PDSA SHOP HAWTHORN ROAD IS ONE OF THE BEST

I was pleased to hear the PDSA Charity Shop on Hawthorn Road has been named one of the best in the country by the PDSA,
The PDSA is a very worthy cause doing so much to ease the suffering of animals,
The volunteers who work in the PDSA shop on the Hawthorn Road with their friendly helpful service certainly do their bit to help raise funds for the PDSA and I know from my own experience they have a number of real bargains to sell. Well done to all concerned.

KING STANDING ROAD TRAFFIC LIGHTS NEED SORTING OUT

There are still problems with the Hawthorn Road, Dyas Road, Kingstanding Road traffic lights. despite having them adjusted several times the phasing still does not seem right leaving build ups of traffic on Dyas Road in particular.
I have once again called on traffic engineers to look into this problem and also complaints about the pedestrion crossing elements of these signals.

WORK DONE ON OUR ROADS AND PAVEMENTS NEEDS TO BE CARRIED OUT QUICKLY

Kingstanding Road and others in the Oscott area are still having their street lamps replaced which is good news.
The not so good news is the time it is taking to replace the lamps once the work has begun, barriers are all over the pavements sourounding holes and newly errected street lamps which have not been finished.
While I welcome these street lamp upgrades I am calling on Amey the contractor in charge of doing the work to get the work done and the road tided up aftwards as soon as possible.

This also applies to where work is being carried out to improve pavements like in Delhurst Road hopefully with better weather in the summer the work will be carried out more quickly.

VISIT TO GOODWAY NURSERY

I had the pleasure last week of carrying out a Governors visit to the Goodway Nursery recently.
As usual I found the children happy and well behaved, doing a number of interesting things.
 The staff were as ever a pleasure to meet and very helpful. In Beth O,Neil they have an excellent leader and Head.
It was also good to see so much time devoted to playing out side and the use of bikes like that in the picture. It is never to early for children to learn to ride a bike.
I will be trying to arrange for the Lord Mayor of Birmingham to pay a visit later in the year.

THE COUNCILS ON LINE WHEELIE BIN DEBATE

Anyone with questions about Birmingham City Council’s plan to modernise refuse collections is being invited to take part in a webchat on May 8.


Cllr James McKay, Cabinet Member for a Green, Safe and Smart City, will be on hand between 6pm and 7pm to field enquiries on the council’s plan to roll out wheelie bins across the city.



 If you are unable to get online for the chat, you can submit questions in advance by email to press.office@birmingham.gov.uk


Dont forget I have been passing on residents comments about Wheelie bins what ever they may have been since August but if you can why not get involved in the Councils Webbchat on May the 8th.

EXTRA LITTER BINS FOR BEECHES ROAD THANKS TO THE JAMES WAT CAMPUS

The Metropolitan College James Watt Campus have as they agreed to when I attended a meeting with them earlier this year, located 2 extra litter bins on their beeches road boundary including on near the bus stop on that road.
beeches Road has long had problems with litter and this should go some way to help ease the problem. The college also empty these bins

76 BUS ROUTE TO BE WITH DRAWN

As you may be aware it has been announced that the current 76 bus service is being removed by the private operator for commercial reasons during the summer.
However I have made sure this is not the end of the matter and I am working closely with Centro to try and sure there is at least a partial cover for this route.
In the mean time as I regularly do I would call on those who want buses to use this route to use it or lose it.

BIG CAT SIGHTING AT KINGSTANDING CIRCLE SAT 27TH

I was called to a sighting of a mystery big cat at the Kingstanding Circle today 12 noon.
On approaching the shopping area I saw a huge cat however it was blue and turned out to be a friendly volunteer charity worker collecting with a friend,  for the Cats Protection charity
Amongst other things they help people to adopt cats and kittens and look after the welfare of cats.

If you would like to support this charity and would like more information please ring 0845 2601 503

COUNCILLOR BARBARA DRING SELECTED AGAIN TO FIGHT FOR THE OSCOTT SEAT IN 2014

Councillor Barbara Dring has been selected by the Oscott Labour party for fight again at the Birmingham Local Elections which take place in May 2014.
Barbara,s track record stands for its self in the Oscott area where her battling for local residents is well known
In these tough times when government cut backs are so hard to deal with and the Council is having to manage with less and less funding, residents need a Councillor like Barbara who will fight for them despite the odds.
Barbara is also the Chair of the Licensing/public health committee.
I look forward to working with Barbara with the aim of seeing her re elected by by the residents of Oscott in 2014.

IT IS STILL NOT TO LATE TO FILL IN A WHEELIE BIN CONSULTATION FORM

If you have not yet filled in and sent off a Wheelie bin consultation form it is not to late.
Forms can still be obtained from the Perry Common and Kingstanding Libraries and there is until 31st May send them in. (It is a free post service)

Some residents may be concerned about the "about you" section if you do not wish to complete that section simply leave it blank.

A number of of residents have been contacting me on the subject since I first started passing on residents concerns and views about the subject in August last year and if you would like me to pass on your views please Email me on Keith.Linnecor@birmingham.gov.uk or leave me a message on 303 2039.

I will ensure your views are passed to those considering the matter.

IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ALDRIDGE RECREATION GROUND

A a recent site meeting between Oscott Councillors and Leisure Service chiefs on the Aldridge Road Recreation Ground, it was decided to try and improve security around the site and upgrade the main path.
Over a number of years parameter fencing has been upgraded section by section with palisade style fencing. During this financial year the last stretch needed (on Oscott School Lane) will be done. Barriers will also be put in place on the entrances to the recreation ground which will help prevent Motor bikes being used on the field. Finally as phase 2 of the work the main path between Randwick Grove and Shady lane will be upgraded having trios taken out and a better surface laid to help disabled users.

ANOTHER BURFORD ROAD PLAYING FIELD UPDATE

As many residents may be aware early last year wild promises were made about improving the Burford Road Playing Field fencing.
To try and sort out fact from fiction with the help of my ward councillor Colleagues I held a  site meeting with residents and Council officers only to find out that there was no funding for any such work.

Since that time my colleagues and I have battled with Council officials to find funding for new fencing for the site.
I am pleased to announce at a site meting between Councillor Barbara Dring , Council Officers and my self, last week, it was agreed some of the work the work will now be done during this financial  year.
Fencing on parts of the Melverly Grove and Burford Road Boundary will be under taken and any part of the fencing which can not be completed will be added to a priority list for when further funding becomes available in years to come. The gap in the Burford Road fence will be left in order that members of the public can still use the site
It is now expected that large section of the boundary fencing will be upgraded.

If you would like more details please contact me.

BATTLING AGAINS A TIDE OF POT HOLES

I am still having to report a large number of Pot holes and the poor state of a lot of the carriage ways in Oscott.
The winter period this year has certainly done some real damage. Amey the private company who were given the long term contract to repair our roads by the previous Council Administration are battling to get many roads repaired but they need to do much many and more quickly.
If you have any concerns about pot holes in Oscott please let me know and I will ensure Amey are alerted to them.

Ring 303 2039 Messages or email Keith.Linnecor@birmingham.gov

AUBREY LONGE'S FUNERAL SERVICE WAS HELD TODAY.

To Aubrey Longe was laid to rest today when
Aubrey's family and hundreds of friends and acquaintances including Khalid Mahmood MP gathered for his funeral at Saint MMathews Church.
I had the honour of being asked to say a few words about Aubrey and how his life had made a difference to so many. It was difficult to find the appropriate words as Aubrey was such a kind ,helpful and caring man. may he R.I.P

AMBLECOTE AVENUE RIGHT OF WAY STEPS IN NEED OF REPAIR

I have had to report broken and missing slabs in the right of way Amblecote Avenue to Shady Lane. These ccould cause a nasty accident if not repaired asap.
Amey need to start getting these sorts of steps and pavements monitored better and take action to make them safe.

PERRY BEECHES SCHOOL THE ACADEMY HOLDS POLICE TASKING GROUP MEETING

It is good to see that Perry Beeches (academy School) still has youngsters interested in a youth Police Neighbourhood Tasking Group meeting. The youngsters gave their views to the local Police team and myself and these will be passed on to the regular monthly Neigbourhood Police Tasking meeting.
We need to remember children's concerns about crime and anti social behaviour are just as important as those of adults and in some ways mirror them.
The youngsters expressed concerns about anticial behavior on buses and in parks. They are als0 concerned that drugs and smoking need to be prevented.
The Police who were present were able to give some tips about keeping away from anti socail behavior.

THE DEBATE ABOUT WHEELIE BINS STILL GOES ON.

I am still being asked questions about Wheelie bins.
 Sadly the finale answers to many questions will still have to wait for a short time until the consultation period is finished however.

Like everyone else at the moment I can only make speculative replies to may of the questions I receive.



I have asked a number of questions and concerns regarding the subject and a number of these questions are still being considered as part of the consultation process.

That said  if you want more information please look at my blog posted on the 13th of February which includes the answers to some of the questions still being put about the introduction of wheelie bins.
These were made available by the Council.

It is still not to late and if you would like me to pass on your questions or comments about the introduction of Wheelie bins please leave me a message on 303 2039 or email me Keith.Linnecor@yahoo.com

For more about my posts on this subject please use the search function.

DONT GIVE IN TO THE TREE VANDALS

Amey the Private Company given the job of maintaining our streets for the next 20 plus years by the last Council administration have been catching up with their tree replacement program recently.
As you will have seen many new trees have been planted in the Oscott ward over the last few months.
These were trees were replacements for the many that have either died or been removed for other reasons.
Sadly a few mindless vandals have been damaging some of these new trees. There would have been even more damaged but some residents have managed to stop some of the vandals.
I am calling on the Police to give some attention to this problem when out on patrol and i have also called on Amey as it is in their contract to replace any damaged trees.

We must not give in to vandals and try and keep our area a decent place to live. If you see any trees being damaged  please report it.

BIRMINGHAMS CYCLING AND WALKING MAP

For those interested there has been a Cycling and walking map in circulation since August 2012.
To obtain a copy or more details ring 303 1873


Also for anyone interested  the Police are  holding a Cycle surgery on 18/04/13 at Bhm New Street from 3-6pm.There will be free security marking and cheap locks!

AUBREY LONGE',S FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

Aubrey Longe's funeral service will take place on Thursday 18th April at Saint Mathew's Church Aldridge Road.The service will start at 11am

I am sure many of those who remember Aubrey with such fondness and respect will do their best to be there and those who can not will spend time remembering Aubrey who was such a nice man.

Aubrey's family have requested no flowers be sent but those wishing to may donate to the Birmingham Children's hospital.

