HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL NON CONFIDENTIAL COMMITTEE: ENVIRONMENT DATE: 18 MAY 2016 REPORT BY: TOWN CLERK SUBJECT: NICKEY LINE – GREENSPACE ACTION PLAN 2016-2021 1. Summary 1.1 Members are asked to consider the Greenspace Action Plan (GAP) produced by Countryside Management Services (CMS) on behalf of St Albans City and District Council (SADC). 1.2 The purpose of this GAP is to determine a management programme that will deliver ongoing enhancement of the Nickey Line, meeting the expectations of all stakeholders. The plan covers a five year period from 2016-21 and will guide works carried out by CMS, SADC and the Friends of the Nickey Line (FONL). 1.3 The Nickey Line is owned by SADC and HCC with the section in Hemel Hempstead being owned by Dacorum Borough Council. 1.4 Until 31 March 2016, Redbourn Parish Council and Harpenden Town Council managed their respective sections of the Nickey Line. An annual grant was paid to the Town Council by SADC to cover expenses relating to its management. 1.4 The GAP can be viewed via the District Council’s website here. 2. Recommendation 2.1 It is recommended that: 2.1.1 the Greenspace Action Plan for the ongoing management of the Nickey Line is considered and a response to the GAP is drawn up with input from Members. 2.1.2 Members note the management of the Nickey Line in Harpenden is under the control of the District Council with effect from 31 March 2016. 3. Background 3.1 This draft plan has been drawn up for a second stage of consultation where all interested parties are invited to comment upon the actions of the details proposed. 3.2 The purpose of the GAP is to enhance the Nickey Line as an important component of Hertfordshire’s Green Infrastructure network, providing a corridor for nature, be well used for sustainable transport and a popular place for leisure. 3.3 The aims and objectives of the GAP are: 1. Develop a leisure route based around the history of the Nickey Line: a) Establish a scheme of interpretation that allows users to understand both where they are along the Nickey Line and also within the surrounding areas and nearby points of interest. b) Restore and document historical features along the line c) Allow for the enjoyment of the surrounding environment in a way that also supports wildlife d) Create an enjoyable, attractive and user friendly route e) Support and update date off site interpretation, including publications and online resources. 2. Enhance the Nickey Line as a green corridor a) Carry out habitat improvements along the route b) Strengthen the continuity of vegetation that provides a biodiversity corridor c) Plan and act now for high quality habitats in future years 3. Encourage a safe and sustainable transport route a) Create a route that is used for non-motorised travel between Hemel Hempstead , Redbourn and Harpenden b) Provide access points that are clearly signed, welcoming and are suitable for cyclists, wheelchairs, pushchairs, mobility scooters and pedestrians. c) Connect, where possible, to the wider Green Infrastructure network 4. Ensure engagement and involvement of local communities along the route a) Encourage the continued involvement of the Friends of the Nickey Line b) Publicise and facilitate involvement from all communities along the line, including Hemel Hempstead, Redbourn and Harpenden c) Hold events to encourage public use and understanding of the Nickey Line d) Engage with schools to provide educational opportunities 5. Adopt an appropriate and sustainable management regime a) Determine management responsibilities and arrangements across the different ownership boundaries b) Ensure all parties are working towards the same management objectives that are appropriate to meeting the aims of this GAP c) Ensure best value for money is obtained from the management arrangements. 3.4 The proposed design of the Nickey Line will mirror the series of stations and halts which operated when the line was functioning as a railway line. There will be a series of ‘station’s at interesting points along the route which will represent slow spaces where people can stop, take in their surroundings, engage with history or leave the Nickey Line to explore the surrounding area. 4. Financial Implications 4.1 There is a charge in the Grounds Maintenance Contract of £3,250 which will be amended to reflect the changes in 1.4 above. .