St. Leonards Gardens Management And

Management and DevelopmentManagement and

2018- 2028 StLeonards Gardens St. St. Leonards Gardens Leonards

OS LandrangerOS Map Number: Sheet St Leonards Gardens Leonards St

Grid Ref: Grid Plan Long: Lat:

TQ798090

50.8526

0.6305

199

CONTENTS

23 REFERENCE SECTION 1 PAGE 2.1.20 Events 2.1.21 Play 23 1.1 Purpose of the Plan 6 2.1.22 Healthy living 23 1.1.1 About the garden 6

1.2 Council Priorities 7

1.2.1 Community Strategy 7

1.2.2 Seafront Strategy 7 REFERENCE SECTION 3 PAGE 1.2.3 Outdoor Leisure Facilities Strategy 7 3.0 Character of the Garden and Physical 24 1.2.4 The Council's Environmental Policy 8 Management 1.2.5 Equalities 8 3.1 The Character of the Garden 26 1.2.6 Green Flag Award 8 3.1.1 Typology 26 1.3 History of St. Leonards Gardens 8 3.1.2 Plan of the Park 26 1.3.1 Status of the Garden 10 3.1.3 Character areas of the garden 26 1.3.2 Conservation Plan 10 3.1.4 Preserving the Heritage Value/Preventative 26 1.4 Management Plan linked to Development 10 Maintenance 1.4.1 Management Structure and Responsibilities 10 3.1.5 Sustainability Issues 27 1.4.2 Summary Statement: Aims and Objectives 10 3.1.6 Biodiversity and Nature Conservation 27 1.4.3 Generic Management Policies for the 11 3.1.7 Specimen trees 27 Town’s Parks 3.1.8 Grounds Maintenance 28 1.5 Monitoring and review 11 3.1.9 Human Resources statement 28 1.5.1 Monitoring 11 3.1.10 Financial Management/Budgets 28 1.5.2 Review 11

REFERENCE SECTION 4 PAGE 4.0 Conflict Management 29 REFERENCE PAGE SECTION 2 2.0 People and the Garden 12 REFERENCE SECTION 5 PAGE 2.1 Access and Equalities 13 2.1.1 Getting to the Garden – Public Transport 13 5.0 Management Action Planning 32 2.1.2 Car Parking and provision for people with 14 Appendix A – Asset maintenance plan 33 disabilities Appendix B – Strategic Action Plan 36 2.1.3 Access into and within the Garden 14

2.1.4 Limiting vehicular movements in the 15 REFERENCE SECTION 6 PAGE

Garden 6.0 References and Acknowledgements 39 2.1.5 Cycling in the Garden 15 6.1 Enclosures Supporting the Plan 39 2.1.6 Disability Discrimination Act - DDA 15 6.1.1 Website Links 39 2.1.7 Community cohesion – Sense of Place 15 6.1.2 Acknowledgements 40 2.1.8 Community development 15 2.1.9 The Burton St. Leonards Society 15 2.1.10 The Ranger Service 18 2.1.11 Customer care 18 2.1.12 Heritage 20 2.1.13 Education 20 2.1.14 Community Safety 20 2.1.15 Anti-social Behaviour – Public Space 21 Protection Orders 2.1.16 Risk Management 22 2.1.17 Dog control – Public Space Protection 22 Orders 2.1.18 Providing a Clean/safe Environment 22 2.1.19 Interpretation and information 23

FOREWORD FROM THE LEAD MEMBER OF PARKS – COUNCILLOR MAYA EVANS

Not only are Alexandra Park and St Leonards Gardens two of our town’s most valuable historic parks, both are at the very heart of the community. They play a vital role in helping improve the quality of people’s lives, provide a quality environment for residents and visitors and provide a focus for cultural and community activities throughout the year.

This difficult year has really demonstrated the importance of our parks to the community, providing an essential environment for people to physically exercise, as well as an opportunity for mental health well-being. Although this year has been challenging beyond expectation, having beautiful green spaces has made it bearable for many of our residents.

Our plans demonstrate the Council’s commitment to maintaining our parks to provide a wide range of horticultural, arboricultural, heritage, conservation, wildlife interest, and recreational and play facilities to meet the need of the local community and visitors. We will be looking to maximise our green spaces in terms of increasing biodiversity, which expands our ability to carbon capture, and facilitates our aims around carbon neutrality and tackling climate change.

We will continue to strengthen our relationship with our Grounds Maintenance Contractor, idverde, together with all the incredible community groups who help support environmental and sustainable management of the parks.

Both Alexandra Park and St Leonards Gardens have been successful in retaining the prestigious Green Flag awards, Alexandra Park having been first given the award in 2005, followed by St Leonards Gardens in 2009. We are proud to be recipients of the Green Flag as the award is valued and recognised as the benchmark national standard for publicly accessible parks and green spaces.

Hastings is extremely fortunate with its spectacular natural environment, an integral part of the town’s history, a lifeline for health and well-being, essential for tackling climate change, as well as playing a key role in the economic renaissance of the town.

3 SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION - GENERAL

South entrance into the gardens

West view of South Lodge

1.0 INTRODUCTION:

1.1 Purpose of the plan:

The importance of Parks & Gardens in an urban • The plan will promote policies for management environment was recognised in the Regency period which will be summarised at the end of the document. in the early 19th Century; this is as true of St. Leonards Gardens as anywhere else. Public gardens 1.1.1 About the Garden were created to enhance the health and wellbeing of the population and to give opportunities to socialise, As can be seen from the map (below), St. Leonards thus enhancing the community spirit. It is perhaps Gardens follows a tapering valley, stretching away no coincidence that today the value of parks and from the coast some 300 metres end to end, gardens are recognised for the same reasons. no more than 60 metres at its widest point and Despite this importance St. Leonards Gardens had covering approximately 1.4 hectares. It is located in th been allowed to decline in the latter years of the 20 St Leonards within Maze Hill ward and immediately Century. adjacent to the ward of Central St. Leonards.

