Kings Crescent

Resident Gathering 10 Jan 7pm
2024-01-10 19:00 - 20:30 (Europe/London) | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Meet your neighboursHackney Showroom

Source Regeneration Update Drop-in
2023-12-12 16:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom

Winter Market 2 Dec 2023
2023-12-02 14:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
There’s a chill in the air which means its time to get ready for our Winter Market…
Whether hunting for the perfect present or browsing for something interesting to buy whilst sipping mulled wine & enjoying the tunes,
please join us on 2 December for a festive indoor market.
All welcome!
Free Entry
Santa will be there approx 3-5pm

To book a stall please go to: https://www.hackneyshowroom.com/winter-market/

Resident Steering Group Meeting
2023-11-28 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Resident Steering Group‘ meetings happen every few months. Kings Crescent residents can apply to be in the RSG and it is a chance to meet with Hackney’s Regeneration Team, architects, builders etc to discuss the plans for the next round of new buildings and refurbishment of existing blocks on the South of Kings Crescent Estate

Notes of Kings Crescent Steering Group Meeting held on 28th November 2023

Those Present:
Cllr Clare Potter (CP) (Chair)
Residents:
EP, JWM, EV
KH, ES, PS, RS
PA, PD, KM, AF
(Names removed on website version for privacy)

In Attendance:

Ron Greenwood (RG)
Chey Brown
Jane Haverson
Menekse Saitoglu
John Morris (minutes) (JM)
Lee Walsh (LW)
Vincent Raymond (VR)

LB Hackney
LB Hackney
LB Hackney
Source Partnership (ITLA)
Source Partnership (ITLA)
Mulalley
Mulalley

1.0
Introductions and apologies
Action

1.1

Apologies were received from Carol Squires

2.0
Notes of previous meeting held 17th April 2023 and any Matters Arising not elsewhere on the agenda

2.1

The minutes were agreed as a true record, although they were circulated several months ago. CP and JM committed to pick up any actions that were noted in April.

3.0
Enabling works for phase 3&4 – Mulalley

3.1

LW and VR gave a presentation; slides HERE.

Questions and subsequent discussion as follows:

PA – when will the sewer problems in Weston Court be picked up? There should be information on this issue from before.
VR – we need to do comprehensive surveys of all components to ascertain the extent of all potential problems.

KH – how will the height difference between old and new blocks be dealt with?
VR – buildings will follow a gradient.

EV – for clarification, Casbeard St will be closed from approx. Sept 2024 onwards?
VR – timings on street closure depends on response times of utilities companies. Mulalley will close the street as late as possible. Also, if there is likely to be a prolonged period of inactivity between end of prep/enabling works and start on site, Mulalley would be willing to consider a temporary re-opening of the street.

CP recorded thanks to residents for their feedback and to Mulalley for reconsidering the access route onto site.

KM – what can be done with the new hoarding?
LW – Mulalley will change all the hoarding; existing has been in place for many years and there will be a new hoarding line. Mulalley very open to ideas to e.g. paint the hoarding using local young people or street artists. Easter holidays might be a good time to start to organise this.

AF – the presentation mentioned the possibility of access works from Green Lanes affecting the bus stop opposite.
LW emphasised that it may be necessary to move the bus stop – not take it away – to accommodate a layby opposite on the Sainsbury’s side of the road. Mulalley will be talking to Highways about this.

PA – the tree on Murrain Rd that will need to be relocated could be planted in a space near Sainsbury’s.
VR – Mulalley are flexible about where trees that need to be moved can be re-situated and it will be done after discussion with LBH and the community. VR emphasised that any relocation will be done by an experienced arboriculturist and any trees that do not need to be moved will be fully protected.

PA – is the Datchworth arch high enough for construction traffic? And will it be possible to open Queens Drive at its junction with Green Lanes so vehicles do not have to come down all the way down Queens Drive?
LW – yes, there will be no problem getting appropriately sized vehicles through this point. The access to Queens Drive from Green Lanes will not be opened, although if it could be it would be very helpful. Feedback from discissions with Highways will be provided.

PD – on the same point, there will be disruption to more people with traffic approaching along Queens Drive.
LW – LBH will not want to keep the gate open and it could not reasonably be overseen by a marshall/banksman who would have to open it for construction traffic while preventing all other vehicles from also driving into Queens Drive. A permanent opening here would create a rat run from Green Lanes at periods of high traffic density. However, LW committed to speaking to Highways about this and feeding back either at the next meeting or via Ron.

