Agenda item

Joint Report of the Remembrancer and Director of Open Spaces.

Members noted that the report outlined officer discussions which have taken place concerning possible modifications to the legislation governing the Corporation’s Open Spaces. The aims of the changes would be to clarify the management powers available to the Corporation, to increase opportunities to receive revenue for the benefit of the Open Spaces, and to strengthen enforcement powers against wrongdoers. If Members agree that such changes should be further considered, it is proposed that the views of local interest groups be canvassed. It is anticipated that more detailed proposals would then be drawn up for evaluation by Members with a view to the promotion of a City of London Bill (if appropriate) in the autumn of 2015.

Members informed Officers that the current document lacked detail and would need to be strengthened before any modifications could ne agreed. Members noted that they were being asked to agree a consultation at this stage, and any modifications to legislation would need to be agreed by the Grand Committee.

Resolved: That Officers be instructed to test the views of local interest groups on possible modifications to the legislation, as described in this Report.