jephson gardens management plan

Transcription

Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens
Management Plan 2013-2018
Jephson Gardens floral displays and views towards the Glasshouse
and Willes Obelisk
Jephson and Mill Gardens
Management Plan, 2013-2018
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Warwick District Council
Contents
Foreword
Section
1.1
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.1.3
1.1.4
1.1.5
1.1.6
1.1.7
1.2
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.2.4
1.2.5
1.3
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5
1.4
1.4.1
1.4.2
1.4.3
1.4.4
1.4.5
1.4.6
1.4.7
1.4.7
2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
2.1.5
2.1.6
2.1.7
2.1.8
2.2
2.3
3.1
3.2
Title
Introduction
What sort of Management Plan?
Structure
Intended Audience
Period of the plan, and stages of review
Management Plan Team
The Council
The District Profile
Policy Context and Strategic Significance
National Planning Policy Framework
Fit for the Future
Emerging New Local Plan
Warwick District Council Green Space Strategy
The Green Flag Award
Legal Issues
Ownership
Bye Laws and The Control of Dog Faeces
Leases
Licenses
Listings and Designations
Site Description and Assessment
A brief history
Leamington Riverside Parks and Gardens
Significance of the park
Why the park needed restoring
What was restored
Significant features, and compartments
Main uses
Who are the users
Analysis and Evaluation
A Welcoming Place
Healthy, Safe, and Secure
Clean and Well Maintained
Sustainability
Conservation and Heritage
Community Involvement
Marketing and Events
Management
Vision
Aims
Action Plan
Finance and Resources
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Page
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4.1
4.2
Monitoring Arrangements
Communications Mechanisms
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Appendices
Appendix A
Ownership Details
Appendix B
Play Area Inspection Sheet
Appendix C
Health and Safety Documentation
Appendix D
Grounds maintenance Schedule and Plan
Appendix E
Condition Audit
Appendix F
Buildings and Infrastructure Planned Maintenance
Appendix G
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens User Survey
List of Figures
Section
Figure 1.3.1
Title
Ownership Boundary of Jephson Gardens
Page
14
Figure 1.3.2
Ownership Boundary of Mill Gardens
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Figure 1.4.10
Leamington Parks and Gardens
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Figure 1.4.11
Important Built Features
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Foreword
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens have undergone a complete restoration
(2000 – 2003) funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Warwick District
Council. The restoration and renewal project has ensured that Jephson
Gardens is once again a significant „civic‟ park, while the renewal of Mill
Gardens has provided a community facility by enhancing the play and
recreational activities within the Gardens. A new Glasshouse has extended
the horticultural diversity, visitor interest, and provided further opportunities
for education and training. Additionally the provision of a new restaurant has
allowed a more complete restoration of the riverside.
In 2005 the Gardens gained an award for the „Best Park in Britain‟, as judged
by the Royal Horticultural Society, and then gained a Green Flag Award in
2006. In addition the Gardens also gained a Green Heritage Award in 2006,
the first for the West Midlands.
Warwick District Council, together with its partners, are committed to
continuously improving the services and facilities offered. In order to focus
resources and agree priorities, this Management Plan has been developed to
set out a comprehensive plan for the Gardens for the next 5 years. It brings
together current issues and priorities actions needed to address these issues.
This plan will remain a live document; indeed the need for it to evolve is fully
recognised. To achieve success a robust mechanisms for its monitoring and
review have been developed. This revision reflects the second formal review
undertaken and includes the comments received through the Green Flag
process.
Cllr David Shilton Neighbourhood Services Portfolio Holder
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Section 1 – Where are we now?
1.1 Introduction
Jephson Gardens is a well loved park in the centre of Royal Leamington Spa,
Warwickshire. Famed for floral displays, fountains and fine trees, its
reputation is of regional significance. Originally laid out as pleasure grounds
in the 1830s, it still evokes its Victorian and early 20th century heyday. The
gently sloping site is a narrow rectangle of less than six hectares on the
north bank of the River Leam. Mill Gardens, laid out in 1903, occupies a level
triangle of less than two hectares on the south bank. The two parks are
physically connected by bridges; their landscapes and facilities complement
one another: hence the long-term plan covering them both, approved in
1991, and the award of a grant by The Heritage Lottery Fund in 1999 for the
implementation of a new masterplan covering both.
1.1.1 What sort of management plan?
This document has been written to fulfil the requirements of the Heritage
Lottery Fund‟s capital investment in the renewal of the Gardens, and to
support Warwick District Council‟s application for a Green Flag Award for
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens.
„The Management Plan will form the basis for measuring the success of a
project and the compliance by the Council with the HLF contract. HLF wishes
to see that the Council understands their obligation to protect the capital
investment made in the park, and that it has prepared a plan that will do so.‟
– Heritage Lottery Fund Public Park Initiative
„The management plan needs to be a site-specific, working document that
provides a clear vision of the site‟s development and should identify how the
Green Flag criteria are managed and maintained.‟ – Green Flag Guidelines
1.1.2 Structure
A number of management plan guidelines exist that detail how such a
document should be developed and written. The guidelines that have been
used to assist the development of this document are the CABE Space „Guide
to Producing Park and Green Space Management Plans‟ (2004), which fulfils
the Green Flag‟s requirement and the HLF Public Park Initiative‟s ‟10 Year
Management and Maintenance Plan Guidelines‟ (2003).
