Eltham South

Conservatives have raised concerns that an eight storey tower block on the Grove Market site in Eltham, could have a serious impact on visitors to the much-loved Bob Hope Theatre.

Data published today by independent charity the RAC Foundation has revealed that Greenwich Council has again increased its parking profits paid by residents this year. For the last three years parking charges and the cost of permits have more than doubled or trebled, and in some places charges in Eltham have gone up by 280%. In that time the council's profits from parking have soared by over 90%.

Despite having the idea of including an “Urgent Care Centre” (or Minor Injuries Unit) in the new Eltham Community Hospital rejected by the Labour Council in July this year, Conservatives are urging residents to respond to the “Right Care, First Time” consultation where the option is being actively considered.

Councillors Adam Thomas and Spencer Drury met with local residents at the start of December to discuss the consultation on the creation of a new, large controlled parking zone (CPZ) across the Eltham area. The proposed area includes parts of four different wards including Eltham West and Middle Park & Sutcliffe in addition to Eltham North and Eltham South (which Spencer and Adam represent).

Eltham councillor Adam Thomas has discovered that new proposals for the Grove Market site will include a eight storey tower block. A planning application has been submitted by new owners Citygrove which will include 144 flats and only 49 parking spaces, as well as space for a restaurant.

The latest edition of the Eltham Park Residents’ Association (EPRA) newsletter carries a story concerning the re-allocation of Eltham Church of England School (frequently called Roper Street) to Eltham Park South. Behind the scenes Eltham Councillor Spencer Drury has made clear his opposition to this proposal, but as local residents are fully aware of the issue (meaning it is in the public domain), he has decided to comment.

Conservative Mayor of London Boris Johnson has launched a consultation on extending the time drivers are allowed the park in Stop and Shop bays. The announcement follows plans unveiled by Communities Secretary Eric Pickles to reduce parking restrictions. Both hope that by reducing parking restrictions we can boost trade for places like Eltham High Street and the Blackheath Royal Standard.

Eltham South councillor Matt Clare attended today’s meeting of the London Assembly to present a petition to Boris Johnson, on behalf of residents, calling for the Avery Hill CPZ to be implemented. The petition includes the signatures of over 250 residents living on the Avery Hill estate and Eltham Heights.