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Statement of Community Involvement
Phase 1B North Reserved Matters
April 2017
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Contents
1 Introduction 3
2 Executive Summary 4
3 Pre-Application Public Consultation Requirement 7
4 Consultation Activity 9
5 Participation 15
6 Feedback: Summary 18
7 Feedback: Analysis and Response 24
8 Appendices 33
1: Consultation Plan
2: Invitation Letter
3: Stakeholder/Interest Groups Letter
4: Local Councillors/Politicians Letters
5: Exhibition Boards
6: Photos from the exhibition
7: Video from the exhibition
8. Website
9: Poster
10: Advert
11: Press release
12: Press coverage
13: Social media examples
14: Retailers; letter
15: Feedback form
16: Sturgess Park Consultation – letter, plan and feedback form
17: Sturgess Park Consultation – poster
18: CAF note
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1. Introduction This Statement of Community Involvement has been prepared in support of a Reserved Matters
Application (RMA) for Phase 1B North, submitted by the Development Partners.
Building upon previous consultations and dialogue with key stakeholders in 2014/2015, leading to
the submission of the Phase 1A (North) Reserved Matters Applications, a programme of pre-
application community consultation for Phase 1B North RMA proposals was undertaken during
October - November 2016. An additional consultation to improve Sturgess Park, just to the north
west of Brent Cross Shopping Centre, was undertaken in December 2016.
This report details the consultations undertaken including consultations with stakeholders which
extended beyond the period October - November 2016, the feedback received and the outcomes.
A Consultation Plan for Phase 1(B) North was devised in accordance with London Borough of
Barnet’s (LBB) own Statement of Community Involvement guidance (July 2015) and the
Development Partners took the advice of the Council before commencing the consultation
programme. Please see Appendix 1 for a copy of the Consultation Plan. It is also consistent with the
approach set out in the public consultation strategy, submitted under condition 1.23 (Ref No
14/07891/CON) in March 2015.
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2. Executive Summary The programme of pre-application community consultation, in relation the Reserved Matters
Application for Phase 1B North for the development of Brent Cross London, including the Sturgess
Park Improvements, was undertaken during October - December 2016.
Background
Planning Permission Ref No. C/17559/08 (“2010 Permission”) for the comprehensive redevelopment
of Brent Cross Cricklewood (“BXC”) was granted in October 2010. A Section 73 planning permission
Ref No. F/04687/13 (“2014 Permission”) to develop land without complying with conditions
attached to the 2010 Permission was granted by London Borough of Barnet (“LBB”) on 23 July 2014.
These changes included introducing a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the North Circular (the
‘Living Bridge’), and revisions to the content of the first phase, including the early delivery of
transport improvements across the whole area. The 2014 Planning Permission divides the site into a
series of phases and sub-phases, with Phase 1 being split into five sub-phases. In 2015, Hammerson
and Standard Life Investments submitted RMAs to the London Borough of Barnet for the first phase
of the masterplan, known as Phase 1A North. These RMAs, which relate to new and improved
highways, new bridge structures, the diversion of the River Brent, new areas of open space and two
residential plots, were approved during 2015.
Consultation Activity
The Phase 1B (North) RMA pre-application community consultation involved public exhibitions, one-
to-one political stakeholder meetings and a website dedicated to the project. Furthermore, a
significant number of meetings with various stakeholders including LBB have taken place in 2016 and
2017.
The objectives of the pre-application community consultation were to fully explain the plans for
RMA 1B North, to remind people about the consented masterplan and what already has permission,
to engage with a wide cross-section of the public and to properly consider and respond to comments
and questions raised.
An invitation letter to the exhibition was sent to 34,000 properties (homes and businesses)
surrounding the site, over 1,000 individual letters to stakeholders (for example councillors, resident
groups, faith groups, local interest groups) and an email sent to 80,000 individuals on Brent Cross
Shopping Centre’s database.
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The exhibition and website were also publicised on posters, in the local, London and trade media via
press releases and adverts, and on social media such as Facebook and Twitter.
The exhibitions about the emerging Phase 1B (North) proposals were held at Brent Cross Shopping
Centre on Thursday 3 November – Sunday 6 November 2016 and at Hendon Leisure Centre on
Monday 7 November – Tuesday 8 November 2016. People who visited the exhibition were provided
with a feedback form (which was also made available online via the BXL website).
For the Sturgess Park Consultation, nearly 800 homes in the area around Sturgess Park received a
letter, the indicative design plan and a feedback form. In addition, Tavistock contacted the three
West Hendon ward councillors and council officers. Posters were displayed in the local area and the
BXL website also carried details of the Consultation.
Participation
Around 2,400 people attended the exhibition. 347 people provided written comments.
People could provide their feedback through multiple channels by:
Completing the feedback form at the exhibition or completing the online form
Posting the feedback form (or their comments) via: Freepost BXC Public Consultation
Calling a Freephone number: 0800 917 3176
Emailing via the website at: [email protected]
Briefing meetings were held with eight political stakeholders: local ward councillors (West Hendon,
Childs Hill, Golders Green), local constituency MPs and local GLA members. Other neighbouring
ward councillors from Barnet Council, as well as Brent Council and Camden Council were offered
meetings / sent briefing information on the scheme and consultation, as were London First, CBI
London and London Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Barnet Council Officers informed all other
LBB councillors.
In total 25 people responded to the Sturgess Park consultation (21 via the Freepost address and 4
online), and one face-to-face meeting was held with a local resident.
Feedback
Overall, the majority of the public who took part in the pre-application community consultation
supported the plans – 67%, with 20% neutral and 13% opposed.
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Over 90% of respondents were in favour of the following elements: refurbishment of the existing
shopping centre; a new and enlarged bus station; improvements to Sturgess Park; Brent Riverside
Park (Eastern & Western); pedestrian and cycle routes; sustainability strategy.
Over 85% of respondents were in favour of the following elements: new retail shops; new
restaurants and bars; new cinema complex; town square.
Over 75% of respondents were in favour of hotel accommodation and new housing.
Other comments raised that are relevant to this consultation, and suggestions made, are listed in the
main body of the report, along with the Development Partners’ response. [A number of other issues
were raised, which are not relevant to this consultation, or have been addressed at previous
consultations.]
Many respondents suggested that any improvements to Sturgess Park would be welcomed and
almost all respondents liked all the elements proposed. A number of suggestions were made and
these, along with the Development Partners’ responses, are included in the report.
Outcomes
The vast majority of those that completed feedback forms were either very supportive of the Phase
1B (North) proposals (67%) or neutral (20%), with 13% coming out as opposed to the plans.
Very few residents (only around 3 per cent of those who received literature) took the opportunity to
submit feedback on the Sturgess Park consultation, which suggests that there is little community
interest or concern with the plans. Of those that did respond, the vast majority were supportive of
the plans, and keen that the work begins as soon as possible, as the feeling is that Sturgess Park has
been neglected for far too long.
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3. Pre-Application Public Consultation Requirements First adopted in 2007 and revised in July 2015, London Borough of Barnet’s Statement of Community
Involvement (SCI) sets out how the Council will involve local residents, businesses and community
groups in the production of planning documents and the consideration of planning applications. The
2007 SCI was substantially revised to take into account reforms to the planning system and
technological advances such as social media and the internet.
The Council’s revised SCI outlines that pre-application consultation can be undertaken by a
developer before submitting a formal application. The process and details are discussed with
planning officers at a pre-application meeting. The Council requests pre-application consultation on
all large scale major development proposals and in general it is considered appropriate for schemes
where:
the proposals are likely to have a significant impact on the environment or on the local
community, and
the nature of the development is likely to attract significant local interest.
The aim of pre-application consultation is to encourage discussion before a formal application is
made, enabling communities to have an influence on a planning proposal before it is finalised. The
process can help to identify improvements and overcome objections at a later stage.
The SCI outlines that such pre-application consultations can take the form of exhibitions,
presentations, workshops or simply a letter or mail shot. The output of a pre-application
consultation should feed into a Statement of Community Involvement, which is submitted with the
subsequent planning application. This report should set out the main issues raised and how the
proposals have addressed them.
The Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy Ref No 14/07891/CON (Condition 1.23
attached 2014 Permission” was approved by LBB in March 2015. The Strategy sets out the broad
principles that will be adhered to for each phase or sub-phase of consultation as follows:
· Clearly present the plans for each phase at an appropriate level of detail before the RMA for each
phase or sub-phase of the development is submitted for approval
· Provide an opportunity for the public and stakeholders to understand the proposals and feedback
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· Allow sufficient time between the start of consultation and submission and for those comments to
be properly assessed and considered by the Applicant and their design and technical team. In the
majority of instances, 4-6 weeks will be the recommended period
· Be appropriately promoted so that local communities and key stakeholders (listed above) are
informed of the consultation
· Cover a sufficient geographical area in relation to the scope and range of the proposals
· Ensure that materials produced have an online presence so that those people unable to attend
consultation exhibitions, meetings or events in person have the opportunity to review the
consultation materials remotely
· Ensure that anyone asking a question of the Applicant during consultation on phases or sub-phases
of the development is provided a response within an appropriate time frame.
The Development Partners are committed to open and meaningful public consultation. Consultation
for Phase 1B North was based on the Council’s SCI requirements and those within the Brent Cross
Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy (Condition 1.23), previous consultation and best practice.
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4. Consultation Activity
BXL CONSULTATION
This pre-application public consultation was in relation to emerging designs of the proposals within
Phase 1B North, which involves the creation of a new town centre which includes the following
elements:
New retails shops
New restaurants and bars
New cinema complex
Community floorspace
Brent Cross Main Square and the Threshold Space, which include Tempelhof Circus, Fenwick
Circus and Layfield Place
Hotel accommodation
A new and enlarged bus station
Improvements to Sturgess Park
Brent Riverside Park (Eastern & Western)
Pedestrian and cycle routes
New housing
Low carbon energy centre and environmental initiatives
Although it does not form part of the Phase 1B (North) RMA the refurbishment of the existing
shopping centre is also proposed. The activities undertaken for the consultation are outlined below.
Public Exhibition
A public exhibition was held at Brent Cross Shopping Centre on Thursday 3 November – Sunday 6
November 2016 and at Hendon Leisure Centre on Monday 7 November – Tuesday 8 November
2016.
An invitation letter publicising the exhibition was sent to 34,000 properties in all surrounding
postcode districts; see Appendix 2 for a copy of the letter.
