Önder Şahan: meet the owner of the “best vegetarian restaurant” Page No. 13
WATERLOO HAS A NEW TfL PROJECT
THE EVOLUTION OF APPRENTCESHIPS
Page No. 2
Page No. 14
FREE September - october 2017 NO: 1
20,000 copies distributed in the London Borough of Lambeth wards of Bishop’s, Clapham Town, Ferndale, Larkhall, Oval, Prince’s Stockwell and Vassall
Clinton is coming to Lambeth
H
illary Clinton will come to the Southbank Centre as part of this year’s London Literature Festival totalk about her new book, ‘What Happened’.
This year London Literature Festival opens with the 50th anniversary of Poetry International, and it has special guests including Tom Hanks, Philip Pullman, Rebecca Solnit, Annie Leibovitz and Karl Ove Knausgaard. Speakers will talk about their books to Londoners in the Southbank Centre and a live reading of Nelson Mandela’s memoirs will follow. But perhaps the most anticipated name of the festival is Hillary Clinton, who will talk about her new book ‘What Happened’, published this week. The book
is anaccount of her experience running as the Democratic Party’s candidate in last year’s US Presidential election. Clinton will also be making an appearance at the Cheltenham Literature Festival on the same day (October 15). The two events are Clinton’s only UK appearances to discuss her book. It promises to be a unique opportunity for the audience to hear about Clinton’s personal experiences during a presidential race never short of controversy, as well as her candid reflections on how she coped in the aftermath of the defeat. Please see Southbank Centre website for specific event times and dates: www.southbankcentre.co.uk
© Marc Nozell Tickets for Hillary Clinton’s event will go on sale to Southbank Centre members on September 14, with the general public sale opening on September 15; The Festivals runs from 13 October - 1 November 2017.
Inside
Don’t Miss Lambeth Heritage Festival 2017
Lower Marsh: One of the oldest and best-loved markets
Waterloo Action Centre: Join the Community Life
Southbank Place: Your new community hub
Local News
Another Controversial Project: Waterloo Road and Roundabout
T
ransport for London (TfL) are proposing major changes to Waterloo Road and Roundabout. This follows their implementation of major alterations at the Elephant and on Blackfriars Road and Harleyford Road, all of which have been widely criticised. TfL proposals for Westminster Bridge Road are currently under construction despite opposition from Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust and the RNIB who took legal proceedings against TfL plans but won only minor changes. An online petition gained a large number of signatures. A major issue at St Thomas was the safety of people arriving by bus as the bus stops will be separated from the pavment by the cycle tracks.
meeting of the South Bank Forum on 7th September attended by Val Shawcross, Deputy Major for Transport. This gave an opportunity for views to be expressed to a very senior figure at TfL and the meeting about a wide range of issues.
The TfL proposals for Waterloo Road and Roundabout are also contentious. Formal consultation closed in August but views can still be expressed to elected representatives as decisions have not been
- Create a healthier and safer environment for more people to walk, cycle and use public transport
finalised. Following local concerns about Waterloo Road, Kate Hoey, MP for Vauxhall (which includes Waterloo), arranged for a special
a long-term vision to encourage more Londoners to walk and cycle and use public transport by making London’s streets healthier, safer and more welcoming
2 | Lambeth Life
If Tfl decides to go ahead, work will start at the end of 2018 and finish in early 2020. TfL says its proposal ‘would create better walking and cycling routes, a new greener public space and an upgraded bus station.’ According to TfL, their proposals would: - Reduce the dominance of traffic, allowing people to better enjoy the area about on to - Create a sense of place with Stamthe proposed new greener public ford Street square, having the potential to is abolished benefit biodiversity, landscaping traffic would and wildlife seek a route through small residential streets. Apart - Keep buses and traffic moving for the problem for residents this through the area would also be an issue for cyclists These proposals form part of the as Cornwall Road is part of the Mayor of London’s plan for Healthy TfL designated quiet cyclists route. Streets – “a long-term vision to These roads are also very busy at encourage more Londoners to walk rush hours with pedestrians flocking and cycle and use public transport by to and from Waterloo Stations. making London’s streets healthier, The proposed narrowing of Waterloo safer and more welcoming.” Road, abolishing the bus lane and On the other hand, many locals widening the pavements, also seems contend that the current proposals counterproductive to some people. will have results exactly opposite to Waterloo Station is the busiest stathose intended. If, as TfL propose, the right turn from Waterloo Round- tion in the UK and at the morning
rush hour there are long queues of commuters waiting for buses. Surely if TfL’s earlier idea of bus lanes are needed anywhere, it must be here? More fast flowing buses to speed commuters on to their next destination, not abolishing the bus lane. The widening of the pavements also ignores rising awareness of the dangerous pollution levels in Waterloo. The community’s own local plan stresses the importance of pedestrians being helped to take routes away from the major roads. Pollution levels drop significantly on the side streets. Many Londoners will have noticed ambulances stuck in traffic as TfL
September - October 2017
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has narrowed roads. There is a major ambulance Station on Waterloo Road. Residents of Edward Henry House, a housing co-op nearby, have produced a report arguing that the TfL proposals would: - Increase congestion and reduce air quality, already among the worst in Europe! - Bring Stamford Road Street to a halt from backed up traffic - Create rat runs on Cornwall Road and other residential streets - Destroy the public space and beautiful mature trees outside St John’s - Create more conflict between busses, cars, bikes, and pedestrians
Waterloo Action Centre is finding that many people grumbling about the proposals will respond the consultation because the impression has become widespread that TfL only listens to cyclists and not to the full range of pedestrians and other needing to move around safely and quickly. So responding would be banging your head against a brick wall. Some people who have sight loss or other disabilities have found that their journeys are more treacherous since TfL changes such as bus stops on islands and abolition of the subways at the Elephant. A loss of subways is also planned for Waterloo Road. Those who care about mobility for all are arguing that no changes be implemented without detailed attention to safety for all.
Waterloo residents fought off the Garden Bridge proposal. Does the same fate await this TfL’s project? We’ll know by the end of the year – for now, let us know your thoughts, for or against.
