where the Busy Bees Nursery may find a new home please give me a ring 360 6486.give employed.

NEW STYLE TRANSPORT USERS FORUMS ON THE WAY

I Chaired a meeting of the Birmingham. Transport Users Forum yesterday for the first time. This is a forum where residents interested in Public Transport can come along and discuss issues with WMPTA Members, Public Transport providers (Rail, Bus, Metro,) the Police Travel Unit and Centro Officers.

The format of these meeting is due to go local next year in as much as there will be 5 meetings a year. One meeting will be held in the Centre of Birmingham and one each in four different areas of Birmingham. The Chairs of these meeting will, rotate with a locally based WMPTA Councillor Chairing a meeting near his/ her own patch. It is also hoped more local resident will get involved.

If you would like more details about how the TUF meeting operate or how you could get involved with them please ring me on 360 6486

NEW GATES FOR KING GEORGE PLAYING FIELD

After year of campaigning along side local resident Brian Stevens it is good to see the gates and fencing go up at the entrance to the Keston Road entrance to the King George Playing fields.
This fence although low in height will put off youths from hanging around at this entrance causing problems to local residents. Also the new " kissing gate" should help stop motor bikes getting onto the field from this entrance.

QUESLETT NATURE RESERVE ACTIVITY DAY A GREAT SUCSESS

A number of the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve and members of the public spent an interesting morning watching bird ringing taking place on the Queslett Nature Reserve today.
Dozens of wild birds were caught identified and ringed. We were also given a talk on the wild life in the reserve.
Later in the afternoon a number of FOQNR volunteers helped Council officers who were working on their day of to carry out tree pruning on the site.
To all those who came along can I thank you very much and hope you enjoyed the events.

THis is a list of the birds spotted during the day.

Woodpigeon
Feral pigeon
Redwing (30+)
Starling
Blackbird
Dunnock
Wren
Goldfinch
Greenfinch
Chaffinch
Meadow pipit
Goldcrest
Reed bunting
Lesser black backed gull
Black headed gull
Kestrel
Carrion crow
Jay
Jackdaw
Magpie
Great tit
Blue tit
Long tailed tit
House sparrow
Cormorant
Grey heron
Gadwall, 10 +
Wigeon, 50+
Tufted duck
Coot
Moorhen
Mute Swan
Mallard

Not bad and even I reconised some of them!

RESIDENTS SAY NO TO BURNHAM TAKEAWAY

A number Burnham Road residents and local traders have contacted to day and asked for my support, to try and stop a planning application for a take away in Burnham Road being allowed..
They will get my full support and I am sure that of Councillor Barbara Drings to.

The plans to open a take way close to a junction that has been plagued by parking problems the way this junction has for the last 4 or 5 years if frankly ridiculous. The existing takeaways near this junction cause enough problems and the parking problems caused by students from the near by Great Barr college is to say the least at times dangerous. The Police have not got the man power to deal with current parking problems at this junction and the Councils Transportation department, have been dithering for some time trying to come up with a solution.
There have also been a history of anti social behavior associated with the shopping area where the take away is proposed for and a number of residents have stopped complaining because of fear of reprisals.
Residents are now collecting a petition which they have asked me to present to the Planning Committee on Thursday and I am only to willing to do so on their behalf.

SAVE OUR SHOPS CAMPAIGN OFF TO A GOOD START

Residents were very please to see our SOS campaign kick off on Wednesday.
A number of residents stopped to sign petitions calling for more help and awareness for out local shops.
Many of the shoppers I spoke to were concerned about the lack of resources being put into the area by the Council and wanted to see local shops remain. Many also wished to see more variety of shops in the area especially on the Hawthorn Road.
Lets hope shoppers become more aware of the need to support local shops.

ALDRIDGE ROAD DAY CENTRE NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

I paid a visit to the Aldridge Road Day Centre yesterday (this is a day centre for those with learning disabilities). It was good to see those using the centre looked happy and contended and that preparation for Christmas, are well underway*.
However I was surprised how the building has deteriorated since my last visit earlier this year.
Sadly window frames are becoming rotten, the ceiling in one of the rooms has been damaged by squirrels and not repaired. The whole place needs redecorating.
The staff although working tirelessly for their charges appear to be becoming demoralised by what is happening to the centre. No one seems sure what is to happen to them in the future.
I will be passing on my comments to the Social Service team responsible and hope the Council start taking more notice of the Centre and make their policies more user and staff friendly.

