This is the seven part of the story concerning the noise nuisance. The problem started on the 20th October 2010 and since then many things have changed.
Please read the latest updates below and the previous stories at the end of this entry.
TIMELINE OF EVENTS AND UPDATES
On 18-09-2011 at 20:37, a resident sent the following e-mail:
To: richard.michael@camden.gov.uk
Cc: john.stow@camden.gov.uk ; tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; roger.robinson@camden.gov.uk
Subject: Boiler Noise is Back
Dear Mr Michael,
This evening I have arrived back to my flat after one week break. I am alarmed to discover that the noise in the flat coming from the boiler room has returned to a level that it was at before February/March this year. (It has been acceptable since this time up until today). Also I have learnt that there has been problems with the supply of hot water/heating to the estate during the week – please see picture of note attached.
Please can you give me an update on what has happened this week – and when can I expect the noise from the boiler room to return to an acceptable level again.
Yours sincerely
On 19-09-2011 at 15:40, Mr Richard Michael sent us the following e-mail:
Dear Resident,
The loss of hot water on the estate last week was due to the changeover of the hot water risers from the old pipework to the new.
Letters should have been delivered to all residents explaining the works so it may have been delivered while you were away.
I did speak to the Apollo engineer’s supervisor yesterday as there was a loss of service over the weekend. His engineer attended yesterday and called me back to inform me that he had re-instated the boilers in mid afternoon.
I have been to site today and will be making several recommendations to their repairs management.
Apologies for the noise problem but I found that all of the acoustic doors in the boiler house had been left open. These are now closed so any noise should now be contained. There is a slight high pitched noise from one of the gas boosters which I will get an order raised for further investigation.
Regards
Richard Michael
Mechanical Contract Manager
Telephone: 0207 974 2048
On 20-09-2011 at 06:28, a resident sent the following e-mail:
Dear Mr Michael,
Unfortunately, the noise has got worse. One of the pumps or something else is pulsating and it was especially disturbing at 02:00am this morning. The noise is audible in most areas and especially in the rooms. When I came from work yesterday at 18:30 I could even hear the noise on the communal stairs.
1) Could someone check the pumps and especially pump 2?
2) Have the contractors installed anti vibration “brackets”/equipment to the new water risers?
3) Have the heating works finish?
4) Is pump 1 and 2 active? Were there any changes to the pumps setup (i.e. deactivate some and activate others)?
5) When will you have the results for the gas booster investigation?
I would appreciate a quick response because I woke up again at 02:00am and then at 03:00am because of the noise.
Yours sincerely
On 21 September 2011 at 04:45 a resident sent the following e-mail:
Dear Mr Michael,
It is 04:00 am and the noise is loud and pulsating. We cannot sleep and this affects our well being.
One of your pumps (?) does not work properly and we are suffering for one more time.
I am looking forward for your reply.
Yours sincerely
On 21 September 2011 at 14:25 we received the following e-mail:
From: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
Date: 21 September 2011 14:09:26 GMT+01:00
Cc: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 3
Dear Resident
I have been back to the boiler house today to check the plant and there is no excessive noise.
I have checked all pumps (including heating zone 2) and can find no noise coming from any of them. I have checked to see if there is any vibration travelling along pipework from the pumps but since the anti vibration matting and bellows were installed some months ago this is not happening.
The noise near to the boiler house door and louvres was minimal even with the door open. I have replaced the gas booster pump acoustic shrouds that had been taken off this morning. These were taken off when Apollo engineers checked the gas boosters earlier today and were due to go back later today.
The specialist contractor from Nu Way is booked in for Monday to carry out bearing replacements on the gas boosters. This is not affecting the service at present.
There is a heating primary pump motor being taken out for overhaul today as there was a problem two weeks ago with it tripping out on excessive load.
This is not affecting service and will be re-instated as a standby as soon as it is overhauled. The primary pump is not linked at all with any distribution pipework around the estate and so would not have caused any noise distribution along pipes. There have been no changes to any pump settings made since the invertor drives were commissioned many months ago.
The final connections onto the new hot water distribution pipework have been complete and there are only minor works such as insulation of pipework and clearing site to complete the capital works.
Tony Bowcutt has investigated other areas, such as the old tank room door, that have previously caused noise but could not find any noises. He and the Apollo engineers will continue to monitor the plant and ensure that there is minimal noise emanating from the boiler house.