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Local News
Garden Bridge: A Local Victory
W
e Londoners are used to seeing changes taking place across the city every day, and we have been witness to many bolder development projects in London - both good and bad. The proposal for a Garden Bridge was an ill-conceived attempt at being bold. It was contentious, unwanted and unnecessary.
While the Garden Bridge Trust - a charity created to oversee the project - presented the bridge as residents had understandable concerns about it. The plan was to accommodate 2500 visitors in a confined space, along with a Disney-style queuing system on a busy river walk. Activists took on politicians and celebrity proponents of the garden bridge, such as actress Joanna Lumley, who devised the proposal for “a peaceful garden floating above the Thames”. Campaigners raised genuine concerns about the lack of public consultation and procurement processes besides the enormous cost to the public purse. The Garden Bridge was initially cost at £60m in 2012 but the figure rapidly rose to £185m in 2015. The Trust secured £60m of public funding but only £69m of private money, leaving it far short of the £200m final cost. Despite this, the Garden 4 | Lambeth Life
Bridge Trust signed a construction contract in March 2016 despite the fact it had no rights to build on either side of the river, insufficient construction funding and none of the 3 public guarantees required by planning permission. Garden Bridge Trust Chair Lord Mervyn Davies said that the project
would provide “a beautiful new green space in the heart of London, free to use and open to all”, and that it would “showcase the best of British talent and innovation.” However, the bridge’s manufactured parts were made in Italy and the construction company was French! The bridge would also have been closed for 12 days a year in addition to public holidays and special occasions. There was to be a credit card-style reader at either end for ‘voluntary donations’ which made a mockery of it being “free and open to all.”
While things seemed to be progressing, albeit slowly, the bridge faced strong opposition from locals who questioned whether another bridge was really needed within 200m of Waterloo Bridge and 600m of Blackfriars Bridge. With government cuts hitting health care, libraries and education, why should
needed is leased to Coin Street Community Builders from Lambeth Council, and was left to the people of London who do not have a garden – therefore the Garden Bridge would have privatised
such an enormous amount of money be spent on something that was neither a proper bridge nor a garden? Serious safety concerns were overlooked and environmentally the bridge would have been an eco-disaster, with over 15,000 tonnes of concrete clad in Glencore mined metals being used to construct the bridge.
called Thames Central Open Spaces (TCOS) started a petition to cancel the project. It gathered over 23,000 signatures from all over the world.
Although the project offered to plant more than 270 trees and 2,000 shrubs and climbing plants on the bridge, it would have destroyed 38 trees, most of which are on the south side having been planted as a memorial to civilians killed in World War II. The land on the South Bank that the Garden Bridge
one of the last remaining public green spaces along the riverside. Due to these concerns, local group
Over three years, TCOS lobbied politicians, London Assembly members, journalists, celebrities and key organisations such as the National Audit Office and the Public Accounts Committee and instigated several investigations into the Garden Bridge Trust and its sponsor Transport for London’s highly questionable practices. The efforts of local campaigners finally won the support of London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The Garden Bridge Trust, the charity that was overseeing the £200m project, said it was scrapping the plans after London Mayor Sadiq Khan refused to sign off the costs of maintaining the bridge. Truly, a local victory!
Festival Page
Lambeth Heritage Festival returns for the fifth time to delve into the exciting history of our borough’s people and places with special talks, walks, films, music, theatre, exhibitions and workshops covering a range of interests. The festival started at the beginning of September and will continue until the end of the month. There are over 60 events this year. Too many to choose from? Don’t worry – here is our guide to help you decide what to go to… Documenting Lambeth: Wikipedia Workshop Come and get practical tips and experience in improving and creating content for Wikipedia… 23 September, 12 pm – 4 pm, Streatham Library, 63 Streatham High Road, SW16 1PN
“The festival offers the opportunity to explore some of the more unusual places in this amazing borough that we all live or work in and know. This year there will be tours of Lambeth Palace, Brixton Windmill, and Henry Tate’s gardens in Streatham as well as guided walks that uncover very different and parts of our history: the radical history of the South Bank, the ancient ‘village’ of Lambeth, the ‘Front Line’ along Railton Road, Brixton’s history of music hall, Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, or John Ruskin’s Herne Hill. You can help celebrate Brockwell Lido’s 80th birthday, visit Brixton’s Chocolate Museum or have your say at Brixton’s Digital Soap Box. Lambeth Heritage Festival really does showcase some of the best things that are taking place in Lambeth...” 6 | Lambeth Life
Councillor Sonia Winifred Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture, Lambeth Council
Hot Chocolate An Introductory History Talk An introduction to the history of hot chocolate with a focus on the relations between Britain, West Africa, and the Caribbean. Jamaican cocoa tea will be served… 24 September – 1 October, 3 pm, The Chocolate Museum, 187 Ferndale Road, Brixton, SW9 8BA
September - October 2017
Brockwell Lido, 1937-2017: 80 Years Young Talk There is a Lido in Brockwell Park because locals were already swimming in the big lake there from the 1890s. Celebrating the Lido’s 80th birthday, year-round daily swimmer and local historian Peter Bradley looks at 120 years of swimming in Brockwell Park… 25 September, 7 pm, The Lido Café, Dulwich Road, SE24 0PA
Dead Bodies Can’t Lie - Poor Yorick a moving tale of burials at Norwood Cemetery This talk by Colin Fenn to the Norwood Society delves into the story of the clearing of the churchyard of St George’s Hanover Square, the mass-exhumation of corpses and their reburial in West Norwood cemetery. 27th September, 7pm, Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, SW2 1AS
Vauxhall: a nice place in the country? A guided walk led by Lambeth archivist, Len Reilly, posing and answering the question, ‘Could Vauxhall have ever been a suburb?’ 28 September, 12.30 pm, Vauxhall Park, Fentiman Road, SW8 The Brixton Local Heroes project is all about celebrating and commemorating local people. This evening event presents a list of suggested names and culminates with a film screening and discussion of recent ‘local heroes’ who have contributed to society through arts, science, entertainment and politics. 27th September, 7pm, Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, SW2 1AS For further information: www.lambeth.gov.uk
