Forum Topics

Meadow restaurant

Does anybody know what is happening at Meadow restaurant? The last couple of times I went passed it appeared to be closed. I tried calling to book a table but got no answer and Google has it listed as 'temporarily closed'. I hope this is the case rather than it being gone for good.

Tricia Arbuthnot ● 124d1 Comments ● 124d

Gurnell Residential Tower Blocks

On 15 January 2025 Ealing Council will decide whether to approve or reject its own Planning Application (24170OUTR3) for 300 flats in tower blocks rising to 10 storeys. Is it right that the Council is allowed to mark its own homework? Surely the GLA or the Government should determine this proposed development.Part of the plan is to build a new Gurnell swimming pool for £45 million. Just a few years ago Ealing Conservatives estimated it would cost £18 million to repair the old swimming pool.This is the second attempt by the Council to massively develop the site. In 2021 a proposal by Malaysian developer EcoWorld for 600 flats in towers rising to 17 storeys was rejected by the Council Planning Committee.As for the new proposal, it's in the flood plain of Ealing's biggest flood risk - the River Brent. It is also on Metropolitan Open Land which can only be built upon 'in very special circumstances'. The site is also somewhat 'remote' - no major transport hub nearby, or GP surgery or shops. With just 30 car parking places for 300 flats (700+ residents) nearby Gurnell Grove will be flooded with new residents' cars.Come along to the Planning Committee meeting in Perceval House at 7pm on Wednesday 15 January and watch Councillors and Planning Officers argue with themselves and each other about to build or not to build.

Eric Alan Leach ● 141d15 Comments ● 124d

What happens to old Xmas trees?

Given the council have reneged on their green waste collection terms, can we expect the many trees I saw today on the way to Ealing Broadway station to remain on the pavements? Before they would have been picked up along with the green waste bags/bins once a fortnight. With the lorries for green waste in the depot (or leased out to other councils), where would the trees go, to landfill?

peter king ● 133d17 Comments ● 125d

It's official: we must attempt to reduce our car usage

https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/london-europe-most-congested-capital-city-paris-dublin-b1203209.htmlIn the report, who said "Londoners should help cut congestion by travelling via walking, cycling and taking public transport"?

Ben Owen ● 134d63 Comments ● 125d

Happy New Year everyone!

Any (positive) resolutions, or hopes and dreams for 2025?

Dominik Klimowski ● 140d16 Comments ● 131d

Seeking a small 180 Litre size Recycling Bin

Would anyone like to swop their small 180 Litre size Recycling Bin for the standard 240 Litre Size + £50 to sweeten the deal. If so please let me know. I am in Hanwell.

Julian Poole ● 133d3 Comments ● 133d

I'm sure Ealing's Jewish residents will be looking at our beloved council's response

https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/teenager-delivers-impassioned-plea-ealing-30568313

peter king ● 159d7 Comments ● 138d

The Death of Ealing: How London suburb is being 'ruined' by gentrification - and hated Gail's bakery

Just found this little gem while jumping between two newspapers at either end of the political spectrum - https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13987127/Ealing-London-ruined-gentrification-Gails-bakery.html

peter king ● 138d0 Comments ● 138d

If Sadiq Khan actually does get Knighted, it shows everything rotten about the Honours system.

He's done nothing but posture, grandstand and oversee the decline of London, especially knife crime, which has soared on his watch.He deserves firing, not giving him a Knighthood, which is farcical and proves you can be a gross incompetent and fail upwards.Like SO many things in Britain today the system is broken, and twits like him still get rewarded.I despair.(Shakes head and goes to bed early)    😊

Rosco White ● 166d39 Comments ● 138d

Quiet Anti Semitism or abject failure of the Local Council

Last January, the Ealing Holocaust Memorial Garden had a grand dedication of a memorial stone. Within a few days, this was removed due to further errors with the inscription—a notice in the park said the issue was being resolved and would be replaced soon. It's now nearly 12 months since this occurred, and nothing has been replaced. Does anyone know if this will be replaced soon?

Simon Hayward ● 138d0 Comments ● 138d

Stealth Decimation of Lammas Continues

You thought LTNs and stagnant pools were / are bad?Think again baby!!Next in line is the destruction of Culmington Road under the guise of it being “safer, greener, healthier”This hot on the heels of Boston Manor Road being further destroyed I just don’t get it…. Things have been fine and dandy for decades but these thought police and eco warriors just press on with their agenda https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Q4w6AYeCi0yHixMeMM2585ihMuJTkQhAi2mulIGIsqlUMUxGTDNDNlg0Qkk1UEVQSEdSRVJTUVVSSC4u&route=shorturlIf you can’t cut n paste in then just google Culmington RoadI’m up for additional zebra crossings and improved lighting but the rest of it is madness

Colin Goodman ● 216d210 Comments ● 138d

LTN’s - 20min Neighbourhoods — What I Learnt Last Night

Went to Ealing Councils “Community Workshop for Ealings 20 Minute Framework for Ealing Broadway & South Ealing” last nightDidn’t know about it did you? I’m not surprised as we only heard last minute via an obscure social media post; it was advertised as Sold Out via Eventbrite but this was wrong and there was plenty of capacity. In fact it was very sparsely attended!!!The buzzwords were “Primary Active Travel Route”; “Greener Active Travel Link”; “ Climate Change and Ecological Emergency Plan” and wonderful ideas such as Focus Zones, Placemaking etcCut to the chase: this is the return of LTN’s only on steroids now.Plans under consideration (ie coming your way in a year or two) are to make South Ealing Road a Primary Active Travel Route. Questioned what this actually is the spin answer was where walking and cycling encouraged but, despite constant requests, the details of what this looked like couldn’t be shared. When I stated this can only be at the expense of car travel and “another as Chiswick High Road disaster” the very nice young lady could only go crimson and I got no response really.Exactly the same when talking about the Uxbridge Road junction around The North StarAll of these plans are formulated via the online responses numbering 1,100 which is a 1.25% sample of the effected population in these areasWhen asked where the people rolling these ideas out lived they were rather sheepish in confirming they didn’t live in these areas, some actually not even Ealing rather the well known cycling stazi of Islington!! The regeneration aspect for these areas is of course laudable and welcome.However clearly this will be at the expense of heritage and your freedom of movement by means you may choose freely The final classic snippets were nobody from Planning in attendance or involved, no consideration apparently in respect of high density high rise blocks with this just being about infrastructure. So totally disjointed which to the average Joe must appear mad as don’t you plan your infrastructure around the expected built environment as a whole???In short — there’s a nightmare heading our way

Colin Goodman ● 532d207 Comments ● 138d

Ealing Nighttime Economy Consultation

Ealing Council has launched a public consultation about the increase in the nighttime economy ( activity after 6 p.m.). The consultation closes at Noon on January 17th.I encourage forum readers and residents to read the details, understand the positive and negative impacts, and express their feelings.Any changes in Alcohol licensing should not be implemented until there have been positive and proven improvements in local policing and the number of officers available. This should also be done in conjunction with reducing antisocial behaviour and drug dealing on the streets and improving street lighting. It shouldn't just involve increasing CCTV and local council wardens.The consultation can be found here https://ealinglicensingpolicy2025.co.uk/

Simon Hayward ● 142d3 Comments ● 141d

I asked AI for the options to legally dismiss a UK Government.

I would wager that most of us are rather unhappy with Comrade Starmer and his Stasi, to say the least. The last option 5 seems very viable to me, I will notify Reform :-In the UK, there are several legal options for dismissing an elected government and triggering a new general election:1/ Fixed-term elections: By law, a general election must be held at least every five years. 2/ Prime Minister's request: The Prime Minister can request the King to dissolve Parliament and call an early election2. The King typically grants this request, as it is part of the royal prerogative exercised on ministerial advice.3/ Vote of no confidence: If the government loses a vote of no confidence in the House of Commons, they are expected to either resign or call a general election.4/ Loss of majority: If the government loses its working majority in Parliament, it may be forced to call an election or resign.5/ Recall petitions: While this doesn't directly dismiss the government, individual MPs can be subject to recall petitions. If 10% of voters in a constituency sign a recall petition, the MP loses their seat, triggering a by-election.It's important to note that the public cannot directly force a general election. Opposition parties and the public can only try to put pressure on the government if they believe an election should be held sooner.The King's role in calling elections is largely ceremonial. While the King technically has the power to refuse a dissolution request, this has not happened in modern times and would be highly controversial.

Rosco White ● 154d36 Comments ● 147d

Changes to Waste & Recycling Collections over Christmas & New Year

https://www.ealing.gov.uk/info/201167/rubbish_and_recycling/3229/rubbish_and_recycling_collections_-_christmas_2024or check the front page of the Ealing Today website where there this article is.

