FRIENDS OF WALTHAM FOREST PARKS FORUM

At the meeting on the 22^nd February the following was discussed:

1.       Keith Hanshaw, Director of Public Realm, explained how Greenspace would operate in the future. Nick Burton, Andy Lyon have left and Chris Moran will also be leaving. The remainder of the team will be allocated to parts of Public Realm where they will have access to support in their various roles. A new post is being advertised for Parks and Open Spaces Strategy.

2.       A new tree contract has been signed which will focus on parks and the budget has been enhanced. The strategy will be to maintain/replace trees on a ward basis.

3.       Keir has signed a new contract for ground maintenance of parks with no cut in budget.

4.       Various parks/open spaces have been improved – Lloyd Park, Marsh Lane, Drapers Field, Abbots Park, Orient Way and Stoneydown Park.

5.       Walthamstow Wetlands project is bidding for lottery funding.

6.       A new award, Green Flag Community Award is available for parks managed by the community.

7.       Friends of Parks can set themselves up as they see fit but if they use council property then the council will expect its paperwork to be complied with.

8.       Groundwork has a contract until 2014 to provide training for Friends Groups.