250 Years of St Andrew’s Stockwell Talk By the middle of the 18th century, the good burghers of Stockwell Green were tiring of their long, Sunday journey to the parish church of St Mary, Lambeth. Their solution was to build a Chapel of Ease… An illustrated talk, given by Bill Linskey, local historian and resident. 23rd September, 2.30pm, St Andrew’s Church, Landor Road, Stockwell, SW9 9JE. Lambeth Life | 7
September - October 2017
Local News
Southbank Place: Your
We are sure that you are aware of the construction just behind the London Eye. The project, a joint venture from the Canary Wharf Group and Qatari Diar, will transform its part of Lambeth, and very may well provide London with a new iconic modern building on its skyline. Given its importance to the area, we decided to ask some of your questions to Richard Lines, Director of Canary Wharf Contractors Limited. What is the background story of help to rejuvenate the local area. The World War II. In this vein, the latest Yes, Southbank Place will be a leadpublic realm of the development will phase, Belvedere Gardens, uses the er in developing and rejuvenating the the Southbank Place project? Southbank Place is a new mixed-use development, created by Braeburn Estates, a joint venture between Canary Wharf Group and Qatari Diar. It consists of seven buildings, which will hold office space, retail outlets, residential homes and a public realm which everyone will be able to enjoy. Construction began at Southbank Place in April 2016 and is expected to be complete in 2019. Several leading architects and interior designers have worked on the project, and will 10 | Lambeth Life
be a new community hub, accessible Festival Star, an emblem originally to everyone in the area both residents designed by Abram Games, across the façade, paying homage to the and non-residents alike. events of the past. Southbank Place What is the importance of the lo- has also endeavoured to engage local people, and has employed a significal area for the project? cant number of Lambeth residents on Southbank Place has been designed the project. with sensitivity and in context of the history of the area. It surrounds the Do you think that Southbank Shell Building, which is the original Place will join your previous prosite of the Festival of Britain, held in jects, such as the Walkie Talkie, 1951 to celebrate advances in science as an iconic symbol on London’s and technology following the end of skyscape?
area around Waterloo station. The Shell site was in need of improvement and Southbank Place will become a new destination whilst also being beneficial to the local community. It’s an iconic location, which has a unique mix of residents, businesses and visitors, and is one of the tourist hotspots of our city. Through design and the inclusivity of the public realm, Southbank Place hopes to add to the diverse and exciting culture which already exists along the South Bank.
September - October 2017
new community hub! Budding Brunels, which allows Year 12 and 13 students to undertake work experience on the site. For many, this leads to a longer-term internship, allowing them to consider whether to pursue a career in construction. The project has been underpinned by a desire to build safely and to timescales, whilst being mindful of very close neighbours.
with the Shell Tower remaining and the original basement and supporting piles being retained. The reuse of existing structures saves on the embodied carbon of new materials. Of the structures that were demolished, over 99% of demolition material was diverted from landfill. Throughout construction we have partnered with a number of organisations to help reduce our footprint. Our onsite logistics are provided by Alandale. The efficient and timely movement of deliveries is important from a carbon perspective, but also to minimise our impact on the local community. Another project partner is Speedy Hire, who has set up an onsite hire shop to minimise the distance our subcontractors travel to get the tools and equipment they need to do the job. Speedy offer a fantastic range of ‘Green Option’ environmentally friendly products. To measure our impact, we use the BRE SmartWaste online platform. This allows us to track a wide variety of performance indications including carbon, and to make interventions where required.
For further informtion visit: www.southbank-place.com County Hall – Riverside What are the benefits of this conBuilding Could you tell us about the site’s struction for the local community Westminster Bridge Road plans to reduce its carbon footin Lambeth? London print? SE1 7PB The team at Southbank Place have worked extensively with local employment brokers to ensure that the development has a positive impact and creates jobs locally. Since the beginning of the year, over 100 Lambeth Borough residents have worked on the project, and almost half of employees on site live within 10 miles of the site. The team behind the development have opened a training site where construction workers can obtain CSCS qualifications, and have also taken part in initiatives such as
When we consider carbon we look at the whole project lifecycle, from design through construction and operation. We have designed a highly efficient energy centre and district heating system that will recycle heat that would otherwise be lost. Other technologies will include triple glazing, grey water recycling and solar panels.
The scheme is also reusing a significant amount of the existing structure,
Lambeth Life | 11
n a i l o t a n a c i t n e auth turkish cuisine TAS Restaurants is proud to support Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Registered charity no.1160024
Before the curtain rises & after the curtain falls a great meal before or after. Tas The Cut makes it easy and delicious to dine before or after the show, without any drama PRE OR AFTER
THEATRE MENU £13.95 PP
2 COURSES
CHOICE OF STARTER RED LENTIL SOUP v HUMUS: Pureed chickpeas with tahini, garlic and lemon v MAYDANOZ SALATASI (Tabbouleh) Chopped parsley salad with tomatoes, onions, cracked wheat, olive oil and lemon juice v ISPANAKLI YOGURT: Fresh spinach mixed with yogurt v SALAD: With fetta cheese
CHOICE OF MAIN COURSE v SPINACH: With potatoes v PASTA: With mixed vegetables PATATESLI DOMATES KOFTE: With couscous KOFTE: With couscous CHICKEN SHIS: With couscous CHICKEN GUVENCH: With couscous
TAS THE CUT 33 The Cut, Waterloo, London SE1 8LF (8 minutes from National Theatre) (2 minutes from The Old Vic)
020 7928 2111 • 020 7928 1444 www.tasrestaurants.co.uk thecut@ tasrestaurants.co.uk /tasrestaurants
/tasrestaurantsuk
/tasrestaurantsuk
Profile Page
Meet Önder Şahan
“The Owner of the ‘Best Vegetarian Restaurant”
Perhaps the fırst thıng you ımagıne when you thınk about Turkısh food ıs a chef serving Doner kebab next to a fire pit... But we will introduce you to an ınnovatıve Turkish chef whose restaurant was chosen as the “best vegetarian restaurant” ın London - Onder Sahan. Mr. Sahan started his career in Lambeth, workıng hıs was up from waıter to chef and then director of his restaurants. Now he even has an academy! He says, he is happy to have the chance to contribute to a society. “I came to the UK in 1990. Having worked in several jobs in restaurants, from being a waiter to a chef and eventually general manager, I decided to start my own business in 1999.