*
If you would like to help support the Aldridge Road Day Centre, you may wish to visit their Christmas fayre on 28th November(10am till 7pm). There will be a Father Christmas grotto, all sorts of refreshments and you can by pictures frames made by the Centres users. There are also hand made garden seats and Tables for sale, along with handmade Christmas cards and other gifts.
For more details ring 356 5161

The Aldridge Road Day Centre is located at 127 Aldridge Road Perry Barr.

LEST WE FORGET 11am TODAY

I hope every one remembers to honour the 2 minutes silence today at 11am, to remember those who have died for their country. If you do forget, please give those who have died and their families, some thought during the day.

SAVE OUR SHOPS CAMPAIGN

Many residents have complained that local shops are disappearing and local traders need supporting.
So far I agree, but what is really needed is every one to get behind our local shops and use them.
Shopping areas like the Hawthorn Road and the Kingstanding Circle are suffering mainly as a result of residents going to the near by Tesco and ASDA super stores.
Residents who are concerned about being able to use stores on their door steps, need to think a little more, about how they can support local shops.
Those with mobility problems for example often struggle to get to the big supermarkets and need their local shops. We all need our local shops from time to time, so lets try and use them a bit more often.
USE THEM OR LOOSE THEM. Like the Post Offices they need support all year around and not just before they give up and have to close. Think carefully about what you can buy from your local shops, instead of from the big supermarkets. Already many of our local shopping areas are being taken over by Charity shops and Take aways. There is nothing wrong with these sorts of shops in moderation, but we need to keep other types of retailers as well.
I am now leading a campaign to try and get shoppers to think local and to try and get the Council (and the Government) to be more sympathetic to small shopping areas, especially in Oscott.
Please think about buying from local shops if you can. I hope our local news papers will take up the challenge as well. Shopping locally is also environmentally friendly as it can save on car journeys' which add s to air pollution

OSCOTT RESIDENTS GROUPS INFO

I attended the Oscott Residents Association, the Oscott Disability Group and the Oscott Elderly Residents groups AGM's today.

It is good to see so many residents taking a genuine interest in their community. I would like to wish all those elected onto the various group's committees well in their endeavours.

If you want to know more about any of these groups ring 356 6894. Or pop into one of their joint sessions which take place every Saturday morning 10.30am at the 610 Community Centre. A free cup of tea, a biscuit and a chance to have a chat are on offer.

THE SAINT MARKS DAY CENTRE IS WORTH EVERY ONES SUPPORT

THE TRANSPORTING OF THOSE USING THE ST MARKS DAY CENTRE IS VERY IMPORTANT, WHICH IS WHY THE OSCOTT WARD HELPED PAY FOR THE MINI BUS SEEN HERE.

I managed to go along to see the users of the Saint Marks day Centre this week. At this Centre many of our older residents, are ensured a good meal and good company for a couple of hours, for a few day a week. The staff at the day centre work wonders to keep their charges well looked after while they are at the Centre and often help with any little problems they may have at home.
I was sad to learn however that vital funding, which the Council has promised the day centre has been delayed. I will be perusing the Council authorities, as this money is badly needed. There is also a doubt as to how of payments may be made in years to come. I hope the Council sort out this situation as soon as possible.

MORE TASKS FOR THE POLICE

Councillor Barbara Dring and myself with some of the KSNPTG going in to be briefed.

This week I popped into the Kingstanding police Station to see what the Neighbourhood Tasking Group were doing. This is a group of local residents Representatives who work with the Police, the Council, Councillors and other authorities, to look into crime and ways of dealing with it locally.
It is a good opportunity for those who attend, to get to know the crime issues in the area and for those like me, who have crime issues given to them by concerned residents, to air these concerns.
Amongst the the topics on this weeks agenda were. The parking near the St Mathews Church, issues concerning Quad bikes in the area, the Burford Road Playing Field, Antisocial behavior occurring in locations such as Anstey Road and Cooksey Lane.
On the crime front it was good to see that figures continue to show a downward trend for most types of crimes in the Oscott area.