Philippa Bond ● 149d0 Comments ● 149d

Acton Reduce and Recycle hub and electrical repair party 11/01/2025

The Reduce and Recycle hub is back on Saturday 11th January for a Bumper Bundle event!!We are teaming up with the Restart Party and Ealing Council to bring you a special indoors edition of the The Reduce and Recycle hub. You will find us from 11.30am to 3.00pm at St Marys Church , the Mount, Acton W3 9NWThe event will include:🔧A free electrical repair party , come along with you small electrical appliances that are slow or now working - booking is essential and appointments limited. Check what you can bring and book your fixing slot here - https://shorturl.at/MqauP🎁 Christmas gift Swap - Bring along your new unloved christmas gift and swap it with someones elses♻Our usual recycling collection points for clothes and small electricals items( Until 2pm)🧺Ealing Repair Cafe will be on hand to to help people to mend and fix clothes and will be running draft excluder making workshops.📚Our usual book swap with the CCA.🌱A Seed Swap with Cultivate London👗Get help to refresh an old outfit with our personal stylist (book at: actonmarketw3@gmail.com)🍞Taking Donations of, unopened, long life food and snacks for Ealing Food BankFor more information visit : https://marketw3.co.uk/

Zahra Shah ● 151d0 Comments ● 151d

Wottasurprise - Shamed human rights lawyer faces sentencing for £3m legal aid scam .......

Woke Lefties are SO "Holier Than Thou."   🤣Shamed human rights lawyer faces sentencing for £3m legal aid scam that falsely accused Iraq war veterans of murder and torture.Phil Shiner, 67, from Birmingham, has admitted three counts of fraud A disgraced former human rights lawyer is due to be sentenced today over a £3million legal aid scam involving claims against Iraq war veterans.Phil Shiner, 67, who was struck off for pursuing false torture and murder allegations against British soldiers, admitted three counts of fraud on the eve of his trial.A former soldier who was among those targeted has vowed to attend today's sentencing hearing at Southwark Crown Court, saying he wants to look Shiner in the eye as punishment is handed down.Robert Campbell, who was a major in the Royal Engineers, branded Shiner a liar who 'duped the legal establishment glitterati into thinking he was on some kind of crusade'.Shiner, who was the principal solicitor of the law firm Public Interest Lawyers, was struck off as a solicitor in 2017 at a tribunal after being found guilty of misconduct and dishonesty relating to false abuse claims against British troops.He will now be sentenced for fraud after admitting that an agent acting on his behalf had been cold-calling potential clients in Iraq.He also admitted paying referral fees, both of which breached the terms of being granted a legal aid contract as part of a judicial review. The charges carry a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. Shiner has been on bail since pleading guilty in September this year.Philip Shiner, who was struck off for pursuing false torture and murder allegations against British soldiers, is due to be sentenced after admitting three counts of fraudShiner had brought thousands of criminal complaints to the Iraq Historic Investigations Team – a body set up by the Ministry of Defence to investigate soldiers. Not a single one was ever charged. Mr Campbell was accused of drowning Iraqi teenager Saeed Shabram in a river in Basra in May 2003, and was scrutinised in eight investigations into the 19-year-old's death, including one for possible manslaughter, before he was ultimately cleared.In 2020, judge Baroness Hallett decided there was 'no reliable evidence upon which it would be proper to conclude' that Mr Campbell or any other British soldier pushed or forced Mr Shabram into the water.Mr Campbell has now said ahead of today's sentencing: 'We were investigated eight times before we were exonerated because Phil Shiner just kept lying and lying and lying.'The 51-year-old, who was medically discharged from the army in 2018, added: 'I want to catch his eye. I want to look at him. I want to see what he looks like.'I wish I could address the court but I can't because he's not actually being sentenced for lying about me he's just being sentenced for fraud.'Asked what he would say to the court if he had the opportunity, Mr Campbell said Shiner had 'duped the Ministry of Defence, he duped human rights groups, he duped the legal aid authority, he duped the BBC and he duped the legal establishment glitterati into thinking he was on some kind of crusade and he wasn't'.Shiner had made an application to the Legal Services Commission in 2007 in which he sought up to £200,000 of legal aid funding for his firm to represent clients including Khuder Al-Sweady, in an application for judicial review.Shiner, pictured outside London's High Court in January 2013, had brought thousands of criminal complaints to the Iraq Historic Investigations Team. No troops were charged as a resultAccording to the National Crime Agency, he received about £3million in the value of the contract.And the ensuing Al-Sweady inquiry into allegations of mistreatment and unlawful killing of Iraqi nationals by British troops in 2004 cost the taxpayer £24million.The inquiry found that Mr Al-Sweady's nephew Hamid Al-Sweady had been killed 'outright' whilst fighting, and had been a 'willing and active' participant in an attack on British forces.It concluded that the most serious claims of murder and torture were ‘wholly without foundation and entirely the product of deliberate lies, reckless speculation and ingrained hostility’.Shiner was later declared bankrupt after being struck off for ­dishonesty and other offences by the Solicitors Regulation ­Authority for pursuing false torture and murder allegations against British troops.In making his 2007 application, Shiner failed to disclose that an agent acting on his behalf and with his knowledge had been cold-calling and making unsolicited approaches to potential clients in Iraq. He also failed to disclose that he was paying referral fees.This practice was not permitted as part of gaining a legal aid contract, the NCA said.Shiner was also convicted for providing a witness statement to the commission in support of his application, which was again gained by an unsolicited approach.As a result of his failure to disclose this information, Shiner was able to gain a 'valuable legal aid contract to enable him to pursue the judicial review', the NCA said.https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14176451/Disgraced-human-rights-lawyer-3million-legal-aid-scam-linked-claims-against-Iraq-War-veterans-sentenced-today-major-targeted-vows-want-look-eye.html

Rosco White ● 161d13 Comments ● 153d

Ealing Council Wants Feedback on EV Charging Strategy

Yet another Ealing council ploy for telling the Muppets that vote for them that they will take their views into account. Like their council satisfaction survey that always seems to suggest that the majority of residents think they are doing a good job, this one wants a pat on the back for their roll out of EV charging points - https://www.ealingtoday.co.uk/default.asp?section=community&link=https://neighbournet.com/server/common/eaparking031.htm. I have a hybrid car and would not consider any roadside charging point on the grounds of cost (highlighted by Which magazine). A VAT rate of 20% compared to just 5% if you do it at home is a big block on EV roll out I'd suggest.

peter king ● 162d6 Comments ● 160d

Council funding to be redirected from England’s rich areas to most deprived

Given that my street hasn't been swept for almost a year, the local roads have all the drains blocked with leaves and my local park is a crumbling disgrace, you would hope that Ealing's council tax will not be affected - https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/nov/28/council-funding-redirected-rich-areas-most-deprived-england-local-government

peter king ● 173d6 Comments ● 160d

LLoyds Bank

I have just been informed that the Lloyds Bank in Ealing Broadway will be closing in the first part of next year and relocating to a unit in the Broadway Centre. Hope the old premises won't be another chicken shop!

Pat Kingham ● 166d14 Comments ● 163d

Grayson Perry Exhibition - final two weeks

The exhibition of Grayson Perry's tapestries based on 'A Rake's Progress by Hogarth (the artist named after a roundabout), and depicting class and status in the 21st Century is nearing its end at Pitzhanger Manor, Walpole Park. See it while you can.I went today, and Ealing residents can go for as little as £1 on Sundays between 10am and 12pm. It was very popular, despite the weather.Enjoy! Then let us know what you think...Have a good week.Dominik

Dominik Klimowski ● 177d4 Comments ● 165d

Stirling Road recycling centre

It’s over a year since Ealing council made a grand announcement about the Stirling Road site being reopened as a reuse and recycling hub. Yet as of this morning the site remains empty, barricaded and bereft of any activity.Has the council given up on this grand plan?

Simon Hayes ● 190d42 Comments ● 165d

Donate winter coats, christmas jumpers and books this winter

Hello  Ealing!Please note: Due to the expected poor weather conditions this weekend, The Acton Market Reduce and Recycle Hub and Community Christmas event will be relocating to St Mary's Acton, The Mount, High St, London W3 9NW, on Saturday, 7th October.We wont let the weather stop us!Join us inside the church for all the planned Christmas activities and entertainment we opening at the later time of 11.30am and closing with some fun at 3.30pm👩‍🎤Entertainment:11:30 AM - Ealing Rock Choir1:00 PM - The West London Jazz Collective3:30 PM - Elevate Arts☃Christmas Recycling Activities:🎅🏾Christmas Jumper Swap: Swap your unwanted festive jumper for a new-to-you one! No donation necessary, one jumper per person.🧤Winter Coat & Accessories Collection: Donate your unwanted winter coats and accessories (hats, gloves, scarves, jumpers) to help those in need and homeless this Christmas.🍐Donate to Ealing Foodbank: Bring food donations to help those in our community facing hunger. For suggestions, see the December shopping list: https://ealing.foodbank.org.uk/♻Recycle your unwanted clothes and support Traid.♻Recycle small electrical items, also supporting Traid's work.🙏Learn to Repair your Clothes with Ealing Repair Cafe.📚Join the Book Swap: Bring books to swap or pick up some new reads! We'll also have wrapped mystery books for gifting.🌍Campaign for Change with Ealing Friends of the Earth: Learn about local issues and campaigns concerning air pollution, climate change, nature, and biodiversity.🏠Find Out More on Your Town, Your Voice: Participate in Ealing Council's vote for priorities on local community projects.Plus for the families: Get a chance to see inside an emergency vehicle!🚔Metropolitan police vehicle🚒Fire engine (on display unless needed for an emergency)

Zahra Shah ● 166d1 Comments ● 165d

Ealing Project: future in doubt

The company behind the cinema has gone bust.It's hard to know what this means for the cinema, though. The Riverside Studios went into liquidation some years ago but has carried on trading as if nothing had happened.

