Little Harlington Playing Fields
Management Plan
2015 – 2020 Year Two
Green Spaces Team London Borough of Hillingdon Green Flag Award Winner since 2008
Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
Table of Contents
page
1. Introduction 3
2. Site Summary 4
Map 1- Site Entrances 7
Map 2- Key facilities 8
Map 3- Site Aerial Photograph 9
3. Vision for Little Harlington Playing Fields 10
4. Site Aims and Objectives 10
5. Management Objectives and Maintenance Plan 18
6. Appendix
Appendix A – Introduction to the London Borough of Hillingdon 22
Appendix B – Site Marketing Analysis and Plan 24
Appendix C – Site Grounds Maintenance Standards 26
Appendix D - Site Tree Survey 35
Appendix E - Council Plan: Commitment to Green Flag Award 41
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1. Introduction to Little Harlington Playing Fields
This site has been the boroughs most used grass sporting facility since the late 1950’s. The site has 8 football pitches and 2 cricket tables; the pitches are home to several football clubs and casual cricket bookings. The pitches are of a good standard. During the summer period this site is used for junior football coaching courses and tournaments.
Little Harlington is also home to a local model aircraft club who use the site on non-sport days. The main site building was built in the 1960’s and refurbished in 2006 to comply with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act. It provides facilities for both sports men and women. The clubhouse was recently re-let as ‘The Café on the Green’ as a café and coffee bar for the benefit of site users and passers by, following an extended period of closure.
The site was subject to gravel extraction during the late 1990’s and was fully restored its current high standard on completion of works.
A shelter belt planting scheme has been established on the two sides of the site to provide wild life habitat and reduction in noise and pollution.
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2. Site Summary
Details Site Name Little Harlington Playing Fields Address Sipson Lane, Hayes. Postcode UB3 5EU Grid Reference 507846, 177907. Ownership London Borough of Hillingdon Name of Lead Officer Neil O' Connor Lead Officer’s contact details Postal: Green Spaces Team Civic Centre 4W/08 High St, Uxbridge Middlesex, UB8 1UW
Email: no'[email protected] Office: 01895-250029
Date site acquired 10th October 1938 Access Points Main Entrance: 1 x Vehicle Sipson Lane, Hayes
Other Entrances: 2 x Pedestrian Sipson Lane, Hayes PPG17 designation Outdoor Recreation Facility London Parks typology designation Sports Playing Fields Key features Key habitats Amenity Grassland, hedgerow , scrubland Sporting features 8 Football Pitches / 2 Cricket tables Other recreational / leisure facilities Pavilion and changing facilities Cafe Resting points 2 x park benches
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Description: The site is 10.5 Acres mainly laid to grass and is predominantly used for sporting fixtures.
Location: Situated half way down Sipson Lane opposite the former Harlington cottage hospital Under 2 miles from the M4/M25 Junction, and 1.5 Miles from the Stockley by-pass
Access: There are four entrances to the playing fields all of which are situated off Sipson lane. There are two pedestrian entrances and a main vehicle entrance, the fourth is locked and only used by term grounds maintenance contractor.
History: The site was brought from Mr R Rayner in 1938, by the then County Council The land was subject to Gravel extraction in the early nineties and put back to level playing fields.
Ecology:
Avifauna
Great Spotted Woodpecker House Sparrow Green Woodpecker Hedge Sparrow Song Thrush Black bird Mistle thrush Robin Starling Blue tit Carrion Crow Great tit Wood Pigeon Long-tail tit Feral Pigeon Collared Dove Jays Magpie Wren Gold Finch Gold Crest Green Finch Pied Wagtail Siskin Yellow Wagtail (m.) Skylark Swallow Swift Fieldfare (w.v.) Redwing (w.v.) Kestrel M = migration w.v. = Winter visitor
Flora: A tree survey was undertaken at Little Harlington during January 2007. This has been appended as Appendix D.
Other flora beside the sports pitches includes bramble, hawthorn and silver birch creating an important scrub habitat.
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Recreational Facilities: 8 x Football Pitches 2 x Cricket Tables 1 x Pavilion, with Changing Facilities for men and women 1 x cafe
Present Use: Organised Football Games Organised Cricket Games Radio Controlled Model Aircraft One-off Sporting Tournaments
The pitches are used Saturdays (afternoon), Sundays (morning and some afternoon fixtures). Midweek evening fixtures are also permitted. The teams play a mixture of weekly and fortnightly with some sharing the pitches. Mainly the site is used for football and cricket however other sports are played there. Additional tournaments such as National Schools Lacrosse (Picture right) and World Ultimate Frisbee Tournament have also been held at the site as well as a large rounder's tournament. There is a charge for using the site which varies depending on the number of times a pitch is booked. The money raised is ploughed back into Hillingdon Borough Council.
Management Arrangements:
The site is managed by LBH Green Spaces in partnership with Fusion who manages the bookings for the site.
The general maintenance schedule is defined in the Grounds Maintenance Contract Specification and carried out by our grounds maintenance team.
The management plan for the site can be accessed online in the London Borough of Hillingdon web pages.
Site User Contacts:
Roxeth District Albion SriLankan Cavaliers Cricket Club Yeading Wanderers Little Harlington Model Flying Club BAA Heathrow Manor FC and Reality FC West Drayton Youth
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Map 1: Site Entrances
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Map 2: Site Facilities
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Map 3: Aerial Photograph
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3. Vision for Little Harlington Playing Fields
Our vision of Little Harlington playing fields is to promote the playing fields as a facility for passive and active recreation.
We seek to continue to enhance the playing fields so that they are appealing to the public and ensure that the site is easily accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.
Little Harlington playing fields is the most used sports facility in this part of the borough and we will continue to promote the area.