The following stakeholders and interest groups were also informed of the exhibition in line with
Condition 1.23 (see Appendix 3 for a copy of this letter):
All retailer store managers at Brent Cross Shopping Centre
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Previous visitors to BXL exhibitions (if contact details were known)
Residents Associations and community groups in the local area including:
- Barnet Homes
- Cricklewood Community Forum
- NorthWest TWO Residents'
Association
- Barnet Residents Association
- Dunstan Road Residents
Association
- The Residents' Association of
Barnet
- Burgess Hill Residents' Association
- Claremont & Clitterhouse
Committee
- Residents' Community Association
(Railway Terraces)
- Prayle Grove Residents Association
- West Hendon Community Forum
- West Hendon Residents'
Association
- Dollis Hill Residents Association
- Federation of Residents
Association in Barnet
- Cricklewood Improvement
Programme
- Cricklewood Millennium Green
Trust
- Barnet Society
- Age UK Barnet
- Barnet +55 Forum
- Barnet and Enfield Friends of the
Earth
- Barnet Cyclists
- Brent Cyclists
- Brent Friends of the Earth
- Campaign for Better Transport
- Coalition for a Sustainable Brent
Cross
- Community Barnet
- London Campaign for Better
Transport
- London Wildlife Trust
- Open Spaces Society
- Fordwych Road Resident
Association
- Railway Cottages
- Hadley Residents' Association
- Hampstead Garden Suburb
Residents’ Association
- Finchley Society
- Mill Hill Preservation Society
- Friends of Windsor Open Space
- Chelwood Resident Association
- East Barnet Residents' Association
- East Barnet Residents' Association
- Friern Barnet and Whetstone
Residents' Association
- Clan Residents’ Association
(Crewys, Llanvanor and Nant Road)
- Barnet Council for Voluntary Youth
Services
- Barnet TUC
- Brent TUC
- Camden Friends of the Earth
- Community Barnet Volunteer
programme
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- Cricklewood Millennium Green
Trust
- London 21 Sustainability Network
- New Barnet Community
Association
- RIBA North West London
- Wright Community Development
Trust
- Barnet Citizens Advice Bureau
- Finchley Citizens Advice Bureau
- Brent Terrace Residents
Association
- Brent Cross Residents Association
- Mapesbury Residents Association
(MAPRA)
- Whitefield Residents' Association
- Barnet Society
- Queen's Road Area Residents
Association (QRARA)
- Comber and Ainsworth Residents
Association
- Garth House Residents' Association
- Golders Green Estate Residents
Association
- Hermitage Court Residents’
Association
- Mapesbury Dell (formerly named
Conservation Trust)
- Woolmead Avenue Residents
Association
London-wide interest groups – London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, London
Councils, London First, CBI, London and Partners, North London Strategic Alliance, New
London Arch
Holiday Inn
Shops in the Retail Park (opposite Brent Cross Shopping Centre)
Transport and environment groups
Local health services
Local schools
Local faith groups
Disability groups and representatives who attended the Accessibility workshop in October
2013
Letters were sent to the following local councilors and politicians informing them of the exhibition
and inviting them to meet (see Appendix 4 for a copy of the letters):
London Borough of Barnet ward and neighbouring ward councillors
Leader and Chief Executive of London Borough of Brent and London Borough of Camden
Members of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, Hendon and Chipping Barnet
Greater London Authority – Mayor’s office, Andrew Dismore (London Assembly Member for
Barnet & Camden) and Navin Shah (London Assembly Member for Brent & Harrow)
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Minister of London (and Housing)
The exhibitions held at Bent Cross Shopping Centre and Herndon Leisure Centre were manned by
the Development Partners, Brent Cross Shopping Centre staff and members of the project team
(planers, architects, landscape architects and communications people).
A copy of the exhibition boards can be found in Appendix 5. Photos from the exhibitions can be
found in Appendix 6.
Brent Cross London Website
A new website about the proposal and exhibition was launched at the outset of the public
consultation: www.brentcrosslondon.co.uk
The information boards and feedback form from the exhibition were also made available on the
website, to ensure details about the proposal were accessible to those who were unable to attend
the exhibitions.
The website will be updated throughout the lifetime of the project.
See Appendix 7 for a screen shot of the website or visit www.brentcrosslondon.co.uk to view the
website. Vox pops were filmed during the exhibition, which can be found on the website:
http://www.brentcrosslondon.co.uk/Exhibitions
Poster
A poster was produced, publicising the exhibition and website. Copies were distributed and
displayed at the Brent Cross Shopping Centre and Hendon Leisure Centre; see Appendix 8 for a copy
of the poster.
Advertising
Advertisements about the consultation and exhibitions were placed in:
Barnet and Potters Bar Press
Jewish Chronicle
The Ham & High
Brent and Kilburn Times
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A series of adverts were placed, to appear in each publication during w/c October 24, then w/c
October 31, in advance of the exhibition on November 3. See Appendix 9 for a copy of the advert.
Barnet First (LBB magazine)
Information (and images) about BXL was carried in the October and December issues of Barnet First
which is distributed to all home and business addresses in the Borough.
Press Release and Coverage
Journalists from the following local, national and trade media were informed about the exhibition so
that the event could be publicised to a wider audience:
- Hendon & Finchley Times (weekly readership 35,000)
- Edgware & Mill Hill Times (weekly readership 17,000)
- Barnet & Potters Bar Times (weekly readership 35,000)
- Brent & Kilburn Times (weekly readership 78,955)
- Barnet & Potters Bar Press (combined circulation with Hendon & Finchley Press 70,000)
- Ham & High (weekly readership 41,258)
- Evening Standard (circulation 900,000)
- City AM (circulation 97,658)
- Time Out London (circulation 308,995)
- Trade media including:
o Property Week (circulation 16,000)
o Estates Gazette (circulation 16,883)
o Building Magazine (circulation 10,000)
o Shopping Centre (circulation 7,000)
o Retail Week (circulation 7,000)
Online
- The Londonist
- Capital-Life
Radio
- LBC
- BBC Radio London
- Capital London
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TV
- BBC London
- London Live
- ITV News London
- Channel 4 News
See Appendix 10 for a copy of the press release issued announcing the public exhibition. Media who
published details of the consultation/project included:
Evening Standard
City AM
London Live (radio)
Property Week
Estates Gazette
Retail Week
Ham and High Express
Hendon Press
Copies of the coverage can be found in Appendix 11.
Social media
The public consultation and proposals were also promoted via Facebook and Twitter; examples of
posts and tweets can be found in Appendix 12.
Brent Cross Retailers Briefing
A briefing was organised and held for Brent Cross retailers and their staff. A copy the retailers’ letter
can be found in Appendix 13.
Feedback form
A feedback from was made available at the exhibition and on the website. A copy can be found in
Appendix 14.
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STURGESS PARK CONSULTATION
The Sturgess Park Consultation process ran in December 2016. Nearly 800 homes in the immediate
area around Sturgess Park received a letter, the indicative design plan and a feedback form. Copies
can be found in Appendix 15.
In addition, Tavistock contacted the three local ward councillors and council officers. Posters were
displayed in Parkfield Primary, Parkfield Children’s Centre and Topsy Turvy World. See Appendix 16
for a copy of the poster. The BXL website has also carried details of the Consultation.
5. Participation
PUBLIC EXHIBITION
In total 347 people provided written comments – all of whom were thanked for their feedback
where contact details were provided.
Three (3) voicemails were received; all of whom have been responded to or sent requested
materials by post.
Stakeholder Engagement
A significant part of the consultation has included individual meetings with a wide range of local
councillors, technical groups and relevant stakeholders, including LBB and Transport for London
(TfL).
This has included the following engagement:
- Weekly meetings with LBB took place from June 2016 at which the design proposals for Phase 1B
(North) were presented, comments were raised by LBB and response material was then prepared
and presented at following meetings.
- The CAF met five times on 6 June 2016, 20 July 2016, 18 August 2016, 27 October 2017 and 30
January 2017 to review the design development of Phase 1B North, including the external and
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internal circulation of the shopping centre, car parking, cycle parking and drop-off provision, the
design of the bus station, the internal facilities to be provided and the shopmobility service.
- The sustainability and energy proposals (which are detailed in the compliance statements
submitted with the Phase 1B (North) RMA) were discussed at the Energy Panel meeting on 6
October 2016 and 24 February 2017.
- The new Brent Cross Bus Station was designed in consultation with TfL.
ONE-TO-ONE STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
Meetings were held with the following elected representatives:
All of the above received Tavistock's report on the BXL Exhibitions via email on December 19th 2016.
Other stakeholder contact:
Cllr Melvin Cohen (Con, Golders Green & Chair, Planning Committee) - sent report on the
BXL exhibitions
Cllr Jack Cohen (LibDem, Childs Hill) - sent report on the BXL exhibitions
Cllr Reuben Thompstone (Con, Golders Green) – he had wanted to meet after or during the
consultation period and was offered a meeting but was not taken up. He was sent the BXL
exhibition Report.
DATE POLITICIAN
14/10/16 Cllr Peter Zinkin (Con) Childs Hill Ward
Cllr Shimon Ryde (Con) Childs Hill Ward
17/10/16 Cllr Adam Langleben (Lab) West Hendon Ward
21/10/16 Cllr Dean Cohen (Con) Golders Green Ward
25/10/16 Andrew Dismore AM (Lab) Barnet & Camden
Navin Shah AM (Lab) Brent & Harrow
26/10/16 Theresa Villiers MP (Con) Chipping Barnet MP
26/10/16 Dr Matthew Offord MP (Con) Hendon MP
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Cllr Agnes Slocombe (Lab, West Hendon) - sent Exhibition Report and notified about Sturgess
Park consultation on December 5th (as was Cllrs Langleben & Kay and LBB)
Cllr Devra Kay (Lab, West Hendon) - currently stepped away from council duties (ill-health)
so there has been no direct contact
Letters to LB Camden Leader & Chief Executive
Letters to LB Brent Leader & Chief Executive
Mike Freer MP (Con, Finchley & Golders Green) - sent Exhibition Report (he declined offer of
a briefing meeting).
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (DoT minister) – informed by letter
Sadiq Khan, London Mayor - Offered meeting but not taken up.
Gavin Barwell MP (DCLG minister) - Offered meeting but not taken up.
London First, CBI London & London Chamber of Commerce & Industry - notified of BXL
exhibitions/ did not seek a meeting
Barnet Council Officers informed all other LBB councillors.
