OPEN SPACES 1666 OPEN SPACES COMMITTEE: 4th April, 1961. Present: The Deputy Mayor (Councillor Macaulay); Aldermen Collins, Gange, J.P., and Mrs. Potts, M.B.E.; Councillors Kingett (in the Chair), Atherton, Barson, J.P., Mrs. Edwards, Harrison, Shaw, Spurway and Tackley. Co-opted Statutory Members present for Allotments matters only: Messrs. Holdaway, Ward and Wood.

PART I.—RECOMMENDATIONS. RECOMMENDATION I: Proposed Acquisition of Land at Holly Avenue, Edgware: Queensbury Ward. Following an investigation into the need for allotments in the eastern part of the Borough, which showed a continuing demand for plots in excess of permanent sites available, the Council (resolution 1813: 13th November, 1959) agreed, in principle, subject to Ministerial consents and on the basis of the District Valuer's report, to purchase as statutory allotments the former air raid shelter site approached between 8/10, Holly Avenue, Edgware, comprising 0-7 of an acre. Your Committee are informed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food that, as the cost of clearing the air raid shelters from the land is estimated to be in the region of £3,000, and compensation payable under section 2 (1) (&) of the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, would, by virtue of the ceiling pro­ visions of the Requisitioned Land and War Works Act, 1945, be limited to £1,000, they could not support any claim for compensation consequent upon the proposed purchase of the land as permanent allotments. In the circum­ stances, your Committee submit the following recommendation. Resolved to RECOMMEND: That, in the light of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food's decision that they could not support any application for compensation on the acquisition of the former air raid shelter site, approached between 8/10, Holly Avenue, Edgware, the Council hereby rescind resolution 1813 (13th November, 1959), agreeing to the principle of purchasing the land as statutory allotments; and, as the land is defined as Public Open Space in the Middlesex County Development Plan, the Open Spaces Committee be here­ by authorised to re-examine this matter, in consultation with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, with a view to the submission of a further report upon the financial and other implications of acquiring the site as open space.

RECOMMENDATION II: Preliminary Deep Borings Upon Site of Proposed Sports Stadium at former Wealdstone Sewage Farm (now Kenton Recreation Ground): Kenton Ward. Your Committee have considered preliminary measures for ascertaining the stability and physical condition of the tipped material at the former Weald- stone Sewage Farm, now incorporated in Kenton Recreation Ground, the site of which is proposed to be used for building an athletics and sports stadium. Some years ago, after the tipping of household refuse had been completed, a number of pits were excavated, revealing that decomposition had not by then occurred a few feet below surface level. 1667 OPEN SPACES Subsequent infilling of excavated material, demolition waste, etc., from a variety of sources, took place on the site, in some places, to an additional depth of 10 feet. Your Committee propose that the athletics facilities should be of a high standard, with permanent changing accommodation, as soon as the land is fit for the purpose. Your Committee were advised that the suitability of the ground for development could be reliably ascertained by taking deep borings, and your Committee invited tenders therefor, and submit the following recom­ mendation. Resolved to RECOMMEND: (1) That the Council hereby accept the Schedule Rate of Prices of Le Grand Adsco Ltd., of Southall (being the lowest), for making deep borings, at an estimated cost of £275, at the former Wealdstone Sewage Farm, now incorporated in Kenton Recreation Ground, to ascertain the suitability of the ground, formed by the tipping of refuse, for laying out athletics and sports facilities and constructing permanent buildings in connection there­ with. (2) That the Town Clerk be authorised to seal a contract accordingly. (Note: The Finance Committee recommend that this expenditure be met from the Capital Fund.) RECOMMENDATION ffl: The Cedars Open Space, Harrow Weald Ward: Sale of Frontage Land for Highways Improvements at Uxbridge Road. Your Committee have considered, and are in agreement with a proposal of Middlesex County Council that 0-23 acres of the Cedars Open Space, fronting Uxbridge Road, should be appropriated for road-widening purposes. In anti­ cipation of the land being required for this purpose, the line of chain link fencing now surrounding the Cedars excludes the land required for road im­ provement, with the result that no cost in removing and re-erecting the fence will be incurred. The District Valuer has assessed the freehold interest in the land at £20. Resolved to RECOMMEND: (1) That, subject to the Minister of Housing and Local Government's consent, the Council agree to sell to Middlesex County Council 0-23 acres, or thereabouts (as shown coloured pink on the plan now submitted, and signed, by the Borough Engineer), fronting Uxbridge Road at the Cedars Open Space, for highways purposes. (2) That the Town Clerk be authorised to prepare and seal documents.