4. Site Aims and Objectives
4.1 Main Aims
1. Create and maintain a welcoming site 2. Ensure the site is healthy, safe and secure 3. Ensure the site is clean and well maintained 4. Ensure sustainable management of resources 5. Appropriate management of conservation and heritage features 6. Encourage community involvement 7. Ensure effective marketing of the facility 8. Implement effective management strategies
These aims, with their associated objectives, form the basis for the main management operations on the site and will provide a foundation for all projects in the coming Five - year period
4.2 How these aims are being met and objectives for the future
Create and maintain a welcoming site
There are four entrances to the playing fields all of which are situated off Sipson road. There are two pedestrian entrances and a main vehicle entrance, the fourth is locked and only used council staff. There are two car parks. One being an overflow car park which is used when necessary. All accesses and path networks are well kept and the equipment and facilities provided within the park (e.g. parking, changing room, pavilion) potentially contribute to making the site more welcoming through making visitors more comfortable. The overall impression for any member of the community approaching and entering the park should be positive and inviting. The signs are essential for welcoming people into the park. The signs are by the two main footpath entrances at each end and present a map and general site information as well as contact information. A welcome sign is situated above the height barrier to welcome cars driving in. The diversity of interest at the site is also a welcoming factor. There is of course plenty of area for recreation for all ages, all easily accessible. There is also an area suitable for conservation for those who enjoy wildlife, and trees/shrubs and other plants as well as areas where relaxation can take place, for example benches.
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Objectives
1. Secure and standardise all access points. 2. Maintain all boundary hedges and fences. 3. Maintain footpaths as necessary. 4. Install and maintain new interpretive signage. 5. Maintenance and Provision of site furniture where appropriate.
Ensure the site is healthy, safe and secure
Healthy
The site naturally lends itself to providing an essential service in improving the health of the community through football, cricket, walking and running and, as with most open spaces, the mental health of users may also be improved. The importance of the site for the locals, particularly for the sporting and youth communities, cannot be overstated. The site is well-used by the football league, home to matches every weekend in the season. Cricket is also proving a popular sport played at Little Harlington. It is also the base of the Little Harlington Model Flying Club; the site really is an indispensable asset for the enjoyment of the local community and therefore for their health. All accesses and path networks are generally DDA compliant. All park furniture is inspected by the Parks Officer team whenever they are on site and any necessary maintenance being prioritised.
Safe and Secure
The LBH park byelaws apply to the site and are enforced by the Parks Officer team or Council Enforcement Team when necessary. The presence of staff increases the security of the site. However, there are still incidences of anti-social behaviour, graffiti and littering, etc, as can be expected in an urban site (see next section for procedures involved). We have a mobile attendant who monitors and records who has played on Saturday and Sunday. Outside of his working timetable we have the usual presence of the Parks Officer, who provide the site with added security with their presence. LBH staff are reviewed through annual PADA (performance and development appraisal); ensuring staff are developing and are happy increases the likelihood that the site will be made welcoming by them. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974), the LBH is responsible for ensuring, so far as practical, the health and safety of employees, contractors and visitors whilst conducting all involved activities. As such, it is important to LBH and all staff and contractors are aware of their respective obligations. Details can be found from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or on LBH web pages. This includes a link to the guidelines for reporting incidents and RIDDOR, the HSE incident reporting scheme. Risk assessment policy states the procedures necessary to comply with the Act. However, in the future, it would be beneficial to brief a group of user groups or their chairpersons so that all users were aware of risks/issues, affecting health and safety, which could arise.
11 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Park Officer Team
The site rarely suffers from severe vandalism but low-level anti-social behaviour occurs from time to time. This generally includes graffiti, litter and broken glass caused by smashed bottles. The council’s Park Officers fall under the umbrella of the council’s Green Spaces Team, which manages the park. The Park Officers provide a park-keeping facility and enhance the security of the site and its visitors. The Team carries out checks so that any defects, such as graffiti, are dealt with quickly. In many cases the Park Officers will deal with urgent problems (such as broken glass) there and then. The Park Officers’ role includes: Undertaking regular visits to the site and reporting as necessary Basic maintenance of park equipment and facilities Non-specialist horticultural work and litter picking Regular inspection of playgrounds Identifying acts of vandalism and submitting reports. Investigating and gathering information on accidents etc. Responding quickly and effectively to public complaints. More serious anti-social behaviour is rare at Little Harlington but may need to be addressed by other agencies such as the police or the council’s Enforcement Team.
The Enforcement Team is responsible for dealing with a range of issues including noise, dog fouling, motor bikes, horse riding and fly tipping. Although this team is not on the premises on a regular basis, they are able to respond quickly to any reports that require their attention.
Objectives
1. Undertake regular cleaning regime of facilities. 2. Continue to implement Health and Safety policies. 3. Ensure users who use the park are aware of the relevant bylaws. 4. Continue to encourage users to value the playing fields.
Ensure the site is clean and well maintained
Little Harlington playing fields is a popular site. The playing fields are maintained by the borough’s ground maintenance team. All works are carried out inline with the detailed specification, which provides clear definition of the standards and quantity of work required. The Park Officers also contribute to the ongoing management of the site through routine jobs including inspections of the grounds. Although the present arrangements mean that the site is kept clean, tidy and presentable, further improvements can be made. The improvements will be centred on areas, which do not currently look as well maintained as the rest of the sports field. For example, it is understood that the sports pavilion may easily appear neglected if it is not well maintained and sometimes refurbished. The Pavilion is an asset to the site, and should be managed as such. Renovations to the exterior of the building in particular are high on the agenda at the site. In addition, an annual facilities review takes place, as identified in the management plan.