STURGESS PARK CONSULTATION
In total, 25 people responded to the consultation (21 via the Freepost address and 4 online).
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6. Feedback: Summary
BXL CONSULTATION
Tavistock analysed all 347 written comments received and the tables below summarise the topic
areas covered in order of the frequency of which that comment was made.
Of those that filled in the feedback form:
58% Female
42% Male
And in terms of how people found out about the exhibition before attending:
39% Had received a letter or email from the Development Team
20% Were shopping in Brent Cross and came across the exhibition
15% Found out by word of mouth
8% Saw a poster
Female
Male
Letter/emailfromDevelopmentTeam
Shopping inBrent Cross andcame acrossexhibition
Word of mouth
Poster
Newspaperadvertisement
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8% Saw a newspaper advertisement
7% Saw press coverage
1.8% Saw it on Facebook
0.6% Found it on the internet
0.6% Saw in on Twitter
Please note that some comments covered multiple areas and these have been recorded separately
to ensure that all comments have been fairly reported. Therefore the total number of comments
analysed is greater than the 347 people who sent written feedback.
Proposed Changes
The largest single category of comments was those very supportive about the proposed changes
67%. 20% were neutral. Whereas only 13% registered themselves as opposed to the plans
Of those opposed to the scheme, 64% were aged 41 and older, whilst only 9% were aged between
16-24. However, of those supporting the scheme, 52% were aged between 16-40, whereas 48%
were 41 and older.
Phase 1B North RMA emerging designs
The following views were given in relation to the elements of Phase 1B North RMA, the focus of this
consultation:
Neutral
Opposed
Supportive
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In Favour Opposed
a) New retail shops 89% 11%
b) New restaurants and bars 86% 14%
c) New cinema complex 86% 14%
d) Town Square 86% 14%
e) Hotel accommodation 75% 25%
f) A new and enlarged bus station 93% 7%
g) Improvements to Sturgess Park 92% 8%
h) Brent Riverside Park (Eastern & Western) 94% 6%
i) Pedestrian and cycle routes 94% 6%
j) New housing 78% 22%
k) Refurbishment of existing shopping centre 90% 10%
l) Sustainability strategy 91% 9% (low carbon energy centre /environmental initiatives)
Other comments
A number of comments were made, many of which were not relevant to this consultation. The
largest areas of concern were the loss of free parking (due to planning regulations) and the potential
effects of traffic congestion.
Parking
Traffic/congestion
Environment/pollution
Public transport links
Other
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22% Loss of free parking
16% Traffic congestion
8% Environment/pollution
8% Need for better public transport links
46% Other (see below for details)
The following concerns were raised:
Number of comments % of comments Comment Summary
80 22.6% Loss of free parking
57 16.1% Traffic/congestion
29 8.2% Environment/pollution
29 8.2% Need for better public transport links
25 7% Sufficient social housing
12 3.4% Provide good pedestrian access & proper cycling links
5 1.4% Schools already over subscribed
The following comments were made:
20 5.7% Project is overdue
The following suggestions were made for inclusion in the scheme:
17 4.8% Provide a mix of shops
10 2.8% Children’s play area
6 1.7% Medical facilities
5 1.4% Swimming pool
5 1.4% Sturgess Park improvements
4 1.1% Faith room
4 1.1% Solar panels
4 1.1% Ice skating rink
3 0.9% Roof garden
3 0.9% More seating
3 0.9% Ten pin bowling
2 0.6% Halal restaurant
2 0.6% Tennis courts
2 0.6% Gym
2 0.6% Library
1 0.3% Bee hives (with option to sell Brent Cross London Honey)
1 0.3% Vegan restaurant
1 0.3% Visitor Centre (during construction)
1 0.3% Zip wire
1 0.3% Internet café/technology hub
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1 0.3% Farmers’ market
1 0.3% Museum
One-to-one stakeholder meetings
The following issues were raised that relate to this consultation:
Comment Summary
Cycling & pedestrian access
Impact on Golders Green restaurants
Housing provision
Size
Use of BXL's community space
Local community benefits
Local jobs and training/apprenticeships
The following other concerns were raised that were not the subject of this consultation:
Comment Summary
Traffic/congestion/ road infrastructure
Access from BX tube
Whitefield Estate
Project financing
STURGESS PARK CONSULTATION
Of the 25 people who responded to the consultation:
18 were supportive of the plans
6 were neutral
1 was opposed
Almost all of those who were supportive of the plans liked all the elements:
Under 5 play area
Children’s Play area
Central Seating Area
Improving access north to south
Landscaping (trees and shrubs)
Supportive
The main comments from supporters suggested that ANY improvements to Sturgess Park will be
very welcome as it is currently in a very poor condition and people currently feel vulnerable just
walking through it.
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Although one respondent was keen to point out that that they would prefer it if the paved area be
kept to a minimum to allow more space for grass for picnics, etc.
Suggestions included:
- table tennis facilities
- family picnics facilities
- exercise equipment for over 60 year olds (as per Govt guidelines)
- a Park Keeper
- chess tables to promote social activity between different age groups
- coin operated shopping trolley mechanisms at BXSC, to stop the plethora of shopping
trolleys that litter the area around the Park.
Neutral
Of the six people who professed themselves “neutral”, they liked all the elements of the plan apart
from one who disliked “Landscaping (trees and shrubs)” as there could be “too many bushes for
undesirables to lurk”.
A couple of the neutrals were keen to make the point that surveillance cameras will be needed
and/or regular visits by community policing, otherwise vandalism will continue to be an issue. One
resident has requested a meeting with a representative of the Development Partners to discuss the
proposals, which is currently in the process of setting up.
Opposed
The lone opposition also liked all of the elements of the plan apart from the idea of the youth
activity area, to which she vehemently objected. She believes that could have an effect on noise
levels that would be an issue for local residents and also fears that it could attract (more) drug
dealers to the area. She suggested moving the Youth activity area to Hendon Park as it is much
bigger.
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7. Feedback: Analysis and Response
An invitation letter to the exhibition was sent to 34,000 properties surrounding the site, 1,000
individual letters to stakeholders and an email sent to 80,000 individuals on Brent Cross Shopping
Centre’s database. The exhibition was also published to the wider area via local press and posters.
Around 2,400 people attended the exhibition. 347 people provided written comments.
As detailed above the Development Partners have also consulted key stakeholders such as LBB and
the CAF, the outcomes of which have informed the design of the Phase 1B (North) proposals.
Support
Overall, the majority of people who took part in the consultation supported the plans – 67%, with
20% neutral and only 13% opposed.
Phase 1B North
This consultation focused on Phase 1B North and respondents were asked their views in relation to
the elements of which this Phase comprises.
Over 90% of respondents were in favour of the following elements:
- Refurbishment of the existing shopping centre
- A new and enlarged bus station
- Improvements to Sturgess Park
- Brent Riverside Park (Eastern & Western)
- Pedestrian and cycle routes
- Sustainability strategy
Over 85% of respondents were in favour of the following elements:
- New retail shops
- New restaurants and bars
- New cinema complex
- Town Square
Over 75% of respondents were in favour of the following elements:
- Hotel accommodation
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- New housing
Other comments
Other comments raised that are relevant to this consultation are listed below, along with the
Development Partners’ response:
Comment/Query Number of comments
Development Partners’ Response
Provide good pedestrian access & proper cycling links
Stakeholder meetings
A comprehensive pedestrian and cycle network is provided
Impact on Golders Green restaurants
Stakeholder meetings
The regeneration of Brent Cross should help local high street shops. An improved offer here will attract more people to the area and also keep local spend in the area, which is currently leaking to other destinations such as Stratford.
Housing provision Stakeholder
meetings In Phase 1, around 50 residential apartments are proposed on a plot adjacent to Layfield Road and Sturgess Park. It is proposed that the plot will provide a mixture of one, two and three bedroom apartments. The ratio between private and social housing has yet to be determined, but it will be agreed with the Council.
Size Stakeholder meetings
The new centre will add more than an extra 1 million sq ft of new and reconfigured retail and leisure space, so it will double the size of the existing
Comment/Query Number of comments (%)
Development Partners’ Response
Sufficient social housing 25 (7%) The Pre-RMA submissions under Conditions 1.12 and 1.13 of 2014 Permission identifies that Phase 1B (North) is not required to provide any affordable housing by virtue of the affordable housing provided within Phase 1A (North) which comprised the Whitefield Estate Replacement Units (Part 1).
Provide good pedestrian access & proper cycling links
12 (3.4%)
A comprehensive pedestrian and cycle network is provided including a 24 hr
route along High Street North. Project is overdue 20 (5.7%) It is intended for Phase 1B (North) to be
completed in 2022.
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centre. It will be comparable in size to Westfield Stratford.
Use of BXL's community space Stakeholder meetings
This will be a genuine public/open space for local people to enjoy. The plans include significant improvements to Sturgess Park, providing new facilities such as play areas for all age groups. There will also be a new Town Square where arts/cultural events would take place.
Local community benefits Stakeholder meetings
The BXC Development as a whole will generate c. 27,000 jobs. BXL will provide a high quality retail and leisure environment and will become a significant economic driver for the local and wider area. Replacement of the channelised River Brent to create a new waterside parkland environment along the realigned river. Areas of new public realm will be created by BXL including Brent Cross Main Square, a number of threshold spaces and High Street North along which 24hr accessible routes will be maintained. Significant improvements to Sturgess Park BXL will specifically deliver new multi-space community floorspace and a neighbourhood police unit. There will also be child care facilities. The scheme provides for highways and transport improvements and significantly enhanced new bus station.
Local jobs and training/apprenticeships
Stakeholder meetings
A contribution of £1m will be provided by the Development Partners to support employment and training initiatives.
The following suggestions were also made for inclusion in the scheme:
Suggestion Number of comments (%)
Development Partners’ Response
Provide a mix of shops 17 (4.8%) A wide range of shops will be provided. The new centre will attract leading international and UK retail brands alongside space for local and pop-up businesses and concept stores to test consumer appetite for the latest trends
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Other issues raised
A number of other issues were raised, which are not relevant to this consultation, or have been
addressed at previous consultations. However, they are noted below with a response from the
Development Partners’.