PART H.—MINUTES. 2552. Minutes: RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting of 21st February, 1961, having been circulated, be taken as read and signed as a true record. ALLOTMENTS MATTERS. 2553. Closing of Requisitioned Allotments Account: The Borough Treas­ urer reported that the last requisitioned allotments site was released during the year ended 31st March, 1959, and, after protracted negotiations, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food had met, in full, the £3,215 9s. 3d. deficiency on the operation of the Requisitioned Allotments Account, maintained pursuant to Defence Regulation 51. OPEN SPACES 1668 Of this sum, a total of £636 3s. lid. was credited to the Revenue Accounts (Allotments) over several years, and the net additional income of £2,579 5s. 4d. will accrue to the Allotments Revenue Account for 1960/61, and be treated as special income. RESOLVED: That the report be received with satisfaction; and that the Finance Committee be informed accordingly. 2554. Allotments Statistics: RESOLVED: That the Committee receive the Borough Engineer's report upon the present position of Council allotments. 2555. Harrow Horticultural Show, 1961: The Town Clerk submitted a letter (15th March, 1961) from the Secretary of the Show Committee, forwarding copy minutes of the Show Committee meeting of 15th February, 1961, and a Schedule of Classes settled by the Show Committee's Schedule Sub-Com­ mittee. The Show Committee have decided to call the Show the " Borough of Harrow Show " and hoped this will meet with the Council's approval, as the Open Spaces Committee had adopted a sugestion of a joint meeting of repre­ sentatives of the Show Committee and the Council that it should be, " The Harrow Horticultural Show, 1961 (under the auspices of the Council of the Borough of Harrow "). The Council were also asked to present a Borough trophy. The Town Clerk reported that the Highways and Cleansing Committee have agreed to the event being publicised upon the Council's vehicles. RESOLVED: That the Show Committee (a) be thanked for the Schedule of Classes upon which the Open Spaces Committee make no comments; (b) be informed that the Open Spaces Committee would have preferred to have been consulted upon the change in the name, which might be construed as implying complete Corporation responsibility for the Show, whereas, the Council are supporting it to the extent of (i) encouragement and sponsorship, (ii) by granting the use of Headstone Manor, and (iii) by practical assistance in various forms, but are not responsible for organising the Show, and their financial responsibility is limited to a contribution of £100, in the event of a deficit; and (c) that, whilst the Open Spaces Committee regret they have no power in law to present a trophy, they are happy to look into the arrange­ ments to be made for the presentation of one Show trophy. 2556. Temporary Allotments in Stanmore North Ward: Resolution 2371 (25th October, 1960): The Committee deferred action upon the report of the Special Sub-Committee re Allotments Sites as to the site at Lake Grove (2-5 acres: 21 plots—9 let), to enable the local Allotments Associations to express their views upon whether plot-holders at the Nelson Road (0-65 acres: 9 plots—9 let); Wolverton Road (0-18 acres: 3 plots—3 let) and Beatty Road (0-5 acres: 7 plots—5 let), would be willing to transfer to Lake Grove, in the event of the Nelson Road, etc., land being required for housing purposes. The Town Clerk reported that Harrow Weald and District Allotment and Garden Association and the Belmont and District Allotment Association have intimated that, whilst none of the plot-holders on the sites are known to be members of the Associations, it seems advisable, as the majority of the plots on the sites are let and it is not a short distance from these to the Lake Grove site, to permit the temporary plot-holders at Nelson Road, Wolverton Road and Beatty Road to remain undisturbed as long as possible. 1669 OPEN SPACES

The recommendation of the Special Sub-Committee re Allotments Sites (which was deferred) was that consideration should be given to the Council appropriating the Lake Grove site for permanent allotments, and for its re­ definition in County Development Plan. The Middlesex County Council contributed towards the acquisition of that land and their approval would be required to the proposal. The Borough Engineer reported that the Housing Committee had in­ structed hun to investigate and report upon the use of the housing land for that purpose. RESOLVED: That the plot-holders on the Nelson Road, Wolverton Road and Beatty Road temporary allotments sites be informed of the Housing Committee's action, be given particulars of available suitable permanent allotments, and asked whether they would be willing to transfer to other permanent plots, in the event of their being requested to relinquish their present plots. 2557. Newton Park East Temporary Allotments, Roxeth Ward: Resolution 2512 (21st February, 1961): RESOLVED: That the Committee receive the Town Clerk's report that Notices to Quit served upon five plot-holders at this site have been withdrawn, and the present plot-holders be informed that they may remain, but the allotments will not be re-let. 2558. Service of Co-Opted Member: RESOLVED: That the Committee extend their appreciation of, and warm congratulations to, Mr. Holdaway upon his completing 21 years' valuable service as a Co-opted Member of the Allot­ ments Committee; and that the terms of this resolution be conveyed by the Town Clerk to the South Harrow and Roxeth Allotment Holders' Associ­ ation who nominate Mr. Holdaway for membership of the Committee. 2559. Thanks to Chairman: RESOLVED: That the Committee express their appreciation of the most able and efficient manner in which their Chairman (Councillor Kingett) has conducted the allotments business of the Committee during the past year. The Chairman, in acknowledgment, warmly thanked the Members (and particularly the Co-opted Members) for their devoted ser­ vice and whole-hearted co-operation.

