Minutes

You Said

Our Response

A resident was concerned about the accessibility of key services for older people (particularly the elderly), noting that banks keep closing down (specifically, 3 banks have closed within a 6-month period). They felt that the closures should have been prevented, as older people typically have difficulty using digital based services, which unfortunately, has become the increasingly prevalent alternative.

Response from: Councillors for Willesden Green

We acknowledge residents’ concerns regarding bank closures across Brent, particularly in Willesden Green. These closures were commercial decisions made by the banks and not the Council. Local councillors raised objections and attempted to engage directly with the banks, but no engagement was forthcoming. Lloyds and Barclays Bank units are currently vacant. A planning application for the former Lloyds Bank site has been approved for an adult gaming centre, following an initial proposal for a bingo hall. Local councillors objected to this and several residents submitted objections. The application was approved at Planning Committee. The former NatWest site has been redeveloped into a restaurant, Awafee, which is now open. Brent Council continues to campaign and lobby for greater local authority powers over high street uses. We recognise the serious impact of gambling and are calling for an end to the “aim to permit” policy, allowing councils greater control to determine and oppose gambling establishments.

A resident mentioned that the High Road is disgusting due to the high prevalence of bins and the liquids that flow from them. They want the road to be cleaner and more hygienic, and asked if the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding can be used to this end.

Response from: Development and Contract Performance (Environment Services)

As part of the NCIL Town Centre Cleansing project, we have got Willesden High Road pavement deep cleansing including jet wash scheduled for early March. We will soon be sending out comms regarding this project. We alsohave some cleansing planned for the Cricklewood area which we are currently in the middle of negotiations with the contractors.