Susan Kelly ● 225d21 Comments ● 166d

Do you have a spare room?

If you have a spare room in London, want to earn rental income and want to support newly granted refugees, this is your chance! By becoming a Resident Landlord, you’ll provide a safe, stable room and help newly granted refugees rebuild their lives. You can earn up to £7,500 tax-free per year, and the charity Housing Justice will support you every step of the way. Learn more about how you can join this life-changing project and make an impact today! https://housingjustice.org.uk/refugee-lodgings We have provided over 800 nights of safe accommodation since March 2024. To hear about some of the positive stories from the project, please see our blog: https://housingjustice.org.uk/blogs/2024/refugee-lodgings-aGet involved today and make a difference!

Joe Rinvolucri ● 169d0 Comments ● 169d

CPZ ‘consultation’

Today I received a copy of a document from the Council claiming to be a consultation on extending CPZ operating hours where they currently operate one hour in the morning, one in the afternoon. Strangely, I’ve not heard anyone in my street complain that the operating hours are too short. The document claims there is ‘high parking stress’ in the area. It asks for responses online. I’ve given mine. The online form gives the game away in part; this is part of the Council’s plans for net zero by 2030, ie make it harder for people to drive anywhere. The most dishonest part of the consultation is the options offered to select: 8am-8pm, 8am-6pm or ‘other’. There is no option to retain the current hours unless you write that in the ‘other’ box. Anyone wanting to give their views can do so at www.ealing.gov.uk/consultation-extended-cpz by 11 December.

Vlod Barchuk ● 180d93 Comments ● 169d

Anyone want to start a book on how long these fools governing us will survive?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14120323/Petition-general-election-signatures-Labour-Budget-tax-Starmer.htmlA Million signatures is not to be sniffed at.

Rosco White ● 177d18 Comments ● 172d

Hopefully Khan's swansong

I can understand him wanting to pull one over on a Tory controlled council but this is daft even by his standards - https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/sadiq-khan-oxford-street-pedestrianisation-city-hall-westminster-b1195682.html. Presumably we are paying for the staff he's after through our council taxes? Meanwhile my road is still upswept after almost a year.

peter king ● 179d10 Comments ● 176d

Lammas Park Why all the misleading and Deception?

New posters have appeared in Lammas Park.  They still do not explain in any detail the rationale for the failed works.They still do not have a single name of anyone in charge.The pictures though are hugely misleading.They show " Flooding in and Ealing Street"The pictures are actually the flooding in and around two 'Speed tables" in Church Lane/ Culmington Road.In actuality the cause of the flooding dates back to the installation some years ago of the traffic calming speed tables - which serve their purpose.But the construction of these blocked the fall of rainwater to the drains and caused problems from day one.The road rises slightly after the Junctions of Elers Road and Lammas Park Gardens and the rainfall cannot soak away as the Drains are the wrong side.This has worsened because of two other factors. 1.The drains have not been routinely descaled for decades ( They used to be done every 10 years by a local company based in Derwent Yard ). I know this for sure as it was one of my first student summer jobs ) Simple rudimentary stuff but highly effective.2. The huge trees produce a lot of leaves which are not dealt with and full the galleys and rot and again block water flow and drains up.  This is a problem locally around the parks.The roots have disturbed the level flows of the gullies. Again something that form time to time is easily remedied.Does it really take huge earthworks to remedy a lack of basic urban maintenance?Why use misleading pictures with the very cause in the pictures? Water unable to reach the drainsThe third Picture shows a flooded western end of the park.  This was in winter and after a very long dry period.  A very heavy rainstorm caused this and it was no more than water logged - just like a level playing field.  It took longer to drain away as it was much colder in that period.Theres used to be a slightly boggy area no more than a few metres in diameter near there that was down to a leak from an inspection chamber.Fact is Lammas Park has had minimal maintenance since the 1960s. Always the poor relation to Walpole Park which was looked after really well. Lammas Park has lost a lot of it's once equally good amenities to free and open access to all, but it at least remained a very safe park for children to play in,  be it sport or the swings or the long gone adventure playground.That is no longer even a consideration. Boggy Water and Playground? Irritant fauna and biting insects?  Why do you think Victorian Parks were created? Especially when surrounded by open meadows?  Because they were made to be safe and healthy places.With this bird brained scheme which has no evidence of proper risk or impact assessments is frankly, shameful and those behind it ought to be made accountable.But putting pictures with misleading captions is stooping to the level of regimes that this nation fought to quell. Tell the truth. And explain everything properly.  And produce the independent risk assessments.

Raymond Havelock ● 181d14 Comments ● 177d

Law and communication now mere corpses in West Ealing

I attended a gathering in Kingsdown Methodist Church tonight. It was difficult if not impossible to discover what the proposals were for altering roads to the west of Northfield Ave. Of course I wasn't invitedalthough I have driven, walked and cycled through those roads for over 40 years. The law quite clearly says that "all affected should be consulted". Strangely the law also says that consultation should "begin at the formative stage". For those of us who make decisions on collected data, none seemed to be available here. Why didn't the senior Councillor present understand this? This shambles of a presentatation would have failed an Ofstead Inspection. What poor value we get from our Council Tax! Special measures and rebates come to mind.

Arthur Breens ● 187d32 Comments ● 180d

Ealing Film Festival 25-30 November

Dear neighbours,The Ealing Film Festival is in its fifth year, and takes place from Monday 25th - Saturday 30th November.The event is split over various venues: Ealing Picturehouse cinema, Ealing Project, ActOne cinema in Acton, and Pitzhanger Manor. Each day is dedicated to a different category, with a selection of films shown on the final day.Full disclosure: A short film of mine is selected this year, in the Horror/Suspense category, and I had one in the Homegrown category in its inaugural year, 2020. There are a number of categories, so you can choose what may be more your cup of tea, or just come along and be surprised.I work with young people, and people with various needs and experiences, and it is illuminating to see these topics addressed in some of the films each year. Last year I went to the 'Student Films' screening, which was very enjoyable, and impressive, and I plan to see the student films again this year, but there is such a varied selection that I'm sure there will be something for everyone.Ealing has been a traditional home of film, most notably thanks to Ealing Studios, but also more recently the Met Film School (you may sometimes spot film students shooting in the parks and on the streets around the borough). It is great to have this festival, which is growing steadily, and attracting films from all around the world. Over 100 films will be shown this year.If you'd like more details, visit https://ealingfilmfestival.com/schedule-and-tickets/Spread the word!Hope to see you there,Best wishes,Dominik

Dominik Klimowski ● 185d1 Comments ● 180d

Ealing half marathon

As an ex-marathon runner myself, I feel sorry for those competing tomorrow given the state of Ealing's roads. Walking part of the route I saw leaves/rubbish on pavements and in curbs which will wash down into the drains if the expected heavy rain happens. Add in an abandoned car near Montpelier Park and the picture is another indictment of the council's further slip from Queen of the Suburbs to Stig of the Dump. Shameful

peter king ● 234d8 Comments ● 182d

Garden waste

I know that this topic was discussed earlier this year, but now the cut off time is upon us I think it might be worth some further campaigning about the absurdity of stopping garden waste collection at this time.  My garden is full of plants which are only just starting to die off - even a large beech tree is only partly changing colour.  I would say there is at least a month of substantial garden waste to come.  Anyone who thinks that there is no need for garden waste collection at this time of year not only doesn't have a garden - they are also blind because a walk along any street will give ample evidence of plants on their way out but not yet gone.  

Timothy Blake ● 187d13 Comments ● 183d

Can we cease the vindictiveness in 2024?

How would I summarise this forum over the last year? It is a platform to provide an opinion, in turn triggering an alternative view, which spills into arguments, outright provocation, puerile behaviour, narcissism, repetitive vindictiveness and stubbornness. Not necessarily in that order. What words could I have included?Will any of this change at all in 2024? If so, how? Do people want this to change? Are people willing to be kind and considerate towards each other in 2024? Merry xmas and happy new year to you all.

Ben Owen ● 512d14 Comments ● 183d

The Forrester Mystery: Two R's Still Missing, Two Labour Politicians In!