As both documents clearly state, no two management plans are the same,
with every park and green space having a unique demand depending on
individual character, management and political agenda. The structure
adopted for this report broadly follows the CABE Space outline as shown
below, and then incorporates detailed sections as required by the HLF.
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Where are we now?
Introduction
Policy Context
Site Description
Where do we want to get to?
Analysis and Evaluation
Vision
Aims
How will we get there?
Work / Action Plan
Finance and Resources
How will we know where we have arrived?
Monitor and Review
1.1.3 Intended Audience
This management plan is first and foremost a working document that will be
a reference point to potentially all who have an interest in the management
of Jephson Gardens such as the Council, site contractors, and community
groups. It has been written to clarify what decisions the Council have made
with regard to how the site should be used, and consequently how it will be
managed and maintained. It also contains the background information and
the reasoning behind the decisions.
1.1.4 Period of the plan, and stages of review
This management plan has been written by a Management Plan Team to
cover a period of 5 years. Revised during the early part of 2013, it will
remain in circulation and as the foremost guide to decision making in
Jephson Gardens until 2018.
It is acknowledged that circumstances may change within Warwick District
Council, and within the Gardens. As a working document, it will have to react
to such changes and be dynamic enough to accommodate change. It has
therefore incorporated stages of review which will measure performance. The
Management Plan Team will meet to discuss the success and failure of any of
the actions detailed in the plan.
1.1.5 Members of the Management Plan Team, and sources of advice
and information
Jon Holmes – WDC, Greenspace Development Manager
Dave Anderson – WDC, Greenspace Team Leader
Laura Smiths- Jephson Gardens Ranger
The team have been responsible for the writing of this plan and will need to
meet and review the action plan on twice yearly basis.
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1.1.6 The Council
Following the last election in May 2011 the political composition of this
Warwick District Council is
Conservative (25 seats)
Liberal Democrat (9 seats)
Labour (8 seats)
Independents (4 seats)
The Conservatives have overall control of the Council.
The Council currently comprises of the following departments
Development
Housing & Property
Environment and Community Protection
Strategic Leadership
Corporate and Community Services
Culture
Neighbourhood – includes Green Space Team
Finance
The management, development and maintenance of The Gardens sit within
the Green Space Team of Neighbourhood Services.
A Working Party was set up for Jephson Gardens for the implementation of
the HLF assisted project during 1999-2003, and was a mainly consultative
group that included 4 Council Members: L.Caborn, G.Darmody, D.Shilton and
J.Short. This Working Party has been disbanded since the project‟s
completion.
1.1.7 The District Profile
As an essential part of compiling this management plan the demographic and
other population data for the local area around the Gardens and the wider
community of Leamington Spa was researched. This information has assisted
the authors of this plan in determining current and potential future
community needs. A summary of this research information is provided below.
The Gardens itself sit within the Willes and Clarendon Wards of the District.
The resident population of the District, as measured in the 2011 Census, was
137,648 with a median age of 39. The town of Leamington has experienced a
period of steady population growth. There have been several major
residential developments within the area, and as such growth has continued
strongly.
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The District is made up of 88% of white British, with a large 12% ethnic
population. 96% of the health of the population of this area is good or fairly
good which is above the national average.
Unemployment rates are below the national average. Within this area there
is a fairly high percentage of students, which has an impact on the current
ratio of young and older people.
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1.2 Policy Context for Parks and Gardens in Warwick District
In preparation for the writing of the Council‟s Green Space Strategy and
subsequent park management plans, a large piece of work was undertaken
to understand the policy context in which the preparation of these documents
was to be undertaken. A summary of the links between this Management
Plan and other strategic documents is given below:
National
Green Spaces
Taskforce „Green
Spaces, Better Places‟.
Department of
Transport, leisure and
Regions (DTLR) 2003
Living Places: Cleaner,
Safer, Greener, Office
of the deputy Prime
Minister (ODPM) 2003
Planning Policy
Guidance 17: Planning
for Open Space, Sport
and Recreation;
White Paper:
Communities in
Control;
The Six Acre Standard,
National Playing Fields
Association (2001);
Natural England‟s
Access to Natural
green space Targets
(ANGST);
Green Flag Award
Natural England –
Green Infrastructure
Guidance
Natural Environment
White Paper, 2011
Regional
Warwickshire Climate
Change Strategy
West Midlands
Regional Climate
Change Action Plan
2007.
Coventry, Solihull &
Warwickshire Habitat
Biodiversity Audit;
Warwickshire County
Council Biodiversity
Strategy;
Rights of Way and
Recreational Highway
Strategy 2011-2026
Local
Climate Change
Adaptation Strategy
February 2011
Local Development
Framework;
Open Spaces SPD
2009
Sustainable
Community Strategy
2008 - 2026;
Play Strategy 2007 –
2012;
An Arts Strategy for
WDC 2009 – 2013;
Trees and Woodland
Strategy;
Youth Facilities
Study;
Parks and Open
Spaces Audit March
2008.
Study
Delivery Assessment
Volunteering Policy
(draft)
1.2.1 National Planning Policy Framework
The National Planning Policy Framework, which replaced PPG17, highlights
the importance of planning for access to good quality open spaces and how
opportunities for sport and recreation can make an important contribution to
the health and well-being of communities. It recommends that planning
policies should identify specific needs and quantitative or qualitative deficits
or surpluses of open space, sports and recreational facilities in the local area.
The information gained from this assessment of needs and opportunities
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should be used to set locally derived standards for the provision of open
space, sports and recreational facilities.
