Grown-up Harry is packing `em in

westminster
THE AWARD-WINNING
reporter
Grown-up
Harry is
packing
’em in
C-charge extension
to affect thousands
Council tax rise among
the lowest in the country
Uncover Westminster’s
hidden gems
Youth passport to
London for free
issue 80 March 2007
CONTENTS
NEWS
Leader’s
column
Two major surveys
show that
Westminster City
Council continues to
go from strength to
strength.
The Audit
Commission
awarded us a maximum of four stars
for performance while the City Survey
results confirm that Westminster
remains one of the best councils in the
country, delivering value for money to
residents and businesses.
But despite our strengths we must
never be complacent. There are
several areas of performance where
we can and must improve.
This year we are rolling out our
biggest single programme of work to
make Westminster an even better
place to live and work.
Under the mantle of our One City
programme – which aims to make
Westminster the best governed city in
the world – we will continue to invest
heavily in our schools and ensure that
our young people remain a priority.
We’ll allocate an extra £1.8m to
sheltered housing under our Every
Older Person Matters scheme to
encourage their involvement in the
community.
Westminster will become an even
greener authority with new
environmental policies covering
everything from water and transport to
waste and biodiversity.
New employment initiatives to get
the long-term unemployed into work
will be introduced and we’ll strengthen
the community leadership role of our
ward councillors and take greater steps
to make Westminster more inclusive
by reaching out to minority groups.
C-charge extension
will affect thousands
of local motorists
7
Cover: Harry Potter actor Daniel
Radcliffe, currently starring in the
hit play Equus at the Gielgud
Theatre, is one of the top names
attracting record numbers of visitors
to the West End and boosting
London’s economy by millions of
pounds. Picture – Uli Weber
23
8
5 ■ Your council tax
– the lowdown
Westminster caps rise at 2%
16 ■ Homeless truths
council bids to curb misplaced
generosity to beggars
6 ■ Know your rights
17 ■ Green city
7 ■ Going places…
18 ■ Ward focus
8 ■ Clean sweep
keeping Soho spick and span
10 ■ Free and easy
great entertainment at no cost
12 ■ Room with a view
sky lounge is the showpiece at
new-look Glastonbury House
14 ■ Star attraction
Theatreland tops the bill with
many overseas visitors
it started in Paris – now
parkour’s a big hit in London
19 ■ Smiles better
high street facelift adds a
sparkle in St John’s Wood
20 ■ What’s on
23 ■ Competition
24 ■ My Westminster
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• What’s on guide
■ What’s On guide
Sir Simon Milton
Leader
Westminster City Council
[2]
Westminster Reporter | March
Thousands of residents in Westminster could
be left out of pocket because of the western
extension to the congestion charge zone.
The zone was doubled in size by Ken
Livingstone, Mayor of London, on 19th
February in an attempt to improve the
environment, speed up buses and tackle
traffic jams.
But the council believes it is deeply unfair
that residents – especially those who rely on
their cars and in the economically
vulnerable areas just north of
Harrow Road and Marylebone
Road – should pay the same £8
charge as a motorist from outside
London.
Councillor Danny Chalkley,
Cabinet Member for Economic
Development and Transport at
Westminster, said: “The council
urged the Mayor to abandon the
western extension in light of the
overwhelming public opposition to
the scheme.
“We have been
working with
Transport for
London (TfL) for the
last year to try to
ensure that the
scheme is implemented with the fewest adverse
effects on Westminster’s residents,
businesses and visitors.
“Westminster still considers that
The new extended congestion charge zone and, inset, the total area
all residents should receive the 90%
covered by the original and latest charging zones together
discount as there are many
Q: Which new areas are covered?
issued, reduced to £50 if paid within 14
amenities inside the extended zone
A: Bayswater, Notting Hill, North and South
days.
which they need to visit.”
Kensington, Chelsea, Belgravia and Pimlico.
Q: Are there any free routes through the
There is cross-party support for
Q: Have the hours of operation changed?
scheme?
this view within the council.
A: Yes. The scheme will end 30 minutes
A: Yes. The perimeter boundaries are
The findings of the original
earlier than before at 6pm.
charge-free, as is the Park Lane-Grosvenor
C-charge consultation in April 2004
Q: How much is the congestion charge?
Place-Vauxhall Bridge Road route.
showed that 62% of residents and
A: £8 on weekdays. It can be paid in advance
Q: How can I tell where the new zone
72% of businesses opposed the
or up to midnight on the day of travel. It is
begins?
proposal. So the council urged the
£10 if paid up until midnight on the day after
A: TfL has erected new signs and road
Mayor to abandon the extension or
travel. After that, a £100 penalty will be
markings at the new boundary.
at least hold a public inquiry.
Only 3% thought it would help generate trade.
extension are some £105m, but revenues
Similarly, a survey of London businesses
Since the introduction of the new scheme
from the £8 charge may not deliver funds for
released on the second anniversary of the
the Mayor has released figures that show a
investment in the transport network for a few
launch of the congestion zone in 2003
13% reduction in congestion of the Western
years yet.
showed that the majority believed they would
Extension.
Given such a long lead-in time, it is
lose money if it was expanded.
The council still has considerable doubts
questioned how additional complementary
The research conducted by Westminster
about whether the western extension
measures will be funded to meet the projected
City Council found that more than half (55%)
represents best value for the taxpayer of
increase in demand if the extension further
of businesses questioned said they believed the
London. Estimated set-up costs of the
changes the way people travel.
impact of the extension would be negative.
If this new exciting opportunity is of interest to you
contact us on 020 7709 0303
This
is aadvertising@westminsterreporter.co.uk
new and exciting opportunity.
or
email:
If you are interested call 020 7709 0303
or email: advertising@westminsterreporter.co.uk
“All
residents
should
get 90%
discount”
Q&A
March | Westminster Reporter
[3]
NEWS
NEWS
Gatting opens cricket
facilities
AUTHORITY AIMS FOR EFFICIENCY SAVINGS AND SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS DESPITE BELOW INFLATION INCREASE FOR 2007
That’s the way the
money goes …
Total general
fund expenditure
2007/08 – £854m
Licensing and
community
protection –
£28m
Children’s
services and
schools –
£194m
London’s budding cricketers
now have a brand new,
state-of-the-art cricketing
facility in the heart of the
capital.
The high-spec nets, which
were officially opened last
month by former England
captain Mike Gatting, are the
latest feature in Paddington
Recreation Ground.
Funding from The Lord’s
Taverners, The Football
Foundation and Westminster
City Council has ensured
that it is home to one of the
best outdoor facilities in the
country.
The opening ceremony
kicked off a two-day cricket
festival that included
coaching from Middlesex
CCC players.
The facility aims to attract
children from a variety of
backgrounds and areas.
Other
services –
£10m
Housing – £301m
In brief
On course for safer food
Westminster City Council is
launching a food hygiene
training course for residents
and businesses.
The one-day course is
accredited by the Chartered
Institute of Environmental
Health and those that sign up
will learn about food safety
hazards, taking temperatures,
handling food and cleaning.
