Materials, street furniture & lighting

- It was noted that the Witherford slabs in Sydenham are marked with chewing gum that is difficult to remove. The design team chose this slab for Dartmouth Rd for its internal reinforcement, making it more resilient to trafficking, and its availability in small deliveries for maintenance purposes. It was explained that the natural stone materials in the scheme would be impregnated with a product that aids the removal of gum and the design team will investigate if it’s possible to use this product on the Witherford slab also .

- A requirement for electrical points (Blakeley boxes) was highlighted for the public squares (on approach to pools, Heron Hse and Sylvan Post). Design team to introduce. Note that as Heron Hse is private land it would be subject to negotiation and written agreements and out of the Council’s control. Noted that Cllr Best suggested that the Council could lease the space and take on the management subject to agreement with the landowner. Post meeting note:- Give the likely use of the space and the difficulties that may arise with obtaining the necessary agreements in conjunction with the proposed design, that the costs associated would outweigh the limited benefits.

- Decorative lighting will only be considered for Heron Hse if the Council obtains approvals for the work from the private land owners as the Council will not have control over its future maintenance.

- Request for improved lighting in the branches of the trees in Sylvan Post square. Post meeting note;- estimated cost / approval for installation and maintenance is being sought from Skanska the Council's PFI contractor before final decision.

- Cycle stands – while they are welcomed, can there be more.

- Telephone kiosks. They are not wanted, but as a fallback position if it is not possible to remove them they could go up against the flank wall next to Paddy Power. They must be moved out of the footway. PCL provide the details of contact at Arqiva (owner of 1 box) to LBL, to be passed on with BT contact to Councillor Upex.

- SKANSKA – the design team reported that Skanska have been approached about the scheme and have been issued the GA drawings to work with. It is a long drawn out process. Cllrs requested that if there is any difficulty getting Skanska to deliver that they should be advised.

- Trees – DP confirmed the proposed species type for Sylvan Post as Amelanchier, a small tree with blossom and good autumn colour. PCL to ensure that the trees that go in to the scheme are planted at a significant size, not stick-like. Request made for more native species in the scheme, for PCL to consider.

- Bins – currently proposed as being newly-supplied standard blue Lewisham bins. There was consideration of the merits of bringing in a better style of bin vs the costs of maintaining and replacing them. LS to contact LBL refuse team about what can be done and if not additional standard blue bins to be investigated at strategic locations.

continued...