JWM – will there be certain times of the day when deliveries will be made to site?
VR – school run times will be avoided, so traffic will be allowed access only from 8.30/9.00 a.m. and only up to approx. 3.00/3.30.

EP – what will happen to the trees on the Green Lanes/Queens Drive corner (where DZ6S will be)?
VR – there are trees that will be too big to move; the machinery to do this doesn’t exist in the UK. Mulalley will carefully work around trees and have to be careful not to affect the root structures.

KM sought clarification on timelines.
LW – we are about 20 weeks into the original programme for redesign and cost optimisation process. Starting enabling works now and seeking all relevant permissions during 2024 should ensure alignment with a start on site in 2025.

LW to feedback from discussion with Highways

LW to feedback from discussion with Highways

4.0
Approach to future Social Value work with Mulalley – Source

4.1

JM – further to discussions with Mulalley and LBH, Source are keen to facilitate the formation of a residents group specifically to look at Social Value issues with Mulalley, the TRA and Hackney Showroom. This could consist of a number of residents who are not on this RSG but who have an interest in Social Value issues.
CP – Councillor Adejare would like to promote any opportunities that might emerge for Parkwood School students. Other areas of interest could be: funding/resourcing the Youth Club, the hoarding decoration project, funding/support for making the allotments work better for residents. CP added the idea mooted earlier this year of establishing a memorial as part of the public realm works to residents who passed away during the covid pandemic. EV also mentioned a sustainable energy project.

Source to start work on facilitating a Social Value steering group Q1 of 2024

5.0
ITLA update

5.1

JM – Source have continued to run monthly drop in sessions between 4.00 and 6.00 pm for any resident to call in for an update. The last one of the year will be on 12th December and will be advertised as an opportunity to see Mulalley’s proposals as presented tonight.

6.0
Any other business

6.1

CP asked about the other workshop sessions that have been discussed for 2024.
RG – once a firm programme has been agreed, it will be possible to align workshops with the relevant elements of the design/cost optimisation process. Subjects for workshops are likely to focus on play/public realm works, refurbishment details and the new community centre fit out.
LW – the public realm discussions will be the first priority as this will need to be included in the minor planning amendment application and discussions could start around Easter 2024. Workshops on design modifications for the refurbishment and the new community centre might be appropriate mid to late summer 2024.

KM asked for confirmation that the planning application will be for minor amendments (S73).
LW – yes. The footprint of the buildings will not change (except possibly and slightly, DZ6S), but this will impact on the need to now build a second staircase within the affected blocks.

KM – the quality of materials is also important.
LW – there are budget concerns but the client wants quality maintained and Mulalley’s design team will be working closely with LBH’s design guardians.

ES asked that RSG is informed of design changes. He also requested a commentary on where savings have been made in order for residents to understand how the cost optimisation has been achieved.

RG – residents will no doubt be interested in the impact of cost optimisation on how buildings will look. A presentation on the revised designs can be provided prior to the S73 application.

KH – what is the latest thinking on programming of the refurbishment and new build?
LW – it will be one construction period, although for the refurbishment, there is still discussion to be had with residents around a quicker but more disruptive programme or a less disruptive but slower programme. To re-emphasise, the Building Safety Regulations affect all existing blocks as Weston Court is +18 metres high and is connected to the rest of the south side blocks. Also, services infrastructure is also linked between southside existing homes and new build, so e.g. fire strategy, road network will be established across the whole estate.

CP – the last LBH Cabinet meeting considered an update on the KIngs Crescent scheme and asked if this could be circulated as it is a public document. NB timescales mentioned in it are now out of date.

Mulalley and LBH to provide details when able

JM to circulate with presentation and minutes

7.0
Date of next meeting

Next meeting will be in March 2024, date to be proposed nearer the time.

The meeting ended at 8.15 pm

Actions
By when
Who?

