August 2019, Issue No. 6 Email: chocworksra@gmail.com
A Lovely Afternoon Tea!
Bridget & Dan Barry and Julie & Paul Hughes held a ticketed afternoon tea in their gardens on the afternoon of 10th August, with the aim of a) helping residents get to know each other a little better, and b) raising funds for the proposed CWRA defibrillator.
The event was very well attended and guests coped admirably with the odd shower. The food was of a very professional standard and accompanied by the odd glass of convivial drink that seemed to help get people talking. A raffle was also held, with prizes kindly donated by neighbours. Consequently they were able to present the Residents Association with £140 towards the proposed defibrillator.
Many, many thanks to the Barrys’ and Hughes’ for opening up their gardens to us, and for the hours of work involved in preparing the food; and thanks to all those who turned up and contributed to a lovely afternoon. Please visit our Photo Gallery to view a few photos of this event.
Estate Management
Following a series of meetings with the site maintenance surveyor, and a Director of Watson in their Leeds office we are able to confirm the following:
- Watson are going to install height restriction notices over the tunnels to car parks
- Watson will replace the dead trees in Bayldon Square with Cherry trees in November, and will replace the light in the grassed area of Bayldon Square as soon as possible.
- Watson state that one of their responsibilities is to manage nuisance e.g. noise, parties until late, using properties as AirBnB’s, ball games etc. So please contact Watson’s if you have an issue with these.
- If you see plants, shrubs or trees that have died in new planting areas please contact David Wilson Homes. This is considered a “snagging” issue and the responsibility for replacement lies with DWH in the first two years.
Other Estate Management news:
- Car Parking has been taken on as part of Estate Management
- We are currently seeking willing and active volunteers to assist with all areas of Estate Management. Please get in touch if you can help: chocworksra@gmail.com
Planning
If you are concerned about the increasing size of the development, and wish to protect the heritage of the Clock Tower, please keep the following dates in your diaries.
Wednesday, 4th September 10 am
Site visit by councillors to look at the site of Block K (18/1934/FULM) – (30 apartment block between the Care Home and the liquor store). We are objecting on grounds of heritage and bulk & massing. However, a previous block (H) has already been approved. Please turn up to speak to your councillors at the site entrance nearest the Care Home & Liquor Store.
Tuesday, 10th September 10am
Site visit by councillors to look at Block M, followed by a council meeting to approve on Thursday, 12th September at 4.30pm. Block M is at the end of Clock Tower Way, and situated directly in front of the Clock Tower. It was initially approved as houses, and we are objecting to this application for 20 apartments on the grounds of heritage and bulk & massing.
The more people who turn up to meet councillors at the site visits the better. It is an informal opportunity to register concerns and ask questions.
Annual General Meeting – Monday 14th October
Please join us for The Chocolate Works Residents Association Annual General Meeting & The Chocolate Works Management Company Open Forum on Monday 14th October, 7pm – 8.30pm at St Chad’s Church, Campleshon Road
This is a dual purpose meeting as follows:
1) The Residents Association will hold its 1st Annual General Meeting. This is an opportunity for you to hear what we have done during our first year, and for you to begin to tell us what you feel should be our priorities for next year. It will also be an opportunity to elect/re-elect Officers of the Committee.
2) Watson, our Management Agent, will make a presentation of their role and function, followed by a Q & A session.
Adoption of Roads by City of York Council
We have had a first meeting with a Technical Director of David Wilson Homes, prior to further meetings with him and York Council. The process of adopting the roads needs to start now, as the legal elements are complex, and the Council process is somewhat slow.
In the first instance is the question of the leasehold nature of many of the residents’ parking spaces and the impact this may have on adopting roads around those spaces. If there is anyone with a legal background, preferably property law, or other related skills, we would be delighted if you wished to get involved and help guide us through the legal minefield which this is likely to throw up. (Please leave a message on chocworksra@gmail.com and we will get back to you.)
Social Groups/Events
Please see website for full details: Social Groups
Jazz Night
Monthly Coffee Morning
First Wednesday of every month at St Chad’s Church Hall. Next one is on 4th September, from 10 am. Open to everyone! Just come along and catch up with your fellow Chocolate Works Residents.
New* Nic’s Curry Club – 17th October
The new Curry Club is to be held once a month and we’re kicking off at our local Village Spice restaurant on Thursday 17th October, 7 pm. All welcome! Free poppadoms and spice trays and bring your own drinks – makes it very cost effective, just pay for a main course! Text Clare on 07931 179181 if interested.
What’s Going On – Wider Community
Friday 20th – Sunday 29th September 2019
Food-lovers can get their teeth stuck into our historic city at the annual York Food and Drink Festival. The festival market, bars, food factory and demonstrations will be located on Parliament Street and St Sampsons Square but there’s lots more going on throughout the city. From wine and food tastings, talks, trails and tours to cookery demos and workshops. Visit website for details and to book events.
CWRA Membership
If you’re not yet a member of the CWRA but would like to join us please see our Membership page. New members always welcome.