Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Environment.

The Board considered a report of the Environment Director Environment concerning the Commemorative Benches and Trees Policy aims to formalize the existing offer for benches and trees in City Gardens and Public Realm.

Officers noted that Commemorative trees would no longer be regularly offered, except for exceptional cases reviewed by a committee. Members were informed that there would be a separate report later in the year to discuss how individuals and organisations can contribute to tree planting in general.

In response to a question raised by a Member, Officers informed the board the responsibility for sponsoring a bench lies with City Gardens and any concerns about the wording on plaques for commemorative benches would be brought to their attention for a final decision. The board noted that Sponsorship of benches was currently prohibited within the Square Mile, preventing organisations from using benches for self-promotion. Officers recommended returning to the board with a proposal for allowing tree sponsorship in the form of commemorative trees.

RESOLVED – That Members,

a)    Approve the adoption of the draft Commemorative Benches and Trees Policy included in Appendix 1 of the report.