Decision details

(Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Maia Whitelegg)

(Councillor Tony Johnson declared a prejudicial interest in the following item due to being a City Council representative on the Williamson Park Board of Directors and left the meeting prior to consideration thereof.) 

The Head of Cultural Services submitted a report that updated Cabinet on progress against the Parks and Open Spaces Action Plan. 

The options, options analysis, including risk assessment, were set out in the report as follows: 

The options within the report related to the proposals for Happy Mount Park and Highfield Recreation Ground. 

Happy Mount Park - Do nothing

Failure to achieve an identified Action Plan in the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy and a cessation of any further private sector investment and development in Happy Mount Park.

To support the enhanced “partnership” with the private sector.

Achievement of an identified Action Plan in the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy. Subject to final approval by Cabinet, at a later date, the possibility of further private sector investment and development in Happy Mount Park.

Highfield Recreation Ground - Do nothing

Failure to achieve an identified Action Plan in the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy and failure to secure external funding (only available to community groups) that would bring the tennis courts and pavilion back into operation.

To support the community management model.

Achievement of an identified Action Plan in the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy. Subject to final approval by Cabinet, at a later date, the possibility of “pilot” community management model which, if successful, could be rolled out to other parks within the District.

The preferred officer options were to support the enhanced “partnership” with the private sector and to support the community management model. 

It was moved by Councillor Jon Barry and seconded by Councillor John Gilbert: -

“That the recommendations, as set out in the report, be approved.” 

Resolved Unanimously:

(1)     That Cabinet note the progress made against the Parks and Open Spaces Action Plan.

(2)     That Cabinet authorise Officers to progress the respective “partnership” proposals in respect of Happy Mount Park (private) and Highfield Recreation Ground (community), with a view to bringing either or both proposals forward to a future meeting of Cabinet for final consideration and approval. 

Note:  Councillor Tony Johnson was not present when the vote was taken. 

Officers responsible for effecting the decision:

Corporate Director (Regeneration).

Head of Cultural Services. 

Reason for making the decision:

The two schemes provide the Council with an opportunity to test out alternative and innovative approaches to the management of parks and open spaces.