In 2005 an application was made to the Heritage The Garden is largely ornamental and informal with Lottery Fund to restore the gardens and the lodge. extensive tree cover and a central pond. The garden The bid (project cost £1.16m) was successful and the snuggles in amongst impressive villas, constructed physical restoration was completed in the Autumn by James Burton, all in private ownership. Its linear of 2007. A Community Development Officer was nature creates a green link between the seafront and employed for 18 months and support was given to The Green. develop the Burton St. Leonards Societies role in this respect. The vision for this plan is to protect and further enhance the restored garden and conserve its heritage significance.

Specifically: • The plan recognises the historic landscape significance, defined in the conservation plan and aims to ensure that future management compliments this. • The plan will aim to develop and strengthen community involvement and enhance the communities use and enjoyment of the garden. • The plan is a working document, acting as a reference for future management. • Ultimately the plan will define resource requirements under a planned/prioritised management programme. • The plan is a fluid document that will be reviewed annually to include new information and amended management. • The plan will ensure continuity of approach and ensurethat its design, materials and landscape remain consistent with conservation plan prescriptions.

St. Leonards Gardens outlined in black

1.2 Council Priorities 1.2.1 The Community Strategy

Reference points (see reference section to access The Community Strategy includes a series of 21 key details): targets for improving the wellbeing of the community Community Strategy (2009 – 2026): of Hastings and St. Leonards. St. Leonards Gardens https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my-council/policies- can contribute indirectly to several of the targets. strategies/community2009/

Seafront Strategy 1.2.2 The Seafront Strategy https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/my_council /decisions_how/policies_strategies/pdfs/Seafront The Seafront Strategy – This strategy is largely _Strategy.PDF about developing the beach and promenade areas, but there is a clear aim to “join up” areas inland. Sport and Play Development Strategies: St Leonards Gardens is now a key destination with https://www.hastings.gov.uk/sport_play/strategies/ signage along the seafront promoting the location of the gardens. Environmental Policy – March 2010 https://www.hastings.gov.uk/environmentalhealth/ 1.2.3 The Outdoor Leisure Facilities & strategies_policies/environmental_policy/ Playing Pitch Strategy: Equalities statement https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my- https://www.hastings.gov.uk/sport_play/strategies/ council/transparency/equalities/equalities/ Hastings Leisure Facilities Strategy (2009-2020) The Strategy analyses a range of leisure facility types

found within Hastings. The outputs from this strategy The Green Flag Award Scheme managed by Keep are to explore the current and project level of supply Britain Tidy provides a nationally recognised quality and demand. standard for parks. Hastings Borough Council recognises and accepts this and will strive to reach Hastings Sport and Physical Activity Strategy 2016- this standard for all its key Parks and Open Spaces, 2020 including St. Leonards Gardens. It also forms the This document sets the strategic vision that Hastings basis for ongoing quality assessment. will be an active town where high quality sport and physical activity opportunities are accessible to all 1.3 History of St. Leonards Gardens (a and the majority of people are actively engaged in sport and physical activity. summary) Play Space Strategy This strategy recognises every child has a right to play James Burton purchased the land (24 hectares/60 and sets out how we plan to maximise the number of acres) from Charles Eversfield in 1828. An estate children who have access to good quality play spaces. map at the time showed the land divided into three fields. Burton set about designing the “enchanting Hastings and Rother Playing Pitch Strategy (2016) villas” surrounding the “sheltered fertile valley”. This is a strategic assessment that provides an up Work started on the construction of the St. Leonards to date analysis of supply and demand for playing Hotel (Royal Victoria today) in 1828. The gardens pitches (grass and artificial) in the local authority. were developed as a subscription gardens and were The Strategy provides a robust evidence base that used by guests from the hotel. can be used by the Council and other stakeholders for a wide range of future projects. In 1877 after the death of Alfred Burton (Decimus Burton’s brother), at which point the gardens were 1.2.4 The Council’s Environmental Policy in decline, the Council decided to purchase the site. https://www.hastings.gov.uk/environmentalhealth/strat They were opened to the public in 1880. Over the egies_policies/environmental_policy/ years the gardens were changed to include more seasonal bedding displays, but after the second war 1.2.5 Equalities these were removed again and more shrub planting took their place. Hastings Borough Council is committed to ensuring no-one in the community is disadvantaged and has Detailed history can be found in the Conservation adopted a Single Equalities Scheme. Plan: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my- council/transparency/equalities/equalities/ https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_gar dens_allotments/park_management/438047/St_ 1.2.6 Green Flag Award/Green Heritage Leonards_Gardens_Conservation_Plan_original.pdf Award:

Hastings Borough Council actively promotes the Green Flag and Green Heritage Award which have already been achieved in Alexandra Park since 2005 and Hastings Country Park from 2006; we will continue to use this as a benchmark for future improvements.

Birds eye of St Leonards circa 1835

An 1846 plan showing the Garden very much as it is today, but note the proposed St. Leonards Park on the former Hastings College site.

