Agenda and minutes

Apologies were received from Barbara Newman.

The Chairman thanked previous Members Ann Pembroke and Dennis Cotgrove who had not been returned in the 2017 City Elections.

There were no items.

To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 27 October 2016.

The minutes of the meeting held on 27 October 2016 were approved.

Report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath.

Members received a report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath which provided an update on progress, performance and future plans for Hampstead Heath. 

During the discussion, the following points were highlighted and discussed:

Whilst events and private hires were increasing, there had been some decline in ‘walk-in’ sales.  It was noted that additional marketing capacity would be beneficial, even if part time.  Members noted that the Department of Open Spaces had a new Marketing Officer, who had some capacity, and the Principal Curator had submitted a funding bid.

The restructure of the former Culture, Heritage and Libraries Department was working well and Keats House was very pleased with the geographical arrangements.  Members were pleased at the visibility of the Hampsead Heath Constabulary, who had been assisting  duty managers at Keats House.  Whilst welcoming visits from Open Spaces staff, Members asked if they could be given notice and asked if staff could wear name badges. 

The Superintendent was working with the City Surveyor’s Department to raise the profile of building and maintenance and had seen some improved prioritisation for Keats House.  Furthermore, the Heath had a new Facilities Manager, who had been on site regularly with contractors.  Members noted that the new City of London’s Corporate Contractors would be on site in July this year.

The HR arrangements had not changed in order to provide continuity.

The water damage was outstanding and the Superintendent had ensured that this had been  captured in the issues log.

A new digital counting system had been installed in the Garden, using the same technology as Hampstead Heath.  There were notices on the till and frequent reminders for staff to use the counters.

The events programme had been particularly successful, with some 200 visitors to a recent Easter Family Day. 

A Member suggested introducing a collection

There were no questions.

There were no items.