Issue - meetings

The report provides service update information to the Lower Central Gardens Trust Board to demonstrate the Council commitment to maintain the public gardens known as "The Lower Central Gardens" in Bournemouth for the recreation and enjoyment of the public in accordance with the terms of the Charity Scheme made by the Charity Commission on the 13 May 2011.

Items include:

-         Christmas event proposals for 2025 - 2030

-         Art & Makers market update

The Director of Commercial Operations presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A’ to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The report provided service update information to the Lower Central Gardens Trust Board to demonstrate the Council commitment to maintain the public gardens known as "The Lower Central Gardens" in Bournemouth for the recreation and enjoyment of the public in accordance with the terms of the Charity Scheme made by the Charity Commission on the 13 May 2011.

Items include:

-       Christmas event proposals for 2025 - 2030

-       Art & Makers market update

The Committee discussed the report and the Christmas event proposals for 2025 - 2030 that they received from the proposed event operators.

The Board considered the proposal and made the following comments:

·       In response to a query raised regarding the button for the interactive elements of the gardens, the Board was advised that the interactive units would be placed on a hard standing. Furthermore, the areas of grass designated for foot traffic will be covered with wood chippings or protective grass mats.

·       The Board reviewed the proposal and recognised the need to balance the best interests of both the heritage gardens and the residents.

·       In response to a query raised regarding the grass used in the gardens, the Board was advised that various methods had been utilised to maintain the grass, including the use of UV lights, but they had been ineffective. However, during the winter months, it took time for the three different types of seed that were being used to regrow.

·       The Board was advised that the proposed operator had agreed to restore the grass to the best possible condition after the event and would follow BCP Council’s advice on how to achieve this.

RESOLVED that:

a)    Trustees support the following:

(i)             the draft plans for the Christmas offer for 2025 - 2030 ahead of pre planning submission.

(ii)           the proposal for the operation of the Art & Makers market for 2025.

Voting: Unanimous