Area Action Group - feedback on key rubbish/streets issues raised

The Area Action Group on Monday was reasonably well attended and Camden environment officers Roberto Molinari and Danny Wilks were excellent in responding to questions and informing people. Key issues raised include:
Difficulties with getting through on the new Camden call centre number and lack of response once enquiries logged on phone or on-line.
Removal of bollards at Goldhurst/Priory junction means vehicles mount the drop pavement, which is dangerous for handicapped people in particular – we are taking this point up with officers.
Weeds in Fairhazel Gardens – officers will get on to Veolia on this.
Street sweeping – with the reduction in street sweeping from 3 times a week to once a week we will notice difference, but that doesn’t mean our streets officers won’t seek to maintain appropriate standards.
Road and pavement works in Aberdare and Canfield (which have been widely praised) have triggered some pest control problems. We are taking up a couple of specific cases.
Housing estates – grounds maintenance contract management is now also under the care of our environment officers, it was agreed there was a need for better understanding by residents groups and TRAs of how this actually works.
Recycling bins are getting flytipping – on the side of Waitrose and particularly at the bottom of Netherhall – officers are taking up
Big communal properties with a green eurobin should be getting rubbish removed several times a week to prevent rubbish pouring out on the streets.
Hedge behind Broadfield estate not being cut back – we are taking up.
Dog fouling – a continuing problem despite the extra bins. Officers emphasised they will issue penalty notices and take action if culprits are reported anonymously. Also comments that more notices needed on estates. One specific plea to get the dog bin at the end of Goldhurst Terrace/Priory cleaned.
Winchester Rd – residents have no bins and never have had. Officers going to look at this.
Problems with vermin following roadworks in Aberdare and Canfield – Camden does have a vermin service.
Winter gritting etc – more salt bins in place and many shovels have been distributed. However the Council has a clear plan with priority roads and doesn’t have resources to do all roads immediately after snowfall. If anyone wants to know where to find the priority roads list online, let us know.
Complaints about noisy street construction work early in the morning. No work other than emergencies should be taking place before 8 – contact Camden noise patrol or your councillors if this is happening.
Waitrose shopping trolleys being abandoned in the Gardens area – officers going to speak to Waitrose on this.
On a more positive note, Paul Perkins, director of the Winchester Project, outlined the new enterprise work they are doing to encourage young people to get into careers and start-up firms.