1.3.1 The Status of the Garden: 1.4.1 Management Structure and Responsibilities: The garden is a Grade 2 listed Garden of Special Client role: Historic Interest in England. The whole site is within The client role includes managing the Grounds Conservation Area 2 defined in the Local Plan 2004. Maintenance contract, asset maintenance, The garden is designated as a “Historic Garden”. the Ranger Service (providing interpretation, enforcement, & community safety), arboricultural 1.3.2 Conservation Plan services and nature conservation.

Contractor role: Statement on conservation of gardens and reference The Grounds Maintenance contractor changed to to heritage. idverde in November 2012, with the contract being Detailed aims, objectives a nd prescriptions for assigned for a 10 year term. They provide Grounds conservation management are contained i n the Maintenance services, including developmental Conservation Plan (ACTA March 2004). landscape works and ad hoc works. The contractor

provides an on-site dedicated gardener, who is based https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_gardens_a llotments/park_management/438047/St_Leonards_Gar in the south lodge with the Friends Group. dens_Conservation_Plan_original.pdf 1.4.2 Summary Statement: aims and Key aims: objectives The key aims for the garden through restoration were to establish their regency framework and relationship The aim of the management plan is to ensure that within the surrounding villas, while reinstating lost the Regency character and overall landscape quality features or adding high quality new ones which established during the restoration are retained and serve a real present-day purpose but reflect or are enhance. We will continue to maintain the value of sympathetic with the Garden’s history. St. Leonards Gardens to the community by: • Ensuring easy access to all 1.4 The Management Plan, linked to • Providing good signage/information development • Encouraging educational activities • Controlling unacceptable behaviour This Management Plan sets out the many benefits St. • Making the park safe and clean Leonards Gardens brings the community and attempts to balance these demands through Our objectives include: appropriate management and recommends that the garden is protected and enhanced and identifies its • Maintain a high standard of horticultural practice role in supporting the regeneration agenda for • Continue to increase the involvement of the Central St. Leonards. community in decisions about the ongoing management of the park. The Open Spaces audit carried out in summer 2005 • Maintain all restored structures in good state of highlighted the strategic importance of St. Leonards internal/external repair. Gardens and its regional contribution to the overall • Ensure all vandalism/graffiti is dealt with quickly. provision of green space. • To make the garden a safe and enjoyable place to be. • To promote the garden through marketing and information.

1.4.3 Generic Management policies for the town’s parks:

• Enhance existing green space rather than providing more • Providing a safe network of green links between the strategic green spaces • Commitment to maintaining the restored features and zero tolerance of anti-social behaviour, such as graffiti • Promotion of biodiversity • To strive for more sustainable management techniques

1.5 This Plan - Monitoring and review:

1.5.1 Monitoring:

Monitoring the progress in implementing the annual action plan will be the responsibility of the Parks and Open Spaces Manager.

Responsibility for monitoring the maintenance of the garden and its features will fall to the Contract Officer and the Grounds Maintenance Contractor, idverde.

1.5.2 Review: The Plan will be reviewed annually and where necessary adjustments will be made, taking into account changing priorities and budgets.

SECTION 2

PEOPLE AND THE GARDEN

http://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/my_council/decisions_how/policies_strategies/pdfs/community_strategy

2.1 Access and Equalities Public transport: The nearest railway station is St. Leonards Warrior The Town has a growing population of people from Square from which the gardens are a 10 minute walk. varying ethnic groups. The Council’s equalities policy aims to ensure fair and equal access for these groups to all Council Services. https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my- community/communitygroups/minorityethnicgroups/

The Council will encourage opportunities for ethnic groups to utilise open space, and in particular monitor the use of St. Leonards Gardens by minority groups.

The garden offers free and unrestricted access opportunities for the whole community. It offers members of the community a chance to join together and interact in a positive and enjoyable way.

Access to parts of St. Leonards Gardens is limited due to its topography.

2.1.1 Getting to the Garden (Public Transport):

The garden is located within Maze Hill ward immediately adjacent to Central St. Leonards.

Cycling links to the garden are easily achieved via the promenade National Cycle Network 2 cycle route, which has been improved by the addition of a section linking Hastings & Bexhill.

All other cycling links are on normal roads. Cyclists can access the garden from The Green under the North Lodge which is closed to vehicular traffic.

Please find the following link to the cycling and walking strategy: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/planning/pla nning_policy/local_plan/evidence_base/pdfs/inform ation/hastings_A4_cycling_strategy.pdf

Reaching the park on foot: (See map crossing allows safe access to the garden. Further above) access improvements have been provided through the Central St. Leonards Masterplan regeneration A - The seafront project in conjunction with the Hastings and Rother B - The Green to the north Disability Forum. C - Links to Central St. Leonards can be made via Maze Hill Terrace and Stanhope Place 2.1.3 Access into and within the Garden: D - Decimus Burton Way to Kenilworth Road. Access into the garden is affected by the topography within the site. The northern entrance is via steps 2.1.2 Car Parking and provision for and a slope down through the top section. A steep people with disabilities: flight of steps drop down from Upper Maze Hill to the east. The other main entrance is from the south Ample car parking (pay and display) is available on the end beneath the lodge accessing the main lawn area Seafront a short distance from the gardens. Disabled and the lodge. parking bays are provided within the seafront car park. For wheel chair users, or those with limited mobility, there is access to the southern section of the gardens The Seafront is the busy A259 trunk road. A zebra

through the South Lodge. The upper and lower 2.1.8 Community development: gardens are separated by steps on the eastern side and a slope to the western extreme. The Burtons’ St. Leonards Society moved into the Lodge in winter 2007 and have developed a Friends The path network throughout the park is sound and of St. Leonards Gardens group. A framework has appropriate to its purpose. There is now limited been agreed for at least 10 events per year and the access for maintenance vehicles from Maze Hill on interpretive centre is currently opened on three days the east side of the gardens, avoiding the entrance of each week. under South Lodge. Passive use of the garden by the community will be 2.1.4 Limiting vehicular movements in encouraged through events and activities organised the garden: to draw others to the garden.