I RARLEY USE FACE BOOK

For information to those who may try to contact me via Face Book sorry I very rarely if ever use it.
You would do better if you wish to contact me either email me, ring me, write to me, or possibly use Twitter.

HOW TO LET ME KNOW YOUR VIEWS OR CONCERNS

Although I can not promise to solve all the concerns I hear about I am always willing to try to do what I can to help residents who contact me.

I am also always interested to hear about the views of local Oscott residents and while I may not always agree with some residents views I do note them all and if requested I am happy to pass them on as appropriate.

If you have a problem and would like me to try and help you with or if you would just like to let me know what you think about an issue please contact me by

Tel 303 2039 Message service

Email Keith.Linnecor@yahoo.co.uk

Or write to me c/o The Birmingham City Council, Birmingham. B1 1BR

(Don't forget to let me have your contact details)

CARRIAGE WAYS IN OSCOTT ARE BECOMING POT HOLE RIDDEN AGAIN

While I can accept we have had a lot of ice and snow recently I do feel the Contractor Amey who the last Council administration gave the contract to repair our roads to, needs to do more to repair our roads.

During the first year or so of their contract they got off to a cracking pace but now seem to have slowed down their pace leaving many roads pot hole filled or with crumbling carriage ways.

Boswell Road is an example that comes to mind. It is now full of pot holes and the surfacing in breaking up badly.

Amey need to get their act together in my opinion and get many of our roads in Oscott inspected and repaired. I will be doing what I can to get them to take action.

If you are aware of any bad pot holes or crumbling carriage ways in the Oscott area either leave me a message on 303 2039 or email me on Keith.Linnecor@ birmingham.gov.uk

SWITCHING OFF SPEED CAMERA'S IN OSCOTT AND ELSWHERE IS A MAJOR MISTAKE

Police in the West Midlands have this week switched off the last of its 304 fixed speed cameras - because they are too expensive to run.
This is partly due to government cuts to policing and the £489,000 cost of converting old-fashioned film mechanisms to digital technology.
The last 73 cameras are being turned off pending a strategic review of how to deal with speeding in one of the UK's most populated areas.
The West Midlands police pay to run the sites, while local councils stump up for maintenance. The conversion cost would be 600k
The Police however claim speeding motorist may still be court by extra mobile camera patrols which are being introduced.
Frankly like many other residents who have campaigned to have speed Cameras installed in Oscott Locations like the Queslett Road and College Road over the years, I am far from convinced.
I am calling on those who have made this decision to review it and have asked our Perry Barr MP to put pressure on the government to find the funding and to look again at the matter.

MORE ITA DUTIES

I had more ITA duties yesterday on another chilly day.
Along with colleagues and some officers I was looking at issues at Birmingham Airport,New Street railway station, Coventry railway station the Coventry bus station and also bus interchanges in Solihull, Birminghams , Colemore Road and High Street (997 terminus and so on)
Centro (ITA) will only get things better if they investigate problems and listen to Public Transport users.

CONGRATULATIONS TRISTAN AND MEL

Mel and Tristan Chatfield became the proud parents of Bethony Polly Chatfield in the early hours of this morning.
 Mother and daughter are doing well.
Congratulations and best wishes.

DOG CONTROL ORDERS FOR BIRMINGHAM

 Birmingham Councils  bid for funding for more dog controls has been approved and and a committee led by Councillor Barbara Dring secured the £50, 000 for LPPC to bring in Dog control orders for Birmingham.

Key benefits will be additional means for controlling the following matters:

·                     Fouling of land by dogs and the requirement for dog faeces to be removed.
·                     The keeping of dogs on leads.
·                     Dogs to be put on a lead when directed to do so.
·                     The exclusion of dogs from specified land.
·                     The number of dogs which a person may take onto land.

This is good news and something I have been pushing for in Oscott for a number of years. I hope these measures will be put in place sooner rather than later.
I am sure no dog owner who cares about their dog will have any issues with the bringing in of dog contol orders..

EASTER EGG HUNT CONFUSION

There appears to have been some confusion regarding a Easter Egg Hunt even which took place on Easter Saturday.
Sadly the Friends of the Quslett Nature Reserve who's name I understand was added to the list of organisers where not informed about it, like my self, until a few day before It took place and were also told it would be cancelled later still.!
The event which was organised by the Birmingham Park Rangers Service did take place in the end but some residents and their children may have missed out due to confused messages being given.
I hope those who did take part enjoyed the event and I understand a Ranger did attend to try and organise it.
The FONR have requested any events using their name in the future must be reported to the group well before an event takes place.

THE 610 COMMUNITY CENTRE IS NOT TO CLOSE

Rumours that the 610 Community Centre is to close are ill founded. At the Perry Barr District Committee which was held on the 28^th March following questions from Oscott Councillors a senior officer from the Youth Service informed the meeting due to the complexities’ of the lease on the 610 Community Centre it will not be closing.
 As you may be aware your 3 Oscott Councillors Led by Councillor Barbara Dring have been battling to ensure the 610 Community Centre would not close.

This news will be a great relief to many youngsters, elderly residents as well as a number of community organisations which use this centre. This Centre is badly needed by the local community and the Oscott Councillors will continue to do what we can to keep it.

