Droylsden East Labour: 2011

Merry Christmas from your Labour team

Saturday, 10 December 2011

For over 20 years your Droylsden Labour team have delivered a Christmas card to households throughout the ward.

Once again we are pleased to pass on the season’s greetings.

2011 has been difficult for many people and we can only hope that this Christmas brings happiness and new hope to all residents.

Our pledge for 2012 is to continue working hard for Droylsden.

Happy Christmas

Cllr Jim Middleton

Cllr Susan Quinn

Cllr Kieran Quinn

Raised tram line along Droylsden Road STOPPED

Droylsden residents have faced many challenges over the last few years during the work to lay the Metro line. During that time your local Councillors have challenged Metrolink whenever they brought forward plans that caused additional problems for local people.

As the line moves on from Droylsden to Ashton, through Audenshaw, Metrolink tried to bring forward plans to have a dedicated raised tram track along the centre of Droylsden Road.

This raised track would have acted as a physical barrier along the road. Included with the raised tram track were additional banned right and left turns.

Following intense lobbying, from Droylsden East Councillor Kieran Quinn, Metrolink have made major concessions on the scheme through Audenshaw along Droylsden Road.

The dedicated raised tram track HAS NOW BEEN STOPPED.

As Cllr Quinn said “It was well known that I shared many of the concerns of local people to these new plans. I made a promise that I would work to see a more sensible plan brought forward and I am glad that my actions have resulted in a wholesale redesign of the scheme along this stretch of road.”

Below is a letter outlining the scheme changes sent by Cllr Kieran Quinn to local resident Teresa Smith.

The main changes include:

· No raised Tram Line. The track will be level with the rest of the road. There will be no barrier or physical restriction to vehicles crossing the track.

· Significantly reduced turning bans in the area.

· Proposed restrictions on loading will now only occur at peak times (between 0700-10.00 and 16.00-19.00)

· A number of proposed waiting restrictions have also been removed.

Christmas online advent calendar from GM Police

Saturday, 3 December 2011

www.gmp.police.uk/adventcalendar

Greater Manchester Police know that the festive season is not only a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy themselves it is also a time for criminals looking for easy pickings.

To remind everyone about the need to be extra vigilant GMP have launched an online advent calendar. Each window contains a piece of artwork created by the children of GMP officers and staff, along with a crime prevention message.

Please take a moment to open an advent window each day and receive a small piece of Crime Prevention Advice along with a festive Photo.

Christmas Lights Switch On

Thursday, 24 November 2011

With the Town Centre on course to be finished early next year and looking the best it has for some time it was always going to be a Christmas switch on to look forward to. Local people turned up in their hundreds to have a good time and enjoy the entertainment.

All your Droylsden Councillors helped out but it was Droylsden East Councillor Susan Quinn who as Civic Mayor had the honour to press the button and start the celebrations.

As Sue said "The faces in the crowd, especially among the towns young told its own story and said to me that it was well worth it.

"But it isn't just about smiling faces, the switch ons can also help the local economy by bringing in much-needed revenue for local businesses.

Droylsden East Councillor and Council Leader Cllr Kieran Quinn said: "Although funds are limited more than ever before, this time of year should be a time when we celebrate and look forward to the festive holidays and I would argue that, now more than ever, this should be the case.

"I attended the Droylsden lights switch on and I thought it was absolutely brilliant. Every penny laid out on the occasion was money well spent.

That’s not just my opinion but a view held by the hundreds who turned out to take part.”

Cllr Jim Middleton added "As is the case with everything your council does, our Christmas lights switch ons are for the benefit of the residents and businesses. They may seem extravagant to some, but the majority accept how if they bring happiness to people and trade to the town's businesses; that must be a good thing."

Remembrance Sunday Services

Saturday, 19 November 2011

As usual the Droylsden parade and service was well attended with seemingly more people turning out than last year. What was especially noticeable were the large numbers of young people in attendance.

If ever there was a time to recognise the fact that so many people have laid down their lives to protect our democratic freedoms - it is now.

That’s what made the Littlemoss service (above) so special.

