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Brentford Dock Official Newssheets

This page contains the contents of paper communications from Brentford Dock Limited and its subsidiary companies. The paper newssheets are scanned, optically converted to text and displayed here. Spelling, grammar and style errors are not corrected.

 

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Communications since 10th April 2001

Date

     Concerning

4 Aug 02 

Marina Club Newsletter & Membership Form II

4 Jul 02 

Marina Club Newsletter & Membership Form

02 Jul 02 

Minutes of Joint Otho Court Block Meeting held on 29th May, delivered on 2nd July

June 02 

Staffing, Grounds, Leases, Signage, Pipework

24 Apr 02 

Budget & Otho Court Entrances

 

Missing Newssheets will be added later

20 Nov 01 

Questionnaire - findings summary

15 Nov 01 

Questionnaire, Security, AGM

7 Nov 01 

Walkway Tiles

Nov 01 

Various

30 Oct 01 

Marina Club Newsletter

29 Oct 01 

Crime Reduction & Prevention

23 Oct 01 

Marina Club News & Menu

? Oct 01 

Grounds Maintenance, Bicycles, Digital TV, Refuse, Keys Staff

 

Questionnaire

? Sep 01 

Marina Club Newsletter Sep 01

5 Sep 01 

Marina Club 21st, food and events

3 Sep 01 

Management & questionnaire

1 Sep 01 

TV Installation Schedule

14 Aug 01 

Marina Club Menu & News

13 Aug 01 

Augustus Close Block Meeting

13 Aug 01 

General

? ? ? 

Marina Club August Newssheet

26 Jul 01 

Staff Changes

24 Jul 01 

Summer Ball

19 Jul 01 

Service Review

16 Jul 01 

Electrical work on Nero path

16 Jul 01 

Marina club membership & chef

11 Jul 01 

Accountant retiring

5 Jul 01 

2001 External Painting Programme

4 Jul 01 

Digital TV Upgrade

21 Jun 01 

Section 20 Notice: Digital TV

20 Jun 01 

Chairman's update

18 Jun 01 

Painting programme meeting

15 Jun 01 

2001 external painting programme

11 Jun 01 

Marina Club membership renewal

8 Jun 01 

Condition of estate grounds

18 May 01 

Scope of painting programme

17 May 01 

Marina Club food service

16 May 01 

Chairman's update - Directors

12 May 01 

Sculptures

11 May 01 

External painting programme

8 May 01 

George Williamson

30 Apr 01 

A Proffitt & D Shavreen's update

27 Apr 01 

Four page newsletter

12 Apr 01 

Marina Club April events

10 Apr 01 

JSS Pinnacle, EGM

10 Apr 01 

Estate Agency, Brian Robson

 


Marina Club Augustus Newsletter delivered 4th August 02

Club opening hours

Lunch time Weds to Friday.

1.00 p.m. to 3.30 p.m.

Evenings Tuesday to Friday

6.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday lunch[time]

1.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Saturday evening

8.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.

Sunday evening

8.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m.


extra opening Bank Holiday August 16th [correction: 26th. Ed]


Club telephone number 020 8847 0353


We now serve lunches from Wednesday to Saturday each week,Also, from

Wednesday to Friday, there is an after work snack service available from
6.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. and a full dinner menu after.
Sunday lunch from 1.00 p.m to 3.30 p.m.

Please return the slips below to The Marina Club.


Please reserve me ( ...... ) tickets at,£15.00 each for the
Summer (Autumn) Ball on September 14th. I enclose a
cheque made payable to B.D.L.S. Ltd for £..............

Name.................................................................

Address..............................................................

Telephone..........................................................


I would like to renew my membership / apply for membership
of The Marina Club for the year July 2002 / June 2003

I enclose a cheque for £20.00 made payable to B. D. L. S. Ltd.

Name.................................................................

Address..............................................................

Telephone..........................................................

 


Open Evening

Friday 16th August

8.00 p.m.
For all current members, previous members [and] residents not yet members
Come along for a general discussion about the club

Voice your complaints and your compliments

Say what you would like to see in the future

Say what food you would like

Say what wines you would like

Say what entertainment you would like

Say what you would pay for these things

Would you be part of an entertainments committee?

plus

Anything else you can think of


Unsigned, undated Marina Club Newsletter delivered Tuesday 9th July 02

Marina Club

MEMBERSHIP

The Marina Club is a club for the use of all of the residents of the estate and is not subsidised from the service charges. It must stand on its own two feet. The membership fees help to assist in this and to subsidise some functions such as the fortnightly coffee mornings, the monthly Thursday Lunch Club and the weekly Mother and Toddler group for two of which no charge is made towards staff and overhead costs and the lunch is provided at cost.

 

Membership forms are available from the Marina Club. As from July 1st 2002 the membership fee will be £20.00 per year per person. This will give members entry to the club at all times of opening. Guests are welcome but must conform to the rules of the cub. Children under 14 must leave by nine o'clock and all must remain in the games area at all times unless dining with adult members or passing through the bar. They may not stay in the bar area.

 

Members will be entitled to attend any function arranged at the published prices. Any entertainment will be subject to the usual rules regarding noise levels, and members and guest attending such evenings will be asked to leave as quietly as possible so that neighbouring residents are not disturbed. Most occasions, other than fancy dress parties, will prefer smart casual wear but is hoped that at least one function each year will call for dress as formal as members possess. Either black tie or lounge suit will be the dress of the day.

 

The coffee mornings will continue during July and August, every other Wednesday, and the Mothers and Toddlers group will be every Thursday as usual. Quiz nights will resume on the third Tuesday every month from September with Andy as the Quiz Master that month. the Twenty dining group continues through the summer, and the Thursday luncheon club will be on Thursday July 11th at 1 o'clock

September 14th with the Annual Summer (Autumn) Ball.

 

A little later this year by popular demand so as not to conflict with the holiday season
As usual the dress code will be the best you have.

Dinner jackets if possible or suits for the gentlemen, pretty frocks for the ladies.
(as has been said before, gentlemen look so handsome when all dressed up. Let's try and show what you can do)
Tickets remain at last year's price

£15.00 per person

and will include music, food and decorations etc.

 

Please return the slips below to The Marina Club as soon as possible.

 Please reserve me (...... ) tickets at £15.00 each for the Summer (Autumn) Ball on September 14th. I enclose a cheque made payable to B.D.L.S. Ltd for £..............

Name.................................................................
Address..............................................................
Telephone.......................................................... ................................................................................................

 

I would like to renew my membership / apply for membership of The Marina Club for the year July 2002 / June 2003
I enclose a cheque for £20.00 made payable to B. D. L.S. Ltd.

Name.................................................................
Address..............................................................
Telephone..........................................................
................................................................................................
 Comments about the club are welcomed whether they are adverse or in favour of what happens there. We take note of them and try to rectify any faults which you may find. For instance instead of closing at 3.30 on Saturday and Sunday afternoons we stay open until 6.00. This was done at the request of members. The club costs about £20.00 an hour in wages and overheads for each hour that it is open. This does not include the cost of any food or drink sold.

Our current menu is fairly basic, again a result of comments by members, but special meals can be arranged if wanted.


Minutes of Joint Otho Court Block Meeting held on 29th May, delivered on 2nd July

 

"Notes from the Otho Court Block Meetinq 29th May 2002

Attendance: Directors: Martin Stone (minutes) Mike Edwards (ME)(Chair)

Jim Saunders (JS)& Mark Dibblin (MD) from Pinnacle

12 residents

 

1. ME opened the meeting at 7.40 pm with apologies from 5 residents.

 

2. Contacting Directors.

Following the recent letter suggesting that Directors be contacted via the office, both MS and ME expressed their willingness to continue being contacted directly by mail, or by phone (during reasonable hours), as well as through the office.

 

It was pointed out that under normal circumstances, problems to do with the service provided by Brentford Dock Ltd should first be addressed to the management office, and then if the response was unsatisfactory, Directors could be consulted.

 

3. Entrance Upgrades.

ME explained that the proposed new entrances (architects drawings and sketches were displayed before the meeting started) would require, because they were deemed an improvement, a favourable vote from Shareholders. Because of an estimated cost per average Otho household in excess of £800, the Directors did not consider a substantial vote in favour was likely at this time following this year's service charge increase of approximately 10%.

 

ME was however willing to take a 'straw poll' at the meeting to test the level of support for the scheme at this time, but that such a poll could only be indicative. Neil O'Dwyer was of the opinion that a favourable vote at this meeting would suffice to commence the project, given that the support at the AGM meeting for contracting with Pinnacle, was viewed favourably by the Board when reaching its decision to contract.

 

ME explained that the Entrance proposal was subject to a decision by shareholders only, including those not living on the Dock. Since there had been no advance notice of such a vote at this meeting, any such vote could not possibly carry any weight. Neil O'Dwyer insisted that a precedent had been set, so ME reluctantly withdrew his offer of a 'straw poll'.

 

4. Pinnacle Contract.

ME stated that the completed contract would be available in the Office for all Shareholders to look at. He provided a little insight into the nature of the contract by quoting some example 'standards' that Pinnacle were obligated to maintain, (including the speed and nature of response to complaints, maximum length of grass etc.). He also indicated the built-in requirement for a specific measured increase in the standards required over the lifetime of the contract.

 

There then followed a discussion by JS, MD and several residents on the merits and scope of the contract. For example, following a complaint about the 'deteriorating state' of the gardens and that 'two gardeners were inadequate in summer', MD agreed that two were not enough for the summer and that plans were in place for additional Pinnacle staff to be made available for the summer.

 

JS confirmed that they would employ enough staff on site supplemented as and when necessary to provide the agreed level of service, and that they would be in breach of contract if they did not do so.

 

The discussion then centred on the financial responsibility within the contract. For example, questions regarding the maintenance of boundary walls, and repairs following a major heating breakdown. JS replied that maintenance and repairs were within the cost of the contract, but not major building works or capital works. He also confirmed that charges for the management of the Marina and Estate Agency were outside and additional to the contract with B.D. Ltd.

 

ME stated that the Chairman had offered, if there was sufficient interest, to join with Block Directors and meet with shareholders wishing to discuss the Pinnacle Contract in more detail. She would be willing to do so on a block by block basis and without the presence of Pinnacle staff. She had set aside the 5th and 6th of June as possible dates. However not all of the six or so shareholders wishing to take up the offer were able to make either of those dates, and all agreed that a later date could be arranged.

 

5. Residents Handbook.

ME displayed a draft copy and indicated that it was near completion. The Service standards elements of the recently signed Pinnacle contract had to be tied in. We were also awaiting legal opinion regarding voting majorities for improvements such as the Otho entrances.

 

6. Extended Leases.

JS reported that our solicitors had just finished clearing a 'bottle-neck' with Offer letters to Leaseholders in other blocks, and that it should be possible to go ahead with Otho Court in the 'near future'. It was also explained that in the mean time anyone involved in a property sale could, with the agreement of both parties solicitors, extend the lease to 999 years 'at the point of sale'.

 

7. Security.

ME explained that the police 'Ringmaster' system was non-intrusive and that for instance, a recent recorded message regarding a bogus caller on the Dock had obviously been useful. It was announced by one of the residents that following a collection on the Dock, £280 had been sent to the security guard following injury whilst on duty. MD added that he was out of hospital and appeared to be recovering well.

 

A short discussion followed on the relative merits of having two security guards on duty, or possibly one and a dog. ME agreed to look into the feasibility but reminded of the need to balance the extra costs that would be involved against the historical evidence of the level of crime on the Dock.

 

In answer to a criticism regarding security of keys within the office, MD said that the problem had been recognised and security was being tightened.

 

8. Company Website.

Four of those present said that they would access such a website. Following a discussion about the contents of such a site, the feeling was that a bulletin board (discussion page) might well be misused by some people, and would require an inordinate amount of time and effort to service and 'police' given that the site would probably be accessible to potential purchasers. It was felt that an 'information only' site was more appropriate.

 

9. Riverside Barbecue.

There had been complaints from other areas of the Dock that the noise, smell, and discarded rubbish were causing problems and that the barbeque be moved to a site where supervision was easier. Given that this could well involve a move nearer to Otho Court, all residents present were in favour of it remaining on its present site for the time being.

 

10 Any Other Business.

There was a discussion on the quality and quantity of information provided as part of the budget estimates. A number of residents were unhappy with the new format for comparing this year's planned expenditure with that of last year and wanted a return to the 'old format'.

 

JS was of the view that the new presentation was actually more helpful and transparent and over time would be easier to compare. Both JS and ME extended an offer to anyone wanting more detail to discuss the figures with JS as he had been intimately involved in the formulation of the budget.

 

Following a question regarding the legal obligation of the Company to provide figures, ME reminded the meeting that in fact there is no obligation what so ever to provide any breakdown of the figures used to generate the service charge, as they were only estimated costs. The company's legal obligation was limited to supplying audited accounts at the end of each year to show how the service charge had actually been spent.

 

Following a question regarding Board Meeting minutes, ME stated that he was in favour of them being published, but could not get sufficient support. It was pointed out that published minutes would need to include gaps as confidential information could not be published, and that 'what was left out would give rise to all sorts of rumours'.

 

ME ended the meeting by reminding residents that the very negative views certain residents had towards the Board and the Company as voiced at company meetings and on websites, regardless of whether those views were right or wrong, were having a very undesirable effect on residents morale. As a result, shareholders were increasingly unwilling to stand as Directors. Sometimes, no-one stands for election and we currently have two unfilled vacancies. In the long term this was not in their best interests or that of any shareholder.

 

The Pinnacle staff left at 9.50pm and the meeting closed at 10.15pm.