There is a possibility that now the weather is colder there are more people opening up their TRV’s and one is vibrating. If you experience the noise from one particular area of the flat it may be helpful to Tony in tracing the source of any noise.
There are water tank replacement works taking place above our property which I believe are due to start soon. Letters have been delivered regarding this and you should only notice noise from those works during the normal working day.
Regards
Richard Michael
Mechanical Contract Manager
Telephone: 0207 974 2048
On 21 September 2011 at 15:10 a resident sent the following e-mail:
Dear Richard Michael,
Thank you for your reply and for visiting the boiler house again today.
The noise is the same as the original problem that I have complained about, first in 2002 and again in October 2010.
On each occasion it has eventually been quietened only when there has been an alteration/repair/turning off of the pump 2.
The problem that I complain about is a pulsating noise and has nothing to do with water tanks, TRVs etc.
When I complain about the problem it always takes a long time before Camden eventually gets round to turning off the pump that is causing the noise. So that this does not happen again, please could you arrange for Mr. Bowcut to come to my flat early in the morning to hear the noise for himself and do the same test as before (i.e. turning off the pumps one at a time) In this way we can eliminate some noise sources quickly and accurately.
Yours sincerely
On 22 September 2011 at 14:12 we wrote the following e-mail:
Sent: 22 September 2011 14:12
To: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
Cc: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); TonyBowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 7
Dear Mr. Michael,
In your last e-mail you mentioned that the motor from the primary pump has been removed in order to be repaired. I assume that another motor has been activated/replaced the faulty primary pump motor. This might be the cause of the noise.
During the last couple of weeks the Camden Council has also installed a new water tank for the cold water close to my flat. The installers also must have changed some settings there because the cold water pressure is uncomfortably high (in my flat). I assume that there is a pump there as well which is either faulty or with the wrong settings because of the recent installation and changes (high pressure). That could also be a possible cause of the noise.
Could we arrange for a meeting to check those pumps by running a simply test (i.e. switch off suspected pumps for a few seconds while I check the noise level inside the flat)?
Finally, could you please confirm the exact dates (Summer – Winter) that the central heating is ON? My understanding is that central heating is on from October of each year. Please confirm.
Yours sincerely
On 22 September 2011 at 14:28 we received the following e-mail:
From: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
Cc: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , TonyBowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 7
Dear Resident
Tony Bowcut has attended again today and could witness no excessive noises around the boiler house.
He will be contacting you to arrange a morning appointment for early next week to carry out the individual pump isolation in the boiler house.
The cold water storage cisterns that are being replaced are for the down service to your flat only. The pressure will only be the head between the rooftop cistern and the outlet (tap). As you are on the top floor it would only be approx 0.5 -1 bar. The mains water is supplied directly from Thames Water at their pressure settings (usually around 3 bar at ground level) and is not boosted by any pumps on Camden ’s property.
The primary pumps are alternated on a weekly basis through the Trend controller. The pump that is on line is not making any noticeable noise and is not connected to distribution pipework as it only pumps water through the plate heat exchanger within the boiler house.
The heating scale for your property is B2 this means that you have 52 week heating with a night setback. The heating would be off during hot weather as it is controlled through a compensator that reduces flow temperature in line with outside air temperature.
Regards
Richard Michael
Mechanical Contract Manager
Telephone: 0207 974 2048
On 23 September 2011 at 11:44 we wrote the following e-mail:
To: TonyBowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Cc: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Boiler Noise is Back 8
Dear Mr Bowcut,
Would Monday 26th or Tuesday 27th morning (around 06:00am) any good for you?
Please let me know as soon as possible because the noise is disturbing and a big nuisance for all of us in the flat.
Yours sincerely
On 23 September 2011 at 12:00 Tony Bowcut wrote:
Dear Resident,
Monday the 26th at 6.00am is fine, see you then.
Regards Tony
Tony Bowcut
Project Manager
Apollo Property Services Group
Unit 3 Centric Close
off Oval Road
Camden
London
NW1 7EP
T: 020 7428 8840
F: 0207 485 1149
E: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
On 26 September 2011 at 06:00am:
Today, Mr Tony Bowcut, Mr John Stow and another contractor went to the resident’s flat and heard the noise. When Mr bowcut switch off primary pump 1 the noise stopped.
Further actions will be taken to eliminate the noise.
