Forum Topics

Spurious items in the post

I have received an item in the post but the addressee is completely unknown to me.  I have heard that this is quite a common occurrence and something to do with falsifying feedback ratings.  Any suggestions as to what course of action I should take?  The sender appears to be a subscription underwear supplier operating from the Netherlands.

David Marles ● 36d9 Comments ● 34d

Lost black cat

Our black cat Rum went missing Friday night from Magnolia Road. We think he is likely to be in the area behind the houses leading up to the railtrack, possibly in the allotment area of Thames Road.   As he’s mostly an indoor cat we think he’s not able to find his way back.  He’s pure black and very fluffy, quite nervous but very gentle.  We think he’ll come out early evening to look for food, to any houses near by.  Please can you look out for him,  let people in the area know, we have put posters through doors and will be putting them in the streets as well.  Thank you - Julie 07827 772088.

Julie Symes ● 48d3 Comments ● 34d

Clothing

Has keir and his wife not got any money to buy some clothes to look smart. D lammy giving the excuse,well the starmers want to look good in front of the general public. Ha And all the attacks when in opposition documeted in video format Im wondering given the his timeline so far if he will last the full term. Those behind him surely cant like whats happening. Surely? Can his pupularity in %s get any lower

Julian Pavey ● 34d7 Comments ● 34d

Lower back agony

Who is the best chiropractor in Chiswick please?Not for me, but for a good lady friend.

Denis I. Fox ● 39d22 Comments ● 34d

Volunteers needed

Hi there,I am volunteering with You Me Bum Bum Train (YMBBT).https://www.bumbumtrain.com/I am posting this as we are looking for more volunteers.You Me Bum Bum Train is a world-famous immersive theatre experience that’s loved by so many. We’re gearing up for our next big show in Covent Garden this November, and I’m reaching out because we’d love for you to be part of the fun!We’re offering unpaid volunteer roles that give everyone a chance to dive into every aspect of immersive theatre – from prop-making and set building to performing, stage management, production, admin, lighting and sound. There’s also free training and certification from industry pros, so it’s a fantastic way to gain real-world experience and skills that could lead to jobs in the theatre/creative industry. Many of our past volunteers have landed roles based on what they’ve learned with us.YMBBT is a non-profit, volunteer-led project – it’s all about community and creativity. We work with volunteers  from all walks of life (ages 8 to 80!), and we’d love for you to get involved. People say it’s an “exhilarating, life-changing experience” for everyone who takes part – whether they’re on stage or behind the scenes.Our last show in 2015 was a massive hit – tickets were in higher demand than Glastonbury, with over 120,000 people applying in the first minute! If this sounds like something you would enjoy you can sign up here:https://ymbbt2.knack.com/bumbumworldI can also send you a pdf one pager and The Times review from last time.Or please email me for further informationaliegriffiths@yahoo.co.ukMany thanks, Alie

Alie Griffiths ● 34d0 Comments ● 34d

Oh....

''It's outrageous that the Government are breaking a manifesto commitment by scrapping the free licence fee for over 75s. This is a betrayal for millions of older people, and by limiting it to people who receive pension credits, the Government have taken the free TV license away from over 5,000 people in my constituency.

https://ruthcadbury.org/content/dont-scrap-over-75s-free-tv-licence

Julian Pavey ● 37d36 Comments ● 34d

Crowdfunding

Is money received through Crowdfunding taxable?

James Petri ● 39d5 Comments ● 35d

Hogarth roundabout

TFL are proposing to close the top of Church Street.https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/09/07/tfl-forced-to-apologise-for-made-up-accident-figures/Please email your objections to haveyoursay@tfl.gov.uk

Chris Lucy ● 42d10 Comments ● 35d

Hogarth Roundabout - more congestion in Chiswick - please email opposition to TfL's proposals

Hello everyone. This is my first post on here, as it's not my kind of thing usually, but I am astonished at TfL's proposals for Hogarth Roundabout. Sorry if I’m a little late to the party, but my bone of contention is not Church Road (I'll mention it briefly below), but the "Advance Stop Lines" that TfL is proposing on all entrances to the roundabout - these will slow the flow of traffic through the roundabout and cause more congestion on Chiswick Lane (when you try to leave Chiswick) and on the A316 (when you are trying to get home).What is an "Advance Stop Line"?   It's the white box at the front of the traffic lights with a bicycle painted in it that allows cyclists to pull away ahead of cars. I quite like them when I am cycling - in some places they really do improve safety. But they won't on Hogarth Roundabout!Why? Because no cyclists will use them! I cycle this area frequently and every cyclist I have ever seen leaves Chiswick Lane, or the A316, and passes under the roundabout through the underpass (or they use one of the several other underpasses both east and west of the roundabout. So why has TfL put them in its design?  For goodness sake, they have even put Advance Stop Lines in their design across 3 and 4 lanes of the A4! The A4 has a combined cyclepath/pavement along each side of it, which I use regularly - I have never - in decades - seen a cyclist on the main carriageway. What on earth are TfL thinking - it's ideology gone mad!Instead, what these Advance Stop Lines will do is reduce the flow of traffic through the roundabout in each light phase as cars, vans, motorbikes will have further to travel before they reach the roundabout. This will cause more congestion on Chiswick Lane and the A316 in particular.  Chiswick Lane is already frequently backed up to the High Road; the A316 backs up past Cavendish and Chiswick schools frequently. What TfL proposes will only make getting out of Chiswick even worse, and pour even more pollutants into these school sites.  Frankly, I think it's one of the most stupid things I have ever seen a government propose (and after the last lot that takes something!).  TfL is actually going to spend money on something that will never be used and overall make things worse!So, please send a short email to TfL (haveyoursay@tfl.gov.uk) opposing their plans to put "Advance Stop Lines" on Hogarth Roundabout.Thank you. I hope I don't attract the opprobrium of the cycling lobby who seem to lurk on these pages, but surely even they use the underpass too?!As for Church Street, I can't see why they can't add a fourth lane to the A4 turning left into the A316 and still have a direct access and exit from Church Street.  TfL's proposal seems dangerous to me - anyone turning into the new Church Road entrance will stop or slow all traffic on the A316 (which it doesn't presently), which will then back up onto the roundabout - the most dangerous part of Hogarth Roundabout in my view is when traffic queueing to reach the A316 forces eastbound A4 traffic down to 2 lanes on the roundabout - that's quite scary and will potentially be worse with the TfL proposal.And for what it's worth - why are they adding more cycle parking and benches? Are they expecting the roundabout to become a destination?! Put the benches in and the cycle parking near Chiswick House please and stop wasting money!Honestly, I don't know what's going on at TfL - maybe they gave this one to the summer intern to do!

Nigel Williams ● 47d32 Comments ● 35d

Ms E Evans

I found your debit card, which I took to Nationwide`s Chiswick branch. Pls contact them ( actually they should have called you already)

Chris Bur ● 37d1 Comments ● 35d

Ruth Cadbury

Ruth Cadbury has been elected Chair of the Transport Select Committee (cross party committee of MPs scrutinising the work of the Department for Transport).Which is nice.