Participants sit a short
exam at the end of the day for
a Level 2 certificate in food
safety in catering.
Businesswoman Diana
Balsom recently completed
the training.
She said: “The course was
extremely useful and the
resources were excellent.
“Now, when I’m preparing
food, I’ll know what
precautions to take.”
● For more information
contact 020 7641 1052.
Environmental
services
(includes
refuse
collection) –
£60m
Planning,
highways
and
transport
– £115m
Who do you think you are?
Westminster City Archives
will host a stall at a major
exhibition on how to research
your family history.
The City Archives will
exhibit at The Society of
Genealogists Family History
Show which is being
[4]
Westminster Reporter | March
supported by the BBC series
‘Who do you think are?’ at
the National Hall in Olympia
from 5th to 7th May.
● Contact 0870 166 0433
or visit www.whodoyou
thinkyouarelive.co.uk for
more information.
Libraries
and leisure
– £17m
Adults social
care – £129m
2% rise in council tax is one
of the lowest in the country
Westminster City Council has
contribute towards the creation
increased council tax by 2% for
and running of a modern,
Band Westminster City Council
GLA
Total
2007/8, ensuring it continues to
dynamic, compassionate and
£
£
£
levy one of the lowest council
welcoming city that leads the
A
251.86
202.59
454.45
tax rates in the country.
way into the 21st century.
Westminster will continue to
B
293.85
236.35
530.20
work extremely hard to provide
C
335.82
270.12
605.94
Where the money
excellent services to its
comes from
D
377.80
303.88
681.68
customers while offering
Council tax makes up only 6%
E
461.75
371.41
833.16
residents the satisfaction of
of the council’s funding. In
F
545.71
438.94
984.65
knowing exactly what they will
2007 the council will also
G
629.66
506.47
1136.13
be paying in the future.
receive funding from service
H
755.60
607.76
1363.36
Cabinet Member for Finance
income, Government grants
and Deputy Leader, Councillor
earmarked for specific services,
However, there is no room
£22.68 rise from 2006.
Colin Barrow, said:
formula grant support
for complacency and the
Westminster’s part of the band
“We believe that the
(Government grant that we can
council will not let up in driving
D council tax will increase from
Westminster City
choose how to spend) and
through
further
“We believe that the Westminster City
Council element of
balances.
efficiency savings. Even
Council element of council tax
council tax represents
with financial pressures
excellent value for
represents excellent value for money” the council’s aim
Where the money goes
money, and we will be
remains to deliver orderly, safe
£370.39 in 2006/7 to £377.80
More than half of the council’s
doing even more this year to
and well-managed streets and
in 2007/8. That’s a rise of less
budget is spent on housing,
improve the services that
an attractive environment with
than £8.
social services and education. In
impact on our residents’ daily
greater opportunities for
2007/8 the council will spend a
lives.
Value for money
residents.
significant amount of the
“Our aim remains to deliver
The recent Audit Commission
The extra revenue from the
budget on implementing the
orderly, safe and well-managed
league table of local authorities
2% council tax rise will not
council’s One City strategy to
streets and an attractive
placed Westminster in the top
only help these areas but will
improve order, opportunity,
environment, as well as greater
‘four star’ category in its new,
also provide support for other
enterprise and renewal within
opportunities for residents, with
tougher performance test. The
essential services, all of which
the city.
a focus on improving schools,
council was also one of only
decent homes, excellent library
Only 33% of the increase in local council tax bills will be
two London boroughs to
and leisure facilities, and top
going to Westminster City Council. The remainder will go to
receive the maximum score for
quality social services.
the Greater London Authority to provide police, fire,
value for money in the Audit
“We have consistently set one
Commission’s 2006 use of
transport and other strategic projects.
of the lowest council tax levels
resources assessment.
in the UK, achieved by working
hard to minimise bureaucracy
and maximise efficiency
savings, while still delivering
high quality, value for money
services.”
In 2007, for a band D
property, the overall bill will
actually rise by 3.4% (£22.68
for band D properties). This is
due to the 5.3% rise by the
Mayor of London’s precept and
the Greater London Authority,
£288.61 in 2006/7 rising to
£303.88 in 2007/8.
This means that the final
band D bill comes to £681.68, a
HOW MUCH YOU’LL PAY
March | Westminster Reporter
[5]
FEATURE
TRADING STANDARDS
Think of London’s classic tourist haunts and the likes of Buckingham
Palace, Oxford Street and Leicester Square spring to mind. But what
of the ‘hidden treasures’ in Westminster? Just off the beaten track are
attractions that even born and bred Londoners are missing out on.
Scams come in many shapes and sizes. Do you know how
to spot a real bargain from a dodgy deal?
locked us all in, which I didn’t like. I
started to feel nervous so after arguing
with the ‘heavy’ on the door I left. The
next day the shop was empty. Did I miss a
bargain?
A flyer landed on my doormat asking
me to leave unwanted valuables on
my doorstep for collection. It said a
percentage of all takings would go to an
animal charity and looks genuine – is this
normal practice?
Q
A
You were right to be wary of these
‘one day sales’ – they are almost
always illegal mock auctions.
The only people who get the branded
goods at bargain prices are stooges placed
in the crowd by the auctioneers
themselves. Most people receive
overpriced goods that don’t work.
Westminster Trading Standards service
gets inundated with complaints from the
public about these auctions and always
investigates them to try to prosecute the
illegal auctioneers and stop their activities
in the city.
A
Beware of any leaflets asking for
donations of unwanted household
goods and valuables – they may well be
from scammers operating under the name
of a registered charity.
The leaflets typically ask you to
leave unwanted goods – such as
brass, copper or pewter furnishings –
in a black bag on your doorstep for
collection by the charity.
They may look genuine and
include the charities’ registered
number, official phone line and
website, but don’t be fooled. If you leave
your possessions for collection hoping to
help rehouse animals or support breast
cancer research, you’ll just be lining the
pockets of con artists.
If in doubt, consider giving your
donation direct to the charity or taking
your goods to a charity shop. Visit
www.charity-commission.gov.uk for
more information.
I received a letter from an
accountant of a multi-national
corporation asking me to help transfer
some money into the UK. It seems official
but is it legitimate?
Q
A
These foreign money offers often come
by fax or letter. They usually start with
the words: “Dear friend, I wish to approach
you with a request that would be of
immense benefit to both of us.” They also
request the use of your bank account to
transfer money into the country in return
A doorstep caller has offered my
elderly mother cheap labour to do
some DIY on her house. Should I take up
the offer?
Q
for keeping 25 to 30% of
the cash.
Be warned – it may
seem like a simple way
to make money for no
Pewter figures –
just what the con work, but it’s a con
merchants want
and you risk having
your bank account
emptied.
Don’t ever give your
bank or credit card details to someone you
don’t know.
Remember, if it looks too good to be true
– it probably is.
I saw a shop with big signs
advertising expensive branded goods
for cheap prices. I was eager to grab a
bargain so I went inside. There was a
large crowd and a man acting like an
auctioneer. Another man on the door
Q
A
Sadly, not everyone who approaches
you can be trusted. While distraction
burglaries and scams are not widespread
in Westminster, there are a minority of
people who use underhand methods to
exploit the elderly in their own homes.