Feedback from discussion with Highways on moving Green Lanes bus stop
Next RSG
LW

Feedback from discussion with Highways on possibility of opening gate to enable access to Queens Drive from Green Lanes
Next RSG
LW

Work on facilitating a Social Value steering group to start
Q1 of 2024
Source

Details of where design changes have been made and how cost optimisation has been achieved
Q4 of 2024?
Mulalley and LBH

Report to November Cabinet on Kings Crescent regeneration to be circulated with Mulalley presentation slides
With minutes by 11/12/23
JM

Autumn Family Fun Party
2023-10-28 15:00 - 22:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
https://my-my-dreams.sumupstore.com/product/charity-autumn-family-fun-day

Sound Bath 12 Oct
2023-10-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Dear Sound friends,
this Thursday 12 October I am back to the Hackney Showroom for a Sound Bath Meditation.
Time is 7.00 to 8.00 PM .
If you need more information about the session please contact me anytime.
We have some yoga mats to lay on it, I suggest bringing a blanket and a little cushion to make you feel warm and totally comfortable.
I really hope to see you soon.
Best sounding wishes.
Marco

Further sessions:
16 November
7 December

www.soundsalvej.com

TRA Community Meeting & AGM 20 Sept
2023-09-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
If you live in Kings Crescent, you are a member of the resident’s association and are warmly invited to all Tenants & Resident Association events
September Community Meeting & AGM
20 September 2023 7.00-8:30pm
Venue: Hackney Showroom space, 4 Murrain Road, N4 2BN

AGM
This meeting will start with the ‘Annual General Meeting’ (AGM) where the new resident’s group committee will be voted in.
***We really need new members! Please get in touch if you’re interested in joining the TRA committee***
Everyone living on Kings Crescent Estate is automatically a member of the TRA and a committee of residents is elected at the AGM to lead the group. All KC TRA committee members contribute their time and skills on a voluntary basis.
If you are interested in joining the committee please email KingsCrescentN4@gmail.com or call 07926568497

Community Meeting
This community meeting is hosted by the Tenants & Residents Association (TRA) committee aims to celebrate the community which already exists on Kings Crescent and look for ways to develop this further.
It’s a chance for residents to discuss what events and activities we want to have here, meet your neighbours etc.
Let us know if you have any ideas!
Pizza and refreshments will be provided!

Why be involved in the Tenants & Residents Association (TRA)?

contribute to taking action on issues which affect Kings Crescent
meet your neighbours
improve our community
decide how we spend funds available for community activities
represent residents and make your voice heard
get involved in projects (e.g gardening club, youth club)

Agenda:

Agenda Item
Suggested timing
Lead

1
Welcome & Pizza

Pizza & refreshments
Introductions (including apologies for absence)
15 mins
Emley (TRA Chair)
Emma Harrison (Hackney RP team)

2
Formal TRA AGM

a. Approval of minutes from the last AGM (14 Sept 2022)
b. Election of New TRA Committee
c. Treasurer’s Report (Alice H)
d. Chair’s report (Emley P)
e. Any other business related to AGM
f. close of AGM

30 mins

Annie Chan (Hackney Housing Officer for Kings Crescent)

3
Community Meeting

· Approve minutes from last community meeting (June 2023)
· CDF update
· Youth club update
· Gardening/allotments update
· Hackney Showroom update
· Resident questions, ideas, suggestions etc

40 mins
TRA Chair & committee members

Residents

4
Any other business
Dates of next meetings & events
Close
5 mins

TRA Chair

Allotment Gathering
2023-09-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Allotment Courtyard, Between Therfield, Barley, Chipping & Redbourn Courts, Access via Sim Street or Casbeard Street, N4 2GD, United Kingdom

Allotment Gathering 17 August
2023-08-17 18:30 - 20:00 | Allotment Courtyard, Between Therfield, Barley, Chipping & Redbourn Courts, Access via Sim Street or Casbeard Street, N4 2GD, United Kingdom

Kings Crescent Street Party
2023-07-29 14:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
The Kings Crescent TRA & Hackney Showroom invite you to our annual street party extravaganza!
Featuring DJs, market stalls, a bouncy castle, ice cream van, photobooth and more!
This is a free event, but let us know you’re coming by registering for a ticket HERE

Regeneration Update drop-in 27 July
2023-07-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Minutes of the last Steering Group meeting including Mulalley presentation can be found HERE

Open Resident Steering Group Meeting
2023-07-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
For more details of what will be discussed see the Hackney Update Newsletter (delivered to all properties & HERE) and the minutes of the previous RSG meeting in April and slides of Mulalley’s presentation HERE

Sound Bath meditation 6 July
2023-07-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Sound Bath Meditation
An immersive sound meditation with Gongs, Himalayan Bowls, Crystal Bowls & therapeutic percussion instruments.
Sound Therapy Practitioner Marco Florio will guide an initial meditation followed by an hour of gentle immersive sound.
Cost: £15 per session
Book via email: soundsalvej@gmail.com or text 07956 119 710

Sound Bath meditation 28 June
2023-06-28 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom

Regeneration Update drop-in
2023-06-22 16:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom

Sound Bath meditation 15 June
2023-06-15 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom

Residents Meeting 14 June
2023-06-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
TRA Community Meeting
Minutes
Kings Crescent Community Meeting

Hackney Showroom
Wednesday 14 June 2023

Attendess:
Emma Harrison (Hackney Council Resident Participation Team)
Shah Rahman (Hackney Council)
Nina Lyndon (Hackney Showroom),
12 residents (names removed for privacy)

Approval of minutes from previous meeting
JWM and KM proposed and seconded

Gardening group update

Have held two events – launch of growing season & bed clearing
Also been refreshing allotment plot allocation – there are now spare plots available
Trying to create community around gardening, sense of ownership of whole space
Will be holding social Thu 29 June
Council have handed over issues including all maintenance to us!!
Water tap not working (seems has been turned off from mains)

ACTION – Emma will raise the tap issue with colleagues

General update

Estate manager Anthony has left. Interviewing now for replacement.
In meantime, use neighborhoods email: neighbourhood@hackney.gov.uk
Alice can pass on any issues including mains water being turned off

Updating on community activities (Hackney Showroom)

Next event 29 July. Looking for helpers! 2 – 6pm so setting up any time from midday. 20% of stallholder takings going to Domestic Abuse charity
Have new outdoor stage
Regular programme of weekly/monthly events
No funding for childrens activities over summer hols so no events so far but Emma and Jill discussing one through Access to Sport

ACTION – Emma to pass details for Access to Sport on to Jill

Discussing possible ongoing working group for estate issues but Alice (discussing with Emma at council) not in firm position to give update
Emma needs buy-in from different teams but proposal is to have a representative from each team who’d give regular updates e.g. texts with link rather than meetings. Need housing officer in place to manage this and confirm.

Discussion of AGM & future of the Residents’ Association

TRA all volunteers so need to make sustainable
Alice explained TRA is voted in by estate residents at AGM.
Struggling to get enough people at meeting and on committee
Looking at our vision as TRA and how to make sustainable
Emma shared options for if we don’t have enough people to meet requirements of being a TRA.
Without registered TRA it’s much more difficult to spend fund money and won’t have voice or staff from council coming to meetings
Looking at 4 main meetings a year. Focus next year will be what we want future to look like
Even if people can’t be on committee, please come to the AGM (20 Sep)

Next phase of regeneration project

Update from presentation – details of presentation can be seen here: https:/calendar/resident-steering-group-meeting-17-april-2023/

AOB

Youth Group – only Remi and Jill doing youth group. Remi might be leaving. Up to 15 children attend regularly plus some on waiting list. Anyone interested in helping to run, likely this will resume end Sep (Thursdays 4pm – 6pm).
Question about best platform to raise concerns about repairs in existing building. Emma thinks it’s contacting repairs

ACTION – Emma will check process and let us know.
Agenda
Wednesday 14 June 2023
7–8.30pm
Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, N4 2BN

Time
Item
Lead

19:00
Welcome
Time for Refreshments
Chair of meeting (Alice)

19:15
Approval of minutes from 15 March
Alice

19:20
Gardening update
Sarah/Kathy/Ellie

19:30
Hackney Showroom update
Nina

19:40
ETRA Update
Emma Harrison (Resident Participation) & Alice

19:50
AGM/Future events update
Emma (RP) & Alice

20:00
Next Phase of Regeneration project
Jill/Kathy/Emley

20:10
AOB
Alice

20:15
Close
Alice

Additional information:

See https:/ for details of upcoming events and minutes of previous meetings.
To get in touch with the committee: Email KingsCrescentN4@gmail.com call/text/WhatsApp 07925668497, Social Media: @KingsCrescentN4
Join (e)mailing list: http://eepurl.com/g-NGbD

Wellbeing Meditation 13 May
2023-05-13 11:00 - 14:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Meditation at Hackney Showroom
New to meditation? Come along for the first hour and try it out, the first hour is offered by donation – pay what you can afford
Experienced with meditation? Come along for the full 3 hours for £30
Click HERE to pay and book your place

Dear friends,
Join me this Saturday, the 13th May, for my next community healing meditation in London.
The full session runs from 11am to 2pm and is a £30 contribution.
We will meet at the Hackney Showroom, 4 Murrain Rd, Finsbury Park, London, N4 2BN.
If you are new to meditation and want to try this style of meditation then join me for the 1st hour which is offered by donation.
Booking is still essential, via the link below.
I look forward to seeing you all there!
Lots of love, Aimee Sri Laxmi
Click HERE to pay and book your place

