The Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee met to discuss the management and maintenance of the Welsh Harp Reservoir and surrounding areas. The committee noted updates on management activities from both Barnet and Brent councils, including progress on the West Hendon Playing Fields project, marshland conservation, and the Staples Corner Growth Area Masterplan. The committee also discussed water pollution levels and potential enforcement patrols.

Welsh Harp Management Plans

London Borough of Barnet Update

Matthew Gunyon, Head of Greenspaces, provided an overview of Barnet Council's activities related to the Welsh Harp Management Plan. Key updates included:

• Management and Operations: Mr Gunyon reported that the issue of a reported rough sleeper had been resolved.
• West Hendon Playing Fields Project: The project is progressing with a phased approach to delivering the masterplan.
• Vegetation Clearance: Barnet's in-house Grounds Maintenance team cleared an area of vegetation between the north marsh and the playing fields.
• Water Pollution Levels: In response to a question about monitoring water pollution levels, Mr Gunyon said he had contacted the Environment Agency for a response and would update the committee at the next meeting.
• Signage: A request was made for signs such as ‘no BBQs’ to be considered. Mr Gunyon said that the service was reviewing enforcement patrols to take place over Friday and Saturday summer nights.
  • Barnet Council's Parks and Open Spaces Strategy outlines the council's commitment to maintaining and improving parks and open spaces for residents.

London Borough of Brent Update

Leslie Williams, Project Officer, presented an update on Brent Council's activities related to the Welsh Harp Management Plan. Key updates included:

• Marshland Conservation: Mr Williams updated the committee on recommended works to conserve the marshland along the edge of the Brent Reservoir with Neasden Recreation Ground.
• Pulley Wheel Sculpture: The Canal and River Trust have submitted a planning application for the Pulley Wheel sculpture, with materials reclaimed from a previous dam.
• Staples Corner Growth Area Masterplan: Brent Council launched the Staples Corner Growth Area Masterplan.
  • The Staples Corner Growth Area Masterplan and Design Code Supplementary Planning Document provides guidance to support regeneration and development in Staples Corner, which borders the south-east of the Welsh Harp.
• Welsh Harp Education Centre: In response to a question from Councillor Mary Mitchell, Mr Williams said that the scope of the idea remained roughly the same and advised Councillor Mitchell to contact the relevant department for an update.

Other Matters Discussed

Previous Minutes

The minutes of the meeting held on 25 November 2024 were approved as a correct record.