OPEN SPACES MATTERS. 2560. Proposed Acquisition of Air Raid Shelter Site at Holly Avenue, Edgware, Queensbury Ward: RESOLVED: That, subject to the adoption by the Council of recommendation I (Proposed Acquisition of Land at Holly Avenue, Edgware) of this report, the Borough Engineer be instructed to re­ port fully, with proposals and estimates, for the development of this site as open space. 2561. Coaching at Public Tennis Courts: The Borough Engineer submitted an application by the Central Council of Physical Recreation for the free use of a tennis court, or courts, in various parts of the Borough, for one evening a week for six weeks, in order to set up coaching centres for members of the general public, particularly young people and beginners, using public tennis courts. The Central Council, in conjunction with the Middlesex Lawn Tennis Association, are anxious to raise lawn tennis standards. RESOLVED: That the application be hereby granted, subject (i) to the use of the courts being at all times to the satisfaction of the Parks Superintend- OPEN SPACES 1670 ent; (ii) to the selected coaching centre courts being so located as not to interfere with public play; and (iii) to details of the Central Council's pilot tennis coaching schemes held elsewhere in Middlesex, during 1960, being submitted to the Council. 2562. Proposed List of Professional Swimming Instructors: By Council resolution 2001 (II) (22nd July, 1960), the Council introduced the scheme for swimming instruction from 1st May, 1961, at the Corporation's open air swimming baths at Charles Crescent, Harrow, and Christchurch Avenue, Wealdstone. An advertisement was inserted in the Harrow Observer in February, 1961, inviting applications from suitably qualified instructors for inclusion in the approved list. Particulars were sent to two interested persons, but no appli­ cations have been received so far. RESOLVED: That the report be received; and that the Committee consider, at their next meeting, any applications subsequently received from the Corporation's baths staff, to give swimming instruction at the open air swimming baths. 2563. Catering at West Harrow Recreation Ground: Resolution 2521 (21st February, 1961): In connection with the grant to the Billmont Caterers of permission to retail refreshments from a mobile canteen in this Recreation Ground for an experimental period of one year ending 30th April, 1962, the Chairman sought confirmation of his action in granting their request to com­ mence selling refreshments on 25th March instead of 1st May, 1961, on payment of an additional fee of £1 5s. RESOLVED: That the action of the Chairman be hereby approved and con­ firmed. 2564. Commencement of Use at Sports Facilities, 1961: RESOLVED: That, subject to the Borough Engineer being satisfied that the ground conditions permit, the use (a) of the bowling greens in the Corporation's Recreation Grounds and Parks, shall commence on 22nd April, 1961; and (b) of other sports facilities, on 29th April, 1961, except on those grounds where football pitches are already let on that date. 2565. Bowls Facilities at West Harrow Recreation Ground: RESOLVED: That the Committee receive a letter from the West Harrow Bowling Club, conveying their grateful appreciation of the Council for providing a sink, with hot and cold water, in the bowls pavilion in the Recreation Ground. 2566. Application for Exclusive Sunday Use of Stanmore Recreation Ground: The Borough Engineer submitted an application, by the Stanmore and Canons Park Synagogue Parents' Association, for the exclusive use of the Recreation Ground on either Sunday, llth, 18th, or 25th June, 1961, from 9 a.m. to approximately 7 p.m., for a Sports Day and Fete, for children of their Sunday religious classes. The Association also request permission to use " loud speakers." RESOLVED: That the Association be informed that it is not the policy of the Council to grant the exclusive use of the whole of a Recreation Ground, or