On 26 September 2011 at 12:19 we wrote:
To: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Cc: john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 9
Dear Mr Bowcut,
Would it be possible to send me by e-mail the results/findings of our today’s meeting/investigation and most importanly the actions that you or the Camden Council will take in order to fix the noise problem?
Thanks
On 15 October 2011 at 01:23am we wrote:
To: john.stow@camden.gov.uk ; tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Cc: richard.michael@camden.gov.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; ‘Robinson, Roger (Councillor)’
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 10
Dear Mr Stow and Mr Bowcut,
The noise from the primary pump which you fixed approx 10 days ago is audible and disturbing again. Unfortunately, we will have to suffer even more sleepless nights until someone do something about it. Could you please check the primary pumps and let me know about the actions that you will take to resolve the noise nuisance?
Yours sincerely
On 17 October 2011 at 04:05am we wrote:
To: john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Cc: richard.michael@camden.gov.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 11
Dear Mr Stow,
It is 04:00am and one of your equipment is trying to start making a lot of noise. The noise is coming from the pipes.
I also checked the noise that is coming from the primary pump which is now pulsating and sounds similar to an old car engine that tries to start.
Please do something about it because we are all awake again. Another sleepless night and we have to work in a few hours.
Yours sincerely
On 17 October 2011 at 09:05am Mr Richard Michael wrote:
To: john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Cc: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk ; John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 11
Dear Resident,
I have visited the boiler house this morning and checked the plant.
The primary heating pump that is the duty pump at the moment is No 2 which was overhauled a few weeks ago. I could not hear any excessive noise from it.
The three boilers were in hand which meant that they had been firing more than necessary over the weekend.
I have put them back in auto so they will only fire when required. Apollo will be providing a quotation for the required works to install anti vibration mountings and bellows to the two primary heating pumps today.
Regards
Richard Michael
Mechanical Contract Manager
Telephone: 0207 974 2048
On 17 October 2011 at 09:08am Cllr Roger Robinson wrote:
For the attention of Pat O’Neill
Dear Pat
Please can this boiler noise at Curnock estate be settled once and for all as it has a long history and it is very disturbing for all at Goldthorpe et al…..surely someone can resolve this noise from the boiler and pipes?
I am sure you will be able to sort it out
Please advise
Best wishes
Roger Robinson Cllr
On 17 October 2011 at 09:09am Cllr Roger Robinson wrote:
Dear Mr Michael,
Then where does that noise at 4 am come from? I am sure it wasn’t a dream…….
Can you perhaps chase Apollo for that quotation for the installation of anti vibration mountings etc?
Please advise
Roger Robinson Cllr
St Pancras and Somers Town Ward
On 17 October 2011 at 09:37am we wrote:
To: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 12
Dear Mr Michael,
The noise is coming from the primary pumps because when Mr Bowcut switched of the primary pump one on the 26th September 2011 at 06:00am in front of M Stow and another engineer, the noise had stopped. Everybody agreed on that.
Mr Bowcut told us that one of those pumps is very old (six years or older) and it still has its original painting. Both Mr Bowcut and Mr Stow were hoping that when the other primary pump was activated there would be some load balancing between the pumps which will reduce the noise.
The last noise started on Friday at 04:00am when all the pipes started to make a noise. After that we had the loud pulsating noise from primary pumps.
Today we woke up from pipe noise as well as a noise from a machinery that was trying to start. It was like an old lorry engine trying unsuccessfully to start. After a few minutes the pipe noise stopped and the pulsating noise continued.
Hope the above clarifies the situation. If you want, we can run the same test as on the 26th September 2011 in order to make sure that the primary pumps are the source of the problem. Please let me know if you require access to my property and when.
Yours sincerely
On 17 October 2011 at 10:13am Mr Pat O’Neil wrote:
To: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk ; john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Cc: richard.michael@camden.gov.uk ; tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk ; curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 11
Dear Cllr Robinson
We have initiated an in-depth review of the issues at Curnock St and will take all possible steps to ensure that the installation is performing satisfactorily
I agree that there have been a series issues and a number of service failures and my objective would be to ensure we have an installation that is fit for purpose going into the winter months
Pat O’Neill
Head of Service Delivery
Telephone: 020 7974 3264
On 17 October 2011 at 11:41am Cllr Roger Robinson wrote:
I hope this leads to progress in this matter……
I will pursue this.