12 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______The site has a number of litterbins sited within the grounds which assist in maintaining the area in a clean condition. The litterbins are emptied on a twice a week basis in line with the specification. Littering outside of the bins is fairly uncommon. The guidelines as to allowing dogs within parks and open spaces are covered within the byelaws. The Park Officers team does, however, advise dog owners of their responsibility when visiting the park. In addition to this, Council staff are empowered to issue dog fouling penalty notices in line with the new Dog Control Orders. Dog bins are now in place on site so there is improved coverage of areas of the site. Graffiti and other vandalism is kept under control and is sparse since the site is quite isolated. There is an online reporting form for the public to report vandalism, or any other observed problem such as fallen trees, found through LBH’s web page. The Park Officers and the contractor will notice graffiti and attempt to clean it if necessary. Inside the pavilion, the regime in place and exercised for dealing with litter, cleanliness and any vandalism is the responsibility of LBH.
Objectives
1. Continue with current maintenance arrangements. 2. Enhance maintenance regimes where practical. 3. Encourage the continued involvement with users of the site. 4. Carry through a programme of improvements.
13 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Ensure sustainable management of resources
The London Borough of Hillingdon recognises and are aware of the need to minimise adverse impact on the environment, and agree with the principles of waste minimisation as defined in Local Agenda 21. LBH, therefore, actively pursues ways of delivering sustainable development and ensuring environmental sustainability is a vital part of this. The Council has signed up to the peat charter, and discourages the use of peat-based products in its horticultural work. Maintenance agreements discourage the use of pesticides and herbicides on the site, a stance that has environmental and financial benefits. Therefore, other methods of pest control are utilised, and, where possible, non-herbicidal weed control is carried out. Where it is absolutely necessary non-residual herbicide applications (e.g. glyphosate) will be used to reduce environmental impact. Also, where they are used, herbicides are applied as spot treatment rather than blanket sprayed, and all operatives are trained and certified for that particular operation. All green waste created is recycled off-site. This ensures waste minimisation. Tree trimmings are also recycled by the borough’s term tree maintenance contractor. All new plantings are being devised to limit the need for watering and we are looking at ways to minimise the use of carbon fuels. It is most important that we are seen to ‘practice what we preach’ and maintain high standards of sustainable management that demonstrate our awareness of environmental, conservation and resource issues. We therefore seek to actively research and promote new initiatives in the field of sustainable resource management.
The London Borough of Hillingdon has recently (Dec 2008) released a draft Climate Strategy for consultation. This can be found at: http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/15285/Climate- Change-Strategy---Adopted-16-April- 2009/pdf/Climate_Change_Strategy_2009-2012.pdf
This has been formally adopted, (April 2009). These policies will be embedded in site management processes.
Objectives
1. Continue to promote waste minimisation. 2. Plan long-term management for all features of the park. 3. Ensure efficient use of resources. 4. Develop and promote resource conservation and sustainable development. 5. Continue to minimise the application of pesticides. 6. Where possible encourage the use of physical / cultural forms of weed control. 7. Continue to recycle and re-use organic matter as mulches, soil ameliorants, and for other uses Appropriate management of conservation and heritage features
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An assessment of the trees on site has been undertaken to produce a schedule of works to return the tree stock to optimum condition. This tree survey is reported in Appendix D. The importance of green spaces for conservation of wildlife is understood, and they naturally provide habitats which are not available in the more urban immediate surroundings (i.e. where concrete predominates). Therefore, the playing fields, through their very nature of being a green space, are home to flora and fauna as detailed earlier. However, the site does not lend itself to wildlife easily, although there are corridors down edges which consist of scrub species such as bramble. These areas are probably more important than the grassy pitches. Consisting largely of trees, hedgerows and scrub they should be a haven for invertebrates and avifauna. An initial baseline ecological assessment has been undertaken to find out exactly what flora and fauna is present and to guide management operations. The heritage of the site mainly involves the pavilion building and the use of the site for football and cricket training and matches. This is conserved and the future maintenance planned for the pavilion will be a great step forward for the site.
Objectives
1. Conserve existing pitches & improve as necessary. 2. Conserve existing boundaries. 3. Maintain natural area at the rear of the pitches for nature conservation. 4. Initiate programme of phased tree maintenance in line with survey findings. 5. Undertake a baseline ecological assessment
Encourage community involvement
The LBH community strategy outlines seven goals for improving the quality of life of the community. Proposed actions taken towards achieving the goal ‘a clean and attractive borough’ include involving the community in improving standards of green spaces.
The site is important to all of its users (described earlier). As part of the Green Spaces Customer Charter (2007), the team promise a number of customer care standards and aim to meet some Service Specific Standards including involving users and the community in parks and in consultations about them. Therefore it is desirable at this site to initiate a user forum to encourage users to play an active role in developing the site, to meet their needs and expectations. The Customer Charter 2007 (shown right) can be found online:
All site users where contacted in 2010 with the view to setting up a Management Advisory Group, however the response was limited to the Flying Club and Cricket team. It was felt this was unbalanced as the main site use is football: Attempts to attract football teams will continue.
Objectives
1. Joint working with local user groups. 2. Further promotion of the site to schools, youth and community groups.
15 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Ensure effective marketing of the facility
Little Harlington is listed in the borough-wide, general leaflet on green spaces in the section detailing which sites have sports facilities, and exactly what they offer. The site can then be looked up on the map of green spaces provided by LBH so that people can find their way there. Both documents are available as hard copies from LBH Green Spaces.
The booklet is available for download at: http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/34019/A- Guide-to-Green-Spaces-in- Hillingdon/pdf/12287_Green_Spaces_listing_A4_ 3.pdf The map is available online at: http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/index.jsp?articleid=1 4365&nor=1 The site’s management plan will also be made available online through the council’s web pages, making it more accessible to all, and therefore a more useful document. In order to ensure that the local community and the general users are aware of what is going on at the Open Space, it is essential that a supply of information is available throughout the year. This information will be presented in a variety of different ways and will seek to encourage understanding and awareness of the Open Space itself and the wider remit of the Council. Marketing materials, along with photographs showing Front cover of the LBH Green Spaces booklet, in which community involvement, are given in the site is listed appendix D. LBH has decided not to produce site-specific leaflets. A general Green Spaces booklet is available. A marketing plan is being developed for all sites and will be available when required if requested. Sign boards placed at entrances to the site further enhance marketing, and any LBH staff on site are provided with a uniform identifying them as staff, making them available for the public to approach and query about any aspect of the site.