Medical facilities 6 (1.7%) Medical facilities will be provided as part of the Brent Cross South development
Sturgess Park improvements 5 (1.4%) The plans include significant improvements to Sturgess Park, providing new facilities such as play areas for all age groups (see the Sturgess Park Consultation)
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Comment/Query Number of comments (%)
Development Partners’ Response
Loss of free parking 80 (22.6%) The 2014 Permission requires that car parking is charged. Traffic/congestion 57 (16.1%) New roads, roundabouts and junctions to be built in Phase 1A
North – these will be the “end state” road infrastructure for the whole BXC regeneration area. Planning consent for these elements has been granted through the 9 junctions known as the "Gateway Junctions" which have detailed design as part of the 2014 Permission and further highway and bridge improvements have Reserved Matters Approval. Furthermore, a new world class Brent Cross Bus Station is proposed as part of Phase 1B (North) and entry/exit to BXL will be much improved.
Environment/pollution 29 (8.2%) Brent Cross London will look to put in place a number of sustainable initiatives to minimise the development’s environmental impact, including a dedicated Energy Centre and car parks featuring electric car charging facilities. A range of targets and initiatives to enable Brent Cross London to be a sustainable development will be met such as a Code for
Sustainable Homes Part 4 and BREEAM Very Good. Need for better public transport links
29 (8.2%) The Development Partners are working closely with the London Borough of Barnet, Argent Related and TfL to develop a transport infrastructure that will provide significant improvements to the area and includes a new bus station, an additional Thameslink train station and improved road, cycling and pedestrian routes.
Schools already over subscribed
5 (1.4%) The Phase 1B (North) RMA proposes 52 units which will not
have an impact on education facilities. However, a contribution
towards education will be made as part of the Section 106
Agreement relative to the child yields associated with these
units.
The wider masterplan provides for the replacement of a number
of schools including re-provision of Claremont Primary School
and an education campus in the Eastern Lands which will include
a re-provision of the Whitefield School with capacity for up to
1,200 (existing places is 1,052 places) and further expansion if
necessary.
Comment/Query Number of comments
Development Partners’ Response
Traffic/congestion/ road infrastructure
Stakeholder meetings
As above
Access from BX tube Stakeholder meetings
Pedestrian access from BX tube will be greatly improved with improvements to the northern underpass as the area to the south of the North Circular is made more attractive and the entrance to Brent Cross Shopping Centre from the South is made easier to access.
Whitefield Estate Stakeholder meetings
The Whitefield Estate Relocation Part 1
has been provided through Phase 1A
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STURGESS PARK CONSULTATION
Many respondents suggested any improvements would be welcomed and almost all respondents
liked all the elements:
Under 5 play area
Children’s Play area
Central Seating Area
Improving access north to south
Landscaping (trees and shrubs)
A number of other suggestions were made and considered by the Development Partners. However
the only changes to the plans following the consultation process are detailed above. It is of course
not possible for the Development Partners to adopt every suggestion that was received.
(North) and the Part 2 relocation is being
provided by Argent Related. Project financing Stakeholder
meetings This is a £1.4 billion investment for Hammerson and Standard Life Investments.
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The design of Phase 1B (North) has been influenced by the outcome of the public consultation and also stakeholder engagement including that with LBB and CAF. With respect to CAF a note which identifies the key issues raised by CAF and where relevant the design has changed as a result, in addition to the CAF meeting minutes. A number of key design amendments arising from comments made by the public and as result of pre-application discussions are identified below: - Adjustments have been made to the public realm including the positioning and number of planters and seating. - The Tempelhof Circus Entrance has been reconfigured to provide for improved visual connection between the entrance and Brent Cross Main Square. - Stairs are being provided from Tempelhof Circus to the upper Brent Riverside Park walkway. The gradient of the upper walkway as it passes through has been made shallower. - The cladding of the eastern elevation of Plot 102 has been amended. - Cycle Parking has been increased within the Western Multi Storey Car Park. - A neighbourhood police unit of 90sqm is being provided following consultation with the Metropolitan Police. - The interior renovation of the existing centre is being reconsidered to bring a warmer and more familiar character to the main spaces. In relation to the suggestions at p.21 although tenant mix is unknown at this stage a wide range of shops and leisure facilities in addition to community facilities will be provided.
Sturgess Park
Very few residents (only around 3 per cent) took the opportunity to submit feedback on this
Consultation, which suggests opposition to the plans is very limited. Of those that did respond, the
vast majority were supportive of the plans, and keen that the work begins as soon as possible, as the
feeling is that Sturgess Park has been neglected for far too long.
A review of the local public consultation responses identified a number of recurring themes as follows:
- Skateboarding – potentially too noisy
- Hedge to west to be kept to minimum but would help to protect peoples’ boundaries
- Fencing to perimeter road stops car lights impacting local housing
- Table tennis v chess tables
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- Areas for picnics
- Dog area
- High water table - increased areas of hard surfacing in proposal will increase flooding
- Gym equipment
- CCTV cameras and lights
- Anti-social behaviour – minimise bushes
- Trolley stops Macgregor Smith, the project’s landscape architects, went on to meet with Marjorie Price of 4 Fairfield Avenue to talk through the proposals in more detail. Following this and the consultation responses and also following a review of the requirements for surface water attenuation, the proposals for Sturgess Park have been adjusted to: - Provide more green space for picnics - Provide picnic tables - Provide table tennis facilities - Provide a series of swales to provide above ground water attenuation - Provide informal green space to minimise requirements for surface water attenuation - Provide hedge planting to the northern boundary to strengthen boundary to the adjacent property The revised proposals are illustrated in the following plan.
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8. Appendices
1) Consultation Plan
Phase 1B (North) Public Consultation Plan and Programme
Brent Cross London
September 2016 1. Introduction This document sets out an over-arching plan for the public consultation prior to the submission of the Phase 1B (North) Reserved Matters Application/(s) (“RMA”) for the detailed design of the Brent Cross East Development Zone. This Plan has been presented verbally to the London Borough of Barnet (LBB) at a meeting on August 9, 2016. Public consultation is a key part of the overall project and it is critical that the views of all stakeholders are taken into account before the RMA is submitted. This Public Consultation Strategy has been prepared in accordance with the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy under Condition 1.23 (Ref No 14/07891/CON) in March 2015. This document outlines the Public Consultation Plan and Programme, as devised by Tavistock’s specialists in community and stakeholder consultation. Based on previous engagement by the Development Partners and in accordance with the principles of the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy, a Consultation Zone and key stakeholders have been identified and are listed overleaf. The consultation activities that are proposed are based on our in-depth experience of consultation and best-practice methods used to consult on planning applications across the UK. The plan also takes into account the Development Partners’ previous work at Brent Cross regarding this Project. The activity proposed seeks to respond to the principles for consultation in the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy, Localism Act (November 2011) and in the National Planning Policy Framework (March 2012), and London Borough of Barnet’s Statement of Community Involvement (July 2015).
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2. Consultation Zone The purpose of identifying a consultation zone is to facilitate effective communications with those who may potentially be impacted by the project. The Consultation Zone will comprise the stakeholders that would directly receive literature (e.g. information leaflets) through the post/by email about the project and consultation activities (i.e. exhibition/consultation events). DCLG guidance suggests developers should consult with those ‘within the vicinity of the application’. The term ‘within the vicinity’ is not, however, defined by the guidance. Experience from previous Brent Cross Cricklewood consultations and the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy have informed the consultation zone. Residents and Businesses
Flyers for previous consultations were distributed to homes and businesses in: - NW2 1 – Brent Terrace - NW2 2 – Childs Hill - NW2 3 – Cricklewood - NW4 4 – Hendon - NW2 6 – Dollis Hill/Cricklewood - NW2 7 – Neasden/Dollis Hill - NW4 2 – Wykeham Road - NW4 3 – Brent Cross - NW9 7 – West Hendon - NW11 8 – Golders Green Road - NW11 9 – Golders Green Road This zone totals around 34,000 local households and businesses in all surrounding postcode districts. It is proposed the same zone is used for this consultation. Whitefield Estate residents and Brent Terrace and Clitterhouse Crescent residents These residents would fall into the above zone, but would also form a separate database for tailored correspondence.
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Stakeholders Other key stakeholders we will consult with are listed on the Brent Cross Stakeholder Database and include:
All London Borough of Barnet councillors
All London Borough of Brent councillors
Members of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, Hendon, Chipping Barnet, Brent Central, Brent North and Hampstead and Kilburn
Greater London Authority – Mayor’s office and all London Assembly Members including Andrew Dismore (London Assembly Member for Barnet & Camden) and Navin Shah (London Assembly Member for Brent & Harrow)
All retailer store managers at Brent Cross Shopping Centre
Previous visitors to the exhibitions (if contact details were known)
Residents Associations and community groups in the local area including: - Barnet Homes - Cricklewood Community Forum - NorthWestTWO Residents' Association - Barnet Residents Association - Dunstan Road Residents Association - The Residents' Association of Barnet - Burgess Hill Residents' Association - Claremont & Clitterhouse Committee - Residents' Community Association (Railway Terraces) - Prayle Grove Residents Association - West Hendon Community Forum - West Hendon Residents' Association - Dollis Hill Residents Association - Federation of Residents Association in Barnet - Cricklewood Improvement Programme - Cricklewood Millennium Green Trust - Barnet Society - Age UK Barnet - Barnet +55 Forum - Barnet and Enfield Friends of the Earth - Barnet Cyclists - Brent Cyclists - Brent Friends of the Earth - Campaign for Better Transport - Coalition for a Sustainable Brent Cross - Community Barnet - London Campaign for Better Transport - London Wildlife Trust - Open Spaces Society - Fordwych Road Resident Association - Railway Cottages - Hadley Residents' Association - Hampstead Garden Suburb Residents’ Association - Finchley Society - Mill Hill Preservation Society
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- Friends of Windsor Open Space - Chelwood Resident Association - East Barnet Residents' Association - East Barnet Residents' Association - Friern Barnet and Whetstone Residents' Association - Clan Residents’ Association (Crewys, Llanvanor and Nant Road) - Barnet Council for Voluntary Youth Services - Barnet TUC - Brent TUC - Camden Friends of the Earth - Community Barnet Volunteer programme - Cricklewood Millennium Green Trust - London 21 Sustainability Network - New Barnet Community Association - RIBA North West London - Wright Community Development Trust - Barnet Citizens Advice Bureau - Finchley Citizens Advice Bureau - Brent Terrace Residents Association - Brent Cross Residents Association - Mapesbury Residents Association (MAPRA) - Whitefield Residents' Association - Barnet Society - Queen's Road Area Residents Association (QRARA) - Comber and Ainsworth Residents Association - Garth House Residents' Association - Golders Green Estate Residents Association - Hermitage Court Residents’ Association - Mapesbury Dell (formerly named Conservation Trust) - Woolmead Avenue Residents Association
London-wide interest groups – London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, London Councils, London First, CBI, London and Partners, North London Strategic Alliance, New London Arch
Holiday Inn
Shops in the Retail Park
Large local landowners and businesses
Transport and environment groups
Local health services
Local schools
Local faith groups
Disability groups and representatives who attended the Accessibility workshop in October 2013
These stakeholders will also receive information directly by post/email about the proposal and the consultation events. Wider Community It is proposed that the wider community (those outside the Consultation Zone) will be kept informed through the local media (adverts and press releases), a project website and posters.