Someone may call at the door and offer
a good price for a quick job like fixing a
loose tile, but then the work suddenly
becomes more complicated and the price
multiplies.
If someone turns up unexpectedly you
shouldn’t let them into your house. Always
check the caller’s identification and never
be pressured into making snap decisions.
A door sticker telling residents how to
deal with unexpected callers is available
from the council.
● For more information on how to spot scams t e l e p h o n e 0 2 0 7 6 4 1 1 1 1 1 or e m a i l t r a d i n g s t a n d a r d s @ w e s t m i n s t e r . g o v . u k
[6]
Westminster Reporter | March
The Wallace Collection
This is a gem. The beautiful French
style chateau in which the 18th-century
French art collection is housed is a
surprising haven just around the corner
from the hustle and bustle of Oxford
Street.
Originally bequeathed to the nation in
1897 by Lady Wallace, widow of Sir
Richard Wallace, the 25 rooms boast
unparalleled displays of French
18th-century paintings, period
furniture, porcelain and armoury.
The collection might be best known for
its paintings by Titian, Rembrandt, Hals
and Velázquez, but its ultimate charm lies
in the beautiful setting and unique
atmosphere of its private display.
● The Wallace Collection is housed at
Hertford House, Manchester Square,
W1U 3BN. The collection is free and open
seven days a week, 10am to 5pm.
For more information visit
www.wallacecollection.org or call
020 7563 9500.
UNCOVER
WESTMINSTER’S
HIDDEN GEMS
St Christopher’s Place
Just off the other side of Wigmore Street
lies another of Westminster’s lesser-known
treasures, albeit a very different
experience.
St Christopher’s Place is one of the most
individual shopping areas in London’s
West End. Characterised by narrow
walkways and cobbled streets, it is home
to shops, restaurants, modern offices and
stylish apartments.
Café culture here rivals the streets of
Paris and Rome. The area offers a unique
mix of relaxation and vibrancy.
St Christopher’s Place manager
Margaret Newman said: “The area is one
of the capital’s most popular aspirational
dining and shopping districts, home to
more than 50 shops and restaurants, bars,
cafes and coffee shops as well as offices
and residential accommodation.”
● To find out more visit
www.stchristophersplace.com
St Christopher’s Place, chock-full of character and charm
No.1 London
Could there be a cooler address than No 1
London? And you won’t be disappointed
if you do decide to visit it. More
commonly known as Apsley House, the
former London home of the Duke of
Wellington sits opposite the entrance to
Hyde Park.
Apsley House was built between
1781-1787 for Baron Apsley. The
prominent location of the house at
the entrance to Hyde Park, and just
outside the toll gates at Knightsbridge,
led to the popular moniker ‘#1 London’,
though there is no such official
designation.
One of the most popular attractions is
the sword carried by Wellington at
Waterloo which is on display in the Plate
and China Room, as well as the sword of
his great foe Napoleon.
● Admission: Open Tuesday – Sunday,
10am – 5pm. Adults £5.10, Children
£2.60, English Heritage members free.
Apsley House, Wellington Museum, Hyde
Park Corner, 149 Piccadilly, W1J 7NT.
For more information please call
020 7495 8525.
March | Westminster Reporter
[7]
FEATURE
FEATURE
TIRELESS TEAM PUTS
A SHINE ON SOHO 24/7
The council’s job is to keep the city safe, clean
and attractive. That’s a major challenge
throughout the year. With the eyes of the world
on Westminster and the expectations of
residents of paramount importance, the
Keeping Soho clean is a 24-hour job, which
is tackled by a well-trained and enthusiastic
team, committed to keeping Westminster
looking its best. Three shifts run back to
back throughout the day and night to make
sure the streets are constantly kept clear.
The challenge facing our cleansing teams
is unique.
Old Compton Street is sometimes busier
at 3am than at 3pm. As well as the tourist
and entertainment trade,
Soho is also home to a tight
community of residents and
an eclectic mix of businesses.
For Tony, 58, the day
starts at 4.30am when he
leaves Dulwich to arrive at
the depot for 5.30am. Here,
he and Mitch, 60, ensure
that everything is ready for the team of 24
men who will service the patch over the
next nine hours.
The vehicles and machines are all
checked, the routes mapped out and any
problem areas are identified.
Each sweeper has their own beat for the
day, nine or so streets which they are
“Men leave
the depot
at 6am or
earlier to
start their
rounds”
Tony Burrows
I’ve worked for
g
Westminster cleansin
rs.
department for five yea
Before that, I was with
Southwark for 20 years.
Westminster is such a
diverse and interesting
place that it’s the ideal
re
opportunity to learn mo
and have more
no
responsibility. Because
[8]
Westminster Reporter | March
council’s cleaning operation has to be reliable,
adaptable and innovative. Westminster Reporter
went to meet Tony Burrows and Mitch Cox, two
foremen at the Portland Place depot in Soho, to
find out more about our clean streets team.
responsible for keeping clean.
At the start of each day they’re given
their ‘beat book’ that outlines the streets
they will be working on, any hot spots –
streets that have a particularly bad rubbish
problem.
The men leave the depot just after six
(although most of them like to get out a
little earlier) to start their rounds.
Hot spots have to be tackled before eight.
This means that as the commuters rush
through on their way to work, the area is
already clean.
Trouble streets are also flushed – hosed
down with disinfectant – throughout the
day to maintain hygiene and reduce smell.
day is the same, I’m
w
constantly learning ne
al
de
to
things and having
might
with new problems. It
of a
not be everyone’s idea
it’s
perfect job but for me
ow
kn
to
really rewarding
that I’m making people’s
lives a bit better.
Mitch Cox
is a
Looking after the city
’t be
24-hour job but we can
Mitch and Tony spend the day patrolling
Soho and responding to specific requests
from residents and officers – everything
from missed rubbish collections to
flytipping.
The whole cleansing team is on a wireless
system so problems can be dealt with on the
street as they happen.
At the end of the shift, the sweepers come
back to the depot and prepare for the next
day. All vehicles and carts are checked and
cleaned before they leave.
The next shift has already
started and the
process
continues
through the
night.
Streets ahead … keeping Soho’s
thoroughfares clean and litter-free
is a round-the-clock operation
Mitch Cox
(left) and
Tony
Burrows
everywhere the whole
time. That’s why our
residents and
businesses are so
es to
important when it com
helping us keep
ey
Westminster clean. Th
our
can report problems on
e
Lin
Environmental Action
020 7641 2000 which
le to
means that we’ll be ab
sort it out quickly.
Stoyan Lazarov works around
Berwick Street market making
sure the street is kept clear of
rubbish from the traders
March | Westminster Reporter
[9]
FEATURE
FEATURE
WHERE HAVING FUN ON
A BUDGET IS AS EASY
AS ONE, TWO, FREE
London may be an expensive place to live but there are still lots of exciting
activities in Westminster which won’t cost you a penny. Westminster Reporter
shows you how to enjoy some of the best attractions in the city for free.