PERRY BARR DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETS THIS AFTERNOON 28TH MARCH

There will be a Perry Barr District Committee meeting today at 3pm. The venue will be the Council House Birmingham.
At these meeting Councillors representing the 4 Wards in the Perry Barr Constituency, Oscott, Perry Barr. Lozells/East Handsworth and Handsworth Wood meet together with officers from the Councils District office and various other departments.

At these meetings, which are open to the public, we hear reports from officers about the  Perry Barr District or City wide issues.
 We learn how little funding is available to do anything at a local level, about the effects of government cuts to local government and about other issues of local concern.
These meetings are now "live streamed" and can be watched on the Internet by those wishing to do so.

HAWTHORN TRADERS MEETING UPDATE.

I attended the Hawthorn Traders Association meeting today.
Many of the items discussed are similar in nature to what many residents groups speak about at their meetings.
There is a lot of concerns about speeding on the hawthorn Road and speed indicator signs are being called for. It is hopped the Community Speed Watch Team may look at one of their operations their.
The Traders and Elim Church are trying to have the land at the corner of Warren Road used for parking and I am trying to help them with this initiative.
The Shop Watch scheme where Traders notify each other and the Police regarding suspect customers/ shop lifters and so on seems to be working well in some parts of Hawthorn Road.
There was even a discussion regarding wheelie bins.

OSCOTT POLICE NEIGHBOURHOOD TASKING MEETING MARCH

I will attending a meeting of the Oscott Police Team Neighbourhood Tasking Group today.
At these meeting Local Councillors resident Group leaders, various other organisations and Council departments meet to discuss issues of concern in the area with the Police.
We also see and hear about the latest crime statistics for the area.
Issues I intend to raise will be
Speeding/ Road safety issues
Excessive noise being made by some mobile scrap dealers,
 Dog fouling
Parking issues
Anti social behaviour in the vicinity of the King standing Circle
and a number of other issues.

R.I.P PEACE AUBREY LONGE

It was with great sadness that  I learnt of the sudden passing of Aubrey Longe a dear friend and a long time Oscott Community leader.
Only yesterday Aubrey Longe attended the Your Public Transport Matters conference at Centro House in his role as a Bus Passenger Champion.
Aubrey was well known for his church work at Saint Mathews and in his role a Chairman of the Oscott Central Neighbourhood Forum. He was a sincere caring person who wanted to help his local community without counting the cost.
My sincerest sympathy go out to his wife and family.

PUTTING PASSENGER FIRST CONFERENCE GOES WELL

 Centro's first ever Putting Passenger first Conference was very well attended today by Porter Engagement Group members and Bus Champions.
Both groups had the opportunity not just to learn what transport operators and Centro have been doing but more importantly to give their views on Public transport.

If you use public transport and would like to help improve it then perhaps you could consider becoming a "Bus passenger champion"
Bus passenger champions are volunteers who fill out surveys concerning their bus journeys.
They help keep Centro and various bus companies informed about how their service is running.
issues like good or bad driving, clean or dirty buses, and the state of bus stops or shelters are recorded.
For urgent issues bus champions are given a dedicated phone No to Centro.
Volunteers meet occasionally to relate their experiences to each other and there will be the occasional visit to a bus garage or other  building connected with public Transport.

If you care about public Transport and want more details about becoming a bus champion please email me on Keith.Linnecor@yahoo.com

THE LATE LATE YOUTH CLUB FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

I have been asked to give a talk at the next meeting of the "Late Late youth club"  on Tuesday (26th)  morning at 10.30am. The venue will be the 610 Community Centre.
This club usually meet every Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30am  and is for elderly residents who are young a heart.
They hold quizzes,discussions ,games and invite occasional guest speakers.
To find out more contact 464 2268

BUS ROUTE WEATHER EFFECTED CHANGES

Birmingham OSCOTT area
Services in the Aldridge area are experiencing delays due to road conditions.

Amended routes:

28- terminating at Hawthorn Road

33- terminating at Kingstanding Circle not serving Warren Farm and Cooksey Lane

651- not serving Netherhall Estate

934A- following 934 route

952- not serving Tunberry Road and Boothes Farm Road, using Beeches Road instead

Check the internet for further up dates
23.03.2013

PATH BLOCKED IN QUESLETT NATURE RESERVE

Please take care if using the main path through the Queslett Nature Reserve. Some trees are blocking the main path near ther ASDA end due to the weight of snow on them.
You can get around these trees but care will be needed. As ever when there is snow on the ground take great care when using the nature reserve and especially the smaller paths.
I have asked the parks department to take a look at the situation but given the weather conditions across the city it may take some time.

ROADS ARE CLEAR IN SPITE OF HEAVY SNOW

The gritters have been doing a good job in Oscott during this spell of unseasonal heavy snow. I have checked and they have cover3ed their defined routes.
Some side roads are a problem but considering the amount of snow most roads are passable easily enough.
I would however still suggest that you stay in unless your journey is really needed.

I would expect rubbish collections next week may be delayed if the snow does not clear quickly. I will be asking the Salvage department to do what they can to keep to time.

ITA CENTRO DUTIES

Earlier this week I agreed to travel to Reggio as part of a team from Centro to learn more about High Speed trains, electric vehicles and how Reggio promote Cycling in their town.
This was an EU funded exchange scheme.
It was an amazingly tough schedule having to travel by plane, train,coach and foot at various times.
I have certainly learn't (this was the first time I have ever been asked to do anything like this !) that they expect their monies worth out of you and you have very little time to yourself as it is all seminars and lectures as well as looking at various locations.
I now have to help with a report of our findings which will be given to the ITA.