Additional Green Spaces marketing via the LBH Love Your Parks programme is ongoing.
16 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Objectives
1. Preparation of interpretative materials for the site
Implement effective management strategies
The site has been owned and therefore managed by what is now The London Borough of Hillingdon since the 1940s. However, until relatively recently the upkeep and management of the site was not well organised, due to a lack of funding for parks. Now, the LBH Green Spaces team is responsible for this and all other borough green spaces as outlined in the Site Summary. The staff structure (in Appendix A) outlines how this works and how management is kept effective. Park Officers are responsible for upkeep, and the ground maintenance team carries out most maintenance works. All are under charge of the Green Spaces Area Officer and ultimately the Area Manager. The following management operations outline the effective management plan in place for Little Harlington Playing Fields and, through them, we will carry out the effective management of the site. The site is ultimately playing fields and management of this aspect of it is also important. The mobile attendant helps the smooth running of the use of the ground, so that the user groups (who are integral to the site and are a measure of its success) remain satisfied. Funds generated from use of the pavilion are used to enhance the management of the site. The site will be further well managed through effective staff engagement and involvement. The on-site staff will be involved in the planning process as they are an integral component of the site and important for its upkeep. In the future, it is hoped that some involvement of the users, including the model club, will enhance management effectiveness as well. The Green Flag assessment process itself will also ensure further enhancement as it is a means for review of the management and will be used to encourage new thinking and to guide dynamic and adaptable management.
Objectives
1. Use sustainable management strategies and methods as described in section 6.2.4 2. Carry out regular reviews of all management operations and projects. 3. Identify potential sources of appropriate funding.
17 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______5. Management Objectives
hedge laying at Little Harlington Boot brushes which are well used
The following pages contain a brief project plan for each of the projects. These provide not only a description of the project, but the also the rationale behind it, when the works are likely to be carried out, by whom, and how much it is likely to cost.
Project: Grounds Maintenance Review
Summary: To comprehensively review the grounds maintenance on site
Rationale: To ensure the best possible grounds maintenance regime is implemented
Constraints: Limited officer time
Who will do Green Spaces Officer and Grounds Maintenance Manager it?
Budget Within existing resources Estimate:
Status Ongoing
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Project: Update Tree Survey
Summary: To update the survey of all the trees on the site, identifying which species are present and in what life stages the numbers of trees are at Rationale: To identify any trees needing work and plan ahead with tree works.
Constraints: Very limited officer time
Who will do Tree Management Officer it?
Budget Within existing resources Estimate:
Status Awaiting action by the Tree Officer
Project: Improve the park's furniture
Summary: Replace the dog bin, refurbish other litter bins and benches
Rationale: The furniture in the park is showing its age and needs to be smartened up or replaced.
Constraints: Nil
Who will do Council contractors it? Budget £4000 Estimate: Status Awaiting funding
19 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______5.1 Maintenance Plan
In addition to the regular maintenance of the site, as outlined in the Site Grounds Maintenance standards (see Appendix C), the following actions shall be undertaken on an ongoing basis;
These include:
Undertake regular cleaning regime to remove litter
Continue to implement Health and Safety Policies
Ensure that park users are aware of relevant bylaws
Continue to encourage park users to value the park
Enhance maintenance regimes where practical. Enhancements would depend upon renewal or review of contract specification and are dependent on funding and future usage of the site (for example, increased maintenance of pitches with increased use).
Continue to promote waste minimisation on sites
Continue to minimise the application of pesticides
Where possible encourage the use of cultural forms of weed control.
Continue to recycle and re-use organic matter generated on site for soil-ameliorants; mulches, etc
Develop and promote resource conservation and sustainable development
Produce a phased and costed schedule for tree works
Conserve existing walls and boundaries
Carry out regular reviews of all management operations and projects
Identify new sources of funding.
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6.Appendices.
21 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Appendix A
Introduction to the London Borough of Hillingdon
Hillingdon Council - Fact File
Description Hillingdon, situated on the western edge of Greater London, is the second largest London borough, covering a total area of about 42 square miles. It is just 14 miles from central London and bounded by the counties of Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Surrey and the London Boroughs of Hounslow, Ealing and Harrow.
Hillingdon is home to Heathrow, the world's busiest airport that caters for more than 60 million passengers a year.
The borough has eight leisure centers and 2 pools, 17 libraries, two theatres and over 170 green spaces including Ruislip Woods Natural Nature Reserve and Lido.
History The London Borough of Hillingdon was one of the 32 London Boroughs created by the London Government Act 1963. It was formed by the amalgamation of the Borough of Uxbridge and the Urban Districts of Hayes and Harlington, Ruislip/Northwood and Yiewsley and West Drayton. Geographically.
The new borough came into existence on April 1, 1965 when the new council started work.
As well as taking on the work of the four previous district authorities the council became responsible for local services such as education, libraries and the children's services. These had previously been run by the Middlesex County Council, which ceased to exist on April 1 1965.
Hillingdon's purpose-built Civic Centre opened its doors to the public in 1977. The council specified the use of traditional materials such as bricks and tiles while the sloping roofs were designed by the architects to reflect the style found in many of the borough's homes.
Workforce The council employs approximately 3,359 staff.
People Hillingdon has a population of 273,936 according to the 2011 Census. There is a growing proportion of young people, particularly of school age children.
Around 39.4% of the borough's residents are from ethnic minority groups (mainly Indian, Pakistani, other Asian and Black Caribbean).
There is an active voluntary sector, and a wide variety of community groups, tenants' and residents' associations.
