Issue - meetings

The report provides service update information to the Lower 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:

·       Appointment process for Co-Opted Members for Trust Board

·       Events programme

·       Arts & Makers market

·       Urban Forest Strategy and Nature Recovery Strategy application within the Gardens.

·       Council Directorates updates

The report provides information to note whilst also seeking support and approval to proceed with workstreams.

The Director of Environment presented the Spring Update Report, providing service updates to demonstrate the Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the Lower Central Gardens for the recreation and enjoyment of the public, in accordance with the Charity Scheme.

The Board received an update on the proposed appointment process for Co‑Opted Members to the Trust Board. It was noted that the Trust Board was seeking to recruit between three and four Co‑Opted Members, and that a draft advertisement and role description had been prepared. Members discussed the recruitment process and noted that interviews would be undertaken by Trust Board Members, with recommendations made to Cabinet acting as Trustee.

RESOLVED that the Board approve the advertisement and commencement of recruitment of new Co‑Opted Trust Board Members.

The Head of Leisure and Events provided a verbal update on the 2026/27 events programme. The Board was advised that the programme largely reflected existing events and that no new large‑scale events were proposed. An update was also provided on work being undertaken to promote increased community use of the bandstand, including targeted engagement with community groups and improved promotion of booking opportunities.

The Board received an update on the Arts & Makers Market following the conclusion of the trial operator arrangement. Members were advised that an existing artist had submitted a proposal to operate the market on a one‑year trial basis for the 2026 season. The Board supported a return to a community‑led approach for the operation of the market.

RESOLVED that the Board approve the proposed approach for the operation of the Arts & Makers Market for the 2026 season.

The Strategic Lead for Greenspaces and Conservation provided an overview of the Council’s adopted Urban Forest Strategy and Dorset Nature Recovery Strategy and outlined how these aligned with the objectives of the Trust. Members discussed the balance between environmental sustainability, biodiversity and the ongoing use of the Gardens.

RESOLVED that the Board approve the formation of a subgroup to develop site plans for the Gardens in support of the delivery of adopted Council strategies.

An update was also provided on grounds maintenance activity, including post‑event reinstatement works following the removal of the ice rink. Members were advised that decompaction, seeding and fertilisation works had been undertaken, and that recovery of the grass was progressing well.