I wanted to explore London by walking, which I believe is the best way to understand a city and the areas with potential for growth. I spotted Lambeth. This was the pre-Jubilee line era. Although the neighbourhood did not seem to be well developed, it had great potential, welcoming intellectual people with its theatres. This encouraged me to start my business there. I thought that these theatre-lovers often visiting the area would appreciate a restaurant with unique ethnic food from Anatolia, the region I come from and a land offering great variety in every aspect of life, having hosted several civilisations and acting as a bridge between the eastern and the western world. When I talked to people in the neighbourhood about my intention of starting my business there, they supported me wholeheartedly. Therefore I opened my first TAS
restaurant in “The Cut”, a street minutes from the Old Vic Theatre. We were chosen as “best vegetarian restaurant” that year, and since then it has been a centre of attraction for creative and talented people from all walks of life. Soon afterwards, we opened the EV, restaurant, cafe and bar just at the exit of Southwark Tube Station. EV is one of the first restaurants built under a railway arch. The business grew more and more every day and we are now proud to serve Londoners in our chain of restaurants TAS, HAZ, Hazev, all over the city. In 2011, my partners and I founded Docklands Academy London for the education of future business leaders especially in the tourism and hospitality sector. I am happy to have the chance to contribute to a society which has always welcomed me and made me feel at home.”
33 The Cut, Waterloo, London SE1 8LF 020 7928 2111 020 7928 1444 www.tasretaurant.co.uk
Lambeth Life | 13
Local Organisation
The Evolution Of Apprenticeships by Rachel Tailor
L
ast month 18-year-old Ellie from Lambeth walked nervously into school to collect her A Level results. Her head was spinning. She was predicted excellent results and her future was lying ahead of her. What would she do next? Nervously opening the envelope, she scanned down - she’d done it. Her predicted high passing grades had come through and she’d got something amazing lined up. But not university. In September Ellie will be starting a Digital Marketing apprenticeship at award-winning customer service provider Sabio. With university fees trebling (and then trebling again) over the past 10 years it’s just as well that today’s fresh crop of 18-year-olds have
many more options. Traineeships, apprenticeships, degrees, graduate schemes - however you learn best there is an option and in pretty much any job you can imagine! Despite Brexit uncertainty, some industries are searching high and low to find new recruits. And they aren’t just interested in graduates. Smart companies are learning to be flexible so that they don’t miss out on future stars. And they need to be. The technology sector, for example, is creating more jobs every day and there are just not enough young technology students to fill them. With the effects of Brexit unknown and graduate numbers falling, employers and the Government are already taking steps to ensure this situation doesn’t become widespread in the UK.
In April, the Government took steps in the right direction by introducing the apprenticeship levy (a tax for the biggest organisations in England that creates a fund to pay for apprenticeship training). The aim is to grow apprenticeship starts to 3 million by 2020. Apprenticeships have changed dramatically in the last few years with every subject available from floristry and insurance broking to software development and paralegal services. And it’s appealing to lots of different young people. Some are choosing like me - to forge a career without a degree and without debt. It’s also an appealing option for businesses to get young talent before anyone else - especially in technology. Leading children’s charity, Barnardo’s, took on its first apprentice last year in its customer relationship management (CRM) and insight team, which supports its fundraising efforts. It relies on an excellent knowledge of CRM database Salesforce. Romano, 19, took on the role while doing a software development apprenticeship, having just finished school where he gained three A Levels. The role is challenging and intensive, involving a steep learning
14 | Lambeth Life
curve. Head of Insight & CRM, Symon Russell, says: “Salesforce is very much at the heart of how we manage the fundraising side of Barnardo’s so it is really important that my team provides strong support to its users in the fundraising team. Previously we would have looked for someone older with more experience for this type of role, but it has worked well and we are taking on three more apprentices this year.” It’s not just large organisations that benefit. Kano, a technology start-up in East London that sells build-yourown-computer kits, is also a firm fan of getting in talent early.
Recruiting school leavers Matthew Keegan, Head of Customer Care, says: “When a colleague suggested the apprentice scheme it seemed like a great way of bringing young talent straight from school into our team. Previously, I had been worried about recruiting school leavers as I felt it would be tough to help them transition to the workplace. I needn’t have worried though, as we were sent really high-quality candidates and have had lots of support”.
September - October 2017 Alex and Nathania both started with Kano in September 2016 aged 18, having recently completed their A Levels. Their roles include helping with all elements of the customer care team’s activities, supporting users of Kano’s products, programs, and services. Nathania says: “I’m really surprised by the number of new things I’ve learned during my apprenticeship. My advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship would be to really throw yourself into it. You’ll get out as much as you put in” Investing in the apprentice is really important on both sides to get the most out of it. Although an apprentice might need nurturing, they quickly give back a lot more than expected.
Cogora, a healthcare publisher, appointed two apprentices in September 2016. Craig Hughes, Senior Project Manager, says,
Cogora apprentice D’Shai says: “I
“Our on-boarding included two weeks initial training in addition to the training they have every week. It was a large initial investment, but we are really seeing the benefits. We expect the apprentices to turn up and work hard like everyone else at Cogora does. I’ve been impressed by them as young adults and the contributions they have made.”
weren’t academic, to now being a
With more and more stories like these surfacing daily it’s no wonder that the perception of apprenticeships is rapidly changing.
feel like the concept of an apprenticeship has evolved, from being perceived as something for people who gateway to entering the professional environment. It allows you to realise that the world is filled with opportunities for those with the determination to search.” If you want more information about Step Forward apprenticeships, including our next software development class starting in January, visit our website or send as an email. stepforward.uk.com rachel.taylor@the-challenge.org
Lambeth Life | 15
Events
Are You Ready For A Spectacular Show?