Museums and art galleries
Westminster’s museums and galleries have
something for everyone and are an ideal
way to escape from the hustle and bustle
of London life while enjoying some first
class art and culture.
Those who want to see some of the
greatest collection of European paintings
should check out the National Gallery in
Trafalgar Square while Tate Britain on
the banks of the Thames exhibits the best
in British art.
Other museums free to enter in
Westminster include the British Museum,
the National Portrait Gallery and
Somerset House which houses the
celebrated collections of the Courtauld
Institute of Art, Gilbert Collection and
Hermitage Rooms.
For more information visit
www.westminster.gov.uk/
leisureandculture/tourismandtravel
Westminster libraries
With the soaring popularity of the
internet and video games the
entertainment value of the humble library
[ 10 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
Lawrence Clough, aged 15,
a Youth Passport member
from Warwick Avenue, used
his local library and won a
£20 Pizza Express voucher
in a competition. He says:
“It’s good because you can
get Playstation games
cheaper at the library when
you use Youth Passport.”
can often fade into the
background.
But Westminster’s
libraries are fighting
back and have
dramatically
expanded the services they
offer. Aside from a massive
range of books,
periodicals and journals
they also boast
thousands of DVDs and videos
covering everything from world cinema,
action and cartoons to drama, romance
and comedies.
Bollywood and Chinese movies are
also available along with a wide selection
of computer games and CDs.
Internet access is available free to
library members as are high-quality
subscription-based information resources
including Britannica Online, Grove Art
and Music, KnowUK and NewsUK.
WiFi access is also available in and
around all of Westminster’s libraries.
For more information visit
www.westminster.gov.uk/libraries
Jubilee Swimming Pool, free between
4-6pm to those 11-19 year olds who sign
up to the Youth Passport scheme
Something for the kids
Young people in Westminster can
take advantage of the Youth Passport
scheme.
Available to any Westminster
resident between the ages of 11
and 19, it entitles the
holder to
special
offers and
services
within the city.
Those who sign
up can enjoy free
swimming at any
Westminster leisure centre between 4pm
and 6pm and pay discounted rates for
various sporting activities including
football, basketball, badminton, squash,
table tennis and volleyball.
The Youth Passport ‘Loop’, a twiceweekly email, is sent to all members and
keeps them up to date with what’s
happening in the city and offers them the
chance to win weekly prizes.
For more information visit
www.youthpassport.info
The National Gallery, home to some of the nation’s finest art treasures
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 11 ]
FEATURE
FEATURE
SKY LOUNGE OPENS UP NEW HORIZONS
Westminster City Council’s flagship
community hub for older people,
Glastonbury House, has opened after a
£10m revamp.
While its most eye-catching feature is the
new sky lounge, with its amazing panoramic
views across London, the centre is about
much more than that.
The council teamed up with its housing
management arm CityWest Homes to
complete the modernisation of the 162 flats
in this older people’s residential block on
Warwick Way.
Glastonbury’s opening comes a year on
from the launch of the council’s One City
project to make Westminster the best place
to live in the UK and London the world’s
greatest city. The project spans four delivery
programmes: Order, Opportunity, Enterprise
and Renewal.
Within the Opportunity strand comes the
council’s Every Older Person Matters
initiative, within which a key theme is to
deliver more of the services older people
enjoy and to give
The story in numbers
them wider access to
services and
£200 million spent
opportunities. Its
over the last four years
aim is to improve
refurbishing 7,000
the health and
homes.
quality of life of the
Work has been finished
24,000 older people
four years ahead of the
who live in
Government’s deadline.
Westminster.
This means older people in Westminster
now have access to a computer ‘classroom’
and internet café, leisure activities including
yoga, holistic therapies, dietary and benefits
advice, and advocacy services.
The council has teamed up with Age
Concern to offer these services through the
activAGE programme in the basement of
Glastonbury House to anyone in
Westminster over the age of 50.
Westminster City Council’s Cabinet
Member for Health and Adult Social
Services, Councillor Ian Adams, said: “Older
people are at the heart of Westminster City
Council’s One City vision.
“The initiatives introduced at Glastonbury
[ 12 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
Greener theme
makes the most
of recycling
“I’m delighted with the sky
lounge. It’s a beautiful place
and it finally gives us
somewhere to all meet up,
chat and relax. Anyone who
feels alone will be able to mix
with other people on the estate. It
definitely feels more like a home
House mean we have begun to achieve our
goal of helping older residents access more
of the services they want and live more
fulfilling and active lives.”
Glastonbury is also a key plank in the
council’s Housing and Care strategy, which
is focused on meeting the future housing and
care needs of older people. The vision is that
all older residents are able to live in high
quality housing of their choice and that
people achieve and sustain a good quality of
life as they get older.
With much of Westminster’s dedicated
older people’s housing outdated and no
rather than just somewhere we
live. I plan to hold coffee
mornings too, install a television
and have books and games for us
all to share.”
John O’ Connor, 73, a resident at
Glastonbury House and a member
of the Residents’ Association
longer fit for purpose, Glastonbury
illustrates the council’s determination to
dramatically modernise facilities around the
city.
Coupled with a desire to improve the
quality of housing for older people is a
determination to enable them to live
independently for as long as possible in their
own homes. Glastonbury has made this a
reality. An on-site manager caters for the
needs of residents at Glastonbury, who live
independently but feel safe in the knowledge
that there is care and support on the
doorstep if they need it.
“I think it’s great
that Westminster
Council is working
with Age Concern
to improve our quality of
life. It’s easy for us to
take it for granted, but
this is certainly some of
the nicest
accommodation I’ve
stayed in and I know all
of this will really benefit
the residents. The
sunset from the sky
lounge is amazing.”
Neil Garrett, 65,
who has just moved into
the estate
Westminster City Council and CityWest
Homes managed the large-scale revamp
without any major disruption
to residents, who were
temporarily moved into newly
renovated flats while their own
homes were refitted.
Local councillor and
Westminster City Council’s
Older People’s Champion,
Councillor Christabel Flight,
said: “Since becoming a councillor for
Warwick ward in May 2006 I have seen
Glastonbury blossom.
“Encouraging and helping older people
live healthy and more fulfilling lives is at the
heart of the council’s agenda and
Glastonbury has helped make this
vision a reality.”
Brian Johnson, chief executive of
CityWest Homes, said: “Now we’ve
started to make big improvements to
people’s homes and lives through
our multi-million pound home
improvements programme, we must
keep going. We need to work closely with
residents so they can enjoy the homes and
neighbourhoods they deserve.”
“We mean to
help older
residents
live more
fulfilling and
active lives”
The unveiling of the new-look
Glastonbury House marks another
enhancement for residents and is a sign
of achievement for the improvements
and repair work carried out by CityWest
Homes as part of their ‘decent homes’
programme under the Government’s
national modernisation policy.
The revamp of the block had a
special ‘green’ theme with a host of
pioneering eco-friendly facilities
included in the makeover.
