Agenda item

To consider the general update on activities in the Park and Palace.

The CEO Emma Dagnes presented the Chief Executive’s General Update report, which included updates on Creative Learning, Park, Property, and Events activities.

Regarding the North East Office Building Repairs Committee was informed that following a competitive tender exercise, ROOFF Limited have been appointed as the Main Contractor. The first phase of works will start in January after the Christmas break. The programme is expected to run until end of May 2024.

Campsbourne Building reactivation discussions have been taking place about reactivating the building for community use. Work was underway to find solutions to a funding gap in order to bring the building up to the required standards for allowing public access. There was also great TV coverage over the Christmas period.

The CEO urged members of the Committee to promote the People’s Picture (150 Lifetimes) within their area, there was a total of 1005 submissions to date. The project will culminate in the installation of a giant mural in the East Court, as well as the replacement of the various interpretation / information boards located around external areas of eastern end of the building (the BBC Tower, Transmitter Hall).

Regarding the Northern Area of the Park, an online visitor survey was launched in October to gather feedback and opinions on the northern part of the Park (skatepark, playground and Boating Lake). The purpose of the survey is to gather data that can be used to build the case for moving forward with improvement projects and to help with funding asks.

The Café Restaurant had been taken in-house and was being run by the APP, the CEO expressed thanks to the team making great use of the small budget.

Mark Evison, Head of Park and Environmental Sustainability, provided a concise overview of the Park and Environmental Sustainability section of the report. He highlighted updates on rubbish collection, volunteer activity, traffic improvements, and memorial benches. Furthermore, he mentioned that on New Year's Eve, approximately 6,000 visitors came to the park, necessitating a significant cleanup effort by the park team to preserve the space and the building. Regarding rubbish collection, it was observed that figures were nearly back to pre-pandemic levels. Corporate volunteers contributed to work in the woods, with the Chair commending their efforts on Bedford Road.

The following points were noted in the discussion:

·         An inquiry was made about whether there were any additional efforts to encourage donations on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. The CEO responded by stating that they plan to implement a tap-to-donate system across the park for events, while ensuring the safety of volunteers in any fundraising activities. Additionally, a giving strategy will be rolled out for all other events in Alexandra Park and Palace.

·         The CEO highlighted Bibliobuzz under the Creative Learning section of the report, noting its significant success. This year marked an exciting development as the program transitioned to offering over four days.

·         There were 60 active volunteers, with 21 volunteers supporting Haringey Feast. Elizabeth Richardson noted that for the east wing doors project, the doors were not primed. However, the CEO mentioned that there is currently no funding available to strip and redo them.

·         There would be road closures coming soon due to Redbull however updates would follow closer to the time.

·         'The Great Bake' was not planned to take place this year due to feasibility constraints. However, consideration was given to the prospect of organising it in 2025.

·         It was observed that the report contained a list of noise complaints, which is up to date. However, for the most accurate and current figures, they are available on the website.

·         Councillor Rossetti expressed her intention to circulate an email regarding the ongoing issues surrounding the organisation of road closures.

·         Councillor Culverwell inquired about the management of sound volume in the area during events. The CEO explained that Alexandra Park and Palace (APP) adheres to a sound level code but acknowledged that perception of loud noise varies among individuals. To address this, the palace monitors sound levels using independent measures and ensures compliance with regulations. Sound perception is influenced by factors such as weather conditions, hence the investment in independent sound monitors. The goal is to maintain good relations with neighbours.

RESOLVED:

To consider and note the content of the report and agree any comments / advice to the Trustee Board.