Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath.

The Group considered a report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath that sought Member’s views regarding the opportunity to generate future income by permitting the use of the Queen’s Park Bandstand for Marriage and Civil Partnership ceremonies, subject to the approval of the LBB.

The Group were widely supportive of the proposals to introduce Marriage and Civil Ceremonies at the Bandstand. Members noted the success since the introduction of ceremonies at the Hill Garden and Pergola at Hampstead Heath. In addition, it was advocated that ceremonies should not be limited to 25 attendees; members suggested that 40-50 guests could be seated within the fenced area surrounding the Bandstand. The Superintendent added that the number of guests would be discussed with couples on a case by case basis. The trial period would also enable staff to gauge an appropriate maximum number of attendees in due course.

In response to members’ questions, the Park Manager advised that other activities available in the Park, such as Pitch and Putt and tennis, would continue whilst ceremonies took place and amplified music would not be permitted. In response to a further question from the Chairman, he added that a track-way for disabled guests to access the Bandstand would be installed on the day of each ceremony if necessary.

RESOLVED – That the proposal to apply for a Marriage Licence, subject to the approval of the LBB, to use the Queen’s Park Bandstand as a venue for weddings and civil ceremonies, presenting a new opportunity to generate future income, be noted and endorsed by the Queen’s Park Joint Consultative Group.