1.2.2 Fit for the Future
The purpose of Warwick District Council is to improve the quality of life for
everyone who lives in, works in or visits Warwick District.
Working with its partners it has produced a long term plan, known as the
Sustainable Community Strategy, with a broad range of aims that will
improve the quality of life of residents within the district, including that of the
natural environment which is to be protected and enhanced. Producing a
management plan for the Gardens will support this aim.
1.2.2 Emerging New Local Plan
The Council is preparing a new Local Plan for Warwick District, which will
guide the area's future development for the next 18 years.
One of the preferred options which is being considered is to protect and
improve the quality of existing open spaces in the District and to enhance
both the quantity and quality of open space provision as the towns and
villages grow over the plan period. Producing a management plan for the
Gardens will support this preferred option.
1.2.3 Warwick District Council Green Space Strategy
This is the first Green Space Strategy for Warwick district and has been
prepared to help inform a series of recommendations and provide a strategic
direction for the current and future provision of green space within Warwick
district. The strategy is based on a comprehensive evidence base and
considers not only the physical provision of the integrated elements of parks,
natural areas, play spaces, green corridors and amenity areas but also a set
of principles to meet future challenges and make things happen.
The strategy establishes an overall, vision and framework for achieving key
recommendations between 2012 and 2026. The Green Space Strategy has
been produced to align with the timescales and vision outlined within
Warwick District Council‟s Fit for the Future/Sustainable Community
Strategy.
There are seven key principles and twenty five recommendations within the
strategy that help guide the development of this management plan. One of
those recommendations is to „Ensure that green space is actively managed
through appropriate long term management planning‟.
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1.2.4 The Green Flag Award
The Green Flag Award scheme (www.greenflagaward.org.uk) is a measure of
the quality of the provision and management of parks and green spaces. The
Green Flag Award is supported by Communities and Local Government (CLG)
and Keep Britain Tidy runs Green Flag Award in partnership with
GreenSpace, and BTCV. Before March 2009 the awards were run by The Civic
Trust.
It is an annual award scheme that recognises well managed and high quality
green spaces. It is intended to continue to apply for a Green Flag Award for
The Gardens to confirm our belief and confidence in the quality of the site
and its management. Its criteria also guide how this management plan has
been written.
1.3
Legal Issues
1.3.1 Ownership
Jephson Gardens are held by Warwick District Council and is listed as Deed
title WDC 591 A. A copy of this deed title is included in Appendix A. The
Gardens were surrendered by the Trustees to Leamington Corporation in the
Leamington Priors Act of 1896. The change, welcomed by the town, marked
the start of a reversal of decline under the Trustees. The land is described in
4 parcels adjoining Jephson Gardens‟ bounded on the west by the Parade, on
the south east by Jephson Gardens and the north by Newbold Terrace. Mill
Bridge, Mill Walk or Passage, and Elephant Walk are owned by Warwickshire
County Council and managed by their Highways Department. Figure 1.3.1
shows the boundary of Jephson Gardens.
There are restrictive covenants on Jephson Gardens: preventing the building
on land except for summer houses, ornamental huts, greenhouses, bridges,
lodges, conservatories etc. Not to cut down trees, not to plant trees or
shrubs more than 20ft height facing Newbold Terrace, and to keep in good
repair.
Mill Gardens have no registered title. The Mill site itself (and presumably the
mill holm: see 1886 OS map) was acquired by Leamington Corporation from
Lord Aylesford in 1898 in order to carry out the river improvements of 190103. The site of Mill Gardens, by then redundant filter beds for the old water
supply, was associated with the mill but may have been owned by the Willes
family of Newbold Comyn. Figure 1.3.2 shows the boundary of Mill Gardens.
1.3.2 Bye Laws
The Council's ‘pleasure grounds‟, including most of the land that is the
subject of this plan are covered by Byelaws made by the Council under
section 164 of the Public Health Act, 1875, and under Section 15 and under
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Sections 12 and 15 jointly of the Open Spaces Act 1906 for the regulation
and better management of those pleasure grounds
1.3.3 Dog Control Orders
Warwick District Council has agreed to introduce four Dog Control Orders
under the provisions of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act
2005. The two Orders specific to The Gardens which were effective from 1
March 2011 require persons in control of dogs:
The Fouling of Land by Dogs (Warwick District Council) Order 2011
To remove faeces deposited by their dog from any land to which the
public have access in the Warwick District and which is open to the air
(including land which is covered but open to the air on at least one
side). Note: This Order will replace and extend the existing controls
under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996.
The Dogs on Leads (Warwick District Council) Order 2011
To keep a dog on a lead at all times in the following areas:
Jephson Gardens, Royal Leamington Spa
Mill Gardens, Royal Leamington Spa
1.3.4 Leases
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens have two lease contracts in operation
which are specific to individual facilities.
Jephson Gardens Restaurant, Glasshouse and Studio
Restaurant, Aviary Cafe and Glasshouse
These facilities are the subject of a Lease contract between Warwick District
Council and Kudos Catering Limited. The lease is for a term of six years from
1st January 2012. The lease also covers the operation of the Cafeteria and
the Assembly Rooms at the Royal Pump Rooms. The Council receives an
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income share, based on a % of the turnover figure, irrespective of whether
Kudos makes a profit or loss. Kudos Catering Limited are permitted to use
the Glasshouse on an ad hoc basis, by licence from the Council, for the
purpose of holding weddings and other functions which are being catered for
in the Restaurant. The North Lodge is also used by Kudos as an office and
storage use.