allow the use of " loud speakers " therein^but the Committee invite the Association to indicate what part of Stanmore)Recreation Ground might be suitable for their fete. ^^I»Z----- ^T7O^/^)_ ^ 1671 OPEN SPACES 2567. Exclusive Use of Swimming Bath: RESOLVED: That the Committee hereby grant, upon payment of a fee of two guineas, and subject to the Corporation being fully indemnified, in terms approved by the Town Clerk, an application by the Harrow Town District Girl Guides, for the exclusive use of one of the Corporation's Swimming Baths, for a Swimming Gala, on 13th July, 1961, from 7 p.m., or such other date as may be agreed by the Borough Engineer. 2568. Hire of Chairs: RESOLVED: That the Committee grant, free of charge, an application by the League of Friends of Edgware General Hospital for the loan of 200 chairs, in connection with their Annual Garden Fete, on 17th June, 1961, subject to the League bearing the transport charges. 2569. Floral Decorations: RESOLVED: That the Committee receive the Borough Engineer's report that floral decorations were supplied to the Harrow Weald County Grammar School on 23rd/25th February, 1961 (in­ clusive), for £1. 2570. Request for Hockey Facilities: Resolution 1171 (llth June, 1957): The Committee offered the Harrow Hockey Club (who did not accept) the seasonal use of part of Roxbourne Park, with permission to erect, on con­ ditions, for a period not exceeding five years, temporary dressing accommodation. The Borough Engineer submitted an application by the Harrow Hockey Club for the exclusive seasonal use of three hockey pitches at one of the public open spaces, as the arrangements under which they use two pitches upon private ground at Stanmore Common is terminating and they would have to consider entering into a long term agreement to continue the use of these pitches. The Hockey Club had suggested that they be allocated all the pitches to be provided at Queensbury Park, with the exclusive use of the pavilion, pro­ vision for the commencement of the construction of which is made in the Capital Estimates for 1961/62. The proposed layout of Queensbury Park provides for one football, and one hockey pitch, and the Borough Engineer reported that it would not be possible to provide more than two regulation size hockey pitches thereon. He also reported that hockey pitches are pro­ vided at Harrow Weald, Headstone Manor, Kenton (2), Roxbourne Park and West Harrow, and further hockey pitches could only be provided by converting pitches at present used for football, etc. RESOLVED: That, because the granting of the application for the use of the whole playing space at Queensbury Park by the Harrow Hockey Club would deprive the Queensbury area of a much needed football pitch, the Committee must refuse their application. 2571. Land Behind Trescoe Gardens Adjoining Roxbourne Park, Roxbourne Ward: The Borough Engineer submitted an application by the owner/ occupier of 16, Trescoe Gardens, for permission to make a gate in the rear fence of his property abutting this Park on the eastern side of Yeading Brook. RESOLVED: That the Town Clerk be instructed (a) to inform the applicant that the Committee are unable to grant him a right of access from his prop­ erty to Roxbourne Park, and so make no comment upon his proposal to construct a gate in his own fence; and (b) to write to the other owner/ occupiers of properties adjoining the Park who have constructed gates in OPEN SPACES 1672 their back garden fences that they shall not be deemed to establish private rights of access to this public open space; and that the Corporation's legal position must be safeguarded.

2572. Undeveloped Land Behind Cypress Road, Harrow Weald Ward: Resolution 2489 (10th January, 1961): RESOLVED: That the Committee take no action upon a suggestion by the County Valuer, to let the 0-4 acres (re­ served for a nursery school) behind Cypress Road, to the Corporation upon a six months' tenancy, for use as a playground.

