Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent of Epping Forest.

The Committee received an update from the Superintendent of Epping Forest

informing Members of activities which had taken place in and around the

Forest. Of particular note was the restoration of Open Riding on 7 May; falls in the number of reported fly tipping and rough sleeper incidents; the submission of the annual Basic Payment Scheme application; the close of the 2015/16 football season with 3,260 games played an increase of 12 and the Period for Representation meeting with the Environment Agency regarding the provisional high risk designation for three Large Raised Reservoirs at Wanstead Park.

In response to a query regarding the Psychoactive Substances Act, Members were informed that the Police had the right to act when finding an individual who appeared to be under the influence of drugs. Members noted that the locking of gated car parks may help tackle anti-social behaviour such as drug use in the forest. Currently 15 of the 52 car parks in the forest were locked at night, with plans to lock a further 3 over the next year.

Discussions ensued regarding two land registry issues which the Committee were informed about. The Superintendent informed Members that both issues may need to be heard at a tribunal. The Superintendent also informed the Committee that he was unable to provide a timescale for when this would be resolved.

Resolved – that the update be received.