Controls have been introduced to limit use of 2.1.9 Burtons’ St. Leonards Society – vehicles, including contractor’s vehicles by: Friends of the Gardens:

• Installing bollards and barriers to prevent vehicle access through the entrance at South Lodge and The Society was formed in the 1960’s at the time from the access gate on Maze Hill Hastings College was built, as an action group to • The use of less intrusive vehicles and equipment by protect the heritage and architectural value of Burton contractors St. Leonards.

The focus for the group changed once the area gained 2.1.5 Cycling in the Garden: conservation status in 1977. The Burtons’ St. Leonards Society is a registered charity and is fully Cycling is not permitted within the garden. constituted. The Society is now based in the west side of the South Lodge. 2.1.6 Disability Discrimination Act - DDA: A Friends of the St. Leonards Gardens group has been Full accessibility will be achieved wherever possible formed with its own constitution. They focus on the or the least restrictive option in other areas. Universal sustainable management of the Gardens and design principles will be considered wherever supporting community activities. reasonably practical in the context of the gardens. The Society lease West Lodge under Heads of Terms 2.1.7 Community cohesion – “Sense of which are mutually beneficial. In particular they carry out the following: Place”: • Staff the interpretive centre on 3 days of every week (1 day at the weekend) The gardens offer opportunities to relax, walk the • Provide guided walks between May – September. dog, learn about the local heritage, for children to • Support educational visits from local schools play, have a picnic with friends or participate in sport. Additional activities are arranged in the form The Friends meeting are bi-monthly to: of events, catering for varied tastes and aiming to • coordinate any community based activities attract those who might otherwise not use the • influence decisions on future developments/ garden. restoration • provide/facilitate interpretational activity for the garden and Burtons’ St. Leonards

• act as a conduit for community involvement with future management of the gardens.

Members receive a newsletter from the Society and regularly updates are posted on their website. http://www.burtonsstleonardssociety.co.uk

In summary the key aims and objectives for the group are: • Ensuring the future of the restored garden is sustained • Encouraging events/activities that promote the garden • Future fund raising • Promotion of interpretational educational activities.

Examples of the extensive information in the lodge, supplied and curated by the Burton St Leonards Society

Historical context supplied by the Society Flyer for a talk on Decimus Burton organised by the society

The lodge also has capacity for exhibitions – Shown above Local wildlife photographer Bob Swan

2.1.10 Ranger Service: 2.1.11 Customer Care Hastings Borough Council utilises Confirm Customer The Park Ranger regularly visits St Leonards Gardens Services module to record and monitor public and and liaises with The Burton’s St Leonards Society. officer enquiries. Targets are set for dealing with The Ranger Service currently operates 5 days per each element/enquiry type and monitored through week. Confirm to ensure responses are given within prescribed targets. Incoming enquiries/complaints idverde also provide a uniformed presence as part are monitored through this system and any associated of the Grounds Maintenance Contract and there is a correspondence and photos can be linked to the nominated head gardener who leads the horticultur- enquiry. Once the enquiry is generated, if applicable al work at the gardens. to the grounds maintenance contract, the report is emailed to idverde (the GM contractor) as a work Key elements of the Ranger Service’s include: request/instruction. • Enforcement • Interpretation As the contractor also has access to Confirm, they • Education sign off the report as complete when the works have • Public safety been undertaken. All other reports generated are • Inspection/Reporting distributed to the relevant officer. As a last resort, the formal complaints procedure can be adopted for unresolved issues.

Example of a Confirm Customer Services Report

Hastings Borough Council also has an online reporting facility “My Hastings”, where park issues (i.e. fly tipping, graffiti, litter, full bins, glass etc.) can be reported. This report is directed to the GM contractor to their mobile device for the contractor to action. Once actioned, the GM contractor updates the report, which is submitted to the individual who reported the issue, advising them of the action taken. The Friends of St. Leonards Gardens act as a conduit for Garden specific enquiries.

Example of a “My Hastings” Report

2.1.12 Heritage 2.1.14 Community Safety

For many, the history of the town and the community The Council’s Corporate Plan supports Section 17 of in which they live gives people a sense of place. As the Crime and Disorder Act 1999 and has benefited such people gain comfort and stability from it and from police advice on design of the Garden. there is a strong interest in increasing their http://www.hastings.gov.uk/my-council/corp-plan knowledge and understanding. The history of St. Leonards Gardens has roused much interest and a Future management will address the safety of users visit to the garden is all the more enriched, with this in a number of areas, they include: in mind. • People’s perception of the gardens as a safe place Details on the history of the garden appear in the to use Conservation Plan March 2004: • inappropriate behaviour of others https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_garden • providing and maintaining a physically clean/safe s_allotments/park_management/438047/St_Leonar environment ds_Gardens_Conservation_Plan_original.pdf • ensuring users are well informed about all aspects of the park Further detailed information can be found on Hastings Museum’s website and from the Burtons’ St The Ranger regularly visits the site and works closely Leonards Society website: with the Friends and the Burtons’ St. Leonards https://www.burtonsstleonardssociety.co.uk/ Society. The dedicated gardener provided by the Grounds Maintenance Contractor will also be on site and provide support to the public. The cultural heritage of the garden has to be recognised as well, whether through historic events Part of the restoration project was to restore views associated with the garden or through more personal within the site and between the site and surrounding experiences. properties by selectively removing trees and other The Society provides and displays a range of vegetation. This has increased the amount of passive interpretive material within West Lodge in order to supervision from properties that overlook the site. enhance people’s appreciation of the site. Care will be taken to maintain these sight lines. Graffiti is removed quickly and any damage repaired 2.1.13 Education promptly.

