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.