Paul Campbell ● 38d40 Comments ● 35d

Andy Slaughter pays tribute to David Knowles

This week in parliament we had the unusual sight of a Labour MP paying tribute to a Daily Telegraph journalist. David Knowles, the producer of the Ukraine: The Latest podcast sadly died while on holiday earlier this week aged just 32. Local MP Andy Slaughter asked the House to join him in marking his passing while praising the standard of his work. As far as I am aware, David was not a local resident so I can only conclude that Mr Slaughter, like me was an avid listener to the podcast which provides brilliantly well informed daily updates on the war in Ukraine. The show was seen a global authority on the war and tributes have poured in not just from the UK but from across the globe particularly from Ukraine itself. What a sad loss of a brilliant young man.

Francis Rowe ● 37d3 Comments ● 35d

Roman blinds

Hi allI need some blinds made and fitted in my sitting room bay windows and my bedroom window. I’ll choose the fabric. Do you know of a blind fitter that could make them for me?Thanks guys, gigi x

Georgina Flint ● 39d4 Comments ● 35d

pop up art gallery

Pop up art gallery back on Devonshire Road until the end of September.  Do pop down to see some of Philip Michael Martin's vibrant pieces.Will be open daily until the end of September.

Alison martin ● 35d0 Comments ● 35d

Beware Chiswick Property Developer.

Sadly, Kam or Kambiz Babaee, the well-known TV personality billionaire property developer has been made bankrupt.  It has been published in The Gazette Notice ID: 4554512 – He is local to Chiswick. I hope he doesn’t owe anyone on this forum any money or is working on your property.

Jenny James ● 237d11 Comments ● 36d

1 Burlington Lane tower block CONSULTATION CLOSES TONIGHT

The consultation closes tonight;https://planningandbuilding.hounslow.gov.uk/NECSWS/ES/Presentation/Planning/OnlinePlanning/OnlinePlanningOverview?applicationNumber=P%2F2024%2F2610

Chris Lucy ● 38d0 Comments ● 38d

Hiring a space for a drama class

Hi,Can anyone recommend a space / hall in Chiswick that is for hire.Looking for a space to run a comedy improv class. Any suggestions most welcome.Thanks

Jenny Tollady ● 41d3 Comments ● 38d

Children in ULEZ more likely to walk or cycle

A new study has been published which finds that children living in ULEZ are twice as likely to switch to walking and cycling to school and being advantaged by the resulting health benefits.  A few excerpts from the summary: "Among children who took inactive modes at baseline, 42% of children in London and 20% of children in Luton switched to active modes."
"Implementation of clean air zones can increase uptake of active travel to school and was particularly associated with more sustainable and active travel in children living further from school."
"Motorised vehicle use negatively impacts health throughout life, influencing children's physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and contributing to diseases like childhood asthma linked to air pollution. Regular physical activity, crucial for children's healthy growth and mental well-being [1, 2], also plays a vital role in preventing the development of obesity [3], prevalent in 23% of children aged 10–11 in 2022 [4]."
https://ijbnpa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12966-024-01621-7 As motorised vehicle use negatively impact health throughout life it is never too late for anybody to switch to more active modes and get healthier so think about that next time you jump in the car and drive less than two miles to the shops or to drop your kids at school. And definitely think about the negative impact on your kids of driving them around Chiswick.  For some strange reason this study is driving right wing commentators and their dimwitted followers a bit loopy on the internet but I am sure the people of Chiswick are not so fragile ...

Paul Campbell ● 43d45 Comments ● 38d

Carpet Fitter Recommendation?

Can anyone recommend a carpet fitter. We have a small job where a patch needs putting down nice than I can do it with gaffer tape...

Simon Meyers ● 38d1 Comments ● 38d

Brent Council considers banning Lime bikes

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly9jqd5765o

Richard Greenhough ● 40d2 Comments ● 38d

Shoplifting gangs

A friend of mine had the traumatic experience of witnessing them in Chiswick Hight Road. They were verbally abused and assaulted by them. They shop in question did absolutely nothing. It’s extremely infuriating.

Siobhan Smith ● 139d96 Comments ● 38d

Snow Patrol Ticket For Sale - Wednesday 11th September - Koko Lounge

HelloI have a spare ticket to see Snow Patrol at Koko Lounge in London on Wednesday 11th September.Cost is face value which is £75.It is an e-ticket and can be transferred swiftly.A shame to see it go to waste and hope it gets snapped up!ThanksNatasha

Natasha Patel ● 38d0 Comments ● 38d

Wardrobe interior fitting

Can anyone recommend someone who could fit interiors (shelves, drawers, hanging sections) to existing fitted wardrobes?

Jo Roberts ● 40d4 Comments ● 39d

TV Aerial Guy

Any recommendations? I need a few cables running and an amp installed.

Simon Meyers ● 40d1 Comments ● 40d

Using sash windows best to keep cool

I see so many sash windows not open in the best way to keep the house cool.  Here's an explanation of how this Victorian design works:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1438187/Experts-reveal-best-way-to-keep-cool-open-the-window.html

Philippa Bond ● 2280d47 Comments ● 40d

Builder recommendation

Would be grateful for recommendations for a builder who would be able to deal with some small jobs such as a bit of external pointing, replacement of broken bathroom tiles, replacement of a window, and other things.  Too much for a handyman but too small probably for most building companies.  Thank you

Maria Barr ● 40d0 Comments ● 40d

Herbie Flowers RIP

Bassist extraordinaire and occasional tuba virtuoso (was an RAF bandsman playing the tuba) has risen to join the heavenly orchestra. Born in Isleworth and a session musician on so many tracks. 0ver 500 of which charted. Best remembered though as a founding member of Sky, CCS and Blue Mink. Composed that memorable stripped-back bass line for 'Walk on the Wild Side'.  Also notable work with David Bowie, Marc Bolan and T Rex. Rest in Peace Mister Bassman.

N V Brooks ● 40d7 Comments ● 40d

Police presence in Regent St/Pinkham Mansions

Number of police cars in Regent Street and road bisected by police barrier tape.  Anyone know why?

Rupert Holderness ● 41d2 Comments ● 41d

Transgender Row After Rocks Lane Padel Tournament: Player born male defeats two 14-year-old girls in

https://www.chiswickw4.com/default.asp?section=info&page=conrockslane007.htm"Bertie" Jenner is a man and the correct pronouns for HIM are HE and HIM. Please, Neighbournet, eschew the fashion for confusion. YOU know as well as everyone that it is IMPOSSIBLE to change sex, that there are two sexes and this is responsible for the existence of every human being on the planet. Rewrite the article with CORRECT pronouns.The Lawn Tennis Association is condoning a breach of the Equalities Act 2010. Sports competitions where strength and stamina are important must be segratated by SEX (not the mythical "gender") in order to achieve FAIRNESS. Chuck this MAN out of the women and girls' category.

Una-Jane Winfield ● 48d20 Comments ● 41d

Found Budgie In Duke's meadows

My Kids brought home an injured budgie yesterday that they found near the splash oasis in Duke's meadows. He wasn't able to fly yesterday, but seems much better today. Please let me know in the replies if you recognise him. He is very friendly and is permanently perched on my shoulderhttps://photos.app.goo.gl/hoKrYbj5RPdmv52H9

Damian Evans ● 43d7 Comments ● 41d

drivers who break the speed limit or go through amber lights

Is it in any way acceptable for them to do so? Should they be prosecuted?