Gardening Event
2023-05-13 11:00 - 12:30 | Allotment Courtyard, Between Therfield, Barley, Chipping & Redbourn Courts, Access via Sim Street or Casbeard Street, N4 2GD, United Kingdom
We will be hosting an open gardening event in the allotment courtyard, all welcome
Details coming soon

Kings Coronation Community Party
2023-05-07 12:00 - 14:30 | Vince Murrrain Community Centre, N4 2GD
This event is being organised by the Residents Association with ‘Big Lunch’ funding from Hackney
We will be providing burgers & sausages (meat & veggie), pizza, salad, cake, soft drinks. Please bring a dish to contribute!
If you are able to volunteer to help at the event we will be setting up from 10am and clearing up until 3.45pm, many hands make light work as they say!
Any questions please email KingsCrescentN4@gmail.com Thanks!

Resident Steering Group meeting 17 April 2023
2023-04-17 19:00 - 20:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
This is a closed meeting for those who have applied to be part of the ‘residents steering group’ (RSG).
It is mandatory to have attended the steering group training provided by Source Partnership.
The steering group comprises of residents from both the old and new blocks and provides resident input into the next stage of new build and refurbishment of Kings Crescent.
For further information on joining the ‘Resident Steering Group’ please email john@sourcepartnership.com or carol@sourcepartnership.com
Key Summary Points:
* Mulalley have been appointed as Hackney’s building contractor
* Plan: 1 year of design review for cost optimisation then 1 year for design approval process and ‘Building Safety Act’ compliance (new regulation). So work due to commence in 2 years
* Part of the Play Street will be out of action for approx 2 years once the work starts at the Green Lanes end of the site
* There will be opportunities for residents to be consulted and meet the contractors during this coming year of design review
* Hackney Regeneration Team will be sending out a newsletter to all residents in June to provide an overview of the process and programme with Mulalley
* Source Partnership will be resuming a drop-in service from June onwards to answer resident questions

Notes of Kings Crescent Steering Group Meeting held on 17th April 2023

Those Present:
Cllr Clare Potter (CP) (Chair)
Cllr Soreya Adejare (SA)
8 Residents:
EP, JWM, EV, PS, PA, PD, KM, AF

In Attendance:
Ron Greenwood (RG)
Chey Brown
Carol Squires (CS)
Menekse Saitoglu
John Morris (minutes)
Lee Walsh (LW)

LB Hackney
LB Hackney
Source Partnership (ITLA)
Source Partnership (ITLA)
Source Partnership (ITLA)
Mulalley

1.0
Introductions and apologies
Action

1.1

Apologies were received from resident KH

2.0
Notes of previous meeting held 13th October 2022 and any Matters Arising not elsewhere on the agenda

2.1

The minutes were agreed as a true record

3.0
Introduction to Mulalley and the Kings Crescent project – Lee Walsh , Contracts Manager

3.1

Lee gave a presentation, (slides below) followed by questions.

CP asked for the slides to be circulated.

PA – can data from previous site surveys be used by Mulalley to reduce the work involved?
LW – these will be used to provide a basic understanding but Mullalley will need to explore in much greater detail, e.g. soil surveys will be taken at 5m intervals.

CP – will the extended period for redesign etc. mean that investigations will be more thorough, so chance of issues arising later is minimised?
LW – no, the delays at this stage won’t mean the surveys will be any more thorough; they will be thorough anyway but it means that due diligence can be completed earlier, making good use of the extended period of redesign, sign off etc.

SA – can we be assured that the length of time at this stage will not have a detrimental impact on leaseholders?
RG – leaseholders will benefit from cost optimisation but it is important that the principle of design parity between new build and refurb is maintained. Cost optimisation is a way to balance quality and cost.
LW – no one can predict market forces but there are signs that costs are starting to plateau. The pressures on the building industry have been unprecedented following Brexit, the pandemic and the Ukraine war (an example of the latter was a 500% increase in the cost of concrete and steel in 3 months). RG added that estimates of build cost inflation had been factored into the approval of the scheme.

SA – what does ‘added value’ mean to Mulalley?
LW – it differs between projects and depends on what communities’ priorities are. It could be funding existing projects, business development mentoring, local school equipment donations, work in schools on career options and job-readiness.