On top of new windows, kitchens,
bathrooms, roofs and central heating,
residents are now making use of
environmentally friendly facilities
including:
■ Bathroom surfaces made from
recycled yoghurt pots
■ Water saving devices in all
lavatories
■ Energy saving sensors controlling
lobby lights and other sensors
monitoring light and water use in flats
■ Low energy light-bulbs throughout
the building
■ A CCTV link from the door entry
system to residents’ televisions
■ Free internal telephone calls for
residents.
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 13 ]
FEATURE
FEATURE
WEST END STAGES
A £1BN COMEBACK
The stars come out on a magical night
The winners of the 2007 Laurence
Olivier Awards, which recognise
excellence on the London stage, were
announced on 18th February at a
star-studded ceremony at the
Grosvenor House, Park Lane.
Although pipped for Best
[ 14 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
Tamsin Greig – best actress
Laurence Olivier Awards winners
Best Actress
Best Actor
Best Performance in a
Supporting Role
Best New Play
Best New Comedy
Best Revival
Best New Musical
Tamsin Greig
Rufus Sewell
Jim Norton
Blackbird
The 39 Steps
The Crucible
Caroline, or
Change
Sunday in the
Park with George
Jenna Russell
Daniel Evans
Outstanding Musical
Production
Best Actress in a Musical
Best Actor in a Musical
Best Performance in a
Supporting Role in a
Sheila Hancock
Musical
Best Director
Dominic Cooke
Best Theatre Choreographer
Javier De Frutos
Rosemary Squire, said: “At the six month
mark, the industry was braced for a very
tough 2006 with audience numbers – and
in particular visitor numbers to London –
still depressed from the difficult days of the
previous year.
“The fact that the industry has bounced
back so spectacularly gives us great hope
for the future – and a great boost to the
London economy.”
Exciting plans are also in the pipeline for
2007 which will deliver further
improvements to one of Westminster’s most
vibrant areas.
Westminster City Council’s Theatreland
Initiative (now in consultation) is a
partnership scheme aimed at strengthening
the identity and brand of theatreland. This
will inject extra sparkle in theatreland by
making physical improvements to lighting
and the streetscape.
Musical by Caroline, or Change, it was
Sunday in the Park with George that came
out as the overwhelming winner on the
night, collecting a total of five awards
including Outstanding Musical Production
and Best Actor and Actress, as well as Best
Set and Best Lighting Design.
Best Lighting Design
Sunday in the
Park with George
Best Set Design
Sunday in the
Park with George
Best Costume Design The Voysey
Inheritance
Best Sound Design
Waves
Outstanding Achievement
in an Affiliate Theatre Pied Piper
Best New Dance
Production
Dominic Cooke – best director
Chroma
Outstanding Achievement
in Dance
Carlos Acosta
Best New Opera
Production
Jenufa
Outstanding Achievement
in Opera
Amanda Roocroft
The Society’s Special Award
Sir John Tomlinson
Bollywood backdrop is the star
Bollywood productions favour Westminster backgrounds
Covent Garden and Leicester Square
are becoming popular backdrops for
the sizzling dance numbers and
colourful story lines of Bollywood
films.
Britain is the second-biggest
market in the world for Bollywood
films, and last year 35 Bollywood
productions were shot in the
Westminster area. The scenes
appeal to young Asians raised in
Britain who use films as a way of
getting in touch with their roots.
David Choudhry, Producer and
Location Manager for UK Film
Productions, said: “There is a huge
interest in Westminster locations –
there are so many good spots.”
Outstanding … Sunday in the Park with George
Pictures courtesy Charlie Hopkinson, Society of London Theatres
West End theatreland is thriving, attracting
over 12 million theatregoers a year.
There are 30 theatres in Westminster
which inject vitality into the West End as
well as keeping its rich cultural heritage.
Last year was a record one for the West
End theatre industry, with an
unprecedented number of people going to
see high profile shows such as Wicked,
Spamalot, and Equus, starring Harry Potter
actor Daniel Radcliffe.
Overall, the theatres contribute £1 billion
a year to London’s economy, with related
industries such as restaurants also
benefiting from a reinvigorated West End.
Over half of all overseas visitors cite the
opportunity of going to the theatre as one
of the deciding factors in coming to
London.
Commenting on the recent figures the
Society of London Theatre President,
Special … Sir John Tomlinson
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 15 ]
BEGGING – THE QUESTION
A council campaign
counters the myth that
giving money to street
beggars is an act of
kindness.
Westminster City Council’s hard-hitting
Killing with Kindness campaign is
supported by local homeless charities and
the Big Issue and highlights how your
spare change is funding drug addiction
amongst some of the most vulnerable
people on the city’s streets.
In a recent survey, three in ten London
commuters said they had given money to
a street beggar in the last month. A
quarter of them believed that by donating
their change they were helping a
needy person get something to eat
or somewhere to sleep.
“A common misconception is
that beggars are homeless,”
explains Phil Gough, the council’s
head of begging enforcement.
“However, it’s simply not true.
“Nearly 60% Of the beggars
arrested in
of beggars
arrested in Westminster during
2006 almost 60%
Westminster
were not homeless.”
are not
The sad reality is
homeless” that the majority of
people are reduced to begging to
fund a drug addiction. Last year’s
figures show that 67% of people
arrested for begging in Westminster
had hard drugs such as crack
cocaine or heroin in their system.
One beggar admitted to making
£280 in a single day on the city’s
streets, more than enough to buy a
lethal dose of heroin.
Dedicated police and council teams
patrol the streets every day, signposting
those who need help to specialist
services.
The council’s extensive building-based
support services encourage people off the
street and help them towards a new life,
but there is no obligation to accept.
Unfortunately while there is money
available for drugs, the lure of begging
GREEN CITY
Areyou
killing with
kindness?
The money you give to those who beg may actually keep them on
the streets. In some cases you may be helping them buy drugs that
could kill them. Give responsibly, support local charities instead.
Got any spare change? Help us raise £10,000 for London charities
by visiting www.killingwithkindness.com
Focus on lighting and heating could help save over £250,000.
‘Homeless’ claims
just beggar belief
DON’T BE A SUCKER
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will always offer addicts an alternative.
“People give their spare change to
beggars and don’t realise that this stops
them from accessing services that are
available to them or finding legitimate
ways of making money,” says the Big
Issue’s Paul Joseph, who works with the
council to help people find alternatives to
begging.
“By giving money to a beggar you are
not encouraging them to make positive
changes to improve their situation.”
“67% of people arrested for begging in Westminster had Class A (hard drugs) in their system”
[ 16 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
Energetic ways to save cash
Westminster City Council can save more
than £250,000 by slashing its energy
bill, a new energy audit report has
revealed. It will also reduce carbon
emissions by a staggering 1,300 tonnes
a year – but what exactly will this mean
for the community?
Last year the council spent
£2.5m on gas and electricity, and as
buildings account for 85% of energy
consumption, it became clear that by
cutting energy in many of the council
buildings, Westminster could be
transformed into a leading green
council.
Chairman of the
council’s Go Green
Board, Councillor Alan
2
Bradley, said: “We are
experiencing the high
cost and increasing
scarcity of fossil
fuels. So the
council aims
to reduce
CO2
emissions by 10% before
2012 and 20% by 2020, and
increase carbon awareness
among council staff, partners
and contractors.”