2573. Montesole Playing Fields: Pinner North and Hatch End Ward: Sale of Open Spaces Frontage Land for Highways Improvement: Council Resolution 2137 (10th March, 1961): RESOLVED: That the Chairman, in consultation with the Town Clerk, be hereby authorised to settle the date, prior to completion of the sale, when Middlesex County Council may be permitted to enter this land for the purposes of commencing road-widening works. 2574. Grave No. B/558, Pinner Road Cemetery, Pinner: RESOLVED: That, whilst the Committee do not grant an application for permission to incorpor­ ate, contrary to the Council's Cemetery Regulations, gates of wrought iron as a proposed memorial on the grave of A. Garveigh, deceased, in this Ceme­ tery, the applicant be informed that the Committee are prepared favourably to consider a revised application, substituting an approved material for wrought iron. 2575. Proposed Drainage to Cricket Pavilion at Shaftesbury Playing Fields: Resolution 2172 (5th April, 1960): The Hatch End Cricket Club had agreed to pay part of the cost of installing lighting in the car park in Shaftesbury Playing Fields, but as repairs to the Club's pavilion had to be postponed, pending the installation of the electricity supply to the pavilion, the Com­ mittee, on the undertaking of the Club to pay a proportion of the car park lighting, gave permission for laying electricity cable to the pavilion. The Club are also prepared to make a contribution towards the cost of a foul drain from the pavilion. The Borough Engineer now reports that the esti­ mated cost of laying the proposed foul drain to the pavilion is £475, towards which the Club are willing to contribute £100. The Borough En­ gineer also reports complaints from the occupiers of neighbouring premises of offensive smells from the use by Club visitors of existing huts as lavatories. RESOLVED: That the Committee regret they are unable to accept the proposed contribution by the Hatch End Cricket Club towards the cost of a foul drain from the pavilion; and that, as public conveniences are already provided in the playing fields, the Club be requested to remove the huts immediately and so abate the nuisance.

2576. Appropriation of 2 72 Acres at Sylvia Avenue, Hatch End: By resolu­ tion 1974 (VII) (24th June, 1960), the Council agreed, pursuant to section 163 of the Local Government Act, 1933, and section 23 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1959, on the recommendation of the General Pur­ poses Committee, formally to appropriate this land as open space. The Town Clerk submitted a letter from the District Valuer, setting out his preliminary valuation for appropriation purposes, in the light of the in­ formal views of the Middlesex County Planning Officer as to the 1673 OPEN SPACES

development which might be specified in a Certificate under section 5 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1959. RESOLVED: That consideration of the District Valuer's preliminary valuation be deferred, and that the Town Clerk be instructed to ask Middle­ sex County Council to agree to contribute towards the appropriation of this land as open space, on the basis of the price at which the land was conveyed to the Council, in 1958, pursuant to the Purchase Notice served upon the Corporation under section 19 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947. 2577. Vehicular Access to Canons Park: Resolution 2538 (21st February, 1961): Pursuant to Committee instructions, the Solicitors for the North London Collegiate School were informed that, having regard to the danger to the public enjoying the Park, particularly children, and the narrowness of the bridge from Howberry Road over the railway crossing the Park, the Committee could not authorise parents and others transporting children to and from the School to drive into the Park. The Committee thought it not unreasonable that children be brought to the entrance hi Howberry Road, from which they could be expected to make their way on foot. Alternatively, the attention of parents should be drawn to the 40-foot-wide road from Canons Drive, and the path which is also available from Dalkeith Grove. The Town Clerk reported that the Governors of the North London Collegiate School had, with their Solicitors' concurrence, requested an inter­ view and the Chairman (Councillor Kingett), with the Town Clerk, and other officers, very willingly agreed to meet the Chairman and the Vice-Chairman of the School Governors, with the Headmistress, and the School Bursar, on 22nd March, 1961, when an informal discussion took place. The difficulties following the decision to prevent parents driving children across the Park to the School were fully developed. The School Gardener, who lives in the cottage in the Park, was also similarly prevented from using his car, as were his medical practitioner, and milkman, etc. The School Governors were reminded of the complaints received by the Council about the danger to users, particularly children, of the Park from cars conveying children to and from the School, and from the congestion in Howberry Road, and they were assured of the Open Spaces Committee's desire to co-operate, as far as practicable, in easing the School's difficulties. In view of the position of the School Gardener and his family, the Chair­ man agreed that they, and essential services, e.g. a medical attendant, should be permitted, temporarily, to use motor vehicles through the Howberry Road entrance to the