KM – the plan to use the section of Murrain Road at the Green Lanes end is a real concern as Hackney Showroom and the street immediately outside have become a valuable focus for community activity. It is a ‘people street.’ How can you help limit the impact? JWM added that taking away the play area and the other site logistics mean that there will be little space for young people to play, gather etc.
LW – unfortunately, the only way to get construction vehicles on and off site is from Green Lanes; there are height and width restrictions that prevent other means of access.
JWM – can’t the currently vacant area adjacent to Green Lanes not be used as it was for phase 1&2?
LW – we will be building on that. The plan is that the new build blocks will be constructed all at the same time; a phased programme for this part of the development will prolong the build period by years.

EV – will the refurbishment take place in parallel with the new build?
LW – there is some flexibility in when and how long the refurbishment takes. If it is done at pace, it will obviously be completed sooner but there will be more disruption. If the community want to see less disruption, then the programme for the refurb. could be lengthened.

CP asked how long the half of the play street nearest Green Lanes will be out of action.
LW – maybe 2 years?
RG added that there will be photographic and video evidence stored of the play street in its current form so it can be reinstated exactly as before. Items on the play street that need to be moved will be stored or re-located. This includes the trees. It was noted that pedestrian access along Murrain Road to Green Lanes will still exist.
EV – it will be important to maintain easy pedestrian access across the estate, so the north and south sides are not completely separated. Does this mean the ball court will go?
LW – yes.
RG – we aim to try to find solutions to some of these issues with residents through workshops etc.
CP – it will be important that the estate continues to be brought together through the social value part of Mulalley’s contract.
LW also noted that a lot of space on the estate will be taken up by storage of materials (illustrated by black cross-hatched areas on the site plan).

CS – could meanwhile uses be considered for e.g. storage facilities when not in use? Also what are residents’ views on the proposed respite facilities?
There was discussion about the respite provision, noted that it wasn’t well used in phase 1&2. Can it be used for more social/community/play activities? LW – this is all up for further discussion and community will have the opportunity to reshape provision in dialogue with Mulalley.

CS noted that there is only one lift serving Weston Court – at the Datchworth Court junction. If the access to Green Lanes at the north end of the block is closed off, it will be a long walk for residents to access the lift.
LW – would be open to keeping the access available at the other end of Weston Court.

CP – phase 1&2 had major problems with lifts and the energy centre working efficiently. If better aftercare can be assured for installations in this phase, perhaps by sourcing from UK, more expensive manufacturers, this might be worth it to save costs after completion.
LW – the cost optimisation process is being done in collaboration with the client; ultimately, these sort of costs are not Mulalley’s decision. Note that the cost optimisation exercise isn’t a way for Mulalley to make savings and maximise profit; it’s about getting best value.
RG – there is a new, borough-wide spec for lifts that will be used and there will be an enhanced M&E clerk of works inspection process.
LW – Mulalley will employ its own lift consultants who will have an input into design, will lead on market testing of suppliers and will carry out an inspection function pre-handover, at snagging before the lifts are put into operation.
CP -what about the energy centre?
LW – Mechanical & Electrical contractors will be managed separate M&E managing agents, who are consultants, not Mulalley, therefore there is independent scrutiny of this aspect of the contract.

PA asked when the Weston Court podium will be coming down.
LW – we will look to progress this as early as possible. However, it will be a process of deconstruction rather than demolition in order to minimise noise, dust etc.

AF asked about access to Weston Court for deliveries.
LW confirmed that access will be maintained.

EP sought confirmation of the timeline; 90 to 100 weeks before start on site?
LW – yes, it will be that long. An early start to the refurb. was considered but compliance with the new Building Safety Act is needed for all aspects of the contract before any work can start. Planning consultation and the impact of the BS Act are 2 key factors that will affect the timeline that are out of Mulalley’s control.
CP noted that another 2 year’s wait is hard to hear for residents but commended Ron on providing consistency throughout the process leading up to this point.

4.0
Future resident engagement – Source

4.1

CS noted that Source have now vacated the VM Community Centre but we want to agree a programme of activities to maintain momentum with resident engagement. We propose monthly drop ins at Hackney Showroom to provide information and seek views on e.g. meanwhile uses and other issues that residents can help to influence. Noted that information needs to be disseminated widely across homes; the 8 households represented at this meeting cannot be expected to be the conduit for spreading all info.
RG – there is a newsletter due to go out.
CS – if there are design and other significant changes, these should be communicated as we go along. This could include introduction of meanwhile uses to soften the blow of losing part of the playstreet.
RG agreed and highlighted the importance of resident input into design of the public realm.
CS – we could use the logistics plan to generate residents’ views at drop ins. We could start drop ins this month.
JWM suggested speaking and visiting the Elders Lunch Club.