If you have any concerns about crime in the Oscott area please give me a ring 360 6486

HAWTHORN ROAD TRADERS ASSOCIATION 1OTH ANNIVERSARY

Chairman Geoff Heaps and myself with just some of the members of the Hawthorn Traders Association. Now operating from our new venue the Elim Church.





The Hawthorn Road Traders Association will have been in existence 10 years in December.
During that time they have campaigned on behalf of local traders and residents alike. There were instrumental in the Hawthorn Road improvement program a few years ago and have managed for some years now to get Christmas light put up over the festive period.
I have been delighted, to have been closely associated with the Hawthorn Traders Association since they were set up 10 years ago and I wish them the very best of luck for the future.

HAWTHORN ROAD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON DUE SOON

Due to the hard work of Jeanette Hart, the Hawthorn Road Christmas lights are expected to be switched on Wednesday November 12th.
Jeanette who is a member of the Hawthorn Road Traders Association and is a committee member of the Warren Road Conservative Club, has worked tirelessly once again to find the funds to have these light go on.
Although both the Oscott Ward and the Kingstanding Ward Committees have chipped in with donations from their Community Chest budgets, Jeanette has still had to find a fair bit extra to pay for these lights. Jeanette has held raffles, selling tickets on Hawthorn Road and has tried to persuade local shop keepers, to stump up small donations towards these lights. I know Jeanette has been disappointed at the poor repose of some of the shop keepers, but I hope that wont put her off in the future.
Once again well done Jeanette and those who have helped her.
Lets hope one day the Council will pay for these lights and she wont have to work so hard to cheer up shoppers and local residents over the Christmas period.

LOOKING OUT FOR THOSE IN NEED

One of the duties we Councillors are expected to carry out, is that of a advocate for those in our Council run care establishments. Sadly this duty is not always carried out out as expected however.

I therefore agreed, when asked by the Perry Barr Constituency Chairman, to act as a champion for such visits, on behalf of the Constituency. I will now do my best to ensure all such establishments in the Perry Barr Constituency get a least one visit from myself over the next 6 months and to let the relevant authorities know of my findings.
I also hope, other Councillors who have not yet done so, also make these visits, as many of those in our care establishments, are the most vulnerable in our society.

CONFUSION OVER CONCRETE ROADS IN OSCOTT

JUST ONE OF A NUMBER OF CONCRETE ROADS IN OSCOTT LEFT NEGLECTED BY THE CURRENT COUNCIL ADMINISTRATION.

After being congratulated today in the Council chamber for his coming to Oscott and arranging for the concrete Road in Oscott to be sorted out, by one of his colleagues!, the Councils Cabinet member for Street Services, in a show of admiral frankness, admitted that concrete Roads are a problem and he did not know how they would be sorted out.

I think this may show, he understands that because no money has been put to one side by the council for their proper maintenance, residents who have to put up with the well known problems which concrete roads cause, will have to wait until the expected Government funds arrive to bail them out.
Councillor Dring and I will continue to press the Street Services department to at least come up with a plan of action ready for their bail out.

CYCLING ADVISORY GROUP

I have now been asked to represent the Council as a member of the Cycling Advisory Group and with much trepidation, given my current work load I have agreed to give it a go.
For those who do not know, the aims of this group is to discuss all aspects of cycling in Birmingham with the Council and other agencies.
Many Oscott residents will know of my campaigns on behalf of local cyclists, to get more cycle racks in the area (like those in Kettlehouse road and near the Kingstanding Circle) and now hopefully with this new post, I can help ensure the views of local residents when it comes to cycling, are promoted.
When it comes to cycling there are 2 views which seem to be dominate. Those who think cycling is the way forward to ease Traffic congestion and for a healthier life style and those who just think cyclist are a nuisance who should not be on the road. Well you can guess which group I belong to!
If you have any views concerning Cycling please give me a ring 360 6486

ANOTHER REJECTION FOR ROAD SAFETY MEASURES IN OSCOTT

Well for once I can not claim the Transportation department are dithering when it comes to introducing urgently needed road safety measures in Oscott.
When asked yet again for the introduction of road safety measures on the Aldridge road and particularly for the introduction of a set of traffic lights at the Greenholm Road /Thornbridge Road, they have said NO.

