We now have the formal application placed with Thames Water and they have a 3 week turnaround in order to survey and quote for the foul sewer connection. As soon as I have this I will know the level of shortfall in the current budget.

Works are progressing slowly with the building. I am having to take extreme care with the available budget and working closely with Glendale and the contractor to ensure we get best value. The timetable has slipped to end August/early September, however this does not factor in the sewer connection.

We have been keeping Iris and Erica updated at Grow Mayow and are doing all we can not to inconvenience them too much during the build period. We have been working with them leading up to the Sydenham Arts Festival 2 weeks when there are numerous activity events taking place in the garden. An additional portaloo is being provided for their use during this time.

On a positive note I have received 40 pre- expressions of interest in the café space. Some inevitably will fall by the way side however the response is encouraging. It is still my intention to formally invite expressions of interest, via ads in local press, once the works are completed, or almost completed. I am also thinking of holding an "open-day" for prospective bidders as the offer will require some upfront investment to fit out the café ready for use. By holding an open day this will ensure bidders have a clear idea of the level of investment that may be required.

I will further update you once I have the results of the Thames Water survey and quote.

With regards to the bowls green we have not received any requests for play by casual or other bowls teams. Other clubs in the borough are apparently frantically looking for new members so we may have to consider another use for the facility. I suggest I attend your autumn meeting at which we can discuss possible options open to us.

Kind regards and thank you all for your patience