Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent.

Richard Gentry (Constabulary and Queen's Park Manager) provided an overview of the main issues set out in the report before Members relative to the Public Sex Environment Outreach Work undertaken in 2012, the second year of such work.

The Committee was advised that the overriding objective of the outreach work was to ensure that use of the Heath as a Public Sex Environment did not adversely affect others' enjoyment, or the natural aspect of, the Heath.  It was noted that the Heath was regarded internationally and locally as a safe area to visit and whilst visitors to West Heath had declined over the past ten years, littering, including sexual detritus, remained a key issue.  Consequently, litter pick events had proven successful not only to reduce litter but also the enable stakeholders to engage with those using the Heath and profile sexual health messages.  

It was noted that the Heath incorporated a number of different public sex environments and therefore different issues such as public decency.  Consequently, all of the issues had to be carefully monitored and, going forward, a partnership approach in 2013 would ensure that an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour on the Heath was minimised.

RESOLVED - That the Committee notes the partnership work that has been carried out by the Hampstead Heath Constabulary, Terence Higgins Trust and other agencies, in promoting the safe and responsible use of Hampstead Heath during 2012.