Andrew Jones ● 48d25 Comments ● 42d

cyclists who jump red lights

Is it in any way acceptable for them to do so? Should they be prosecuted?

david ward ● 48d62 Comments ● 43d

Brothers In Harmoney Together Again

What wonderful news that Noel and Liam Gallagher will soon be performing together again on stage. Let us hope that they will be writing some more beautifully haunting melodies for our pleasure.

Roger Talbot ● 53d35 Comments ● 43d

Lung health checks

If you're a smoker or former smoker aged 55-74 you may be eligible for this new programme.https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-health-checks/I flag it up as a friend of mine was offered it recently. They found small tumours in one lung and she had keyhole surgery and needs no further treatment, which is pretty amazing.If you're in any danger of lung cancer, worth catching it really early!

Susan Kelly ● 43d0 Comments ● 43d

People in England driving more, cycling less …

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/aug/28/english-are-walking-record-distances-but-car-is-still-most-popular-form-of-transport“ However, people in England averaged just 47 miles by bike annually, a 17% drop from 2022, and just over half the distance recorded in 2020 when Covid restrictions created a cycling boom.”

Michael Good ● 52d98 Comments ● 43d

Investment in active travel.

As I understand it the idea is to encourage more cycling and walking.The cycling investment is clear for all to see in the form cycling infrastructure however I am puzzled where the much lauded investment in walking is being spent as I've seen no evidence of it anywhere.I am beginning to think the investment in "walking" is just a sob to make the idea easier to sell to Joe Public.Am I wrong or will I be showered with feedback pointing to schemes up and down the land?

Adrian Irving ● 51d42 Comments ● 43d

how to pronounce "chiswick mall"

do you pronounce it "mawl" (like shopping mall) or "mal" (like Pall Mall)?

Simon Pedley ● 45d30 Comments ● 43d

Buying the freehold

I have been offered the freehold of my property (converted house in 3 flats), there are 89 years left on the lease.  I have negotiated from £29 to £25k & checking a lease valuation site this seems to be correct.  Does anyone have advise having being through the process.  In particular how to purchase the freehold to enable selling each 3 flats separately with a share of the freehold.

Kaye Just ● 45d13 Comments ● 44d

Glebe Conservation At Last!

After years of community division stoked by sinister anonymous junk mailings funded by a local builder and full of scandalous misinformation,  Conservation Area status has been granted to the Glebe Estate. This is wonderful news for residents of the Glebe and Chiswick as a whole, whose heritage is part of our beating heart - the reason people flock to live and play here. Now Chiswick's history can be told in its fullest possible sense and the lives of ordinary working people of the past can rejoin those of the aristocrats of Chiswick House and aesthetes of Bedford Park to show how Chiswick really became the place it is today.Hooray!!!

Tracey Logan ● 45d4 Comments ● 44d

Cycleway 9 Brentford Completion video

For those of you on X here is a nice video from the Council to celebrate the official opening of the new stretch of Cycleway 9 from Watermans Park to Alexandra Road in Brentford. 
And check out the credit for the footage ☺️https://x.com/lbofhounslow/status/1829444000018829671?s=46

Paul Campbell ● 50d11 Comments ● 44d

Gibraltar tackles dog wee

Back from hols. Good idea from Gib (and along the Spanish coast), dog owners must carry squeezy bottle of water and white vinegar to splash over their dog’s pee.  No one uses full 250 ml!  Makes town much nicer.. ( law says In Gibraltar, dog owners are required to wash away their dog's urine in public places with at least 250 milliliters of water or another suitable liquid. Failure to do so is an offense that can result in a fine of £250. )

Liz Hagerty ● 48d3 Comments ● 45d

A316 speed limit

From 'nextdoor', courtesy of Sheila L:Just checking that everyone knows that the speed limit on the A316 between Richmond Circus and the London Road roundabout ((near Twickenham stadium) has recently been reduced from 40mph to 30mph.

Les Wilson ● 48d4 Comments ● 46d

Glebe Estate conservation area

Why the resistance to a conservation area? A conservation area does not prevent upgrading of properties for energy efficiency or internal changes or back garden changes (except some trees). It simply coordinates the look of public-facing facades, front walls and front windows (and, on the council's side, street furniture, signage, road markings and even kerb stones). Which is surely good for all the properties.  Does anyone really want streets where you see a turreted castle stuck in beside plate glass, beside clashing paint colours? It happens. And I don't think it's retrospective? So if you have a fence and neighbour has a front wall you don't get asked to change.

Liz Hagerty ● 48d5 Comments ● 47d

Impossible to log in to Hounslow/Taranto website to renew resident parking permit

Is anybody else finding it impossible to log in to the above website to renew parking permit?

Mairi Franses ● 51d4 Comments ● 47d

PHV access in Grove Park

Are private hire vehicles allowed to enter Grove Park via streets like Hartington Road and Staveley Road?

Mark Slocombe ● 48d6 Comments ● 47d

District Line tube closures

While I see that work on the Richmond branch of the District Line is necessary, dare one hope that, on the weekend of 14 and 15 September, when both that and the Ealing Broadway branch are shut down, the Piccadilly line might stop at Turnham Green (even just those to and from Rayner's Lane... which was once proposed as a permanent fixture)? It would make life SO much easier if they did!

Richard Evans ● 48d2 Comments ● 47d

Carer needed for old person

I have a friend in need of a carer for old parent. Full time carer going on leave so cover needed.   Days and hours negotiable.  Parent lives in the family home with working family.There was a post on the Forum a month or so ago by someone recommending a reliable career.  Unfortunately I cannot find it.Any recommendations would be appreciated.

Elizabeth Ross ● 47d0 Comments ● 47d

BREAKING NEWS

Sadly 2 people who were stabbed at carnival have lost there lives according to the met police No word about the troubles from our PM and a great day had by all over the 2 days by our mayor. No more gaslighting guys I have a hunch its the last carnival as we know it.

Julian Pavey ● 49d26 Comments ● 48d

Upcoming: No weekend trains to Kew/Richmond

Just to warn people that repairs to Kew Railway Bridge will mean that the line is closed most weekends in September and October. Affecting both overground and underground, of course.

Susan Kelly ● 48d0 Comments ● 48d

Camellias in Chiswick

Anyone growing camellias in their gardens? Have long admired those at Chiswick House, and in the gardens too. Note they ideally need acidic soil, but I suspect it’s alkaline clay round here and that said, they seem to do just fine outdoors in the gardens. I’ve mailed Chiswick House to see if they still sell them, fancy one for a bare spot in the front garden. Any tips or advice please?https://chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/A4-Camellia-Trail-FINAL-2022.pdf

Russell Pearson ● 54d8 Comments ● 48d

Queens Head new management

Just been for roast at the Queen’s Head as it’s reopened under new management this week. There’s plenty for them still to do, but I have to say, the food was outstanding!! For somewhere that only opened 4 days ago, it was a really really pleasant surprise.It would be brilliant if this place was a success, so please visit and get behind the new team.

