The Alexandra Park and Palace Board is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 29 October 2026. The meeting pack includes updates on environmental sustainability, financial performance, and a significant project to replace the Panorama Room. The board is also expected to receive reports on the Charitable Trust's progress, energy procurement, and the procurement of a new finance system.

Environmental Sustainability Update

A report is scheduled for discussion regarding the environmental sustainability efforts at Alexandra Park and Palace. This report is expected to include an update on the carbon footprint for 2025/26, which shows a reduction of almost 15% compared to the 2019-20 baseline. The report is anticipated to detail progress on the Zero Carbon Accelerator project, outlining a phased approach to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2041. This involves energy efficiency measures, potential renewable energy generation, and long-term heat decarbonisation strategies. The report is also expected to highlight ongoing sustainability initiatives such as lighting upgrades, water efficiency improvements, and the installation of air curtains. The board is expected to consider the Carbon Reduction Plan and the formal target to reach Net Zero by 2041.

Charitable Trust Progress Report

The board is expected to receive an update on the progress of the Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust for the financial year 2026/27. This report is anticipated to cover various strategic goals, including the provision of entertainment and culture, building climate change resilience, protecting heritage assets, and safeguarding the park. It is expected to detail successful events such as the Summer Season concerts, Kaleidoscope Festival, and the return of the Red Bull Soapbox Race. The report is also expected to outline efforts to improve energy efficiency, protect heritage assets through maintenance and infrastructure improvements, and manage the park environment, including efforts to mitigate drought conditions. Community engagement, archive preservation, and fundraising activities are also expected to be covered, alongside plans for restoring underused spaces and establishing new partnerships.

Finance Report and New Finance System Procurement

A comprehensive Finance Report is scheduled, which is expected to detail the financial performance of the Trust up to August 2026. The report is anticipated to highlight challenges faced by charities in the current economic climate, including rising operational costs and labour market pressures. It is expected to outline the Trust's strategic framework, vision, mission, and values, and provide an update on the Three-Year Operational Business Plan for 2026/27. The report is expected to detail financial challenges such as increased business rates and general cost inflation, alongside mitigation strategies including car park charge increases and enhanced fundraising initiatives. The board is expected to receive information regarding the procurement process for a new accounting software system. The current system is described as no longer fit for purpose, prone to technical issues, and with inadequate support. The report is expected to detail the tender process, evaluation criteria, and the selection of Company Five as the preferred supplier for a system that aligns with future integration and finance aspirations.

Panorama Room Replacement Project Update

A significant item on the agenda is an update on the Panorama Room Replacement Project. The report notes that the existing Panorama Room, a temporary structure in operation since 2003, has reached the end of its serviceable life and is fundamental to the Trust's commercial operations. Its replacement is intended to improve sustainability, accessibility, structural performance, and reduce long-term maintenance liabilities. The project is expected to cost approximately £3.5 million and is proposed to be funded through a loan from Haringey Council. The report is expected to detail the procurement process, the appointment of StarLive as the Main Contractor, and the ongoing planning and listed building consent process, with applications expected to be submitted by 30 September 2026. The new structure is anticipated to be ready for the 2027 World Darts Championship.

Energy Procurement Strategy

The board is expected to consider the Energy Procurement Strategy, which outlines the proposed approach to procuring gas and electricity. The proposed approach is to remain within the Crown Commercial Service/Government Commercial Agreement framework, retaining EDF for electricity and Total Gas and Power for gas. The proposed move to an L12 purchasing product is expected to offer significant annual savings compared to the current L6 product and a bespoke quote from YPO. The strategy also addresses the addition of Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates, with the current position being not to purchase them at this stage.

Other Reports

Further discussions are scheduled to include feedback from the Advisory and Consultative Committees, a verbal update from the FRRAC Chair, and a report on the BBC Television Service Broadcasting at 90 programme. The board is also expected to consider exempt items related to minutes, financial reports, and progress reports.