Report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath.
Minutes:
Members considered a report of the Superintendent of Hampstead Heath regarding the review of the 2017 Events Programme and the provisional 2018 Events Programme. The Leisure & Events Manager provided his highlights for 2017 and an update on what was coming up for the year to come. The following comments were made.
· It was noted that 2017 was a great year for events at the Heath and there were 101 events in total. Particular highlights for the Committee included the London Youth Games, “One Man and his Dog” and the Night of 10,000m.
· The 2018 National Cross-Country Championships takes place on 24 February 2018 at Parliament Hill. Members were advised that two Shire Horses would attend the Heath on the Sunday following the Cross-Country Championships to carry out restoration works.
· The Night of the 10,000m Personal Bests international event would return to the Heath on 19 May 2018. This is expected to receive extensive media coverage bringing 40 world class athletes to the track to compete in the Europa Cup. Members were advised that discussions are taking place with the BBC to make this event available on television via the Red Button.
· A Member queried the “Hounds of the Heath” event and other similar events. The Leisure & Events Manager advised that this was a charity event and that the money raised went to a dog charity.
RESOLVED –
· Members noted the success of the 2017 Hampstead Heath Events Programme in engaging with audiences, attracting new visitors to the Heath, and working with partners to provide a valuable service for the local community and beyond;
· Members took the views of the HHCC into account regarding the potential damage to the public perception and reputation of the Hampstead Heath Charity; and the potential security issues arising from the use of performing animals (domestic). However, the Committee approved that a circus on the Heath in 2018 should be allowed to feature performing domestic animals provided that the above requests of the Committee were adhered to by the circus;
· Members agreed the proposed 2018 Events Programme, taking account of the views of the HHCC.
Supporting documents: