The Alexandra Park and Palace Statutory Advisory Committee met on Thursday, 25th January 2024, to discuss the Chief Executive's General Update and the Fabric Maintenance Plan. Key decisions included noting the progress on various park and building maintenance projects and agreeing to consider and note the content of the CEO's report and provide advice to the Trustee Board.

CEO's General Update

The Chief Executive, Emma Dagnes, presented a comprehensive update on the activities within Alexandra Park and Palace, covering Creative Learning, Park operations, Property, and Events. A significant development reported was the appointment of ROOFF Limited as the main contractor for the North East Office Building Repairs, with the first phase of works scheduled to commence in January 2024 and conclude by the end of May 2024. Discussions are also underway to reactivate the Campsbourne Building for community use, with efforts focused on addressing a funding gap to meet the necessary standards for public access.

The report highlighted the success of the People's Picture (150 Lifetimes) project, which has received 1005 submissions to date and will culminate in a large mural in the East Court and the replacement of interpretation boards. An online visitor survey was launched in October to gather feedback on the northern area of the park, including the skatepark, playground, and Boating Lake, to inform future improvement projects and funding applications. The Café Restaurant has been brought in-house and is being managed by the Alexandra Park and Palace (APP) team.

Mark Evison, Head of Park and Environmental Sustainability, provided an overview of park activities, including rubbish collection, volunteer efforts, and traffic improvements. He noted that rubbish collection figures are nearing pre-pandemic levels. New Year's Eve saw approximately 6,000 visitors, requiring a substantial cleanup effort. Discussions also touched upon the implementation of a tap-to-donate system across the park for events and a broader giving strategy. The Bibliobuzz programme, a children's book award initiative, was highlighted as a significant success, expanding to four days this year.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about the priming of east wing doors, with the CEO stating that funding is currently unavailable for remedial work. Future road closures due to Red Bull events were mentioned, with updates to follow. The Great Bake event is not planned for this year due to feasibility constraints but may be considered for 2025. Councillor Alessandra Rossetti indicated she would circulate an email regarding road closure organisation issues. Councillor Eldridge Culverwell inquired about sound management during events, and the CEO explained that APP adheres to a sound level code, using independent monitors to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain good relations with neighbours.

The committee resolved to consider and note the content of the report and agree any comments or advice to the Trustee Board.

Fabric Maintenance Plan

Iain McDonald, Head of Property & Facilities, presented the annual review of the Fabric Maintenance Plan (FMP). Key findings indicated priority areas for structural integrity, including roof and bridge repairs, with 147 Great Hall roof glazing units identified for immediate replacement and extensive repairs needed for the Emergency Exit Bridge serving the Great Hall and the public footbridge.

Safety was also a key focus, with electrical installation systems in visitor areas identified as a priority, including distribution board replacements, emergency lighting renewal, and upgrades to detection systems. The report noted potential for energy efficiency improvements through ongoing work on Building Management System (BMS) controls, heating systems, LED lighting upgrades, and feasibility studies. Aesthetic enhancements for many facilities, including interior and exterior decorating and signage, were also identified as beneficial, alongside investment in pathways to minimise slip and trip claims.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about building the team and engaging apprentices and the community. The response highlighted long-term plans for apprenticeships and initiatives like pay it forward. The Changing Places project, aimed at improving disabled access to park facilities, is set to begin the following month. The CEO reiterated the ambition to transition APP away from fossil fuel energy within the next decade, noting initial steps like LED lighting installations have already reduced electricity usage by 20%. The renewable energy team will engage with schools to inspire future generations, with these initiatives dependent on the organisation's fundraising. Councillor Emine Ibrahim, Chair of Alexandra Palace and Park Board, inquired about opportunities for local residents, suggesting collaboration with Cornell for maintenance and bricklaying work to benefit young people, a proposal the CEO welcomed.

The committee resolved to consider and note the maintenance and repairs progress made in 2022/23 and 2023/24, including scheduled work not yet conducted, and to identify priorities for the next year.