Inscribed on the new memorial are the names of the fallen from the 14-18 war - however the fact that they are still commemorated by Droylsden residents nearly a century since their deaths signifies the special place our armed services have in our town.

We will remember them

Above; Members of the Droylsden British Legion with Cllr Susan Quinn - the Mayor of Tameside - accompanied by Cllrs Ged Cooney, Jim Middleton and Cllr Kieran Quinn the Leader of Tameside Council.

Town Centre Clock back where it belongs

Wednesday, 16 November 2011

It’s only been back a few days - yet already local people are contacting your Labour Councillors to tell us how great it is to see our town centre clock back and fully refurbished.

It has returned after an absence of 2 years and its true what people say - it’s not until something is taken away that you realise how much you miss it.

The clock has been fully restored and repainted – looking better than new.

The work in Droylsden is coming to an end and moving through Audenshaw towards Ashton. The last few years have been tough but already we can see the benefits that this investment is bringing to Droylsden.

Latest Community Newsletter delivered

Your Labour team like to keep residents up to date with the work of your local Councillors.

Every year we deliver at least 6 leaflets / letters and a Christmas card.

This year (2011) is no different. Reproduced below is our most recent newsletter.

With the year coming to an end we will soon be delivering our annual and popular Christmas card.

GOVERNMENT CUTS FORCE DROYLSDEN POLICE STATION ENQUIRY DESK TO CLOSE

Monday, 14 November 2011

Crime in Droylsden fell over the last decade due to the resources invested by the last Labour Government.

Independent checks on crime statistics confirm that local people are safer now than for many years.

Earlier this year your Labour team helped lead a campaign highlighting how the Tory led Government was forcing an unprecedented and massive 20% cut to Police budgets.

These Tory cuts mean the loss of over 3000 frontline & support officers - throughout all towns in Gtr Manchester.

The concerns we raised remain. How will these huge & draconian cuts to police funds affect Droylsden?

As Cllr Sue Quinn said, “Over the last few weeks we have been knocking on doors, having a conversation with local people about issues in our town and seeing how we can help.

The one topic that comes up time and again are the cuts. Local people are afraid about what will happen, not only to them and their families, but also to the area we live.”

As Cllr Jim Middleton said “If we are to keep extra police on our streets we have to accept that this has to happen.”

We will stand firm and make sure that our police station is not under threat from the Tory cuts.

Littlemoss memorial unveiled

On a very wet and rain soaked Saturday in September - Littlemoss residents, your 3 local Labour Councillors, as well as members of the Royal British Legion in Droylsden, came together to unveil a new purpose built marble memorial stone to commemorate those from Littlemoss who gave their life in the defence of this country.

Tameside’s Mayor Cllr Susan Quinn said “It is fitting that it was a Droylsden Councillor who unveiled the memorial stone. I am immensely proud to be asked to lead the first service here on Sunday November 13th at 3pm. “

As Cllr Jim Middleton (pictured) said “It must be about 8 years ago when I was first approached to help restore the memorial garden.” “I visited the garden and was impressed by the vision and determination of local residents, especially Sandra Street, to get things done.”

Speaking at the event Cllr Kieran Quinn said “We were on board from the start; we knew it would take time to get all the money together however we agree that the unveiling of the memorial stone is a fitting conclusion.

The pictures from the remembrance service will be ready soon and we will share them with you.

Your 3 Droylsden East Councillors along with the "Littlemoss friends group" helping them achieve their aims and restore the war memorial garden

TOWN CENTRE PLANS

Villemomble Square is a gateway to Droylsden’s centre. Because of the Metro it was remodelled to accommodate the new road layout, helping with traffic flows in the town centre. (pictured above is your Labour team before the work started)

The Square was not planned to be finished until late next year (2012) however following concerns raised by your Labour Councillors on behalf of residents and traders the work started a few weeks ago.

It was promised that the materials used on the square would be of the highest quality. The work is being carried out in 2 tranches. The first is now completed - in time for the town centre Christmas lights switch on for November 15th - with the final tranche being started in the new year. (a full report will appear soon)

This will allow the compound in the centre to be removed freeing up the space for the festive season.

