Subscribe to updates

You'll receive weekly summaries about Richmond upon Thames Council every week.

If you have any requests or comments please let us know at community@opencouncil.network. We can also provide custom updates on particular topics across councils.

Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee - Wednesday, 12 June 2024 7.00 pm

June 12, 2024 View on council website
AI Generated

Summary

The Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council met on Wednesday 12 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the procurement of a green space management contract, the Richmond Road East Twickenham Conservation Area Appraisal, and the tender for a litter enforcement contract. Decisions were made on all these topics, with significant implications for the borough's parks, conservation efforts, and litter management.

Procurement of Green Space Management Contract for Richmond

The committee approved the tendering of a new contract for the provision of green space management services for Richmond’s parks and other open spaces. This contract, valued at £6.81 million excluding inflation, will span six years with an option to extend for an additional six years. The procurement will be a joint effort with Wandsworth, although each council will retain its sovereign identity. The contract aims to enhance social value, create local employment opportunities, and encourage innovation.

The committee discussed the challenges of transitioning to a fully electric fleet and equipment, noting that while it is not currently feasible, the contract specification will require tenderers to propose methods to reduce carbon emissions. The committee also highlighted the importance of Friends Groups in maintaining high standards in parks and open spaces.

Richmond Road East Twickenham Conservation Area Appraisal

The committee approved the draft Conservation Area Appraisal for Richmond Road (East Twickenham) for public consultation. This appraisal is part of a borough-wide priority programme that began in 2021. The public consultation will commence in June 2024 and last for a minimum of four weeks, potentially extending to six weeks.

The appraisal proposes the removal of Buildings of Townscape Merit (BTM) designation for certain buildings, including 354 Richmond Road, due to alterations under permitted development rights. The committee encouraged local residents and representatives of residents’ associations to participate in the consultation process.

Tender for a Litter Enforcement Contract

The committee approved the tendering of a new concession contract for littering and fly-tipping enforcement services in the borough. This contract will last up to three years, with an option to extend for an additional two years. The new contract aims to be cost-neutral and will maintain staffing levels as part of a joint contract with Wandsworth.

The committee discussed the effectiveness of the current litter enforcement trial with NSL, which has been extended annually since 2020. The new contract will continue to focus on problem areas for litter and ensure fairness in the issuance of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN). The committee also highlighted the importance of a multi-agency approach to addressing fly-tipping on private land and the success of the 'Megaskips' initiative in encouraging responsible disposal of items.

Forward Plan

The committee noted ongoing work with the Thames Landscape Strategy to refresh existing riverside strategies, funded by the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee. An update on this work will be provided in September 2024. Additionally, a site visit to Orleans House Gallery is planned for June, with a subsequent paper to follow for a future committee meeting.

Councillor Chas Warlow raised the River Thames Scheme and the potential for reviving the hydropower scheme at Teddington Weir. The Chair indicated that while the River Thames Scheme focuses on flood alleviation, the council is open to discussing proposals from third-party community organisations interested in energy generation schemes. The committee expressed interest in learning more about the benefits, costs, and maintenance of hydropower schemes.

An update on the Community Toilet Scheme and the appointment of a dedicated officer will be provided in the report on toilet provision in Richmond town centre expected in September. The committee also noted that an update on the Community Toilet Scheme is expected at the Policy and Performance Review Board on 9 May 2024.

Attendees

Profile image for CouncillorElizabeth Gant
CouncillorElizabeth Gant  Liberal Democrat Party •  Hampton North
Profile image for CouncillorZoe McLeod
CouncillorZoe McLeod  Liberal Democrat Party •  East Sheen
Profile image for CouncillorFiona Sacks
CouncillorFiona Sacks  Sanctuary Champion •  Liberal Democrat Party •  Barnes
Profile image for CouncillorChas Warlow
CouncillorChas Warlow  Deputy Leader of the Opposition •  Green Party •  South Richmond
Profile image for CouncillorAlan Juriansz
CouncillorAlan Juriansz  Vice-Chair, Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee and Lead Member for Sport •  Liberal Democrat Party •  West Twickenham
Profile image for CouncillorLaura O'Brien
CouncillorLaura O'Brien  Liberal Democrat Party •  West Twickenham
Profile image for CouncillorJulia Neden-Watts
CouncillorJulia Neden-Watts  Deputy Leader and Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Services Committee •  Liberal Democrat Party •  Twickenham Riverside
Profile image for CouncillorChris Varley
CouncillorChris Varley  Liberal Democrat Party •  South Richmond
Profile image for CouncillorJohn Coombs
CouncillorJohn Coombs  Vice-chair of the Planning Committee, Spokesperson for Arts •  Liberal Democrat Party •  Heathfield

Topics

No topics have been identified for this meeting yet.

× Meeting image