 

Yours sincerely

Mike Edwards Martin Stone

Block Directors - Otho Court"

Phone numbers stated


 

Brentford Dock June 2002 Newsletter, delivered on 19th June

Written by: Mark Dibblin, Pinnacle PSG Manager
Staffing
Colin Carter, who many of you will have got to know over the last couple of years, has decided to move on and left earlier this month. Charlie, our long-serving gardener, leaves at the end of this week. Charlie, who will reach age 65 next month, has indicated he intends to take advantage of the summer season to set up his own account. We wish both well.

Pinnacle psg is looking to recruit two new members of staff to the out-of-hours service provided on the Dock. To ensure we are able to obtain the right calibre of staff, a specialist agency has been asked to supply a list of possible candidates. In the interim, Temple Security is providing cover including for Keith Peel who is currently working during the day-time in the Management Office.

Grounds Maintenance
With the recent heavy downfalls of rain, weeds have grown strongly despite copious spraying. Pinnacle is moving in extra resources (at no cost to shareholders) to try and complete the weeding of the majority of the hard surface areas by the end of the month.

Lease extensions
BDL's long-standing legal adviser has indicated he is in a position to deal with further lease extensions and an offer will be made shortly to owners of Julius and Marcus Courts. Otho Court will follow but all shareholders have the ability to participate at the point of sale and can therefore offer their property with the benefit of a 999 year lease. To date approximately 100 owners have taken the opportunity of extending their lease .

Police Surgery
The rescheduled Police Surgery will be taking place on Thursday 27 June 6.00 - 8.00 pm in the [Residents'] Club Room. Barbara Avery our new Home Beat Officer will be in attendance.

Signage
To overcome the difficulties that visitors, trades people and emergency services sometimes encounter locating particular properties, new signage to Galba / Romulus and Numa Courts will be shortly be put up by our maintenance staff.

Internal Pipework
There are a small number of properties which are suffering from internal pipework leaks, for example where balcony drains run under the concrete floor. A specification is being agreed to sleeve the pipework and, if this proves successful on a pilot basis, it will be undertaken on other affected properties.

Going Away?
With the holiday season approaching, a reminder that our out-of-hours service is able - on a short-term basis - to provide an internal property check. This includes the clearance of mail and circulars from sight and the watering of plants if required. If you would like to take advantage of this service please contact Debbie Gillespie at the Management Office.

Community News
St Paul's Summer Festival 22 - 30 June 2002
A week of special events to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the new church and parish centre including:

22 June 3.00pm / 7.30pm

Celebration Theatre Company - presents songs and dances from popular stage musicals

27 June 7.30pm

An evening with Brentford School for girls - a variety of classical and popular musical items

29 June 7.30pm

Singing in the Reigns - West London Opera provides an evening of Victorian and Edwardian entertainment

22 - 30 June

Exhibition of handicrafts

call the Box Office on 8580-5902 for further details of any of these events

 

Do you know your Emperors?

Romulus Court is named after Romulus the mythical founder of Rome who, with his twin brother Remus was suckled by a she-wolf after they were abandoned in infancy. Romulus later killed Remus for deriding his plans for Rome.

 

Numa Court is named after the legendary 2nd king of Rome, Numa Pompilius (715- 673BC) who is said to have instituted the religious rites observed by the Roman priesthood.


 

Otho Court Newsletter delivered 28th April 2002, dated 24th April 2002

All residents Otho Court From your Block Directors

Dear resident,

 

Reminder - Annual Budget Meeting this coming Tuesday April 30th in the Residents Clubroom at 8pm.

For those new to the Dock, the budget meeting is open to all residents including

rental clients and non shareholders.

 

The Board will present an overview of the current finances and plans for this financial year. Management will then explain in more detail the service standards and improvements that we expect to provide during the year, after which the Board will welcome any questions that residents may have regarding the management of Brentford Dock Limited, and the running of the estate.

 

Otho Entrances

As you may know, following discussions at various block meetings, a working group of Otho residents supported by management, have been working on proposals to upgrade the three "entrances" to Otho Court.

 

Initial architectural drawings and sketches have been drawn up, and budget requirements assessed. The scheme as currently envisaged, would cost in the region of £30,000 per entrance.

 

As these proposals constitute an improvement and would be funded from block service charges, the Company will need to undertake a ballot to determine the level of support for such an improvement.

 

The consultation process surrounding the ballot will consider variations to the proposed scheme, and the extent to which any such scheme be implemented.

 

Since the ballot must be for all Otho shareholders, the proposal will need to include a projected programme and finances for all three entrances at the same time, even though it is envisaged that the three entrances, if approved, would be funded and upgraded over a number of years.

 

As you may well be aware, the service charge requirement for Otho Court this financial year has necessitated an increase of 9.37 %, most of this increase being needed to replenish estate reserves.

 

The £20,000 allocated last year for entrances (less expenditure to date) now forms part of our block reserves and would be available for use should the upgraded entrances be approved.

 

In deciding the level of this year's block service charge, your Directors were of the opinion that in view of the increase already imposed, the extra increase that would be needed to fund the entrance upgrades in the event of a successful ballot, would be such that a successful outcome at this time would be most unlikely.

 

Since it is the view of your directors that there is considerable support for an upgrade scheme, a consultation exercise and ballot should proceed at a time when it stands a reasonable chance of success.

 

Towards the end of this financial year we will have a clear idea of the following year's expenditure needs and will review the point at which proposals for the entrances be brought to shareholders. In the meantime we will continue to progress the project as far as necessary at this stage.

 

We recognise that this delay will be a disappointment to many, but equally we recognise the need to act prudently with regard to service charge expenditure.

 

Block Meeting

We propose to hold a Block meeting following the Budget Meeting to discuss any issues related to that meeting including expenditure and the service we are planning to provide, and any other matters residents wish to raise. The Block meeting is tentatively set for [Tuesday] May 14th, further information will be distributed nearer the date, and as always, Mike and Martin are available, should you wish to contact us on these or any other issues affecting the running of Brentford Dock.

 

Yours sincerely

Mike Edwards

Martin Stone

home: 020 8847 2948

mobile: 07720 893 150

e-mail: martinjstone@onetel.net.uk

Block Directors - Otho Court

 

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Service Charge Demand dated 28th March 2002

To: All Shareholders

 

Dear Shareholder,

Service Charge Demand 2002/03

 

Service charge demands for 2002/03 are today being distributed to all shareholders. These take account of:

 

The situation with regard to the last of these is that the two Companies have deferred the target date for the start of the new contractual arrangement from 1 April to 1 May 2002.

 

This company remains committed to the proposal, as does JSS Pinnacle, and both are working towards a contract which provides adequate safeguards for each to operate in a spirit of partnership for the benefit of us all.

 

The deferral to 1 May is partly in response to a request from this Company's staff to extend the period for consultation about the transfer of their employment from this Company to JSS Pinnacle at the start of the new contract. The decision also reflects negotiations between the two Companies around the future division of responsibilities for spending decisions.

 

Fuller information, together with an announcement about the new contract, will be presented at an Estate Meeting to be held on Tuesday 30 April 2002 at 8:00 pm in the Residents Clubroom.

 

Your demands reflect an average increase in service charges across the estate of 9.3%, which will vary according to the size of your property. Directors very much regret the need to raise service charge levels beyond the current rate of inflation. This is however, in large part, to make good apparent under-budgeting when setting the service charge level for this year. In setting the budget for next year, provision has been made for:

 

A spend on estate services of £730,000 and on estate works £26,000.

= £818,000

A contribution to estate reserves of £62,000.

A contribution to estate reserves of £62,000.

 

A contribution to estate reserves of £62,000.

 

 

A spend on Block services of £50,000 and on Block works of £15,000.

A contribution to Block reserves of £90,000.

 

The average monthly charge will be as follows:

 

 

One bed Property

Two bed Property

Three bed Property

Estate services (excluding heat and hot water and works

£80.00

£118.00

£138.00

Heat and hot water

£17.00

£26.00

£30.00

Contribution to estate services

£ 6.00

£9.00

£ 11.00

Block services and works

£ 7.00

£9.00

£12.00

Contribution to block reserves

£ 9.00

£9.00

£16.00

 

The Company has suffered, particularly severely, this year from late payment of service charges by a number of shareholders. This is not fair to the vast majority who pay on the due date and the Board intends to take an increasingly stern line over this in order to enforce prompt payment.

 

The Board does recognise however, that some lessees have genuine difficulty in budgeting for quarterly payments. It is pleased to announce that, for next year, you will be able to pay in ten monthly instalments (as you can with your Council Tax payments). This is providing you do so by Standing Order on the 7th of the month and a form for this purpose will be enclosed with all service charge demands.

 

A reminder about the Estate Meeting will be issued shortly before the event.

 

Yours sincerely,

Charmian Allcock, Chairman.


 

Newsletters delivered between 20th November 2001 and 26th April 2002 will be displayed here as soon as possible.


Newsletter delivered 20th November 2001, dated November 2001

NEWSLETTER EXTRA

November 2001

 

Brentford Dock Priority Survey 2001 : 'Initial summary of findings'

 

Thank you for the very positive response to the questionnaire survey. The response rate is now 45% - with a 38% response achieved by the requested return date. This large number of responses provides a very clear indication of how, and where, we are succeeding - but also, and more importantly, of where we could do better!

 

The key findings, based on the initial 38% of responses received, were:

 

 

Access to services

 

Day-to-day repairs / Cleaning / Gardening

 

 

 

Security / Out of hours services

 

Attitudes

 

Parking

 

Communication

 

Initial response to survey results

 

The Board has agreed five initial action points, while consideration of the findings continues.

 

Service Area

      Action

Target date

Security

  • To recruit two directly-employed "residents' services officers" to provide security cover during evenings and the early hours of the following morning - replacing the existing use of "contract" guards.

January - subject to successful recruitment.

Communication

  • To circulate a regular monthly newsletter - with additional newsletters, if/as required.

December

  • To notify all shareholders and residents of a Company e-mail address for correspondence.

December

Office hours

  • To extend opening hours to: 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

January

  • To remain open during the lunch period.

January

 

In addition, the Board has resolved to give early consideration to:

 

It is anticipated that a further more detailed response, together with a Stage 1 Action Plan, will be circulated early in the New Year. Meanwhile, copies of a more detailed numerical analysis of the survey results will shortly be available from the Office.

 

For further information about this newsletter please contact Mark Dibblin or Jim Saunders.

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Letter to all shareholders and residents from BDL Chairman, dated 15th November 2001

To: All shareholders and residents

15 November 2001

Dear shareholder or resident,

 

Service priority questionnaire

A big thank you to all who completed the recent questionnaire. Directors were pleased that 45% of you responded. Information about the results has been touched on in Blocks where there have been meetings during the last week but the main highlights are that 81% of you said you were satisfied or very satisfied with services.

 

It was no surprise to the Board that security was identified as the service most in need of attention; the Board had already asked JSS Pinnacle, our managing agents, to do some work on this.  As a result, the cost of the contract with the company currently providing security services has been negotiated down during recent weeks but, with the backing of the survey information, we have now advertised for staff in the hope that this can provide a more reliable and comprehensive service.

 

The forthcoming newsletter will explain in more detail how you rated services. This gives the Board a sound basis on which to prioritise services for the future.

 

Annual General Meeting

Arrangements for this are being finalised. The appropriate Notice and supporting information should be circulated shortly.

 

Service provision beyond March 2002

The Board is in discussion with JSS Pinnacle about them continuing to manage services beyond March 2002. We need to clarify the range and extent of services to be included in any contract before this can be costed and a decision taken. We will keep you in touch with developments in this respect.

 

Yours sincerely

Charmian Allcock

CHAIRMAN, BRENTFORD DOCK LIMITED

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Note to Otho Court Residents from Mark Dibblin dated 7 Nov 2001

All Residents

Otho Court

Brentford Dock                                        7th November 2001

 

Dear Resident,

 

Remedial tiling Works

 

I am pleased to confirm that the remedial tiling works to various walkways are provisionally programmed to commence from 15th November.

 

The works will be undertaken by the contractor carrying out the tiling renewal programme to Romulus and Galba Courts.

 

We apologise for the delay that has occurred over this matter

 

Mark Dibblin

on behalf of Brentford Dock Ltd

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BDL Newsletter dated Nov 2001, unsigned, but in the style of Mark Dibblin

NEWSLETTER

November 2001

 

Service Priority Survey

Thank you to all those residents who responded to the recent questionnaire. We will be shortly providing a feedback sheet incorporating suggested priorities arising from the questionnaire.

In the meantime we expect to have responded to all individual queries both positive and negative by the end of this week.

 

Trees

New replacement trees are being planted this week outside the Management Office and the area between Nero and Otho Court.

 

Overflow pipes

There has been a recent spate of faulty overflows. This has caused considerable inconvenience to neighbours as well as the potential for damage to the fabric of the buildings. Our maintenance staff can normally provide a rechargeable repair within 24 hours. Please make use of this service. In the event that overflows are not repaired in a reasonable time period, the repair will be actioned by the Management Office and recharges applied.

 

Block Inspections

One of the improvements we want to introduce is a regular quarterly block inspection. This will allow the opportunity to raise matters in advance or accompany Management Office staff on the inspection.

The following dates have been set for this round all commencing at 10.30am.

 

Marcus Court

8th November

Julius Court

9th November

Numa Court

12th November

Romulus Court

14th November

Galba Court

16th November

Nero Court

20th November

Otho Court

4th December

Servius Court

7th December

Leo Court

11th December

Maurice Court

14th December

 

Accounts - all change

At the end of this week we will be moving the accounts function to the upstairs office. Lynn Laker has now moved on from the Dock and been replaced on a temporary basis by Peter Robinson. We wish Lynn well for the future.

If any one has any difficulty accessing the first floor please contact the Management Office.