S
ummer is officially over, but London isn’t going to wait around until Winter for another round of festival fun. If you didn’t get enough of the summer events we have good news for you: many of London’s summer festivals are continuing up until the end of September and if you hurry up you can find tickets. Southbank is one of those places that just doesn’t want to say goodbye to the summer, and this year it plays host to Underbelly Festival for the ninth time. The Festival, which comprises of both Udderbelly Festival and London Wonderground, offers the best in live circus, comedy, cabaret, and family entertainment, right in the heart of the city. Would you like to watch one of the mesmerising, spectacular shows? Then maybe you should look out for tickets to the Parisian inspired ‘Black Cat Cabaret’. You will enjoy a merry band of high-kickingshowgirls, jaw-dropping acrobats, comic street singers, a fire-breathing siren and daredevil aerialists - all bound together with a belle époque sense of giddy abandonment. 22nd September 2017 at 21:30pm and is for ages 18 and over. Further information: www.underbellyfestival.com
Food and movie for your family... M
aybe the definition of the best weekend is a well spent time with the family, when we are chilled and appreciated what we have... We offer you this kind of family friendly Sunday plan, you could spend with your kids, your sibling, niece, or nephew... Streatham Free Film Festival presents Sing, animated musical comedy, family friendly fun. Furthermore, while you watch the movie foods and drinks will be offered in tables of four, arranged ‘cabaret style’. Attending this event is so easy; the only thing you should do is pre-purchasing your £5 bar voucher, you will receive it when you arrive and 20 | Lambeth Life
you could also use this voucher for your popcorn, soft drink deal for your kids... and how about the movie? Sing is an animated musical comedy, directed by Garth Jennings filmed last year. Starring are quite well-known artists such as Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, and Scarlett Johansson. It is a musical comedy movie about finding out your (sparkle!?) in a world of anthropomorphic animals. Kind and optimistic koala Buster Moon, has a grand theatre but it’s in danger of closing. Buster Moon thinks
that he his only chance to save the theatre is holding the world’s greatest singing competition. However, Buster was not only one who has a crisis in his life, contestants who also have their own problems; talented singer Rosita (Reese Witherspoon) is a mother of 25 pigs, gave up her dreams, Mike (Seth MacFarlane), cheater street musician, Ash (Scarlett Johansson) Punk-rocker, always criticised by her boyfriend for her rocking style, Meena (Tori Kelly) shy teenager elephant, has a great voice but she has stage fright because of her stringent granddad,
Johnny (Taron Egerton) is a gangster gorilla who wants to make a clean break because of his criminal family. You will have fun while you watch the anthropomorphic animals’ story. Besides, Stevie Wonder sings with Ariana Grande featuring, Faith, and memorable soundtrack of the movie. 24 September, doors open at 12 pm and the film start at 13:30 pm. Further information: www.freefilmfestivals.org
September - October 2017
Meet Fahrelnissa Zeid
One of the greatest female artist of the 20th century Born Fahrunissa Sakir, Zeid came from an art loving Ottoman family. However, successful female artists were not so common in Turkey at the time, and so she was instrumental in leading the way. Zeid started painting at the age of 14 and was the one of the first women to go to the Academy of Art in Istanbul in the 1920s, the early years of the modern Turkish Republic.
‘Triton Octopus’ - 1953
artist, combining eastern and westernstyles. Zeid increasingly synthesized her abstract European-style painting with Islamic, Byzantine, Arabic and Persian influences. Zeid not only painted on canvas she also experimented with painting on turkey and chicken bones which she later cast in polyester resin panels,strangely reminiscent of stainedglass windows. In the later years of her life she returned to figurative painting, creating stylised portraits of her friends and family. She also introduced many unaccustomed Arab women in Amman to abstract painting.
She was exposed to European painting traditions when she travelled to Europe andlater trained in the continent’s capital of culture, Paris. Zeid was involved in a male dominated avant-garde collective called‘D his month, London hosts a spe- group’ in Turkey,and by the 1950s cial guest known for her abstract had become a renowned and imporIf you would like to see some artwork paintings at the Tate Modern - Prin- tant figure in Turkish art. cess Fahrelnissa Zeid.Whether you After she got married to Prince Zeid from one of the greatest female artare familiar with her work or not, this Al-Hussein of Iraq she became a ists of the 20th century, Fahrelnissa exhibition is not to be missed. princess. Despite the lofty title, sher- Zeid’s exhibition will be waiting for you at Tate Modern Museum until Zeid’s story starts in 1900 in Istanbul. emained an experimental avant-garde 8th of October.
T
Classic Always In Fashion
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07947 321 614 Lambeth Life | 21
Local News
Waterloo Action Centre: Join The Community
M
any of us pass by countless old buildings in Lambeth everyday without stopping to think what is going on inside them. If you are new to the area, the Waterloo Action Centre (WAC) building on Baylis Road near Waterloo Millennium Green may very well be one of them. A beautiful late Victorian red brick building, its traditional appearance belies its vibrancy and dynamism as home to modern Waterloo, supporting the needs of its diverse community. The WAC building has a long history. Constructed in 1893, it was the North Lambeth Library until the early 1960s, having survived the blitz during World War II. The building remained empty for a decade, falling into a bad state. Then, in the mid70s, the old library was put back into its rightful place at the heart
annually by tenants’ associations and other local community groups meaning there is always strong outside involvement, with the Centre evolving to meet changing local needs.
After work activities: The WAC offers early evening exercise – classes in sword fencing,karate arts, rock n’ Roll, Tango, Zumba. For those who only recover their energy by Sunday evening, the London School of Samba is at the WAC from 6-9pm, with dance and drumming classes. Less energetic regular weekly activities include life drawing on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, Yoga on and Pilates on Fridays, and Waterloo Anxiety Readers a small book group for people, usually in their 20s and 30s, struggling with mental health difficulties.
of Waterloo, becoming a community centre to support the area at a time of rapid redevelopment.It also has national status having won The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest public award for the charity sector.
For after School activities:
The WAC has now been at the centre of Waterloo life for over forty years. Some charities get stuck in time, but 7 of the WAC’s trustees are elected
Historically, the WAC has not focused on children and teenagers except as part of families and community events.
22 | Lambeth Life
Aimed at children as well as adults, the Dilek Tapik School of Dance offers classes between 4.15pm and 7pm on Wednesdays.
Historically, the WAC has not focused on children and teenagers except as part of families and community events. This is because when the WAC was established,young people said they would prefer their own space and so the WAC helped them get an adventure playground and a barge off the Thames as a club house. When the Millennium Green was developed, children and youth provision were moved to the Living Space on Coral Street.
