The Alexandra Park and Palace Statutory Advisory Committee met on Thursday, 25 January 2024, to discuss a range of updates on the park and palace's activities and maintenance. Key decisions included noting the CEO's general update and agreeing to consider and note the content of the Fabric Maintenance Plan report.

CEO's General Update

The committee received a comprehensive update from Chief Executive Emma Dagnes on various activities within Alexandra Park and Palace. This included progress on the North East Office Building repairs, with ROOFF Limited appointed as the main contractor, and the first phase of works commencing in January 2024, expected to conclude by May 2024. Discussions are ongoing regarding the reactivation of the Campsbourne Building for community use, with efforts focused on securing funding to meet the required standards for public access.

An online visitor survey has been launched to gather feedback on the northern area of the park, including the skatepark, playground, and Boating Lake, to support future improvement projects and funding applications. The Café Restaurant is now being managed in-house by the Alexandra Park and Palace (APP) team.

Mark Evison, Head of Park and Environmental Sustainability, provided an overview of his section, highlighting updates on rubbish collection, volunteer activities, and traffic improvements. He noted that approximately 6,000 visitors attended the park on New Year's Eve, necessitating a significant cleanup effort. Rubbish collection figures are nearing pre-pandemic levels. Corporate volunteers have contributed to woodland work, and the Chair commended efforts on Bedford Road.

During the discussion, councillors inquired about encouraging donations on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. The CEO stated plans for a tap-to-donate system across the park for events and a broader giving strategy for all APP events. The Bibliobuzz programme, a creative learning initiative, was highlighted as a significant success, expanding to four days this year.

Concerns were raised about the priming of doors for the east wing project, with the CEO noting a lack of funding for stripping and redoing them. Upcoming road closures for Red Bull events were also mentioned, with further updates to follow. The event 'The Great Bake' is not scheduled for this year due to feasibility constraints but may be considered for 2025. Noise complaints are up to date and available on the website. Councillor Alessandra Rossetti indicated she would circulate an email regarding road closure organisation issues. Councillor Eldridge Culverwell asked about sound management during events, and the CEO explained that APP adheres to a sound level code, using independent monitors to ensure compliance with regulations, acknowledging that noise perception can vary.

The committee resolved to consider and note the content of the report and agree any comments or advice to the Trustee Board.

Fabric Maintenance Plan

Iain McDonald, Head of Property & Facilities, presented the annual review of the Fabric Maintenance Plan (FMP). Key findings highlighted the need for attention to structural integrity, safety, energy efficiency, and aesthetic enhancements. A structural survey identified priority areas including roof and bridge repairs, with 147 Great Hall roof glazing units requiring immediate replacement and extensive repairs needed for the Emergency Exit Bridge serving the Great Hall and the public footbridge.

Safety priorities include electrical installation systems in key visitor areas, such as distribution board replacements, emergency lighting renewal, and upgrades to detection systems. For energy efficiency, the buildings show potential for improvement through ongoing work on Building Management System (BMS) controls, heating system infrastructure, LED lighting upgrades, and feasibility studies. Aesthetic enhancements are needed for both interior and exterior facilities, including decorating and signage improvements, and investment in pathways to minimise slip and trip incidents.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about building the team and engaging apprentices, students, and the community. The response emphasised the long-term goal of utilising apprenticeships and mentioned initiatives like pay it forward. The upcoming Changing Places project, designed to improve accessibility for disabled individuals, was also noted.

The CEO outlined the focus on financial and environmental sustainability, with an ambition to transition APP away from fossil fuel energy within a decade. Initial steps include LED lighting installations, which have already reduced electricity usage by 20%. The renewable energy team will engage with schools to inspire the next generation, with these initiatives dependent on the organisation's fundraising efforts.

The Chair inquired about opportunities for local residents, suggesting collaboration with Cornell for maintenance and bricklaying work to benefit local young people. The CEO confirmed an existing relationship with Cornell and expressed willingness to explore further collaborative opportunities.

The committee resolved to consider and note the maintenance and repairs progress made in 2022/23 and 2023/24, including scheduled work not yet conducted, and to identify priorities for the next year.

Suggestions for Future Agendas

The Chair reminded committee members to submit any suggestions for future agenda items to Natalie Layton, Boshra Begum, or the Chair directly.

Dates of Future Meetings

The Chair informed the committee that the date for the next Statutory Advisory Committee meeting had not yet been finalised, and Boshra Begum would provide an update once confirmed.