The plans included the return of our popular town clock which was welcomed back last week.

Your Labour team have already received many delighted comments from local people about how our town centre is close to completion, and a full report will be published soon.

VOLUNTEERS HELP TO TIDY UP THE CANAL BANK

One of the newest Droylsden volunteer groups - formed last year with the help of your Labour team - was the "friends of Droylsden canal"

Although the canal through our town is supposed to be maintained and improved by British Waterways, with a clear schedule of activity, over the years this has not happened.

Residents who live nearby were no longer prepared to sit back and do nothing and agreed, following a public meeting, to set up this volunteer group.

Councillors Kieran & Susan Quinn have lent a helping hand and as Kieran said " Given the current financial situation many more of these groups will be needed to keep our area pleasant; so I thank everyone who has helped and ask anyone who lives nearby to join in and help."

If you want to help out ring one of your Labour team and we will pass on your details etc.

BUTCHERS ARMS DEMOLISHED

Since our article earlier this year, about the demolition of this pub, your Labour team received many comments from readers. The vast majority were in favour as the building was an eyesore and clearly unsafe. However a couple of replies shared their sadness to lose another pub.

As Cllr Middleton said “Our promise - that once demolished, the site would be cleared and tidied – was carried out quickly.

Until a permanent plan is drawn up the site will formally be made into a temporary car park. Droylsden F.C. have approached us requesting exclusive use on match days which we support and expect to see happen.

Droylsden flying Club

One of the unsuccessful YOU CHOOSE applications was from the Droylsden Flying Club. This is a club that promotes the traditional pastime, raising and racing pigeons.

They wanted to help older and disabled residents take an active part in the club by providing digital timing devices.

Your 3 Droylsden Labour Councillors made sure that such a good request got support.

Pictured with Cllr Jim Middleton is John Bancroft a senior club member

A NEW BENCH BRINGS MUCH NEEDED RESPITE

Your Labour team try hard to help whenever we can.

Cllr Kieran Quinn was approached when Rose - a keen dog walker - asked if we could put a bench along the route she took every day.

Without a rest halfway it was becoming difficult for Rose to keep her dog exercised. We were happy to help.

Above you can see Rose take a well earned rest on the new bench

You Chose - Droylsden won

“YOU CHOOSE” is the scheme devised by Tameside Council to return the proceeds of recycling to local people, by letting residents select and vote for the schemes they want to see get help.

Some areas of the UK aren’t as committed to recycling as here. In Tameside we have been serious about recycling for almost 2 decades and we have the results to show for our efforts.

Because of our success, we secured, from the money saved from land fill taxes, £500 000 to give back to local groups. This was shared out fairly and Droylsden had £47k to distribute.

At alively and well attended Droylsden event in late spring, over 100 people heard presentations from the 19 separate applications. Following a public vote 16 qualified for money.

One of the winning groups were the pupils at St Stephen’s primary who had raised chicks from eggs and wanted to buy a chicken coop for their small flock so that they could see them grow to maturity and enjoy the eggs they lay.

Picture shows Cllr Kieran Quinn with St Stephen’s pupils alongside their new chicken coop

Election victory for Kieran Quinn

Saturday, 7 May 2011

Voters in Droylsden East elected Councillor Kieran Quinn to continue representing the ward for another 4 years.

Kieran received 62% of all the votes cast getting 1969 votes - an increase of over 25% and one of the highest Labour votes in Tameside.

Kieran's majority also increased to 1374 - an increase of 50%.

On a good night for Labour in Droylsden; the total votes cast for all the other parties fell by over 200 votes - with the Tory vote the biggest loser overall.

Kieran and the Droylsden Labour team are well known for their commitment to the town and their record for getting the best for Droylsden.

As Kieran said "I am honoured to once again represent Droylsden. The next 4 years are going to be difficult, especially as we come to terms with the impact of the unfair Tory cuts."

"Droylsden is well placed to deal with the difficulties ahead because we have planned investment coming to our town e.g. the new £30 million Academy opening in January as well as the completion of the Metrolink works through Droylsden around October.”