Lucy Halliwell ● 55d6 Comments ● 48d

The Hound

Colour change on the facade not an improvement.Slightly strange menuFood pretty good Wine list very expensive and the 2 wines I had were not great. Certainly not for the price.Staff very helpful and friendlyLack of cleaning in the toilets.As always in Chiswick when a new venue opens, they are busy. Hopefully it will survive after that initial rush subsides

david ward ● 48d1 Comments ● 48d

Why do Google Maps routes not use Great Chertsey Road?

Inbound they sometimes do, outbound not for a year or more if I recall correctly

Taylor Wescoatt ● 51d2 Comments ● 48d

Dings and scratches to a car

My (silver) can is beginning to show the signs of being driven round London for 10 years - scuffs, dings, scratches that kinda thing. Can anyone recommend somewhere that can tart up an old motor to a reasonable standard? Just needs to be good enough, as I hardly ever wash it, and so minor faults will just blend in. Thanks                              (not really a car person)

Davey Harris ● 54d4 Comments ● 48d

PHV access in Grove Park

Can private hire vehicles enter the  Grove Park no entry area to collect / drop passengers  eg via Hartington Rd, Staveley Rd ?

Mark Slocombe ● 48d0 Comments ● 48d

Councillor Biddolph in Two Stories

Reading the Chiswick Calendar newsletter today, I see that Councillor Biddolph has featured in TWO stories: one a 'smear' of a local businessman in a licensing app, and the other, turning down a request from the West London Queer Project to hold a street party post-market.  Does anyone have the inside track on her rationale for either or both objections? I can find nothing on the council website. many thanks!

Lynne Guyton ● 88d181 Comments ● 48d

Cheese Market Licence Renewal

You have until September 13th to make comments.https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/20071/licensing/1503/pending_street_trading_applications

Liz Cruickshank ● 51d25 Comments ● 48d

Tabard Theatre Before Nell etc Final Performance 31 August, go if you can

Excellent all round, brings meaning to all those history plays, Nell brought to life and a visceral retelling of the real Agincourt...

Anne Paterson ● 49d1 Comments ● 49d

Is there really no alternative to cutting Council Tax Support?

I appreciate these are challenging times for government budgets both nationally and locally and some hard decisions have to be made. However, is it really the case that the axe has to fall on Council Tax Support in Hounslow? This is a cut that could not possibly target those in greatest need most effectively.

Diane Brown ● 53d3 Comments ● 51d

Paralympics

Sad news that banned substances have come to the fore again.Two wheelchair athletes have tested positive for WD40.

Mark Frost ● 52d1 Comments ● 52d

Dukes Meadow Vandalism

I was very disappointed to see that three beautiful Silver Birch Trees that I helped plant last year have been been snapped in half. It is hard to think what is in the brain of the mindless idiots that have done this. Demoralising and makes wonder what is the point of putting the effort in.

Raymond Brittan ● 57d6 Comments ● 52d

Mum's Whole Food

Just came across a new opening at Kew Bridge - adjacent to Sainsburys at Kew Bridge - it is a Whole Food shop called Mum's and it has a big range of products, nicely priced in comparison to say Planet Organic and very well laid out and presented.After the butchers closing down it is a welcome newcomer to the area and worth a visit.

Anne Meagher ● 103d4 Comments ● 52d

Richmond

What on earth has happened to Richmond - went there this morning- the roads were at a complete standstill - no buses  or cars moving - for a very very long time - and they say this is to make breathing better !!!Oh yes !!!!  With all the cars and buses churning out gasses to the public - What on earth are they doing ? Just interested what you think ?

Helen Bamberger ● 53d12 Comments ● 52d

TfL apologize Hogarth Roundabout scheme

From TfLI’m writing in connection with our consultation on proposals for road safety improvements to Hogarth Roundabout. Since launching our consultation, we have identified an error in the following statement on our website. It statedBetween January 2022 and June 2023 there were 25 slight and five serious motorcyclist collisions at Hogarth Roundabout. This statement should have said:Between July 2020 and June 2023 there were 18 slight and three serious casualties to the people involved in collisions at Hogarth Roundabout. Of the collisions recorded, six involved motorcyclists, one of which was seriousWe would like to take this opportunity to apologise for this error. However, it should be noted that Hogarth roundabout is in the top 10 per cent of junctions in London in terms of road safety risk. It also remainsrisk. It also remains the case that there is an urgent need to address this risk with changes to the roundabout. We are extending the closing date for responses to the consultation by one weekto 12 September 2024. You can find out about the proposals and have your say by visiting https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/hogarth-roundabout

John Richard Todd ● 68d98 Comments ● 52d

Mixed recycling any time soon?

Anyone know when/if Hounslow will be getting mixed recycling any time soon?

Yasmeen Alzubaydi ● 71d15 Comments ● 52d

Floor sanding

I am looking for personal recommendations of floor sanding services.There used to be some listings on this site.

Chris Lucy ● 52d0 Comments ● 52d

Richmond Park London Duathlon cancelled amid safety fears over speeding cyclists

The Royal Parks charity has grown increasingly concerned about cyclists’ behaviour after an inquest in May into the death of Hilda Griffiths, 81, a retired teacher who was killed in Regent’s Park, north London, after being struck by a cyclist doing timed laps of the park in 2022.The “full duathlon” course consisted of a 20km run, 77km bike ride then another 10km run. But organisers have been told by park officials that the event cannot go ahead as planned on September 8.Announcing the cancellation, the organisers said: “There have been a number of unforeseen factors this year that have led to this difficult decision, particularly in relation to the operational complexity of producing a multi-sport event.“This includes an increased focus on the security and logistics of cycling events in public spaces which creates significant operational challenges. Our team has been working hard to explore all available options in recent weeks, but we have concluded that we can’t make the event work this year.”In a statement concerning the duathlon, the charity said: “A range of factors, including significant operational challenges, have meant that the London Duathlon will not be going ahead in Richmond Park this year. We will work closely with potential event organisers to determine the future of the event.”In June, two smaller club-organised time-trial events were cancelled over fears riders would break the park’s 20mph speed limit. At the time, the charity said it was “pausing” such events while it reviewed its position on such events.The Richmond Park Time Trials, organised by the London Dynamo cycling club and first held in 2009, provided the only opportunity for cyclists to race against the clock in one of the capital’s royal parks, according to road.cc, a bike news website.The organisers argued that the time trials “pose no harm to anyone” given their 6am start time, when there are few pedestrians and the park is closed to motor vehicles. They added that any alternative routes comprise “mostly busy roads and fast-moving cars”.Organisers of the duathlon said they do not know if the event will be able to go ahead next year.The inquest into Griffiths’s death heard that vehicular speed limits did not apply to bicycles and a police review found that “there were no criminal acts which would allow prosecution” for cyclists who exceed speed limits. Griffiths was killed by Brian Fitzgerald, a director at Credit Suisse, who was cycling at 29mph in the park at the time of the accident.The incident happened six years after the death of Kim Briggs, a 44-year-old mother of two who died a week after suffering “catastrophic” head injuries from being hit by a cyclist in east London in 2016. Charlie Alliston, 20, who was cycling at 18mph on a bike with no front brakes, was cleared by a jury of manslaughter, which would have carried a life sentence.He was found guilty of causing bodily harm by wanton and furious driving, a crime under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Had Alliston been driving a car at the time of the collision, he could have been prosecuted for causing death by dangerous driving and given a sentence of up to 14 years in prison.Griffiths’s inquest reignited calls to change the law so that causing death or serious injury by “dangerous, careless or inconsiderate cycling” is punishable at the same level as when the offences are committed by motorists.https://www.thetimes.com/uk/transport/article/london-duathlon-cancelled-after-series-of-fatal-bike-collisions-f9rqvhn2z

