Agenda item

To receive an update from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Louise Stewart, Chief Executive Officer, introduced the report which provided an update on current issues and projects at Alexandra Park and Palace and additional information on the events programme and a range of activities of the Charitable Trust.

It was noted that there had been no substantial update in relation to car parking since the last meeting. It was explained that the procurement process was progressing and it was aimed to implement the new scheme from April 2022. It was added that the donate to park scheme would be continuing until then.

In relation to the Duke’s Avenue Bridge, it was clarified that the Trust felt that ‘permitted development rights’ should not apply to any proposed changes to the bridge and that a full planning application process was required. However, since then, it was noted that Highways England had halted its programme of legacy bridge works across the country and was revising their approach after a significant amount of protest from a range of local and national interest groups and the general public.

It was enquired what sort of consultation would take place in relation to the charging for professional dog walkers. The Chief Executive noted that the Trust had been looking to introduce licensing for professional dog walking in Alexandra Park for several years. It was explained that a number of areas had introduced schemes for valid management reasons, primarily in order to meet costs. It was noted that there was no timetable for consultation but that the Trust would be approaching local professional dog walkers and active social media groups; it was added that any suggestions for consultees were welcomed.

It was enquired whether the slogans for Alexandra Park, such as ‘Forever Yours’, had been tested more widely in a focus group. The Chief Executive noted that there was no budget to conduct a focus group but that the feedback provided on the had been noted and that the wording of the slogans had been revised.

It was noted that the building, including the East Court, remained closed to the general public, other than for specific events. The Chief Executive explained that it was aimed to re-open to the public as soon as possible but that it was necessary to have appropriate cleaning regimes and arrangements in place.

In response to a question about flooding on the site near the Crouch End Playing Fields, the Chief Executive noted that the flooding had been a known issue for a number of years. It was explained that an application had been made to the Mayor’s Fund for sustainable drainage systems (SUDS); the whole area would need to be surveyed and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) would be funding some of the surveys. It was added that this was being progressed with Haringey Council and that there would be a site visit with the Head of Planning shortly.

It was noted that a number of members and local residents responded positively to the set up for Kaleidoscope as it had been contained within the boarded area and the vehicles had not caused damage to the park or created risks for pedestrians. However, it was stated that the post-event process had not operated as smoothly. It was suggested that it would be beneficial if the post-event process could replicate the pre-event process. The Chief Executive noted that she would forward this feedback.

It was noted that the BBC would be commemorating its 100 year anniversary in 2022 and it was enquired whether there were any plans to offer support. The Chief Executive noted that discussions were ongoing with the BBC and that it should be possible to provide future updates.

Cllr Ibrahim noted that the Cyprus Wine Festival was no longer taking place at Alexandra Palace and it was enquired whether the diversity of events was being maintained. The Chief Executive explained that the team was now collecting more information relating to the diversity of events, including audiences and artists, in order to increase diversity. She noted that she could not discuss individual events in a public meeting but that the issue of diversity and overcoming any barriers to access could be further discussed outside of the meeting.

RESOLVED

To note the report.