St. Leonards Gardens can offer huge opportunities The restoration of the gardens has increased in helping children understand both the natural and community use of the site and perceptions of safety historic landscape of the area and the importance of have improved. A by-product of the project has been protecting if for future generations. the renovation of adjacent dilapidated properties, thereby increasing the feeling that this is a safe place Schools are encouraged to fully utilise this valuable to be. resource. The Burton St. Leonards Society has already developed an interpretive walk taking in Events continue to promote activity and use of the the architecture of the area, including the gardens. park to ensure that it is well used. There is a positive The Society also facilitates educational activities and correlation between having a busy site, with lots of works with the Ranger service. people in it, and people’s feelings of safety. The other element of safety refers to physical Health

and Safety and addresses hazards and risks associated Failure to comply with restrictions set out in the with the public’s use of the garden. An up to date risk Public Space Protection Orders in the areas they assessment is in place for the gardens and a recorded apply to is an offence. H&S site check is made every 3 months by the Rangers. The risk assessment is reviewed annually as “Public Spaces Protection Orders are intended to deal part of the Council’s corporate H&S procedures. with a particular nuisance or problem in a particular area that is detrimental to the local community’s Byelaws: quality of life, by imposing conditions on the use of The byelaws for the Garden were introduced in 1966; that area which apply to everyone. They are designed these were reviewed in 2014. to ensure the law abiding majority can use and enjoy The Gardens are covered by a Street drinking byelaw public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour.” introduced by Sussex Police. https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_garde The PSPO’s begun on Monday 12 June 2017 and will ns_allotments/park_management/438047/parksby be enforced by Sussex Police and the Council. elaws The Rangers monitor anti-social behaviour in the 2.1.15 Anti-Social Behaviour – Public gardens and work closely with the Friends and the local Policing team. Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s) A full copy of the Anti-social Behaviour PSPO’s can be The PSPO’s are made under the provisions of the found through the website: Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. https://www.hastings.gov.uk/community-safety/pspo/

2.1.16 Risk Management: 2.1.18 Providing and maintaining a clean/ safe environment: Public Risk Assessments: Site based risk assessments are undertaken regularly. The Grounds Maintenance Contract requires The Rangers carry out regular inspections as part of maintenance to a high standard based on a the Council’s system of inspection to meet our duty performance/outcome specification. of care under the Occupiers Liability Act and Health Specific requirements for St. Leonards & Safety at Work Act. Gardens have been incorporated into the Grounds Maintenance Contract. Emphasis is Contractor’s risk assessments: placed on complying with the Environmental Our contractors have comprehensive risk assessments Protection Act (EPA) Code of Practice for litter for all their activities, we will review these annually clearance based on the garden having a Zone 1 to ensure they are kept up to date and relevant. classification.

Performance quality monitoring of the park is Water quality in the pond is monitored regularly regularly carried out jointly by HBC and idverde as by the Ranger to ensure favourable conditions exist part of the partnership management of the GM for wildlife. Regular maintenance to inlets and contract as a whole. All aspects of the park are outlets will ensure correct levels are maintained. In examined and high priority issues are assessed and extreme conditions barley straw bales are used to addressed during the inspection. deal with algae and additional water agitation through pumping to increase oxygen content. 2.1.17 Dog Control – Public Space Client monitoring of the Grounds Protection Orders (PSPO’s) Maintenance Contract is undertaken via regular inspections attended by representatives The PSPO’s are made under the provisions of the of HBC and the GM contractor. Sites are Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. inspected and scored against the site features in Failure to comply with the restrictions set out on the contract being maintained to the correct the Public Space Protection Orders in the areas they standard. apply to is an offence. The contractor’s performance is reviewed at Dog Control PSPO’s are intended to deal with a key meeting points throughout the year. Rangers particular nuisance or problem in a particular area also raise reports of anything requiring action or that is detrimental to the local community’s quality repair following their visits which are logged on of life, by imposing conditions on the use of that Confirm. The quarterly H&S inspections highlight area which apply to everyone. They are designed to any maintenance issues or hard landscape items ensure the law abiding majority can use and enjoy that may require attention in the future. Reports public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour.” from the Friends are dealt with in a similar way.

The PSPO’s begun on Monday 12 June 2017 and will be enforced by Sussex Police and the Council.

The Rangers monitor anti-social behaviour I n the gardens and work closely with the Friends and the local Policing team. A full copy of the Dog Control PSPO’s can be found through the website: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/community- safety/pspo/

2.1.19 Interpretation and information: Event Booking Process: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/event- Ensure users are well informed about various aspects planning/ of the Garden. Good information systems will ensure users get the most from their visit, however many Event Booking Process: times they use the garden. The information includes: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/event- planning/licensing/ • Directional signage from the Seafront and welcoming entrance signage, including map of the site showing main features/activities and where to get extra information. The Gardens has become a popular event for open • Universal design to ensure good access of air theatre in the summer due to its intimate and information to all enclosed nature. • Information point outside the lodge at the southern entrance of the garden, including general information,Friends of the Park, community information and Park Rangers’ board for interpretative/educational activity. These will be regularly updated by the Ranger Service and the Burtons’ St. Leonards Society. • Website based information with links to various activities. • Burtons’ St. Leonards Society newsletter published bi-monthly available to the general public. • Interpretive and other educational activities will Grand Summer Event - A Midsummer be organised by the Society, between May and Night's Dream September.