Boathouse
The Leam Boat Centre offers a variety of pleasure boating along the River
Leam and a fun range of kids & adult canoe & kayak activities. The current
lease is with Leam Boats which commenced on 1 st July 2005 for a term of 10
years. The current rent is £X per annum, as from 1 st July 2010 up to, and
including, the expiry date of 30th June 2015.
1.3.5 Licenses
Licenses for holding events in the Gardens and its facilities are available from
the Council.
1.3.6 Listings and Designations
English Heritage has compiled a Register of Parks and Gardens of Special
Historical Interest in England. Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens are part of
the Leamington Spa Gardens group, registered as Grade II.
There are 7 listed structures within the Gardens, and numerous others within
close proximity of the site. The structures within the Gardens are all Grade II
listed. In summary, the listed structures are:
Jephson Memorial (1848-9), a white marble statue of Dr. Jephson
contained within a circular stone Pavilion.
Willes Obelisk (1875), a grey granite obelisk on a neo-gothic
pedestal, erected in honor of Edward Willes who bequeathed the
gardens to the District.
Hitchman Fountain (c.1867), in memory of Dr.Hitchman. Unusual
design, executed in stone and granite.
Aviary (Late 19th Century), in the manner of a bandstand but 3
bays wide, the centre one gabled and slightly recessed.
Mill Bridge (1903), Stone weir retaining walls, with iron towers
and suspension stays.
North Lodge and South Lodge (c1846) Stucco, symmetrical pair of
single storey dwellings.
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Fig 1.3.1 Ownerhip Boundary of Jephson Gardens
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Fig 1.3.2 Ownership Boundary of Mill Gardens
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1.4 Site Description
1.4.1 A brief history
Jephson Gardens Hitchmans Fountain in 1892
As part of the submission for Heritage Lottery Fund grant in 1998, detailed
historical research was carried out. A summary chronology of the Gardens is
provided below, and a more detailed chronology is in Appendix H. This is
followed by a series of drawings produced for the HLF Application that
illustrate how the layout of the park has evolved over the past 175 years.
The Gardens are the centrepiece of a sequence of 19th century parks beside
the River Leam in Regency and Victorian Leamington Spa. The whole group is
accorded Grade II status in the English Heritage Register of Historic Gardens.
The Gardens themselves have long been famous for their floral displays,
beautiful and unusual trees, fountains and quiet riverbanks. Among their
admirers was the American writer Nathaniel Hawthorne, who described them
in „Our Old Home‟
Elements in their history are common to other places, notably the provision
of work for the unemployed in laying them out and the underpinning of their
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finances by private donations. They provided space for formal events, housed
commemorative features and the buildings and small structures which could
be a more whimsical reflection of current tastes than could housing and
public buildings. Space was available for the events which the time
demanded, from balloon ascents and fireworks displays of the early days to
the outdoor exhibiting of works of art of today. The planting also represented
the range of fashionable features which might be expected to be found in the
finest parks, floral displays, a fine lawn for sporting activities, woodland
walks, a lake and river bank.
Formerly riverside meadows and woodland, the Gardens were laid out as
walks in 1832 by the landowner, Edward Willes of Newbold Comyn, and
known as the Newbold Gardens. Walking was recommended to visitors by the
medical men of the time, notably Dr Henry Jephson, as an essential adjunct
to „taking the waters‟. The Gardens‟ other purpose was to raise the value of
properties which Willes planned in Newbold Terrace, by guaranteeing them
an open outlook.
A popular movement grew up in the 1840‟s both to acquire and improve the
Gardens for the town, and to create a testimonial to Dr Jephson. A lease was
acquired in 1846, and many of the present features – the lake, the lodges,
the main walk – constructed. The lower gardens were laid out, possibly
influenced by the ideas of J.C. Loudon, as a small-scale picturesque
landscape with views across the lake towards the Jephson Temple and
towards the Parish Church, whose vicar planned to rebuild it as the focal
point of the town. An unsightly mill across the river, and a swimming bath in
the river itself, were screened by trees.
Renamed the Jephson Gardens, they opened to the public in June 1847. The
Temple housing the marble statue of Dr Jephson (who was still very much
alive) was officially unveiled in May 1849. The oldest trees in the Gardens –
cedars, copper beeches, and evergreen oaks –date from this period, and
many other exotic specimens were introduced later. Other memorials and
structures were added over time.
The principal elements of the design were already in place by 1850 but the
creation of the final major feature, a wide expanse of river with a back drop
of willows on the far bank, though long sought after, took more than sixty
years to accomplish. In retrospect, the creation of Mill Gardens can be seen
as the natural, though by no means inevitable, conclusion to the aspirations
of the early promoters of the town and the Gardens.
While other parks in the town were developed to cater for the requirement of
local people, the Jephson Gardens retained the ambition of providing for the
visitor and being a focus for the town‟s prosperity, and this has lasted into
this century.
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Summary Chronology of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens
1814
Pump Room Gardens laid out for subscribers to the Royal
Pump Rooms. Other outdoor spaces included nurseries and
the gardens of hotels and baths. Permissive access to private
land for walking.
1830s
Creation of the Newbold Gardens and Wood Walks. Widening
of adjacent river below the mill weir.
1840s
Newbold Gardens become Jephson Gardens; more river
works.
