General Questions and Comments (2)
Created by CliveHave a quick question or a comment about Kingsway Village?
If you don’t wish to publish a complete article (post) about the subject but would like to get some information about future developments/facilities, would like to comment about Kingsway in general (and you can’t find a more suitable place), or you have a personal question or comment… please post it here. (If a more suitable spot exists I’ll move it).
Editors Note: General Questions and Comments: 2008-2011 are here
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January 10th, 2012 at 3:56 pm
Kingsway Developers Website
Does anyone else remember the Kingsway website back in 2006 (phase 1), when it gave an abundance of information including detailed maps of Phases 1,2,3 & 4, showing cycle paths; allotments sites, parks, tennis courts, playing fields, school sites, shops, pub, bus route, etc, etc?
The website also included contact details, telephone and email to contact QUVL to ask a question or make a complaint.
Why has the site been stripped of all useful information to the householders and future purchasers?
January 10th, 2012 at 7:54 pm
Hi Thatcham resident,
Yes I do. The website you refer to is still online (kingsway-village.co.uk) but – as you say – all useful information was removed some time ago.
To the best of my knowledge the website was commissioned by the QUVL using the services of a local marketing consultancy. When the housing market died down the marketing company lost the contract and the website became little more than a list of links to the various house builders, (presumably they are on commission)!
Fortunately I was able to salvage a couple of the original plan documents and QUVL gave me permission to update them and add them to this website.
You will find them – along with the up-to-date tel’ numbers, complaints procedure documents etc on my Developers Page.
January 11th, 2012 at 3:55 pm
Dog Walking Areas & Bad Press!
Hi there,
I am considering moving to Kingsway with my two teenage children and well behaved dogs.
Where are the best places for the dogs to have a good run around, or is there a nice walk away from the houses?
Also – in all honesty, what is Kingsway like now as a place to live? I don’t believe everything that I read in the papers but I am aware of Kingsway having a bit of a reputation – perhaps unfairly?
Thank you in advance for any help.
January 12th, 2012 at 11:57 am
Hi eloisecherry,
I don’t have a dog, so perhaps somebody else would be more suited to advise about ideal walks etc, although there are a lot of dog owners here and some good green spaces and walks in the vicinity (with more planned), so I’m sure you would find plenty of suitable spots to exercise your pooches.
As regards Kingsway’s reputation, it most certainly is unfair. The Editor in Chief of The Citizen has already admitted that the articles published about Kingsway were simply stories received from (nameless) members of the public and published without any attempt to verify their authenticity!
If you walk around the area and ask local people what they think, I’m sure you’ll get a completely different response; (although you would probably get some remarks about the state of the road surfaces and the lack of parking and local facilities etc)!
January 18th, 2012 at 9:51 am
Hi eloisecherry,
Really depends on the street as far as I see it.
My friend lives in a different area to me (I live near the school) and she gets no bother and never has (apart from the odd drunk/gang of kids walking past her house in the summer). However I have had my car vandalised as has my friend/neighbour, my husband had his motobike stolen (and dumped in a ditch up the street), my friend was mugged outside my garden gate, my neighbour had his back door glass kicked in (attempted robbery), someone tried to enter my home while I was sat in the front room… So either it’s a sign of the times, or I just live in a really bad area of Kingsway.
That and the dead rats found down the alleyway, plus the groups of kids that walk around the estate in the summer would make me of the opinion that Kingsway deserves it’s reputation and I wouldn’t move here if someone paid me; in fact we are moving away!
January 18th, 2012 at 4:24 pm
I don’t have a dog either so can’t help you on that one sorry.
As far as Kingsway itself is concerned, I have lived here for 2 and a half years, we have had no trouble at all, it has gained a reputation somewhat unfairly as Clive has noted, but in all honesty, Kingsway is no worse than most places around the UK, I am not from Gloucester, so have lived in a number of areas, around the UK and can hand on heart say, this is one of the nicest parts of the country I have lived in and it’s a good area with good schools, nice pubs and good links to the M5. Good luck with your decision.