Michael Good ● 60d99 Comments ● 53d

How to ride Fulham to Brentford without traffic

Great little video from Jon Stone showing a route for cycling from Fulham to Brentford featuring all the excellent LTNs at the riverside in Fulham, Cycleway 9 from Hammersmith to Brentford with some interesting local history and a nod to the sense in removing car parking to make high streets more vibrant as he passes The Antiques Market in The Old Marketplace.  And wisely calling for Hounslow Council to install a bus gate on Wellesley Road.  Enjoy ☺️

Paul Campbell ● 59d43 Comments ● 54d

BSi Building redevelopment

Wondering if there is anyone with some knowledge about the BSi redevelopment plans and the lack of parking provision for some 400 apartments and some houses. I have been through the documents on offer, and there is little mention of parking provision for an already heavily saturated parking zone.

Caroline Barber ● 54d1 Comments ● 54d

Acton real ale festival

As the Great British Beer Festival has been cancelled this year, we have decided to take up the baton and create a mini version in Acton, with free entry and all welcome.In cooperation with our friends at Portobello Brewery, we have curated  a selection of more than 10 cask ales from a wide range of independent, provincial and micro breweries, with styles including mild, best bitter, porter, IPA, oatmeal stout, real cider and an exotic bohemian dark. Our friends at the Pint of Hops beer shop will be complementing these with a choice of international bottled beers.Were that not enough, we have arranged a panoply of entertainment, with comedy acts on Friday, live music on Saturday, and a charity raffle and table quiz on Sunday to raise funds for Stonewall Housing. There will also be a barbecue on Saturday and Sunday, with V/VG options available.Our core range of rotating cask ales, keg craft lager and cider, Guinness and a rare cherry sour beer, along with fine wines, soft/hot drinks and bar snacks will of course also be on offer. Please join us at the West London Trades Union Club on Friday 30th Aug: 3pm - 11pm. Saturday 31st Aug/Sunday 1st Sept: 12pm - 11pm. You will find us at 33-35 High Street, Acton, W3 6ND (look for the red door!) on the Uxbridge Road.PUBLIC TRANSPORT:From the West, buses SL8, 207, E3, 218, 266, 70, 440 stop at Acton Old Town Hall.From the East, buses SL8, 207, 70, 440, 218 stop at Acton Central Station.On the Overground, Acton Central Station is around 6 minutes away. Turn left out of the station and take the first left down Birkbeck Road. On reaching the main road, we are across and to the right.On the Tube, Acton Town is a 15-minute walk away, or take the E3/70 bus; alternatively, go to Turnham Green and take the E3 bus.For accessibility assistance please see our website: https://wltuc.com/accessWe are looking forward to seeing you! If you have any queries, please email Emily at secretary@wltuc.com.

Patrick Green ● 54d0 Comments ● 54d

Different government approach to LTNs etc

Just read this:https://www.thetimes.com/uk/transport/article/tory-clampdown-on-low-traffic-neighbourhoods-to-be-scrapped-5hps96vrc#:~:text=Ministers%20are%20to%20reverse%20Tory,zones%20and%20low%20traffic%20neighbourhoods.If you can't get past the firewall the first few paragraphs are:Tory clampdown on low traffic neighbourhoods to be scrappedLouise Haigh, the transport secretary, says local authorities that want more 20mph zones and LTNs will have her ‘absolute support’Ministers are to reverse Tory plans to clamp down on councils that want to create further 20mph speed limit zones and low traffic neighbourhoods.Louise Haigh, the transport secretary, said local authorities would have her “absolute support” to introduce the schemes in towns and cities. They have often prompted local opposition.She pledged to scrap plans by the previous government that would have restricted councils’ ability to introduce new 20mph zones and make it harder to bring in new low traffic neighbourhoods. She also accused the Conservatives of stoking “really horrific culture wars” with their clampdown on anti-motorist measures, saying that decisions were best taken locally.“They (councils) had the government actively working against them saying ‘no, you’re not allowed to roll out 20mph zones, no you’re not allowed to roll out LTNs’,” she told the Streets Ahead podcast.“Those kinds of decisions should absolutely be made at a local level by communities and not dictated to or stoked by the centre,” she said. “This government has ended all culture wars full stop, but there’s no way you’ll be hearing that from this department now.”The article goes on to say that decisions on these things should be made in the community, so I guess if you live in an LTN and want to get it scrapped, start a petition and get all those in the community to sign (or indeed vice-versa)

Andrew Jones ● 58d16 Comments ● 54d

Don't go outdoors this morning! Brits are given health alert about a gas cloud tipped to fill the sk

Not the most reliable of sources; can anyone confirm this:Brits have been warned to stay inside as a cloud of corrosive and acidic gas cloud, which can cause serious health problems, engulfs the UK in the early hours of this morning.Weather maps show a huge cloud of sulphur dioxide (SO2), spat out by the recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland, moving across to completely cover the country by 4am.SO2 is predominantly produced from the combustion of coal or crude oil but volcanoes also produce huge quantities of it when they erupt.Inhaling the gas can cause symptoms such as a sore throat, coughing, a runny nose, burning eyes, tight lungs and difficulties breathing.Direct exposure to SO2 is associated with asthma and chronic bronchitis, with the SO2 emitted from coal burning during the London smog in 1952 playing a key role in the thousands of respiratory-related deaths at the time.https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13777191/Dont-outdoors-morning-Homeowners-given-health-alert-gas-cloud-tipped-skies-UK.html

Les Wilson ● 55d9 Comments ● 55d

Electric Bike stolen on Turnham Green

Our electric bike was stolen from the bike racks by the zebra crossing near Turnham Green station. It had not been locked up for long and the family member using it was nearby in a shop. It was double locked up, via the bike itself and an external lock. The bike has been sawed away, and only one wheel remaining locked up. This was done in broad daylight, on a fairly busy street and there seems to have been no intervention from the public, so just be mindful if you own one to ensure the frame is as locked up as you can.

Lucy Duddy ● 68d6 Comments ● 55d

Swans at Strand on the Green

What’s the record for the number seen at one time?  I’ve just seen 43, strung out from the railway bridge to near the Bell & Crown.

Rupert Holderness ● 57d9 Comments ● 55d

Flood Warning

For Chiswick Mall, SotG and other parts of West/SW London today.

Claire Moran ● 56d3 Comments ● 56d

Cheap entry to Kew for those on benefits

With a fine Sunday and Bank Holiday coming up, I'd like to remind people in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit that they can get into Kew Gardens for £1 at any time.

