Issue - meetings

Report of the Director of Open Spaces.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Open Spaces concerning the significant impact Covid-19 has had on the 2020 Hampstead Heath Events Programme and setting out the events currently scheduled for 2021, taking account of possible further impacts which could arise as a result of Covid-19.

Members were advised that only two events took place in 2020 as planned. The South of England Cross-Country Championships on 25 January 2020 was well attended with record numbers of participants in the youth event. Zippos Circus on 10-15 September 2020 was impacted heavily by the Government restrictions and ticket sales were very low.

It was hoped more events would be able to go ahead in 2021. Plans regarding the March National Cross Country Championships were struggling and the London Games and Park Run would like be impacted. Negotiations were ongoing concerning the day change for the Showman’s Guild and Affordable Art Fair (AAF). Members hoped these events could go ahead safely.

RESOLVED – That Members:

·         Provide feedback on the principle of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain extending the traditional Easter Fair as set out in paragraph 23;

·         Provide feedback on the principle of adding a second event after the Affordable Art Fair in April/May 2021;

·         Provide feedback on the proposed 2021 Events Programme (appendix 1).

Report of the Director of Open Spaces.

Members received a report of the Director of Open Spaces detailing the success and learning from the 2019 Hampstead Heath Events Programme and setting out the proposed 2020 Events Programme.

Members were advised that it had been a busy and successful 2019 for events with thanks given to the Officer Events Group for their assistance. Members congratulated the Events Team for their hard work and the successful implementation of the new Events Policy.

A Member (Highgate Society) noted previous discussions regarding the potential for a heritage/history day similar to the Highgate Wood Heritage Day. it was added that the annual conker event could be expanded to incorporate this idea. Officers confirmed that there had historically been a Heritage Day at the Heath and that such an event would require considerable work and planning. Members were invited to follow up with contacts and ideas for a Heritage Day.  

A Member (Mansfield Conservation Area Advisory Committee & Neighbourhood Association Committee) felt there was a missed cultural opportunity for a literary event looking at the huge amounts of literature past and present (not just Keats) with a connection to the Heath. This could include appearances and readings from local writers. The Superintendent noted that there was a Keats 200 programme which included live actors, walks, etc, but agreed to talk to Keats House regarding a ticketed fundraiser. A Member agreed to follow up with the Ladies Pond about assisting. The Deputy Chair noted that Queen’s Park hosted an annual literary event which was coordinated by external, commercial organisers.    

A Member (Hampstead Rugby Club) suggested expanding “This Girl Can” to bring in walking groups.

In response to a concern raised regarding the popularity of large events and carrying capacity of the Heath (Hampstead Conservation Area Advisory Committee), Members were advised that the Events Policy and