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The media selected to publicise through editorial the consultation events and details about the proposal comprises local print, online, radio and television, twitter and other social media. This spread and variety of media would ensure that residents in the wider area would be exposed to information about the proposal and the consultation events. The national and local media identified for editorial coverage are broadly as follows:
Print - Hendon & Finchley Times (weekly readership 35,000) - Edgware & Mill Hill Times (weekly readership 17,000) - Barnet & Potters Bar Times (weekly readership 35,000) - Brent & Kilburn Times (weekly readership 78,955) - Barnet & Potters Bar Press (combined circulation with Hendon & Finchley Press 70,000) - Ham & High (weekly readership 41,258) - Evening Standard (circulation 900,000) - City AM (circulation 97,658) - Time Out London (circulation 308,995) - Trade media including:
o Property Week (circulation 16,000) o Estates Gazette (circulation 16,883) o Building Magazine (circulation 10,000) o Shopping Centre (circulation 7,000) o Retail Week (circulation 7,000)
Online - The Londonist - Capital-Life
Radio - LBC - BBC Radio London - Capital London
TV - BBC London - London Live - ITV News London - Channel 4 News
4. Pre-Application Public Consultation Requirements
2014 Permission
The Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy Ref No 14/07891/CON (Condition 1.23 attached to the Section 73 Permission Ref No F/04687/13 (“2014 Permission”)) was approved by LBB
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in March 2015. The Strategy sets out the broad principles that will be adhered to for each phase or sub-phase of consultation. The condition states that the first RMAs may not be submitted for any phase or sub-phase prior to the preparation of a Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration Public Consultation Strategy, including the provision for Planning and Development Forums, to be agreed by the Local Planning Authority in writing and thereafter implemented. Future consultation around phases or sub-phases of the development must:
Clearly present the plans for each phase at an appropriate level of detail before the RMA for each phase or sub-phase of the development is submitted for approval
Provide an opportunity for the public and stakeholders to understand the proposals and feedback
Allow sufficient time between the start of consultation and submission and for those comments to be properly assessed and considered by the Applicant and their design and technical team. In the majority of instances, 4-6 weeks will be the recommended period
Be appropriately promoted so that local communities and key stakeholders (listed above) are informed of the consultation
Cover a sufficient geographical area in relation to the scope and range of the proposals
Ensure that materials produced have an online presence so that those people unable to attend consultation exhibitions, meetings or events in person have the opportunity to review the consultation materials remotely
Ensure that anyone asking a question of the Applicant during consultation on phases or sub-phases of the development is provided a response within an appropriate time frame
Local requirements
London Borough of Barnet’s Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) was adopted in July 2015. The SCI sets out what consultation the Council will undertake on its own planning policy documents, as well as what consultation is expected of applicants in respect of planning applications.
The SCI advises the following approach to community involvement (page 9):
Pre-application consultation can be undertaken by a developer before submitting a formal application. The process and details are discussed with planning officers at a pre-application meeting. We request pre-application consultation on all large scale major development proposals and in general it is considered appropriate for schemes where:
- the proposals are likely to have a significant impact on the environment or on the local community, and
- the nature of the development is likely to attract significant local interest. The aim of pre-application consultation is to encourage discussion before a formal application is made, enabling communities to have an influence on a planning proposal before it is finalised. The process can help to identify improvements and overcome objections at a later stage. Such pre-application consultations can take the form of exhibitions, presentations, workshops or simply a letter or mail shot. The output of a pre-application consultation should feed into a Statement of Pre-application
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Consultation which is submitted with the subsequent planning application. This report should set out the main issues raised and how the proposals have addressed them. National policy requirements
Both the Localism Act 2011 and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) include provisions relating to pre-application public consultation in respect of planning applications.
Introduced in 2011, the Localism Act creates a requirement to consult; Chapter 4, Clause 122 amends the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to introduce a statutory duty for pre-application consultation prior to the submission of a planning application. However, the Regulations defining the threshold at which an application would trigger the duty to consult have never been laid before Parliament. As such, the Clause itself is not in force. Published in March 2012 several months after the Localism Act received Royal Assent, the NPPF seeks to frame pre-application consultation as a mechanism that can assist applicants and improve planning applications.
Paragraph 66 states that ‘applicants will be expected to work closely with those directly affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of the community. Proposals that can demonstrate this in developing the design of the new development should be looked on more favourably.’
Paragraph 188 states that ‘early engagement has significant potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning application system for all parties’ and that ‘good quality pre-application discussion enables better coordination between public and private resources and improved outcomes for the community’. The NPPF acknowledges at paragraph 189 that local planning authorities (LPAs) cannot require a developer to consult, either with the LPA itself or the community, but states that the LPA should ‘encourage’ applicants ‘to engage with the local community before submitting their applications.’
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5. Consultation Activities A number of consultation activities are outlined below: The Development Partners are consulting the Consultative Access Forum, the Energy Panel, the Transport Strategy Group and Transport Advisory Group with regards to the proposals for in terms of the Phase 1B (North) RMA and the relevant Pre-RMA submissions in line with their Terms of Reference as set out in the Section 106 Agreement. Go Live Consultation announcement An announcement to be distributed to local press and media w/c 17 October, to land at the same time as letters arrive (i.e. two weeks in advance of Exhibition dates). Further press releases may be issued during the consultation process as updates occur. Public Exhibition This has been prepared in accordance with the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy under Condition 1.23 (Ref No 14/07891/CON) in March 2015.
Dates: Thursday 3 – Sunday 6 November 2016
Venue: Brent Cross Shopping Centre
Suggested opening times: Thursday 3 November, 10am-8pm
Friday 4 November, 10am-8pm
Saturday 5 November, 9am-8pm
Sunday 6 November, 11am-6pm
Additional venue: Hendon Leisure Centre
Provisionally booked for: Monday - 11.00am to 7.00pm Tuesday – 12.30pm to 8.00pm
The information could be displayed at the exhibition via: - Large scale display boards - potentially a display that could be viewed from both sides - Summary leaflets - Project website - Presentation materials - Comments form In addition, use of the following materials is being investigated.
- 3D or 4D flythrough of how the shopping centre / living bridge will look - Goggles for use with Ipad (as suggested by RTKL) - Video explainers / animation shown on a flat screen television In addition we could look to: - Collect vox pops (videoed interviews) from members of the public expressing positive or
constructive views at the consultation events
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The fact that the dates selected includes a weekend and weekday evenings should maximise attendance and ensure that as many members of the public as possible have the opportunity to view the proposals. Similarly, the opening times should accommodate different schedules, for example, parents of school-age children, commuters and the elderly. Staffing the events This has been prepared in accordance with the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy under Condition 1.23 (Ref No 14/07891/CON) in March 2015. A staff rota should be devised to ensure that each exhibition is staffed by three to four representatives of the project team at all times. The rota will be made up of people from the following organisations:
Hammerson plc (Development Partner)
Brent Cross Shopping centre team
Standard Life Investments (Development Partner)
Quod (Planning consultants)
RKTL (Architects)
Chapman Taylor (Architects)
Tavistock (Communications advisers)
Macgregor Smith (Landscape Architects)
Other key consultants from key disciplines (e.g. transport)
Having a range of project team staff from multiple disciplines and a constant presence from the Development Partners at each exhibition will ensure that many specific issues about the proposals can be addressed directly at the events themselves. If an issue or question is raised that cannot be answered at the time, contact details should be noted, with a response to be issued via email, phone or post.
Briefing/One-to-One Meetings Where appropriate, briefing meetings will be offered to the following key stakeholders:
Councillors from the key wards affected by the scheme
LBB Executive
Local MPs
Local London Assembly Members
London Mayor’s senior team
London Assembly officers
Whitefield Estate residents
Brent Terrace and Clitterhouse Crescent residents
Brent Cross retailers and staff curriculum
Timings of these meetings to be confirmed, but the following will be approached for one to one briefings pre-consultation:
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Councillors from the key wards affected by the scheme
LBB Executive
Local MPs
Local London Assembly Members
London Mayor’s senior team
London Assembly officers With the following to be approached as we begin consultation:
Whitefield Estate residents
Brent Terrace and Clitterhouse Crescent residents
Brent Cross retailers and staff curriculum Schools Programme In order to reach a younger audience, a specific consultation for local schools could be considered and discussed in accordance with part e of section 9 (“Workshops and technical meetings”) of the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy under Condition 1.23 (Ref No 14/07891/CON) in March 2015. LBB have suggested Whitefield School as a possible appropriate target. Statement of Pre-application Consultation Report A Statement Community Involvement will be prepared for submission with the Phase 1B (North) RMA which will detail the pre-application consultation carried out, comments received and how the feedback has informed the proposal. Post-Submission Engagement It is proposed that engagement with the local community and stakeholders is continued after the planning application has been submitted. At this time, information would be sent to residents, stakeholders and the media informing them of the submitted plans. The website would be regularly updated and the project team would continue to respond to any queries throughout the determination period.