January 25th, 2012 at 6:41 pm
Does anyone have any recommendations for a local carpet cleaning company? I’ve tried hiring one of the Rug Doctor machines but the carpet still looks fairly grubby, so I’m looking for someone who does Steam Cleaning or similar.
Thanks
Paul
January 26th, 2012 at 10:31 am
Hiya Paul,
I have used “Clean-able” in the past, he is really good and a nice chap, his details are as follows:
Andy Vicary
01452 540834
07721 537005
Hope this helps.
Lou
January 26th, 2012 at 10:34 am
Carrying on the theme of “does anyone know”…
Can anyone recommend a carpenter or a person who is able to repair a bannister rail? Ours has come apart at the top of the stairs and it’s repair is not covered under the NHBC unless repairs cost over £1200 (funny old thing)! It will soon become a health and safety issue for my kids if I leave it any longer
Also I need a recommendation for a person who can come and look at the boiler in the house as it is making some very strange noises!
Thanks in advance
Lou
January 26th, 2012 at 10:57 am
Morning All!
We can clearly see how this Community Based Site is working for the better as it helps residents in the manner directly above…
Lou Lou, depends how you want to benefit from this need – do you want the quickest, cheapest or preferred recommended route. I bet your now going to say All Three!
I would suggest a possible route – have you ever spoken with the works supervisor for your area of the development? They would normally allow you to have a quick chat with their on-site “chippies” who may do the job needed for cash!
Regards the boiler, as this is a GAS concern. I would recommend British Gas without any doubt. We have their HomeCare 400 package which we pay for monthly. The service given is really good and covers all your boiler services, parts & labour, pipework, plumbing & electrical – if the boiler can’t be repaired, they will replace it without added costs!
January 26th, 2012 at 1:22 pm
Hi Steve,
Thanks for the kind words (as always)
Hi lou lou,
I agree with Steve, the idea of speaking to some of the local builders is a very good one; it’s quite likely you’ll get a local chippy who want to earn an extra bob or two at lunchtime or after work one day!
I too am a fan of British Gas and their repair/homecare schemes. But I have also used Glevum Heating many times in the past; they are quick, low-cost and – in my experience – very professional (and there’s also one of their engineers living in Kingsway, I see the van parked around here quite often)! Their tel’ no is: 01452 387066
January 26th, 2012 at 4:06 pm
Brilliant thanks for the help on that, I will get my hubby to give BG a call and sort it!
With regards to asking one of the chippies on site, do I just approach some of the builders and get them to direct me to one of the chippies or is there are certain way I have to approach this? It’s not a big repair, the join has come away and needs a couple of heavy duty screws and some glue (I think)! I have to say I am fairly cross with NHCB people who basically said it’s not their problem, the house is probably one of the oldest in the village, but still not that old. They had the same answer when we called to enquire about getting someone to come and repair our external garden wall as the top row of bricks have blown and now look a mess with pieces falling off! Again it’s up to us to repair
January 26th, 2012 at 5:14 pm
lou lou, thanks for that, I’ll give him a call.
Clive, would it be beneficial for there to be a recommended services page to collate this kind of information in one place?
January 26th, 2012 at 5:23 pm
Hi Paul,
There is a Local Contacts & Services page and also a Local Business page, but I can’t add details of commercial organisations unless they are willing to pay (a portion of advertising revenue is donated to the Residents Association and the balance covers site admin’ costs).
January 29th, 2012 at 3:07 pm
Stolen Bike
A teenagers BMX bike was stolen from our garden in Aldergrove around midnight on Sat 28th Jan’.
It is white with ‘Mafia Bikes’ on the frame, and it has very distinctive purple wheel rims.
If anyone knows where it is or who may have taken it, please let me know through this site.
It has been reported stolen to The Police.
Thank You.
January 31st, 2012 at 12:52 pm
Hi Villagers,
We are moving to Kingsway in a few months. Just bought a house. We do not know area very much and what it’s like living there. How are the schools?
Cannot wait to move to our new home. Hopefully I can make some friends
Thanks
February 2nd, 2012 at 5:32 pm
CandG,
Sorry to hear about that
Hi newvillagers,
Kingsway Primary School is fairly new, well-equipped and improving each year. There are several other choices within a short distance and there will shortly be a second primary school in Kingsway.