It is clear to me although Reggio is clearly ahead of the game in many issues on transportation and Birmingham can learn a few tricks from them, the West Midlands are not doing to badly in a number of ways in the field of transportation.

TREE VANDALS NEED TO BE STOPPED

There is something about a newly planted tree which seems to bring out a destructive streak in some individuals. Whether they see them as some form of test of their physical strength or whether they just can not find some thing interesting to do with their lives I just don't know.?
What ever these vandals are not helping to preserve Oscott greenery.
Trees are being planted mainly as part of a contract with Amey to replace trees which are damaged, deceased or have been removed to allow drop curbs to be put in place.
 There are very few "new trees"
Trees help reduce CO2 levels,reduce soil erosion,can give shade if we ever have a hot summer? and help baffle street noise as well as making a street look far more pleasant.
We must do what we can to deter vandalism in any form and those who deliberately destroy new trees are vandals.
 If you see anyone breaking a tree let the police know.
If you are aware of a tree which has been vandalised let me know and I will try and get it replaced by Amey as they are as part of their contract ablidged to replace damaged trees at no extra cost..

GRIT BINS NEED TO BE TOPPED UP.

I have been out checking grit bins following this unseasonal spell of snow. Many are ok at the moment but I have been asking the Highways department to ensure the level of grit in the bins is correct.
This snow may last a few days so use the grit sparingly and only on carriage ways.
If you have a problem with an empty grit bin you can contact me  by email. Keith.Linnecor@yahoo.com.

SCHOOL GOVERNORS ARE NEEDED

Birmingham City Council has organised a week of activities aimed at recruiting volunteers from the public and private sectors to serve on school governing bodies. 
There are an estimated 300,000 unpaid school governors that make up the largest volunteer workforce in the UK.  Anyone over 18 years old can apply to become a school governor.
 Governing bodies are responsible for working with the school to ensure that it delivers a good quality education. Together with the headteacher, who is responsible for day-to-day management, they set the school’s aims and policies.
Being a school Governor (I am lucky to be a governor of 2 excellent schools in Oscott the Great Barr Junior School and the Goodway Nursery school) is very rewarding but can be hard work. I just wish I could give more time.
If you can spare some time and have an interest in trying to improve a local school why not give it a try
Governor Recruitment Week starts on Monday 18 March 2013.  For further information about becoming a school governor visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/school-governors em

MOBILE SCRAP DEALERS NEED TO TONE IT DOWN A BIT

Mobile scrap dealer are becoming a real pest in the Oscott area.

Not only are they often loud with speakers blaring but there seems to be a large number of them going around.

In limit numbers if they were to tone down the noise the work they do collecting scrap metal would be welcome. However at the moment many Oscott residents think they are becoming pests.

I understand the Police have checked a number of these mobile scrap dealers and those without the correct paper work have been warned. 

But it is the noise which is really causing a problem and I have asked the Council authorities and the Police to look into the matter and would call on any mobile scrape dealer to  turn down the volume especially on a Sunday.

WHY NOT GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR LOCAL OSCOTT RESIDENT GROUPS

There are a number of resident groups in Oscott which would welcome your help and support.

For example.

The Oscott Residents Association
The Oscott Disability Group
The Oscott Elderly Resident Group*.

These groups meet up for an informal chat and a cup of tea most Saturday mornings at the 610 Community Centre Kingstanding Road at 10.30am.
They also hold other events during the year where guest speakers are invited to discuss issues of various sorts.

Fir example, there will be a OERG* coffee morning on 20th March (and every 3rd Wednesday in the month) at 11.15am. The venue is the 610 Community Centre Kingstanding Road.

They have a joint blog http://oscottresidents.blogspot.co.uk/
or for further information
Ring 675 2349

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL PDSA SHOP AND HELP SICK ANIMALS

The local Oscott PDSA Charity Shop sells a wide range of high quality and clean donated clothes available at very reasonable prices.
 There are all sorts of good clothing and a range kitchen equipment, books,CDs,DVDs, toys and much more on sale.
You can find a bargain and really do something to really help sick animals of all sorts.
The Shop is located at 228 Hawthorn Road and if you would like to know their opening hours or make a donation give them a ring on 0121 382 2556
From my visits there I have always found those working in the shop very friendly and helpful.

COMPOSTING CAN HELP REDUCE WASTE

At a time where there is rightly a lot of debate going on about cut backs and making people pay for green waste collection collections and so on the Birmingham City Council has teamed up with getcomposting.com to provide an exclusive offer of home compost bins and other great green products. Why not check out their prices!
Composting at home turns most kitchen and garden waste into a rich compost to keep your garden blooming year after year.
It is also a real and practical way to make a difference to helping our environment.

There is also a range of water butts should it ever stop raining.