Leisure
22 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Hillingdon is rich in wildlife and wildlife habitat including waterways, lakes, meadows and nature reserves. Ruislip Woods have been designated London's first National Nature Reserve, while nearby Ruislip Lido boasts 40 acres of water. The borough also offers a host of sporting activities, including six sports centers, many with newly refurbished gyms and four exceptional 18-hole golf courses, including a championship standard course at Stockley Park. The arts and entertainment thrive, with The Beck professional theatre in Hayes, the Compass Theatre, Ickenham, and various other venues. There is major new shopping centre, The Chimes in Uxbridge.
The Environmental and Consumer Protection Group The Environmental and Consumer Protection Group of the London Borough of Hillingdon has the responsibility for the Environmental Development and sustainability of Hillingdon’s Green Spaces. Amongst the other responsibilities it provides events and promotes outdoor activities in the Borough’s Parks and Other Green Spaces. The Green Spaces team oversees the management and development of all public green spaces within the London Borough of Hillingdon, which also includes parks, allotments, playing fields, woodlands and other green spaces.
Fig 1 Green Spaces Structure
23 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Appendix B
Site Marketing and Analysis Plan
Little Harlington Playing Fields lie in the Heathrow Villages ward, which includes Heathrow Airport, Harmondsworth village and Harlington residential areas.
Little Harlington Playing Fields is situated very near to Junction 4 of the M4 and the Stockley by- pass. Providing easy access to the A40, M40 and M25.
Ward residents’ profile (based on results of 2011 Census)
Gender: Males 6,399 Households: 4,704 Females 5,800 Total: 11,862
Age: 0 – 4 8.7% Households with dependant children: 34.4 % 5 – 15 12.1% 16 – 24 11.4% 25 – 59 54.2% 60- 74 9.1% 75 + 4.5%
Ethnic Group: White 50% Mixed 4.8% Asian / Asian British 33.1% Black / Black British 7.9% Arab or other Ethnic group 4.2%
Health of people: Very good/Good 84.7% People with a limiting lifetime illness 12.1%: Fairly Good 11.2% Very bad/Bad 4.1%
Analysis The ward profile of residents indicates that near 86.4% of residents are under the age of 60 and that almost 84% of residents indicated they are without a limiting lifetime illnesses. Little Harlington playing fields therefore has an important role as a place for healthy, active recreational activities.
However, with 13.6% of local residents over 60, seats need to be readily available to older people and people with disabilities and therefore a DDA compliant design is important.
24 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______50% of residents living in the ward describe their ethnic group as white. With 50% of local residents being from ethnic minorities. The largest of the ethnic minorities having an Asian ethnicity (33.1%). It is therefore important to ensure that all ethnic groups are made to feel welcome and included in actions relating to Little Harlington Playing Fields.
Marketing Segmentation The key market segments for Little Harlington Playing Fields appear to be:
a. Immediate neighbours b. People living within walking distance of the site. c. People living in the ward/further away from the site who have an existing/potential interest in sports and/or active recreational pursuits. d. Members of local and visiting sports teams.
Marketing methods to help enhance appreciation and appropriate use of Little Harlington Playing Fields
Regular liaison with interested parties re issues affecting Little Harlington playing fields.
Use of welcoming informative interpretation boards at key points on the site to promote the special interests of the site to regular and occasional users.
Ensure feedback can be obtained from potentially less mobile users and ensure their needs are met.
Promote Green Flag standards to users and neighbours to help raise the profile and understanding of Little Harlington playing fields.
Encourage articles to be written and published about Little Harlington playing fields – Green Spaces web page, Hillingdon People, other publications, as opportunities arise.
Ensure that the borough’s Green Spaces leaflet is kept up to date and available to the public at libraries and on the Green Spaces web page.
Encourage local schools to do projects relating to Little Harlington playing fields to aid understanding and appreciation and awareness locally.
Actively recruit new sporting teams and other recreational users to use the site.
A survey of users will be carried out annually to compare the profile of users with that of ward residents and to learn more about users’ interests and expectations of Little Harlington playing fields. This information will feed into discussions with the interested parties and the management plan reviewing process
25 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Appendix C
Site Grounds Maintenance Standards
Summary of Annual Frequencies
Maintenance of Grassed Areas
Monthly Frequency* Operation Annual Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Freq. Grass Cutting 16 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 Litter picking prior to grass 16 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 cutting Leaf Clearance 3 1 1 1 Trim grass edging to hard 16 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 standing and around obstacles Trim grass edging to walls, 16 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 fence lines Reform grass edging to all beds 1 1 Trim grass edging to all beds As reqd.
Shrub Bed Maintenance
Monthly Frequency* Operation Annual Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Freq. Weed and litter removal 8 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Hoeing of beds not previously 8 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 mulched Pruning of shrubs 1 1 Removal of reversion growth to As shrubs reqd.
Tree Maintenance
Monthly Frequency* Operation Annual Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Freq. Stake maintenance and removal 1 * * * * * to newly planted trees Weaning of 5-10 year old trees 1 * * * * * * * away from stakes Removal of suckers and 1 * * * * * epicormic shoots to all trees, but excluding Lime trees
26 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Hedge and Hedgerow Maintenance
Monthly Frequency* Operation Annual Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Freq. Pruning of Hornbeam Hedges, 1 * * removal of weeds and rubbish from base of hedge Pruning of Hawthorn Hedges, 1 1 removal of weeds and rubbish from base of hedge Pruning of Mixed Hedges, 1 * * * * removal of weeds and rubbish from base of hedge
Miscellaneous Works
Monthly Frequency* Operation Annual Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Freq. Clearance of all fence lines 1 1 Visual inspection of site and 104 features by Grounds Twice weekly for whole year Maintenance Officer Dog bin emptying 52 Once weekly for whole year Rubbish bin emptying 104 Twice weekly for whole year Litter picking and collection As reqd.
* Note – exact timing may vary according to local conditions
Frequencies are for guidance only and are subject to change seasonally and according to site.