Regards
Roger Robinson Cllr
On 17 October 2011 at 14:32 Mr Richard Michael wrote:
From: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
To: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 17 October 2011 at 14:32
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 11
Dear Cllr Robinson
The work order for the installation of anti vibration pads and pipe clips has been issued to Apollo.
With regards to the noise today I can only report on what I found on my visit as I was not present at 04.00.
Regards
Richard Michael
Mechanical Contract Manager
Telephone: 0207 974 2048
On 17 October 2011 at 14:32 Curnock TRA wrote:
From: CurnockStreet TRA [ curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk ]
Sent: 17 October 2011 14:12
To: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk ; Peter.Brayshaw@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); Samata.Khatoon@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; Julian.Fulbrook@camden.gov.uk (Councillor)
Subject: Heating and Hot Water
The TRA is fast losing patience with working with Camden over the on-going problems. We shall discussing further action at a committee meeting tonight. Problems with noise in the radiator pipes is happening in Ravenscar in the early hours (3-5am) of the morning. Aso residents continue to experience fluctuation in the hot water temperature. This can vary from near-enough cold to too hot to put your hand under. It is not unusual for a resident to have to run the hot tap for up to 20 minutes befor hot water is delivered.
We are concerned that not all reports to repairs are being logged particularly when more than one resident reports a problem.
On 26 September we sent Pat O’Neill dates when the TRA could meet with officers but have not yet had a response.
We have asked for re-assurance that the problems being experienced by many residents are being taken seriously by Camden officers. It is disgraceful that this has been allowed to go on for so long.
Susan
On 17 October 2011 at 17:16 Mr John Wheatman (Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements) wrote:
From: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk (Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements)
Sent: 17 October 2011 17:16
To: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk (Councillor)
Cc: Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk ; Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk ; Peter.Brayshaw@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); Samata.Khatoon@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); Julian.Fulbrook@camden.gov.uk (Councillor); curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk ; john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Heating and Hot Water
Dear Cllr Robinson
We are continuing to follow up on the issues here and in summary this covers the works undertaken over the past 7 days
• Tuesday (11-10-2011) – Independent commissioning engineer on site to determine flow rates, flow temps and return temps.
• Wednesday (12-10-2011) – Contractor inspection to ensure system is maintaining service
• Thursday (13-10-2011) – Combustion engineer and installing contractor on site to determine reason for slow make up on calorifiers, tests carried out to identify potential solutions
• Call centre were advised Thursday (13-10-2011) and for subsequent days that works are being undertaken however no loss of service or noticeable effect is expected.
• Friday (14-10-2011) – Follow on from Thursday, tube bundles being removed to examine if there are any problems.
• Bundle from first calorifier removed and de-scaled, refitted and rate of temperature rise greatly improved (Temperature was raised from 20C to 56C in 16 minutes)
• Saturday (15-10-2011) – Second calorifier bundle removed, de-scaled and refitted – initial improvement of temperature make up
• Temperature monitoring ongoing
• Remaining bundles are planned to be removed, de-scaled and refitted, following the initial tranche of monitoring
• Monday (17-10-2011) – Anti vibration mountings ordered and installation of the anti vibration pads and pipe clips has been placed
We will endeavour to update you on a regular basis to keep everyone appraised of our findings.
Regards
john
John Wheatman
Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements
Telephone: 020 7974 8639
On 18th October 2011 at 02:39 we wrote:
To: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk, davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 13
Dear Mr Michael,
Thank you for your e-mails yesterday concerning the noise nuisance problem.
The noise is still loud and in some areas the noise is very disturbing. It is early in the morning (18-10-2011 at 02:27am) and since we cannot sleep due to the noise, I would like to ask you some important questions:
1) When will the new anti vibration pads and pipe clips be installed?
2) A couple of days after my meeting with Mr Bowcut on the 26th September 2011, something had been done and the noise was eliminated. What was that?
3) Which of the two primary pumps was active between the 18th September and 26th September 2011?
4) Which of the two primary pumps was active between the 28th – 29th September and Thursday 13th October 2011?
5) The primary pump 2 was recently overhauled. What about primary pump 1?
6) Which primary pump is “… still with its original painting and be over 6 years old”?
7) Are the two pumps working in a load balancing configuration or only one is active at any one time?
8) Do you still use every primary pump for two weeks at the time before you switch to the other one?
I am looking forward for your reply and the quick elimination of the boiler noise in order for us to be able to sleep.