Over five years, council
buildings will be equipped with
state-of-the-art heating, waste and
lighting systems that use energy more
efficiently.
Westminster’s Moberly Sports Centre
in Kilburn has already made changes to
reduce carbon emissions and save cash.
Before Christmas it had relied on an
inefficient heating and lighting system
to help run its sports hall, which caters
for football, netball, volleyball,
trampolining, an activity studio and a
weights room.
Centre Manager Kwame Cort said:
“This sports centre has stacks of
potential to offer the community more.
We looked at how we could reduce our
“The council
aims to
reduce CO
emissions
by 10%
before 2012
and 20%
by 2020”
Basketball at Moberly Sports Centre,
and left, the centre’s high-tech boiler
outgoings so we could spend money
that went on our gas bill on offering
more classes.”
It was found that by installing a hightech boiler, the centre would save 25%
per year from the energy bill alone.
“The boiler we have now is amazing.
Not only is it generally more energy
efficient, we can alter the timings to
best suit the needs of the centre. It’s
crazy to think that our energy bill was
coming to £20,000 a year,” said
Kwame.
However improvements at the
sports centre didn’t stop there. New
environmentally friendly lights in the
sports hall have cut costs dramatically.
“To replace one of our former light
tubes, it would cost us close to £200.
Now it costs just £2.50. And the lights
are making a big difference to our
visitors.”
Kwame has big plans for the money
they are saving. “We have some land
around the side of the building that we
would love to transform into a climbing
wall. We’re also considering turning it
into a children’s play area.”
But saving energy is something
everybody can get involved in across the
city, in homes, businesses, schools and
libraries. Every small step to save
energy really can make a difference.
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 17 ]
WARD FOCUS
COMMUNITY NEWS
Parkour bowls
over youngsters
Councillor
Nick Yarker
Councillor
Sarah
Richardson
Tel: 020 7641 2322
Fax: 020 7641 3025
Tel: 020 7641 2322
Fax: 020 7641 3025
Tel: 020 7641 2168
Fax: 020 7641 3056
If you would like to email your
councillor please go to:
www.westminster.gov.uk/councillors
then click on the councillor you want
ace
Rd
Knightsbridge and Belgravia
Pal
d
ing
Warwick
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Br
Churchill
Lupus
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Tachbrook
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Westminster Reporter | March
Councillor
Andrew
Havery
Wilt
[ 18 ]
Your ward councillors
Rd
Youngsters in Churchill ward need never be
bored over Easter thanks to an exciting
range of sports and activities laid on by
Westminster City Council’s groundbreaking
CivicWatch scheme.
The scheme lets youngsters take part in
everything from martial arts and cricket to
basketball and creative writing.
It has been heralded a major success after
figures show it helps cut youth crime on the
housing estates – including Churchill
Gardens – during the long school holidays
when youngsters often complain they have
nothing to do.
One of the scheme’s main attractions this
Easter is set to be the urban sport of
parkour or
Five facts about
‘freerunning’
Churchill ward
where participants
run, vault and
1 Named after the Churchill
climb over
Gardens Estate, built
everyday obstacles,
between 1946 and 1964 by
including walls,
architects Sir Philip Howell
rails and benches.
and Hidalgo Moya.
Parkour’s
2 Sits alongside the Thames
origins can be
opposite Battersea Power
traced to a suburb
station and is Westminster’s
in Paris in the late
largest estate with 40 blocks
1980s. In recent
and 1,783 properties.
months its profile
3 Churchill Gardens
has rocketed after
Primary School ‘outstanding’
it featured in films
in a recent Ofsted report.
such as Casino
Reflects its vision of being
Royale and
not just a school but a family.
Breaking and
4 Chelsea Barracks, a 5.18
Entering.
hectare site for sale by the
Madonna featured
Ministry of Defence in
parkour in her
2007/8.
video for Jump.
5 Pimlico Road hosts the
So popular is
now-famous Saturday
parkour among
morning farmer’s markets.
Westminster’s
young that two local schools, Quintin
Kynaston and St Augustine’s, now hold
after-school sessions on the sport’s basic
moves and how to take part safely and
responsibly. Lessons at St George’s are due
to begin soon.
Eugene Minogue, Community Sports
Officer at Westminster City Council, said:
“Westminster is the only place in the UK to
offer sessions on parkour and we have over
200 children and adults coming in for
lessons from all over the capital every week.
“It’s new and popular and we want to
capture and harness the enthusiasm kids
e n or Road
Thames
have for parkour while emphasising
important messages about healthy lifestyles
and staying out of trouble.
“The guys leading our parkour classes
are at the top of the sport, and hopefully
the children can learn a lot from them so
they can enjoy parkour all over
Westminster safely and responsibly.”
to contact and follow the
instructions.
ONE STOP SHOP
91-93 Church Street, NW8 8EV.
According to official figures, youth crime
falls when the CivicWatch scheme is in
place. Last Easter crime rates were down by
69% while in the longer summer break
figures showed a 53% reduction on
Westminster’s housing estates.
Councillor Sarah Richardson, Cabinet
Member for Education, said: “The plethora
of activities offered to children during their
holidays from school has proved a huge
success and we are delighted it is set to
continue over the Easter break.
“Churchill Gardens is Westminster’s
biggest estate so we must engage with as
many young people as possible to keep
them active, happy and healthy.”
The full range of activities on offer this
Easter includes football, basketball,
rounders, swimming, table tennis, cricket,
street dance, arts and crafts, painting,
cooking, drama, internet, creative writing,
health and fitness, healthy eating, martial
arts and, of course, parkour.
HIGH STREET HEAVEN
A vibrant Westminster shopping street
has benefited from a sparkling
£500,000 facelift.
St John’s Wood High Street has had a
makeover as part of the Civic Streets
campaign, which aims to upgrade seven
district shopping streets in
Westminster outside the West End.
New longer-lasting fibre-reinforced
pavements and traditional street
lighting in character with the area have
been installed as have the most up-todate credit card-friendly ‘pay and
display’ parking machines.
Unnecessary street clutter and road
signs have been removed to clear
pavements, and litter bins fixed to the
pavements to replace the previous ones
which were prone to ‘drifting’.
The project, completed last summer,
has set a new model for delivering
joined-up schemes with high standards
of urban design and workmanship. It
has also created closer working
partnerships with local businesses,
community groups and councillors.
The district shopping centre on
Harrow Road is now receiving the Civic
Streets treatment between Third
Avenue and Woodfield Place.
Following extensive local
consultation and with the support of
local councillors and the Local Area
Renewal Partnership neighbourhood
forum, Harrow Road has benefited from
new paving, carriageway resurfacing
and more parking for deliveries and
visitors.
The improvements have been
jointly funded by the council and
Transport for London.
The street lights are the first in
the world to use the latest energy
efficient lamps controlled by a
remote monitoring system. They
are more cost effective, produce
better quality lighting, and light
levels can be altered as needed.