The recently reopened Forester pub in Ealing has raised a few eyebrows, and not just because of its swanky new makeover. Eagle-eyed locals have noticed a continued ommission, the pub's traditional name, "The Forrester" with two R's, continues to be omitted in favour of a single R "Forester" - hardly the nod to its historic past that the owner Fuller Smith and Turner emphasizes.Now, some might say it's just a minor detail, a typo perhaps. But for those in the know, the double R held significance. It was a nod to the pub's rich history, a symbol of its long-standing presence in the community. So why the change? Adding to the intrigue is the involvement of two prominent Labour figures: Dr Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing, and Mayor Hitesh Tailor. Both have been spotted endorsing and even opening the pub, which is owned by Fuller Smith and Turner, a company traditionally associated with the Conservative Party. This has left many scratching their heads. Why would Labour politicians support a business owned by their political rivals? Is this a sign of changing times, a blurring of party lines? Or is there something more to this story?

Eric Lipowski ● 387d5 Comments ● 185d

BBC Antiques Roadshow, Walpole Park.

An episode was filmed last May, Pitzhanger Manor.Does anybody know the episode's future transmission date? Thanks.

Tony Heath ● 303d7 Comments ● 185d

TONIGHT -> -> Hewsons Bookshop – BRENTFORD - Bees United Brentford FC – An author’s evening – 6.30pm

Pop over to Hewsons at 6.30pm today!Support your local independent bookshopsBees United presents, Jonathan Burchill, author of A Pub on Each Corner.Jonathan shares lots about the history of the Bees at Griffin Park.Stats, facts, fun and chat with a glass and  refreshments!Bees United - Unique as the only Premier League, fans group with a seat on the board of its club.You can join us! https://www.beesunited.org.uk/

Don Tanswell ● 187d2 Comments ● 186d

Hewsons Bookshop – Bees United Brentford FC – An author’s evening – 6.30pm Thursday 14th

Pop over to Hewsons, Brentford at 6.30pm on Thursday!Bees United presents, Jonathan Burchill, author of A Pub on Each Corner, presenting lots about the history of the Bees at Griffin Park.Stats, facts, fun and chat with refreshments!

Don Tanswell ● 190d3 Comments ● 186d

whats Happening to Tiramisu Cafe??

there's a sign up in window, saying "closed until further notice"Ive heard a rumour that its up for sale!Where will we get the best Tiramisu in W. London??

Nick Robinson ● 267d7 Comments ● 187d

My pack of JEMY Polish Soup contained a dead mouse!

May the Community please be warned that the JEMÝ brand of Polish Soups,currently for sale of many Polski establishments, should be removed from shelves.Once you have consumed the contents of these packs ...via the plastic cap on top ... and then break the pack for recycling ...you.may be in for a surprise.I discovered a dead tiny mouse at the bottom of my pack, together with some other debris.Full story on the Forum of chiswickw4.comThe Polish Factory has a problemand this incident will be bad news for them.

Jim Lawes ● 193d8 Comments ● 187d

Train performance data to be displayed at stations under Labour plans

Given the way the little donut Khan has given away millions of our money to his union mates, can we hope that the Underground is included - https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/nov/11/train-performance-data-to-be-displayed-at-stations-under-labour-plans

peter king ● 190d2 Comments ● 189d

Perivale Park Golf Course to be closed by the council.

Shocking News.A few days ago committee members of Perivale Park Golf Club (PPGC) were informed by the council that the century-old course would be closed early in 2024 to be integrated into Brent River Park complex. Essentially the area will be 're-wilded'. You can see immediately why the council might find this cost saving extremely attractive. But Perivale Park is no white elephant: it is a very popular, friendly and affordable municipal course. You can see all races, ages and abilities whacking their way around its nine holes, getting a bit of very affordable exercise. For many, particularly elderly players, it is a vital  part of their lives and well-being. There is nothing else locally to compare.  More soon: this will do for now as a FYI. PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION TO SAVE THIS COURSE. And share it far and wide.https://www.change.org/p/save-perivale-park-golf-club

Mike Paterson ● 621d37 Comments ● 191d

Good to see this forum going strong...

Hey all! I used to be an active member on this group until I swapped Hanwell for East Herts just over 10 years ago. I'm glad to see this forum is still going strong and a few names from when I used to be a regular are still fighting the good fight. Sadly, I don't get to return to West London as much as I would like, but when I do I am always shocked at the speed and scale of change - not always for the better in my opinion. There seems to have been a special on high-rise apartments for sure!Seeing some of the classic local businesses now a thing of the past is such a shame but the one change that really sticks in my throat is the closure of Perivale Park golf course. Back in the early 1980's that facility launched my love affair with the game of golf, as it has done for likely thousands more people in the borough. It was a cheap facility that gave access to the game and was much loved by its regulars. I believe (please correct if wrong) the rationale to shut PPGC was to make more public park space available to the community by rewilding it. The cynic in my believes the real reason for closure was that Ealing Council were over-budget and some number cruncher believed they can save a few quid by removing the need to maintain the facility. I could be wrong.Anyhow, best to you all. I check in from time to time to 'feel the pulse' and do enjoy reading a lot of the posts and comments.

Guy Edema ● 211d4 Comments ● 193d

Tesco Express Northfields

Closed down, after all these years.

Susan Kelly ● 217d16 Comments ● 194d

We have a problem Houston!

Predictably, the mindless zealots currently ruining, sorry, running our country didn't even have the smarts to hedge their bets and just HAD to get involved, so now they (we!) have to contend with dealing with a Trump led America.Surely even you Labour diehards out there have to now admit defeat and that this crock are an unmitigated cesspool of disaster?

Rosco White ● 195d7 Comments ● 195d

The shambles that is Ealing Broadway station

It was worked on for months and must have cost us a pretty penny - https://www.msn.com/en-gb/cars/news/new-measures-at-elizabeth-line-station-because-of-significant-gap-between-trains-and-platform/ar-AA1sVx7A?ocid=msedgntp&pc=HCTS&cvid=ce4038dcc4d6428392fc2b82c6710983&ei=51.

peter king ● 207d32 Comments ● 196d

Ongoing Palestinian protests in central London

I hadn't realised that they are still happening fully for some 13 months after the massacres on October 7th last year. My son was attempting to get to Mecca (Loftus Road in W.12) using the dreadful SE Trains and his cycle. He arrived late as ever and said that he couldn't use one of the  Thames bridges he wanted to due to the usual motley collection of antisemites that turn up every week to vilify jews who were born here and who now feel afraid on our streets thanks in part to the lack of action by the police '' service''. Given the cost to us tax payers of the police ''presence'', it's surely time to say enough is enough as Israel isn't going to change its mind by rent a mob bunging up our streets. Grow a pair Keir/Khan and put a stop to this action please.

peter king ● 198d3 Comments ● 197d

Car Insurance

I just opened a letter for renewing my car insurance. Currently I've been paying £355. For next year they want £920! Have others been quoted similarly?I'm 80 and lost my wife a year ago. I've been driving for 63 years. I got 3 points earlier this year for driving at 24mph on the Uxbridge Road.If I shop around will I get similar quotes? Any comments anyone?

Eric Alan Leach ● 201d19 Comments ● 197d

Martin Lewis calls for the 880,000 people missing out on Winter Fuel Payments to act now

https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/martin-lewis-calls-880000-people-33598268

Philippa Bond ● 256d37 Comments ● 199d

Well, Japan has it right.

Already with some of the most rigidly enforced speeding and traffic violation laws they have now extended these to cyclists. About time and what a shame that we haven't followed already.https://www-bbc-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqd2e1j132o.amp?amp_gsa=1&_js_v=a9&usqp=mq331AQIUAKwASCAAgM%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17304670331380&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.com%2Fnews%2Farticles%2Fcpqd2e1j132o

N V Brooks ● 200d0 Comments ● 200d

Rucksack Drayton Green

Found a rucksack with tablet/computer in.No idea if it’s useless or what to do with it (can information be retrieved) 🤷‍♀️I will take it to a police station, assuming there’s no long wait.Any suggestions welcome?

Peter Yale ● 202d0 Comments ● 202d

The Conservatives were a circus, but we have proper clowns now.

These absolute amateurs playing at Student Politics haven't got a clue about the serious consequences of their Idiot Ideologies and they'll wreck Britain.Given the background of many of them I wouldn't be surprised they're taking advice straight from Putin.Roll on 30th where they can further prove their ignorance and incompetence beyond doubt.I think most of us despair, besides being acutely worried and afraid.VERY dark times are ahead under these inept losers.All IMHO of course.   😨

Rosco White ● 210d27 Comments ● 204d

Lammas park swimming/fishing lakes

i see that the pools are 1/2 full, , the sides are steep, and they are next to the children’s playground….I presume they will remain fenced off???

Nick Robinson ● 222d15 Comments ● 207d

City Radio

We had some help in fixing a lamp which just needed a spring to put it   back into use.  It is a shame that this will be closing at the end of the month - and I wish I had realised earlier that it would be useful for much more than just radios!  My electricals/things to fix box has still got quite a few things needing some TLC.