RG also noted ongoing discussions about site visits. Mulalley sites in Bethnal Green, Parkview (Highbury New Park) and the now completed Bridge House still possibilities.

CP – are there any other communities we are not reaching?
EP – non-resident leaseholders?
SA – are translated written materials needed?

5.0
TRA update

5.1

EP reported back:
· A newsletter was produced in Nov 2022.
· The winter market, where the TRA had a stall was a success.
· The recent Community Meeting which was less formal engaged more people.
· Youth Club going well.
· Gardening also going well.
· Upcoming events:
o 7/5 – a coronation event, with LBH funding will be held at the VMCC
o 13/5 – a gardening event
o 14/6 – next Community Meeting
o 20/9 – TRA AGM at which Emley will stand down as Chair
ETRA meetings have stopped in their previous format. LBH/resident liaison will be organised differently.

6.0
Any other business

6.1

SA wished to record thanks to Emley for her participation in the Council’s scrutiny review of regeneration.

7.0
Date of next meeting

7.1

CP proposed quarterly meetings would be appropriate, so the next RSG would be early July. However, it was agreed to wait until the new year’s municipal calendar has been published to confirm a date when CP and SA can attend.

CS – there needs to be something to say to make the meetings worthwhile.
RG – next meeting could include discussions about preparing for the cost optimisation exercise.
CS – once people have had a look at the slides from tonight’s presentation, there should be more questions.
LW – Mulalley can commit to attending all future RSGs, even if LW himself does not attend; it may be more relevant for specialists within the company to attend to deal with specific issues with RSG meetings focusing on one or two themes at future meetings.

The meeting ended at 8.45 pm

Slides from Mulalley presentation:

Meditation 15 April
2023-04-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Meditation at Hackney Showroom
New to meditation? Come along for the first hour and try it out, the first hour is offered by donation – pay what you can afford
Experienced with meditation? Come along for the full 3 hours for £30
Click HERE to pay and book your place

Dear friends,
Join me this Saturday, the 15th of April, for my next community healing meditation in London.
The full session runs from 11am to 2pm and is a £30 contribution.
We will meet at the Hackney Showroom, 4 Murrain Rd, Finsbury Park, London, N4 2BN.
If you are new to meditation and want to try this style of meditation then join me for the 1st hour which is offered by donation.
Booking is still essential, via the link below.
I look forward to seeing you all there!
Lots of love, Aimee Sri Laxmi
Click HERE to pay and book your place

Spring Party (CANCELLED)
2023-04-02 15:00 - 18:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Sorry, the Residents Association was hoping to host a kids party to celebrate Spring, Easter etc but we don’t currently have capacity within out team of resident volunteers.
If anyone would like to help with future events please contact KingsCrescentN4@gmail.com
Thanks!

Gardening Event
2023-03-25 11:00 - 12:30 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
This meeting led by the Residents Gardening Group will be an opportunity for residents to make plans for what to grow in the communal allotments, support residents with allotments, and to decide on gardening events for the year.
Seeds will be available for anyone to take to grow at home.
The initial meeting will be in the Hackney Showroom space but if the weather is okay we can also have a wander around the allotment space in the central courtyard.
This event is particularly aimed at those with existing allotments or have an interest in gardening, but anyone is welcome to join us!
If you have gardening knowledge we would love for you to share your experience!!

Meditation 18 March
2023-03-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
ENERGY-LIFT GUIDED MEDITATION

with Aimee Sri Laxmi

In-person every month!
11am to 12pm

Guided meditation practice, insight and breathwork to support your mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.
Re-charge your energetic batteries and feel uplifted!