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6. Communication Tools This has been prepared in accordance with the Brent Cross Cricklewood Public Consultation Strategy under Condition 1.23 (Ref No 14/07891/CON) in March 2015. A number of tools are mentioned previously which will be used to communicate the consultation activities and provide information about the proposal. Further details about these specific communication tools can be found below: Flyer and Covering Letters
Flyer drop to the Consultation Zone (c34,000), inviting people to the exhibition and giving details of the project website
Flyer drop at the Brent Cross Shopping centre
Letters will be sent to key stakeholders, inviting them to the exhibition
A digital preview, showing imagery, to be distributed The leaflets will also be placed in the following venues:
Shopping centre, leisure centre, council buildings, libraries and other public places. Advertising To ensure as many people as possible in the wider community are reached, adverts will be placed in the local print press (outlined above) to publicise the exhibition. These adverts will be placed in the three weeks leading up to the exhibition. The adverts would usually be placed on the days with the highest circulation and would be in the run of the paper, usually on the right-hand page and early on in the publication to ensure maximum visibility. Posters Posters will be produced publicising consultation events and contact details. These will be displayed in the shopping centre and distributed to libraries, the council’s buildings and other public places. Press Releases and Media Briefings Journalists from the local and London-wide media will be informed about the exhibition so it can be publicised to a wider audience. They will also be briefed about the proposal and given details to print/broadcast, in order to inform those who may not have been able to attend the exhibition in person. Further press releases will be issued as a method of communicating information and updates about the project, for example, when the application is submitted. A detailed media plan will be formulated to best manage the media and to generate interest in the BX plans. Project Website
The website should continue to provide publicly available information about the scheme as well as being the major online destination for members of the public to provide feedback and/or raise concerns via the ‘have your say’ landing page. Members of the public will also be able to fill out the feedback form after the consultation events have finished.
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All additional online initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the scheme should direct online traffic to the most relevant page on the website. This includes initiatives to broaden the audience such as setting up a Facebook and Twitter page specifically for the development. All relevant content updated on the development’s website can be linked to via social channels. For example, vox-pops gathered from the consultation could be shared on Facebook and Twitter, along with updated communications about the plans, news about local events and community engagement initiatives. The blog and news section of the website will play a significant role in the ongoing consultation campaign. Of all the sections on the site, this is the most likely to be regularly updated with content in the form of links to news articles, press releases and blogs about particular topics. If feedback during the consultation process highlights issues that have attracted a large volume of feedback, the blog section can be used to provide clarity and further information which can then be distributed online, either via social media or by email. An agency has been appointed to develop the website and a wire frame including some initial designs has already been proposed. Social media channels Social media platforms can provide a useful distribution channel for content in a variety of formats including text articles, links to websites, infographics, video and animation. They also provide a means for members of the public to comment and share news and opinion about the scheme in a public arena, which could be positive as well as negative for the scheme. At this stage, we have booked domain names for “Brent Cross North” for a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BrentCrossNorth/) and a Twitter handle (@BrentCrossNorth) as a further means for communicating the scheme, especially as it is already discussed on Twitter. We are also proposing that the scheme sets up a Google + page, which will help with general online presence on Google, despite it not being a widely used platform. We have the opportunity of reinforcing content initiatives that have performed well organically by paying to promote them on social channels as well as Google search. This sort of paid promotion can be targeted to specific regions and demographics. For example, as well as sharing positive press mentions, we are able to promote these on Twitter and Facebook if we feel there is a requirement to increase the target audience. Analytics of website and social accounts Google Analytics and the analytics functions for the various social media platforms, including Twitter and Youtube, will monitor how online assets are being used. The use of analytics can provide important information which can be used as part of the planning process and for future communication. For example, it would be interesting to know which pages of the website or articles on the blog are receiving the most interest and when, as well as being able to attribute registered comments to specific marketing channels. It will also help us to build a picture of other online sites, such as local community forums, which are linking to our content, whether that is in a positive or negative way. Shopping centre website and social media channels
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The exhibition and project website will be promoted through the shopping centre website and social media channels. Shopping centre e-newsletter An e-newsletter to the 28,000 shopping centre website subscribers would also be sent out promoting the exhibitions.
Post, Email and Freephone Telephone Number A postal address, project email address and Freephone telephone number will be provided, to allow people to contact the project team. Feedback form Feedback forms will be available at the exhibition and online to capture any feedback about the scheme. Comments will be analysed and collated and the results fed back to the project team, to inform the proposal. Analysis of the comments will be made available in the Statement of Community Consultation Report. If residents or stakeholders raise any questions that require feedback, the project team will look to respond directly to individuals. All calls/emails/letters will be logged, with details published in the Consultation Report. Translation /large print requests We need to agree how we will deal with translation / large print requests if appropriate, Requests will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
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2) Invitation Letter
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3) Stakeholder/Interest Groups Letter
Name Address Email
Date Dear Brent Cross London development – consultation on Phase 1B (North) Reserved Matters Applications As you may know, in July 2014 Hammerson and Standard Life Investments secured outline planning permission to modernise and redevelop the 40 year old Brent Cross Shopping Centre into a world-class shopping and leisure destination. Hammerson and Standard Life Investments are now working up detail designs for the Brent Cross London development, with a view to submitting reserved matters planning applications to the London Borough of Barnet in spring 2017. Brent Cross London forms part the northern section of the wider regeneration of 370 acres at Brent Cross, which is being carried out through an integrated masterplan. The plans act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the wider Brent Cross area and will encompass significant upgrades to the local transport network, enhancements of public spaces and significant employment opportunities. Ahead of submitting the planning applications, our two companies (with specialists from our project development team) will be sharing the plans for Brent Cross London with the local community and other interested parties through a series of public exhibitions: o Thursday, 3rd November – Sunday, 6th November at the Brent Cross Shopping Centre o Monday, 7th November – Tuesday, 8th November at the Hendon Leisure Centre As the MP/GLA member/Minister, we would welcome the opportunity to personally brief you on the proposals ahead of the public consultation in November and we will be in touch shortly to arrange a convenient time to meet. In the meantime, if you have any questions about Brent Cross London and/or would like to propose a date to meet us over the next few weeks, please contact Paul Taylor on 020 3170 8466 / [email protected]
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We look forward to meeting with you in due course. Yours sincerely,
Mike McGuiness John Brophy Development Director, Hammerson plc Development Manager, Standard Life Investments
Brent Cross London c/o Hammerson plc | Kings Place | 90 York Way | London | N1 9GE 020 7887 1000
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4) Local Councillors/Politicians Letters
28thSeptember 2016
Dear XXX
Brent Cross London development – consultation on Phase 1B (North) Reserved Matters Application As you know, Hammerson and Standard Life Investments have outline planning permission to modernise and redevelop the 40 year old Brent Cross Shopping Centre into a world-class shopping and leisure destination as part of the wider regeneration of Brent Cross Cricklewood. Hammerson and Standard Life Investments are now working up detailed designs for Phase 1B of the regeneration which comprises the Brent Cross London development, with a view to submitting a reserved matters (detailed) planning application to the London Borough of Barnet in spring 2017. Brent Cross London forms the northern section of the regeneration masterplan for Brent Cross Cricklewood, which is overseen by Barnet Council and involves our two companies, and other parties including Argent Related and Network Rail. Ahead of submitting the reserved matters planning application for Brent Cross London to Barnet Council, we will be sharing our plans with the local community and other interested parties through a series of public exhibitions: o Thursday, 3rd November – Sunday, 6th November at the Brent Cross Shopping Centre
o Monday, 7th November – Tuesday, 8th November at the Hendon Leisure Centre Given Camden Council’s interest, we would welcome the opportunity to personally brief you on our plans ahead of the period of public consultation that goes live on Thursday, 20th October; we will be in touch shortly to arrange a convenient time to meet. In the meantime, if you or your fellow councillors have any questions about Brent Cross London and/or you would like to propose a date to meet us over the next few weeks, please contact Paul Taylor on 020 3170 8466 / [email protected] . We look forward to meeting with you in due course. Yours sincerely,
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5) Exhibition Boards
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6) Photos from the Exhibition
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Photos from Hendon Leisure Centre
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7) Video from the exhibition
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8) Website Homepage
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About
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Brent Cross London
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Public Realm
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Community Commitment
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Sustainability
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Homes
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Wider Master Plan
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Have Your Say
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Exhibitions
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FAQs
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News
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Image Library
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Partners
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9) Poster
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10) Advert
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11) Press Release
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12) Press Coverage
Hendon Press – 3 November 2016
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Edgware Today (Web) – 31 October 2016
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Estates Gazette – 29 October 2016
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Building – 28 October 2016
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City A.M. – 25 October 2016
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24 October 2016 – London Evening Standard
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CoStar UK (Web) – 24 October 2016
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Hampstead and Highgate Express (Web) – 24 October 2016
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Property Week – 21 October 2016
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Drapers – 9 September 2016
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13) Social Media Examples
Facebook page and posts
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Twitter page and posts
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14) Retailers; Letters
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15) Feedback form
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16) Sturgess Park Consultation – letter, plan and feedback form
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17) Sturgess Park Consultation – poster
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Memorandum
To Tony Gallagher, Quod Date 27 April 2017 From Neil Smith Job no 035412 Copied to Michael
Freeley, Hammerson Subject CAF Summary
This memorandum summarises the issued that have been raised by the Brent Cross Cricklewood
Consultative Access Forum (CAF) during meetings in relation to the preparation of the Reserved
Matters Application for Phase 1B North. CAF have met four times (20.07.16. 18.08.16, 27.10.17
and 30.01.17) to review the design development of Phase 1B North, including the external and
internal circulation of the shopping centre, car parking, cycle parking and drop-off provision, the
design of the bus station, the internal facilities to be provided and the shopmobility service. Prior
to these meetings, a training session on reading and understanding plans was provided for CAF
members. The purpose of the training was to assist CAF members in being more effective in
reviewing plans and therefore being able to engage with the design teams more effectively during
the consultation process. The minutes of the meetings are appended for reference. The table
below identifies the issue raised and where relevant, how the design has changed as a result.
Further actions are also identified for both CAF and the Development Partners where relevant.
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Brent Cross Cricklewood Consultative Access Forum
Minutes of the meeting 20 July 2016, 10.00am – 1.00pm Held at: Brent Cross Shopping Centre,
Management Suite, Hendon, NW4 3FP Chair: Tracey Proudlock Members: 1. Bill Hayford, Retail
Trust 2. Michael Henriques, Barnet Borough Sight Impaired 3. Benji Lanzkron, Peoples Choice,
Barnet Centre for Independent Living 4. Michael Freeley, Hammerson plc 5. Shams Namazie,
London Borough of Barnet 6. Jeanette Thornhill, Barnet Access Group 7. Neil Smith, Buro Happold
8. Alex XXX, Buro Happold
Other attendees: Shilpa Shah support workers. Apologies: Cissie Freilich, Independent Living
Alternatives; Jo Harper, Barnet and South Herts MS Society Presenters: Richard Harding and Alex
Chapman Taylor
1 Chair’s introductions and welcome Tracey Proudlock welcomed everyone to the meeting,
including new member Shams Namazie from the London Borough of Barnet Planning Department.