Philippa Bond ● 217d7 Comments ● 207d

By-election predictions

Going simply on the amount of campaigning activity it looks like the Lib Dems and the Conservatives have written off South Acton and Northolt Mandeville and are focusing exclusively on Hanger Hill. I'd assume the Lib Dems were favourites before yesterday and more so since James Cleverly failed to make the last two in the leadership contest. A heavy defeat for the Tories would be existential for them in Ealing in my view. Are there really many Ealing based Conservatives who believe that leaving the ECHR is a sensible thing to do? The only rational choice for the few remaining councillors who don't agree with the road their party is going for is to team up with the Lib Dems to form a more effective opposition to Labour.

Gordon Southwell ● 222d14 Comments ● 209d

As inflation falls below 2%

The tube unions have rejected an offer of 4.9% as being too low. Shame Britain's Got Talent has finished as I was looking forward to the little donut delving into his sofa again to find a few loose £ms down the side to pay off his union buddies.

peter king ● 216d3 Comments ● 213d

The Overground is under staffed

Amazing at a time when the little donut is near to re-naming the lines for a cool £6.3m of our money in his latest virtue signalling move. PC over safety anyone?

peter king ● 218d7 Comments ● 217d

Joys of traveling & using a Mobility scooter or Wheelchair.

I live in Ealing. I own a Wheelchair accessible vehicle. (WAV),  an Electric Mobility scooter which is road taxed & has a number plate, an Electric Wheelchair, and Manual wheelchair.Between these I try & get around.I use the Electric Mobility scooter with the manual wheelchair on the back for longer distances. Because it is Taxed & registered as a road vehicle. (Max 8 MPH) I cannot use Pavements, cycle or bus lanes.If I use say the Uxbridge road Hanwell to Ealing Broadway, I get Buses, manual & powered cycles. And some time mostly L plated scooters. passing on my left. Plus, Cars, lorries, and yes, I also get manual & powered cycles, & scooters. Overtaking me even if there is not enough room. Unlike a cycles other vehicles do not need to give me 2 Meter safe clearance. Very frightening at times.The Electric folding Wheelchair for shorter distances, (5 Mile there & back plus shopping when you get there).List of issues:Poor Quality of the Pavements.Width of Pavements in mostly local side roads.Tree foliage not being cut back a lower levels.House foliage blocking some or all the Pavement area.Personal working & blocking Pavements with no save way round them.Poor Quality of Drop Kerbs, or no Drop Kerbs.Blocking of Drop Kerbs by vehicles & hired cycles.Which means I must go out into the road. Most wheelchairs do not have lights.There are times when I just give up & go home.Wheelchair accessible vehicle. (WAV) (With Blue Badge)I use this to get closer to the shops, sometimes short distances, because of the above & so that my career can come with me to help me.But also, to get to Hospitals, & shops, where I may need to use a manual folding wheelchair. The manual wheelchair is smaller than the Electric Wheelchair.All Wheelchairs.Have a look round & see how many shops of all types plus cafes & restaurants where a wheelchair cannot access.Or if you are Lucky to find one. There is very little room inside so need to fold the wheelchair or to be told there is not enough room & not to come in.

Peter Jones ● 222d9 Comments ● 218d

Boston Road Conversion to Cycle Track

Over a mile of Boston Road and Lower Boston Road in Hanwell is to be made cycle friendly.140 car parking spaces will be lost. There will be some dedicated cycle lanes and some space to be shared by pedestrians and manual and motorised cycles and scooters. You can view the proposed changes and take part in a short online public consultation exercise at:www.ealing.gov.uk/boston-road-improvementsYou can also send free form comments to:highwayservices@ealing.gov.ukI estimate the cost of these changes to be over £1 million. No evidence is presented to even predict whether these changes will encourage more cycle journeys. The Council is encouraging car owners to park their cars in their driveways (converted front gardens).

Eric Alan Leach ● 230d122 Comments ● 221d

Gurnell Swimming Pool

New plans at 241706OUTR3 on the Councils web site have been expertly criticised on 'Ealing Today' by the Brent River & Canal Society (BR&CS).The issue of the underground car park is quite farcical. The Council admits that the 32+ acre development site's underground car park could flood (from the River Brent close by). A sudden flood would cause £100,000s of damage. Insurance cover for this might be problematic.However as I understand it, if a car park is built on then TfL deem the site to be car-free and no replacement car park - surface, on top of the towers or underground - would be acceptable. Comments on the planning application (241706OUTR3) can be submitted until 26 June 2024. Major issues are building on Metropolitan Open Land and in the River Brent flood plain. Also residential tower blocks are unacceptable in such a low rise residential area.

Eric Alan Leach ● 334d6 Comments ● 223d

The Yanks, like we did, face a horrible choice - Frying Pan or Fire?

Doing a Ms Bond here ............https://x.com/i/status/1842307454870098194Why is the West SO afflicted with so many highly unpalatable politicians completely lacking in statemanship, let alone honesty, integrity, reliability, trustworthiness, etc?Australia is equally afflicted with garbage choices.Interesting that many of these Western countries only have two Parties to choose from, that's a major problem right there for a start.Putin, China and North Korea are laughing, they just have to sit back whilst the West destroys itself.

Rosco White ● 227d1 Comments ● 227d

Full of his own importance

Keep on digging boys, you've been sussed - https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/taylor-swift-tickets-sadiq-khan-keir-starmer-vip-freebies-wembley-b1185762.html

peter king ● 229d2 Comments ● 228d

Regional Park

Lots of chat about this subject but no information as to land ownership or governance of this Regional Park. Will the land be disposed of to a charity/quango-type body and be run as events space like Gunnersbury Park?I submitted a Freedom Of Information request to Ealing Council about this topic. The deadline for responding is today. As of 5pm today - no response.

Eric Alan Leach ● 244d10 Comments ● 230d

Traffic Violation Longfield Road/ New Broadway

This is just LTN by stealth by this Ealing Council. They must have better things to do than to 'generate' revenue by these unnecessary means. They even try to confuse and throw in the 'trump' card oof safety; but what research and evidence? Clearly the safest thing would be NOT to drive at all and I guess this is what the Ealing council are trying to force the public to do, in favour of Cyclists and LTNs. it makes my blood boil. It's terrible they can just erect these signs without proper consultation and evidence acquisition and discussion. I will NOT be voting Labour in the local elections.

Hasnat Ahmed ● 244d39 Comments ● 235d

'Around Ealing' - Councillor Names and Contact Details Deleted

In the current 'Around Ealing' - 'Schools Special' there are no listings of Councillors names, Wards, email addresses or telephone numbers. The Council's promotional magazine has in in all previous issues (going back years) provided this info - of great use for the 1,000s of rate payers with no internet skills or facility.One can only conclude that the Council doesn't want to make it easy to contact Councillors. It would presumably rather use the pages to contain paid advertisements.

Eric Alan Leach ● 247d17 Comments ● 237d

Local elections coming up on 10th October

Two Hard Labour and one Tory seat up for grabs on Thursday 10th October.Previous incumbents are now in the House of Commons - https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/meet-candidates-vying-votes-three-29945689. A chance to reduce the council's majority so don't waste it!

peter king ● 246d3 Comments ● 238d

Pitshanger Park

Does anyone know what is happening in Pitshanger Park. On Friday in the car park there were a number of police cars and I was told that someone had hanged themselves. Does anyone know what happened?

Peter Tolhust ● 254d12 Comments ● 240d

The UK Diplomat and jounalist Peter Jay. RIP

Reading his shortened Obituaryon a BBC website today ...I recall that he once lived in Ealing (in the 1970s ?) on Carlton Road ... just off Castlebar Roadin a chocolate coloured house.Isn't that so?

Jim Lawes ● 240d0 Comments ● 240d

Ealing Council HMO Licensing Dept.

Hi,Has anyone had dealings with the HMO Licensing department regarding anti social behaviour of tenants? Was it resolved or not?From what I understand now they have reduced staff working onsite.Thanks,

Ana Strachan ● 272d2 Comments ● 241d

Petition for Winter Fuel Payment

I found this in chiswickw4.com:The good people at Age UK,have a petition on their website to sign for all those borderline, vulnerable older people who are about to lose this payment.So, if you are borderline and not eligible for Pension credit,Or have a loved one who is about to lose this payment.Or even some one with a Heart of Gold.Please sign and pass on the word.Thank you.https://www.ageuk.org.uk/our-impact/campaigning/save-the-winter-fuel-payment/

Marlene Plimley ● 286d22 Comments ● 242d

1158 vote

There’s something drastically wrong when this is the total number of votes cast .Perhaps it’s their lieing, cheating, fiddling ways.They’re impossible to contact or just plain rude ignoring.Only my opinion

Peter Yale ● 242d0 Comments ● 242d

Resident road closure information about the Ealing Half Marathon 2024

Information about the upcoming Ealing Half Marathon 2024 for local residents. The event takes place on Sunday 29th September with road closure across the borough starting at 6am outside Lammas Park. The race village & finish will be in Walpole Park again this year. Full details on road closures can be found on our website https://www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/resident-information/.Please share with your neighbours and anyone with meals on wheels, appointments etc on that day. If you have any questions, you can email us at info@ealinghalfmarathon.com and well be happy to help. Thank you to all Ealing residents for their superb support each year!!