1850s
Proposals for widening and straightening the river to dilute
pollution, reduce flooding and create opportunities for
walking and boating. Increased use of cricket field (the
future Victoria Park) for outdoor events.
1860s
Major river works: Emscote Mill removed; Edmondscote weir
and New River Walk created; much sewage removed from
the river into extended sewers. Pump Room Gardens
acquired by the town.
1870s
Pump Room Gardens opened to the public. New water supply
for town. Old water supply site, the future Mill Gardens,
becomes redundant.
1880s
Horse-wash rebuilt alongside mill – later known as Elephant
Walk.
1890s
York Walk, footbridge and Victoria Park created; Pump Room
Gardens remodelled; Leamington Mill (Oldham‟s Mill)
acquired and demolished.
1900s
Mill Gardens laid out. River widened above new Mill Bridge
and weir.
1940s
Proposals for enlarging the town and extending its open
spaces; Newbold Comyn Farm acquired.
Postwar: Acquisition of land for creation of open space at Newbold
Terrace East, Welches Meadow, Newbold Comyn, Milverton
riverside, Edmondscote.
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1.4.2 Leamington’s Riverside Parks and Gardens
Leamington has a broad ribbon of parks and gardens on either side of the
winding River Leam. Their creation has been the result of deliberate policy
from the 1850s and continues up to the present day. Improvements were
initially aimed at attracting visitors back to the spa (the railways had made
seaside resorts more accessible) but were also intended to meet the
recreational needs of a growing residential population. Jephson Gardens is
the horticultural jewel in the crown and has the most civic significance of the
Spa Gardens.
To the west of the Gardens are the Pump Room Gardens. These have the
character of a village green or cathedral close. It is a setting for the buildings
around it, including the Parish Church. For people on foot it is a pleasant and
handy short cut or detour on a number of routes in the town centre. In good
weather people like to sit or sunbathe in the Gardens; they are very popular
at lunchtime in the summer. At weekends and in the light evenings in
particular, the gardens are more like a neighbourhood park, attracting
families and other groups for informal games. The Pump Room Gardens are a
venue for occasional events; the Peace Festival, a funfair, band concerts. The
town centre location and nearness to public transport and car parking make
it well suited to small and medium sized events.
Further west is Victoria Park. This was opened to mark Queen Victoria‟s
Diamond Jubilee in 1899 as part of the Corporation‟s plan to provide more
recreation space for the growing town, especially its children. Throughout the
19th century it was Leamington‟s village green, the venue for galas, military
parades, flower shows, circuses and cricket. The riverside path, New River
Walk, had been laid out in the early 1860s along the south bank of the River
Leam, its winding course smoothed out and widened to speed the flow of its
(then) polluted water. The borough engineer, William de Normanville,
skilfully created the park‟s ovoid central space from an odd-shaped site – the
perimeter drive was exactly half a mile in length for running. Victoria Park
has hosted many events, notably the Royal Show, festivities for the
coronation of King George VI and, in 1996, Women‟s World Bowls, which
honoured Leamington by returning in 2004.
To the east of the Gardens are Welches Meadow and the Leam Valley Local
Nature Reserves, situated in Newbold Comyn Country Park. Welches Meadow
is a traditional flood meadow to the south of the River Leam. River water
covers the land for parts of the year enriching the soil and providing ideal
conditions for beetles and other insects. Woodland, grassland, marsh, ponds
and the River Leam itself make up Leam Valley LNR. This area has an
agricultural past with more recent woodland planting and pond creation.
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Figure 1.4.10 Leamington Parks and Gardens
20
1.4.3 Significance of the Gardens
As already stated Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens are part of the
Leamington Spa Gardens group, registered as Grade II in the „Register of
Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England‟. Also there are 7
listed structures within the Gardens, and numerous others within close
proximity of the site. The structures within the Gardens are all Grade II
listed.
The Gardens are well used and much loved public amenity situated in the
centre of Leamngton Spa town. The prominent location of Jephson Gardens
and the quality of the features within its landscape are such to make it a park
of regional significance attracting large numbers of visitors. The location of
eight entrances on major desire lines through the town ensures a high
number of people walking through the park. The accessibility to the
surrounding core of the town‟s facilities for shopping and working additionally
encourages the use of the Gardens, as a much loved public amenity.
Historically the visual impact of the Gardens within the Leamington landscape
must have been considerable, but it may be even greater at the present time
due to the contrast it provides to the surrounding built areas.
Leamington Spa grew rapidly as a resort from the late eighteenth century.
The Newbold Gardens, later named the Jephson Gardens, became the town‟s
principal social, civic and recreational space. From the 1850s a continuing
policy sought to provide parks, gardens, and promenades to enhance the
appeal of the town and provide recreational space, increasingly to residents.
The vigorous pursuit of this vision in the 1890s resulted in the continuous
chain of greenspaces known collectively as the Spa Gardens. They follow the
River Leam at the interface of the Old and New Towns. .
Jephson Gardens maintain their high status
greenspace through horticultural excellence,
features and historic connections; they occupy a
north-south route crosses the east-west axis
Gardens.
as Leamington‟s principal
traditional pleasures, civic
key location where the main
of the river and the Spa
The significance of Mill Gardens is twofold. It enables the landscape of the
upper Jephson Gardens to extend across the widened river (Mill Gardens
similarly borrows its neighbour‟s diverse greenery as a backdrop). Mill
Gardens, intended as a children‟s play park, significantly increases recreation
space for residents south of the river.
