FRIENDS OF OLD PORTSMOUTH ASSOCIATION
SUMMER NEWS SHEET 2007

CHAIRMAN'S COLUMN

The new Gunwharf Quays police station at the HMS Vernon Gate in St. George's Road will be operational from September - complete with traditional blue lamps! The contact number is 92 836725 and the sergeant responsible is Ross Freemantle. It is in the refurbished Guard House, built in 1920, opposite the original 1877 Police Office building.

The coming months will see 3 major building construction projects commence in Old Portsmouth. The sites at Point and in Broad Street have been levelled and groundwork will soon begin at the latter and in October at Point. Your chairman is in continuing contact with both project managers. Any residents with current or future concerns on any aspects of the schemes should call me on 92 831461. Considerable thought has been given to truck and heavy plant movements in and around the Broad Street site - a gyratory system will be used so as to avoid dangerous and noisy reversing, with unloading taking place in Broad Street, rather than Seagers Court or on the Camber.

It is not unusual to see contributions from FOOPA members in the letters column of the 'Portsmouth Evening News' - making constructive, valid and informed points about local matters. Sadly, too many other letters published in the paper are irrational rantings, often perpetuating rumours and personal perceptions which do not reflect reality. Inaccuracies and misinformation could be eliminated at source if The News' allowed third parties to respond in the same issue, instead of several days later. Apart from individuals seeking personal publicity, it's hard to understand why people write to their local newspaper, rather than direct to the shop, service provider or local council to ask for the matter to be sorted out by the person who has the authority and means to actually do so. Contrary to what you may think, Portsmouth City Council is exceptionally progressive in Britain for the degree of consultation, access to its officers and the responsiveness to public demands it allows and encourages. When the need arises, residents should take advantage of this policy. For example by, where appropriate, attending and maybe arranging to speak at one of the many regular or one-off decision-making meetings with public access. Alternatively you could contact our local councillors for advice, or call the City Helpline (92 834092) to find out the specific department, officer or contractor to whom your concerns or views should be made known.

FOOPA needs a new Social Secretary for 2008. Brian Davies is standing down after arranging a series of splendid social programmes over the last 2 years. The response to our events is always very good, which makes the role very satisfying. Setting up events is enjoyable and interesting, with no shortage of local venues, topics or speakers to choose from. Please call Brian on 92 788346 or myself on 92 83 1461 if you would like to talk over organising maybe at least the Spring 2008 programme. Or perhaps 2 members who are friends would like to have a go jointly.

David Baynes Visit our website at oldportsmouth.info
Chairman

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