Ealing Half Marathon ● 278d1 Comments ● 243d

Man crashes car in Greenford and runs away

Apologies but I don't know exactly when this occurred but I believe it is very recent.
A guy crashes a car and runs away

Happened in the UB6 area.. pic.twitter.com/mvQC4ajbS3— London & UK Street News (@CrimeLdn) September 16, 2024

Gordon Southwell ● 246d5 Comments ● 244d

Will LBE Labour now stop bleating "It's the Tory Cuts!", and stop spaffing our money?!

I doubt it, it's SO convenient to ALWAYS be someone else's fault, and not their own woke political posturing and Gross Incompetence..........."Hammersmith and Fulham Council has revealed it spent £0.3 million less in 2023/24 than expected despite challenges including inflation and uncertainty over Government funding."The West London council which managed to save more than it spent despite ‘challenges’The cabinet member for finance and reform said the council achieved the surplus at a time most local authorities are experiencing a ‘difficult’ timeHammersmith and Fulham Council has revealed it spent £0.3 million less in 2023/24 than expected despite challenges including inflation and uncertainty over Government funding. The local authority said the budget surplus has been achieved while simultaneously preserving front-line services and boosting investment in areas from fly tipping to temporary accommodation.The funds have been added to the council’s general balances. The surplus was revealed in the council’s Provisional Revenue Outturn Report 2023/24, presented to Cabinet last week, in which details were provided on both its General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for the last year.Cllr Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, said while councils across the country are experiencing a ‘difficult’ time, residents in Hammersmith and Fulham can be reassured the local authority is managing its finances in a ‘prudent and sensible way’.READ MORE: London council expects huge drop in money made from parking largely due to clean air schemesThe council had previously projected an overspend of £1.5m for the financial year for its General Fund, for which the £0.3m surplus was recorded. The position is still subject to audit, with council officers noting the review of the balance sheet ‘continues’.According to the report, the council, similar to many others, recorded higher than anticipated costs in areas including housing, providing specialist support and independent living, and the public realm. Increasing demand for temporary bed and breakfast accommodation in particular affected a departmental division labelled ‘housing solutions’, which reported an overspend of £2.3m.'Uncertainty around levels of government funding'Council officers wrote: “The strategic operating environment in 2023/24 was very challenging with demographic, legislative, macro-economic pressures not experienced for a long time. There continues to be cost pressures arising from increasing demand, rising inflation and acuity of need."These pressures have been experienced across statutory services in Adult Social Care, Housing Solutions (temporary accommodation) and Children’s Services. This has been worsened by the needs of an ageing population and the ongoing cost of living crisis. This is against a backdrop of uncertainty around levels of government funding and continuing annual grant settlements that restricts financial planning and resilience.”Positive variances were however recorded in a number of areas, with underspends noted for divisions such as children’s commissioning, and greater income than anticipated from planning and returns from cash balances, among other highlights.'We were able to do this while protecting frontline services'Commenting on the budget surplus at last week’s meeting, Cllr Ree told his fellow Cabinet members: “We were able to do all this whilst protecting frontline services, avoiding cuts to the services that residents rely on, as well as maintaining all of those things that make Hammersmith and Fulham such a unique borough to live in, things like free adult social care, things like free meals for school children, things like the law enforcement team and our comprehensive council tax support system.”In a council newsletter, Cllr Ree wrote the surplus was achieved against the backdrop of 14 years of Government austerity, ‘which saw our funding cut by 54 per cent in real terms’.“The budget surplus means that we are adding to our reserves, putting money aside for a rainy day, at a time when most councils are using theirs to balance the books,” he added.Get the biggest stories from around London straight to your inbox. Sign up to MyLondon's The 12 HERE for the 12 biggest stories each day.SOURCE:     https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/west-london-council-managed-save-29943257?ruid=658bb50f-471b-4eae-82c4-7055b920f5ae

Rosco White ● 246d0 Comments ● 246d

Grenfell Anniversary. / Cellotex (Ealing)

I recall the Cellotex Company, many years ago, having their offices in South Ealing Road from where promotional literature for their products were mailed all over the UK.Their products have been mentioned many times in the Inquiry into the disasterous fire.I have wondered whether any local people worked for them and have kept quiet

Jim Lawes ● 1070d10 Comments ● 247d

Dimitri Coutya

Congratulations to former St. Benedict's pupil and nowOLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST in the Men's Category 'B' FoilDIMITRI COUTYAWell done young sir!!!

N V Brooks ● 258d2 Comments ● 251d

Building Failures

Radio 5 Live - shortage of skills, training, retaining and inspecting.  The problems of the building industry and the lack of investment in quality.

Philippa Bond ● 265d16 Comments ● 256d

Ealing Common Station and Little Common - Begging and drugs

Why are Ealing Council and Ealing Police allowing Begging at the station and and open drug buying, selling and taking on Leopold Road/Ealing Common. Why are the three local Councillors staying silent on the matter? This is despite numerous reports of incidents over several  months.

Kevin McGrath ● 320d41 Comments ● 256d

Building on Flood Plains

I see that The Insurance Companies are voicing disquiet at the Governments insistance on building more homes in areas of natural flooding. Apparently 123 schemes have been approved, madness? in denial or what?

Colin Vaughan ● 6305d15 Comments ● 257d

ZIP OYSTER CARD

Found in grass on loop of Pitshanger ParkName of Anne Marie _ _ _ _ _Can drop off locally or will leave in Cafe Berry (Pitshanger Pk) tomorrow

Peter Yale ● 258d0 Comments ● 258d

Question re a street name

I noticed whilst in Ealing Broadway this morning that the walk through from the Uxbridge Road (next to the new cinema/cafe) leading to Mattock Lane no longer has a name. I thought it was called Barnes Pikle or something similar. I have no idea what that means but it sticks in my memory. Does anyone have any ideas? Thanks.

Pat Kingham ● 262d8 Comments ● 260d

Cycling: it's never been more relevant

https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/transport/cycling-may-be-old--but-it-s-never-been-more-relevant--?fbclid=IwY2xjawEvx21leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHdhwOWy1GL4Q2e6K9GlyzlF3H9VupKAxuLYFupwkw71ce2nYvMEJVMHMcg_aem__RpCMUaj__KHozjBAOqyiw&sfnsn=scwspwaThe article explains the answer to the question 'why did all UN member states vote for a World Bike Day?'

Ben Owen ● 274d112 Comments ● 260d

The Conde Nast Guide to Ealing

Ealing isn't often featured as a tourist destination but I though this guide in the Conde Nast Traveller showed the area in a great light and successfully identified some of the best venues in the area.https://www.cntraveller.com/article/ealing-guide

Tricia Arbuthnot ● 264d10 Comments ● 260d

Planning Magazine rates Ealing Planning as London's best

No - it's not an April Fools stunt.One of the more unlikely achievements - I might compare it to:+ President Putin winning the Nobel Peace Prize+ Hanwell Town winning the FA Cup+ My cat Larry learning to speak Finnish..... Were any of contributors to/readers of this Forum asked by 'Planning' magazine for their opinions on Ealing's Planning department?Ealing Planning Department's new draft Local Plan aims for 41,000 new homes to be built in Ealing by 2039. If and when occupied it will mean  82,000 new residents (living mostly in 10+ storey tower blocks).Is this the plan Ealing residents want?

Eric Alan Leach ● 270d5 Comments ● 263d

Lib Dems policy on EV charge points

Am I misreading the Lib Dems policy on EV charge points in the borough (see article currently on front page)? From what they say they appear to be advocating greater subsidy to fund more stations and cheaper charging rates. This would effectively be a wealth transfer to a group of people (EV owners) who, on average are significantly more wealthy than the average for the borough. The cheapest and easiest way to boost EV usage would be to encourage safe cross pavement charging for people without front drive space.

Gordon Southwell ● 272d12 Comments ● 264d

Playgrounds in Lamas Park

Does anyone know who I can contact about the state of the playgrounds in Lamas park? Everything is falling apart with no repairs for years, but we do have a new parkour area (not sure who is going to repair that when it inevitably breaks, or what the point is) and a concrete memorial. In a children's playground. No disrespect to the lady and her family but a concrete memorial with sharp edges and steps in a children's playground seems a strange idea.  I don't want any political advice. Just who I can contact. The parks department? My local councillor? Who even is that for Lamas? Thanks for any advice.

Anna Henderson ● 315d10 Comments ● 265d

Needing to reduce your energy costs?

https://actforealing.org/2024/08/15/low-energy-homes-technology-event-with-southall-transition/Learning more about what can be done could help you.  This one is being held on Friday 30th August.We need more initiatives like this so we can compare what people have done and are doing to make our oldest and leakiest homes in Europe better to live in safely ie warmer when it is cold cooler when it is hot without causing condensation that causes timbers to rot and mould that causes respiratory problems (See Awaab's Law) and reduce energy costs.