Park until the Committee had an opportunity of con­ sidering the matter, but the Chairman informed the Governors that he felt unable to commit the Committee to extend this temporary concession to tradesmen visiting the gardener's cottage. The School's representatives were told in detail of the complaints concern­ ing the unauthorised use of the Howberry Road entrance to the Recreation Ground arising from the lack of gates. It was suggested to them that the School could improve the ingress and egress by purchasing land for making an additional access from Dalkeith Grove. The fencing and making up of the road through the Park over the existing L.T.E. narrow bridge over the railway would increase the danger to pedestrians; and that the construction of a footbridge, alongside the existing bridge, could be in the region of £2,000. OPEN SPACES 1674 The Town Clerk referred to the legal position, which, no doubt, he could discuss with the Governors' Solicitors, but, whilst the School's rights would be scrupulously observed, there remained the wider aspect of the public, both from the road safety aspect and that of the lawful use and enjoyment of a public Open Space. RESOLVED: (i) That the action of the Chairman in granting a temporary permission to the extent mentioned, be hereby approved and confirmed; (ii) that, having regard to continuing complaints from residents about the nuisance from unauthorised vehicles using the Howberry Road entrance, particularly at night, the Borough Engineer be hereby instructed to prepare and submit to the Committee proposals and estimates for erecting gates at this entrance to the Park; (iii) that the School Governors be informed that, having regard to the danger to the public enjoying the Park, particularly children, arising from the narrow bridge over the railway crossing the Park, the Committee reaffirm their decision in resolution 2538 (21st February, 1961), and do not thus authorise the issue of permits allowing named persons (parents, school children, etc.) to cross the Park by car at school attendance and leaving times, or on special occasions; (iv) that Mr. Wiseman (the School Gardener), and his medical practitioner, be informed that the Committee do not grant their applications for unrestricted use of the Howberry Road entrance to the Park; (v) that the doctor's attention be drawn to the Canons Drive entrance to the School and to the right of access therefrom to the Gardener's cottage; and (vi) that it be suggested to Mr. Wiseman that he should ask the Headmistress for a key to the School gates. 2578. Maintenance of School Playing Fields and Premises: Carreras Sports Ground, Stanmore, Belmont Ward: Resolution 2534 (21st February, 1961): The Town Clerk reported that the Education Committee had adopted a recommendation of their Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee that, from the date of completion of purchase of this Sports Ground by Middlesex County Council, the Borough Council should take over responsibility for mainten­ ance of the Sports Ground, under the terms of the General Maintenance Agreement, on the understanding that Middlesex County Council (a) let a flat on the first floor of the main pavilion to the Corporation, at a nominal rent, for a resident groundsman; (b) lease the bowling green to the Corpor­ ation for public use, subject to the green being completely fenced from the remainder of the Ground; and (c) that there be no joint use of the existing pavilion, but users of the bowling green shall be permitted to erect their own bowls pavilion. In connection with (a) above, the Borough Engineer reported that the flat is not required for any of the employees responsible for maintenance of the Ground, and the Education Committee might wish to consider the accom­ modation for a caretaker for the school's use of the pavilion. The Town Clerk also reported that the (Education) General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee, having considered requests for the use of sports facilities on this Ground, had resolved that its use on Sundays should not be permitted, and that organisations, unconnected with local schools, should be informed that their applications for sports facilities after the end of the sum­ mer season 1961 will not be granted. The Open Spaces Committee were also asked to consider making alternative accommodation available in Canons Park for those organisations no longer able to use Carreras Sports Ground. RESOLVED: That the Education Committee be informed that the flat above the pavilion, in Carreras Sports Ground, is not required for an Open 1675 OPEN SPACES

Spaces employee; that the Open Spaces Committee hereby defer consider­ ation of the suggested leasing to the Borough Council of the existing bowling green, for a report by the Borough Engineer upon the public demand for bowls facilities in the area, with costs of providing bowls changing accom­ modation, public conveniences, car parking and fencing; and that as Canons Park contains the George V Memorial Garden, and is maintained for quiet walks, the Committee's proposals for the future development of the Park do not include football, hockey, or rounders pitches. 2579. Proposed Covered Swimming Bath: RESOLVED: That the Committee refer, for an early report by the Borough Engineer to the Special Sub-Com­ mittee re a Proposed Covered Swimming Bath, a motion, referred to the Open Spaces Committee by the Council on 10th March, 1961, suggesting consideration be given to the construction of an indoor bath, and ancillary facilities, in the Borough upon the lines of a scheme recently completed in Holborn. 