On 24 February 2021 at 4 pm the Hampstead Heath, Highgate Woods and Queen’s Park Management Committee will meet virtually. The meeting can be viewed here and the full agenda pack for the meeting can be seen here.
The proposed swimming charges for 2021 are in this paper, with most charges increased by the higher RPI inflation rate, except for concession season tickets at the ponds. These are proposed to increase by 21% (6 months) and 15% (12 months). The City of London Corporation is again “levelling up” by increasing concession charges by a much greater percentage than those for full price tickets. Despite feedback from the KLPA they are still refusing to introduce a monthly direct debit for season tickets, to spread the cost.
The proposed re-opening plans for the ponds and Lido are set out here, based on a tentative re-opening date of 29 March 2021, subject to lifting of lockdown restrictions. This will see a return to mostly pre-booked swimming sessions. The City of London has not yet publicised details of a telephone booking line that is promised for those without internet access, but we will share this number when we find out what it is.
Despite recent denials in Ham & High, the City’s Draft Divisional Plan still includes reference to future charging for the use of toilets based on contactless payment (last page).
Recent coverage of the City of London Corporation’s spending priorities, including wining and dining can be seen in the Camden New Journal.
We have been contacted again by the East London Waterworks Park campaign group. They are now raising funds to develop their plan for an environmental project in Waltham Forest at a former waterworks, including the development of an open water swimming venue. Details of the Campaign can be found here, and their fundraising page is here.