I have now made several such requests for traffic lights at this junction given the number of accidents there and that children cross at this point, to come and go to the near by Greenholm Road school. Local community groups have been fully behind me on this issue and are also bitterly disappointed at the lack of interest shown by the Transportation department.

Why when we know the Council are paying millions for consultants, to consult on who knows what, can they not spend just a small amount of that on safeguarding this junction?

I really do hope I am wrong and there will not be a serious accident at this junction, but if there is the blame will have to be placed with the Transportation department. It is becoming more and more apparent, when it comes to road safety, Oscott is being forgotten by this Councils Transportation department.

GET THE JAB !

I have just spoken to one of my elderly constituents who is really suffering with the shakes and a high fever. He is really regretting missing out on getting the Flu Jab earlier this year.
After speaking to this resident I would strongly recommend anyone over 65 or who has a chronic illness to speak to their G.P's Surgery about getting the Jab.
I think the Flu Jab should be open to all on demand and it is about time our PCT's considered offering this.

GET YOUR SELF MOTIVATED

‘’Get Yourself Motivated’’
(formally known as ‘’ Gym for Free’’)

I am pleased to be able to inform you that the plans for the roll out of ‘Get Yourself Motivated’ to Perry Barr Constituency including OSCOTT are now in place.
This is a good opportunity for some of our older teenagers in particular, to keep them selves occupied during the winter months.

The scheme will now operate across the whole of the Heart of Birmingham Teaching Primary Care Trust area.

For the purposes of this scheme this includes ALL four wards in Perry Barr Constituency: Handsworth Wood, Lozells and East Handsworth, Oscott and Perry Barr Wards.

THESE ARE SOME OF THE DETAILS

1) Open to all residents in the HOB ( and Oscott) area over 16.

2) This is not means tested, and applies to everyone.

3) Free use of all swimming, gym facilities and fitness classes across the city (i.e. not necessarily in the HOB area.)

4) Residents can register at any local Sports and Leisure facility within HOB area. They will need photo ID (i.e. Drivers Licence or passport) plus and 2 separate forms of ID showing full postal address.

5) All the local sites have the details of the scheme available and can answer questions from residents but telephone enquiries are being directed to Alexander Stadium (on 464 0208) as they have the greatest capacity to take calls.

6) To use the gym facilities residents will have to undertake an induction session (as is standard now.)

7) They do not need to have a gym induction session to make use of the free swimming or free fitness classes.

8) ‘’Get Yourself Motivated’’ scheme members will still have to pay for use of some facilities e.g.: Hire of courts for badminton and five-a-side football etc, club use of facilities, sauna and steam room, private hire.

9) The existing Direct Debit scheme will still be operational and if residents wish to stay on this to get the additional benefits they can do so (e.g. sauna / steam room)

10) The Leisure Flex System can now enrol people on to this scheme, which means that if someone does register they can join immediately. Word of mouth is spreading fast and we do not want to discourage anyone from joining the scheme.

11) To remain on the scheme, customers must use their card at least four times a month.

12) The scheme is funded by HOBt PCT and an amount equivalent to the Passport to Leisure rate (currently £22.50 per month) will be credited to the Constituency for each resident on the scheme every month.

13) Promotional material is being funded by HOBtPCT in addition to this regular revenue income.

14) It is likely that this scheme will be taken up citywide in the very near future but at this stage it is just available to HOBtPCT residents.

SO THERE YOU ARE MAKE THE MOST OF THIS INITIATIVE

For further details ring the Oscott Ward Support Officer on 464 1869 or at any of our Oscott Leisure Centres.

MORE DISABLED PARKING BAYS ARE NEEDED.

I am currently working closely with the Chair of the Oscott Disabilities Group, George Hough and other members, on the issue regarding the lack of Disabled Parking Bays in the Oscott area, and the need for more disabled friendly drop curbs.
We have already received agreement from the Transportation department, about having a disabled parking bay, placed in Kettlehouse Road near the HSB bank and have made a number of other suggestions. There clearly needs to be a balance between the needs of disabled motorists and the need for parking generally. I am now hold ongoing discus ions with the Transportation department and disabled residents regarding this matter.
There are also a number of disabled friendly drop curbs being put in place around the ward over the next 12 months.