 

Dock Road

In order to try and reduce improper vehicular access through these gates, new locks (with hasp and staples) are currently being fitted. If you become aware of any future misuse of these gates please contact Roy Branch at the Management Office.

 

Security - Ringmaster

We are currently developing a number of joint initiatives with local police. This includes becoming part of the local community Ringmaster system. Please take a couple of minutes to read the literature that was recently circulated. It would be extremely positive if we could provide a good take up of the scheme. If you would like any further information before responding please give us a call at the Management Office.

 

Security - Bicycles

In the last newsletter we referred to identifying store areas for bicycles. The first is nearly ready for completion - the `old weights room' at Otho Court. A reminder that once enough spaces are available we will be endeavouring to remove most of the internal corridor bicycle racks.

 

Security - Lighting

Additional lighting works have now been completed to the Marcus Court garage area and adjacent walkway. Following the Service Priority Survey further proposals on upgrades to lighting will be made over the coming months.

 

Digital Television update

Otho, Nero and Numa Courts are nearly complete, with the remaining blocks likely to be finished by the beginning of December. Provisional dates for the last week in November and the first week in December have been programmed for Saturday installations. If you would like an appointment at this time please let us know in advance. As each block is completed a circular from the contractor SCCI will be forwarded on how to sign up to subscription channels.

 

Filming on the Dock

You may have noticed filming taking place on Dock Road the week before last. The Production Company did not have consent. However, the matter has now been resolved amicably and the Production Company charged accordingly.

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Unsigned, undated Marina Club Newsletter delivered Tuesday 30th October 01

 

REMEMBER REMEMBER

THE 3RD OF NOVEMBER

 

FIREWORKS AND SAUSAGE AND MASH

21ST BIRTHDAY PARTY

 

TICKETS £5.50 (CHILDREN UNDER 15 £3.00)

 

7.00 p.m.supper

8.30 p.m. fireworks

Telephone the club on 8847 0353 to reserve places

between 1.00 and 3.30p.m. or 6.00 to 11.00p.m. by Friday

 

OTHER DATES TO REMEMBER IN NOVEMBER

Coffee mornings 7th and 21st November

Quiz night 20th November 8.30 p.m.

Thursday lunch club

Cruising club A.G.M. 6th November

Numa Block meeting 13th November

Marcus and Julius Block meeting 14th November

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delivered Monday 29th October 01

Brentford Police Station,  Half Acre, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 8BH

Telephone (020) 8247 5986/9    Facsimile (020) 8247 5990

 

It has long been recognised that crime reduction and crime prevention are not the responsibility of the Police alone and by working with others, it is possible to have a greater effect in the fight against crime, and tackling the cause of crime.

 

So, together a more open and honest partnership is being adopted with reference to tackling crime and disorder issues in and about the Brentford area, including Brentford Dock.

 

In the past it has been noted that you, the residents are not aware of the full extent of what is going on in the Brentford area, especially where crime statistics and crime trends are concerned. This will now change and there will be more information sharing between the Police, the Dock security, the management staff and you the resident.

 

A way in which we can start this information sharing is with the ringmaster scheme. The scheme is free to join and has already been very successful in identifying suspects for burglaries and theft from motor vehicles.

 

Please take the time to read the form enclosed and if you wish to subscribe then either return the form by freepost, or drop the form in a box that will be kept in the Spar shop and in the management office.

 

In the near future there will be a "Police Open Surgery" at The Dock for you to discuss any concerns that you may have with the local Beat Officer and Crime Prevention Officer. A date for this will be advertised in the near future.

 

Teresa Woods PC 314TX

Geographical Beat Officer

Brentford Police Station

Roy Branch

Acting Estate Supervisor

Brentford Dock Ltd.


Ringmaster Information

Ringmaster

 

Hounslow Borough Police are continuing to wage war against the criminal and we are very keen to harness the eyes and ears of the public to assist us.

 

Hounslow Borough Police invested in the system because we believe it will re-establish and consolidate the important partnership between police and the community which has been built up over so many years.

 

We have invested in a Ringmaster Computer Messaging System which will telephone/fax/e-mail members of the public with a pre-recorded message whenever a crime has occurred in your area which you may be able to assist us with.

 

The message will contain such information as the time and date of the crime and a description of any relevant suspects or vehicles. This will then be followed by a telephone number for you to contact if you have any information which may assist us.

 

In addition if there is a particular type of crime happening in your area you will be informed and crime prevention advice given.

 

How does it work?

Hounslow Borough Police invested in the system because we believe it will re-establish and consolidate the important partnership between police and the community which has been built up over so many years.

 

If you have any queries regarding the Ringmaster system please do not hesitate to contact the Ringmaster office on 020 8247 6443

 

In order to keep our record accurate please notify us of any changes in personal details

 

Please call us if you have any information about crime taking place in your area. Below are a number of telephone numbers that may be of use to you.

 

Remember in an emergency

Dial 999

 

General enquiries

Chiswick Sector Office

Brentford Sector Office

Crime Prevention Office

Hounslow Sector Office

Feltham Sector Office

020 8577 1212

020 8247 6414

020 8247 5986

020 8247 6424

020 8247 6186

020 8247 6301

 

The Ringmaster system is FREE of charge and messages can be left on your answerphone if you are out.

 

Hounslow Borough Police invite you to complete the attached Ringmaster application form.

 

Once completed please return to the FREEPOST address shown on the application form.

 

Hounslow Borough Police

in Partnership with the

Brentford, Chiswick & lsleworth

Crime Prevention Panels

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Arrived 23rd October Undated and Unsigned

This newsletter was written all in block capitals.  Here, the text has been converted to lower case for ease of reading.

 

BRENTFORD DOCK MARINA CLUB NEWS

 

Membership: We have been pleased to welcome quite a few new members recently to whom we apologize for the delay in issuing a members "swipe card". This is due to the fact that we do not have any more blank cards in stock. On attempting to order additional cards we have been told that the price per card has risen from £0.99 per card to a quoted figure of £235.00 for 50 cards, printed with the name of the club. That is £4.70 per card. This is not considered to be good value and alternative methods of identity cards are being investigated. In the meantime would new members carry their membership acknowledgement letters with them for identity purposes pending the issue of new cards.

 

It might be a good time to remind members that this is a licensed " members only club " and membership cards should be available if the police ever decide to check the premises. Please do not forget to sign your guests in as well. The book is retained on the bar.

 

Please also observe the licensed drinking hours, after hours drinking will endanger the licence. We have been warned by the police that they are "watching" the club.

 

Coffee Mornings:  are held on alternative Wednesdays Come and join in the chat with your neighbours - you do not have to be a member of the club to join a coffee morning ( no liquor is served!)

 

Quiz Nights: These are held on a regular basis on the third Tuesday of the month . Diary Dates : November 20 and December 18

 

Cruising Club Meetings: held first Tuesday of the month.

 

Food Service : Our very experienced chef, Rene, is providing evening meals on Wednesday through to Saturday nights from 7.00 to 9.00 p.m. and a Sunday lunch. An example menu is on the reverse.

 

Please help Rene to order supplies by pre booking your table. Please phone him on 07941 466068 or 020 8847 6160.

 

Rene is proposing to offer a traditional 6 course Christmas lunch on Christmas day provided there are sufficient confirmed bookings received by him by the 7th December. The proposed cost will be £25.00 per head. Please phone Rene to discuss with him as soon as possible please. Menu available in the club.

 

If you have not been into the club recently you will not have seen the transformation to the room which Rene has undertaken. Come and have a look We feel you will appreciate the alterations.

 

Halloween: Saturday night 27th October. Witches and wizards come and practise your "tricks and treats" in the privacy of the club. Rene is stirring up a cauldron specially for you.at a set price of £8.50 Climb into your togs and fly over. Book a coven or two now

 

SATURDAY 3RD NOVEMBER          BONFIRE NIGHT.

A combined "celebration" of the club's 21st and the traditional

"bangers and mash" supper and fireworks evening is planned.

 

Tickets are now on, sale, at £5.00 per adult (£3.00 children under 15)

Please book via the club on 8847.0353 during opening hours. By the 1st November please for catering purposes.


 

A Typical Sample Evening Menu

Daily "blackboard" dishes are available as are alternative vegetarian dishes.

 

 

 

Seasonal melon with port  £3.75

Smoked salmon roulade with creme fraiche  £3.50

Sea food stew with leeks and mushrooms  £3.25.


Grilled Scottish fillet steak with a sherry & black pepper sauce  £10.75

Pan fried loin of pork steak with a mustard, corriander & red onion sauce  £8.25

Sauted breast of chicken with lentils & pasta  £ 7.50

Poached salmon with fennel sauce  £ 7.50

fish of the day  £9.00


Summer pudding  £3.50

Chocolate mousse  £3.50

Apple pancakes with a rich brandy sauce  £4.00


Please reserve your table Phone Rene

 07941 466086 or 020 8847 6160.

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Newsletter dated October 2001

NEWSLETTER

 October 2001

 

¤ Grounds Maintenance

Autumn is the key time for grounds maintenance works. Outlined below, therefore, are the main proposed works:

 

The main works required concern the start of a tree management programme. In the longer term the aim is to introduce a regular tree pruning/inspection cycle and the introduction of a tree planting programme. However, prior to this a programme of tree felling and pruning is required. There are a number of reasons for the proposed tree felling including trees outgrowing their location, poor condition and trees suppressing the growth of a better species for example a sycamore at the expense of a bean tree.

 

The attached list has been proposed with the agreement of the arboricultural advisor and will be carried out subject to observations from residents later this autumn. There will also be an extensive tree-pruning programme.

 

We are aware of the sensitive nature of tree felling, therefore if you have any comments prior to the proposed works please contact Mark Dibblin at the Management Office.

 

The following works are proposed:

 

 

¤ Balcony Planters / Geraniums

A recent health and safety audit has identified the need to minimise the risk of balcony planters becoming dislodged and falling. In order to minimise this risk it is requested that the following preventative actions are taken:

 

All planters should be positioned facing inwards and be secured by way of a bracket.

 

Consequently, all residents are requested to have repositioned any external planters and secured planters as soon as is practical. If you need any help in repositioning planters or the provision of brackets please contact the Management Office.

 

On a related matter please be aware that a number of residents have recently reported the theft of individual potted plants from balcony areas.

 

In a similar manner to communal areas, all residents are requested to ensure that planters are properly secured. Please be particular mindful of the location of your balcony and the associated risk to public safety.

 

With autumn upon us if you have a balcony please check that the balcony drain is clear of leaves. At this time of year this often the cause of water penetration problems to neighbouring properties.

 

Do you have any end of season geraniums that need recycling? If so please call the Management Office and we will pick them up from outside your door and recycle over them over the winter via the greenhouse.

 

¤ Bicycle Storage

Over the last couple of months there have been several reported thefts or tampering of bicycles. In response it is proposed to improve the level of internal bicycle storage areas and at the same time remove all the existing external racked areas. The likely storage areas include Otho Court x 3, Romulus Court, Servius Court, Maurice Court and Marcus Court.

 

If you wish to have an internal bicycle storage area please notify the management office within the next month. A communal key will then be issued at cost, which will be refunded on return. Following a reasonable notice period it is proposed to remove most of the external racks.

 

¤ Paved Areas

An on - going programme of jet washing paved areas has commenced, the next areas to be completed are adjacent to Galba, Numa and Romulus.

 

¤ Key holding

On a security related matter we will also be writing to all residents in the next month on proposals to review the key holding procedures.

 

¤ Refuse

Please ensure you do not use the chutes for large objects / boxes. Please place any bulky items outside the palladin area.

 

¤ Digital TV

Works are progressing - a question and answer sheet is being supplied to each block a couple of weeks in advance detailing the various choices available.

 

¤ Staffing

Roy Branch has now taken on additional Estate Services duties. Mark Dibblin will be working on a full time basis from 15 October and will be responsible for the day to day running of the office. Jim Saunders will continue to work on a part-time basis with a particular brief to oversee the on-going service review.

 

Proposed Autumn Tree Works

Block Location Tree Reason
Marcus Court Adjacent car park area Cherry Suppressed tree within hedge
Julius Court Lawned area Maple To improve lawned area
Julius Court Opposite car park Ash - small Suppressed tree between alders
Numa Court Adjacent 16 &18 Ash x 2 To improve lawned area
Numa Court Adjacent 12 Maple Outgrown location
Numa Court Canal bank All small conifers Out of context for location - removal while small
Numa Court Canal bank Sycamore x 3 Self seeding and to allow proper growth of remaining trees
Servius Court Adjacent nos 1 Maple To increase light to adjacent block
Servius Court Adjacent nos 7 Maple Removal of suppressed tree and to allow for shrub planting
Maurice Court Adjacent nos 1 Alder Outgrown location
Maurice Court Adjacent nos 8 London Plane Outgrown location
Leo Court Flank wall Robinia & self seeding copse Suppressed tree and to close to building
Augustus Close Terrace Area Willow and birch Poor condition
Augustus Close/

river bank

Rear of seat Black poplar Poor condition
Nero Court Adjacent Hawthorne x 2 In shrubed area
Nero Court/  

Fountain

Adjacent Lime Outgrown location
Management Office Front London Plane x 3 Outgrown location - two specimen trees to be planted
Galba Court Canal bank Sycamore x 2 Suppressed trees in bank of

sycamores

Galba Court Left hand side of club room Sycamore x 3 Two in lawned area- to allow growth of adjacent Bean Tree
Galba Court Main drive London Plane Poor condition
Galba / Romulus Old play area Sycamore x 3 (part) and middle horse chestnut In preparation of  proposed refurbishment of area - turfing and seating

 

In addition extensive pruning and reduction works will take place in the autumn and spring. A copy of the proposed autumn works pruning works is available at the management office.

