The Brent Connects - Kingsbury and Kenton meeting on Tuesday 16 January 2024 discussed concerns regarding children's playground improvements in Roe Green Park, potential advertising in green spaces, and traffic congestion in the Kingsbury area. Decisions were made to investigate playground upgrades and to provide further information on advertising in parks and adult social care expenditure at future meetings.

Roe Green Park Playground Improvements

A significant concern raised at the meeting was the need for substantial improvements to the children's playground in Roe Green Park. Residents had previously presented a plan to the council detailing how the playground could be enhanced. A meeting scheduled for January of the previous year to discuss this did not take place, and there has been no further response from the Parks and Leisure Department since then. Neighbourhood Manager Shirley Holmes will be sending an enquiry to the Head of Service for Parks and Leisure and will provide an update to residents by 6 March.

Advertising in Parks and Green Spaces

The meeting addressed a question raised about increasing advertising in parks and other green spaces as a potential method to generate additional income as part of the Budget Consultation 2024/25. This proposal has caused increased concern among residents regarding its potential impact on these valued public spaces. The Finance Department is expected to present an update on this matter at the Spring round of meetings, as there are currently no concrete plans in place.

Traffic Congestion in Kingsbury

Daily congestion around Kingsbury Circle, Fryent Way, Kingsbury High Road, and the Honey Pot Lane area was highlighted as a significant issue, with demands for relevant action from the Council. Neighbourhood Manager Shirley Holmes will liaise with the Healthy Streets and Parking Department to provide an update at the Spring round meetings.

Adult Social Care Budget Consultation

A question was posed regarding the Budget Consultation 2024/25, specifically focusing on priority aspects and expenditure within Adult Social Care. Further information was requested about any new approaches being explored to reduce expenditure in this area. Rav Jassr will liaise with the Finance team to request detailed information for the Spring round meetings.