2580. Sports Facilities in Headstone Manor: Headstone Ward: Resolution 2488 (10th January, 1961): The Town Clerk reported that the Youth Sub- Committee (28th February, 1961) had renewed their request to the Open Spaces Committee for urgent action to be taken to provide the requested temporary facilities for washing and changing in the cricket pavilion at Headstone Manor. The Borough Engineer reported that the expenditure involved in providing temporary washing facilities would not, in his view, be justified, as provision (£500) is made for permanent facilities, namely, a comprehensive pavilion, and the extension of the running track at a total estimated cost of £16,000) to begin in 1961 /62. RESOLVED: That, with the object of as early attention as practicable being given to the above-mentioned proposals, the Chairman, in consultation with the Borough Engineer, be hereby authorised to decide whether the engagement of a consultant architect should, in this instance, be recom­ mended. 2581. Improvement of Changing Accommodation in Harrow Weald Recrea­ tion Ground: Resolution 2543 21st February, 1961): The Town Clerk submitted a further letter (18th March, 1961) from the Harrow Weald Bowling Club, referring to various aspects of the proposed improvements. RESOLVED: That the Harrow Weald Bowling Club be informed that (i) it is proposed to provide dressing accommodation (not a pavilion) and public conveniences for general use in the Recreation Ground, similar to those now under construction at Byron Recreation Ground, being superior to those provided at The Croft Open Space. The changing accommodation will comprise four dressing rooms, one wash room with showers, foot bath and two basins, and ladies' and gentlemen's conveniences at each end of the building. Urinals will also be provided near the wash-room; with electric lighting and hot water; (ii) the scheme does not include the pro­ vision of separate public conveniences, but three of the existing wooden sheds will be removed; (iii) the Open Spaces Committee do not agree to provide a chemical closet with screen near the bowling green until the dressing accommodation has been completed, because existing public con­ veniences are available and within reasonable walking distance of the bowling green; (iv) the proposed scheme does not at present include a OPEN SPACES 1676 shelter for use by the bowlers, and the public; and (v) whilst the Committee regret they cannot agree to the Bowling Club's request for a separate bowls pavilion in which to entertain visiting players, with all the other amenities associated therewith, the Committee hereby instruct the Borough Engineer to include in the scheme a small kitchen in which users of the pitches may prepare tea. 2582. Annual Borough Swimming Competition, 1961: Resolution 2542 (21st February, 1961): The Town Clerk reported that a meeting of representatives of the Harrow and Wealdstone Swimming Clubs, and of the Harrow Schools' Swimming Association, was held on 22nd March, 1961, to discuss the Com­ petition. A representative of the Open Spaces Committee was invited and, by arrangement with the Chairman (Councillor Kingett), Councillor Tackley attended. The meeting agreed (a) that the Competition be held at the Wealdstone Swimming Baths, on 22nd July, 1961, commencing at 6 p.m.; (b) that Certificates, bearing the Borough Coat of Arms, be presented to the persons placed second and third in each Competition; and (c) that the Competition be extended to embrace boys and girls, residents of the Borough, of Primary School age. RESOLVED: That the report be noted; and that the General Purposes Committee be asked to approve of the Borough Coat of Arms being repro­ duced in whole, to a suitable scale, upon the said Certificates. 2583. Application to Take Money Collection in Headstone Manor: Resolu­ tion 2518 (21st February, 1961): Having received a further report, that similar permission had been granted some years ago: RESOLVED: That the Committee hereby grant an application by Middlesex Women's Cricket Association to take money collections at a cricket match to be held in Head­ stone Manor on 17th August, 1961, on the understanding that the proceeds will be paid to the Association's fund to defray the costs of a tour of this country by the Australian Women's Cricket team in 1963. 2584. Suggested Provision of Roller Skating Rink: The Town Clerk submitted a letter (2nd March, 1961) from Mrs. D. M. Kendall, of Edgware, that, as Queensbury Park is now being developed, a roller skating rink, upon the lines of that at Cricklewood, should be considered. The Borough Engineer reported that the rink at Cricklewood is privately owned; and that the approved lay-out of Queensbury Park leaves no room for additional sports facilities. A skating rink would also involve constant supervision of patrons in the interests of personal safety and could be costly. RESOLVED: That Mrs. Kendall be thanked for her interest and informed that the Committee, for the said reasons, regret they could not adopt her suggestion. 2585. London and Greater London Playing Fields Association: Children's Playground Report 1956/60: RESOLVED: That the Committee receive, and refer to the Officers for attention, a circular letter (2nd March, 1961) from this Association and sending a copy of their Playground Report for Middle­ sex for 1956/60, and expressing the Association's concern that there are areas in the County still deficient in playgrounds. 2586. "Making the Most of School Playing Fields": Resolution 2546 (21st February, 1961): RESOLVED: That the Committee receive the report of the Town Clerk tUat, in accordance with Committee instructions, copies of this 1677 OPEN SPACE