Philippa Bond ● 265d0 Comments ● 265d

The BRENTFORD FESTIVAL in Blondin Park ( ?)

This wonderful Brentford Festivalis normally held on the first Sunday in September and has always been very well organised by Linda Massey and her team of volunteers.The date will be soon upon us.Yet no recent publicity Is it to happen?News sought!

Jim Lawes ● 273d5 Comments ● 266d

Recommendations please for a Gas Central Heating Engineer who also knows the electrics?

I have no power to my boiler/CH System so figure I would ask you good people for your recommendations for honest, reputable ACS qualified Gas Engineers who also know the electrical side of Central Heating systems, the controls etc. (I am about to check the fuse but that will be my lot.)There hasn't been such a posting on here for a while it seems so the results will be helpful to all for future reference, particularly of course with winter coming.I've done a Plumbing Course and can competently tackle most things HW/CH, but Gas and Electrics are clearly best left to the Professionals!  I thank you.   😊

Rosco White ● 266d1 Comments ● 266d

Mind the gap

There was a report on BBC London about the large gap between the train and platform on the Lizzy Line at Ealing Broadway.   Is it my imagination or is it worse at Ealing Broadway that other local stations?  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckv7kge48z4o

Jo Smith ● 382d21 Comments ● 266d

'A bit of Ealing history set to vanish': long standing electronics shop goes on the market

We've all shopped here I'm sure but obviously not often enough - https://ealing.nub.news/news/local-news/a-bit-of-ealing-history-set-to-vanish-long-standing-electronics-shop-goes-on-the-market-238266

peter king ● 270d4 Comments ● 266d

Another chicken restaurant

Currently being fitted out at the top of Bond Street where the building society used to be. Given there's one on the opposite side of the road about 50 yards down as well as the one by M&S, do we really need another? Ealing Broadway is currently looking very tatty with no sign the clowns at Perceval House are looking to upgrade it. As Its the centre of some really rundown parts of the borough, it's not a great advertisement for the ex Queen of the Suburbs. Fortunately the Socialist numpties haven't started knocking down any more parts of the town centre to provide more offices, shops and ''affordable '' accommodation especially with Dickins Yard looking like a real white elephant. What a legacy they will leave us all.

peter king ● 271d4 Comments ● 268d

Labour in power - Ha, Ha, Ha Ha Ha Har Har.........

After all they accused the Conservatives of when Oh So Righteous Labour was in Opposition.Wottasurprise their antics are.ALL the Major Parties are complete & utter rotten carp, Wake Up People.

Rosco White ● 268d0 Comments ● 268d

Antiques Roadshow

Dig out your heirlooms! The Antiques Roadshow will be at Pitzhanger Manor on 19th May 2024. You need to apply for tickets for your planning go.

Jo Smith ● 464d4 Comments ● 269d

Is Sainsbury's West Ealing Heading for Closure?

Today we had none of the three lifts working at Sainsbury's West Ealing. The convenience of having 1st floor and 2nd floor car parking at the store is somewhat negated by no available lifts.Also the continued absence of human being manned check-outs appears to be turning some elderly shoppers away from the store.Maybe the redevelopment plans for the (expanded) site are moving towards implementation.

Eric Alan Leach ● 322d47 Comments ● 270d

Ealing Common ASB issues

PLEASE ATTEND Cuppa with a copperCome on down and have a cuppa with a copper at Starbucks on Uxbridge road, Ealing Common. 21/07/2024 12:00 - 14:00 Here you can share your concerns about the Ward and the local issues the ward is currently facing.

Kevin McGrath ● 305d6 Comments ● 271d

Remembering Gerry Tan (RIP) a local Forum hero.

Many readers and postersmay fondly remember Gerry Tanwho lived locally and who contributed so much to this Forum years ago.He was a gentleman.His style was not to contribute to critical debate but to initiatefriendly discussionsGerry organised FORUM MEET UPS tooboth in Ealing and Brentford.It was his birthday today.He had been born in 1932.A great man and an asset ...to ealingtoday.RIP Gerry.

Jim Lawes ● 273d3 Comments ● 272d

Winter Fuel Allowance - The Hypocrite Party doing what they do BEST - Being Hypocrites!

Oh Dear, only last May apparently .........https://x.com/i/status/1818273528355139768Awaiting a nuanced, informed and logical comment from Ms Bond et al.  😆The Conservatives are also undoubtedly untrustworthy, but a Party who consistently paints themselves as being more honest than the Tories and "For the working man" and all their other BS, just beggars belief fools still vote for them.

Rosco White ● 293d88 Comments ● 273d

Golden Dragon take away

Sad news in that the best Chinese take away for miles has now gone. Shop in Pitshanger Lane is up for rent. Have used it for years and never been disappointed. Anyone local know of a replacement they would recommend?

peter king ● 282d12 Comments ● 277d

Volunteers needed for the Ealing Half Marathon Sunday 29th September 2024

Are you free to help out and volunteer at Ealing Half Marathon 2024?You don’t have to be a runner to enjoy Ealing’s biggest event of the year. Each year, hundreds of volunteers get involved and have a great time making Ealing’s Half Marathon such a wonderful success for the runners, spectators and the Borough of Ealing alike. This has resulted in the event winning the accolade of the Number One Best Half Marathon three years in a row at The Running Awards!!Reasons to volunteer:Not only is it a great community event to take part in, but each registered volunteer who completes their role gets a breakfast roll, drink AND a free race place* for the following years event so it’s a great incentive.It’s a win-win! Get a feel-good day of volunteering AND a free place at EHM25.This year we’ll be putting together a volunteer team of almost 600 people, looking after the race village in Walpole Park and out on the roads of Ealing guiding the runners and helping local residents. It’s a fun & rewarding experience for all and we’d love you to get involved. You will need to be able to give between 4 to 6 hours on the day depending on where you are volunteering. The required start time for most volunteer areas will be 9:30am on Saturday and 07:30am on Sunday to allow for all the logistics on both days.This years dates are:Ealing Mini Mile Saturday 28th September 2024Ealing Half Marathon Sunday 29th September 2024Don’t forget to put us in your diary now!Register your details on our website and we’ll be in contact soon: https://www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/volunteer/Thank you in advance for your support! Sandra Ealing Half Marathon

Ealing Half Marathon ● 278d0 Comments ● 278d

Dangerous Deidre dodges questions...

.... on all manner of local issues.One bing that after 2 months of works local residents around Lammas Park have still not received any kind of proper information about the works in the park.The councillor to refer to is according to LBE one Ms Costigan. The same one standing for election as an MP.Given there are no flood issues in the area and only a few properties with flooding issues beside Lammas park which has been ongoing since the 1970s and relates to shallow sewers it transpires that none of these residents have had any communication or surveys or contact from Thames Water, The environment agency or London Borough of Ealing.  None can give any explanation or produce any form of risk assessment data to those residences most likely to be affected - those around the park. There is no risk assessment for the works impact either.No assessment of the impact of stagnant water and polluted water from animal faces right next to a children's playground and a toddler centre. Nothing on the propagation of biting insects like Horseflies now increasingly common in the locality. or the risk of mosquito and malarial varieties which are more likely given climate change and found already in some wetlands further north than here.No risk assessment on the shifting of 1000s of tones of earth and the risk to subsidence and ground water displacement to properties ( which has already affected some on the north east side ). The loss of 90 to 110 year old mature tree varieties. The buck is being passed all round and most are ducking the issue.  Key to that is the one who believes she is a fit an proper candidate to represent residents interests in such matters.The fact there is a complete wall of silence and a major project has been rushed through with nothing other than a glossy PR notice with a 35 year future illustration and no actual specific data and fact is very alarming.The closest off record disclosure is the real reason is to allow larger high rise developments to be enables within a 1 mile radius of Lammas Park.So will LBE and Co. come clean and be more open?Will Ms.Costigan MP be representing those who suffer the fallout of the shortcomings?Will council officers in charge actually be named?Hightly unlikely.

Raymond Havelock ● 323d25 Comments ● 280d

With Care -,Protests Tonight in Brentford and Southall

A heads up please be careful there are far right protests scheduled for Brentford tonight that are apparently intended to march up through to SouthallI am intrigued also by the News section o Ealing Today - why is there nothing mentioned about this, surely it is more important than the closure of a nightclub?

Marius Jablonka ● 286d18 Comments ● 281d

Thank you

To the cyclist riding the wrong way up Lower Boston Road this evening with whom I remonstrated, thank you for returning to spit at me through my open window it enabled me to capture your image beautifully on dash cam along with your saliva sample. I won't be doing anything but I'm pretty sure the police will. Thanks again.