Noise Diary will be updated and maintained in the following link:
http://www.curnockestate.com/?q=node/434 (updating in progress)
Yours sincerely
On 19th October 2011 at 03:46 we wrote:
To: Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk
Date: 19 October 2011 at 03:47
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 14
Dear Mr Michael,
It is 03:46am. Is there any news concerning my last e-mail?
Yours sincerely
On 19th October 2011 at 09:19am Mr John Wheatman wrote:
From: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
To: Resident
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk
Date: 19 October 2011 at 09:19
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 14
Dear Resident,
I am writing with regard to your 03:46 email earlier today, and to respond on behalf of the M and E team, which I manage. You emailed Richard Michael yesterday with a long list of questions, whilst we do our utmost to respond straight away to residents we are not always able to do so within the preferred time frame that you or other residents require.
Richard is an efficient, reliable and knowledgeable member of the team and is, as you can hopefully appreciate extremely busy. I would therefore like to suggest that you direct your emails to me. I can then answer them with relevance to each issue you have.
We are all working to resolve the day to day issues we have borough wide and take into account your concerns, which we are dealing with. As I build up the information required in response to your list of questions I will contact you with succinct and factual answers.
I do assure you that we take the concerns of all our residents seriously and I will personally respond to you.
With Regards
John Wheatman
Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements
Telephone: 020 7974 8639
On 21st October 2011 at 05:32am we wrote:
To: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 15
Dear Mr O’Neil,
It is 04:30am and for one more time we are awake and tired because of the noise.
In your last visit to my flat (January 2010) with Mr Stow, Mr Michael and Mr Bowcut, you promised a few things.
It is over a year now since the latest noise started (20-10-2010) and 8 years of suffering since the original noise. Since October 2010, myself as well as other residents could not sleep for more than 135 days out of the 365 because of the noise. My health has suffered as well as my professional career. My anxiety attacks are back because of the latest noise.
I hope you appreciate that in the last year alone I was very patient as a resident with the all of the following issues:
– 135 sleepless nights and days since October 2010,
– 28 days without hot water,
– 3 days without cold water,
– Scaffolding wrongly placed outside my flat creating a huge security risk because your contractors could not bother to do their jobs properly,
– Calls in your repairs team which have never been registered,
– Employees in the repairs team who could not find the reference which they gave a few hours earlier,
– And many other issues.
I hope you do something to resolve the current noise nuisance which is getting worse and I hope this time the problem is fixed for a long period of time and not for just a few days.
I am looking forward for your reply with information of all the actions that you will take to resolve the current unacceptable situation.
Yours sincerely
PS Latest noise diary: http://www.curnockestate.com/?q=node/434
On 21st October 2011 at 06:53am Mr Pat O’Neil wrote:
From: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 15
Dear Resident,
I am aware of your ongoing concerns in relation to this matter and apologise that you are still experiencing a problem
The matter is however being actively dealt by our M&E team and I assure you that a significant amount of resource is being applied to try and resolve it . We will continue to make every effort to do so
I have noted the ongoing correspondence over the past weeks and Mr Wheatman has assured you that he will keep you advised of progress
Kind Regards
Pat O’Neill
Head of Service Delivery
Telephone: 020 7974 3264
On 24th October 2011 at 09:25am we wrote:
To: Wheatman, John
Cc: Tony Bowcut; David Brown; Robinson, Roger (Councillor); Stow, John; Michael, Richard; Dilley, Stuart; Fox, Martin; O’Neill, Pat
Subject: Re: Boiler Noise is Back 17
Dear Mr Wheatman,
Please have in mind that since last week the noise is higher. I suppose the central heating is on now and that adds to the overall noise.
Please confirm the date the central heating was switched on when you reply to my questions from my email dated 18th October 2011.
Yours sincerely
On 25th October 2011 at 01:02am we wrote:
Sent: 25 October 2011 01:02
To: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 18
Dear Mr O’Neil,
TIME: 01:01AM – In your email dated 21 st October 2011 you stated: “…Mr Wheatman has assured you that he will keep you advised of progress”. Obviously Mr Wheatman has not “kept me advised of progress” as he promised and I cannot understand the reasons for the huge delay. All of the questions are simple/straightforward and Mr Stow as well as Mr Bowcut are able to help Mr Wheatman with the answers.
Therefore I will have to ask again: Is there any news concerning my email that I sent one week ago?