Warwick District Council recognises that Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens
are significant because they are:
A green lung in the centre of Leamington Spa, providing for events,
exercise, recreation and education
21
An early example of the philanthropic movement to provide for
recreation and education to town dwellers by creating public parks
A beautiful designed landscape of national importance, which after
restoration are in excellent condition and are much used and much
loved by citizens and visitors
Are an integral part of the historical built environment and link to
neighbouring greenspace.
These significant features oblige the Council to demonstrate responsibility
and commitment to:
Welcoming visitors from all sectors of the community and from far
afield to enjoy the educational, recreational and aesthetic experiences
the Gardens have to offer
Preserving the historic character of the Gardens and its designed
features such as the Hitchmans Fountain and the Aviary.
1.4.4 Why the park needed restoring?
As with almost all public parks and open spaces across the UK, Jephson
Gardens and Mill Gardens suffered decline from the mid-1970‟s through to
the mid-1990‟s with very little investment in the infrastructure, features or
facilities. The character of Jephson Gardens was being lost through
incremental pragmatic alterations and additions. The nursery site became
redundant in 1994. The boating operator neglected the franchise and the
boathouse became semi-derelict.
The significance of the parks is well-documented in the HLF Application, and
summarised in sections 1.4.1 and 1.4.2 above. The cornerstone of all of the
work to date is the importance that the Gardens have for the setting of the
Royal Spa Town, and fulfilling the high expectations of residents and visitors.
Warwick District is well provided for in quantity and quality of open space.
There are numerous parks that offer, for example, recreation or nature
conservation. The importance of Jephson Gardens lies in its unique character
as a semi-formal Pleasure Garden, and its horticultural and arboricultural
excellence.
1.4.5 What was restored?
The restoration plan of 1998 started with over 70 items that could be
restored, but through consultation with the public and the HLF, the final plan
detailed 58 items for restoration. Of these 58 items the majority were part of
seven contracts which were carried out between 2000 and completed by
2003. These seven contracts are detailed below.
22
Summary of restoration works, 2000 – 2006 Phase 1
Contract 1: repair of Jephson Temple, Obelisk, clocktower and
restoration of „stone‟ arbour.
Contract 2: restoration and lighting of the Hitchman Fountain;
underwater lighting of lake fountains.
Contract 3: refurbishment of the boathouse, Mill Gardens. In parallel,
WDC appointed a new boating operator and issued a new lease.
Contract 4: Mill Gardens landscaping, including dredging of boating
pond and construction of landing stages. North Walk in Jephson
Gardens planted. In parallel in Mill Gardens, WDC arranged installation
of play area, treeworks, reinstatement of field and works to fences and
gates.
Contract 5: restoration of 1899 tearoom (the „Aviary‟).
Contract 6: construction of new restaurant, glasshouse, north
entrance, teaching studio and external works on the former nursery
site. Associated works included replacing the feed to the lake,
replacing East Lodge foul drainage, partly removing post-1903
extensions of the riverbank, and „tidying up‟ the 1903 boat pass on the
north side of Mill Bridge. In parallel, WDC appointed a caterer for the
restaurant and the Aviary and negotiated the operation of the teaching
studio by Warwickshire College.
Contract 7: Jephson Gardens landscape renewal. Principal elements
were resurfacing of existing paths, formation of disabled ramp, and
remodelling the Newbold Terrace entrance; miscellaneous planting. In
parallel, WDC arranged removal of certain trees and management of
others; and replaced gates at Newbold Terrace and Willes Road.
Contract 8 was in two parts: building works in the glasshouse; and
landscaping, which included rock and water features as well as
planting.
Phase 2 was completed in 2007, and included the remainder of path
resurfacing; floodlighting of selected features in Jephson Gardens;
augmented irrigation in the glasshouse; alterations to South Lodge for
a historical exhibition, supplemented by a new publication; and
interpretation in the glasshouse.
23
The following is a summary of the costs of the restoration works.
Cost
heading
Items listed as
approved cost
Final cost
as
currently
forecast
(Sept '03)
£
Contract 1
Restoration of
listed
monuments
Fountains
restoration &
lighting
Mill Gardens
boathouse
refurbishment
Mill Gardens
hard & soft
landscaping &
play area
Aviary'
restoration &
conversion
New-build
restaurant,
temperate house
& teaching space
Jephson Gardens
hard & soft
landscaping
Temperate
House
landscaping
Temperate
house internal
building, M&E &
ancillary works
Demolitions, Mill
Bridge
59,027
Contract 2
Contract 3
Contract 4
Contract 5
Contract 6
Contract 7
Contract 8a
Contract 8b
Other work
WDC costs
Provisional
sums
Fees
Contingency
VAT
TOTALS
67,307
54,093
195,303
111,987
2,430,019
540,000
189,150
250,046
61,628
47,072
345,065
4,350,697
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1.4.6 Significant features and compartments
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens contain many important features of
architectural, horticultural, and conservation merit. There are ten areas that
could be considered to be of different character, offering different user
experiences, which can be viewed as separate compartments. These are
similar to the individual areas described in the Restoration Plan, although the
description below is post-restoration.