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Brentford Dock Marina Club

News Letter

September 2001

 

Remember the celebration of twenty one years of the Marina Club on September 29th [Saturday October 6th] next week. Telephone the club on 8847 0353 or Dilys on 8560 3499 to book your tickets. They cost £15.00 each are free and include a cold buffet supper. We have been given some photographs taken on the opening day but would still like to have more.

 

There are some prints of the dock taken in 1929 showing the old buildings, railways and the surrounding area. The marina area is crowded with barges and the arches underneath Marcus court are plainly visible. These are for sale at £15.00 each and can be seen in the club.

 

£15,00 seems to be the prevalent figure in this letter so,a reminder that membership of the club is only that sum. New members are joining at a fair rate and the lounge area which has replaced the pool table is becoming popular. the beer prices are lower so that a regular visitor to the club will save the membership fee in the course of time.

 

£15.00 will also purchase for you an evening meal. Rene, our chef, is now providing meals every evening from Wednesday to Saturday and also Sunday lunches. There is a choice of three starters, four main courses and three puddings each time. They change from day to day so telephone him on 07941 644068 or 8847 6169 to find out and to book your table. It is definitely best to book early for Sunday lunch.

 

The monthly quiz night was resumed this month on the third Tuesday. Sept.18 then Oct.16  Nov. 20   Dec 18th. The next coffee morning will be on the 26th of this month.

D.E.M. 020 8560 3499.

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arrived 5th September 2001

BRENTF0RD DOCK MARINA CLUB

NEWS LETTER

SEPTEMBER 2001

 

     The club has now been open for twenty one years and we are planning to have a party on the 29th September [Saturday October 6th] to celebrate this milestone in the history of The Dock. Tickets will be £15.00 for members and £17.50 for non members. The doors will open at six o'clock and there will be a buffet supper served from 8.30  The bar will close at the usual time. If anybody who was at the opening in August 1980 has any photographs of the event can we please have them to display for the evening?

     Apologies to the cruising club. Last month it was reported that they meet socially every month but it should have been every. other month.

     Rene, our chef, is now providing meals every evening from Wednesday to Saturday and also Sunday lunches. There is a choice of three starters, four main courses and three puddings each time. They change from day to day so telephone him on 07941 644068 to find out and to book your table. It is definitely best to book early for Sunday lunch. Salads and baguettes daily lunchtime.

     The monthly quiz night will be resumed this month on the third Tuesday. Sept.18 then Oct.16 Nov 20 Dec. 18.

     The next coffee mornings will be on the 12th and the 26th of this month.

     The membership of the club is still growing, more people are joining each month. Application forms are available at the bar for anyone wishing to become a member. The cost is still only £15.00 per person.

     October 21st is Trafalgar Day, so on Saturday 20th we are planning to mark this with an evening of entertainment.

    It is hoped to have a firework display in November together with a sausage and mash supper as in previous years.

D.E.M. 020 8560 3499


21 years of

BRENTFORD MARINA CLUB

THERE WILL BE A CELEBRATION

on SEPTEMBER 29TH 2001

to mark the anniversary of the opening of the Marina Club in 1981

Tickets Members £15.00      Non members £17.50

on sale in the club

includes buffet meal and music

doors open 6.00 p.m.      bar closes 11.00 p.m.

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dated 3 September 2001

Dear shareholder or resident,

Current managerial and staffing arrangements

I am writing to let you know Mark Dibblin of JSS Pinnacle is supplementing Jim Saunders managerial input to the Dock for a temporary period. Mark will be on the Dock two days a week, generally on Tuesdays and Fridays. Jim Saunders will continue to spend two and a half days a week here, generally spread between Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Mark's input - effective from last week - will provide managerial cover therefore when Jim Saunders is not available, including this week and next whilst Jim is on holiday.

 

Aarron Taylor, Estates Supervisor, has indicated he will terminate his employment on 7 September. If you wish to contribute to a gift for Aarron, please do so by means of a cheque made payable to Brentford Dock Limited and marked "AT donation" on the reverse side. Your cheque should please be left at the Management Office by lunchtime on Friday in an envelope marked for Lyn Laker in Accounts.

 

The Board has embarked recently on a review of the arrangements for security and out-of-hours cover. There is a need to define the type and extent of the services expected from both of these. No substantial change to arrangements is expected immediately but the terms on which we contract with the external providers is being re-negotiated. In relation to cleaning services, we did - at the end of last week - recruit two cleaners to fill vacancies which have arisen in recent weeks.

 

Your input to the service review

A questionnaire has been prepared for distribution shortly. A small number of you have made a substantial contribution to the content; some through the drafting stage and some through the "test-run" carried out by ten of you at the end of last week. The finalised version will be circulated to you all. I hope as many of you as possible will complete and return the questionnaire promptly once you receive it. The results will be analysed for an estate-wide meeting to be held in October, following which the Board will be able to use the information to prioritise services and make any appropriate changes in emphasis to the services provided by the company.

Yours sincerely

Charmian Allcock

CHAIRMAN, BRENTFORD DOCK LIMITED

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Undated Newsletter (arrived 1st September)  from Jim Saunders

Digital Television on the Dock

Further to your last Newsletter dated 10th August, I am pleased to be able to set out below the proposed programme of installation works to be undertaken by SCC International.

 

This programme is intended to provide guidance as to target dates for commencement and completion of work to each block. Please note there may be circumstances that lead to adjustment of the programme, weather interruption being the most obvious.

 

Programme of Works

 

Roof Works

Commissioning/Testing (1 day)

Block Wiring

Outlet/Socket

Installation

Otho

w/c 3/9/01

w/c 10/9/01

w/c 10/9/01

Up to 23/9/01

Nero

w/c 10/9/01

w/c 17/9/01

w/c 20/9/01

Up to 7/10/01

Numa

w/c 17/9/01

w/c 24/9/01

w/c 1/10/01

Up to 17/10/01

Romulus

w/c 24/9/01

w/c 1/10/01

w/c 12/10/01

Up to 27/10/01

Galba

w/c 1/10/01

w/c  8/10/01

w/c 25/10/01

Up to 6/11/01

Leo

w/c 8/10/01

w/c 11/10/01

w/c 7/11/01

Up to 10/11/01

Maurice

w/c 15/10/01

w/c 19/10/01

w/c 12/11/01

Up to 17/11/01

Servius

w/c 22/10/01

w/c 26/10/01

w/c 19/11/01

Up to 24/11/01

 

Access to Homes

The above programme allows for 3 separate attempts to arrange access. SCC International will liaise with you direct through the issue of appropriate letters containing contact numbers. Appointments will also be available to you on Saturday mornings.

 

Location of Socket

SCCI will also be liasing directly with you regarding the location of your socket. The only restriction on location is that the socket(s) will need to be located on an external wall.

 

Requirement for Additional Sockets

Residents requiring additional sockets will need to make separate arrangements with SCCI International and will be charged directly.

 

Digital Services

Information relating to the range of services available including free and subscription TV channels and CD quality radio channels will follow as the programme of works progresses.

 

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you wish to discuss the above in more detail.

 

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders

For and on behalf of Brentford Dock Limited

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Undated (arrived 14 Aug)

Unsigned but believed to be from Kelvin Brooks

 

Brentford Dock Marina Club

020.8847.0353.

 

Marina Club Brasserie

We are pleased to announce that as from Wednesday, 15th August, a regular food service will recommence.

 

Rene Rieunier.

With over thirty year s experience in the hospitality industry Rene brings his skills to the club for the enjoyment of members and guests.

 

This experience ranges from the Savoy hotel ( where he served his apprenticeship) to various major hotels in central London. At the age of twenty two he was managing his first restaurant just off Oxford Street. Included in his past was Shepperton Studios where Rene was responsible for the principal restaurant.

 

For over twelve years Rene ran his own restaurant which featured in the Good Food and Michelin guides.

 

Rene will be introducing a new concept at the club ! It will have the feel of a lounge/bar and will have seating for approx. 30 in its informal brasserie style restaurant. Eat at the tables or in the newly created lounge area

 

Rene will be providing food from modern English to traditional British. There will also be dishes from the Orient created by his assistant, Calvin, a half Chinese/West Indian chef.

There will also be some classical French dishes from Rene's roots

 

We are going to be in for some varied food The choice will change on a regular basis.

 

Rene will be starting a diners club and will also provide a full outside catering service, from small dinner parties to take away's to weddings, christenings, anniversaries, etc. Please phone Rene for more details.

 

Initial times and days for food service.

 

Tues./ Wed / Thur / Fri.  Lunch  1.00 to 2.30.    Dinner 7.00 to 9.00 (last orders.)

[BDRW Editor's note: Another Brooks-bungle. Club not open for lunch on Tuesdays.]

Saturday.                     Lunch  1.00 to 2.30     Dinner 7.00 to 9.30 (last orders)

Sunday                        Lunch 12.00 to 2.30     Dinner Closed.

Monday                        Closed all day.

----------------------------------- Page 2 -----------------------------------

A Sample Dinner Menu:

 

Terrine Of Pigeon & Chicken

served with water melon marmalade     £4.00

 

Mussel, Squid Salad

with roasted red peppers & shallots, glazed with honey     £4.50

 

Leek, Spinach & Cheddar Tart     £3.85

 

Warm Smoked Salmon Parcels

filled with apples, coriander & smoked cod     £4.95

 

Mixed Bean, Celery & Carrot Soup     £3.50

................................................................

 

Salmon & Fennel Tart     £9.50

 

Tuna Steak with Caper Butter and Sweet Potato     £11.00

 

Braised Lamb Shank with a Sage & Honey Sauce     £9.00

 

Chicken Fillet with Ginger & Chinese Vegetables     £9.00

 

Pizzas

 

Tomato & Mozzarello

Mixed Pepper, Anchovy & Olive     £6.50

Mussel, Prawn & Tuna.

 

Dock "Bar" Sausage with Vegetable Mash     £5.50

 

Salad   £2.50                                 Vegetables   £2.00

................................................................

 

Summer Pudding

Chocolate Terrine

Selection of Italian Ice Creams

£3.80.

 

----------------------------------- Page 3 -----------------------------------

Sunday Lunch Menu:

 

Mushroom & Coats Cheese Soup

with garlic croutons     £3.50

 

Smoked Haddock & Fennel Tart     £3.85

 

Chicken, Ginger & Smoked Ham Salad     £3.65

 

Salmon & Dill Fish Cakes

served with a cream, dill & tomato sauce     £4.00

 

Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding     £7.50

 

Chicken Fillet With Smoked Bacon Sauce     £8.75

 

Monkfish And Salmon Stew     £9.25

 

above main courses served with seasonal vegetables

 

Vegetarian Pie     £6.50

courgettes, aubergines, mushrooms,& peppers encased in puff pastry & a sour cream sauce

................................................................

 

Summer Pudding     £3.00

 

Strawberry Rolypoly & Custard     £2.50

 

Fresh Fruit Salad & Cream     £2.85.

...........................................................................................................

 

Lunch Time Bar Snack Menu

 

Olives And Italian Bread   £2.50                           Mixed Salad   £2.50

Cut Vegetables With Mixed Dip     £3.25

 

Filled Rustic Bread Or Italian Bread.

Honey Roast Ham With Salad  £2.85.           Roast Chicken, Herb & Salad  £2.95

 

Farm House Mature Cheddar With Salad     £2.60

 

Salads

Cold Poached Salmon   £6.00                    Prime English Roast Beef   £6.50

Roast Chicken   £4.75                    Roast Vegetable & Feta Cheese   £4.75

 

----------------------------------- Page 4 -----------------------------------

 

Important Members Information.

 

It is becoming very clear that opening the club at 12.00 during the week is rather a waste of time as no one comes in. So, as a trial, we are reviewing the opening hours as follows.:

 

Mondays :     closed all day.

Tuesday:      (closed A.M.)                            5.30P.M till 11.00P.M.

Wednesday    open 1.00P.M. till 3.30P.M          5.30P.M. till 11.00P.M.

Thursday                   ditto                                      ditto

Friday                       ditto                                      ditto

Saturday       open 12.00P.M till 3.00P.M          6.00 P.M. till 11.00P.M

Sunday                     ditto                                      ditto.

 

The above will be reviewed in a month or so to establish the demand of members . Note we are extending the opening hours during the week lunch times and opening earlier in the evenings.

 

May we remind members that the coffee mornings are still in operation

They are held on alternative Wednesdays Current dates 15th and 29th August. Come and have a coffee and a chat with your fellow residents. You will be surprised how pleasant these get togethers can be.

 

Quiz Nights resume in September. Monthly meetings on third Tuesday of the month : Sept 18, Oct 16, Nov 20, Dec 18. Pit your brains against your neighbours Great fun evenings, nothing is too hard.

 

Cruising Club Meetings held first Tuesday of the month. Come and join in if you like boats

[BDRW Editor's note: Brentford Cruising Club social evenings are on the first Tuesdays of every other month.]

 

Bank Holiday Monday, August 27th. We will open the club from 1.00P.M. Weather permitting the barbeque will be fired and awaiting your food which you can cook yourself. There will also be a food service in the club that lunch time.

 

Happy 21st, Coming of Age !!!!

 

The club celebrates its 21st in August. A celebration will be held in September, possibly the 29th. Make a note in your diary to come and join in the fun. Details will be issued later.

 

Please support your club and try the new food service being introduced.

 

Book your table now.Phone 020 8847.0353.

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received 13th August 2001

Block Meeting of Augustus Close  Monday 30th July 2001

20 Present + Jim Saunders in attendance

Dear Neighbours

The meeting with Jim Saunders was a useful exercise and I enclose a brief resume.

 

1. Jim explained that he saw the task of JSS Pinnacle to run the estate on a value for money basis and to enable this to be done efficiently it was necessary to get shareholders to clarify what services were required from the management. Only when their aims were clear would it be possible to determine the best possible input. The questionnaire being drawn up with the help of residents was intended to assist in this exercise.

 

2. Another part of the exercise was to examine and review staff issues. The Board had decided on a flatter structure and a new post of General Manager should replace the previous posts of Operations Manager and Chief Executive. The post of General Manager was being advertised but no appointment was expected until later in the year.

 

3. The retirement of Colin Winter in the Accounts Department was noted and it was explained that JSS Pinnacle were responsible for servicing the accounts. Lyn Laker continues to provide and on-Dock presence.

 

4. As to the question of the subsidiary companies, there was no question of monies being taken from the parent company to underwrite any debts accumulated by them. Their function was quite the contrary; it was to supply capital to the parent company to effect improvements that were limited by the terms of the lease.

 

5. T.V.   Augustus Close had not been suggested for the new digital system since Block 10 had no financial reserves but Jim agreed to consider options and report back to the Block Director.

 

6. Painting   It was agreed that the colour of the garage and side doors be decided on the basis of majority choice. Jim would send a letter round explaining the programme for the autumn. The meeting lasted from 6:30-9:30. Our thanks were extended to Jim for the time and effort he had given us.

 

Questions about BDPS and the Marina Club had been previously circulated. The answers provided by the Lead Director, Kelvin Brooks are appended:

 

1. The Directors responsible for supervising our commercial activities are Michael Kerrigan (Romulus), Kelvin Brooks (Julius & Marcus), Dilys Matthews (part of Numa Court) and Mike Edwards (part of Otho Court).

 

2. The issue of an Independent Chairman had been deferred until the completion of the review of our services being undertaken by JSS Pinnacle.

 

3. The appointment of the new caterer for the Marina Club was by the four Directors above mentioned but was subject to more stringent safeguards in the light of past experience.

 

4. The current licence holder of the Marina Club is John Nash.

 

5. The legal reasons that prevented the previous caterer from continuing to perform his duties were the absence of a certificate showing that he was properly trained in Health & Safety and the fact that he did not carry the appropriate insurance.

He had been appointed by Kelvin Brooks as Lead Director.

 

6. The Club's position as regards invoices is regarded as commercially sensitive.

 

7. 168 people have applied for membership and cards are being issued.

 

8. The Club has not entered into loan agreements.

 

9. If the Club could not meet its financial obligations it would shut down.

 

BRENTFORD ESTATES

1. It is being located back to the Dock.

2. The High Street premises are being sold but the details are regarded as commercially sensitive.

3. No loan arrangements have been entered into.

4. The business continues to thrive so that these are no anxieties about its financial status.

 

David A Shavreen

Block Director

Cc:  All Residents of Augustus Close and all Directors

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Dated 13th August 2001 Unsigned

Parking Enforcement - The Council's Parking Enforcement Division has been very active over the last month. Any vehicle parked illegally on the Council's highway (including the footway) will be liable for a fine, payable to Hounslow Council.

 

Awayday - On Friday 17th a staff awayday will be taking place at the West Thames College. Although the office will be closed all core services will be delivered. The security mobile will be covered and the office ansaphone checked throughout the course of the day.

 

Aarron Taylor - After over 6 years service on the Dock, Aarron has tendered his resignation. We wish Aarron well for the future and thank him for his service over the years.

 

Nick Hutchings Memorial - A memorial to Nick Hutchings has been installed in the Courtyard of Otho Court. It is intended that the cast iron arch be decorated with a climbing rose. There will also be an engraved plaque sited nearby.

 

Bikes on Walkways - Residents are requested not to store bikes on communal walkways. This practice not only constitutes a Health and Safety risk but may also damage surfaces being repainted as part of this years decoration programme. Secure storage and designated racks are available on the Dock.

 

Painting Programme 2001 - This years painting programme continues to be delivered on schedule. Comments received to date have been broadly positive. Due to the fact that Augustus Close has greater exposure to the elements, it has been decided to bring forward work on the Close in order to benefit from the good spell of weather we can normally expect in August. This will have the effect of pushing back the scheduled start of other outstanding blocks by approximately 2 weeks.

 

Painting Programme 2000 - Outstanding defects are due to be resolved following the expiry of the Defects Liability Period this month. Outstanding monies owed to last year's contractor will only be paid out following the rectification of defects identified by the Docks appointed surveyors.

 

Digital TV - A News-sheet dealing specifically with the Digital TV installation is currently being worked on. The News-sheet will include details of the proposed programme as well as recommended access arrangements. Works are likely to commence beginning of September and be completed by mid-November.

 

Cats - Cats continue to mess walkways and plant pots. This is both unsightly and unhygienic. The Management Office urges all cat owners on the Dock to be aware of the issues and do their level best to reduce the associated nuisance.

 

Bulk Refuse on Walkways - Residents are requested not to leave bulk refuse items on walkways. If refuse items are oversized for the chute, please place them in the paladin store situated behind the stained wooden panel double doors located on the ground floor of each block. The Management Office will be happy to assist if the items are too heavy.

 

Syon Gate - over the last month the gate has been subject to petty vandalism. This has resulted in the Gate being intermittently out of service whilst waiting for repairs to be completed. The vandalism has since abated although we will continue to monitor the situation.

Unsigned

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BRENTFORD DOCK Marina Club

 

NEWS LETTER AUG 2001

 

Many thanks to all who helped with the Summer Ball. As usual, everybody who attended had an excellent evening. The weather was exceptionally clement which allowed both the patio and the balcony to be fully utilised.

 

Some of you may remember that the marina and the club were opened in August 1980, so it has been running for twenty one years. It is planned to have a twenty first birthday party in September to celebrate this occasion, possibly on the 29th.

 

Members tickets will probably be £15.00, cheaper than the Summer Ball because we are only allowed to have two musicians playing unless we have a special licence which is very expensive. Non members £ 17.58. More news later.

 

Coffee mornings are held every other Wednesday, this week on the 15th and next on the 29th. August Bank Holiday, August 27th. The Marina ddb will be open from 1 o'clock p.m. until normal closing time. If the weather is kind to us the barbeque will be fired up for anyone to use. Bring your own food to cook and plates etc. will be provided.

 

The monthly quiz night will be resumed in September, monthly on the third Tuesday. (Sept. 18 Oct. 16 Nov. 20 Dec.18)

 

The cruising Club have a social evening on the first Tuesday each month for anyone who is interested in boats.

 

A Horse race evening is planned for sometime in November.

 

Any ideas from members for future entertainment will be welcomed. Come to the club and discuss it.

 

The restaurant is now open Saturday evening and Sunday lunchtime, Weds.to Friday evenings also.

 

We still need some one to serve in the bar on Saturday and Sunday evenings. If anyone is interested please come to the club and talk about it.

 

D.E.M. 020 8560 3499

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dated 26th July but not received until 1st August 2001

To: All shareholders and residents

Dear Shareholder or resident

 

A thank you to start

I would first of all like to thank all those who contributed to the leaving contribution for Colin Winter, our on-site accountant. That collection amounted to £200. Directors and staff he has worked closely with joined together last night to wish Colin and his wife, Diane, well for the future as they prepare to retire and join family members in Norfolk. Colin's formal retirement is a few days away yet but our thanks go to him for what he has done over the last seven years.

 

Senior Managerial Change

You may find it helpful to know that the application from the company's Operations Manager, Andy Murray, for the post of General Manager has now been considered but has not been successful. In view of the need to offer early certainty to other staff, the company has today released Andy from his post of Operations Manager with immediate effect. Your contact points within the management team for the immediate future should be:

 

Arrangements will be made to advertise the post of General Manager but the Board will now be considering transitional arrangements to progress the overall service review process pending recruitment.

 

Summer Ball

Please remember this will be happening in the Marina Club on Saturday evening but should conclude by midnight.

 

Yours sincerely

Charmian Allcock

Chairman, Brentford Dock Limited

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received 24th July 2001

BRENTFORD DOCK MARINA CLUB

SUMMER BALL

JULY 28TH

LAST CHANCE TO BUY THE FEW REMAINING TICKETS.

SALES CLOSE ON THURSDAY 26TH

NO FOOD CAN BE GUARANTEED FOR LATE APPLICANTS

 

The band for this annual event is "Fascinating Rhythm" who played for us last year. A good selection of all round popular music. There will be a buffet supper laid out in the board room from which you can serve yourself after 9.00 p.m. If the weather is kind to us the patio will be in use to eat and drink by candlelight. There are only two events each year when you can dress up and show off all your finery. (gentlemen always look so handsome in dinner jackets.)

 

We are looking for someone to serve behind the bar at the club during lunch times, from 12 to 3, Wednesday to Sunday. Should anyone be interested please contact Dilys at No 1 Numa or by telephone on 8568 3499

D.E.M. [Editor: D.E.M is code for Dilys Mathews]

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dated 19 July 2001

To: All shareholders and residents

Dear shareholder or resident,

 

I am writing to update you on progress with the overall service review and to advise you of current staffing arrangements.

 

The decision was taken, early in the year, to invite JSS Pinnacle in as managing agents to provide a presence on the Dock for two and a half days a week. This partnering arrangement is initially for a maximum of twelve months with effect from 1 April 2001.

 

Your Board wants to use this period to get the best from the management expertise Jim Saunders and his colleagues in Pinnacle can provide but Jim has found he has needed to be more "hands on" than anticipated originally. It is for this reason your Board took the decision last month to strengthen the directly-employed staff team by the creation of the post of General Manager.

 

Arrangements are being made to fill that post. The postholder will be expected provide a senior level of managerial input, so freeing up more of Jim Saunders time to concentrate on the overall service review process which is the cornerstone of the contract between ourselves and JSS Pinnacle.

 

Much of the emphasis so far in the review has been on the introduction of adequate and properly documented procedures and contracting arrangements. This has included working with staff on clear and accountable personnel procedures.

 

That work is continuing and a key outcome of the overall service review must be a properly defined and managed relationship between the level of service charges, your current priorities in respect of service standards and the staff inputs needed to achieve those standards.

 

Your Board will be working during coming weeks with the staff to define current inputs and to help them, through training and on-the-job supervision, to deliver the priorities which emerge from your involvement in the service review process.

 

We need to be realistic about how much the current review can deliver in terms of improvements to services and our immediate surroundings. For this reason we expect to concentrate, during coming weeks, on finding out what you think about the following:

 

We want shareholder involvement in the review, so please let Jim Saunders know if there are aspects within these five groupings which you would like taken into account in the proposed questionnaire to be sent to you all. We will try to accommodate any suggestions for which there is a great demand.

 

Block Directors, who can also be contacted through the Management Office, will try to keep you up-to-date and involved as the review progresses. The current Directors are:

 

Kelvin Brooks

*

Julius and Marcus Courts

Mike Edwards

15-38 & 95-110 Otho Court

Ann Proffitt

1-14 & 39-94 Otho Court

Jim Hodder

17-46 & 63-82 Galba Court

1-4, 26-33 & 60-67 Romulus Court

Mike Kerrigan

5-25, 34-59 & 68-88 Romulus Court

Dilys Matthews

*

1-11 & 33-76 Numa Court

David Shavreen

Augustus Close

David Williams

Nero Court

*

Temporary responsibility for the balance of Numa Court

Cllr Valerie Lamy

+

Servius Court and 1-16 & 47-62 Galba Court

Cllr Patricia Nicholas

+

+

Leo & Maurice Courts

Appointed by the London Borough of Hounslow

Charmian Allcock

Co-opted twelfth member as per company Articles and Memorandum.

 

Yours sincerely

Charmian Allcock

CHAIRMAN, BRENTFORD DOCK LIMITED

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dated 16th July 2001

To All Residents of Otho Court

Dear Resident

Please be advised that due to a fault in an electrical cable in the centre of Otho Court, workmen from LEB have excavated a large hole, which will be there for the next few days while the repair takes place.

LEB are intending to erect a double barrier around the hole for your protection. However, due care should be taken while walking in the centre of Otho Court.

Yours sincerely

Andy Murray

Operations Manager

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received Sun 16th July 2001

BRENTFORD DOCK MARINA CLUB

NEWS LETTER JULY 2001

 

Many thanks to all who have renewed their membership of the Marina Club and to those who have given donations over and above the fee required. These monies go towards the cost of running the club. Those who filled in their number on the application form have had their cards updated to give entrance. New members will receive their cards next week. Entrance can still be obtained by pressing the buzzer.

 

We are in discussion with a new chef, Rene Rieunier, but final arrangements are not yet in place. We will let you know more later. In the meantime the barbeque on the patio is there for anyone who would like to use it on Saturday and Sunday lunchtime.

 

For those of you who have not yet renewed your membership, forms are available in the club or in the management office. The price is £15.00 which still gives you time to apply for your Summer Ball tickets at the discounted price of two tickets for £35.00 for members. This annual event is taking place on July 28th this year and gives the chance to show off your finery and listen to or dance to "Fascinating Rhythm" who were well received last year. Ticket sales are limited to 100. Food by Rene.

 

The fort nightly coffee mornings continue, the next being on July 18th. The monthly quiz will be resumed in September on the third Tuesday, the 18th. Club "happy hour" (50 pence off a pint of beer) on Thursday 12th will be from 6 to 7p.m. and if successful will continue from Tuesday to Thursday each week.

 

D.E.M. 020 8560 3499 [Editor: D.E.M is code for Dilys Mathews]

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dated 11th July 2001

Dear Shareholder or Resident

 

Staffing Changes

Colin Winter, the man behind your service charge account will be retiring at the end of July after seven years with the company. We shall miss his ready smile, his easy manner and his commitment to his work. Particularly during recent times, with changes in operating procedures, Colin has worked extremely long hours and his efforts are much appreciated.

 

Although we will miss Colin, we wish him and his wife well with their move to Norfolk to be near their family. We wish them both a happy and long retirement.

