Dated 6th June 2004
The Residents’ Association welcomes everyone’s contribution. If you have a problem, suggestion or news please contact a Committee member. They are: Jim Hurson (flat 6) Shirley Batten-Smith (flat 7) Syd Hall (flat 9) and Paul Ryzman (flat 11)
Also on the committee are the Directors of Langwood Residents Association Ltd who are:
Tony Batten-Smith (flat 7) Alan Goodridge (flat 21) and Stephanie Beardsworth (flat 22).
Our Managing Agent is Dennis Brooke of Qualitas telephone: 01923 211331
The following items were considered at the latest meeting.
Flat 4
We welcome Ann and Steve who have recently moved in.
Trespassers
This thorny question has been raised again by a suggestion that a gate be inserted by the main car park to deter people from walking through our gardens. At the meeting opinion was divided so it was agreed to ask you for your opinion. Some people are very irritated by this nuisance while others are hardly aware of it or feel we can live with it. Where do you stand? Do you want to forgive those who trespass or do something about it?
The last time we looked at this problem it was decided to put up new ‘private property’ signs. They were fairly successful in reducing the number of people taking a short cut but it still happens. Obviously it is virtually impossible to eliminate the problem altogether without turning the property into a fortress. However it has been suggested that a strategically placed gate would have significant impact on the problem.
The favourite route is the diagonal between Grandfield Avenue and the small car park. The idea is that a gate in the hedge at the western end of the car park would be visible from Grandfield Avenue and rather than walking up to it and risk finding it locked and then having to retrace their footsteps people would walk round. Also, the mere presence of the gate would reinforce the message that this is private property.
The question is would it work? Should we try it and see? (Although it wouldn’t be massively expensive there would be costs involved). Would the effect be only temporary? Would people resume their old habits once they had discovered it wasn’t locked? (Having a locked gate would create problems for legitimate visitors and residents and might be an incitement to vandalism).
The committee would like to hear your views. You can speak to (or write or email) a committee member or you can come to the next meeting (details below).
Double glazing
The common area windows have been replaced but in block 10/22 the lower panes are clear when they should have been fitted with obscured glass. This is to be corrected.
Bins Block 1/9
The arrival of the new bins is imminent. They will have lids that we hope will be an advantage but if it proves a problem for anyone please let us know.
Roof inspection.
In response to a requirement of our buildings insurance an inspection of all the flat roofs on our site is being arranged. The purpose is to assess their condition and identify whether any maintenance is needed. The cost is £250 and the job will be done shortly.
AGM
It was agreed at the AGM last month to ban the display of estate agents ‘For Sale’ and ‘To Let’ boards and Dennis Brooke will shortly be sending a formal advice to all lessees.
Next Meeting: Sunday, 4th July 2004 at 10.30 in Flat 21
Meetings are also scheduled for 1 August and 5 September 2004.
Sending the newsletter by email saves time and paper. If you would like your newsletter sent by email please let Alan know your address on alanjgoodridge@hotmail.com