If you have any thoughts on issue of Disabled Parking bays please give me a ring on 360 6486

PERRY BARR SPEEDWAY UPDATE

At this weeks Planning Committee it was agreed to allow replacement Sunday races in the event of Good Friday and or Bank Holiday races being rained off.
It was also agreed to allow the holding of a press and practise day on a Wednesday in March 2009 between 12.00 and 15.00.
Finally it was agreed that practis laps and races can operate between 10.00 and 22.00.
These changes will it is hoped help promote the running of the speed way in Perry Barr.
At the meeting the speed ways represEntatives agreed to meet with concerned residents and I asked that Councillor Ray Hassall's previous request for conifers to be planted around the site to help reduce noise levels and pollution, be considered by the speedway club.

OSCOTT'S POPULAR ENVIRONMENTAL WARDEN TO MOVE ON

The very popular and hard working Oscott Environmental Warden Debora Parsons, has (sadly for Oscott) decided to move on to new challenges elsewhere in the Perry Barr Constituency.
While I am, like I would image, hundreds of local residents disappointed to see Debora go, I can understand that some times you need a new challenge, to test your self and I wish Debora all the very best in her endeavor.
She is in my mind the best Environmental warden in the City and I have been amazed the Tories have not tried to have her moved to where they control wards in the city. Mind you this may be because they are not great believers in using environmental wardens effectively? Hence their plans to get rid of them from individual wards.

All is not lost however, as Oscott does have a replacement Environmental Warden, Liam Tarry as a result of Councillor Barabara Dring and my own representaions, and I am sure as he becomes familiar with the Oscott Residents , Councillors and the area, he will do a good job for us.

SUCCESS FOR COUNCILLOR BARBARA DRING AND THE OSCOTT TEAM

After year of trying the Oscott Team with Councillor Barbara Dring at the forefront, have finally managed to get the authorities to tidy up and improve the house next door to the 610 Community Centre. The House and gardens are currently been renovated with a mind to handing it back as part of the lease agreement to the Birmingham Settlement. Not only will the look of the area improve as a result but more importantly the house will be put to good use.

ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN OSCOTT

This week I have spent a lot of time meeting with older residents in Oscott. For example I have attended the Kingstanding Pensioners Convention meeting which took place on Monday, I then met on Wednesday with the Chair of the Oscott Elderly Residents group* and some of her committee. I popped into to see the Befriending project at the Emanuel Centre on Thursday, which is ran by Age Concern and then today Friday I had a walk about at the Ashgrove Complex.

It is pleasing to that our older residents in Oscott are finding things to do and the money from the Oscott Community Chest is being well used to help them.
Councillor Barbara Dring and I are very keen to promote activities for our older residents and will do our best to find funding for them.
If you or some one you know would like to know more about activities for older residents in Oscott please ring any of the following.

Age Concern 358 o309
The Oscott Elderly Residents Group 356 6894 (messages)
The Oscott Ward Support Officer 464 1869
Councillor Keith Linnecor 360 6486

* The Oscott Elderly Residents Group meet every Saturday at the 610 Community Centre (10.30am) for a free cup of tea and a chat. There is also a game of Poole available for any one interested.

ARE THERE TOO MANY TAKE AWAYS IN OSCOTT?

It seems ever few weeks there is another proposal to change a shop in the Oscott Ward into a Take Away. Many people feel there are already too many? These Take Aways often cause Environmental and Transportation issues. With this in mind I am asking the Planning department to look into the matter.

I need to make it clear however that Councillor Dring and I are not opposed to all Take Away applications, but we do feel all such applications need to be carefully considered and the viability of the shopping area , a Take Away is proposed for is considered.

What do you think? why not Post your thoughts on this blog or give me a ring 360 6486.

RAT CONTROL PILOT SCHEME FOR THE PERRY BARR CONSTITUENCY

Between the 3rd November 2008 and the 31st March 2009, the Pest Control Section are planning to trial a new and innovative approach to rodent control in the Perry Barr and Hall Green constituencies. Both of the constituencies have been chosen due to there geographical location within Birmingham and level of reported pest control problems.

The trial, in brief will involve the following:

RAT IN HOUSE (RATH)
When rodent problems are reported to the section they are currently categorised as being a problem located in a residents house or garden and each are currently dealt with in a different timescale. Due to the priority nature of problems identified inside a property there will be no change to the current provision for dealing with these cases and they will be responded to within 24 working hours, with the majority of all calls received before 13:00 being dealt with the same day.