Susan Kelly ● 59d5 Comments ● 56d

Accommodation needed for young family - could provide elder care

Posting for a friend:  We are a young 30 something married couple with a 6 month old boy.  We lived in London for 2 years but had to go see my mother for 3 months to nurse her with cancer. We return Sept 10 and need a new flat or house share.  We are both non smoking teachers and quiet and tidy with references. Could live with other professionals or with older / elderly person who wants to add some friendship and support into their life.   We have done live in care for elderly with dementia in the past and would be happy to offer part time support services in exchange for rent or part rent reduction as well depending on care needed.   It can be for 3 months or longer. If you only have a short term that could fill a gap while we continue to look for a home.  In the past year we have lived with an elderly gentleman with dementia cooking his meals, providing stimulation and conversation, doing laundry etc and the family found having us around with the baby improved the gentleman’s memory and interaction with new stimulations.  Perhaps there is another family with an elderly parent who we could be mutually supportive to ?  References available. Thank you ☺️

Margie Frew ● 59d2 Comments ● 57d

Border force strikes

If your flying out of heathrow from the end of august onwards  border force are going on strike for 23 days of industrial action under work to rule. So expect big delays at times Oh yeh,LNER drivers announced 22 days of strike action from the start of September to early November. Is it winter already Dont think the two are pay related tho

Julian Pavey ● 64d85 Comments ● 57d

Chrome plating firm?

I am looking for a company to chrome plate a small item.I have found a firm in Birmingham but that would mean posting it there and back which I want to avoid as the object is irreplaceable.Does anyone know a firm within an hour's drive or near an Underground station?

Adrian Irving ● 59d5 Comments ● 58d

Bank Holiday Sunday in the Old Marketplace

Great itinerary this Sunday in the Old Marketplace11am - 4pm Food St with its variety of street food traders and introducing newcomer Helado, Texas BBQ meets Mexico, which started as a supper club at the Post Room Cafe.Happy Hour at The Fire Station afterwards.Then the West London Queer Project street party.And finally an after party at the George IV.Thank goodness for Monday off work.[But won't somebody think of the parking ....]

Paul Campbell ● 60d34 Comments ● 58d

Cycling trip out of Chiswick

We are planning to go on a week long cycling trip with a group including some people who are not regular cyclists. To get everyone used to journeys of about 30 miles a day was hoping someone could have a suggestion for a trip starting in W4 and ending up at a nice pub somewhere about 15 miles away with as scenic a route as possible. Obviously we'd like to avoid busy roads but nobody is an absolute beginner so a bit of traffic along the way wouldn't rule a route out.TIA

Mark Evans ● 60d21 Comments ● 59d

Cycle lane put to good use

C9 as an avenue of protest, cleve

Ben Halloren ● 70d16 Comments ● 59d

Probate solicitor

Hi, can anyone recommend a solicitor to deal quickly(if that's possible) with probate in the Chiswick, Acton, Shepherds Bush area?Thanks

David Powers ● 60d3 Comments ● 59d

E3 bus diversion during Gunnersbury Park festivals

After passengers were turfed off the E3 last weekend, at the Acton High Street stop opposite Morrisons, with no warnings before that stop and in the middle of the afternoon when some had heavy shopping to carry, others were walking with sticks and one person was using a crutch, I asked why the diversion was needed, if any diversion could start later (it began at 1.30pm) given that arrivals at the festivals tend to be staggered throughout the day, and if any diversion could be announced sooner along the journey so that passengers could make decisions about alternative routes before the diversion starts, to avoid the long walks they'd have to make from that stop. This Acton High Street stop is the last stop before the diversion started which meant no-one had the chance last weekend to get off to travel by tube (at Gunnersbury or Chiswick Park or Turnham Green) or to catch a different bus from Chiswick High Road. Coming the other way, announcements needed to be made before the diversion started at South Ealing tube station.  Good news. TfL has agreed that the diversion will not start until 7pm and will end at midnight. These are approximate times (with no explanation about what might influence a change). No response yet on making announcements earlier along the routes.

Joanna Biddolph ● 63d2 Comments ● 59d

Unprecedented investment in cycling and walking

Extracts and link below. It's all about  prioirities.The Labour government will invest “unprecedented levels of funding” in cycling and walking as a critical part of plans to improve health and inequality, the new secretary for transport has said.A national network of safe cycle routes could cut GP appointments “by hundreds of thousands, if not millions a year” by helping people incorporate more physical activity into their lives, according to Louise Haigh, who also sits on the government’s health mission delivery board.Cycling and walking are considered to have very high returns for taxpayers’ money, at £5.62 for each £1 spent – double the returns of roads.Asked about the £16bn of trunk road projects, which have been called “low value” by campaigners, Haigh said: “We’re looking at all capital projects, and where that money should be best spent. In a world where there’s not much money, we want to make sure it’s spent … [to] get the best bang for our buck.”https://www.theguardian.com/politics/article/2024/aug/20/labour-investment-cycling-walking-unprecedented-louise-haigh

Paul Campbell ● 60d5 Comments ● 59d

Alan Gouk, artist, obituary

https://www.theguardian.com/education/article/2024/aug/18/alan-gouk-obituaryI was in Edinburgh in the early 60’s I used to know and be a fan of Alan Gouk and several other artists around that time including Richard DiMarco, Mark Boyle and family and Jim Haines but we lost touch though I sensed they all had a great future.  I was intrigued to read in his obituary that his had a studio in Chiswick during the eighties.  I wonder if there was anybody who recalls this and knew him during this period?  (or indeed any of the others I mention). I would love to hear from you.

Alastair Banton ● 61d6 Comments ● 60d

Music noise

Any ideas where the hideous thumping is coming from? I feel v old complaining but really it's so loud!... and I live by 316 and under flight path near cricket club so am used to loud!

Clare Smith ● 63d27 Comments ● 60d

Ulez expansion led to significant drop in air pollutants in London.

Levels of harmful air pollutants have dropped significantly since the ultra-low emission zone was enlarged to cover Greater London last year, according to a report from city hall.Analysis covering the first six months since the Ulez expansion found that total emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from cars across London were 13% lower than projected had the scheme remained confined to inner London, while NOx from vans was 7% lower.Levels of particulate pollution in the form of PM2.5 exhaust emissions from cars in outer London are an estimated 22% lower than without the expansion.The total change was equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the road for one year, the report said.https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/25/ulez-expansion-led-to-significant-drop-in-air-pollutants-in-london-report-findsBravo Sadiq for sticking out with a bold move.

Francis Sheehan ● 86d18 Comments ● 60d

Greggs Plans to Move Next Door on High Road

This is an excellent idea!  When I passed Greggs in Chiswick High Road the other day, I thought to myself that the current shop is just a little bit too pokey to entice me in.  The move to the new, larger site next door will definitely be more of an inducement to sample Greggs' produce.  It's also good to know that the former Santander (?) premises will be put to use once again.

M H Mason ● 62d9 Comments ● 61d

Gunnersbury Park events noise complaint line

If you are affected by noise, the complaint line is:0203 781 0001

Adam ONeill ● 71d43 Comments ● 62d

Horrific Pigeon Scenes/Turnham Green Railway Bridge

I know pigeons are pests but was horrified to see, yesterday, that wire mesh installed under Turnham Green's railway bridge has trapped live chicks behind it while adult birds are desperately trying to feed them. By the corpses stuck to some of these compartments it seems some have died in the attempt.Tony Bull, Principle Animal Control Officer of LB Hounslow, says this has not been done by the Borough, but probably by a TfL contractor.  Unfortunately TfL's generic contact form is aimed at the travelling public, not those concerned by inhumane pest control or other matters.Can anyone think of a better way to contact TfL's pest control people?