Weekly Day Time activities: The WAC include a lunchtime choir, movement and meditation, line dancing, gentle exercise, and a monthly Tea Dance. Tuesday afternoons have groups doing dressmaking/tailoring and repairs and knitting and crocheting, while the WAC Arts group paints. In addition to clothes and art, these groups also produce a lot of laughter! Mauritian Pensioners take time out from other activities to meet for an hour playing Lotto/ Bingo and chatting in their home language – other French speakers are welcome too. For the last 8 years there has been a free weekly day out for older people using their freedom passes. Usually its green spaces in the summer and galleries and museums in the winter. The WAC receives no statutory grants but some of the day time activity are free or at subsidised rates. All costs are kept as low as possible so the community is well served. The WAC also supports the largest volunteer run legal advice service in the UK. About 85 individuals/families get help each Thursday evening by lawyers who come after work. It
also helps people with benefit claims during the daytime, although there is a waiting system for this as the WAC can unfortunately no longer be funded by the Council to pay advice staff. Many other activities take place in the WAC, including 8 ethnic minority led church services. The Bangladeshi Community Group also has an office. A wide range of meetings are held in the WAC and space is also let for family parties. Open 7 days a week, the WAC has over 20,000 users a year with 62% coming from black and other ethnic minority backgrounds.
For additional information and timetable for classes go to: www. waterlooactioncentre.co.uk Call: 020 7261 1404. OR why not go there directly? WAC, 14 Baylis Road, Waterloo, London, SE1 7AA. A 10-minute film about WAC can be accessed from the website. Stay healthy, save the NHS money, meet other people by getting active at WAC. Volunteers are also needed e.g. helping on reception, and gardening. The sewing group on Tuesday afternoon is crowded with learners but needs more volunteers with dressmaking or tailoring skills.
September - October 2017
Local Attraction The Innovative Food Growing Community In The Heart of Clapham
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re you tired of the chaos of city life? Do you feel isolated from nature? How about if we said you can remain in the centre of London and spend relaxing time tending to vegetables? If you are keen to get your hands dirty in the garden, then Bandstand Beds-the innovative food growing community in the heart of Clapham - may very well be the ideal place for you. “Bandstand Beds”. Planting your own vegetables and growing fruit in the heart of busy Clapham. Maybe it was a romantic idea at the beginning. However, a group of nature lovers interested in gardening made it a reality in 2012, coming together to put forward the idea of having a community garden in Clapham Common. The manager of the Common, Viktor Chin-Kit, donated the beds and built the garden, giving the local community a green space to grow their vegetables and plants, allowing people to share gardening skills and spend time outside in the company of neighbours, friends and new acquaintances.
sociation reclaim an other green section of the park. Whether you live in Clapham or somewhere near, if you want to take a break from city life, you could visit Bandstand Beds to meet some fellow nature lovers. If you want to contribute towards the beautiful garden space, you can visit on Saturdays between 10.30am and 12.30pm to enjoy the surroundings and buy some fresh, organic vegetables.You could also join in with some of the activities, such as digging, planting seeds, pruning, weeding, or watering – whatever you like! Gloves and spades are provided.
Bandstand Beds started with 10 members in 2012. Since then, the community garden has attracted a great deal of interest from locals and membership has increased by more than 80 in just a couple of years. Lambeth Council has now agreed to let the as-
Activities are family-friendly, so if you have little ones you can enjoy the garden with them too. We suggest you do not miss Bandstand Beds’ seasonal feasts - the community garden will be hosting its Autumn Feast on 16th of September from midday until 4pm. Head over to the Common and sample some delicious food made from home-grown vegetables with guest chef Dean. Gardening activities, scarecrow-making and a raffle will follow. Not to be missed!
Discover Secret Lambeth
The tour is based in the most interesting places of the historic Borough of Lambeth and will help you discover its secrets. Lambeth lover Angela Morgan will take you to show hidden gems of the borough and each of the walks provides a bit of extra insight into the area.
Windmill Sails - Starting at the
re you a keen walker with a passion for delving into local history? Would you like to discover some secret places in your neighbourhood for the weekend? Lambeth Council offers to take you on 6 secret Lambeth walks. A single tour includes 6 secret routes and the best part is a guide is provided at no cost! Let’s have a quick look - without destroying the mystery, of course!
The 6 routes are:
place every Sunday during the sum-
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24 | Lambeth Life
Mutiny, Executions, and Hollywood -starting at Kennington Park near Oval Station. Bohemians, William Blake and Banksy – Starting on South Lambeth Road West Norwood Cemetery - Starting at the WNC gates
Further information: www.bandstandbeds.org.uk Address: Windmill Dr, London, SW4 9DE
© Bandstand Beds
Ritzy Van Gogh’s Walk – Starting on Hackford Road Do the Wright Road – Starting at Brixton Police Station The planned guided walks took mer, but do not worry if you missed out – just send an email and book your free guided tour now! For further information: Telephone: 020 7926 0525 Website: www.lambeth.gov.uk E-mail: walking@lambeth.gov.uk
September - October 2017
The History of Modern Warfare from World War I
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re you into history? If you are keen to learn about the history of modern warfare from World War I to the present day, you should visit one of five impressive Imperial War Museums (IWM) in England. Three of these are in London and Lambeth residents are fortunate enough to have one right on their doorstep. The Imperial War Museum, established in 1917, was itself affected by war. It was originally located in Crystal Palace on Sydenham Hill, and was opened to the public by the King in 1920. But Crystal Palace was not a permanent home for the IWM and in 1924 it moved to a space in the Imperial Institute in South Kensington, and then on to Bethlem Royal Hospital in Southwark in 1936. The museum’s collections were extended with the Second World War and the IWM redeveloped its Southwark building in 1960s. Other IWMs soon followed– in1976 the IWM Duxford in Cambridgeshire, in 1978 the Royal Navy Cruiser HMS Belfast and in 1984 the Cabinet War Rooms. The
most recent addition is the IWM North in Trafford, Greater Manchester,which opened in 2002. The IWM aims to “provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and wartime experience”. The museum has some permanent exhibitions with different topics from all over the world such as the Holocaust Exhibition, Secret War and First World War Galleries. In addition to these permanent exhibitions, you can find up to date exhibitions about the ongoing conflict in Syria and the operations of the British army in Helmand Province, Afghanistan - but do not forget they are only there for a limited time. So: hurry up and visit these excellent exhibitions while you can! Opening Times: Everyday between 10am and 6pm, including Bank Holidays Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ T: +44 (0)20 7416 5000
© IWM
Lambeth Palace: Your neighbour is an 800 year old palace!
