Agenda item

The Committee are invited to elect a Chairman in accordance with Standing Order 29.

The Committee proceeded to elect a Chairman in accordance with Standing Order No. 29. The Town Clerk informed the Committee that Caroline Haines as the only Member expressing their willingness to serve was, therefore, duly elected as Chairman for the ensuing year and took the Chair.

RESOLVED – That Caroline Haines be elected Chairman of the Open Spaces and City Gardens Committee for the ensuing year.

Wendy Mead moved a vote of thanks to Oliver Sells, the immediate past Chairman.

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: that the Members of the Open Spaces and City Gardens Committee express their since thanks to:

OLIVER SELLS, Q.C.

for his most exceptional dedication to the work of both these committees.

Oliver, as Chairman has demonstrated great leadership, dedication and tenacity through a most challenging period. His role in overseeing improvements to key areas across the Open Spaces Portfolio cannot be overestimated, reinforcing his commitment and obvious understanding of the need for outdoor space for all members of the community with benefits for health and wellbeing.

Specific mention should be made of his work on West Ham Park Committee, an outstanding park, much loved and used by the local communities. The new play area, the implementation which Oliver oversaw will be officially opened by him and he will so enjoy seeing the new playground in use.

His forward thinking has seen many other notable achievements that are testament to his passion for creating living and leisure areas benefitting city residents, workers and visitors for years to come.

Finsbury Circus, an area much prized in the City, was disrupted by Crossrail activity for almost a decade and in urgent need of regeneration. Under Oliver’s leadership, the reinstated gardens and restoration of the Central Pavilion are now once more a much needed and welcoming green space for all to enjoy.

A compassionate and caring Chairman, Oliver has proposed a permanent commemoration in Postman’s Park, between Aldersgate Street and Kind Edward Street who have lost their lives helping others through the recent Covid pandemic, a fitting tribute to his sympathetic understanding of the cost of human life.

In taking leave of him as their Chairman, his colleagues wish to thank Oliver for all the accomplishments under his leadership and wish him much success in his continued service in the City of London Corporation and in other bodies.