The landscape characters of the Gardens have been assessed with main
features determining the character being:
Planting, in particular the mature tree planting
The landform and topography
The relationship to the river
Views and vistas around the Gardens
Access and path layouts
Buildings and structures
Activity areas
Jephson Gardens Glasshouse and Restaurant
25
Compartment 1 – The Lower Gardens
Characterised by formal bedding, a clear structure of footpaths and
furniture, with a backdrop of mature specimen trees. This area, which
includes the Main Walk, is one of the most viewed areas of the
Jephson Gardens, and the most popular sitting place. Historically this
area evolved as a formal feature and although the restoration has not
sought to recreate the later 19th Century layout, it does strive to
reinforce its character.
The North Lodge is currently used as an office by Kudos, who operates
the restaurants in the Glasshouse and the Pump Rooms, and the café
in the Aviary. The South Lodge houses an exhibition about the
Gardens‟ history and development, operated by Leamington History
Group volunteers. The facility is also used for meetings and talks.
Important features:
Hitchman Fountain - The Hitchman Fountain was erected in 1869 in
memory of Dr John
Hitchman, who was very active in the public
life of the town. Originally a single jet, the fountain was modified after
passers-by complained of getting soaked
Willes Obelisk- The obelisk, built in 1875, commemorates a local
landowner, the Rev
Edward Willes of Newbold Comyn. In 1834
he had the first gardens laid out as the Newbold Pleasure Grounds, a
commercial venture to serve visitors and new residents of the
developing spa.
The Arbour
Mature Trees – tree planting records go back to 1848 including the
present Quercus ilex
Floral bedding – first significant amount from 1875 onwards
Views to and within the Gardens
Hitchmans Fountain
26
Floral
Bedding
Compartment 2 – The Lake
This area is dominated by water, both the formal lake where fountains
provide a range of exciting textures and noises, and the very slow
flowing River Leam that forms the southern boundary of the Gardens.
Like compartment 1, this is an intensively used and viewed area as
visitors walk along the main walk, feed the geese, sit and view the
fountains, or glance into the gardens from the adjoining Parade and
Victoria Bridge.
Important features
Smoothly curving brick-edged lake – completed in 1847, and then
enlarged in 1880
The Fountains – Provided in 1925 and 1926
Trees – Oaks planted as part of the „Festival of Oaks‟ in 1847, Dawn
Redwood, Golden Bean Tree, Swamp Cypress, Grand Fir, etc.
Views – views to the river, town buildings including All Saints Church,
central footpath and floral displays
Lake Fountain and Glasshouse
and admiring the views
Relaxing
27
Compartment 3 – The Jephson Memorial and Rockery
This compartment is a small area located between the upper and lower
gardens, at the narrowest part of the Jephson Gardens. It is focused
around the Jephson Memorial Temple, with small-scale planting and
informal, meandering paths. The views to the Temple are largely
restricted until almost upon it. The seating around the Czech fountain
is well used, and a good vantage point with views back to the lake,
Willes Obelisk, and the Lower Gardens, although historic views are
much altered by the increased quantity of maturing trees. The steps of
the Temple are often climbed, and otherwise the area is used for
strolling.
Important features:
Jephson Memorial Temple
Dr Henry Jephson promoted the virtues of Leamington‟s spa waters in
Victorian times. Said to be strict but kindly, he was famous for his
treatments. The gardens were named in his honour in 1846, and the
Jephson Temple containing his statue was opened in 1849.
Czech Fountain – The Czechoslovakian Fountain was erected in 1968
commemorating seven Czech expatriates who in 1941 were
parachuted into their homeland to assassinate its SS „protector‟
successfully. The fountain forms a focal point on the main walk.
Trees – fine collection of trees, including impressive Coast Redwood,
Golden Rain Tree, Sawara Cypress, Lawson Cypress etc.
Views – mainly to the memorials, the Glasshouse and also the floral
displays
Jephson Temple
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Compartment 4 – The Restaurant, Glasshouse and Studio
The site of the former nursery, hosts the newest addition to the
Gardens. The bespoke contemporary Glasshouse contains a number of
facilities including a restaurant, tropical glass-house, classroom, and
exhibition space. It is designed with a westerly orientation, and with
sweeping steps that welcome visitors from the lower gardens. The
Glasshouse is open 6 days a week during the daytime for members of
the public. The restaurant has an arrangement during the evenings
when the park is closed, to hold functions in The Glasshouse, and have
the right to close it on Saturdays for weddings.
The Glasshouse exhibition space currently houses an environmental
exhibition about plants from around the world, and their uses and
history. It is closely linked with the plants that are contained within the
tropical house, and is viewed as an important educational resource for
the general public, and schools.
The southern end of this compartment extends to the top of the river
bank, where grass is mown short to permit views from the large
windows of the restaurant to the Mill Bridge and weir.
Important Features
Glasshouse and Restaurant - the contemporary new restaurant,
teaching studio, and sub-tropical glasshouse are on the site of a
redundant nursery. From small beginnings in the 1850s the nursery
grew to occupy the whole space between Mill Walk and the lakeside
path. Before it closed in 1994 the nursery grew the plants for all the
council‟s flower beds, as well as for indoor floral
decorations.
Visitors may enjoy delightful views of the gardens, Mill Bridge and weir
across the River Leam, and the adjoining Glasshouse. Exhibitions and
publications tell the story of plants and the history of the Gardens.