ALDRIDGE ROAD RECREATION GROUND LITTER PICK SAT 16TH MARCH

 Reminder

If the rain holds off their will be a litter pick (being carried out by the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve) tomorrow Sat 16th March at the Aldridge Recreation ground 11am. meet at the Shady Lane entrance.
This type of event is designed for those with an active interest in cleaning up the environment locally and don't mind putting the time in. Volunteers are welcome.
Litter pickers and bags will be supplied Tel 07932831175 for further details or to confirm the event is taking place depending on weather conditions

PERRY BEECHES THE ACADEMY PRODUCTION OF "BUGSY MALONE"

Perry Beeches the Academy,  Beeches Road are hold what look like a great production of "Bugsy Malone" on Wednesday 20th of March 7 pm at the school.
Sadly I am having to miss it as I have another prior commitment but know how hard the staff and youngsters at the school work on these things. I would urge you to go and see it (if there are tickets left)
Why not give your self a treat and contact 360 4242 for details

MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE TO ENCOURAGE OSCOTT CHILDREN TO USE BIKES

I have been concerned recently at the low level of bike training in Oscott Schools over the last few years. Bike ability events and role play sessions have been happening in some Oscott schools, but if we are really going to promote cycling and a sustainable alternative to car travel more needs to be done to encourage children at an earlier age.
With this in Mind I will be contacting Oscott Schools asking they try to do more and I have been in touch with the Cycling and  Walking  Project team asking them to look again at increasing their activities in our local schools.

WHEELIE BIN DEBATE IN OSCOTT GOES ON

At Wednesday 13th March  Oscott Ward Committee the Oscott Councillors Councillor Barbara Dring Councillor Tristan Chatfield and my self heard from Oscott residents, their views on Wheelie bins.
As you will be aware I have been since August been passing on comments and views both for and against wheelie bins to those who will have to make the decision about them.
Some residents yesterday were very concerned how they would cope with wheelie bins as they have steps in their garden.
Other resident felt there was no where to keep the bins while some residents felt they were a good idea as they would help keep the streets clear of rubbish. (No split black bags)
It is certainly one of those subjects which residents are interested in.Sadly at the moment the Council is carrying out a consultation process and there are no confirmed answers to many of the questions being put about the Wheelie bin situation, while it is going on.

USE THE CRIME STOPPERS TEL NO

Police have informed me crime is still falling over all in Oscott according to recent figures.
While clearly I welcome this most residents I think would agree any crime at all needs to be stopped.

Many residents are concerned about giving their name when it comes to reporting crime.
 While this may be understandable the Police do keep information confidential, but if you really do not want to give your name you can still inform the Police of a crime or any suspicions you have by using the confidential NO NAME NEEDED Crime Stoppers Phone no. 0800 555 111

CCTV MAY BE USED TO PREVENT DOG FOULING

At the Oscott Ward Committee yesterday (13th March) Council officers indicated CCTV camera's will be used in some cases to try and establish a pattern where persistent dog fouling is occurring.
CCTV may be put in place from time to time in a hot spot.
Many of you will be aware dog  is a subject I have being campaigning against for some time and I welcome any positive steps in the fight against it.
I have also been assured there will be a more positive attitude when it comes to trying to deal with the problem and the new Powers to give higher on the spot fines should help.
Good dog owners will have nothing to worry about but I would remind some dog owners its up to you to clear up after your dog.
Most of our open spaces in Oscott will have either a Dog loo or a litter bin near by so please bag and bin your dogs mess.
On the national stage

Every dog owner in England will have to microchip their animal from 2016 under plans intended to cut a rise in strays.

The microchips will be coded with owners' details, and owners who do not comply could face fines of up to £500.
A legal loophole may also be closed, meaning owners could be prosecuted over an attack by their dog on private land.This has been welcomed by the RSPCA

JUST TO REMIND YOU I AM ALSO ON TWITTER

This is just to remind anyone interested I am now on twitter.
I tweet as time will allow but clearly my blog gives me a better chance of informing people what I am up to and what is happening in Oscott which I think as a Councillor that is is only right.

Many residents are fed up with having leaflets put through their door and this is one way  I try to reduce the need for using too much paper.
There are many who do not use the Internet however and for those the Oscott Team and myself will still put out leaflets and letters when we can.

It should be however noted even using twitter and blogs only allows me to let people know just some of what I am doing. If You have a concern or want to know more please email me Keith.Linnecor@birmingham.gov.uk (dont forget to add your address in any emails) or write to me C/o The Birmingham City Council House B1 1BR

OSCOTT WARD COMMITTEE 13TH MARCH 7PM

Just a reminder (see also my Tweets) there will be an Oscott Ward Committee meeting tonight at the 610 Community Centre. Kingstanding Road.
It is a chance to hear from Council Officers and your Oscott Councillors some of the things which are happening in the area. There will also be a chance for you to tell us your concerns.

Tonight's meeting will be chaired by Councillor Barbara Dring.
 The Police will also be in attendance.

OSCOTT RESIDENT FIGHTS FOR JUSTICE

Campaigners calling for a new investigation into the Birmingham pub bombings have Asked city council leader Sir Albert Bore to back them.
The Justice4the21 group want the Labour council Leader to push for a fresh examination of the 1974 outrage, in which 21 people were killed.
Oscott Resident, Campaign leader Julie Hambleton, whose 18-year-old sister Maxine was among the dead, bumped into Sir Albert at the Council House after turning up to hand deliver a letter to his office.

Along with Councillors Tristan Chatfield and Barbara Dring I have also asked Sir Albert to do what he can to help#.
Julie and the campaign for The Justice4the21 campaign are raising a petition on the subject on the Government’s epetition website.

HELP OUR BEE'S SURVIVE

There are over 20 types of bee in this country sadly some are struggling and some have become extinct.
This matters even in cities because bees not only  pollinate our food crops but also the plants we put in our gardens.
Like many of those who care about our wild life in this area I am lobbying our Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood and asking him to keep drawing this situation to the Governments officers and departments responsible.

