Agenda item

The Operational Services Manager introduced the Review of Sustainable Planting, noting that he had received favourable comments from members of the public to date and that he hoped the Committee would similarly agree that the project had been a success.

In response to a question from Colin Gregory, who stated his support for the project, the Superintendent replied that the evergreen oaks would be trimmed during the winter, but that the geometric pattern envisaged in the project would likely not become apparent for at least five years.

Richard Sumray similarly welcomed the project, noting in particular the addition of the Stumpery.

In response to comments from Helen Payne and Colin Gregory the Superintendent agreed that the sustainable planting represented ongoing educational value and that there was potential for a weekend tour in 2014 and tuition during Autumn 2013. Furthermore, after a suggestion by Susan Nettleton, he agreed that a leaflet could be made available.

In response to a question from Michael Hammerson the Superintendent agreed that the Stumpery would be a unique deadwood habitat that would be worth monitoring to gauge the species that it attracted. He noted that the idea for a Stumpery had arisen after a Staff Visit to Highgrove and that the former Head Gardener there had agreed to come and help install the Golders Hill Park Stumpery.