2.1.20 Events 2.1.21 Play Management of Events: Play is an important part of the physical, emotional Events in St. Leonards Gardens are managed and psychological development of any child. In the by the Bookings and Events Officer. All events urban environment, the Gardens offer a safer place are over viewed by Licensing and Health and for parents to take their children. Lack of garden Safety Officers. An event booking pack is sent space at home and the busy nature of most roads out which highlights all the key issues for make ‘community’ play very difficult; however many organisers. The booking form can also been parents bring their children to the park to enjoy the downloaded from the website which is then natural environment, lawns, lake and pathways. returned to [email protected]. 2.1.22 Healthy Living A permanent Premises Licence was granted for the Gardens in September 2011. This provides Hastings Borough Council and its partners recognise greater flexibility for community events to be held this as a key priority and the potential benefits of subject to the conditions of the licence.The only open space can offer. practical area for events to be held in the Gardens https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my-council/policies- is the lower lawn with access through the strategies/community2009/ entrance off Maze Hill or through the South Lodge. Access is somewhat limited and will make servicing large events quite difficult; size too, will limit the numbers of people able to attend. 23

SECTION 3

CHARACTER OF THE PARK AND PHYSICAL MANAGEMENT

Part of Rose Wood’s watercolour of Allegria – c 1840

Gardeners at work in St. Leonards Gardens in 1872….

…And present day

3.1 The Character of the Garden: • Paths Minor repairs/re-sealing to prevent water ingress. Control of heavy vehicles.

• Buildings Paint regularly – rolling programme

• Trees Health and Safety inspections, tree surgery and replacement programme.

• Grass areas remedial maintenance following heavy usage

• Pond Regular maintenance to ensure good water quality.

3.1.1 Typology: Detailed Management Prescriptions An annual maintenance schedule will be generated St. Leonards Gardens is a multi-functional open for all maintainable assets, based on a rolling space and is of huge historic significance. programme.

3.1.2 Plan of the Park/Boundaries:

The extent of the garden is shown in section 1.1.

3.1.3 The character areas of the garden:

These are described adequately in the Conservation Plan: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/park s_gardens_allotments/park_management/ 438047/St_Leonards_Gardens_Conservatio n_Plan_original.pdf

3.1.4 Preserving the Heritage Value /preventative maintenance:

The garden is managed and maintained to preserve its historic significance and heritage value. Specific Conservation Management training was provided by the Historic and Botanic Garden Bursary Scheme (HBGBS) to Grounds Maintenance and Council staff, in order to ensure continuity of management.

Following restoration a programme of maintenance was introduced taking proactive actions in protecting the infrastructure which still stand today. Examples include:

3.1.5 Sustainability Issues:

St Leonards Gardens has adopted standards in sustainable management based on the same standards adopted at Alexandra Park, our Heritage Grade II listed site.

Wherever possible arisings will be composted or recycled, new materials will derive from renewable resources and pesticides and inorganic fertilisers will be avoided if at all possible. Peat or peat products have been systematically reduced within the park.

• All green waste is composted on site and at the compost recycling area at Hastings Country Park, Compost bays in the Gardens Fairlight Place farm. The compost recycling bays are managed, turned, processed and screened. The resulting final product being used back in the gardens and throughout the towns parks and 3.1.6 Biodiversity and nature open spaces. conservation:

• Since 2005 we have sourced plant materials in A biodiversity strategy has been adopted. St. Leonards reduced peat growing mediums, and currently all Gardens has no priority species, but supports typical bedding plants are grown in a peat reduced mix, garden birds and wildlife. being approximately 65-70% peat. The plastic trays are recyclable and are collected by the grower to 3.1.7 Specimen trees: re-use for next years season. The gardens have a limited number of specimen • All hard materials, such as woody prunings are trees, the majority being Sycamore, surrounding included within the compost recycling process. the garden, which have enclosed the garden and substantially hidden the surrounding villas. A number • Herbicide will only be used in the case of were removed or crown lifted to re-introduce vistas pernicious weeds, alternative methods will always within the site. Opportunity will be taken to enhance gain priority when appropriate. the tree collection by replacing trees that are lost in future years. It is not intended to cut down further trees now to facilitate new planting appropriate to the Regency period.

A programme of division allows plant stock to be sustainably multiplied - last year’s division of Sysirinchium

3.1.8 Grounds Maintenance Contract Specification:

The specifications for the Grounds Maintenance contract (Nov. 2012) have been carefully reviewed, significant enhancements for the gardens were introduced after restoration. The higher levels of GM spending have been maintained through the contract re-tending process that took place during 2012. As pressure on budgets is increased by reductions in the Council’s overall budget, St. Leonards Gardens will remain a priority and standards of horticultural maintenance will be protected.

Contractor/Client Interface: The relationship between contractor and client has become more productive and operates in the spirit of partnership. The Council and Contractor work in partnership so that improvements to the service can be achieved through a cooperative arrangement. Good communication is achieved through regular contract and on site meetings

3.1.9 Human Resource Statement:

A role of a Head Gardener has been established and is responsible for the upkeep of the Gardens. The post holder is horticulturally qualified and already has some experience of maintaining historic parks in the town. The Head Gardener has, and will continue to be, involved in the “fine tuning” and delivery of this plan.