There are two local senior schools. Severn Vale (Quedgeley) is well-equipped and not too bad; I can’t comment on the other (Beaufort School – Tuffley) as I have no idea.
Thanks for joining in, and good luck with your move
Regards,
Clive
February 3rd, 2012 at 9:57 pm
Land behind Tesco
Does anyone know what is going to be on the land behind the Tesco Express shop?
Thanks
February 9th, 2012 at 4:48 pm
Business Networking Evening
Hi All,
Someone mentioned to me last week that there is a Kingsway Business Networking Group.
They said the next meeting would be at The Barn Owl.
Does anyone have any details for this event?
Many Thanks,
Matt
February 15th, 2012 at 11:00 am
Wasteland opposite Tesco Express
Does anyone know if anything is going to be done with the horrid bit of land that is sort of opposite the Tesco Express (across the road where the temporary Badhams Pharmacy was last year) and in front of the flats?
It’s covered in building rubble and rubbish and floods in the middle.
It seems a real shame when the rest of that area is starting to look good with The Pub’ and things that this is being left such a tip.
February 16th, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Local Squash Courts
Hi,
Other than the ones at GL1 and Riverside, are there any other squash courts local to Kingsway? The ones I have mentioned don’t seem to have very good availability.
I walked past the new tennis courts the other day. A metal fence has been used instead of a net, which means I am going to spend a lot of time chasing balls around all over the place as metal isn’t very forgiving. Could we not be trusted with a net?
February 18th, 2012 at 10:44 am
Garage Issue
Hi Villagers,
We wanted to move to Kingsway, and were offered the house we liked – subject to contract.
We were waiting for the go-ahead, when we got a letter from our solicitor this morning, saying that the garage does not belong to the house! (The reason is “the contract”… The garage contract is under “The Coach House”).
Just wondering if we want to try to buy another house, is it all the same leasehold or not?
We really want to buy a house in Kingsway; please advise.
Thanks.
February 22nd, 2012 at 1:55 pm
Matt,
I’ve not heard (of the group or the event)!
Maybe you should try the Barn Owl (01452 720523 – Gary Millard).
newvillagers,
I hadn’t heard of this before, but following your post I had a call from a lady in Cheltenham whose son (it might have been daughter – lol) had exactly the same problem
It sounds like the existing owners need to get together and approach a Solicitor to explore the possibility of creating a new contract!
Anyway, that problem is specific to a very small number of houses and doesn’t apply to the rest of Kingsway, so – if you like the area, let’s hope you can find something else which is suitable.
Good Luck,
Clive
February 22nd, 2012 at 1:56 pm
SSTAR, Charlongo, Jack,
Sorry, but I can’t help any of you!
I have asked Barry to drop in and answer you when he has the chance, as I’m sure he’ll know.
Clive
February 24th, 2012 at 8:53 am
Hi Folks,
In terms of the “waste land” beside Tesco, there will be a Community Centre (Between Tesco and the School). Where Badhams Pharmacy Portacabin was there “should” be a doctors surgery, but I have been trying to push the PCT for this for ages, and beside Tesco itself I believe that will become a “place of worship” depending on current negotiations that are taking place.
In terms of squash courts, I will take that on and see if something could be achieved as part of the sports pavillion, could be ideal timing but I will let you know! Who else thinks they would use a squash court if it was provided? (I would, I know that)!
Cheers
Barry
February 24th, 2012 at 8:55 am
Kingsway Business Network – Have not heard of this having been set up already, however having just set up my own business and understanding just how many small and medium businesses are run out of Kingsway, a few people have said that having such a network would be really benificial. I will put a new post up about it to guage interest!
February 24th, 2012 at 9:15 am
Looking for a part-time job
Hi,
My name is Luke Dyer and I am 18 years old.
I have recently moved into the area and I am now looking for some part-time work.
I am currently at Gloucestershire College studying Level 2 Motor Mechanics, but as I don’t go to college on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, I need some work on these days. I can also do Saturdays.