 

The Board will be recognising Colin's hard work with a presentation before he leaves/ Any shareholder or resident wishing to make a financial contribution towards this should please ensure this reaches Deborah Gillespie in the Management Office no later than 23rd July. Any cheques can be made payable to "Brentford Dock Limited" but please mark the reverse "CW Presentation" and mark the covering envelope accordingly.

 

Arrangements have already been made for the current years accounts to be handled in conjunction with our managing agents, JSS Pinnacle and Directors hope for a smooth transition when Colin departs.

 

Yours sincerely

Charmian Allcock

Chairman

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undated but received 5th July

2001 External Painting Programme

Dear Resident

Thank you to those of you who took time to meet members of the project management team on the evening of 20th June. In response to your questions, queries and comments, we thought it would be helpful to circulate a further newsletter together with supporting information. The topics covered represent those that appear to be most important to you.

 

Programme

A copy of the contract programme is enclosed for your information. It is intended to provide guidance as to target dates for commencement and completion of work to each block. Please note that there may be circumstances that lead to adjustment of the programme, weather interruption being the most obvious.

 

Lakehouse are of course obliged to write to residents individually, fourteen days prior to the need for windows and doors to be opened. Some Saturday work will be undertaken to assist where residents are at work throughout the week.

 

Resident's Comments

A comments book has been placed in the management office. The book is intended to provide you with the opportunity to bring matters to the attention of the management team. The book will be inspected by the contract administrator on a weekly basis and any matters arising, taken to the weekly site meeting. Please make use of the book.

 

Garage Doors

A number of residents have indicated that they will want to be present when their garage door is open for painting. Others do not wish their door to be opened, but rather painted in the closed position.

 

If you wish to have your garage door painted to a specific arrangement, most logically at the same time as your front door, please enter a note in the comments book or ask a member of the management team to do so on your behalf.

 

If you would rather your garage door is painted closed, please use the comments book to convey the, message. We must make it clear that painting doors, or for that matter windows whilst closed, compromises the quality of the finished job. Therefore, in making such a request, you will be deemed to accept that defects liability on the part of Lakehouse will be diminished.

 

Generally

At the time this newsletter was drafted, we were 2 weeks into the programme. The weather has been good and the work is progressing well.

 

Further newsletters will be published throughout the project. Please do make use of the comments book. It will aid efficient management of the contract and also provide useful guidance against which to conduct regular interim project review exercises.

 

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders

For and on behalf of Brentford Dock Limited

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dated 4th July 2001

Unsigned but believed to be from Jim Saunders

 

Digital TV Upgrade

In 1996 we explored the possibility of Telewest (originally The Cable Corporation) providing cable TV. In March this year they confirmed yet again that the Dock is not included in their "strategic plans for service". In 1996 they did however offer to put in subscription cable TV at our expense. They quoted a price of around a quarter of a million pounds! The cable option was therefore eliminated and an aerial/dish option pursued.

 

The Strategy

Although we do not need to "go digital" for at least five years, there are many good reasons for doing it sooner rather than later. They include:

 

Last year's trial in Julius and Marcus - which was charged separately to their blocks - used recently developed technology called IRS (Integrated Reception System). The trail proved extremely successful.

 

The Services

IRS technology will allow us to use just one cable to offer each property ALL the following services:

1) Analogue TV: exactly as we have now (excluding Sky News and Eurosport as Sky is closing down its analogue service in the near future).

 

2) FM Radio in stereo and mono and DAB Services (Digital Audio Broadcasts) when they become available (requires a "DAB" radio receiver).

 

3) Digital Terrestrial TV to include:

o Free Services:

BBC 1, BBC2, BBC News 24, BBC Choice, BBC Knowledge. ITV, ITV 2, Channel 4, Channel 5, Digital Teletext.

 

o Subscription Based TV & Radio ("On Digital")

UK Style, UK Play, UK Gold, Shop, Sky one, Sky Movie Max, Sky Premier, Sky Sports 1,2 & 3, Film Four, Carlton Cinema, Discovery Wings, Discovery Kids, British Eurosport, Champions League, Granada Plus, Granada Men & Motors, Cartoon Network.

4) Digital Satellite Reception (from the Astra 28.2° East satellite)

o Subscription Based TV & Radio ("Sky Digital")

Sky Movie Multiplex: Choice of over 25 movies every night.

Sky Box Office: Recently released movies, starting every 15 minutes. Sports and other exclusive entertainment.

50 CD Quality Radio Channels: DJ and commercial free categorised music. Plus popular radio stations.

Numerous Free Channels. Including Ch4, Ch5 and all BBC digital channels (also hopefully ITV 1 & 2 from sometime next year).

Interactive Services: Including Home Banking, Shopping, Information, Education and Games.

Electronic Programme Guide: On screen programme lists and information.

The Works

These services will be available via a new wall plate mounted on an outside wall close to the original plate. A hole for the cable will be drilled through the wall but will be "made good" and covered by the plate. The external cables will go into a brown coloured duct located so as to have minimum visual impact on the buildings facade. The ducting will carry the cables to the roof where they will connect to a central unit on each block containing the distribution equipment, aerials and dish.

 

The new wall plate in each property will have three sockets.

 

Residents desiring digital TV can obtain a Sky or On Digital set top box either from SCCI (system installers) or from local retailers.

 

Residents desiring only the free digital channels will need to purchase the box (currently around £200).

 

Residents desiring the subscription service will be "given" a box for an "installation charge" of £40 and will need to sign up for one of a number of different packages starting at around £12 per month.

 

Those opting for Sky Digital (this does not apply to On Digital) will need to be connected to an existing phone line (this will not interfere with incoming and outgoing calls). SCCI can provide telephone extensions. Those over five meters (16 feet) or in another room will be charged £35 + VAT.

 

Residents may if they wish have additional cables installed into the property at a cost of approximately £100 each providing that this is made known prior to installation, and providing that the cable enters the property from the non-walkway side of the building.

 

If you wish to see the specification from SCCI please make arrangements through the Office. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to discuss any of the above in more detail.

Unsigned

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dated 21 June 2001 but delivered 22nd June

SECTION 20 NOTICE

Dear Resident

Digital TV

We write further to the correspondence you have received recently from Michael Edwards regarding the above.

 

In accordance with the Landlord & Tenant Act, as amended, we hereby serve Notice of our intention to commission SCC International Limited to install an Integrated Reception System to facilitate Sky digital TV and radio services. Under the provisions of the Act you have one month from the date of this Notice to make any observations or comments in writing to ourselves. Observations and comments must therefore be received at this office no later than 20 July 2001.

 

Sky Homes is the division of British Sky Broadcasting Limited dealing directly with residential landlords. They operate a register of approved supplier. Approved installers operate in accordance with a standard specification devised by Sky Homes. SCC International Limited have been nominated as the approved supplier covering this area. Sky Homes will only grant subsidy to nominated suppliers.

 

Without Sky subsidy the cost of the installation would be £230.00 per point plus VAT. Following lengthy negotiations with Sky Homes over their subsidy contribution a cost of £150.00 per point plus VAT has been agreed. This amounts to a subsidy of £80.00 each home.

 

We believe that the negotiated costs represent excellent value for money. On this basis we propose to instruct SCC International Limited to carry out the installation to your block. The costs will be met from the service charge account. There will be no fee costs attributable to this scheme. These works will be overseen by this office. We anticipate that works will commence towards the end of July.

 

The Council's Planning Department has been consulted and it would appear that a satellite antennae up to 90 cm in diameter can be installed without planning permission.

 

A Newsletter setting out the scope and programme of works will follow in the next month. Blocks 10 and 11 Augustus Close are currently excluded as budget provision (2001/02) was not made. Marcus and Julius Courts were completed as part of the pilot last year.

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders

For and on behalf of

Brentford Dock Limited

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dated 20 June 2001

To: All Shareholders and Residents of Brentford Dock

Dear Shareholder or Resident,

 

Arrangements with JSS Pinnacle

I am writing to let you know Directors have reviewed the current arrangements with JSS Pinnacle and have agreed to continue with the contractual arrangement for at least another three months.

 

Directors consider JSS Pinnacle is making a useful contribution to operating procedures and arrangements and to the broader service review now getting underway. In order to provide the necessary level of support for the arrangement though, the Directors have agreed a new post of General Manager.

 

The new post will combine some of the functions of the previous post of Chief Executive with some of those of the current post of Operations Manager. The post of Operations Manager will be deleted, and the current holder of that post will have the first opportunity of applying for the new post.

 

Taken overall, the change will be achieved within budget, and will take effect at the earliest opportunity. Other staffing arrangements will be reviewed subsequently in the light of feedback from the service review.

 

Landscaping and gardening

A letter was circulated regarding this on 8 June. Directors have arranged for additional staff and contractor time during the summer period pending the more comprehensive review referred to immediately above.

 

Digital TV

You probably know about the change from analogue to digital TV because digital offers far more channels together with improved sound and picture quality. The change will happen sometime between 2006 and 2010 when the existing analogue signal from Crystal Palace will be switched off.

 

Following a successful pilot programme carried out last year in Julius and Marcus Courts, we intend to react now to take account of the cessation of Sky News and Euro Sport at the end of June. We have secured a most advantageous price for making the change now.

 

BBC and ITV will continue to be received free of charge but an enhanced range of channels will be available for residents wishing to buy into them. The scheme avoids the need for individual satellite dishes and should increase the value of properties on the Dock. It was endorsed by shareholders at the budget meeting in March.

 

All flats - except those in Julius and Marcus - will need a new internal wall-plate and a second socket which will enable you to receive digital radio (very new). We expect the works to start around the end of July.

 

Further details about the work programme will be circulated by Jim Saunders on behalf of JSS Pinnacle. Mike Edwards, the Lead Director for the project, can be contacted through the Management Office if you want more information about the changes generally.

 

Board Membership

The Board is pleased that David Williams has joined the Board as Block Director for Nero Court. David is a Chartered Engineer who has lived on the Dock since 1980.

As nobody has come forward as Director for the unrepresented section of Numa Court (12/32 and 77/90), the two Directors for the adjoining constituencies have assumed the responsibilities of Block Director for the time being.

 

Service review

This is getting underway and I hope that you will take every opportunity through the review process to make your views known.

 

Yours sincerely,

Charmian Allcock Chairman, Brentford Dock Limited

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dated 18th June 2001

All Residents

Brentford Dock

 

Dear Resident

 

2001 External Painting Programme

Further to our notice dated 15th June in connection with the above. Please be advised that the meeting is being held in the Resident's Clubroom on Wednesday 20th June between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and approximately 8:00 p.m.

 

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders

For and on behalf of

Brentford Dock Limited

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dated 15th June 2001

2001 External Painting Programme

 

Following the recent Section 20 consultation as provided for in the Landlord and Tenant Act, Lakehouse Contracts Ltd have been awarded the external painting contract for this year. The scope of work was summarised in previous correspondence.

 

Site work will commence on Monday 18th June. The first task will be to establish a site compound behind Numa Court, adjacent to Dock Road. Painting will be concentrated on the Galba Clubroom and Galba Court block 1a over the first couple of weeks.

 

You will have an opportunity to meet members of the project management team on the evening of 20th JUNE BETWEEN 6:30 P.M. AND APPROXIMATELY 8:00 P.M. Jim Saunders, Paul Burke and Lakehouse representatives will be available to answer your questions.

 

In the meantime, a standard letter is attached for you to complete and send to your contents insurers. It is a matter of prudence to notify insurers that your windows and front door will need to be left open for paint to be applied and dry of course. Attached is a form to complete and return to the management office to express your preference as to front door colour is set out below. A sample board will be available for inspection in the management office from Tuesday 19th June.

 

Lakehouse will write to you direct providing approximately two weeks notice of their intention to paint your windows and front door. There will be a contact number in the event that their proposal is inconvenient. Whilst every effort will be made to make alternative arrangements, it may not be practical to revise the programme to suit every resident. A degree of flexibility and co-operation by all parties is essential.

 

Should you wish to comment on any aspect of the work or bring matters to the attention of the management team during the contract period, a comments book will be available in the management office. Details of the comments book will be reported to Board and addressed at weekly site meetings. Your co-operation would be appreciated. We are endeavouring to operate clear and efficient management system, which demands an element of standardisation.

 

Please take the opportunity to attend Wednesday's meeting. I look forward to seeing you then.

 

Jim Saunders For and on behalf of Brentford Dock Limited


2001 External Painting Programme

 

Having considered the sample boards located in the Management Office, please paint my/our front door as sample colour reference

 

Number: _____________________

 

Signed:  _____________________     Print Name:    _____________________

 

Address: _____________________      Date:            _____________________

 


Dear Sirs

 

Insured:

 

Policy No:

 

2001 External Painting Programme

 

Between 18th June and 31st October 2001, an estate wide external painting programme is taking place. The scope of work includes the application of paint to the window frames and front door of your property. During such work, windows and the front door must remain open for a period to include drying time.

 

We understand that this may constitute an increased risk from an insurance perspective and, therefore, it is considered prudent to notify you.

 

Please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned, should you require any further information.

 

Yours faithfully


dated 11th June 2001

membership renewals.

Last year we were asked to try to stagger the renewal of club memberships so that they did not coincide with the renewal of the Syon Gate passes as some members found two renewals a drain on their resources. The Board listened and decided to extend last year's membership to the end of June. The new membership year will therefore start from the 1st of July in future.

 

You will recall that last year we asked for a membership fee of £30.00 per person to help finance the refurbishment of the club. The good news is that we are able to reduce the fee by 50% this year to £15.00 per person and the better news is that if you renew your membership, or join as a new member prior to the 30th June, we will offer a 20% incentive reduction making your fee £12.00 per person (£15.00 after the 30th June).