booklet, issued by the National Playing Fields Association, were obtained and circulated to Members of the Committee. 2587. Middlesex Sports Guide, 1960/61: RESOLVED: That the Committee receive, and note the contents of, a copy of the Middlesex Sports Guide (Area 4: South Central Middlesex) issued by London and Greater London Playing Fields Association. 2588. Annual Conferences, etc.: RESOLVED: (1) That Alderman Collins and the Borough Engineer, or his representative, be hereby appointed to attend the joint Annual Conference of Burial and Cremation Authorities, at Harrogate, on 19th-21st September, 1961. (2) That, upon this occasion, no delegates be appointed to attend the Annual Conference of the Cremation Society at Eastbourne, on 27th-29th June, 1961. (3) That the Borough Engineer, or his representative, be hereby appointed to attend the Annual Conference of the National Association of Baths Superintendents, at Torquay, on 10th-13th October, 1961. 2589. Continuing Minutes: RESOLVED: (1) That the Committee receive, and note, a list of continuing minutes now submitted by the Town Clerk. (2) Suggested Horse-Riding Track on Stanmore Common: Resolution 2424 (29th November, 1960): That the Borough Engineer be instructed to report to the Committee in this matter at their next ordinary meeting. (3) Redevelopment of Sites of Underground Air Raid Shelters: Resolution 1963 (22nd September, 1959): That the Borough Engineer be instructed to report to the Committee with proposals for the re-development, where neces­ sary, of the sites of underground air raid shelters at Pinner Memorial Park, and Harrow and Byron Recreation Grounds, which the Home Office have agreed may be removed; including inviting and submitting any neces­ sary tenders for this purpose. (4) Behnont Lodge, Harrow Weald: Resolution 2255 (7th June, 1960): That the Borough Engineer be instructed to report to the Committee in regard to a suggestion that Belmont Lodge might be used as a Community Centre. 2590. Maintenance of Pinner Memorial Park: The Chairman reported the receipt of a letter (19th March, 1961) from Mrs. A. Liebenthal, of Harrow Weald, expressing her appreciation of the excellence of the gardens in this Park, and the hope that the employees concerned would be complimented upon their work. The Chairman stated that he had, on behalf of the Committee, warmly thanked the resident for her appreciatory remarks. RESOLVED: That the report be received with satisfaction; and that the Borough Engineer and Surveyor be asked to convey to the Open Spaces Superintendent, and members of his Section, the Committee's best thanks and appreciation. 2591. Cemetery Memorials and Inscriptions: RESOLVED: That the Chairman be hereby authorised to approve the Cemetery Memorials and Inscriptions, as entered in the Register and dated 4th April, 1961. 2592. Grants of Exclusive Rights of Burial: RESOLVED: That the Common Seal of the Corporation be affixed to Exclusive Rights of Burial numbered 2655 to 2696, inclusive. OPEN SPACES 1678

2593. Vote of Thanks to Chairman: RESOLVED: That the Committee hereby extend their best thanks and appreciation to the Chairman (Councillor Kingett) for the very able and efficient manner in which he has conducted the Open Spaces business of the Committee during the past year. The Chairman, in acknowledgment, thanked the Members, and Officers, for their great help and co-operation. (Signed) [AS*

PLANNING COMMITTEE: 15th March, 1961. Present: The Deputy Mayor (Councillor Macaulay); Councillor Mason (in the Chair); Aldermen Cutler, C.C., and Miller; Councillors Buckle, Mrs. Edwards, Fairley, Glanville, Jenkins and Spurway.

PART I.—RECOMMENDATIONS. RECOMMENDATION I: Replanning Central Harrow: Implementation of the Council's Redevelopment Proposals. (a) Approval of the Redevelopment Proposals by the Local Planning Authority. Your Committee are pleased to report that the Middlesex County Council, as Local Planning Authority, have approved, in principle, of the declaration as a Comprehensive Development Area of the area of land bounded— on the west—by part of Headstone Road between Amersham Road and Kymberley Road; on the north—by Amersham Road, in line to the south of the flats in Byron Road, Byron Road itself, and the southern boundary of the Methodist Church; on the east—by the rear boundaries of Nos. 23-43 (inclusive), Angel Road, Greenhill Road and Havelock Road; on the south—by College Road (excluding the Abbey National Building Society building and the Heathfield School for Girls) and the rear bound­ aries of Nos. 1-19 (inclusive), Kymberley Road. The County Council have also agreed to have consultations with the Council, so that plans and documents may be prepared for submission to the Minister of Housing and Local Government. Such consultations would have regard to the representations which have been made by residents, and would explore points raised by the County Council with regard to— (a) the possibility of the realignment of the Byron Road extension so as to join Amersham Road; (b) the allocation of land on the south side of St. Anne's Road for shopping business purposes;