I have also been in Touch with senior Birmingham Council Cabinet members and senior Council officers asking them to ensure they are are aware of the situation, to review the use of any harmful fertilisers and to encourage the use of Bee friendly planting of shrubs and flowers in our parks and open spaces.
As the Chair of the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve I am trying to ensure bee and butterfly seeds are used where possible.
NOW SPRING IS HERE
We can all help by planting bee friendly shrubs and plants in our gardens,
For a list of friendly plants please use the following webb site
http://www.rhs.org.uk/Gardening/Sustainable-gardening/Plants-for-pollinators

KEEN ON RECYCLING USE YOUR LOCAL CENTRE

• 
  Many Oscott residents when they move into Oscott, tell me they are keen on recycling yet are not aware it is just 5 minutes  to the Holdford Drive recycling Centre (off the Aldridge Road)
  
  

  Holford drive Recycling Centre are able to recycle/re-use the following items:
  Green garden waste, Cardboard, Paper, Glass, Metal, Wood and wood-based products (MDF, chipboard etc), Engine Oil, Car Batteries, Fridges & Freezers, Textiles, Shoes, TVs & CRT Monitors, Fluorescent tubes, Gas bottles, Soil, Hardcore & Rubble

  Holford Drive, Perry Barr,
  B42 2TU
• Operating times
  November to end of February
  Mon to Fri: 8am to 6pm,
  Saturday: 8am to 4.30pm,
  Sunday: 8am to 4.30pm
  (Except Christmas Day & Boxing Day)
  
  March to end of October
  Mon to Fri: 8am to 8pm,
  Saturday: 8am to 4.30pm,
  Sunday: 8am to 4.30pm

DONATE TO A LOCAL FOOD BANK IF YOU CAN

FOODBANK

In Kingstanding and some parts of Oscott many people are living on the edge of poverty.
All it takes is a sudden, unexpected event – a bereavement, illness, redundancy – to throw people into a genuine crisis. This is where the FoodBank can literally be a lifeline to families and individuals who find themselves in this situation.

People need help and not just at Christmas
The Food Bank provides people with the essentials at a time when they need them most, filling the gap of days – or sometimes weeks – before other parts of our social infrastructure can come into play. We collect dried and tinned food through Fareshare, supermarkets, churches, schools and individuals.

Food parcels are made available to local families and individuals sent on referral. Referrals come from registered professionals including doctors, health visitors, church pastoral workers and social workers.

The Food Bank is also able to provide emergency “homeless” packs which include soap, blanket, toothpaste, toilet roll etc. as well as nappies and baby food.

What can you do to help local people who have fallen on hard times.

Become a Food Bank depositor - add an item from The Food Bank shopping list – eg. a tin of tuna, a packet of pasta, cup-a-soups, jam etc – when you go shopping. Then deposit it in the local Food Bank collection point at:

Elim Church Kingstanding, Warren Road, B44 8QD
Tuesdays & Thursdays 12noon – 2.00pm
(Any other day by appointment)

UP DATE MEETING WITH THE METROPOLITAN COLLEGE

I met with a senior representative for the Metropolitan College (James Watt campus) Aldridge Road recently for an update on our previous meeting concerning car parking issues and other issues.

Since our previous meeting sadly Government cuts in funding have meant the college taking down one of their old building to make way for extra parking has had to be put on hold. The College is continuing to bid for funds for this project.

The college has however been allowed by the Drakes Drum Public House to use one of their small car parks.

I have suggest to the college and they have agreed to re look at one of their car parks with a view of realigning the car spaces which I believe will create some extra places. They have also agreed to try to encourage more of their students to use Public Transport rather than travel to the college by car..

The College have also introduced more litter bins on their Aldridge Road Boundary since my last discussions with them and are now looking to add more in other locations.

The college in an effort to keep student on site have introduces a new modern cafeteria and are speaking to local shop keepers about any issues which their students may generate for them.

Finally it was pleasing to note the amount of effort the college is putting in to try and help ex military personnel find new jobs.

KINGSTANDING ROAD CAB UNDER THREAT.

We all realise that the CAB do some excellent work and their staff are first rate. Therefore it is sad that due to severe funding cuts being made to the Birmingham City Council by the government, the Council has had to reduce grants being given to the CAB organisation.
This means the Kingstanding CAB office and others are coming under intense pressure funding wise and may have to close.
I have raised this issue with senior Council officials who are now doing what they can to consult with the CAB to try and resolve the issue of funding difficulties for that organisation.
The CAB have raised 21K themselves but  need more help to meet the shortfall in funding they have.

BURFORD ROAD PLAYING FIELD FENCING UPDATE

Along with my colleagues Councillor Barbara Dring, Councillor Tristan Chatfield I are continuing to press for better fencing to be erected on the boundary of the Burford Road Playing field. The issue has certainly not been forgotten.
]Many of you may recall the site meeting I arranged for you to attend with Council officers.
We believe we are now a step further forward in securing the funding and are hopeful the fencing will be improved over the coming 12 months.
One of the issues we had which has caused major delays is that the funding residents were informed by others was available, early last year during the election campaign, was never in fact available and we have had to start again to try and locate the necessary funding.