Offered by donation (suggest £5-£15 but pay whatever you can afford)
Click HERE to pay and confirm booking

Longer option also available for those more experienced in meditation:

Do you fancy treating yourself to a half-day meditation and energy-lift session to let go of the impact of our crazy modern lives and connect with the natural state of rest and relaxation?
These Monthly Healing Meditation sessions are the perfect pick-me-up!
This is an opportunity to go deep into the energy of peace, and relaxation. To connect with yourself so you can better connect with others.
The theme for this month’s group meditation is,
‘THE POWER TO INITIATE’
We are tuning into the energy of nature as the first new signs of spring are here; longer days, new shoots, and winter sun.
We will take time out to tune into the energy of fresh starts!
New Growth
New Frontiers
New Paths to Open Up
The Celtic goddess Brigid is the goddess of spring. Britain is named after Brigid and there are many wells, springs, and holy places dedicated to this deity all over Britain.
During this session, as we welcome Spring into our lives, and celebrate the goddess Brigid, we will focus on our ‘Power to Initiate’ change, in whatever form that takes for each of us.
The session runs from 11am to 2pm and is a £30 contribution.
We will meet at the Hackney Showroom, 4 Murrain Rd, Finsbury Park, London, N4 2BN.
If you are new to meditation and want to try this style of meditation then join me for the 1st hour which is offered by donation. Booking is still essential, via the link below.
I look forward to seeing you all there!
Lots of love Aimee Sri Laxmi

BOOK HERE

Dates for 2023
Saturday, 18th February
Saturday, 18th March
Saturday, 15th April
Saturday, 13th May

Community Meeting
2023-03-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Resident meetings happen once every 3 months and are a chance to meet your neighbours and have a say in what is happening on Kings Crescent.
The focus of this Spring meeting is to create a plan for the events and activities that we want to see happening this coming year

Agenda
Timing
Lead

1
7pm Welcome, Introductions and apologies
· Pizza & Refreshments
10 mins

2
Residents Group (TRA) Committee Updates
· Summary of current activities
· Approve minutes from last community meeting (Sept 2022)
5 mins
TRA committee

3
Hackney Showroom Update
· Update on existing community programme
5 mins
Hackney Showroom

4
Ideas workshop
· New funding in April, need an events plan for the year
· See what we’ve done before & share your thoughts
· Bring new ideas to discuss
30 mins
Residents
& TRA commitee members

5
Round up & conclusions of event planning

10mins
TRA committee

6
8pm Estate/Hackney update
· Update on Estate issues and relationship with Hackney
20 mins
Alice (TRA)
Anthony (Hackney) TBC

7
Any other business
Dates of next meetings & close 8.30pm
10 mins
TRA committee

The space will be open for 30 minutes after the meeting to chat to neighbours and continue conversations started during the event
The next community metings will be on:

14 June 2023 7pm
20 September 2023 7pm (including AGM and election of new resident committee)

Charity Games Night
2023-03-11 15:00 - 22:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Book Tickets Here:
https://my-my-dreams.sumupstore.com/product/papyrus-charity-event

Exhibition of Our Place in the Game 2
2023-03-10 14:00 - 19:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
Exhibition of Our Place in the Game

Come along and see what a group of Kings Crescent Residents created at the end of last year.
After a series of workshops thinking on the question – what is our place in the game? – the group created a live performance on the estate.

For this exhibition we are displaying the film as well as the costumes, masks and props from the day.
You can also read the book we’ve made at the end of it all!

Hackney Showroom, Kings Crescent Estate
Thursday 9th March, 1 – 4pm
Friday 10th March, 2 – 7pm

Exhibition of Our Place in the Game 1
2023-03-09 13:00 - 16:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom

Beautiful Breath 28 February
2023-02-28 19:45 - 21:00 | Hackney Showroom Space, 4 Murrain Road, London, N4 2BN, United Kingdom
THE BEAUTIFUL BREATH
With AJ
In person on the last Tuesday of every month 7.30-9pm
This is a soothing session that combines Wim Hof inspired breathing techniques with ancient Qi Gong practices that will leave you feeling deeply relaxed and at peace.
Cost £10 per session (all profits going to charity*)
Click here to book: The Beautiful Breath
More details:

The breath is a beautiful and powerful tool that if given awareness too, can sooth our nervous systems and leave us with a sense of calm and fluidity even in the most stressful of situations.
In this session you will be guided through a Wim Hof inspired breathing technique breath by breath, in a tribal- inspired gathering, in time with calming music, which will leave your body and mind in a state of complete calm and relaxation. We will then take this peaceful energy you have created and using a very simple Qi Gong form, send it to every cell in your body removing any blockages, creating a sense of fluidity and flow in and around you.
The session runs for approx 50 minutes and a little longer sometimes if people are keen to ask questions at the end. Please wear loose comfortable clothing to the class and I look forward to meeting you.
AJ x
BREATH, FEEL, FLOW.
*The £10 charge for the class is to cover the cost of hiring the venue, book here, after that any profit will go to the Ukraine crisis appeal.