Yours sincerely
On 25th October 2011 at 07:54am Mr Pat O’Neil wrote:
From: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
To:
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Date: 25 October 2011 at 07:54
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 18
Dear Resident,
I apologise that you have not received an update as quickly as you would have liked but can assure you that we are making every effort to progress the matter and to get meaningful information to you
Mr Wheatman has been actively chasing up the information he needs.
I will in the meanwhile ask him to give you an update today on what actions we are taking
Pat O’Neill
Head of Service Delivery
Telephone: 020 7974 3264
On 25th October 2011 at 08:53am Cllr Roger Robinson wrote:
From: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk
To: Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk
Date: 25 October 2011 at 08:53
Subject: FW: Boiler Noise is Back 18
Dear Stuart
Can you kindly investigate this to ensure The Resident gets the response to the concerns expressed in his email dated 18 th October- see below……? It is not fair on him not to receive answers when the noise has caused stress to him and other neighbours at Goldthorpe.
Please advise me and The Resident.
Many thanks
Roger Robinson Cllr
On 25th October 2011 at 10:10am Mr John Wheatman wrote:
From: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 18
Dear Resident,
As per Mr O’Neill’s email earlier today, I apologise for not providing, what you feel, is a quick response.
I am aware that you have indeed sent me 6 emails since the 18 th October and I have responded, initially with clarity to refer your concerns to me.
What I have been doing is making enquiries to the various parties and meeting with them to obtain a full and comprehensive response to your questions, my view was to obtain all the information you require and then respond with a detailed and comprehensive assessment of the information gathered. I did feel that this was a more efficient approach to your questions, however if you would prefer me to respond more frequently then I am more than happy to do so.
With regard to point 1), the anti vibration pads are due to be fitted at 07:00hrs tomorrow, 26 th October
As the other information is obtained I will send it through to you and the enclosed directly.
Regards
John Wheatman
Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements
Telephone: 020 7974 8639
On 25th October 2011 at 15:24 Mr John Wheatman wrote:
From: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
To:
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 18
Dear Resident,
Further to my previous email today and that of Mr O’Neill we have concluded this part of our investigation into the information you require and have the following responses, in red, tied to your original questions.
Please refer below
1) When will the new anti vibration pads and pipe clips be installed?
ANSWER: These works are planned for the 26 th October, we anticipate having these completed on the same day. (as per my previous email)
2) A couple of days after my meeting with Mr Bowcut on the 26 th September 2011, something had been done and the noise was eliminated. What was that?
ANSWER: Between the 21 ST – 28 TH September 2011 pump 2 had been removed and overhauled. This pump was installed on the 28 th September this ties in with the observation above.
3) Which of the two primary pumps was active between the 18 th September and 26 th September 2011?
ANSWER: Please refer to point 7 below
4) Which of the two primary pumps was active between the 28 th – 29 th September and Thursday 13 th October 2011?
ANSWER: Please refer to point 7 below
5) The primary pump 2 was recently overhauled. What about primary pump 1?
ANSWER: We have not overhauled pump 1
6) Which primary pump is “… still with its original painting and be over 6 years old”?
ANSWER: During the visit on the 26 th September 2011 Mr Bowcut and Mr Stow had a conversation about pumps. During this conversation Mr Bowcut referred to Pump 1 as being in original green paintwork and being over 6 years old.
7) Are the two pumps working in a load balancing configuration or only one is active at any one time?
ANSWER: This system is designed for one pump to operate at a time. The pumps are set up on a trend basis, the parameters have been set and that these rotate every 7 or 14 days.
8) Do you still use every primary pump for two weeks at the time before you switch to the other one?
ANSWER: Please refer to point 7
John Wheatman
Interim Team Leader M&E Repairs and Improvements
Telephone: 020 7974 8639
On 26th October 2011 at 09:29 we wrote:
To: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 20
Dear Mr Wheatman,
Thank you for your e-mail.
My understanding from your e-mail is that pump 1 was active on the following days:
– 21st to 28th September 2011
– 13th to 25th October 2011
While pump 2 was active on the following days:
– 28th September to 12th October 2011
– 25th October until now.
Could you please confirm the above?
If the above is true then pump 1 is the main source of the noise nuisance in my property. Mr Bowcut’s test on the 26th September 2001 also confirmed the same thing.
What are the Camden Council’s plans regarding pump 1? Will you overhaul that pump (1) before it is activated again or will I have to have the noise again in two weeks time?