Cricket Pitch Maintenance
General
The Contractor shall maintain a safe, level, pest and weed free playing surface throughout the period of and within the terms of the Contract. Unless otherwise agreed, the season will be from mid-April to mid-September. The Contractor shall mark out pitches on up to 35 occasions per table during each playing season, including scheduled games played during Bank Holidays. The Contractor will adjust relevant maintenance schedules to account for these games and for which no additional payment will be made in respect of this.
Match Fixtures
The Contractor shall ensure that wickets are in prepared as specified for all match fixtures including any non-scheduled matches.
The Authorised Officer shall give the Contractor 24 hours notice of match fixtures and cancellations and issue any appropriate instructions. Mowing - Cricket Table 27 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
The Contractor shall cut the table with a 20”-30” pedestrian operated cylinder mower having not less than five cutting blades.
The Contractor shall between April and September make twice weekly cuts of the table (Tuesday and Friday unless otherwise agreed with the Authorised Officer) at a height of 5mm- 6mm. Between October and March when weather conditions allow, the sward shall be maintained at a height of not less than 10mm and not more than 20mm. At all times the Contractor’s machines shall be adjusted and set to ensure there is no ribbing or bruising of the sward.
The table shall be cut in such a way that a striped effect is created along the direction of play.
Irrigation
The Contractor shall irrigate the table ensuring that water penetrates evenly to a minimum depth of 100mm-125mm. Watering shall be carried out between the months of April and September as and when required to ensure optimum conditions for sward growth and ground conditions suitable for cricket.
Irrigation of the table should not interfere with the fixtures. Care should be taken not to irrigate too near the day of a match that could affect the movement of the ball.
Scarification (Table)
The Contractor shall scarify the table using a pedestrian, motorised machine set to operate above soil profile. He shall be required to make two passes in order to remove stolons, thatch and dead matter. All arisings shall be brushed up, removed from site and disposed of to tip.
The Contractor shall carry out six operations at monthly intervals between April and September and only when ground conditions are suitable, i.e. avoid scarification operations when the sward is wet.
Preparation of Wicket
General
The Contractor shall prepare the wickets in the location as identified in a predetermined sequence of wicket as Diagram (a) below.
All operations shall be executed in the sequence shown and in an approved manner to wicket size 23m x 3m, parallel to corner pegs. These operations do not apply to artificial wickets.
28 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Diagram (a) (Diagrammatic only. Number of wickets per table will vary from site to site).
SEQUENCE OF PITCH PREPARATION TO ENSURE WICKET SEPARATION
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Scarification
Prior to mowing operations, the Contractor shall scarify the wicket using either hand implements or with two passes of pedestrian, motorised, set to operate above soil profile in order to remove stolons, thatch and dead matter. Brush up, remove and dispose of arisings.
Mowing The Contractor shall cut the wicket using a pedestrian operated cylinder mower having no less than 10 cutting blades on the cylinder and set to a cutting height of 5mm. The wicket shall be double mown along the same cut in order to avoid a “striped” effect. (This mowing operation is to be carried out on the last working day prior to the day of the match).
level profile. This operation to be carried out twice per week during the playing season (Monday and Thursday).
Marking
At the commencement of the cricket season, the table shall be “squared” and wickets cut and marked parallel to the corners.
The Contractor shall ensure that the wickets are correctly marked out by use of measuring tape and template. Crease markings to be marked with a brush, lines not to exceed 25mm width and in accordance with regulation dimensions.
The outfield boundary shall be marked in accordance with regulation dimensions and in respect of area available. The boundary line shall be marked using a pedestrian line marker. Wicket preparation, including boundary marking, shall be carried out as per specification prior to each match and on the last working day prior to each match.
29 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Post Match Wicket Renovation
On the first normal working day after each match, the Contractor shall carry out the following renovation operations on: Sweep up torn turf and debris and remove and dispose of arisings. Aerate wicket with hand fork.
Fork over hollows and reinstate to correct levels with an approved screened, sterilised medium Surrey Loam. Compact by treading to consolidate levels.
Rake surface to form a seedbed and sow an approved cricket grass seed mixture over prepared areas at a rate of 50g per square metre and rake in. (Roll seed areas with a hand roller and thoroughly irrigate wicket).
Autumn Renovation of Cricket Table
Scarify
At the end of the playing season, normally September, and in order to remove any build-up of thatch, dead matter, etc the Contractor shall carry out scarification in four directions, using an appropriate.
Depth of scarification shall relate to the extent of thatch cover and depth. Tine penetration should not normally exceed 9mm.
Mowing
After scarifying, the Contractor shall close mow the table using a pedestrian operated cylinder mower having not less than 10 cutting blades, to a cutting height of not less than 8mm.
Aeration
During the Autumn period, the Contractor shall carry out solid tine spiking, prior to top dressing, using a spiking with a tine pattern of 10cm deep at a minimum of 10cm centres. The Authorised Officer may direct the Contractor to hollow tine-selected areas of the table in lieu of solid tining.
Tapered root pruning tines should only be used as instructed by the Authorised Officer.
Turfing (Ends Only)
The Contractor shall repair cricket table ends using turfs in accordance with the Creation of Grass Areas from Turf specification.
All turfs shall be free of weeds, pests and disease and be suitable for cricket tables.
Overseeding
30 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
The Contractor shall overseed the cricket table, excluding the ends if turfed, with an approved seed mix, as set out in the Specification for Creation of Grass Areas from Seed, at the rate of 20 grams per m2 and prior to the application of top dressing.
Top Dressing
Once aeration operations have been carried out, the Contractor shall apply a bulky top dressing of a screened, sterilised medium Surrey Loam applied at the rate of 3kg per square metre. Where the table has been selectively hollow tined not less than 5kg per square metre.
Application may be by hand or powered equipment to ensure an even spread of the material is achieved.
Immediately after spreading the material, the top dressing shall be well “worked” into the surface of the table using a drag mat, hand lute or drag brush or a combination of all three methods. The aim being to fill the holes with the dressing and create a level playing surface.