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ambeth Palace has been the London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury for more than 800 years and is one of the last medieval buildings in London. It has the largest private garden in the South East of the city.
would encourage study!
We suggest you add Lambeth Palace to your touristy weekend. The Palace also holds so many unique events throughout the year, allowing you to see secret parts of it. The gardens are open on various occasions too - do Originally the Manor of Lambeth, not miss the open days, starting in the Palace has had many renovations September. since the 13th century, especially afFurther information: ter the damage of English Civil War www.archbishopofcanterbury.org and the Blitz. With much attention Address: Lambeth Palace Road, and care, Lambeth Palace has surLondon, SE1 7JU vived, with some of its grandest parts 020 7898 1200 still standing - the Guard Room, the Chapel, and Crypt all attract thousands of tourists each year, and Mortons’ Tower, built in 1480, is still used as the main entrance to the palace. Lambeth Palace Library, founded in 1610, should also not be forgotten – the impressive collections are waiting for you to freely use them. For university students, perhaps the ambience of the old medieval library
© Lambeth Palace Lambeth Life | 25
Local News
Lower Marsh Market
One of London’s oldest and best-loved markets decided to open one.It is good that this market led us to open our own restaurant.There are so many nice people, working here and coming to my stall for lunch.”
Dogers Venezuelan Food – Carla
I
t is obvious that most Londoners occasionally suffer from the downsides of hectic big city life, and sometimes we feel like we simplylive for the weekends – if we still have some energy left after the end of a busy week at work.Now that summer is over and most of us have used up our holidaytime, perhaps our attentions should turn closer to home, to the hidden delights of our own neighbourhoods. We have a suggestion for you: local district markets to give you that special nostalgic feeling. Head on down to Lower Marsh Market to enjoy delicious street food during the week and find unique handmade quality crafts on the weekend. A short walk from Waterloo station and the Old Vic Theatrewill take you to the Lower Marsh, named after the site of the ancient Lambeth Marshand now one of the hidden gems of central London. During the week,the market gives you an alternative for your lunch, with world cuisine from Asian to Africa food. On Saturdays, the flea market gives a platform for traders who have unique handmade products on sale. The good news is that the market is there all year round. 26 | Lambeth Life
-Food MarketAre you bored of going to the same supermarket to have meal deals for lunch? If you work in Waterloo or around Lower Marsh you should go and have a look at this local food market where you will find a wide range of foods from diverse cultures. The food market is open from 9am to 5pm, but we should warn you that delicious food is often snapped up by 3 pm, so you better hurry up.
“We have a warehouse based in Croydon. We also do catering for events, parties, and weddings. Six years ago, we heard about the market from the council. Westarted to come to the market from Monday to Friday to servedelicious South Indian Food.People are really nice. Our customers are mostly working in the offices around here.”
Burger Stop - Aldo
Let’s see what traders say...
Just A Bite Indian Food Ashwin
“We have been coming to Lower Marsh from Fulham for the past year. We change our menu according to the seasons and people’s demands. Customers always used to ask whether we have a restaurant, so we
“We started to come to Lower Marsh Market one year ago. At the beginning,we started with one stall, selling street food. People liked it and so we addedthe second stall sellingtraditionalVenezuelan food. People really like our food, and so now we are here from Monday to Friday.”
September - October 2017 are locals - they know me now, and during the afternoon lots of people come. Most of them work around here. Sometimes I make cupcakes for birthdays, celebrations, and weddings. Locals are always so supportive here.”
when they see my cameras.”
-Flea MarketWould you like to spend your Saturday afternoon treasure hunting? Lower Marsh Market is once again the right choice if you want something that beats the car boot sale. If you are interested in old records, vintage clothes, traditional African accessories and more, come to the Lower Marsh flea market on Saturday between 9an and 5pm.We have chosen some great stalls to show you.
Raffo & Ridgeway Cupcakes - Amanda
Johnny Skates Records Johnny “After I discovered the flea market I started to come here and trade.I do not have a shop - I just sell my records here and enjoy the market. I have been here over a year, bringing 70s records, albums, and new arrivals to the market. Sometimes people ask for a special, rare album and if I can find it I bring itin for them. It is good that renting a stall doesn’t cost too much. I started with one stall,
Paul’s DIY –Paul
“I have lived just down to road for nearly 10 years and I have been on this market for nearly five. I make the cupcakes myself and I supply them to the shops around Waterloo. I am here from Tuesday till Saturday. During the weekend my customers
“I am a war veteran from the Gulf War. Now I am retired and I cannot do physical jobs, so three months ago I started to go to car boot sales and collect old cameras.They are not working anymore so I make lights from them.Four weeks ago, I decided to come to this market and trade. You don’t usually see nice cameras like these - they areunique. You would not get them in IKEA. I travel here from Surrey on Saturdays. The people are great. Everybody has a big smile on their faces, especially
tographer and Silvano doesvintage collages. Silvano puts collage prints on t-shirts – each of them are unique and you will not find two t-shirts the same. We are happy here but our only concern is thatlocal people are increasingly being pushed away from Lambeth for rich people to
live here. A lot of shops are closing unfortunately…” (Ed: all the more reason to support these fantastic local stalls.)
Mariawax Traditional African Crafts – Maria “Most of my products are handmade, made with love - love from Mali. We sell African home decor, bags, accessories and jewellery, special items you would not see anywhere else. Every year I travel two or three times to Mali and other countries in Africa to source my products and bring them here. I started coming here three months ago and it has gone very well. My ‘misolo’ (African style head scarf) is especially popular. Lambeth is such a nice area.”
and now I have two. People still love records.”
