January update
January update
Parking matters
Pobl was advised of a number of parking issues over the holiday period with vehicles parked in such a way as to cause inconvenience for other residents and road users at Loftus. Guidelines for parking have been posted previously on the website and remain the benchmark for considerate parking at Loftus. In order to address parking concerns we would suggest that in many instances’ neighbours speaking to each other may well resolve the majority of issues with the minimum of disruption for all concerned.
Pobl has received a number of calls and emails regarding parking at Loftus Square. There are instances where residents are required to use flat- bed vehicles for work purposes.
There have been instances recently of vehicles being driven across grassed areas causing damage to the open spaces. We would ask that residents and visitors to Loftus take care to ensure that they drive with care to ensure both that open areas are respected, and damage avoided wherever possible.
Bin collection & storage
There have also been concerns over the storage and use of wheelie bins. The local authority will not empty wheelie bins if they have been overfilled. It is also evident that in some cases bins have not been returned to their allocated storage area following collection. Each property has allocated space provided for bin storage and residents should ensure these are used appropriately.
Gardening Matters
With the new gardening season just around the corner, it is your chance to put your name down for a plot in the Kitchen Garden at Loftus.
Priority will be given to residents that did not have a plot during the previous season. Residents will also need to ensure that they have complied with the conditions of the transfer document, including payment of the estate charge and keeping their front garden neat and tidy.
The maintenance of the front lawn areas will also become a focus for residents and the gardening team. If you would value guidance on how best to prepare your lawns for the spring please contact a member of the gardening team who will be happy to help.
The gardening team have identified further problems with leather jacket in the Amphitheatre area. They are doing a great job of finding solutions to the problem.
The Christmas tree at Loftus was once again a great success and appreciated by all residents. Neighbourhood Watch are to be congratulated on all of their work during the light switch on ceremony, with a special mention for Loftus’ Father Christmas.
Following site inspections it has been decided that the gates and porches of the properties will be painted as the weather has taken its’ toll. A programme of works for this will be advised once finalised.
Estate Charge for 2020/21
Pobl Living is currently reviewing the estate charge for properties at Loftus for 2020/21. Confirmation of the charge, details of payment options and recovery processes will be sent to residents in February in preparation for the start of the payment period in April 2020.
CCTV
The Neighbourhood Watch has discussed the possibility of CCTV and private security patrols around Loftus. With regard to the use of private security patrols this is not something Pobl is considering at the current time. The cost implications and insurance liability issues around this are significant.
Whilst Pobl respect individual residents wishing to install CCTV cameras on their properties subject to the usual consents, Pobl would however need to initiate any discussion on the installation of CCTV cameras covering Loftus communal areas and public open spaces.
The installation of CCTV cameras would of necessity incur significant cost which would have cost implications for the estate charge levied at Loftus. Pobl are also not considering this for 2020/2021 estate charge year.
Feedback
The Neighbourhood Watch have contacted us regarding a number of matters. While it is invaluable that there is an active residents’ group, it is important that Pobl hears directly from residents if there are any specific issues.
Pobl staff will be available on 29th February 2020 between 10.00am and 2.00pm should you have any matters you wish to discuss. Alternatively contact 01633 233876.