Issue - meetings

The Chair advised that a deputation request had been received from the Friends of Alexandra Park, and asked whether the Board was in agreement to hearing the deputation.  The Board agreed to hear the deputation.

The Board then received the deputation from Mr G Hutchinson, on behalf of the Friends of Alexandra Park.  During the deputation Mr Hutchinson outlined the aims of the group which were:

·        to maintain rights of free access for the enjoyment of the public for air and exercise, leisure and recreation

·        to encourage the preservation of the natural beauty, trees, plants, birds and animal life in the Park

·        to encourage the use of the Park by all the diverse sections of the community

·        The main concerns that the Group had were whether there was adequate funding and staff for both maintenance and community activities, and envisaged tensions with the preferred bidder in respect of the commercial operation of the Palace. 

Mr Hutchinson outlined that the Group would work with the park management constructively and help with finding people with local expertise and willing assistance. It was hoped that the group could enhance the local knowledge and history of the park and wild life, as well as encouraging school visits, festivals and community events. Also it was hoped that the park would flourish to be enjoyed by an increasingly wide range of users and also a continued emphasis on conservation.

The Chair thanked Mr Hutchinson for his deputation and asked if there were any questions from Members. 

Councillor Thompson sought and received clarification from Mr Hutchinson as to the group’s  affiliation to the Borough-wide Parks Association, and that the Group had two representatives who attended meetings.

Mr Liebeck commented that it was extremely important for the Group to be taken seriously and for the Board to work with them in the future.

Councillor Hare sought clarification as regards the issue of contact with other associations in the area and Mr Hutchinson responded that a number of members of the group were members of local resident associations.

Councillor Peacock referred to the mention of school visits and if the group would be able to assist in visits etc.  Mr Hutchinson advised that there were some teachers and ex-teachers belonging to the Group who had indicated that they would be able to assist at such visits.

In conclusion the Chair thanked Mr Hutchinson for his attendance and deputation and that the Group shared many of the same aims and objectives of the Board.  The Board welcomed interaction with the Community and that it was good to be able to share views with local associations.

NOTED