During the top dressing operation the Authorised Officer shall, in the presence of the Contractor, acquire a 0.25 kilo sample bag of dressing from each table for possible analysis.
Outfield Mowing
The Contractor shall mow the cricket outfield-using cylinder mowing equipment with not less than six blades. During the playing season, the grass shall be cut weekly.
Football Pitch Maintenance
General
Prior to the beginning of the football season in September the Contractor shall set out and mark all pitches as required.
Marking
The size of the pitches shall conform to the Football Association rules.
The positioning of pitches shall be approved by the Authorised Officer.
The Contractor shall not automatically follow the lines of the previous season’s markings, if still visible, but refer to the annual site plan.
Before marking, the Contractor shall ‘mow the lines’ and marking shall be undertaken using an approved non-toxic white lining material.
Remarking
31 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______The Contractor shall remark the pitches on up to 35 occasions per pitch during the playing season.
Marking shall normally be carried out weekly on a day agreed with the Authorised Officer.
Marking shall be undertaken using an approved non-toxic white lining material.
The Contractor shall ensure that pitch measurements remain accurate during the marking process throughout the season and all lines are clear and true in accordance with the annual site plan and Specification.
During the playing season, the Contractor shall ensure that all lines are swept clear of accumulated debris allowing for accurate and lasting marking.
Mowing of Lines
The Contractor shall allow for the cutting out of lines to the specified height on a monthly basis during the playing season immediately prior to the initial mark or the remarking before a game.
The lines shall be cut one width wide using a cylinder or rotary mower. The height shall not exceed 30mm between cuts. Where cut with a cylinder mower, the lines shall be swept clear.
Erection and Removal of Goal Posts
Prior to the start of each football season the Contractor shall collect and erect all football posts into their respective positions.
At the finish of each playing season all football posts shall be dismantled and transported by the Contractor to a safe and secure storage area in readiness for the following season.
During the process of erecting, dismantling and storage of posts, care shall be exercised by the Contractor.
While the posts are erected, the Contractor shall inspect them weekly to ensure that they are safe and secure. Any damage shall be reported to the Authorised Officer by the next working day.
The Contractor shall inform the Authorised Officer of the storage area and the Authorised Officer may request the inspection of the storage site.
Painting Posts
During the period between seasons, the Contractor shall paint all football posts. Before painting, each post shall be thoroughly scraped and washed to remove dirt, rust, grease, string, adhesive tape or similar.
Posts shall be brushed by wire brush or similar to remove stubborn dirt, rust, loose paint, etc. Each post shall receive an application of suitable undercoat and when ready, a finishing coat of white gloss.
Painting shall be carried out in dry weather conditions or under cover.
32 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
Post Sockets
In good time before the commencement of the playing season, the Contractor shall inspect all post sockets for signs of damage, blockage or instability.
Where sockets indicate a likelihood of failing during the playing season, these shall be replaced and the grass surrounds reinstated.
At the finish of the playing season following removal of the posts, the sockets shall be capped.
The Contractor shall ensure that the sockets lie 25mm below surrounding levels and, if necessary, the Contractor shall reinstate to achieve this.
Harrowing
During the playing season, the Contractor shall harrow all football pitches, on a monthly basis, to maintain surface levels.
The harrowing shall be carried out in one pass in one direction longitudinally.
Spiking/Slitting
The Contractor shall aerate all rugby and football pitches using 100mm-150mm spikes or solid tines on seven occasions evenly spaced throughout the playing season as conditions allow.
In the event of puddles forming in goalmouths and centre circles and unless there is a serious drainage problem, the Contractor shall hand spike these areas of pitches using a digging fork inserted to a depth of 100mm at 150mm intervals. The fork to be removed without causing major disturbance to the playing surface.
Sanding of Goal Areas
The Contractor shall apply Leighton Buzzard 11 sand on goal areas between September and April and as directed by the Authorised Officer. The sand shall be lime free with no fines, particle sizes within the range 0.5mm to 1mm.
Renovation
The Contractor shall carry out renovation of the football goalmouth, centre circle and penalty box areas and any other areas as instructed by the Authorised Officer annually. This renovation work shall be carried out in April in accordance with either the Grass Seed or Turf Specification.
Contravation
Following the playing season, the Contractor shall contravate all football and rugby pitches. Grass seed shall be applied during contravation. Grass seed mixture shall be in accordance with recommendations detailed in the Grass Seed Specification.
33 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Contravation shall be carried out in two passes crossing diagonally.
Grass Cutting
Grass shall be cut in accordance with the general grass cutting specification and may include, if instructed by the Authorised Officer, some cutting during the winter period if weather conditions allow. All wheeled grass maintenance machinery shall be fitted with grassland tyres.
Pitch Preparation
Once each month during the playing season, the Contractor shall inspect all football and rugby pitches. On each inspection any stones, litter or debris found on the pitches shall be collected and removed from site to tip.
At any time during any maintenance/inspection visit glass or other harmful debris is seen on the grass area this is to be removed immediately.
Post Match/Game Inspections and Renovations
The Contractor shall inspect Parks and Open Spaces pitches after each game/match or at the beginning of the working week after weekends, replacing divots, pushing back heel marks and filling in any depressions with an approved material, firming up and reseeding as necessary.
This operation should only be carried out when weather conditions are suitable. In respect of seed sowing, this should only be undertaken when there is a good chance of germination within three weeks.
All soils used shall be to BS 3882 and seed to the approved specification for the type of playing surface.
Erection of New Goalposts and Sockets
The Contractor may be required, when instructed by the Authorised Officer, to supply and erect goalposts and sockets on a defined site.
34 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Appendix D
Site Tree Survey
Tree Survey – Little Harlington Playing Field - Harlington
Introduction
A tree survey was undertaken at Little Harlington during January 2007. The survey was undertaken by Colin Chambers (Tree Officer LBH)
Methodology
The survey was conducted with reference to BS 7370: Part 1: 1991 with additional information and works scheduling. The position of each tree is marked and numbered on a map of Little Harlington Playing Field.
