NHPNA AGM

I have always had a particular soft spot for North Hyde Park Neighbourhood Association despite it being the only local institution to ever refuse me membership. But then we all know what to think about clubs that would have us as members. Its the second year running the AGM has been held in Wrangthorn Church on Hyde Park Corner. There's something mind focusing about meeting in the House of the Lord particularly is its November and the heating isn't working. We cantered through a packed agenda and were particularly grateful for the Tea. Although the boundary change significantly reduced the amount of Headingley Ward they cover the issues are cross cutting and they are also the back bone of the Leeds Girls High School Action Group and the LGHS site is in Headingley. My favourite bit of being a Councillor is these sort of public events. If anything saves us from tyranny or managerial ism its these sorts of grass roots residents led initiatives. I said a few words about the LGHS saga ( still no sign of planning applications ) and listened to a presentation from the University of Leeds community Engagement people. They got Brownie points for speaking to the Lions Den but IMHO it was the usual PR bilge without wanting to engage with any of the real problems. I lost interest in what they were saying and concentrated on the stained glass and dimly lit architecture of St Augustine's. I suppose its a professional hazard of meeting in such a beautiful building.