Silchris 3D Print T-shirts - Silvano - Cristiana “We have lived in Elephant and Castle since 1993. In May, we finally decided to come to Lower Marsh Market. We knew that the market has been here for long time, so we said,‘let’s go and try it out’. We love the market now.I am a stock phoLambeth Life | 27
Restaurant Review
Westminster Kitchen
including Australia and New Zealand.
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John Whelan
estminster Kitchen grill house is the new kid on the block in the heart of Waterloo offering customers a diverse range of dining experiences that never fail to disappoint even the highest expectations. Close to the London Eye and the River Thames its location is just eight minutes’ walk from Parliament Square across Westminster Bridge. Not surprisingly Westminster Kitchen is popular with MPs and civil servants and those who work with them but also with families and people from Lambeth’s diverse communities and beyond. That includes tourists visiting the UK from the U.S., Europe, and the Asia Pacific 28 | Lambeth Life
Westminster Kitchen was the brainchild of dynamic restaurateur, politician, and entrepreneur Ibrahim Dogus, founder of the Centre for Turkey Studies, who already had two other restaurants in the same street when the new kid on the block opened in 2016 with a different food offer. The cuisine ranges from classic English including mouth-watering steaks and grills to Mediterranean salads and pasta dishes not forgetting an excellent homemade soup of the day. The restaurant has disabled access and welcomes wheelchair users as well as parents with push chairs. Service starts from 7 a.m. and continues until 11.30 p.m. Accordingly, it is popular with business men and women for breakfast meetings especially those who want an early start and some refreshment after navigating Waterloo Station or a place for an after-work meeting with colleagues.
Located opposite St Thomas’ Hospital and handy for anyone with a hospital appointment or visiting a patient, Westminster Kitchen prides itself on attentive but not overwhelming service. Its fresh wellcooked food is served with a smile by a polyglot staff and includes ever popular dishes such as fish and chips, crispy duck, burgers, and salads to name but a few. The food offer is matched by a well-chosen range of wines and the house beer Bira plus excellent coffee and tea
and soft drinks. Westminster Kitchen is easily accessible by bus as well as by Tube to Westminster Station or Waterloo. As an indication of its popularity with the whole community the restaurant is regularly patronised by women from the ethnic minority communities who feel relaxed enough to take their children and friends there. Westminster Kitchen, 3A/B Belvedere Road, SE1 7GP Tel 0207 928 1986 www.westminsterkitchen.com
Restaurant Review
Kennington Tandoori T
John Whelan
he Kennington Tandoori is a legend and at times a hotbed for politicians, both local and national, which beats the heat of anything that emerges from the modernised kitchens. Its location and quality of management are the keys to its success and well-earned reputation. It would be a mistake to regard the “KT” as it is affectionately known as just a meeting place for politicians whether in Parliament or on Lambeth Council. Cricket lovers flock there when the last ball has been bowled at the Oval during a test match or a county game of a summer evening or if rain stops play. The charismatic owner Dr Kowsar Hoque, who trained as a surgeon at UCH in London, is a philanthropist who hosts events for a medical charity each year and supports many local causes about which more later. He says he manages the restaurant in the evenings as an antidote to his traumatic day time job.
Cameron for a “last supper” at 10 Downing Street on his last day in office. He wasn’t the first prime minister to order in food from the KT and probably won’t be the last. Among the regulars at the KT are senior Parliamentarian Ken Clarke, former Chancellor Justice Secretary. who lives nearby and always sits at the same table, Anne Widdecombe usuIn the meantime, the KT which is ally with an entourage of young men, Michelin star rated offers fine mod- and in days gone by the late Charles ern Indian cuisine with the finest Kennedy who lived a few doors away. chefs recruited from around the Another regular diner is the MP for world. One recent customer says: “At last we have a Michelin rated restaurant in Kennington, fabulous food, and service. Came here for my uncle’s 70th+ birthday dinner and this is, hands down, the best Indian food I have EVER had. The food was impeccable. All the meat was cooked to perfection - so tender. The curries were delicious and perfectly spiced.” First the legend. The KT which has a thriving takeaway business was chosen by former prime minister David 30 | Lambeth Life
Croydon North Steve Reed who used to be Leader of Lambeth Council. However, in 2002 when the majority party lost control of Lambeth the two opposition parties secretly planned a joint administration at a dinner in the KT involving the two-party leaders and it was ever after known as the “Tandoori Alliance” – there was a lot of “orange” in the curry but to include the blue there had to be a cocktail after the meal. As for amenities, the KT has highly
efficient air conditioning and following a recent modernisation to the restaurant space has what can be booked for a private dining area. The KT is often busy especially in the evenings so it is wise to book. It is easily accessible by bus and is a 15-minute walk from Oval Tube Station. Kennington Tandoori 313 Kennington Road London SE11 4 QE Tel 0207 735 9247 www.kenningtontandoori.com
CALL, EMAIL OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW
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97-99 Isabella Street, SE1 8DD www.tasrestaurants.co.uk • ev@tasrestaurants.co.uk 020 7620 6191 • 020 7620 6192
PRE & POST THEATRE MENU Mercimek Köfte (V)
Lentil and fine bulgur wheat patties
Red Lentil Soup (V) Humus (V)
Pureed chickpeas with tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil dressing
Yoğurtlu Ispanak (V)
Spinach, yogurt, spring onion, garlic and olive oil
Kalamar
Deep fried squid, served with sour rose sauce
Peynirli Salata (V) Mixed salad with feta cheese
Ispanakla Patates (V)
Spinach, baby potatoes, fresh tomatoes and leek
Kalamar Tava
Deep fried squid served with sour rose sauce
Tavuk Köftesi
Grilled minced chicken patties marinated in garlic and herbs, served with bulgur wheat and salad
Kuzu Köftesi
Grilled minced lamb, onions and green pepper patties, seasoned with parsley and garlic Place select a dish from each section. Served with homemade bread.
£13.95 PP Ev- The Arches 4 minutes walk from Old Vic - 2 minutes walk from Young Vic 10 minutes walk from NT - 10 minutes walk from Tate Modern
THE WORLD’S FIRST BEER FOR KEBABS
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drinkaware.co.uk for more facts