Major Works

Phase one (the refurbishment of the Elgin Avenue front) is almost complete, including the repair of the link bridges. When phase one is complete, the front gardens will be replanted and the Garden Committee will consider whether to remove the grass areas and replace with shrubs. Grass has always struggled in this location.

It was agreed to install a gate to the basement area next to block 1 to improve security.

It was agreed to extend phase two (the Grantully Road front) to include both flanks of that block. SHW have drawn up a statement of works for phase two and have been asked to draw up a tender list. It was agreed to include DBR (the contractors for phase one) in the list. SHW will be invited to the AGM in May to explain what is planned in phase two including an improved method of organising communication between themselves, the contractor and the residents.

Meanwhile, we have given the go-ahead for the redecoration of the common parts in blocks 1 to 5. This is a normal service charge project and is not part of the major works.

Security

Following a break-in to one of the flats, it was agreed to install new locks on the entrance doors to each of the blocks. These will be compatible with the existing key fob entry system but need to be battery powered to ensure people can get in and out in the event of a power cut. It was agreed to buy rather than rent the new locks as this will prove cheaper in the long term.

Water mains

20 flats have now connected to the new mains water system which is running well. It was agreed to credit these with the £100 rebate promised from Ashworth Mansions Ltd funds.

Finance

We have moved £400K – the provision for future major works – to a high interest account at Nottingham Building Society.

The draft end of year accounts for the Company and the service charge have been issued to directors. The final versions will be circulated to flat owners by the end of March.

Central Heating

New water heaters have been installed. The old ones were kittling badly and at the end of their useful life. The installation went well but an, apparently unrelated, fault left a number of residents without hot water overnight which can only have been annoying. Kfh has been asked to investigate the problem to ensure it won’t happen again.

Individual flats

One ground floor flat had claimed on the insurance policy for water damage. Part of the damage was caused by defective drains and part by the owner’s shower. The insurance company is investigating.