Working with Small Businesses

The Arch Climbing Wall

 Excellent visit to see the recently extended The Arch Climbing Wall, a very successful sports and fitness centre in Bermondsey Street SE1.  Some of the walls they offer climbers are unique in London, and added to this is the challenge that the hand and footholds are changed from week to week.  The problem for them is the impact of the construction of the Shard and the knock on changes Network Rail are proposing to make at London Bridge. There is a fear that the changes will be used as an excuse to clear out small businesses like this and make it difficult for them to return after any refurbishment which may be necessary.  The Arch does not seem to be a priority for the landlord and the lack of information is making it very difficult for The Arch to plan for the future.  Dynamic businesses like this are a vital part of the vibrancy and rich diversity of our world city and I promise to do what I can to support them if the problems are not resolved quickly and to their satisfaction.

Working with Local Charities

Tideway Sailability

 Fascinating trip to Greenland Dock SE16 to see the work of Tideway Sailability, a charity that is focused on providing access to a sports activity where people with disabilities participate with, and on equal terms to those without a disability.  They are currently fighting a planning application to convert much of the Dock into a marina for luxury yachts for the time during and around the Olympics.  The effect will be devastating on the charity as well as create problems for the local residents.  Not only would Tideway lose out on the peak season for them, their long term funding may be in jeopardy because they are unable to demonstrate they have complete access to the Dock where they have chosen to operate.  I pledge to write in opposition to the planning application. 

Working with Road Safety

School Crossing Patrols – Saved for Now

A community protest has forced the Labour council to reverse their decision to axe 10 ‘lollipop’ people across Southwark.  Working with my fellow Conservative Councillor Toby Eckersley we were delighted to help in victory.  We invited Labour Councillors responsible to meet the protestors during the morning rush and see the problem.  Toby then identified the money to pay for the saving of all 10 ‘lollipop’ people threatened with the axe; his proposal was unanimously approved by all councillors.

The funding only lasts for one year and the schools affected, parents and students are now working on the ‘lollipop for life’ campaign to secure the long term future.

Contacting Michael Mitchell:

If you have any questions for Michael about these or other issues please email him at, [email protected]