So how safe are Council flats in York?

We’ve been out checking today

Clearly a check needs to be made on those blocks which have not recently been redecorated to ensure notices are up to date.

Fire procedure notice

We think that the housing department needs to proactively communicate with tenants to reassure them following this weeks tragic news from London.

Combustible storage notice

York has relatively few high rise blocks but, even at those with 2 or 3 storeys, checks need to be made on alarm systems, lighting, fire doors and electrical safety.

The results of the latest Fire Service safety audit needs to be publicly displayed in each block

We think that tenants should be offered smoke alarms and free electrical equipment safety checks.

We hope that the council will ensure that both primary and secondary safety requirements are highlighted in any planning decisions made on new or modernised flat developments ( including conversions such as the one agreed for the former Nestle factory as recently as Thursday).

Fire exit direction sign

Finally the Council needs to reconsider whether it should be consulting on transferring its stock into the management of an “arms length company”. This weeks events point to the insensitivity of such arrangements with both tenants and Councillors frustrated at a lack of engagement by officials.

Better to refine the tried and tested Council housing model which at least allows tenants to exercise some control through the ballot box.

The present system is far from perfect but appears to be better than the other available options.

Better football facilities in Westfield

Following a request by the Foxwood Residents Association, a set of goal posts has been fitted on the Foxwood Park. It is hoped that they will attract children away from playing ball games on the street.

Improvements are also in hand at the Grange Lane Westfield Park where volunteers have made a start on repainting the existing goal posts on the site.

Local Councillors Andrew Waller & Sue Hunter are following up a requests from children living in the Chapelfields area for better play and sports facilities. It is hoped that a 5 a side pitch will be marked out on the playing field.

The York Knights Rugby Foundation have already agreed to run sessions in the park over the summer holidays

What’s on in York: Pottery – Just Throwing

West York Adult Education Centre

Mon 19 Jun – Mon 17 Jul :

7.00pm – 9.00pm :

Full fee £190 /State pension £180 /JSA or means tested benefits £180

This is a skill learning course, giving the opportunity to use both electric and kick wheels. We will cover clay preparation, how to centre and throw a pot and how to finish/turn a pot, plus a guide to glazing.  There will only be a max of 2 people per course to give you full time on the wheels and detailed tutor instruction.

Suitable for anyone aged 19 and over looking to gain skills in basic pottery throwing techniques.

Clay and glazes are provided by the centre at an additional cost of £10 per student for each 5 week course.

Please wear old clothes, short sleeved top preferable, jewellery best not worn.

Booking online by clicking here or call the York Learning bookings line: 01904 552806.