Restoration work begins on big tree

I am happy report that the tree experts have now moved in to start work on re-shaping our magnificent plane tree in the middle of the garden which suffered damage in the flash storms of 23rd October. Westminster Council kindly speeded up our application for this work to be done – necessary because we are in a Conservation Area which means the majority of the trees in the Garden are subject to preservation orders -- & hopefully the operation will be finished by Friday. Meanwhile please continue to give the tree a wide berth on safety grounds. It's hoped that the Christmas lights can be re-strung to function as before & it was certainly an encouraging omen when in accordance with tradition they were briefly illuminated at the end of the recent Bonfire Night celebrations!

What is happening to our lovely plane tree?

......It’s the focal point of our Garden but residents will remember that a huge branch was brought down in the flash storms of 23rd October & the tree has been cordoned off ever since, awaiting the attentions of the tree surgeons who are going to lop it back into shape. As we are in a Conservation Area the majority of the trees in the Garden are subject to preservation orders which meant that planning permission had to be sought. Fortunately Westminster Council -- which normally asks for a six-week notice period on all such applications -- kindly pushed this one through in record time, as a result of which work is due to begin tomorrow (Tues) & will hopefully finish by Friday. Meanwhile please continue to steer well clear of the tree as in recent weeks on safety grounds. It's hoped that the Christmas lights can be re-strung to function as before & it was certainly an encouraging omen when in accordance with tradition they were briefly illuminated at the end of the recent Bonfire Night celebrations!

Bonfire Night goes with a Bang

Initially the omens didn't look too good for Saturday as the rain hammered down throughout the day but come the evening, we were lucky enough to catch the window of dry weather between downpours, ensuring a good turn-out in the Garden to enjoy the bonfire (slightly smaller than usual) & the fireworks (“best-ever”, according to one seasoned watcher). Scores of other slightly less intrepid residents watched from their patios & balconies. Then within a few minutes of the display ending we were treated to a second spectacle, courtesy of the neighbouring Crescent Garden.

Thanks to our gardeners, Gravitas, for building the bonfire & to Formosa Board member Marc Scrimshire for organising, ably assisted by Irina Miklavchich who people might remember as our events supremo during her own time on the Board.