3.1.10 Financial Management/Budgets:

The revenue budgets for 2018/19 are set out below for St Leonards Gardens and associated activities.

St. Leonards Gardens – Budget 2018/19

Budget Source 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21

Grounds Maintenance - £10,600 £11,000 £11,600 £11,658 routine works

Grounds Maintenance - £6,500 £6,500 £6,500 £6,500 non routine

SECTION 4

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

This section deals with issues, which result in potential conflict and suggests some resolutions. The issues raised are those that have led to debate, criticism and concern in the last few years.

REF ISSUE RESOLUTION Cycling:

Cycling is prohibited through the current The no cycling byelaw is enforced. A byelaws. There does not appear to be a problem with cycling in the Gardens.

Events and damage/disruption to neighbours: Although most events are popular and well Events are carefully selected so they are supported, they do have the potential cause suitable for the site and are managed through B inconvenience to local residents and cause the events booking procedure and compliance damage to the Gardens e.g. people trampling with the premises Licence conditions. over wet lawns.

Over use by Contractor’s vehicles: Measures have been put in place to minimise Vehicles causing damage to paths, grass and C vehicle use and is unlikely to be a problem. forcing pedestrians to take evasive action.

Pollution of Watercourse: There is little potential for pollution but Monitor areas closely and oxygenate the water D likelihood of algal bloom, thus reducing oxygen during hot periods. levels. Dog fouling bins have been superseded by Children and dogs: Combined waste bins throughout the borough Small children playing and others may be at risk in 2015 and are well used. Dog Control Public E from dogs that are not under proper control Space Protection Orders were introduced and illness caused by exposure to dog faeces. on 12 June 2017 and are enforced by Sussex Police and the Council.

Litter: F In the garden litter is currently not a major Daily site visits are made by the GM contractor. issue

Hazards: An up to date risk assessment is in place for Regular H&S inspections are carried out by the G the site. Rangers, HBC Officers and the GM Contractor

View of the gardens from the north – Rose Wood’s watercolour of Allegria c. 1840

SECTION 5

MANAGEMENT ACTION PLANNING

APPENDICES

Contemporary view of the garden – looking North

APPENDIX A – GROUNDS MAINTENANCE PLAN

Soft Landscape Maintenance - Summary of works 2018 2019 2020 2021 Asset Type Cut to a height of 25mm and leave arisings. The height of growth must not exceed 50mm. Arisings are to be blown back onto grass areas by means of mechanical blowers. Clear all leaves and debris from grass at High Amenity Grass a frequency that prevents any damage to the sward. Strim edges around wall/fence bases and obstacles throughout the growing season. Cut twice a year, first cut being undertaken during the second two weeks of April and the second cut at Environmental Areas the end of August to a height of between 75mm and leave cuttings. Some areas requiring maintenance are steep banks and will require cutting with either a tractor mounted flail and/or specialist equipment.

High Amenity Shrub Shrub borders are to be maintained to a clean and tidy appearance. Soil surface will be kept weed free Areas through regular cultivation and use of mulch. Shrubs will be maintained to maximise their growing potential. The contractor is required to purchase, supply and plant bedding plants and bulbs as per the contract planting plan, schedules and contract specification. Planting is to be undertaken twice a year in October Bedding and May. The previous season’s bedding, including bulbs, corms and tubers are to be lifted and cleared. The planting design will be rotated on a two year basis for spring and summer as per schedules.

33 Bulbs are used extensively as part of the spring bedding display. Supply and plant out bulbs in accordance

Bulb and Corms with the contract planting plan, schedules and contract specification. Plant at correct depth according to bulb type Maintain borders to a clean and tidy appearance, free of weeds with open and friable soil. Cut down and Rockeries and remove after flowering spent flowers. Maintain shrubs to high amenity shrub specification. Maintain Perennial borders borders free of litter, leaves and finished stems.

Noticeboards Clean glass/polycarbonate monthly and clean remainder of cabinet 6 monthly.

Handrails Clean monthly

Clean monthly, removable bollards are to be removed from sockets and sockets cleaned to ensure ease of Bollards operation. Lubricate locks on each occasion.

Seats Clean monthly, report any damage

Water safety points Inspect life rings and housing daily. Replace any missing equipment as necessary.

Sites are catergorised under the Environmental Protection Act designation and cleared as per the EPA’s Litter collection zones designated. Response times to bring sites to their required standard of cleanliness vary from half a day to one day. Woodlands are scheduled for a monthly clearance.

Graffiti Remove graffiti by use of chemical or paint out using a colour to match existing. Remove within 12 hours.

Soft Landscape Maintenance - Summary of works 2018 2019 2020 2021 Asset Type

Fly tipping Remove within 24 hours and report all incidences.

Bins within sites assigned EPA1 standard require emptying daily between Easter and the end of September Litter bins - emptying and twice a week during winter. Bins within sites EPA2 require emptying twice a week, year round. Clean every three months, lubricate hinges and locking mechanisms after each clean. Paths, sites entrances and step sweeping frequencies are based on EPA zoning. EPA1 Weekly Path sweeping EPA2 Fornightly EPA3 Monthly

Watercourses and banks are to be kept clear of all vegetation and rubbish throughout the year and banks Water bodies kept clear of vegetation. Maintain all culverts, outfalls, overflows, weirs and grills clear of leaves and other debris throughout the year. Operate sluices and penstocks once every three months.