N V Brooks ● 291d44 Comments ● 286d

Ealing Beer Festival 2024

Hi folks, Just a reminder that the Camra Ealing Beer Festival 2024 is on this week in Walpole Park, Mattock Lane from the 10th to 13th July stating at 12pm each day with Real Ales, Craft Beers, Ciders, Perries, Wines and Imported Beers including Live Music and Food Stalls

Simon Lee Swinn ● 315d7 Comments ● 287d

Haberdashery at Daniels, West Ealing

The lovely treasure trove of a haberdashery at the back of the Daniels furniture store on the Uxbridge Road had a wool sale on when I was there yesterday.Do go and have a look at all the craft supplies and bits and bobs there for all your mending needs and more before automatically going online to the bigger and far more impersonal www!It is called Lily Rose.https://www.lrwool-haberdashery.com/about-us/

Philippa Bond ● 305d9 Comments ● 287d

Shoplifters nicked.

Anyone else noticed the lack of information in the article on the homepage?No name,address or age of the convicted nor length of sentence.It's either poor journalism or deliberate imo.Either way,not impressed.I am sure local shopkeepers have been tearing their hair out over these two for a good while,isn't it fair to name and shame them?

Keith Iddon ● 293d10 Comments ● 292d

Shoplifters nicked.

Anyone else noticed the lack of information in the article on the homepage?No name,address or age of the convicted nor length of sentence.It's either poor journalism or deliberate imo.Either way,not impressed.

Keith Iddon ● 293d0 Comments ● 293d

RIP John Mayall

https://www.ealingclub.com/ealingclubhistory/

Philippa Bond ● 300d0 Comments ● 300d

Cycle Sales 33% Below Pre-Pandemic levels

The Bicycle Association has just announced that the volume of UK bicycle sales in 2023 was at its lowest level since 1985. Halfords stated that its bicyle sales were down by almost a third.The £8.6 million LiveWestEaling (LWE) project, launched four years ago, has still to get off the ground. LWE is run by the cycling charity Sustrans. So it's no surprise that most of TfL's money is aimed at supporting the apparently declining number of cyclists.

Eric Alan Leach ● 311d10 Comments ● 305d

Cycling news

Quite unusually both BBC London and ITV London carried items about the danger cyclists pose to pedestrians. BBC reported on floating bus stops, ITV on speeding cyclists in Regents Park.The floating bus stop piece highlighted the dangers to particularly vulnerable groups such as the visually impaired when getting on and off buses. The footage showed lots of cyclists not slowing down at the designated pedestrian crossing and recorded one collision.The Regents Park item recorded lots of cyclists exceeding the 20moh speed limit, with one recorded at 32mph. This was in relation to the recent court case where a cyclist was not prosecuted despite causing the death of an elderly lady crossing the road in the park when he hit her at 28mph on his bike.The LCC spokesperson in the ITV piece says there’s no need for a change in the law as ‘cyclists are already covered by existing laws’. Except they are not, as the Regents Park case clearly showed. He had no response to that other than a lot of bluster.The BBC wheeled out Simon Munk, who admitted there are some idiots on bikes (that’s a first from an LCC member). But he was clearly more concerned about those in two wheels rather than those on two feet, simply saying there needs to be more education.What’s clearly emerging now is that there needs to be better regulation and policing of cyclists who flout the rules of the road. It’s happening a lot but often goes unreported.

Simon Hayes ● 370d115 Comments ● 307d

We have interesting changes to Planning Legislation about to happen.

Not only a lot more Towers, but development on our green spaces too?I predict an utter planning disaster...

Rosco White ● 316d6 Comments ● 308d

Estate created by Ealing Builders in Banstead protected again

Perrys (Ealing) Limited who were based in Uxbridge Road, Ealing W5 in the 1920s/30s created the well-ordered "Banstead Common Estate" includng plots in Burgh Wood, Hillside and Green Curve in Banstead, Surrey.Restrictive covenants were imposed on each sale by Perrys limiting density to one house per plot. Despite the passage of some 95 years, the estate is still very much intact.During the last 17 years residents have seen off 6 sets of developers in 4 roads on the estate and not a single backgarden development has been effected despite countless planning applications and appeals.In the latest very recent case, "Wilshaw & Another v Square Motion Limited" (Claim No.PT 2024 000269), the High Court of Justice has issued a Declaration that a restrictive covenant imposed by Perrys in 1933 is valid and enforceable against a would-be developer who has made 3 planning applications to date. This means that no extra house can be erected on the back garden of the original 30s plot. The developer has been ordered to pay over £28,000 legal costs to the main Objector who resides next door and who brought the court action.The December 2023 NPPF and London Plan definitions in their glossaries specifically EXCLUDE domestic gardens from a "Brownfield" classification and gardens are otherwise known as "Greenfield" land. The national re-classification originally took place on 9th June 2010.Amazingly, I hear that some planners are still telling residents that gardens are "Brownfield" land!Victor Mishiku  15/7/2024

Victor Mishiku ● 309d0 Comments ● 309d

Ealing Hospital incompetence

Ealing Hospital failed to admit my husband, despite him being seriously ill, he died in West Middlesex Hospital 5 days later, of multiple organ failure

Patricia Mary King ● 312d1 Comments ● 309d

Ealing Hospital incompetence

Ealing Hospital failed to admit my husband, despite him being seriously ill, he died in West Middlesex Hospital 5 days later, of multiple organ failure

Patricia Mary King ● 312d0 Comments ● 312d

"Roads in West London feature in list of where drivers lose most time to traffic".

Errr....That should be Roads in West London where too many cars and too much driving cause the most traffic surely?Or to repeat a mantra, you're not stuck in traffic you ARE traffic...https://neighbournet.com/server/common/contrans019.htm

Paul James ● 328d58 Comments ● 320d

Waitrose West Ealing

Waitrose want to demolish its supermarket. It's less than 20 years old. It replaced the original Waitrose store on the site which also lasted less then 20 years. The houses close by are over 100 years old. They may have been extended or re-purposed into two flats, but the investment in energy, bricks and mortar etc is still in place. We should not be allowing such environmental vandalism.Transport for London has announced that when developers build on top of a car park the site becomes car-free. So Waitrose will not be allowed to build a replacement car park.Residents in West Ealing and Hanwell have in the last year suffered power cuts. A electrical sub-station in the centre of West Ealing set on fire during one of these power cuts. The power companies namely SSEN and National Grid have an enormous task on their hands to replace old and tired sub-stations with new ones. Also power is not infinite. With over 1,000 new residents expected in the Waitrose, Manor Road, and Hastings Road developments over the next few years, will there be sustainable energy available for all of them? All new residents will be less then 5 minutes walk from West Ealing station.Finally we have the farce which is The Elizabeth Line. For many months now commuters have been unable to board the east bound trains in the morning rush hour at West Ealing station. They are so crammed with passengers, no-one else can board the train. If close access to the Elizabeth Line for commuting to central London/the City is the reason for buying/renting at Waitrose - potential occupies will quickly spot   this rail service failure and may be put off renting/buying.

Eric Alan Leach ● 341d22 Comments ● 323d

It's rumoured that Reform are on an eleventh hour Roll....pinching votes from everywhere.

It's getting interesting ........

Rosco White ● 330d6 Comments ● 324d

Feeling Democracy now a mere corpse in West Ealing

As if it had nothing better to do TfL has granted £8.5 million to "improve" West Ealing. You would think the "consultation" with us natives would be run fairly and dispationately by a neutral organisation like the Electoral Reform Society. Oh no Mason and Costigan chose a cycling charity Sustrans with obvious bias to do the dirty business. Under M and C the diggers came in to remove half of Lammas Park with no public exhibition or involvement. Now I forgot the jack boot chaotic Low Traffic Neighbourhood Scheme. I feel oppressed. My voice don't count

Arthur Breens ● 338d9 Comments ● 325d

Lammas Park Archeological Dig/Rare Earth mineral deposits

Local flooding? Beaver reserve? Digger exibition? Football Training ground? War memorial? Heliport? Greyhound track? Olympic stadium and cycling facility? Borough composting facility? Election winner? More tower blocks? Jogger training? Food delivery moped training and medical facility? Borough Bomb Shelter..residents need not apply website down.(Min of defence best kept secret?)Councillor and officer jogging track? Space station? London Zoo Annex? Refugee Holding Centre (near Heathrow on way to Rwanda)? Park-Home park? BEAVER RESERVE is best bet 7-1 favourite.Why are there railings and diggers in Lammas park? Only silent councillors need reply. Vote for me to represent you but keep silent on this matter! Manifesto? What? Thames Customer Services? What? Anyone what ? Feels like dictatorship, communist block decision making."Ve vill has eet here Comrades!"The government is broke. The council is broke. Thames Water is broke.I burst into tears because I know who is paying for this and who will pay for this. Anyone know anyone of the 350 thousand households flooded in South Ealing last year? When will the docks be built at Acton Town and Boston Manor to ferry Tube passengers to Heathrow? Global warming?Lock me up I am going crazy. Sorry, " Again Ve vil do eet Comrades!", they have just closed the last two remaining psychiatric wards at Ealing Hospital. Is it just post-Covid Blues?Can anyone help? Private Eyeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee?

Arthur Breens ● 372d