LOOK AFTER OUR NEW TREES IN OSCOTT

Over the last few weeks their have been a number of replacement new trees planted in the area. (This has been done as part of a replacement contract already established by the previous Council administration).
In most cases these trees have been welcomed and will in future help make the Oscott area look that much greener.
I would ask residents to help look after these trees and should we ever have a drought? put a bucket of used water at the base of a new tree near them to help the tree survive.

I am however still calling for a number of older large  trees which are causing a lot of residents problems to be removed in a phased way to be replaced by new trees. I am also calling for trees in many roads to be pruned more vigorously more often.

BIRMINGHAM CONSIDERATE CONTRACTOR AWARDS GOES WELL

 I had the pleasant duty today of attending the Considerate Contractors award Ceremony at the Council House for the first time as its Chairman.
This was where Contractors working in connection with Birmingham Roads and Volunteer Lay assessors came together to receive awards for their work. The event was sponsored by the contractors.
It was also pleasing to see a contingent of Oscott residents there as Lay assessor


Back ground
The Considerate Contractor Streetworks Scheme requires participating highway and utility contractors to abide by standards relating to safety, quality, and customer care when working on or adjacent to pavements and roads.The scheme first started 14 years ago and among its founders were amongst others, Councillor (at the time) Mike Olley, Ron Whitehouse. and also current Councillors, Kath Hartley, Mike Leddy and my self.
The scheme was chaired until I took over recently by Councillor Timothy Huxtable.

Birmingham City Council is committed to improving standards and making the City a Centre of Streetworks Excellence. The Council is working in partnership with everyone involved to achieve this goal, for the benefit of Birmingham citizens, businesses and visitors.

The Streetworks Code of Practise describes how Streetworks Performance will be measured and judged, and guides contractors towards achieving the required standard. There will be awards and recognition for achievement and sanctions for unsatisfactory performance.

The agreed standards are enforced by Volunteer Lay Assessors who are members of the public who volunteer to perform random surveys of ongoing construction work and feed the results of these surveys back to the City Council, providing an invaluable snapshot of the way contractors are performing in our city. 
 We are on the look out for more volunteers training will be given

If you would like more details please email me on Keith.Linnecor@birmingham.gov.uk

WARREN FARM ROAD NHS WALK IN CENTRE UNDER THREAT OF CLOSURE

Like many other Local residents I an deeply concerned about the possible Closure of the Warren Farm Road NHS Walk in Centre.
This Centre is one of a number in Birmingham under threat of closure as part of a NHS review.
No decisions have been made yet and the Birmingham and Solihull NHS Cluster is still consulting on the issue.

I have made my views clear to them which are this facility is well used and much needed by Local residents.

There are a number of petitions going around calling for the retention of this facility if you get the chance please sign one of them, alternatively write to the Birmingham and Solihull NHS Cluster calling on them not to close this centre.

Birmingham and Solihull NHS Cluster
NHS Birmingham East and North
Bartholomew House
142 Hagley Road
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B16 9PA

OSCOTT SCHOOL MINI BUS ACCIDENT

I was sorry to learn about the fifteen people, a number of them children, were injured when a school minibus collided with two cars in Oscott.4.03.2013
Three of the casualties, a woman and two children, were taken to Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield for further treatment.
The rest were checked over at the scene of the collision at the Wandsworth Road junction with Bandywood Road in Oscott.
A number of ambulances and Fire engines were called to the scene.
I have asked in the past for this junction and stretch of road to be considered for road safety measures and I will be doing so again as the reasons for this accident are investigated.
My sympathy goes out to those who were injured and I would like to offer my thanks to all those who helped deal with the accident.

OSCOTT RESIDENTS GROUPS HOLD AGM'S SAT 9TH MARCH

The Oscott Residents Groups will be meeting to hold their AGM's on Saturday 9th of March at 10.30am. The Venue will be the 610 Community Centre Kingstanding Road.
The Oscott Residents Association
The Oscott Disability Group
& the
Oscott Elderly Residents Group will be holding their AGM's.
These groups are looking for new member and Committee members.

There will also be an opportunity to ask your local Councillors Questions and find out what is happening in the area
The Police and other community leaders have also be asked to attend.

This is a good opportunity to ask Oscott Councillors about issues related to Oscott and It is also a chance to hear more about the Oscott Residents groups.

UPDATE 10TH MARCH 2013
Niel Quinn was elected Chair of the ORA
Maureen Byrne was elected Chair of the OREG
and George Hough was elected Chair of the ODG
There were also discussions relating to Wheelie bins, Dog Fouling, Council trips,green waste, It was a shame the Great Barr Observer did not publish the meeting details and other issues.
For copy of munutes please ring 675 2349

OSCOTT'S COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH TEAM IN ACTION ON KINGSTANDING ROAD

It was good to see the Oscott Community Speed Watch team at work on the Kingstanding Road today. (Near Cooksey Lane).

In just over 2 and a half hours

146 speeders were spotted

Top speed 60mph

6 x speeders over 50mph

Average speed 41.89mph


The Police informed me they found these results quite appalling in such a short space of time, the speeds for a 30mph road were disgraceful with most vehicles travelling over 40mph. All drivers will be identified and warning letters sent out. Due to these results.

The Volunteers who are the  Oscott Community Speed Watch are doing their bit along with Local C.S Officers and I am now putting pressure on the Transportation department to do theirs.

KING STANDING ROAD IS 30mph and I am continuing to call upon the Transportation department to improve the signage on this road to show that.