There was a note of thanks to Neil S and Alex for the recent CAF training day. 2 Minutes of the last
meeting The minutes were approved. 3 Matters Arising a) Brent River Park (BRP) Phase 1AN: the
central section of the BRP, Reach 2. At a meeting of 9 July 2015 Macgregor Smith presented the
proposals for this area, CAF members would like to remind the developers that colour and visual
contrast can a helpful way to assist a range of disabled people with wayfinding. The plans, as of
July 2015 featured paving slabs in some of the areas, CAF asked if this could be remodelled to
provide better wayfinding and assist with navigation. – Action Chapman Taylor, Hammerson and
Buro Happold b) Step free access to the Riverside Walkway. CAF members were pleased to learn
that there had been agreement for a lift to the lower walkway level. Further surveys and risk
assessments were still required by the developers to ensure that a lift was suitable for this
location. CAF would like to be kept up to date with these risk assessments and
surveys; this lift is a valuable feature of the riverside walkway. – Action Chapman Taylor,
Hammerson and Buro Happold and Tracey P 4 Development Overview and Update
John Harding and Mike F provided a valuable overview of the scheme, roads, approaches and
details of how people will arrive at Brent Cross Shopping Centre (car parking and bus station). This
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was not a detailed design discussion, it provided CAF members an opportunity to feedback on
design concepts. Summary of the main discussion points A) Disabled people arriving at the new
bus station may find it difficult to walk the long distance to the Shopmobility service. B) Some
CAF members use Shopmobility now and find it very valuable and would like to thank Hammerson
and Brent Cross for this. CAF asked: how do we know that this service is able to cope with
potential increase in demand? C) Where are the accessible toilets, including the new Changing
Places Toilet to be located? D) Can the developer tell CAF the number (and the percentage) of
accessible parking bays currently at the shopping centre and how this number and percentage
may change during the refurbishment? E) How might new technology be used to deliver accessible
car parking, for example access control system (number plate recognition, pay points and
barriers)? F) Shared surfaces can be a barrier for some disabled people, careful attention needs to
be paid to effective use of colour, visual contrast, delineator and tactile safe zones. CAF would like
to get an update on how shared surfaces will be designed in the development. G) CAF would like
to see the proposed new cinema provides inclusive design and good choices for all disabled
people. H) Has the London Borough of Barnet set any guidance or requirements on the
developers to charge users of the Brent Cross Shopping Centre car park? Does this requirement
include disabled people who hold a valid Blue Badge?
- Action Chapman Taylor, Hammerson, LB Barnet, Buro Happold and Tracey P
5 Any other business There was no other business although Neil S would like to remind everyone
that National Paralympic Day takes place on 3 September 2016, here is a link to it
http://tinyurl.com/hbbffew – Action All Members enjoy yourselves and get out more 6 Dates
for future meetings
These are the dates for the next two meetings that will take place at the Management Suite of
Brent Cross Shopping Centre: 1. Thursday 18 August 2016 10am-1pm 2. Monday 19 September
2016 10am-1pm
Brent Cross Cricklewood Consultative Access Forum
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Minutes of the meeting 18 August 2016, 10.00am – 1.00pm Held at: Brent Cross Shopping Centre,
Management Suite, Hendon, NW4 3FP Chair: Tracey Proudlock Members: 1. Ruth Bailey
2. Bill Hayford, Retail Trust
3. Michael Henriques, Barnet Borough Sight Impaired 4. Benji Lanzkron, Peoples Choice, Barnet
Centre for Independent Living
5. Michael Freeley, Hammerson plc
6. Shams Namazie, London Borough of Barnet
7. Jeanette Thornhill, Barnet Access Group
8. Cissie Freilich, Independent Living Alternatives;
9. Jo Harper, Barnet and South Herts MS Society
10. Neil Smith, Buro Happold
11. Other attendees: Shilpa Shah support workers; Tony Gallagher, Quod, Deborah Abidakun, Buro
Happold
Apologies: Presenters: John Harding and Alex Chapman Taylor 1 Chair’s introductions and
welcome Tracey Proudlock welcomed everyone to the meeting. 2 Minutes of the last meeting The
minutes were approved. 3 Matters Arising a) Bus Station. John H confirmed that to meet the
needs of a range of users there would be a mix of seating types and styles, some seats with arms
and some without, there would also be perching stools. The majority of seating at the bus station
would be under cover. b) Furniture at the bus station was designed not to impede or get in the
way of bus ramps being used at boarding and alighting zones. c) The bus station design and
facilities provided there was largely being led by Transport for London. – Action Tracey P to send
details of TfL’s Independent Disability Advisory Group to Hammerson. d) Car parking. John H
confirmed there would be 6% blue badge, accessible parking bays across the new car parks.
Accessible parking spaces would not be on every level, there would be clusters of parking.
e) Mike F indicated that Hammerson would be working towards best practice and would seek to
use new technology such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition to assist people use the car
parks more easily. f) The location of the Changing Places WC had not been decided. - Action
Chapman Taylor, Hammerson and Buro Happold g) Shams N from the London Borough of Barnet
confirmed that there was no planning requirement for the developers to charge blue badge users
for use of the Brent Cross Shopping Centre car park.
4 Shopmobility Those CAF members that used the Shopmobility service said that they had found
it to be a tremendous help and valued the service. However, they were concerned that the
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existing service might not be big enough to meet the needs of extra visitors that were anticipated
to use the shopping centre after the refurbishment and extension. Most people arriving at Brent
Cross wanting to use Shopmobility will arrive by car. It is important to have dedicated parking for
this service nearby. However, it was understood that some disabled people arriving at the bus
station would find it difficult to walk to the Shopmobility store in its current location. The
distance was too long. CAF members asked the developer to review the Shopmobility location, its
size and the facilities on offer there. Mike F agreed to meet with Shopmobility managers and
feedback at the next meeting about how the scheme will be operated after the refurbishment. -
Action Hammerson and Tracey P 5 Presentation from Chapman Taylor – Shopping Centre internal
layout John Harding’s presentation indicated the position of lifts and escalators and the walking
distance between them. CAF members wanted to emphasise that as the shopping centre
expanded it was important for disabled people to find their way around and use the new areas
comfortably. Having a range of facilities suitably spaced apart would be essential. Please bear in
mind the distances between such key facilities as toilets, lifts and seating. The current design
shows that walking distances between lifts would be too great for some to cope with
comfortably.- Action Chapman Taylor, Hammerson CAF members asked that where possible the
refurbished shopping centre did not rely on platform lifts for changing levels and moving between
floors but to have a natural change accommodated by ramps. - Action Chapman Taylor,
Hammerson CAF members asked that viewing galleries and balconies within the shopping centre
keep good viewing points so disabled visitors did not have sightlines blocked by panels, railings.
There is to be a new hotel. CAF members asked if the hotel operator would provide bedroom
hoists. – Action Tracey P provide to Chapman Taylor information about hoists in hotel bedrooms.
6 Any other business 7 Dates for future meetings The date for the next meeting that will take
place at the Management Suite of Brent Cross Shopping Centre: 27th October, 2016 10.00am –
1.00pm
Brent Cross Cricklewood Consultative Access Forum
Minutes of the meeting 27 October 2016, 10.00am – 1.00pm Held at: Brent Cross Shopping Centre,
Management Suite, Hendon, NW4 3FP Chair: Tracey Proudlock Members: 1. Ruth Bailey 2. Karl
Farrell, London Society for the Blind 3. Michael Henriques, Barnet Borough Sight Impaired 4. Benji
Lanzkron, People’s Choice, Barnet Centre for Independent Living (& support worker)
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5. Michael Freeley, Hammerson plc 6. Shams Namazie, London Borough of Barnet 7. Jeanette
Thornhill, Barnet Access Group
8. Jo Harper, Barnet and South Herts MS Society 9. Rachel Smalley, Greater London Authority 10.
Neil Smith, Buro Happold
Other attendees: Louise Hambleton, Quod; Alexander Matthams, Buro Happold, Kamran Mallick,
Barnet resident. Apologies: None. Presenters: John Harding, Chapman Taylor, James Richer,
MacGregor Smith and Nick Guy, CRTKL 1 Chair’s introductions and welcome Tracey Proudlock
welcomed everyone to the meeting, including guest Kamran Mallick a Barnet resident who is
interested to find out more about the CAF. 2 Minutes of the last meeting Karl Farrell asked that
the minutes from the last meeting be corrected to show that he did attend, his name is missing.
The minutes were approved. 3 Matters Arising a) Bus Station. John H confirmed that the bus
station would now have seating that would be greater in distribution and there would be less
range of seating than previously reported. This was disappointing CAF - would have preferred to
have a good range of seating and perching stools, evenly and well-spaced to help older and
disabled users of the bus station. b) John H confirmed that there would be an accessible WC in the
western end route entering the shopping centre. The accessible WCs would not contain a baby
change facility.
c) CAF wanted to remind the developers and Transport for London that overcrowding can be a
problem as too many people on platforms can get in the way of bus ramps being used at boarding
and alighting zones.
4 Shopmobility At previous meetings CAF members had asked the developer to review the
Shopmobility location, its size and the facilities on offer there. Mike F updated the CAF with news
that the Shopmobility scheme would be enlarged by a factor of 1.75 in floor area and products. A
satellite hub had been identified in the southern end car park on level 1. This was near to the bus
station but the buses arrival was on a lower level and people leaving the bus station to get to
Shopmobility would have to use a lift to travel up 2 levels. There is the possibility for future
expansion if required. CAF members asked how Shopmobility members would be able to use
scooters for visiting the cinema because the cinemas tended to be open later into the evening
when schemes close. Mike F suggested this might be a question for the Estate Management
Framework. - Action Hammerson. Shams from LB Barnet reminded CAF that there would be
annual reviews of Shopmobility services to ensure that the service kept up with the needs of
customers as the shopping centre expanded – Action Hammerson. Benji asked if the developer
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could investigate using more Easy Read for its maps and instructions on finding your way around.
– Action Hammerson. Karl suggested that staff working on Shopmobility should have disability
equality training – Action Tracey P and Hammerson Mike F asked that CAF write a good practice
guide about Shopmobility services and things members would find helpful. – Action Tracey P and
all CAF members. Car Parking Rachel S asked that the developer review the images of the parking
because they needed to provide the right dimensions and a safety hatched zone around the bays.
