Agenda item

Report of the Director of Open Spaces.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Open Spaces on the City Gardens Manager update. The report provided an update to Members of the Open Spaces & City Gardens Committee on management and operational activities across the City Gardens section since February 2021.

The Committee discussed the Finsbury Circus reopening and the variety of events which were scheduled to be held. Members noted that it was important to utilise the space for suitable events but agreed that no event should limit the use of the space for any other users. The Director of Open Spaces informed the Committee that an upcoming report on events to be held in the City Gardens would consider this, noting the legal factors involved, to ensure that a suitable balance is targeted. 

Responding to Member’s query the Director of Open Spaces confirmed that the Member had been written to following the same query at the previous meeting, and that a report on the future plans for the road between Finsbury Circus and Moorgate Station was being prepared by the City Public Realm team and was due to be presented to the Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee for consideration. It was noted by a Member that they were determined that this matter be resolved promptly and would present a motion to the Court of Common Council in May if sufficient progress had not been made. The Chairman agreed noting that this was an example of an overly bureaucratic approach limiting progress unnecessarily.

The Chairman added that he wished to see more outside gymnasium equipment installed at appropriate open spaces.

RESOLVED- That the report be noted.