“We will need to campaign for local people starting with a campaign to return the pensioner’s winter fuel allowance taken away by the Tory led Government."

"I will also continue to work with local community groups starting on Sunday when along with Councillor Susan Quinn we will be rolling up our sleeves, joining volunteers to help clear up the canal through Droylsden."

Kieran is pictured above with Jonny Reynolds MP (L) and Andrew Gwynne MP (R)

Train Whistle finally stopped

Wednesday, 13 April 2011

Cllr Kieran Quinn and David Heyes MP along with local residents affected by the Whistle Board

Earlier this year we told you how in September last year Network Rail installed boards instructing train drivers to sound their whistle as they approached the Littlemoss pedestrian crossing.

When Littlemoss residents contacted your Droylsden Labour team they explained how the noise was making their lives a misery.

After much pressure Network rail agreed to remove the whistle board. This happened on Sunday (April 10th).

We are pleased with this outcome however not as pleased as one of the affected residents who sent the message below.

Dear David, Kieran and Gary

You will be pleased to hear that on Sunday 10 April 2011 Network Rail placed a temporary sign to restrict speed to 40 on the far side of the Littlemoss bridge and have finally removed the whistleboard! It is heaven!

The last seven months have been very stressful and it was only the hope that this day might arrive that kept us going. Many thanks for all your assistance and support.

We were happy to help

No7 Bus SAVED

Tuesday, 12 April 2011

Number 7 Bus SAVED thanks to campaign led by your Labour Councillors & supported by local residents

Earlier this year your Labour team became aware of plans being put forward, by Stagecoach the bus operator, to remove the No7 service from Droylsden.

As Cllr Kieran Quinn said “The No7 is a popular bus route travelling from Ashton to Stockport - via Droylsden. It is a bus route that is both essential and also well used. It was vital we won this campaign and kept the No7 service through Droylsden.”

Stagecoach knew they would be challenged and needed to put forward very strong reasons for this service To attempt to qualify this change by blaming the Metro works as the reason showed their reasons for this change were weak at best.

Lots of residents approached your Labour team to do something to save the No7 and a special thanks needs to go to the residents of Park House for all their hard work getting signatures on a local petition.

The decision has now been made. The No7 service is to remain however as a compromise the service frequency will be changed from 6 buses an hour currently to 4 an hour.

Well done to everyone involved.

THE TORIES AND LIB DEMS STOPPED FROM SELLING OFF OUR ANCIENT WOODLAND

Saturday, 19 March 2011

THE TORIES AND LIB DEMS STOPPED FROM SELLING OFF OUR ANCIENT WOODLAND FOR NOW

Our ancient woodlands and forests are part of our heritage.

The Tories wanted to sell them off.

Changes to the Public Bodies Bill, which was about to go through Parliament, gave Tory and LibDem ministers the power to sell off 85 per cent of our forests – with no protection for public access or biodiversity.

Labour led the successful fight against the plans in Parliament. With your help we put pressure on this Tory-led Government.

The Prime Minister David Cameron has been forced into a humiliating U-turn on this issue. Our ancient forests and woodlands are a vital part of our natural heritage providing environmental benefits and public enjoyment.

Together we made sure the Tories & LibDems knew this land was not for sale, but we need to remain vigilant.

Petition to save our police

Labour in Tameside has launched a petition opposing the Tory led Government’s cuts to Greater Manchester’s Police numbers.

Local residents are angry and feel let down by the broken promises of the LibDems and Torys on police numbers.

Many have already signed our petition. They are urging their friends and neighbours to send a message to the Government that the CUTS to police numbers are the WRONG CUTS.

“I believe axing 1387 Greater Manchester Police Officers are the wrong cuts at the wrong time.” said Droylsden East Councillor Kieran Quinn whi is also Tameside Council’s Labour leader

Cllr Kieran Quinn added: “Residents feel let down and who wouldn’t? Nobody voted for police cuts at the General Election.”

Labour has a proud record for investing in more Police. The Tories & LibDems campaigned for more police during the election which make their cuts even more unacceptable.

