Issue - meetings

The Chair asked for a brief introduction of the circulated report.

The Park Manager – Mr Evison in a succinct introduction, advised that under the contact conditions there was a period of warranty and certain works had been identified as remedial works which would be undertaken between now and the end of the project, as follows:

·      anti-skid coating at the Bedford Road entrance; replacement due to be carried out during July and, weather permitting, being completed within 10 days;

·      weeding and mulching of holly hedge facing the Avenue;

·      planting up empty area of Lakeside shrub beds;

·      replacing tar spray and chip coating at Dukes Avenue entrance;

·      replacement of failed tree planting.

In respect of the Pitch and Putt, Lakeside Café and Grove Kiosk Mr Evison advised that the negotiations on the lease terms of all three facilities were completed. The Grove Kiosk opened for drinks and snacks on 17^th June and the operator was considering use of the band stand area for weekend music events to compliment his service.  The Lakeside Café opened on 23^rd June with a snack and drink service accompanied by some light Jazz music.  Once construction of the kitchen was completed the operator did intend to offer an enhanced range of hot food, snacks and drinks. It was reported that the jazz was very popular on the opening weekend and consideration was being given to the band performing every Saturday throughout the summer.  Mr Evison reported that both café operators were considering further development their facility in the future.  The Grove Kiosk operator was considering expansion of the seating area and addition of a conservatory to the building to provide year round accommodation.  The Lakeside Café operator was considering enclosing the covered section between the two buildings.

Mr Evison further reported that with regard to the Pitch and Putt course this was now laid out and the new greens were seeded with high quality grass seed formulated for golf greens.  It was hoped that the operation would commence in late July once the new grass had become sturdy enough to support regular play.  The Information Centre in the Grove is now open, initially for a trial period on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12.00pm to 2.00pm.  There were on average five visitors per session, despite the recent wet weather.  It was hoped that in the future the Friends of Alexandra Park would assist in increasing the opening hours.

The Chair thanked Mr Evison for his comprehensive report, and sought clarification as to the removal of dead trees, and when this would happen.  In response Mr Evison advised that the removal would take place around November time.

The General Manager – Mr Loudfoot advised the Board that in respect of the meeting of the Statutory Advisory Committee on 3 July 2007 and the request of the Statutory Advisory Committee that :-

i.that the Alexandra Palace and Park Board be requested as a matter of urgency to ask TfL and LUC to find a way of maintaining  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8