Issue - meetings

To advise the Joint Management Committee of the events which have previously been approved and new applications that have been received.

The Streetcare Manager reported that the 2017 Awareness Day had attracted around 800 visitors who enjoyed and experienced a wide range of activities including Tai Chi, Dr. Bike and dog agility.

The 2018 Awareness Day was scheduled to coincide with the Heritage Open Day Scheme and was scheduled to take place on Sunday 9 September.  All were welcome and Committee members in particular were encouraged to attend.

The Committee were informed that due to a decline in participants over recent years, the Sport Relief charity had decided to cancel the event scheduled for March 2018. 

A proposal from Classic Cars to host another Nonsuch Town and Country Show, building on the success of the past two years was discussed.  In keeping with anticipated continued growth of this event the organisers had requested extended car parking arrangements, and it was proposed to allow temporary parking on the grass surrounding the London Road Picnic area.  Having consulted the Habitat Management Plan and Epsom and Ewell’s ecologist, Peter Howarth, it had been concluded that allowing temporary parking would have little or no impact on the area.

Frances Wright of Nonsuch watch expressed concerns regarding the damage to the meadow that could be sustained from the cars, and that allowing the extended parking to go ahead would set a precedent for future events.  The Streetcare Manager offered assurance that having worked previously with the organisers they had observed their respectful and considerate approach and that they had built up a trusting and understanding relationship regarding the use of the Park.  It was also noted that this type of event brought in much needed income.

Accordingly, the Committee:

(1)            Noted the current event calendar

(2)            Noted the success of the Nonsuch Park Awareness day and the date for next year’s event (9 September 2018)

(3)            Noted the cancellation of the Sport Relief Mile event in 2018.

(4)            Agreed to the proposal to extend the parking provision for next year’s Town & Country Show.