Our petition is below and proving very popular

WHISTLES TO BE SILENCED AT LITTLEMOSS LEVEL CROSSING

Sunday, 13 February 2011

Cllr Kieran Quinn and David Heyes MP along with local residents affected by the Whistle Board

In September last year Network Rail installed boards instructing train drivers to sound their whistle as they approached the Littlemoss level crossing. We first became aware of the whistle board problem when Littlemoss residents contacted both of us separately to say that every train, from early in the morning until late at night, was sounding a very loud whistle and that the noise was making their lives a misery.

Despite several letters from each of us as Council Leader and Member of Parliament Network Rail proved very difficult to pin down. Requests for Network Rail to meet and discuss the problem seemed to meet with delaying tactics. We decided that we needed to join forces to tackle Network Rail on behalf of the residents and we demanded a meeting with Network Rail bosses.

At the meeting Network Rail told us that they had installed the whistle boards because they had concerns about pedestrian safety at the level crossing. During the meeting Network Rail gave vague answers when they were asked about the investigations that had led to the whistleboards being installed. They could not give any evidence of any risk assessments or of any serious consideration of alternative solutions. We advised Network Rail that if the whistles continued the Council would use its powers to take them to court for Noise Nuisance.

At the end of the meeting we insisted that Network Rail go away and consider alternative options. A meeting was set for 11 February 2011 for Network Rail to come back with some answers. In the meantime, to keep the pressure on, a letter went from the Member of Parliament to the Chief Executive of Network Rail with a Freedom of information Request for all internal paperwork on the issue. This week, before that second meeting could take place, Network Rail contacted us to say that they would impose speed restrictions instead and that the whistles would stop in three weeks time. RESULT!!!

By working together with residents and refusing to be fobbed off we have at last been able to force Network Rail to see sense. This has taken longer than we would have liked to reach a successful conclusion and we would like to thank you all for your patience and for continuing to trust us to do our best for our constituents. We hope that you are as pleased as we are that our joint efforts have delivered the desired outcome.

Cllr Kieran Quinn - Droylsden East Councillor

David Heyes - Member of Parliament

Help keep a Droylsden No7 Bus Route

Thursday, 27 January 2011

RESIDENTS are up in arms at plans to axe a popular bus route through Droylsden.

The No7 bus travels from Ashton to Stockport via Droylsden. It is a bus route that is both essential and also well used. Operators Stagecoach say the running of the number 7 that goes through the town has been adversely affected by work on the Metrolink so are asking users to give their views in an online questionnaire.

One of the options is to cut Droylsden out completely, the idea being to ‘alter the route to omit Droylsden by running via Ashton Old Road between Openshaw and Ashton.’ It is this option that the Droylsden councillors along with residents who use the bus are campaigning against.

The other two options are to cut the frequency of the bus or change the route through neighbouring Reddish. The company plan to implement one or more of the options.

On their website Stagecoach said: “Customers will be aware that our performance on this service has been adversely affected by roadworks in the Droylsden and Audenshaw areas, caused by construction of the new Metrolink line. As these works are set to continue for a further significant period of time, we have been looking at the options available to us to try to ensure that we can maintain an attractive and reliable service.”

Droylsden Councillor and Executive Council Leader, Cllr Kieran Quinn said: "Get on board to save popular bus service"

"It is really important that as many of our residents as possible take part in this consultation if they want this popular bus to remain coming through our town.

As Cllr Susan Quinn added “There is no point failing to take part then complaining if the service gets axed from Droylsden. I know it is very popular with our residents, so they need to let Stagecoach know as well. Remember Stagecoach may decide to implement more than one of the options and I’m sure that once the service has been cut we will find it extremely hard to get it back on track, even once the Metrolink is up and running.

In finishing Cllr Jim Middleton added “We are all aware that the construction work is causing problems for everyone who lives in the area, but that should not be used as an excuse to cut services to our town even more.”

Stagecoach plan to implement their changes from January 30 so residents should make their views known by then by clicking on: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=71D4VhehtwVK9Y6bT3Y1gA%3d%3d.

The above photo shows Cllrs Susan & Kieran Quinn with local residents who have petitioned Stagecoach to keep the No7 travelling through Droylsden.