The Raynes Park Community Forum met on Wednesday 16 October 2024 to discuss the council's developing Flood Strategy, the Warm and Well project, and updates on local infrastructure. Key decisions included the confirmation that a public consultation on the Flood Strategy will take place in the autumn, and that the Friends of Raynes Park Station have received awards for their work on the station's greening initiatives.

Flood Strategy

The London Borough of Merton is developing a new Flood Strategy, which will be subject to a public consultation later in the autumn. Kris Witherington, Engagement and Consultation Manager for the council, informed the forum that the consultation would focus on the overall approach to flood prevention and the issue of surface water. Residents interested in being kept informed can sign up for the council's weekly e-newsletter. Councillor Victoria Wilson noted that while the town centre was unaffected by recent flooding, issues occurred at Abbott Avenue and at the end of Crescent Road. A resident suggested installing a depth marker under a bridge, which Kris Witherington agreed to raise with the flood team. The impact of new building developments on flood risk was also discussed, with Councillor Wilson stating that planning applications already require developers to review flood risk. Residents were encouraged to contribute their thoughts on how Merton is preparing for worsening storms due to climate change during the upcoming consultation.

Warm and Well Project

Jonathan Green from the Wimbledon Guild introduced the Warm and Well project, which offers a range of services for individuals aged 18 and over. The Guild provides fitness and exercise classes, discussion and social groups, a wellbeing service for those over 50, and a welfare grants programme. They also assist residents aged over 65 or with long-term health conditions in accessing the council's handyperson service, although the current handyman is retiring and it is uncertain if a replacement will be appointed. The Warm and Well programme specifically addresses energy concerns and the cost-of-living crisis, offering free home energy assessments, support with debts and arrears, help with identifying scams, and access to the priority services register for vulnerable residents. Jonathan Green expressed confidence that attendees could implement at least two changes to reduce their energy costs. The Guild is funded by the London Borough of Merton, donations, fundraising, grants, and income from investments, and relies heavily on its over 200 volunteers.

Railway Station

Elizabeth Lane from the Friends of Raynes Park Station provided an update on the ongoing work at the station, highlighting recent awards for community involvement and sustainable improvements. Terracing and stepping stones have been completed on the embankment to protect chestnut tree roots, and drought-resistant shrubs will be planted. Funding from the London Borough of Merton has supported the purchase of tools and plants, and a small tool shed next to the station has been refurbished. On platform 4, a 128m flower bed was planted over the summer, and plans are in place to plant shade-tolerant, drought-resistant species and bulbs next year, supported by funding from the SWR Biodiversity team. Wooden planters are also to be installed on other platforms. A resident raised concerns about signage at the station, suggesting it implied South Western Railway (SWR) was solely responsible for the improvements. Elizabeth Lane explained the signs were from the SWR biodiversity team and that the Friends group would be installing a noticeboard to display their certificates and links. She also confirmed that there is still funding available from SWR for station improvements and a continuous need for volunteers. Discussions also touched upon the South side embankment, where National Rail has not granted a license for volunteer work, although fly-tipping has been cleared.

Update from Councillors

Councillor Victoria Wilson provided updates on several local issues. Feasibility funding has been secured for step-free access at Raynes Park Station, with outline plans for a lift and new bridge, though works are unlikely before 2028/29. The Building Control team is investigating a building struck by a bus, and environmental health is checking a digital billboard on Coombe Lane for compliance with planning conditions regarding overnight dimming. The council is increasing its tree planting rate and offers a tree sponsorship scheme. The new Walking and Cycling Strategy is due for scrutiny in November. Councillor Page mentioned that works on the Motspur Park station lifts are delayed due to a missing part but are expected to be completed by late November. Celebrations for the 100th anniversary of Motspur Park station on 12 July 2025 are being organised.

Open Forum

During the open forum, Helen Alexandra Allen raised concerns about traffic flow at the junction of Bushey Road and Grand Drive, suggesting changes to traffic light sequencing or a roundabout as potential solutions. Councillor Wilson noted that Transport for London controls traffic lights and issues can be reported online. Gary Hunt discussed the London Borough of Merton's proposals for new double yellow lines on Blenheim Road, with a consultation open until 18 October, noting that residents feel existing restrictions and issues caused by wider refuse vehicles and new developments are not fully addressed. Brian Cole informed residents about 'Froth', a new jazz, coffee, and bar near the library, which is applying for an evening license for live music. A resident raised concerns about rubbish and car parts being left outside a car dealership on Wyke Road, which Councillor Wilson offered to investigate. Chris Edge announced an upcoming business event hosted by the Merton Chamber of Commerce on 29 January. A resident also highlighted the danger of the Burstow Road junction with Kingston Road, where a painted roundabout is causing confusion, a long-standing issue that officers previously reviewed. Councillor Wilson suggested raising this with the ward councillors.