Agenda item

The Superintendent to be heard.

The Superintendent was heard relative to the following matters:

Landscaping works at the entrance to the Heath

Simon Lee referred to the landscaping works that were underway at the entrance to the Heath and the substantive changes that these works represented in respect of softening quite a harsh municipal entrance and enhancing the Heath's impact on the area. 

Lido works

Members were advised about the significant refurbishment works that would take place in the future one the longer term objectives of the works had been clarified.

East Heath Car Park

With reference to the East Heath Car Park which was currently shut whilst improvement works were taking place, Simon Lee explained that whilst some inconvenience was being caused as a result of the closure the works would be welcome as a result of enhanced aesthetics and improved parking facilities.  

In response to a query, Simon Lee confirmed that the car park would be formally reopened after Easter.  It was commented that the softening off on the East Side of the Heath had had a positive effect and it was suggested that, if possible, hedging around the entire car park should be pursued in order to bring the Heath closer to the road.

Some concern was raised regarding the poor condition of the grass and the paths which, in a large number of areas across the Heath, had widened.  The Committee acknowledged that the exceptionally wet weather had had a significant impact on the condition of the Heath in some areas and that it would take some time for those areas to recover.  As temporary fencing had been erected in some areas, it was felt that fencing in other areas as a responsive measure, on a short or longer term basis, should be used.  Whilst noting that municipalisation of the area should be avoided, the Superintendent acknowledged that a hollistic report outlining a strategic approach to dealing with such issues in the future should be considered at a future meeting of the Committee.

Gas Leaks

With regards to the closure of the path next to the Men's Pond as a result of a gas leak, the Committee noted that the gas leak had now been fully rectified.  However, the issue of perishing pipes and seals and consequently, future gas leaks in areas across the Heath remained a significant issue.  Whilst further excavation work might have to be undertaken, the situation would continue to be closely monitored.

National Grid works

The Superintendent commented on the unfavourable condition of the site at the weekend following the completion of works and explained that a high-level dialogue was now underway with National Grid to ensure that there was a proper reinstatement of the area as soon as the ground was in a sufficient condition to allow for grass planting and seeding.  It was hoped that matters would be resolved without unnecessary delay.

South East Cross-Country Championships

Following the deferral of the South East Cross-Country Championships as a result of exceptionally poor weather, it was noted that some concern and objections had been raised by the athletics fraternity and some residents.  However, the large scale event had gone well and no long term damage had been caused to the Heath.