 

The Club still requires an income to operate and if you are able, and willing, to make a "gift" subscription over and above the figures mentioned above it would be very welcome and necessary to help ensure the Club's future operation. Please add any amount to your renewal cheque plus a short note indicating the amount of your gift on the attached renewal form.

 

club operation.

The club continues to operate on the normal opening hours of:

Tuesday 6.00 -11.00 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

12.00 -3.00 and 6.00 -11.00. Closed all day Monday.

 

To allow Bar staff a break it is not possible to operate an all day service, over the weekend at the moment, this could be open to review later this year.

 

It is common knowledge, but just in case you had not heard, Tracey and Jon O'Sullivan have left the club and the bar service is now in the capable hands of John Daniels who is known to many on the Estate having worked the Club and also the Brewery Tap in years gone by.

 

food service.

We are pleased to advise that we are in serious discussion with a very experienced Caterer with a view to recommencing a food service in the immediate future. We will advise you on this point as soon as discussions have been finalised.

 

wine tasting evening.

THURSDAY 14TH JUNE AT 8.00 P.M.: A wine tasting, presented by Oddbins, will be held in the Club. A variety of wines will be on offer for you to try and also to buy. Come and join in the fun. A donation of £5.00 per person will be collected on the night and tickets will be entered into a draw for a free bottle of wine at the end of the tasting. A maximum of 20 people so come early to reserve your place.

 

coffee morning

WEDNESDAY 20TH JUNE at 10.30 a.m. and every second Wednesday thereafter Come and join in, chat to your fellow residents and have a coffee and a scone

 

thursday lunch club.

THURSDAY 14TH JUNE to enable this popular event to take place, whilst we are sorting out a new chef, volunteer shareholders have offered their services to "ensure food is on the table". Please support them by phoning the club, 8847 0353, and reserving a place. You will not be disappointed.

 

quiz night.

TUESDAY 19TH June as usual the brains of the Dock will gather to compete in this fun packed evening come along and join in

 

summer ball

SATURDAY JULY 28TH. make a note in your diary. The annual summer ball is being planned. Details will be issued as soon as all necessary arrangements have been confirmed.

 

PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN YOUR MEMBERSHIP FORMS TO THE OFFICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AS YOUR CURRENT "SWIPE CARD" WILL CEASE TO ALLOW YOU ENTRANCE TO THE CLUB AFTER THE 30TH JUNE.


dated 8th June 2001

Dear Resident

Over the last couple of weeks some residents have expressed their concerns regarding the condition of estate grounds.

I would like to take this opportunity to appraise residents of the actions we are currently undertaking to address these concerns.

 

Summer Bedding

Planting has recently been completed. Owing to the priority placed on planting, the maintenance of shrub beds has unfortunately suffered. This is also true of the weeding of hard surfaces. Recent weather has, of course, been unhelpful.

 

Shrub Planters

The black planters located around the estate will be filled within the next fortnight in accordance with the low maintenance design currently on show directly outside the Management Office. These works will be undertaken by a company called Treecare Ltd.

 

Extra Resources

From next week additional human resources will be introduced to the gardening team. An extra full time person will be working over the course of the summer. The focus of his time will be weeding of shrub beds and hard surfaces. This will allow our permanent gardeners, Charlie & Robert, to concentrate on bedding maintenance and grass cutting.

In addition, JSSPinnacle will call on some extra expertise to direct grounds maintenance operations over the next four weeks or so. Initially, this will result in weekly action plans and ultimately lead to an annual maintenance programme.

 

Annual Maintenance Programme

In relation to the production of an Annual Maintenance Programme, we will also begin work on Spring Bedding Designs for the Autumn. Sight of these designs will be available to all residents in advance of seeking Board approval to purchase.

I remain confident that within the next couple of weeks the above actions will have the necessary impact.

 

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders For and on behalf of Brentford Dock Limited


dated 18th May 2001

2001 External Painting Programme - Scope of Work Summary

The fundamental objective of the 2001 programme is to deal with painting that was outside the scope of the 2000 contract. The 2000 contract concentrated on work demanding scaffold access. The scope of work scheduled for this year may be summarised as follows:

 

Galba Club Room and 2 Augustus Close

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces including:

Window frames, doors, metalwork and masonry panels.

 

Galba Court Block 1A

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the walkways at ground and second floor level overlooking the Grand Union Canal and incorporating all associated stairwells to include:

Window frames, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

 

Galba Court Block 1B

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the walkways at ground, first and third floor levels overlooking the Grand Union Canal and incorporating all associated stairwells, to include:

Window frame:, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

Lower ground garage doors and associated frames are also included.

 

Romulus Court Blocks 1C and 1D

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the walkways at ground, first and third floor level to Block 1C; ground, second and fourth floor level to block 1D, all overlooking the Grand Union Canal and incorporation all associated stairwells, to include:

Window frames, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

Garage doors and associated frames, boiler room doors, louvres and fire hose doors all at lower ground level, are also included.

 

Numa Court Block 1E, 1F and 1G

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the ground floor elevations and walkways at first and third floor level, all overlooking the River Brent and incorporating all associated stairwells, to include:

Window frames, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

Garage doors and associated frames, service room doors, and stairwells all at lower ground level to Justin Close are also included.

 

Nero Court

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the walkways at ground, second and fourth floor level overlooking the Mooring Basin and incorporating all associated stairwells, to include:

Window frames, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

Garage doors and associated frames, service cupboard doors and refuse store doors to the rear of the block are also included, as are all previously painted surfaces to the ground floor elevations and walkways at first and third floor levels facing west.

 

Otho Court

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted surfaces to the ground floor elevations facing garden areas (not facing Augustus Close) and walkways at first and third floor levels incorporating all associated stairwells, to include:

Window frames, doors, metalwork, soffits, hatches and masonry panels.

Lower ground floor garage doors and associated frames, service cupboard doors and refuse store doors facing Augustus Close are also included.

 

Blocks 10 and 11 Augustus Close

Repair, prepare and redecorate all previously painted front doors and associated frames, adjacent toilet windows, dustbin and garage doors and associated frames.

 

Programme

The specification indicates that works should be completed by the end of October. It is anticipated that a 20 week site programme will apply. Following Section 20 consultation, works are Works therefore are due to commence mid-June.

 

If any resident wishes to view the full specification, please make an appointment through the Management Office


Dated 17th May 2001

Marina Club Food Service

It is with regret, that we have to advise that the food service offered by Mr Jon O'Sullivan at the marina club has ceased with immediate effect.

The necessary legal documents required to operate the food service have not been made available by Mr O'Sullivan.

It has not been possible for the company to renew the catering agreement.

We will be advertising for a replacement caterer and hope to recommence the food service as soon as possible. If you know anyone who could be interested in the position please advise the office.

The bar service continues to operate with the normal hours as do the Wednesday coffee mornings

Kelvin Brooks Chairman, BDPS


Dated 16th May 2001

Dear Resident,

I am pleased to write to you to inform you of decisions taken by the Board over the last fortnight.

Firstly, as there have been considerable changes recently, you may find it useful to know the elected Directors currently on the Board.

 

Director

Representing

Kelvin Brooks

Julius and Marcus Courts

Ann Proffitt

1-14 & 39-94 Otho Court (corrected by webmaster).

Jim Hodder

17-46 & 63-82 Galba Court (and 1-4, 26-33 & 60-67 Romulus - added by webmaster).

Mike Kerrigan

5-25,34-59 & 68-88 Romulus Court

Dilys Matthews

1-11 & 33-76 Numa Court

Mike Edwards

15-38 & 95-110 Otho Court (corrected by webmaster)

David Shavreen

Augustus Close

Co-opted 12th Board Member

as per Company Articles and Memorandum.

Charmian Allcock

 

 London Borough of Hounslow Representatives:

Councillor Valerie Lamy

Servius Court and 1-16 & 47-62 Galba Court

Councillor Patricia Nicholas

Leo & Maurice Courts

 

Dan Lodge (representing Nero Court) resigned during April following long and active service on the Board. I take this opportunity to record thanks for his hard work and to extend good wishes for his future plans. Co-opted member Phyllis Cunningham (Augustus Close) has also resigned. Following their period as Chairman and Vice Chairman Ann Proffitt and David Shavreen have stood down from Office but remain on the Board of Brentford Dock Ltd.

 

For the period immediately ahead I have accepted the Board's request to Chair the Company. Having lived on the Dock since 1995, firstly in Numa and more recently in Marcus Courts, I have taken a strong interest in Dock affairs and am able to bring a more independent perspective than colleagues with Block responsibilities.

 

Kelvin Brooks has been appointed Vice-Chairman and already serves as Chairman of the commercial undertakings.

 

Ann Proffitt's letter 30 April referred to the importance of ensuring we use the democratic nature of our company's managerial arrangements. I too hope that shareholders in Nero Court and 12-32/77-90 Numa Court will think carefully about the separate letter you will receive shortly inviting you to elect a Member to the Board. Interim arrangements have been made to ensure the interests of shareholders in Blocks not currently represented on the Board are upheld, particularly in relation to scheduled Block works and any tree works in close proximity to those blocks.

 

The Board is pleased with the current performance of JSSPinnacle. They are assessing the Company and have already been able to make some sound and cost effective suggestions. I will advise you, at a later date, in more detail once the assessment has been completed.

 

Following careful consideration of various options the Board has accepted a proposal regarding the future operation of Brentford Estates. Despite unfounded rumours to the contrary Brentford Estates continues to operate in a solvent fashion and is able to meet all its financial demands.

 

The Board has decided that the future of the Marina Club and the Residents Clubroom should be considered in further detail as part of the Service Review. Consequently current Club Memberships will be extended to the end of this month. Renewals and new memberships will come into being in June and details will be circulated shortly.

Discussions are underway regarding the sculptures loaned to the Dock. We do anticipate "The Fencers" to the rear of Romulus Court and the "Dolphins" on the Marina frontage will need to be withdrawn by the artist from exhibition shortly.

 

The Board has discussed the scope and handling of the Service Review which is scheduled to start shortly. Your views will be an important part of this review which will influence decisions about where the emphasis should be placed in developing a business plan for the Dock. I very much hope that you will participate in written and other consultations as the review progresses.

Yours sincerely,

CHARMIAN ALLCOCK. Chairman.


dated 12th May 2001

To All Residents, Brentford Dock

Sculptures at Brentford Dock: Edge of Day (Dolphins)

The agreement between the artist of `Edge of Day' (Dolphins) and Brentford Dock expired at the end of April and the work will shortly be returned to the sculptor to whom we are indebted for her generous loan over more than two years.

 

We are aware that this work has become an integral part of our Dock landscape and from the many comments received a much-loved sculpture.

 

Before returning the work, therefore, we thought it only fair to let everyone know that the artist has agreed to lower her price for the sculpture from £12,000 to £8,000 to Brentford Dock if we wish to purchase it. Since the Company can not use its funds for the acquisition, we are asking whether you wish to create the means for this purpose?

 

Please indicate on the form below whether you wish to purchase the sculpture for Brentford Dock or wish to contribute towards such a permanent acquisition.

 

We will appreciate your response by the 31'I May 2001 in order for us to arrange either the return of the sculpture or inform the artist of our serious interest in acquiring it.

 

Any individual who wishes to purchase the sculpture will be recognised on the plaque near the work and in all relevant literature.

 

Confidential Reply

Please return to the Management Office, marked "Confidential" for the attention of Jim Saunders, by May 31st 2001.

 

I wish to contribute the sum of £      towards the purchase of the sculpture entitled "Edge of Day".

The amount can be available  1. Immediately  2. Please give date

 

 Name: 

 Tel:

 Address:

 Date:


Dated 11th May 2001

Dear Resident

External Painting Programme 2001

We write with regards to the external painting programme 2001 in accordance with the terms of your lease. The specification, which was drawn up by MJ Summer & Co, has been tendered amongst reputable contractors approved by Brentford Dock Limited Board.

 

In accordance with the Landlord & Tenant Act 1985, as amended, we hereby serve Notice of our intention to carry out these works as per the specification. Under the provisions of the Act you have one month from the date of this Notice to make any observations or comments in writing to ourselves. Observations and comments must therefore be received at this office no later than 15th June 2001.

 

The tenders received for these works are detailed as follows:

Collins (Contractors) Ltd

£181,990.00 plus VAT

Alfred Bagnall & Sons Ltd

£149,050.00 plus VAT

Lakehouse Contracts Limited

£143,062.47 plus VAT

 

We propose to instruct Lakehouse Contracts Limited to carry out these works. The cost of these works will be met from the service charge account. Provision has been made in this years budget (2001/02) to meet the cost.

In addition to the work costs set out, the service charge account will also meet fee costs for MJSumner; the appointed consultants. This amounts to 7.3% of the total cost;: and covers a competant professional services including planning supervision in accordance with CDM Health & Safety regulation.

 

The cost of the works has been calculated as follows:

Lakehouse Contracts Limited

£143,062.47

Professional Fees @ 7.3%

£10,443.03

£153,506.03

VAT @ 17.5%

£26,863.55

TOTAL COST

£180,369.58

 

All works will be overseen by MJ Sumner and no monies paid until they are satisfied with the standard of workmanship.

We aim to issue a resident's newsletter setting out the scope and programme of works within the next fortnight. Please note-this Section 20 Notice applies only to Leaseholders and not Council Tenants.

Please do not hesitate to contact the direct should you hake any further queries.

Yours sincerely

Jim Saunders

For and on behalf of Brentford Dock Limited


Dated 8th May 2001:

To all Residents

Brentford Dock

 

We are sad to inform you that George Williamson of 14 Numa Court has passed away.

 

George's family have invited all residents who wish to attend, to the cremation on Wednesday 9th May at Mortlake Crematorium 2.30 p.m. then at the Marina Bar on Brentford Dock following.