In 2007/8 a centrepiece
streetscape improvement project
at the Prince of Wales junction of
Harrow Road with Elgin Avenue will
create a focus for the Harrow Road
shopping area.
The council is also working in
partnership with traders to improve the
image of shops along Harrow Road.
One fan of the improvements in St
John’s Wood is Sidney Solomons, owner
of ladies' fashion store Harpers, who
has been on the High Street for 21
years.
He said: “I’m very happy with the
improvements. The new pavements and
attractive lampposts are a good
addition. I certainly think it has made St
John’s Wood a nicer place to
shop in.
“This is a very, very nice
street. There aren’t many in
Westminster like it but it
needed some work. I’m
delighted at the results.”
Councillor Alan Bradley,
Cabinet Member for Street
Environment, said: “This
work has produced the
smarter, cleaner, more
modern High Street that St
John’s Wood deserves, and now Harrow
Road is getting the same treatment. We
hope it will benefit shopkeepers and
shoppers, who will enjoy an altogether
better experience.”
“£500,000
facelift
brings a
touch of
class with
minimum
disruption”
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 19 ]
WHAT’S ON
WHAT’S ON
NORTH, SOUTH, EAST
AND WESTMINSTER
Your guide to what’s happening across the
four corners of the city
MARCH
APRIL
■ 27th March
The Glass Menagerie
The Academy Award winning
Hollywood actress Jessica
Lange is set to revisit her
2005 Broadway turn as
Amanda Wingfield in
Tennessee Williams’ play.
Directed by Rupert Goold and
produced by Bill Kenwright.
Booking for a limited season
to 19th May, 2007 at the
Apollo Theatre in the
West End
■ 3rd April
ActiveWestminster
One-day event that aims to
raise the profile of sports
and leisure in Westminster,
and to promote plans for the
future. Presentations and
discussions will identify the
key issues concerning
access to, and uptake of,
sport and physical activity.
Porchester Hall,
Queensway. Those
interested can contact
Richard Barker at
rbarker@westminster.gov.uk
or tel 020 7641 2693 to
make a reservation
■ 27th March
Kylie
Focusing on the evolving
image of Kylie Minogue, this
exhibition features
performance costumes,
accessories, album covers
and photographs, set against
a backdrop of music and
video.
The exhibition covers from
1988 onwards, starting with
the overalls she wore as
Charlene in Neighbours and
includes the famous gold
lamé hotpants worn in the
video for Spinning Around.
Victoria & Albert Museum,
free admission. Advance
booking strongly
recommended – book online
at www.vam.ac.uk
■ 28th March
Wild Hogs
Comedy starring Tim Allen,
John Travolta, Martin
Lawrence and Ray Liotta. A
group of suburban biker
wannabes looking for
adventure hits the open road,
but they get more than they
bargain for when they
encounter a New Mexico
gang.
The Odeon West End,
Leicester Square
[ 20 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
■ 21st April
The Queen’s Birthday Salute
The Queen’s birthday will be
marked in Hyde Park with a
41-gun salute. This is her
actual, not official, birthday.
The gun salute will be fired
by the King’s Troop Royal
Horse Artillery.
Hyde Park opposite the
Dorchester Hotel
■ 22nd April
Natural History Museum
Wildlife Garden
The garden was designed
and created in 1995 to
show examples of typical
habitats of lowland Britain,
including deciduous
woodland, meadow, chalk
downland, fen and
heathland. Areas are linked
by meandering paths and
three ponds provide a
central focus.
Admission £2, children free
(2-5), Natural History
Museum Wildlife Garden,
SW7
■ 23rd April
St George’s Day
Celebrated with film
screenings, parades.
Covent Garden and
Leicester Square
■ 23rd April
Spider-Man 3
The third film about Peter
Parker who lives his secret
life as Spider-Man. This time
a strange entity from another
world causes Parker inner
turmoil as he contends with
new villains, temptations,
and revenge. Starring Tobey
Maguire and Kirsten Dunst.
The Odeon, Leicester Square
MAY
■ 19th May
Breast Cancer Awareness
Moonwalk 2007
Charity event that raises
money for breast cancer
research with thousands of
women, and a few men,
powerwalking through Hyde
Park at night in their bras.
With an estimated 15,000
people participating you can
expect a great atmosphere.
To register for Moonwalk
2007 and for more
information visit
www.walkthewalk.org
■ 19th May-20th May
Bathing the Buddha
Birthday Celebrations
Buddha’s Birthday Festival
celebrates the birthday of
the founder of Buddhism,
Sakyamuni Buddha, who
was born in 623BC on the
eighth day of the fourth
lunar month (May) in
Lumbini Park, Kapilavastu
(present Nepal). The
birthday will be full of
colourful and musical events
spreading the festival’s
positive message.
Leicester Square Gardens
The National Gallery
The National Gallery is just one of the many
great museums in London that you can enjoy
for free. And seeing old paintings doesn’t have
to be boring.
The National Gallery has fun activities for
young people. Visitors can try their skills as an
artist or even explore the paintings in a new and
exciting way at the family talks.
These take on the different themes of the
paintings as a fun and vivid introduction to art.
These free ‘Family Talks’ cover a variety of
themes including Fantastic Fashions, The Great
Outdoors, Second Weekend Family Events and
Toy Town.
● Visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk for dates
and times.
ARTISTS, ATHLETES – AND
MESSING ABOUT IN BOATS
With Easter and May Bank Holidays upon us, there is the perfect opportunity to take the whole
family out and experience something out of the ordinary. But before you jump into the car take a
look at what’s going on in and around your area – many events cost absolutely nothing.
London Marathon 2007
Sunday 22nd April kicks off with the London
Marathon. This year it’s bigger than ever and
some of the world’s greatest long-distance
runners are coming to London.
For 25 years, London has been the backdrop
for this sporting festival and whether you are
participating in the race yourself or intent on
cheering from the sidelines, the marathon is
always a fun day out.
Along the 26.2-mile route you will find
shops, bars and restaurants dressed up for the
Lots of fun for all the family at The National Gallery
event with more than 60 bands playing and
entertainment everywhere in the streets.
However, while the marathon is free for
spectators, event organisers recommend that
you show up early to get a good vantage
point.
● Visit www.london-marathon.co.uk
… with plenty more in store at the grand Canal Cavalcade 2007 in Little Venice
The Canal Cavalcade 2007
The May Bank Holiday weekend (5th-7th
May) is celebrated in Little Venice with a
festive event combining a boat rally with a
trade show with a host of activities and
entertainment for the whole family such as
the ‘Teddy Bears Picnic’ and puppet theatre.
The Cavalcade also hosts a trade and craft
show, musical and theatrical entertainment.
The atmosphere is always lively and
friendly when boaters, local residents and
tourists meet in Little Venice. The festivities
begin at 10am.
● Visit www.london.waterways.org.uk
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 21 ]
COMPETITION
Contact the council and help
make changes for the better
Patrick Rigabie, Acting
Operations Manager, Street
Licensing Enforcement Team
The markets and stalls
within Westminster have
been an integral part of
the community since the
1830s.
