Agenda item

The report updated the Committee on progress made during the 2025/26 financial year, reflecting the Trust’s vision to create a sustainable home for all its activities. Work under each strategic goal was highlighted based on developments since the previous Board report.

Provide Great Entertainment and Culture for All

A wide range of concerts took place, including performances by Dom Dolla, Amyl and the Sniffers, Turnstile, Jyoty, Wilkinson, Electric Callboy, Overmono, Four Tet, Bad Omens and The Hives, with five receiving 5?star reviews in the Evening Standard. The Fireworks & Drone Festival ran from 31 October to 1 November despite poor weather, and planning began for the 2026 event. The PDC World Darts Championship returned successfully, with confirmation it would remain at the Palace until at least 2031 and expand into the Great Hall. Theatre highlights included Woman in Black and A Christmas Carol. Additional events included concerts, comedy, squash tournaments, exhibitions, community shows, and the return of the Red Bull Soapbox in June 2026. The summer outdoor concert season was announced, and road closures for 2026 events were being prepared. Leisure activities such as ice skating and festive events continued, and the Boat House opened to the public with a new menu. The Phoenix Bar and Pizzeria maximised sales during busy event periods.

Build Climate Change Resilience

A funding application was submitted to Haringey’s Community Carbon Fund to install secondary glazing at key buildings. The Theatre Green Book self?assessment was completed at basic level, demonstrating sustainable practices across departments. Work began with Mott MacDonald on the Zero Carbon Accelerator project to review clean?energy plans and develop a delivery strategy.

Protect Heritage Assets

Construction of the new rooftop attraction, Summit: Alexandra Palace Rooftop Adventure, was completed, with opening scheduled for February 2026. Conservation masonry works continued in East Court, including removal of inappropriate historic repairs and consultation on limewash colours. A Listed Building Consent application was submitted for lead capping to prevent water ingress.

Safeguard the Park

Volunteers and corporate groups carried out habitat management, built wildlife structures, and planted bulbs. A new bird?watching platform was constructed using partly recycled materials. Park maintenance teams completed seasonal tasks and removed over 37 tonnes of rubbish. The Park received multiple London in Bloom Gold awards, recognising high standards in landscape and habitat management.

Protect Archives and Share Stories

A Business Archives Council grant funded the recruitment of a project archivist, who surveyed 120 boxes by December. Archive images were used in the Boating Lake café, and heritage displays were created for major anniversaries. Additional heritage activities included tours, publications, and support for commercial projects.

Inspire and Engage Communities

The Creative Learning team developed partnerships, hosted screenings, supported Carers Rights Day, and delivered youth and arts programmes. Exhibitions, youth events, book festivals, theatre productions, school visits, and volunteer activities continued throughout the autumn. The Talent Development Programme provided free creative space, and volunteers supported gardening, reading initiatives, and archive organisation.

The report outlined significant progress across the Trust’s strategic goals during 2025/26. Key achievements included a strong programme of concerts, theatre, sports and community events; advancement of sustainability initiatives; major heritage conservation work; improvements to park habitats and facilities; expansion of archive and heritage engagement; and a wide range of community learning, arts, and volunteer activities. The organisation continued to broaden its cultural offer, strengthen environmental resilience, protect historic assets, and deepen community involvement.

RESOLVED: NOTED the report.