RAT IN GARDEN (RATG)
The most noticeable change will involve the less urgent but more important RATG problems which if dealt with more proactively and more efficiently will prevent the more serious RATH occurring, providing residents take advice regarding proofing, bird feeding and rubbish removal. The change in this service will be based around a two week service delivery cycle:

• Week 1: This will involve officers approaching every property in a predetermined area to offer free advice, surveys and treatments for rats, as required. The areas will be chosen using historical pest control information and local knowledge of the constituencies, which will enable those areas which have a high incidence of infestations to be targeted. In addition, we will be working with the Environmental Wardens, other City Council Officers / Departments and external organisations to resolve some of the causes and sources of rodent infestations so that a more long term solution to the problem can be achieved. During this week all requests to deal with RATG from residents will be recorded and actioned during Week 2.

• Week 2: During the second week all of the requests from residents to deal with RATG received during the first and second week will be actioned, and on contacting the section in either week the resident will be offered a suitable morning or afternoon appointment during the second week. This is a major improvement to the current service which is not able to provide an appointment and instead on contacting the department residents are told that an officer will contact them in the next 5 working days.


It is hoped that by combining a proactive and reactive approach to pest control the constituency and its residents will start to experience a noticeable decline in rodent populations, which in turn will have a positive affect on residents health and their environment.

I welcome this Pilot scheme and the residents in Oscott can be assured both Councillor Barbara Dring and I will be doing our best to ensure the Oscott Ward gets its fair share of this initiative, as we both have had a large number of reporting of rats over the last six months or so.
The problem of Rat infestation is something which needs to be dealt with and dealt with urgently. Other rat issues which need to be addressed are central reservations where there are bushes and where they are near to take aways. Also the amount of houses left empty with rubbish in their gardens.

TAKING DANGEROUS PARKING TO TASK

When ever I get the chance I like to try and attend the Police Neighbourhood Tasking meetings. which take place at the Kingstanding Police Station. These are an opportunity for resident Groups,. Council officers and the Police to get together to flag up local issues relating to crime and anti social behavior.
At today's meeting amongst other things, I made sure that dangerous and inconsiderate parking was high on the agenda.
The Police have now agreed to look again into a number of my requests to look at parking near local schools, the parking near the end of Birdbrook Road (Aldridge Road end) and the general problem with vehicles which park right on the junction of roads.
I have asked the Police to be more pro active on these issues and they have agreed and also to look again at these issues. It has now been put on future agendas for on going updates.

STILL MAJOR PROBLEMS AT THE BIRDBROOK ROAD/ BURNHAM ROAD/ ALDRIDGE ROAD JUNCTION

The Junctions of Birdbrook Road, Burnham Road and Aldridge Road are still causing many residents and motorists major concerns. There is often parking right on these corners and on both sides of the near by island.
There are also on occasions, problems for the near by Saint Mathews church when they wish to hold a funerel service.
In the past there have been a number of public meetings and various issues have been raised by residents and shop keepers alike. The Oscott Central Neighbourhood Forum have also been very active, in trying to get action taken to deal with this problem.

While I can accept delays have occurred in dealing with the problem, given the SuttonColdfield College (whose students cause most of the problems) have had problems reallocating to their new site further down the Aldridge Road. (the new building is now scheduled for 2010) I do feel more needs to be done while this move is being awaited.

I am constantly calling upon the Transportation department to taken action and for the Police to get tough with those who park right on these junctions. The Police have now informed me that is what they intend to do and more fines can be expected by those who park inconsiderately to close to these junctions.

ISLAND NEEDS A CLEAN UP

A number of residents have now been in touch with me about the state of the island at the top of Warren Road. (the Hawthorn Road junction. )
It is a great shame that the Current Councils Leisure Services department have let this small island become weed infested and unkempt. I remember working closing some years ago with the Hawthorn Trader Association to get this island re vamped and how good it looked when it was.
Letting it get into its current state is just a sign of the lack of respect the Current Council has for the appearance of this area. I will keep om trying to get them to take action and clean up not only this island but other sadly neglected areas in Oscott.