Tracey Logan ● 67d9 Comments ● 62d

Very impressed with Snappy Snaps passport photo service

Instant, efficient and verified for non-British passport. Cannot recommend more highly.

Charlotte Kasner ● 69d6 Comments ● 62d

Allergy testing for children?

Hello — does anyone have a recommendation of a local, private provider to carry out allergy testing for children? Thanks! 

Angela Knight ● 63d6 Comments ● 63d

Gordon Ramsay 's accident.

I note from the photo on the front page that Gordon's plea to ALWAYS wear a helmet on your Uncle Ned has fallen on deaf ears with some.The last time I took a tumble I hit my head hard on the road resulting in a nasty dent.That's a nasty dent in my helmet so luckily for me there have been no long term effects affects effectts effects.

Adrian Irving ● 122d120 Comments ● 63d

Aspiring  apprentices a better option?

This morning's news was all about nervous students aspiring to gain entry to Universities.With the onset of AI likely to take over academic jobs, many graduates will find themselves jobless and in debt.For those students unable to make the cut today, seeking an apprenticeship in a trade would be a great option. In 4 years a qualified electrician or plumber for instance would be in huge demand and guaranteed a regular income for life.The current student debt stands at £250b, most of which is unlikely to be repaid.The current National Health budget stands at £182b.  

Denis I. Fox ● 65d27 Comments ● 63d

Watchmaker recommendation please

I have a desk clock from RMS Queen Mary that has stopped working and am looking for someone to fix it as the chap I used to use has passed away.The Liner has strong family connections so I am keen to have it repaired properly.Any recommendations?

Adrian Irving ● 68d12 Comments ● 64d

Graham Thorpe

Rest in Peace Thorpey.One of the finest left handers of recent years. 100 England caps says it all. Condolences to Amanda his wife and their children.

N V Brooks ● 75d16 Comments ● 65d

imaginative and talented tiler required to save a struggling kitchen floor

That just about covers it.  16 years ago we had large tiles laid in our kitchen - largely new side return extension.  Some of them are now beginning to crack.  Some quite seriously.  Looking for a talented & imaginative tiler to repair as much as possible to give us a few more years before we have to consider gettng the whole floor redone - tiles or Amtiko.  BTW we have 3.5 of the original tiles left!I have some photos - but would be really keen on a face 2 face visit to discuss the problemDavid Stranks | 07774987582

David Stranks ● 66d0 Comments ● 66d

Steam Locomotive crossing Barnes Bridge tommrow

"Our train leaves London Victoria station at around 08:45 steam hauled by Black 5 class steam locomotive No. 44871, and travels westwards, crossing the river Thames at Barnes Bridge, through Kew and Feltham. We stop at Staines and Woking then on to Weymouth."A Black Five is a Stanier Class engine dating from the mid 1930s and will be an impressive sight whilst crossing the Bridge.It departs Victoria at 8.45am but I can only guess when it will cross. Maybe best to be there at 9am. Enjoy.

Adrian Irving ● 66d0 Comments ● 66d

Working people

This is a much used expression by this Government, is anybody able to define what it actually means and to whom does it refer ?

John Southey ● 72d82 Comments ● 66d

Warning issued to dog walkers in Southfield Park

The police have said that they have had two incidents involving dogs in Southfield Park, one in which a man was bitten and another with a dog uncontrollably off a leash. They have asked people to take care when walking their dots and warned that they may need to consider seizures for dog related offences.

Anita Blake ● 67d2 Comments ● 66d

Georgia Bell Progresses

Well that seemed comfortable enough. Fingers crossed for the semi-finals.

Felicity Caborn ● 74d26 Comments ● 66d

Putting my Purdeys away

For the first time in 50 years, when I  was caught up in the middle of a war, I am unable to go grouse shooting today, this being the "Glorious Twelfth".This is because there is a serious lack of grouse on the moor in Yorkshire where I normally go to shoot, due to very bad weather earlier in the year, and I understand that most shoots in Yorkshire and the Peak  District will have only one or two days of shoots, which is a very depressing situation for all those who enjoy eating the little beauties.

Roger Talbot ● 68d14 Comments ● 67d

Chances of Bedford Park explosion recede

I've just walked along South Parade and noticed a parking suspension by the junction with Newton Grove where the smell of gas has been noticeable for over a year and where they have put no smoking signs. Looks like they will be digging up the road tomorrow to find the leak as the notice says it is for gas works. Amazing what a bit of publicity can achieve.

Anita Blake ● 74d2 Comments ● 67d

Riots

I came onto the forum looking to see what people were saying about the riots but there is nothing. Why is that?

James Petri ● 79d184 Comments ● 67d

Bus crash Sutton Court Road

More physics lessons 

Paul Campbell ● 71d29 Comments ● 68d

Bricklayer recommendation?

Can anyone recommend a good bricklayer to rebuild a garden wall?

Andrzej Kowalski ● 71d7 Comments ● 68d

Taxis

I don’t use uber - now that our local taxis near Chiswick railway has closed - could someone please tell me of a  good taxi company that would help - thanks. And a phone number ..

Helen Bamberger ● 71d3 Comments ● 68d

Sunday Markets

Is there a phone number to complain about the many market stall holders going on until 5 o'clock??I thought there was monitoring inspector?

David Taylor ● 69d1 Comments ● 69d

Banksy's Pooping Goat

It's admittedly a very clever visual joke but can someone explain to me why it is art?

Andrew OSullivan ● 74d48 Comments ● 69d

LOST CAT IN GROVE PARK

Hi all,Olive went missing on Friday 26th. She was last seen on the corner of Gordan road and Whitehall Park road.Latest photos of Olive - https://imgur.com/a/VIbhSBDShe is extremely friendly and is not wearing a collar.If anybody has accidentally taken her in thinking she is a stray, or spots her anywhere around Chiswick, please call one of us immediately.If you live in the Grove Park area please take a few minutes to check your garden sheds to make she hasn't found her way in.REWARD IF FOUND <3James - 07818727623Ben - 07714237056

James Camp ● 82d5 Comments ● 69d

Here's the website for complaining about Gunnersbury noise

https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/xfp/form/370It's quick to fill in.You will need the Gunnersbury Park postcode, which is W3 8LQ.Many sick people, old people, and shift-workers, like to sleep well before 10.30pm. I don't mind people having a party, but it's very unfair on us to make it so loud.

