Congestion, Licensing Review and the State of the Leisure Centre
Ethan Brooks, James Jeffreys and John Locker report back
Thamesfield ward councillors checking out congestion on the Putney Bridge Road
October 17, 2024
Dear Resident,
Traffic Woes on Putney Bridge Road
Local traffic has taken a sharp turn for the worse due to ongoing roadworks by Wandsworth Council at the junction of Putney Bridge Road, Lower Richmond Road, and Putney High Street. These roadworks, scheduled to run until December 20th, have already caused significant delays. We believe the timing is misguided, with schools back in session and roads busier than usual. This work is not urgent and should be postponed until less disruptive periods.
Traffic has been a problem since the closure of Hammersmith Bridge in 2019, and restrictions on the north side of the river have only exacerbated the situation. However, the additional congestion from these roadworks is avoidable. We urge Wandsworth Council to halt the work and resume it during quieter times, such as school holidays, and accelerate the process with double shifts, working evenings and weekends.
If you agree, please sign the petition. Together, we will present our case to the council’s traffic team: www.putneyconservatives.co.uk/putney-traffic-chaos.
Putney High Street Licensing Review
Wandsworth Council is conducting a "Cumulative Impact Assessment" to review licensing policies in Putney. As your local Conservative councillors, we frequently receive complaints about crime, anti-social behaviour, and the increasing number of late-night takeaways in the area.
While licensing changes alone won’t solve all the issues, we are advocating for constructive collaboration with the Labour councillor responsible for licensing. We have proposed three key improvements that could significantly enhance the local quality of life:
1. *Earlier Closing Times*: Bars should close by 1am and takeaways by midnight, reducing late-night disturbances.
2. *Delivery Driver Oversight*: The behaviour of delivery drivers in Putney needs better enforcement to ensure safety and public confidence.
3. *Limit Takeaway Growth*: Wandsworth Council must use its planning powers to limit the increasing number of takeaways overrunning Putney High Street.
If you’ve experienced issues related to late-night venues or takeaways, please email licensing@wandsworth.gov.uk to have your concerns included in the review.Putney Leisure Centre in Need of Upgrades
Putney Leisure Centre is a much-loved community resource, but it’s time for a major upgrade. Built in 1968, with an extension in 1980, the centre is showing its age, and facilities are now outdated. We are calling on Labour-run Wandsworth Council to invest in this key asset for the community.
The leisure centre provides vital services, including the only non-private swimming pool in the area.
We have launched a petition to urge the council to make the necessary investments. You can sign the petition here: www.putneyconservatives.co.uk/putney-leisure-centre. Let’s work together to restore this essential community space.
New Butcher on the High Street
Exciting news for foodies! Dugard and Daughters, known for their quality meats, are opening a new shop on Putney High Street. With successful shops in Earlsfield and Herne Hill, they are set to bring top-quality cuts and a friendly, local shopping experience to Putney. Keep an eye out for their opening!
Heritage Lampposts on Putney Bridge
Months after the heritage lampposts on Putney Bridge were removed for refurbishment, we are still awaiting a clear timeline for their return. As your local councillors, we continue to press Wandsworth Council for answers and will update you as soon as we have more information.
Putney Library Refurbishment
Cllr John Locker welcomed the completion of Putney Library’s refurbishment earlier this summer. The original library, opened to the public in 1899, has had a bright refurbished children’s library completed, as well as a new Start-Up Wandsworth co-working space, a quiet study area, and a cafe-style reception included to ensure there’s something for everyone.
Cllr Locker said, “I’m delighted to see delivery of this project for Putney. I have been closely involved in the Library refurbishment, taking part in the bid for central government funding, and signing-off design work at the Council Executive. It’s great to see the finished result and continued investment in Putney Library as it marks its 125 th anniversary since opening. I encourage everyone to pop along and make use of the new facilities.”
Public Consultation to Enhance the Borough's Local List of Heritage Assets
Wandsworth Council has launched a public consultation to enhance the Borough’s Local List of Heritage Assets. The Borough’s Local List comprises buildings, structures and landscapes of architectural and historic interest to the Borough. As part of this consultation, the Council is seeking views on the following:
- Why you think the existing buildings, structures and landscapes on the Borough’s Local List are special. This can include photographs and historic maps.
- Nominate potential new additions to the local list, including buildings, spaces and features of local architectural or historic interest.
If you have any suggestions for new additions in Thamesfield and Putney more widely, you share your thoughts and provide feedback through the consultation portal here. The consultation is supporting the London Borough of Culture programme and will run until 28 February 2025.
The Conservation Team can also be contacted at wandsworthconsurbdesign@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk.
The Jolly Gardeners Pub Reopens
The Jolly Gardeners on Lacy Road has reopened after a month-long refurbishment, offering a refreshed, country garden-inspired look. The traditional interior and exterior have been maintained, with the pub now boasting an enhanced atmosphere. Regulars will be pleased to know that their popular quiz night will continue, along with live sports screenings. The new menu includes pub classics, Sunday roasts, and an extensive drinks selection, featuring craft beers and cocktails.
As ever, please do let us know if there are any other issues we can help you with by emailing us at: cllr.e.brooks@wandsworth.gov.uk, cllr.j.jeffreys@wandsworth.gov.uk, cllr.j.locker@wandsworth.gov.uk.
Best wishes,
Cllr Ethan Brooks, Cllr James Jeffreys, Cllr John Locker
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