 

Any residents who wish to make a donation can do so at the management office. The donations will be going to a cancer research fund of the family's choice.

 

Aarron Taylor, Estate Supervisor


dated 30th April 2001:

Letter from Ann Proffitt & David Shavreen

Dear Shareholder

At the end of our term of office we feel it necessary to report to our shareholders on the present condition of the Dock and sketch out some of the problems that lie ahead.

 

It must be said that work to modernise the Dock and to maintain its good standard of service proceeds in a satisfactory manner. Most of the painting has been completed and the general appearance of the blocks is much improved. The grounds have been well maintained. The timber weather cladding in Augustus Close has been replaced with plastic which is much longer lasting and cheaper to maintain. A start has been made in replacing TV reception with a digital system and work on the walkways and on completing window replacement is scheduled for the autumn.

 

Despite all this, however, the Board remains divided over the handling of our commercial enterprises. These are the responsibility of the separate companies, which must be self-financing and therefore cannot call on monies from the estate charges; the responsibility for their success or failure lies firmly with the Directors of these companies themselves. In the case of BDPS the Board has wavered between selling all of it, selling part of it - retaining the letting services - and retaining all of it. Our professional advisors believe that the first two options would be best. The concerns remain that BDPS could become a liability if it continues to trade at the present level.

 

Similarly with the Marina Club, here there has undoubtedly been improvement in the appearance of the Clubroom and in the development of a programme of social activities. Critically its value depends on its replacing the present Residents Clubhouse as the location for the groups and activities which occur there. There is some doubt still about whether suitable spaces exist to house these activities without considerable further expenditure. The meal service has much improved. The kitchen, which has recently suffered damage from fire and flood, will need further work.

 

The Marina itself has grown from strength to strength. Plans are being drawn up which would make it a separate company with its own Board. At present owing to skilful management its financial position is secure and its reputation as a pleasant amenity has been greatly enhanced.

 

As regards the grounds, it has long been felt that the company should have available a firm policy with regard to the considerable number of tree on the Dock. Recently with the advice of the Arboreal Advisory Service, a report has been drawn up selling out a plan for the care and treatment of trees on a long term basis - copies of which are available for inspection in the office.

 

It is perhaps appropriate here to remind all shareholders that the good governance of the estate depends to no small extent on your elected Directors. They give many hours of their time not only at Board Meetings but also in assisting and reporting on the many activities where their skills may be helpful in developing policy. The selection of such Directors is a matter that concerns all shareholders but too often members are returned unopposed or in some cases as in recent months, no one has come forward to represent certain blocks. This is a matter to be deplored and it has been left to the Board to co-opt members to fill vacancies. The danger of subordinating control to self-chosen cliques must be obvious and make a mockery of the democratic process.

 

Since the resignation of David Procter, our Chief Executive for many years, the Board has chosen to put the administration of the Dock into the hands of JSS Pinnacle and at present we have a part-time general manager Jim Saunders, working with Andy Murray our Operations Manager to run the estate. This is a difficult time requiring adjustments in relationships as the office team takes on a new shape. We are grateful for the patience of Aarron Taylor, Colin Carter, Deborah Gillespie and the staff in coping with all the new changes that a new structure inevitably brings. Indeed it is likely that further changes will be necessary to meet the challenges of new legislation. The difficulties that have arisen over the granting of the 999 year leases provides a case in point where new rules and regulations have created more bureaucracy which has resulted in considerable delays.

 

In short our year in office has been for us strenuous and exacting. We are pleased to be able to hand on our duties and responsibilities to a new Chairman and Vice Chair We look forward to co-operating with a new chairman as they take on the many challenges still to be dealt with.

Yours sincerely

Ann Proffitt David Shavreen


Newsletter dated 27th April 2001:

BRENTFORD DOCK LIMITED

2 JUSTIN CLOSE, BRENTFORD DOCK BRENTFORD, MIDDLESEX TW8 8QE

THE TWENTY FOUR HOUR CONTACT NUMBER 07970 143 999

27th April 2001

David & Margaret Procter would like to thank the many residents and staff who contributed to the leaving fund, sent cards and gifts to mark David leaving the post of Chief Executive at the Dock. The kind words and thoughts were greatly appreciated. In addition to purchasing some fine wines and enjoying an evening out with the staff they will be spending the remainder on "extras" for their holidays in Gozo.

 

Dock Road Gate - works are now complete on the High Street and therefore, with immediate erect, the red fire gates on Dock Road will be closed.

 

Syon Gate Renewal - we have spoken to Syon Park and they advise that all applications received are currently being processed and should be returned by the early part of next week.

 

Post Cards - residents are reminded that the sculpture post cards (as advertised in the Accounts office window) are available for sale at 25p each.

 

Message from Elizabeth re Nick Hutchings - over the last few months I have received nearly 200 cards and letters of condolences from Dock residents and absentees from abroad. I am totally overwhelmed and thank you from the bottom of our heart.

I have received two letters from the RNLI thanking those of you who have donated money to them on behalf of Nick.

Finally, and very importantly, thanks to all of you who have contributed so generously toward the "Nick Hutchings Memorial Fund", which is a most wonderful tribute.

 

Unmarked Parcels & Letters - over the past few months we have received several incorrectly addressed items. Could all residents ensure that reference is made to the property address on all items. From 1st May we return all incorrectly addressed mail to the sender.

 

At present we have the following incorrectly addressed parcels:

B O'Reilly - 11 Augustus Close - incorrect address

Mr M G .Anderson - 48 Otho Court - incorrect address

Mr Collett -34 Augustus Close - incorrect address

 

Uncollected Parcels -

Andrew Ambrose - 5 Augustus Close

Miss D L Truby - 16 Leo Court

Miss I Bendaiz - 16 Romulus Court

Grace Huntley 66 Romulus Court

C/S Supplies (Jon Harris) - 9 Otho Court

Julian Adkins - 6 Servius Court

Miss S Katz - 43 Nero Court

 

Car Alarms - would the ower of the VW Golf S751 EGJ please check the sensitivity of the alarm as we have received complaints about it continuously going off in the early hours of the morning.

 

Baby Sitting - Need a Break - do you have a baby or small children-, would you be interested in doing babysitting swaps on an infrequent basis or is anyone interested in babysitting from time to time- Please ring Lina (Julius Court) on 020 8568 4525.

 

Untaxed Vehicles - all residents and shareholders are to be aware that as on Monday 30th April any vehicle not displaying a valid tax disc will be reported to the DVLA.

 

Cats & Dogs - the cleaners are continually having to clean pet mess from landings and grounds every day. THEY ARE YOUR PETS AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. Therefore, please ensure that your pets are kept under control and that you clean up any mess.

 

RNIB - we have again been invited to participate in a sponsored abseil down Twickenham Rugby Stadium. Last year we raised over £600 and this was as short notice. If any residents are interested in taking part, please contact Aarron Taylor in the Management Office for further details.

 

Bin Chutes - over the last few weeks the cleaning staff have had to deal with over 20 blocked chutes across the estate. In all cases this was due to misuse by residents. Please do not force large bags or boxes down the chutes.

If the cleaning staff have to spend time unblocking chutes they spend less time cleaning blocks. Please be conscious of the size a of the items you place down the chutes and free up the Staff to clean their blocks.

 

Marina Club - membership is due for renewal in May. If you are not currently a member, now is the time to come in for a drink or a meal to try the Club for yourself, Just ring the bell and you will be let in. This offer will cease next week when final renewal membership details are published.

 

The Club is open Tuesday 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Wednesday to Sunday 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and food is served Wednesday to Sunday as above including Sunday Lunch.

Happy Hour - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday 6 p.m. -7 p.m.

 

May 3rd Mexican Evening - Lovely Mexican food and half price Tequila - a fun night out!

May 9th Coffee Morning

May 10th Luncheon Club

May 12th French Evening - Good French menu and wine -come and have a relaxing evening and enjoy yourselves

May 15th Quiz Night

Sunday Lunch Menu

Soup of the Day/Duck Pate

Roast Sirloin of Beef/Roast Chicken with seasonal vegetables and Yorkshire pudding/Melange of Fish/Vegetarian option available

Apple strudel and custard/ice cream and coule

Coffee & Cream

 

Has anyone got an old couch or armchair they could donate to the marina bar for the comfort of members- If so, we would be grateful and so would the members. Please contact Tracey on 8847 0353.

 

Theatre Offers - two top price seats for the price of one tickets available for Lady Salsa, Bounce, The King & I and The Graduate.

 

Lost & Found - several items have been handed into the Management Office including several bunches of keys, a small key left in store cupboard in Numa Court, 3 pairs of glasses, 1 pair of ladies suede gloves and a silver cross.

 

Contact Details - it would be helpful if all residents would complete and return the form below to the Management Office:

PERSONAL DETAILS:

NAME(s):

ADDRESS:

HOME TEL NO.WORK TEL NO.

MOBILE NO.

CAR MAKE: MODEL: _

REGISTRATION NO:

 

EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL NO(s):

Let's make use of our tidal river

Air Vice Marshal William Gill, immediate past Chairman of the River Thames Society, advocates tide control of the upper reaches of the tideway to provide safer waters and encourage more people to enjoy boating.

 

The article which followed was unreadable due to appalling print quality. It seemed to contain a picture of Brentford Dock taken from the river.

 

River Thames Society

For membership details

Tele 01491-571476


Received Thu 12 Apr:

BRENTFORD DOCK MARINA CLUB

WE ARE PLEASED TO ADVISE THAT THE CLUB WILL BE OPEN ON

 

EASTER MONDAY FROM 12.00 TO 23.00

A SPECIAL MENU WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 12.30 TO 21.00

BUT THE CLUB WILL BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY EVENING AND WEDNESDAY

LUNCH TO GIVE TRACEY AND JON A BREAK

RE-OPENING WEDNESDAY @ 18.00 WITH FULL MENU AND BAR SERVICE

 

 

PROGRAMME OF EVENTS FOR APRIL

 

WEDNESDAY 11TH COFFEE MORNING

THURSDAY 12TH THURSDAY LUNCH CLUB (BOOK YOUR FOOD)

SUNDAY 15TH SAN MARINO GRAND PRIX 13.00

NORMAL SUNDAY LUNCH 12.00 TO 15.30

MONDAY 16TH BANK HOLIDAY SPECIAL OPENING

BAR OPEN FROM NOON TO 23.00

SPECIAL LUNCH FROM 12.30 FOOD TILL 21.00

IRISH GRAND PRIX 15.30

TUESDAY 17TH QUIZ NIGHT

SATURDAY 21ST EUROPEAN CUP SEMI FINAL 14.15

SPECIAL THAI EVENING - DETAILS LATER

WEDNESDAY 25TH COFFEE MORNING

SUNDAY 29TH SPANISH GRAND PRIX 13.00.

 

PLEASE SEE OVER FOR MENUS.

=======================

A FULL FOOD SERVICE RUNS WEDNESDAY TO SATURDAY AND A SPECIAL MENU

OPERATES FOR SUNDAY LUNCH.

 

RESERVATIONS ON 8847.0353 OR 07939 498764

 

FREE MEMBERSHIPS TILL THE END OF APRIL

COME AND GIVE THE CLUB A TRY. RING THE BELL FOR ADMITTANCE

RENEWAL MEMBERSHIP - DETAILS OUT SOON


dated 10 April 2001:

Letter from Ann Proffitt

Dear Shareholder

JSS Pinnacle have now taken over the management of the Dock. Jim Saunders from JSSP started with us on 2nd April and, I am sure, many of you will be meeting him over the next few weeks.

 

JSSP we will working with the Board to undertake a review of all aspects of the companys operational procedures, policies and staffing structures. The Board also considers that there must be an opportunity for the involvement of shareholders in contributing to the review. The arrangements for shareholder participation in this review process will be discussed at the next Board meeting on 30th April.

 

The majority of the Directors decided at the Board Meeting on 2nd April to defer the discussion about holding the EGM until after the service review has taken place. The results of this review should provide useful information, for all shareholders, to aid future discussion on the management of the company.

 

The Board welcomes Dilys Matthews as the new representative for part of Numa Court. No candidate was nominated for the other part of Numa Court.

 

David Shavreen and I will have completed our year as Chair and Vice Chair of BDL at the end of this month (April). We shall be standing down in line with Board policy where the Chair and Vice Chair position change anually. We have had a lively and difficult year and the workload has been heavy for both of us. We shall welcome the opportunity to become ordinary Board Directors again.

 

We hope you all have a pleasant and peaceful Easter holiday.

Ann Proffitt


dated 10 April 2001:

Letter from Brian Robson

Dear Resident

Re: Property Lettings, Management and Estate Agency Services

 

You may be aware of a perception in some quarters that there is doubt about the future of Brentford Estates. This letter is to advise you that the property sales, the lettings and management services are not only alive and well but that it is my intention to provide a new and enhanced level of services in the future.

 

My experience as an Estate Agent spans nearly forty years, the last twenty of which have been almost entirely in residential lettings and management. I now act as a consultant to my old practice but have undertaken to spend whatever time is necessary on developing and improving Brentford Estates.

 

Brentford Estates is a trading name of Brentford Dock Property Services Limited. Services provided by BDPS, whilst carried out in a professional manner, are not only designed to be cost effective but also to contribute towards block finances and thus help to keep your service charges down.

 

Mark Weiner is the Sales Manager and Samantha Langton has moved to take everyday charge of lettings and management both assisted by Tony Oliver. I am available to address any areas of concern that you might have and to advise on Landlord and Tenant matters.

 

To all existing and future clients of Brentford Estates, we extend our best wishes and look forward to continuing or beginning a fruitful business relationship.

 

Yours sincerely

Brian Robson

 


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