Simon Pedley ● 70d1 Comments ● 69d

4x4 vehicles

Me and my partner are new to W4 - great website - we love it. One thing that amazes about Chiswick us is the sheer number of large new 4x4 vehicles, usually being driven at high speed in the middle of the road to the inconvenience and danger of other road users.Big business and greed are destroying the planet!  We have to STOP them NOW! But where to start? Wearing sandals and campaigning for more recycling and public transport is all very well. But some of us feel the need for more immediate measures. taking on the symbolic targets will help change wider public attitudes. So - how about the 4x4 for a start? 4x4s are DANGEROUS for children, cyclists, pedestrians and wildlife, not to mention other drivers. They use a LUDICROUS amount of petrol, destroy the peace of the countryside, and are TOTALLY unnecessary for 99% of owners. 4x4s are a STUPID status symbol. They sum up all that's wrong with our SELFISH consumerism. So let's try to make the 4xFOOLS who drive them more aware of what they're doing. Let’s SHAME them onto bicycles, or at least into Nissan Micras!Anyone else feel the same way? Or disagree? Let's get a debate going. Raoul and Peter (2CV drivers and cyclists)

Raoul Evenant ● 7755d211 Comments ● 69d

Hammersmith Bridge  2.9m cycle path delayed to April 25

Article from the Barnes Bugle below. Bridge cycle lane delayed to April 2025Back in May when we shared the news that the Government had provided funding of £2.9 million to upgrade the cycle lane in the middle of Hammersmith Bridge we stated, with no confidence at all, that the central span cycle lane, which was to close at the end of May, was planned to be re-opened in November 2024.We wondered at the time, if we were being unnecessarily snarky when we implied that the November date might not be met, saying ‘or should that be December or January or some unspecified date in 2025?’. But, it is no surprise at all to be revealing that the new proposed date for the opening of the cycle lane is April 2025.Saying ‘told you so’ is always annoying, but the real annoyance lies with pedestrians and cyclists using the narrow walkways along the side of the bridge, who are now going to have to cope with a further six months of sometimes amiable and sometimes not so amiable jostling for space.The news has come after a freedom of information request from local campaign group Hammersmith Bridge SOS, where a response revealed that before the cycle lane can be re-instated the stabilisation works on the bridge’s pedestals needed to be completed (this is expected in November) and Cadent’s work to divert the gas supply on the north side of the bridge needs to be finished.For now, work on the bridge’s piteously pitted and degraded road surface seems to be underway but all cyclists can do is stare at the wonderful wide open road space while they wheel their bikes along the crowded walkways and think wistfully of the freedom of the open road that was granted to them and then snatched away earlier this year. Friction between cyclists and pedestrians increases as the heat rises on the bridgeTempers always seem to get frayed in the heat and perhaps that’s the reason we’ve seen so much argy-bargy between pedestrians and cyclists on the bridge over the past few weeks. Cyclists and scooterists who fail to dismount are the cause of much disgruntlement both to pedestrians and other cyclists who abide by the rules. Frustration at others’ actions get too much for some people sometimes and when they request that cyclists dismount the result is often shouting and quite fruity language. However, more worryingly, we’ve also heard tales of people coming to blows. There are wardens on the bridge but they all they can do is politely request that cyclists and scooterists dismount. As we all know, the wardens’ requests are completely ignored by those who insist on cycling along the walkways and they also seem to be powerless to intervene when interactions between cyclists and pedestrians get fractious.At the Bugle we’re keen to find out more about how pedestrians and cyclists are coping with crossing the bridge and to get readers’ suggestions as to how things can be improved.We would be really grateful if you could contribute your experiences and thoughts by completing our survey. We will pass the responses on to Hammersmith Council and let you know what they say.Take the survey Viability of the Foster Cowi temporary bridge solution not yet knownHammersmith & Fulham Council’s preferred route to the full repair of the bridge is the audacious Foster Cowi bridge-within-a-bridge solution*. It’s all gone very quiet on this recently, particularly as the change in government means funding for any repair beyond stabilisation is uncertain.Perhaps the other reason for the silence is that it’s not yet clear whether the Foster Cowi solution is in fact viable.Part of the assessment of the viability of the bridge-within-a-bridge plan is whether the bridge’s piers (built in 1824) can bear the weight of the existing bridge and some of the Foster-Cowi bridge. Engineers have been drilling into the piers to measure their load bearing abilities, but it seems they won’t have an answer until spring 2025. Perhaps by then we might know if the Labour government is willing to commit to funding one third of the repair cost and granting TfL enough money for it to commit a further third. It will also have to approve Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s proposal for a toll on the bridge for the final third to come into play. *For new readers this solution involves constructing a temporary double decker bridge within the bridge which will allow traffic and pedestrians to use the bridge while the major repair of the structure takes place around them. One of its major advantages is also that it allows some of the reconstruction work to take place off site, as portions of the existing bridge would be removed and then taken away by barge before being mended elsewhere and brought back to be re-instated. Local MPs are lobbying for the full repair of Hammersmith BridgeImage above: Rachel Reeves on left, Lousie Haigh on rightHammersmith MP Andy Slaughter has confirmed his commitment to reopening the bridge in full to traffic, and has said that he and his fellow local MPs will be lobbying Transport Minster Louise Haigh to confirm government support for the bridge's repair. Speaking at a Chamber of  Commerce meeting in Hammersmith Mr Slaughter described the lack of progress on the repair of the bridge as  a national and international embarrassment. While this does seem to improve the prospects of Hammersmith Bridge being repaired in the long term there are still some issues to be overcome. The first impediment will be the government's purse strings which will be tight after Chancellor Rachel Reeves' assertion that the previous Conservative government has left the new administration with a £20 billion fiscal hole. The second is that the actual costs of repairing the bridge are far from clear. Given that the viability of the Foster Cowi solution won't be known until spring next year, it's unlikely that a fair estimate of cost will be in place until mid next year. The Department for Transport is unlikely to write a blank cheque so it looks unlikely that there will be any firm commitment from government until the route forward to repair is more certain. Hammersmith Bridge to completely close for four days this autumnA  crucial part of the bridge’s stabilisation process involves jacking up the bearings of its four pedestals, and this process is planned for each of the pedestals this autumn. While this is being done separately for each pedestal, the bridge will be completely closed for a 24-hour period. We don’t have dates for these closures, but we do know that they are planned to start on Friday evenings after the commuter rush and carry on for 24 hours into Saturday on each occasion.

Adrian Irving ● 74d2 Comments ● 70d

Cargo bike use up 73% in City of London

Good news as more businesses embrace low cost sustainable deliveries https://www.forbes.com/sites/carltonreid/2024/08/07/cargo-bike-use-in-city-of-london-up-by-73-analysis-shows/

Paul Campbell ● 71d4 Comments ● 70d

Step-free at Turnham Green?

From TfL's press release: A further seven Tube stations will also undergo assessment for step-free access feasibility; they are Croxley (Metropolitan line), East Finchley (Northern line), Neasden (Jubilee line), Northwood (Metropolitan line) and Turnham Green (District / Piccadilly lines), as well as Colliers Wood and Tooting Broadway on the Northern line.Don't hang up your walking stick just yet, this isn't going to be quick.

Mike Smith ● 75d19 Comments ● 70d

"No gaol sentence for Damilola killer"!!

This article on the front page did make me angry. What were the judges thinking??

Davey Harris ● 74d36 Comments ● 71d

Tree surgeon

Can someone recommend a tree surgeon please.

Alison Taylor ● 71d1 Comments ● 71d

Citroen Ami

Tiny run around, 50 mile radius on 4 hour full charge under £8000 they say it's a rubbish car but good little run about for the city, two seater don't think there would be much room for shopping though.  It's actually a quadricycle.