They are vibrant places,
providing an assortment of wonders,
from antiques, souvenirs and clothing to
amazingly fresh produce, exotic food and
spices.
Not to mention all the colourful and
charming stall owners selling an eyecatching variety of wares.
The markets and stalls are important
to Westminster because they provide an
opportunity for small local businesses to
trade within the
area, and supply
local people and
visitors with
affordable goods
and fresh produce.
Shopping at your
local market is also
a more
environmentally
friendly option, due
to the recyclable
packaging used.
Mark Impleton, 2006
Market Trader of the Year
So when you
shop at your local market stalls you are
not only likely to save money and
support local businesses, you are also
doing your bit to reduce waste and save
the environment.
In recognition of Westminster markets
and stalls the council is running, for the
second year, the Market Trader of the
Year competition.
Hoping to build on the success of
2006, the campaign aims to highlight
the importance of the markets and
reward the best market trader with three
months of free trading.
The winner will be announced shortly.
For details see
www.westminster.gov.uk/lovemymarket
[ 22 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
The council is committed to listening to its
customers and acting on what they tell us.
Here, we highlight some of the most
frequently asked questions and changes
made as a result:–
‘I think it should be simpler and more
convenient to renew books’
Automated library information has been
improved to make renewing books simpler,
and a new computer system now makes it
easier to access other library services.
‘I want to be kept better informed’
We’ve improved the information we give
customers by letter and over our website for
a number of services, including health and
food safety, highways and parking.
‘Our drains are still blocked’
A full review of the drain clearing process
has resulted in changes to the clearing
schedules to better meet customer needs.
● These are just a few examples of the
changes constantly being made, based on
feedback from customers, and making
services in Westminster better every day.
Feedback is welcomed. Send comments
via email to CSi@westminster.gov.uk
Come on board – it’s an education
Westminster’s highly successful Adult
Education Service wishes to recruit a
number of local residents and business
people to join its board of governors.
We offer over 1,100 courses to adults of
all abilities and levels from basic skills to
diploma level and professional
qualifications. 12,000 students a year take
part in our courses which are run from 70
venues across Westminster. Governors are
unpaid. For an information pack please
contact The Clerk, WAES, 9 Amberley
Road, London W9 2JJ. Email
zsmith@waes.ac.uk. Tel 020 7641 8117.
Any news? Any views? Write to us at Freepost, Communications,
Westminster City Council, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP.
West End Live returns for third year
The Westminster Reporter is
produced as part of Westminster
City Council’s customer service
programme.
The magazine is delivered
to homes and businesses
throughout Westminster. If
you encounter delivery problems,
please call the communications
team on 020 7641 8088. Also
available from One Stop
Services, libraries and leisure
centres.
Already renowned as the UK's biggest free theatrical event, West End
Live audiences can look forward to a stunning line up of top West End
shows – all performing for free!
Blue Man Group, Chicago, Dirty Dancing, Evita, Fame, Lord of the Rings,
Mamma Mia!, Porgy and Bess, Stomp and The Sound of Music are already
on board, with several other shows also expected to take part. The event
takes place in Leicester Square over the weekend of 23rd and 24th June.
For further information visit www.westendlive.co.uk
WIN tickets for the Trotters
The Harlem Globetrotters will
be slam-dunking and spinning
their way into Wembley Arena
in May with their fun-packed
basketball show.
Westminster Reporter has
four pairs of tickets to the
show at Wembley on Sunday
20th May to give away.
Enjoy the tricks, spins and
For general enquiries, call
the council switchboard on
020 7641 6000. To discuss editorial
matters, please contact:
The Editor, The Westminster
Reporter, 17th Floor, City Hall,
64 Victoria St, London, SW1E 6QP.
Telephone: 020 7641 8088
Fax: 020 7641 2958
Email: editor@westminster.gov.uk
Minicom: 020 7641 2948
Reference copies of
the Westminster
Reporter are
available in
large print and
audiotape format.
To have a free copy
sent to your home
call 020 7641 8088.
Printed on paper from fully
sustainable, responsibly managed
forests.
laughter, as well as the
squad’s Michael ‘Wild Thing’
Wilson, the Guinness Book of
World Record-holder for a 12ft
vertical slam dunk.
The ‘dream team’ will take
on the New York Nationals at
the match.
Fans will have a chance to
Please recycle the Westminster
Reporter.
meet the team and get
autographs after the show.
To enter send your name
and contact details to
Freepost, Communications,
Westminster City Council, 64
Victoria Street, London SW1E
6QP. The winning entries will
be drawn from the hat on 30th
April.
● For more information: www.harlemglobetrotters.co.uk or telephone 01943 863 104
For more information on recycling
call the Environment Action Line on
020 7641 2000.
Cabinet Member responsible
for communications:
Councillor Robert Davis DL.
The editorial team:
Oliver Finegold, Andrew Hadfield
and Sonja Parfrey
March | Westminster Reporter
[ 23 ]
MY WESTMINSTER
Sheila Hancock, one of Britain’s most acclaimed actresses, has starred in
hundreds of productions but won her first Laurence Olivier Award last month
at the age of 73 for her role as Fraulein Schneider in Kander and Ebb’s
Cabaret. The Reporter’s Cristina Dunn catches up with her.
A leading lady in every way
Congratulations on winning the Olivier
Award for Best Performance in a
Supporting Role in a Musical. What does
it mean to receive such a prestigious
award?
It is lovely to receive an award. But what
is so fantastic is that Cabaret won two
awards, the other for Best Theatre
Choreography. It is wonderful to be part
of such a successful production.
have grown deeply fond of all of them.
The stage is also far more demanding.
I don’t just mean physically but also
mentally because you are acutely aware
that all these people have made the
effort to come and see you and they
deserve a top-notch performance. If you
don’t get it right you do feel terribly
guilty.
With Helen Mirren’s Oscar win, Judi
Dench’s nomination and your own
award, do you think the acting world is
finally recognising the merits of older
actresses?
Although theatre has always recognised
older women, and the Oliviers have a
strong tradition of awarding more mature
actresses, it has always seemed
ridiculous that women past a certain age
get sidelined in this business.
What attracted you to the musical
Cabaret and specifically the character
Fraulein Schneider?
Rufus Norris, the director, is wonderful
and I was excited to be able to work with
him. But it was also the subject matter,
as a wartime child I always had an
innate dislike of Germans. The play
allowed me to get inside the mind of
someone living under the Nazi era.
It gave me a completely different
insight.
Why does the stage hold such an appeal
for you and do you prefer the stage to
screen?
It is crucial that actors continuously
reference their work with an audience. I
love the camaraderie that comes with
working on the stage. I have been
working for six months now with
the same group of people and
[ 24 ]
Westminster Reporter | March
Sheila
Hancock as
Fraulein
Schneider
Do you feel at home in the West End
having played so many roles over the
years?
I do. I love London with a passion. The
West End, particularly Soho, is like a
village in the heart of the metropolis. I
love city life, in fact, as I get older I am
more tempted to move further into the
thick of things! London is so
multicultural, there is no other city like it.
It really is a magical place where you
can suddenly discover a secret corner.