If anyone can help me, please e-mail me on lukeydyer @ hotmail.com
Thank You,
Luke Dyer
February 24th, 2012 at 2:12 pm
Barry,
I would definitely use a squash court on a regular basis. Where is the sports pavilion going be situated, when is it due to open and who would be responsible for running and maintaining it? Presumably most of the facilities will be outside, but I would guess a receptionist would be needed for indoor facilities like a squash court? I play cricket and it’s hard work maintaining the wicket and outfield, not to mention the cost of all the machinery that’s required. I’m guessing a couple of badminton courts is pushing my luck a bit too far?
Do you have any information regarding the tennis courts? I know things have to be robust, but they are going to be unusable with a metal net in my opinion.
February 27th, 2012 at 12:32 pm
The Sports area will be beside the orchard, in essence over the road from where Tesco will be. Currently it will have a Rugby Pitch, Football Pitch, Cricket Pitch, Tennis Courts and a Trim Trail ’round the perimeter. It will have a Sports Pavillion as part of that and I could easily see a Squash Court as a great addition to it. Currently the whole lot would be managed by the Parish Council (as the Waterwells facility is at the moment).
The Tennis Courts that are already up, are (I believe) designed for general use and low maintenance. Given where they are, I think the metal net in that location is a good thing. However I would hope the ones in the main sports area are of the proper “net” variety as they will be more secure and less chance of vandalism.
I’m not overly familiar with badminton really, what’s the difference in court layout (apart from the net being really high)? Could it be combined with a Tennis Court as a multi-use if you changed the net (with different coloured lines)?
Cheers,
Barry
February 27th, 2012 at 7:33 pm
Restrictions for extending property in Kingsway
Hi,
Does anyone know anything about restrictions on extending your property in Kingsway? I have a feeling there are restrictive covenants in our deeds, but need to get hold of them to check. Is anyone else aware of this?
I don’t think I’ve seen any extensions on the estate and wonder if this is why!
Ruth
February 28th, 2012 at 3:24 pm
RSaunders,
Please do not take this as Gospel for your specific house, but there are a few properties in Kingsway that have had modifying work done, and others that are going through the process at the moment. Many properties have got Conservatories added on, and others that are building up or putting an extra room on. So it is possible, however you would need to check the deeds to your own property to see your own particular circumstances.
Cheers
Barry
February 29th, 2012 at 11:46 am
Morning…
I have viewed many extensions on the backs of houses on the development – if you want to place a conservatory on the back of your current patio exit doors (without removing those current doors) and keeping it ceiling height of the ground floor, and extend out less than four metres – then you don’t need planning permission (need to confirm with Planning Office first)!
However, if you step outside of those limitations, then you need planning permission, and the standard fee for an application is: £150.00.
The person within the Planning Office who can help you via email if preferred is…
Joann.Meneaud @ gloucester.gov.uk
The form for application can be printed-off via the council’s website.
Hope this helps!
Steve
February 29th, 2012 at 1:37 pm
Dog Walking
Hi I’m Georgia,
I am a willing, young person looking for a little extra. So if you have a dog that’s paws need stretching I am ready to help.
I am very reliable, honest, keen and trustworthy.
I have a dog at the moment who weighs about 32kg, so I am able to deal with large dogs and little fellows too.
Please contact my mum on: 01452 698574 or debraredding @ hotmail.com.
March 3rd, 2012 at 7:08 pm
Peacock/Peahen
Hello All,
Just a quick message to hear if anyone has seen one of my peahens?
I lost one yesterday and found a pile of feathers between the moat and the park!
Any help would be appreciated.
Regards,
Alastair
March 7th, 2012 at 10:46 am
Hi Alastair,
Sorry nobody seems to have heard anything but – from your description of things it doesn’t sound too good for the peahen
Good Luck, I do hope she comes home!
Regards,
Clive
March 7th, 2012 at 10:46 am
Drain covers outside houses
Hi All,
I have noticed the drain covers on some houses’ driveways have come off and wonder who do I need to speak to about it.
Are The Council responsible, or is the owner of the house responsible for the repair?
