Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent of Epping Forest.

The Committee received an update from the Superintendent. Of particular note was the extremely hot weather and lack of rainfall which has affected the Forest leading to falling lake and pond levels and the forest fire reaching a damaging burn of approximately 60 acres at Wanstead Flats; further rises in fly tipping and continued associated enforcement action and a significant rise in Oak

Processionary Moth nests identified through survey work.

A Member enquired about the addition of speed restrictions at Lower Forest to deal with the large number of Deer Vehicle Collisions.  The Superintendent confirmed that while this was a matter for the Highways authority following the success of the previous Forest transport Strategy, which increased speed restriction on 22 miles of roads, the next FTS will seek to widen speed restrictions around Epping.  The Superintendent also undertook to provide a Committee of a summary report in January of agreed actions with the Emergency Services following the major fire incident at Wanstead Flats.

A Member requested a review of the pumping of potable water from the aquifer to supply the Wanstead cascade.  The Superintendent indicated that pumping is licensed for a limited period to 2022 when the matter will be reconsidered.  Officers assured Members seeking assurances that given the number of proposals being considered for highway dedication of Epping Town Green at Lindsey Street that the matter would be returned to Committee for approval.

Assurances were sought by a Members on the response to the infrequent escapes of cattle over the grazing system.  The Superintendent confirmed that all barrierless fencing areas are reinforced by roadside fencing and cattle grids alongside the major A Roads.  A Member also queried the publication of cautions made by the Superintendent and it was agreed that guidance would be sought from the City Solicitor.

Members sought clarification on representation regarding Rough Sleepers on the City Corporation Homelessness and Rough Sleepers Sub-Committee and Officer Working Group.  CC Murphy was a Member of the Sub Committee. The Superintendent confirmed that the Head Keeper was represented on the Officer Working Group for the Square Mile and worked closely with the Forest four Local Authorities.

A Member sought assurances that the additional costs and budget shortfalls were being properly addressed.  The Superintendent confirmed that lease rent reviews and some serendipity around license payments would manage this year’s shortfall, the following year would be more challenging.  The Chairman added that he was also pursuing central funding for costs around the fires; Oak Processionary Moth and fly-tipping.

Resolved – that the update be received.