Species (English)
Diameter at 1.5m (DBH, 2-6, banded in 20cm units, 1 – tree at stake)
Height (metres)
Crown spread (metres)
Life (see notes)
Work Required
Urgency (U – urgent, 1/2/3 - undertake within 1/2/3 years)
Cost
Comments
35 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Life
The purpose of ‘Life’ is with the application of a single number, to be able to indicate how far a tree is through its life in any given location. The assessment will cut across species, size, location, and condition; will ultimately give a projection of tree cover for a given site for the present, looking ahead to the medium term and help with management priorities.
For example – 15 year old tree established tree, with good form and health, in the middle of a park would attract a ‘2’ – ‘vigorous, not effecting its surroundings, liable to make a mature tree’. However take exactly the same tree that has seeded itself in next to an old wall in a conservation area, would attract a ‘5’ – ‘having an adverse effect on its surroundings, retain only in the short term’.
It is a reasonable expectation that ‘Life 3’ will make up the main body of tree cover in any given area. Young and semi mature trees at ‘Life 1 & 2’ are the future ‘3s’ while ‘Life 4 & 5’ are towards the other end of their lives with moderate to severe problems identified.
Using the 1- 6 scoring method the entire tree cover of an area can be assessed.
1 – Young tree
Under ten years old, not established, still vulnerable
2 – Semi- mature tree
Should go on to make a mature tree, has no visible defects or conditions
Not being affected by environmental conditions either natural or human caused
Not affecting or ever likely to, any structures, surfaces or services
Is a good choice for the site, long term retention
3 – Semi mature or mature tree
Has minor structural defects, non serious condition, has reached maturity or,
Being slightly affected by environmental conditions either natural or human caused or,
Beginning to slightly affect either structures, surfaces or services
Is good choice for the site, medium to long term retention
36 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______4 - Semi mature or mature tree
Has moderate structural defect or notable condition or
Being moderately affected by environmental conditions either natural or human caused or
Beginning to moderately affect either structures, surfaces or services
Is only a fair choice for the site, short to medium term retention
5 - Semi mature or mature tree
Has serious structural defect or condition or
Being seriously affected by environmental conditions either natural or human caused or
Beginning to seriously affecting either structures, surfaces or services
Is poor choice for the site, short term retention
6 – Semi mature or mature tree
Dead or collapse foreseeable, remove without delay
Results
Little Harlington Playing Field is by its nature maintained as open land with trees situated almost entirely on its boundaries. While the appearance of the field it is rather bleak and open, the number of pitches within the area precludes any planting to divide up and soften the area. The field corner planting opportunities have already been addressed by the planted conservation areas.
The percentage of trees in ‘Life 2’ category significantly exceeds the ‘model percentage’. The two woodland planting strips (C1 & C3) on the east and west sides make up the high ‘Life 2’ percentage, are both established and will go on to form wooded strips of oak, ash, native cherry and field maple. The presence of heavy bramble particularly in C3 contrasts with the close mown grass. Since there has been a high survival rate of trees the bramble is no threat and offers some protection to the young trees. Additionally, bramble provides ecological value to an otherwise barren site; the temptation to remove it should therefore be avoided.
The buildings are unattractive and further group planting following on from the success of G4 would be helpful. A further planting opportunity exists by extending the roadside line that currently stops at T15.
Within the constraints already noted, tree cover on this site is already assured in the long term.
# Species DBH Height Spread Life Work Urgency Cost Notes 1 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 9 4 3 2 Blue Colorado Spruce 2 4 2 3 37 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______3 Silver Birch 3 8 4 3 4 Blue Colorado Spruce 2 4 2 4 5 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 8 5 3 6 Blue Colorado Spruce 2 4 2 3 7 Silver Birch 3 5 3 4 8 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 9 4 3 9 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 9 4 3 10 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 9 4 3 Crown lift to give clearance 11 Native Cherry (Plena) 4 9 8 3 to traffic and pedestrians 12 Pyramidal Hornbeam 3 10 4 3 13 Pyramidal Hornbeam 4 10 8 3 Crown lift 14 Ornamental Apple 3 5 5 3 Branches near face level to 2.5m 15 Blue Colorado Spruce 3 5 2 3 Crown Moderate structural 16 Horse Chestnut 4 11 6 4 reduce, 50 1 193.3 defects %
Remove litter, 60 No trees is an 2 x 60 planting C1 Mixed woodland 2 1 2 1 300 estimate of final number No products, of mature trees mend fence G2 Mixed Poplar 4 x 47 18 8 3 Remove litter, 70 No trees is an 2 x 70 planting C3 Mixed woodland 2 1 2 1 300 estimate of final number No products, of mature trees mend fences Remove stakes, fit G4 Common Hornbeam 5 2 1 1 1 10 mower guards
Plant 3 No P1 Plant new Prunus 1 567 accolade
Plant 3 No P2 Plant new 1 600 Keaki
Plant 3 No P3 Plant new 1 573 Field Maple
Plant 12 No P4 Plant new 2 2400 Pyramidal hornbeam
38 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
39 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______
Little Harlington Playing Field - Tree Life Analysis
70
60
50
40 Percentage 30
20
10
0 Life 1 Ideal 1 Life 2 Ideal 2 Life 3 Ideal 3 Life 4 Ideal 4 Life 5 Expected Life 6 Expected 5 6
Life 1 Ideal 1 Life 2 Ideal 2 Life 3 Ideal 3 Life 4 Ideal 4 Life 5 Expected 5 Life 6 Expected 6 2.5 14 66 15 30 50 1.5 12 0 8 0 1
40 Little Harlington Playing Fields Management Plan 2015 - 2020 ______Appendix E
Council Plan: Commitment to Green Flag Awards
LBH’s commitment to achieving many Green Flag sites is reinforced in the Council Plan 2007-2010
41