Thanks
March 15th, 2012 at 9:19 am
Morning All…
I hope we are not the only one’s frustrated by the repeated “cold callers” recently bombarding the streets within the development.
We have endured several over the past two weeks, and yesterday was the final straw… mid-afternoon, whilst I was in my office – I noted from our CCTV screen via split cameras, several youths in blue aprons enter the street as a group. The youths began repeated ringing/knocking of residents homes (including our own) remarking with humour toward the notice on our door (provided by Neighbourhood Watch) referring to unwanted “cold callers” not to call. I ignored their repeated efforts, and they continued door-to-door through the rest of the street (even those who equally have the same sign as ourselves relating to “cold callers”) and on reaching the last house – they simply started again in the same manner with those from whom they didn’t obtain a response the first time around!
Later that evening, and after 1940hrs, the very same group (same youth who repeatedly attempted a response from ourselves and remarked on the sign on our door relating to those who carrying-out similar actions as themselves) knocked at our door yet again. I noted him on-screen, and frustratingly answered the door. I viewed his ID (which he jokingly pushed toward my face remarking unwelcome comments against my eyesight. I instantly pointed at the sign on the door, and advised him that his previous comments relating to the sign had been recorded visually & audibly – he angrily waved his hands toward my face and quickly moved-off.
The charity he was attempting to gain monies for was UNICEF. I indicated he would be reported for repeated disturbance, and at a late hour of the evening. We accept charities are having a difficult time – equally so for the rest of society in general. We already give to charity on a regular basis without this constant unwelcome disturbance.
March 15th, 2012 at 3:46 pm
chanjcs,
I’m not sure but I think it depends what the drain is covering.
You might find the answer here. If not you could check your deeds or ask your developers or the local council.
blastu2,
I always thought those “no cold callers” signs were largely pointless (most companys train their representatives to ignore them) but that sounds like a particularly annoying visitor.
Perhaps you should send the video clip to UNICEF and see what they have to say about it!
March 15th, 2012 at 6:26 pm
Evening Clive,
You know my direction towards addressing this already!
March 26th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
Park Litter
I took my son to the park (near Kingsway School) this afternoon; what an absolute mess!
The bin in the park was overflowing with litter and there was litter strewn all over the field.
I took some pictures which I will be forwarding on to the appropriate people.
April 14th, 2012 at 7:54 pm
Pre-schools in Kingsway?
Hi,
I am new to Kingsway village and I’m now seeking a pre school place for my two year old. Thing is I have no idea where the nearest pre schools are in the village.
I am in Wainfleet Avenue and I am hoping to find the shortest possible route on foot to a pre school.
Any recommendations from local families would be good.
Thank you.
April 14th, 2012 at 8:20 pm
Does anyone know what “Affordable Housing” actually is?
I have heard that it is rented housing for workers in the public sector – nurses, teachers etc, but I have also heard it is the modern term for Social Housing for families in receipt of state benefits. I have noticed from the development plans in Kingsway that the Affordable Housing varies in size from the more modest type terraced properties to the larger type detached. Who qualifies to live in these properties It would be good to know exactly who our neighbours are!
April 15th, 2012 at 5:01 pm
Hi LJ40,
Pre-Schools:
I don’t have a complete list (I know there are several) but you could try:
BAR BAR Children’s Pre-School & Nursery. Unit 83, Kingsway Business Park, Tel’ 07776-401483.
Or: Little Owls (Quedgeley, Fieldcourt Primary Pre-School) 0783 398 7439.
Affordable Housing:
From the Department for Communities and Local Government’s website (here):
So… nothing to do with any one sector of the community and no way to know who lives in them (same as for privately owned or rented housing)!
Welcome to Kingsway
Regards,
Clive
May 16th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Parking on Brize Avenue…
…is now getting silly and irresponsible. The area near the New Barretts Sales Office has parking on the bend and the houses on the same side as the sales office are now also parking in the road, which effectively blocks the complete road. This needs addressing SOON.
May 17th, 2012 at 8:32 pm
Kingsway is just one big Social and Affordable Housing Estate with alot of rented house and few houses brought by people on morgages