Please have in mind that the noise was reduced last night. I assume that was because pump 2 is active since yesterday.
I am looking forward for your answers and I hope the today’s installation of the anti-vibration material will eliminate the noise nuisance in Goldthorpe.
Yours sincerely
On 27th October 2011 at 06:39 we wrote:
To: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 21
Dear Mr Wheatman,
Further to my email yesterday, I would like to add that there is no improvement in the noise levels since the works started. The noise is still disturbing and loud. This morning at 05:00am got worse.
1) When will the installation of the anti-vibration materials finish?
2) When did you switch on the communal heating on the Curnock Estate?
A quick answer to the above questions as well as the questions on my previous email (see below) would be really appreciated.
Yours sincerely
On 28th October 2011 at 09:18am we wrote:
To: Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Cc: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk
Rexha, Valdrin
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 24 – Deterioration of Residents Health
Dear Mr O’Neil,
The noise nuisance is got much worse the last couple of days after the “improvements(?)/installation of the antivibration material” (if the works have been completed!). The current level of noise is much higher and more disturbing than the 26th September 2011 when your collegues visited my property. Unfortunately, the noise is now louder inside the bedrooms.
The auto settings for the three boilers that Mr Michael has set before he left for his holidays made things worse.
Finally Mr Wheatman’s updates are few and vague. I still do not have a clear answer to my original email dated 18th October 2011 concerning to which pumps where active at the specific dates and if the works have finished. I have also requested some information in my my emails dated 26-27th October 2011 but I haven’t received any reply so far.
At the moment I would appreciate a quick and accurate update about what actions are you taking concerning the noise because my health has again deteriorated due to the 40-50 sleepless noisy nights. I will need to see my GP again in order to be able to continue a normal life until you decide to do something about the noise which started last September 2011 (original noise started October 2010).
I am looking forward for your quick reply.
Yours sincerely
On 28th October 2011 at 09:38am Pat O’Neil wrote:
From: “O’Neill, Pat” <Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk> Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , Valdrin.Rexha@Camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 24 – Deterioration of Residents Health
Dear Resident,
Thank you for your e ma i l and earlier correspondence of 1.43 a.m, and 3.30 a.m.
I can assure you that Mr Wheatman and his team are making every effort to deal with the problem .Although I am chartered in Building Surveying , Project Management , Construction and Dispute Resolution , I am not a building services specialist . It would not therefore be appropria t e for me to make detailed comment on the technical issues under consideration .
I will ask Mr Wheatman to respond to you as soon as possible
Pat O’Neill
Head of Service Delivery
Telephone: 020 7974 3264
On 28th October 2011 at 12:02 Cllr Roger Robinson wrote:
From: Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk
To: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk , curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk , Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk , john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Boiler Noise is Back 23 – 03:29am
This is getting ridiculous……being kept awake at 3.29 am is not on so please can this be rectified without any further delay.
Please advise
Roger Robinson Cllr
On 28th October 2011 at 14:42 Mr John Wheatman wrote:
From: John.Wheatman@camden.gov.uk
Cc: tonybowcut@theapollogroup.co.uk, curnocktra@yahoo.co.uk, Richard.Michael@camden.gov.uk , davidbrown@theapollogroup.co.uk, john.stow@camden.gov.uk , Roger.Robinson@camden.gov.uk , Stuart.Dilley@camden.gov.uk , Martin.Fox@camden.gov.uk , Valdrin.Rexha@Camden.gov.uk , Pat.O’Neill@camden.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Boiler Noise is Back 24 – Deterioration of Residents Health
Dear Resident,
As per Mr O’Neills response and your emails today at 09:18, 03:30 & 01:43.
I can assure you that this issue is being thoroughly investigated, however due to the very nature of this intricate system it is not always possible to make adjustments and alterations on a daily basis. In terms of response I believe that both Mr O’Neill and I have responded this week to your questions, albeit not on a daily basis.
In terms of the system being switched on this was week commencing 3rd October.
Following our visit to site on Wednesday 26th October to put anti vibration Tico pads under the pumps. We were unable to complete the works that day due to unforeseen circumstances, with a particular item of equipment. We have, however processed this and will be returning to site on Wednesday 2nd November to complete the works above, due, as I said to the intricacy of the system this will take place over 2 days Wednesday and Thursday. We can confirm that there will be no loss of service whilst these works are completed.
Regards
John Wheatman
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