Action - Chapman Taylor and Hammerson. 5 Presentation from Chapman Taylor Residential
Housing (Plot 113) John Harding’s presentation showed a small residential development of around
50 units arranged in 4 blocks. There were no details available about the split between different
types of housing (ie social housing, affordable and private). Each block had a lift and accessible
parking for disabled tenants. CAF recommended that the developer make sure that the lift
maintenance company chosen be on a rapid response agreement to ensure that broken lifts didn’t
leave disabled people unable to leave their homes. Action Hammerson. Rachel S asked that the
developer review the images of the parking because they needed to provide the right dimensions
and a safety hatched zone around the bays. Action Chapman Taylor and Hammerson. There was a
discussion about the zebra crossing from this housing into the shopping centre over a perimeter
road. CAF recommended that the crossing be improved to provide better protection for
pedestrians. Mike F agreed to look again at this. – Action Hammerson. Riverside Walk Way
The lift down to the Riverside Walk Way would be a 21 person lift suitable for taking mobility
scooters. An evacuation plan in the case of floods and other emergencies needs to be developed
and agreed. – Action LB Barnet and Hammerson. 6 Presentation from CRTKL Changing Places WC
This would be in the central toilet block for ease of access/availability. Internal Corridors Rachel S
suggested that lifts appear to be off the main corridors. Escalators, lifts and stairs needed to be
more closely co-located ie all next to each other or within sight of each other. – Action CRTKL 7
Presentation from MacGregor Smith 8 Overall Scheme Review Several matters of importance to
disabled customers had yet to be discussed by the CAF. Mike asked that Tracey P prepare a list of
outstanding matters that need to be discussed before the reserved matters application is
submitted. For example, the toilet strategy still needs to be agreed by CAF. Action – Tracey P 9
Any other business None. 10 Dates for future meetings The date for the next meeting was not
agreed but it would likely to be in December 2016 at the Management Suite of Brent Cross
Shopping Centre.
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Brent Cross Cricklewood Consultative Access Forum
Minutes of the meeting 30 January 2017, 10.00am – 1.00pm
Held at: Brent Cross Shopping Centre, Management Suite, Hendon, NW4 3FP Chair: Tracey
Proudlock Members: 9. Ruth Bailey
10. Karl Farrell, London Society for the Blind
11. Michael Henriques, Barnet Borough Sight Impaired 12. Benji Lanzkron, People’s Choice, Barnet
Centre for Independent Living (& support worker)
13. Michael Freeley, Hammerson plc
14. Shams Namazie, London Borough of Barnet
15. Jeanette Thornhill, Barnet Access Group
16. Jo Harper, Barnet and South Herts MS Society
17. Rachel Smalley, Greater London Authority
18. Neil Smith, Buro Happold
Other attendees: Louise Hambleton, Quod; Alexander Matthams, Buro Happold. Apologies: Bill
Hayford. Presenters: John Harding, Chapman Taylor, James Richer, MacGregor Smith and Nick
Guy, CRTKL
1. Chair’s introductions and welcome
Tracey Proudlock welcomed everyone to the meeting and also thanked them for their support. 2.
Minutes of the last meeting
All members went through the actions of the last meeting and provided an update. 3. Matters
Arising
a. Mike Freeley confirmed that there would be some access points into the shopping centre would
be open 24 hours. However, (this is anticipated) as a formal decision has not yet been taken. b.
Mike Freeley confirmed that Hammerson continues to investigate new technologies such as
Google Maps, phone applications to enable visitors to receive information on their mobile phones
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to assist with navigation. Tracey Proudlock to meet with The Oracle in Reading to find out details
about the new technology they are trialling. Action for Tracey P. c. Rachel Smalley also to confirm
the existing conditions of the way finding access strategy. Action for Rachel S. d. Mike Freeley
reported that Hammerson staff at Brent Cross shopping centre staff had received disability
equality training. e. Mike F asked that CAF write a good practice guide about Shop mobility
services and things members would find helpful to help inform detailed design & operational
practice at Brent Cross Action Tracey P and all CAF members. Update: On-going. f. Car Parking
designs are still in progress however the position of suitable inclusive access bays has been
reviewed as part of the consultation process Action - Chapman Taylor and Hammerson & S.L. a.
Rachel asked if more disabled spaces could be provided in the future if needed? Action for Mike F
to check.
Presentation from Macgregor Smith 4. Seating Terrace
a. There needs to be improved access for wheelchair users at the top and bottom of this Seating
Terrace located on the Riverside Walk. There was a group discussion about how to do this and it
was agreed that the developer would review and improve the design. Action The Developers
Hammerson and Standard Life.
5. Riverside Walk Way
a. An emergency evacuation plan has not been agreed yet between the London Borough of Barnet
and the developers. John confirmed that an evacuation plan would be developed as part of the
detailed design and this needed to be agreed
with LBB emergency evacuation officer. If there is a change of plans, they will be shared with the
group. b. Seating to be 50m a part maximum.
6. Tactile Paving & Pedestrian Crossings
a. There was a discussion about the number of controlled vs uncontrolled crossings on the site and
the zebra crossing from this housing into the shopping centre over a perimeter road. CAF
recommended that the crossing is improved to provide better protection for pedestrians. Mike F
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advised that the roads and associated crossings for which approval had been already obtained and
for which safety audits had been undertaken and approved by the highways department as part of
the approval process agreed to Contact AECOM the designer and provide clarification on how the
safety audit was carried out and get a note prepared which would be forwarded to CAF to provide
more assurance on this matter. Mike F undertook to get AECOM to look at the crossing on the
western side of the development to the proposed JL car park. There was also a discussion about
the Bus Station crossing which Mike F advised had been the subject of considerable discussions
with TFL & following a safety audit of the design adjustments had been made to sight lines to
improve pedestrian safety. – Action The Developers Hammerson and Standard Life.
Presentation from Chapman Taylor 7. Residential Housing (Plot 113)
b. John Harding’s presentation showed a small residential development of around 50 units
arranged in 4 blocks. All built to Lifetime Homes standards and with 10% wheelchair adaptable.
Each block had a lift and accessible parking for disabled tenants. CAF recommended that the
developer selects a rapid response lift maintenance to ensure that broken lifts do not leave
disabled people unable to leave their homes. Action The Developers Hammerson and Standard
Life. c. Rachel S asked that the developer review the images of the parking because they needed to
provide the right dimensions and a safety hatched zone around the bays. The spaces which have
been provided are compliant Action Chapman Taylor and Hammerson.
8. Bus Station
a. Rachel suggested that the developer use colour and visual contrast in the paving’ to assist
people using the bus station. John Harding advised that the paving’s specification had largely been
set and agreed with TFL to their standard specifications. It was noted that the correct use of colour
and visual contrast can
assist with wayfinding. Be careful not to provide confusing patterns that hinder and cause
confusion. John Harding advised that paving would be contrasted to break up the expanse of the
paving. b. Rachel pointed out that toilets will need to be accurately signed and to indicate whether
the accessible WC was left or right handed. This was agreed Action The Developers Hammerson
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and Standard Life. c. “Legible London” is the Transport for London adopted signage scheme which
is required to comply with the planning consent. CAF members are disappointed that this signage
scheme lacks tactile or braille information.
Presentation from CRTKL 9. Internal Corridors
a) Rachel S commented upon the need for lifts to be located not too far away from main corridors.
Escalators, lifts and stairs needed to be closely co-located ie all next to each other or within sight
of each other. As a result of previous discussion around this matter Nick said there was one area
on the layouts where there had been slight adjustment. All of the lift & escalator positions have
now been fixed – Action CRTKL.
10. Seating overlay
a. Nick to provide a diagram showing the seating overlay. New action for CRTKL b. A map to show
all entrances and exits to the shopping centre would be beneficial to shop mobility users when the
designs are further developed Action The Developers Hammerson and Standard Life.
11. Hotel
a. Rachel asked that the revolving doors into the hotel be removed and replaced with a design to
show one entry point that was used by all visitors. The GLA endeavours to meet the highest level
of inclusive design in all matters and revolving doors with side pass are not inclusive. CAF
recommends one single inclusive entrance (no revolving doors and side-pass). Action The
Developers Hammerson and Standard Life. b. There was a discussion on the provision of either
baths or showers in adapted bedrooms. CAF asked that there be both baths and showers
available to provide choice to customers. Mike F advised this was a matter for the operator who
would comply with need to comply with their obligations under the Equality Act and relevant
good practice standards. It was agreed CAF would prepare a best practice note which Hammerson
will pass onto the operator when commercial negotiations commence with hotel operators. The
hotel should comply with London Plan requirements as set out Accessible London. Action The
Developers Hammerson and Standard Life. c. There was a discussion on the use of hoists in hotel
bedrooms. CAF request that the hotel operator be asked to provide hoists in some of the
accessible guest
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rooms. It was agreed CAF would prepare a best practice note which Hammerson will pass onto the
operator when commercial negotiations commence with hotel operators.
12. Cinema
Three potential operators are in discussion with the developer about providing a cinema at Brent
Cross. Each provider had its own way of providing accessible seating for cinema guests. CAF
members wanted to be sure that the company operating the new cinema would provide the best
possible inclusive designs. It was agreed that CAF members write a short briefing about
expectations at the new cinema. Action All Members to email Tracey with comments to be
collated and passed onto the cinema operator. Note there is no cinema operator on board.
13. Any other business
CAF members were informed that, as the Brent Cross Shopping Centre scheme progressed, they
were more than welcome to keep in touch with the developers and to provide their feedback and
observations on the scheme. Comment can be sent to Tracey Proudlock. It was agreed Tracey
would maintain a role as a link person. Tracey to formally confirm in writing a list of matters
which the CAF consider were not addressed during the period of consultation for Hammerson UK
to formally respond.
14. Dates for future meetings
This meeting was the last scheduled meeting between the Brent Cross Cricklewood Consultative
Access Forum and the developers Hammerson and Standard Life Tracey P would speak with the
developers for Brent Cross South; this is a joint venture between Argent Related and Barnet
Council, about dates and meetings to discuss inclusive design on the southern site. – Action
Tracey P Tracey formally thanked all the CAF members for their work over the last two years to
assist Hammerson and Standard Life with plans to modernise Brent Cross Shopping Centre.