Agenda item

Report of the Director of Open Spaces.

The Committee noted a proposal from the London Borough of Newham (LBN) to permit the creation of a new entrance to West Ham Park opposite Park Primary School, in conjunction with the planned expansion of the school and a potential upgraded crossing between the school and the proposed new entrance. This is partly due to increasing pressure on existing space in and around the school premises. LBN’s application is on the understanding that the project would be cost neutral to the City Corporation (CoLC), and that all aspects of the project, including the final design of the gate and the resulting mitigation works within the park boundary, must be to the satisfaction of CoLC.

The Chairman thanked Officers for a commendable report. Discussions ensued regarding the need for a gate with another gate already existing in close proximity of suggested location. Members queried the design of the gate and were assured that any designs and cost analysis would be submitted to the Committee for consideration. Officers agreed that new pathways may be needed from the new gate and this would be considered in the design stage. Access to the gate would also be discussed with the school and these discussions would include who would man the gate and opening hours.

Resolved: That Members:

· Instructed the Director of Open Spaces and the City Surveyor to enter into

negotiations with the London Borough of Newham in order to progress the

design and costs of the proposed new gate;

· Agreed that Officers report back to this Committee seeking approval for the

design of the gate and any reinstatement of park land resulting from its

installation.