Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath

Members considered a report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath relative to the Mid-Year Update Report for Keats House Charity 2020/21. The following points were noted:

·         During the COVID-19 lockdown, Keats House closed to the public, however this time was used to carry out works to ensure safety and preservation of artifacts; install new displays; conduct research on collections; promote Keats House as part of the Our City Together initiative. The house reopened to the public from Sunday 26 July 2020 with revised opening times and procedures.

·         The Artist in Residence’s continued, including sharing photography of the garden; writing for Our City Together; and facilitating a virtual flower-pressing workshop for the public.

·         Keats200 programming was offered online and programming would continue past 2020.

·         Works on the gates and toilets were tied up with the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) project. In the interim, the wooden gates had been replaced with like-for-like gates which would last until the spring when the project for CIL-funded elements would be carried out (pathways, lighting, exterior toilets and enhancements to the gateway).

·         Expenditure from Keats House reserves for improvements to the gates to be considered by the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee.

·         The Department of Open Spaces was working with the Chamberlain’s to reset the budget in light of the impact of COVID-19.

·         The contactless payment system would be set up as soon as possible.

The Keats Community Library provided the following update:

·         The library was closed from 17 March to 18 July, using the closure as an opportunity to clean the library and restock books. Since 18 July, the library has been open two days per week and operating with COVID-safe regulations, including mandatory masks. The library has been very busy since reopening due to high rate of library loans and outdoor programming. Discussions were underway with Keats House for a renewed license for a longer period.

RESOLVED, that Members:

1.    share their thoughts on achievements at Keats House and how the service continues to meet the priorities, aims and objectives outlined within the Corporate Plan 2018-23, the City Corporation’s Cultural Strategy, the Open Spaces Department Business Plan and the objectives of the Keats House charity; and,

2.    agree that the views of the Keats House Consultative Committee be conveyed to the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee at their meeting on 23 November 2020.