34 Hard Landscape Features Maintenance - Summary of works 2018 2019 2020 2021 Asset Type

Inspect Notice Boards Paint

Inspect Seats

Paint

Inspect Bollards

Paint

Inspect Iron railings

Paint

Inspect and clean - monthly Hand rails

Paint

2021 2021

2020 2020

2019 2019

2018 2018

source sandstone

y of works y of works August

good/safe condition)

and for leaks

daily in

May May

annually -

survey Summar Summar Paint Paint

decorate decorate decorate Inspect - Inspect - - quarry, as before. in placein - - - Re Re Re leaks and obstructions Clean monthly Check all intact construct as dry stone wall; Condition

- Check Clean gulleys - from local Check for Check oxygen levels Check integrity of the roof Maintenance Maintenance o check tenants are maintaining (t fix stones that are loose - Re

ds Society,ds

Features

geboards Roof Pond Walls Litter bins Elevations Internal External Path network The Lodge The Asset Type ater safety points repairing lease. Windows/doors Rainwater goods W Fascias/bar Hard Landscape Responsibility of Burton's St. Leonar

APPENDIX B – STRATEGIC ACTION PLANNING

Policy Actions 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

Commit to continual improvement 1. Review and confirm future available funding Y y y y y

Enter Green Flag Award 1. Enter St Leonards Gardens annually Y Y Y Y Y

Enter Green Heritage Award 2. Enter St Leonards Gardens annually Y Y Y Y Y

1. Ensure all entrances are kept free of encroaching vegetation. Crown liftin g of Y Y Y Y Y trees where appropriate

2. Ensure all entrance and interpretation signs are clearly legible, updated a 36 Y Y Y Y Y cleaned as part of the quarterly inspection

A Welcoming Place 3. Maintain, update and improve standards of Notice boards at main entra nces Y Y Y Y Y

4. Assess and improve access pathways through the park Y

5. Carry out assessment and works to maintain clear views and vistas into th e Y Y park from the roadside 1. HBC managers will determine priorities for access improvements based o n Y Y Y Y Y practicability and in consultation with disability access groups

Healthy Safe and Secure 2. Undertake quarterly Health & Safety Risk Assessment review Y Y Y Y Y

3. Carry out reactive work to address issues raise in H&S risk assessments Y Y Y Y Y

4. Plan and adapt to the emerging Public Space Protection Orders Y Y

Policy Actions 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

1. Repaint and repair railings – identify areas most in need Y Y

2. Repaint and repair bins – identify need Y Y Y Y Y Clean and well maintained 3. Asses bin replacement requirement Y Y Y Y Y

4. Carry out full quality and performance monitoring with GM contractor of the Y Y Y Y Y park features 4 times per annum.

1. Produce a plan to reduce carbon footprint year on year of contractor and client Y Y

2. Programme of plant division and cultivation for the park Y Y Y Y Y

Sustainability 3. Create new and extend existing nectar rich annual flower areas for biodiversity Y Y and public interest

37 4. Community lead task days bulb planting in selected areas Y Y Y

1. Continue maintenance schedule of structures / buildings with appropriate Y Y Y Y Y Conservation and Heritage materials and colour schemes

2. Use of heritage materials and furniture designs in keeping with the restored Y Y Y Y Y park

1. Encourage a variety of events and activities through the HBC Facilities Y Y Y Y Y Development Officer

Community Involvement 2. Coordinate community and volunteer planting and conservation work task day. Y

3. Continue to support activities organised by the Burton St Leonards Society Y Y Y Y Y

1. The Council encourages schools to visit the Park and undertake forestry school Y Y Y Y Y activity.

2. HBC website to be updated regularly with links to other relevant websites/ Marketing Y Y Y Y Y activities.

3. Promote park and items of associated interest on social media Y Y Y Y Y

ST LEONARDS GARDENS PLANNED CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2021

(In development, can be confirmed to judges at the time of judging).

6.0 References and Acknowledgements:

6.1 Enclosures, supporting the plan:

Conservation Plan – available through website https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_gardens_allotments/park_management/438047/St_Leonards_ Gardens_Conservation_Plan_original.pdf

6.1.1 Website links:

Index of all strategies: http://www.hastings.gov.uk/my_council/policies_strategies/

Community Strategy: http://www.hastings.gov.uk/my_council/policies_strategies/community2009/

Walking and Cycling Strategy https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/planning/planning_policy/local_plan/evidence_base/pdfs/information /hastings_A4_cycling_strategy.pdf

Events application form: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/event-planning/

Link to Licensing application - HBC website: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/licensing/premises/

Application for premises licence: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/licensing/pdfs/licensing_act_app_forms_guidance/Application_for_a_ Premises_Licence_(.pdf_21KB).pdf

Application for Consent of individual to being specified as premises supervisor: https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/licensing/pdfs/licensing_act_app_forms_guidance/Consent_of_individ ual_to_being_specified_as_premises_supervisor_(.pdf_26KB).pdf

Byelaws www.hastings.gov.uk/content/parks_gardens_allotments/park_management/438047/parksbyelaws

Wild Hastings: http://www.rxwildlife.info/

Public Space Protection Orders https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my_community/community_safety/pspo/

6.1.2 Acknowledgements:

Special thanks are afforded to: • The Burtons’ St. Leonards Society • idverde • Hastings Borough Council Parks and Gardens Team

Terry Drinkwater Parks and Open Spaces Manager

Environment & Place Hastings Borough Council 3rd Floor, Muriel Matters House Hastings East Sussex TN34 3UY

January 2021