Views towards Mill Bridge and weir
29
Compartment 5 – Newbold Terrace Entrance
This compartment has been through a bold transition during
restoration, and is an important Garden resource in its own right as
well as an important entrance. The area is centred on the Davis Clock,
which is surrounded by a broad expanse of hard surfacing and low
shrub planting. Beyond the Clock is the Aviary Café that offers indoor
and outdoor seating providing refreshments, and is leased by the
same company who run the restaurant. Toilet facilities are also
provided in this area and are clean and well maintained, although
there are some negative issues regarding drug use. Some large
mature trees provide dense shade and views to the upper lawn and
river are reducing as memorial trees mature. There is a need to think
strategically about these trees for future management.
Important Features
Davis Clock - the Clock Tower, built in 1925, was given in memory of
Alderman William Davis JP, who had served three times as
Leamington‟s mayor.
Aviary (Refreshment Arbour)
In 1899 the permanent refreshment arbour or tea room was built. It
became redundant in the 1960‟s and was used as an aviary to house
birds. Known as the „Aviary‟ this has been superbly restored and
provides refreshments, complementing the Glasshouse Restaurant
service.
Toilets – old facilities replaced with new toilet block in 1996
Mature Trees – impressive Beech trees dominate this area.
Gee arbour – donated by a Mr Gee in the 1960‟s.
Davis Clock
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Compartment 6 – Riverside and Wood Walks
This compartment incorporates the low level area of land running
adjacent to the Leam River. The area has been largely reclaimed from
the original course of the river. The restoration scheme has had a
dramatic impact on its character, removing an old refreshment kiosk
and very urban landscape treatments at the river‟s edge, and replacing
this with open grassland and naturalistic marginal planting.
The woodland planting between the lower levels and upper levels is
mixed in age, species and structure. It fulfils a role as a transition
between formal and informal. The more recent tree establishment has
not proved successful both in tree species selection and survival with
little regard for the shrub and floral layer.
Important Features
East Lodge – constructed in 1847
Willes Road Entrance – constructed in 1847
Mature Trees
Views across the river to the boat house
across the river
East Lodge
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Views
Compartment 7 – The Upper Lawn
With the exception of the western end the Upper Lawn survives
relatively unchanged in layout from the earliest plan of the Gardens.
The large lawn was set out as an events area, and planting was
restricted to its perimeter in particular the north border running
parallel to Newbold terrace. The area is still used for large outdoor
events, and is an important open space in the Gardens, used at other
times for picnicking sunbathing, and recreation.
Attractive views are possible across the Gardens though the river is
out of sight in most instances, and thus the Mill Gardens appear to be
a continuation of a rolling park landscape. Views to the north, of the
villas along Newbold Terrace add to the historical integrity of the
garden.
Important Features
Mature Trees including the Blue Atlas Cedars
Views – Towards the Davis Clock, architecture of Newbold Terrace, Mill
Gardens
Expansive grassland suitable for events
Newbold border – a diverse range of special interest plants
Newbold border
Upper Lawn
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Compartment 8 – Mill Gardens
The Mill Gardens were laid out at the very end of the Victorian period
and completed in 1903. The simple design of a central open space for
winter ice skating and summer games, with an avenue of trees at the
southern end, was intended to form a visual backdrop to the Jephson
Gardens.
The layout remains largely unchanged today though levels have been
raised, the sluice for flooding the gardens has been removed, and
shrub and tree planting has matured with loss of some views.
The area receives far more local users than the Jephson Gardens and
is an important asset for the old town, and is rightly regarded as a
local amenity rather than a visitor attraction.
Important Features
Views towards neighbouring nature reserve, riverside and woodland
walks, Willes Bridge, and the residential housing on Willes Road.
Open space for local people to play – Opened in 1903
Mill Gardens Open Space
33
Compartment 9 – Boat House and Pond
The boating pond and boat house have been extensively restored and
now provide a very important asset for visitors and locals alike. The
bridge along the river side is designed to allow boat access to the River
Leam, and on summer days the pond and river are extremely busy
with rowing boats, canoes and pedalos.
The facility is run by Leam Boat Centre, which organises canoeing
holidays and training as well as boat hire on the river.
Important Features
Boating House and pond – Designed and constructed by 1903 to serve
for the boating needs of the public. Run down like the rest of the
Gardens, the now renovated boathouse and restored boating lake
provides paddle boating and canoeing to all.
Views – riverside views, Mill Gardens play area and open space.
Boathouse Mill Gardens
34
Compartment 10 – Mill Walk and Bridge, and Play Area
The Mill Walk and Bridge serves a very important link between the Old
and New Towns with Mill Walk in frequent use throughout the day.
There is an entrance to the Gardens in Compartment 6, but otherwise
the walk is confined by railings and walls, although views from the
bridge of the Jephson Gardens, downstream to the Victoria Bridge, and
upstream to the Willes Road Bridge are attractive. The bridge is
currently a well used place for feeding ducks, geese, and pigeons
which leads to a problem with litter and bird-mess.
The play facility is of a Neighbourhood Equipped Area of Play (NEAP)
standard, and offers a variety of equipment for different age groups. It
has a sea theme, and is well used by locals and visitors.
Important Features
Mill Walk and Bridge - designed and constructed by 1903
Play Area – opened in 2002
The first evidence of play area was in 1925 with a set of swings. This
area was set aside for local use. The play area has now been fully
refurbished and is very popular with children and parents, with a
large wooden
fishing
boat and a sand pit.
Elephant Walk – watering place opened in 1882
Play Area Mill Gardens
Mill
Walk
35
Figure 1.4.11 Important Built Features
36
1.4.7 Main uses
There are a variety of uses of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens, which have
been recorded as part of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens Customer
Satisfaction Survey.
As well as walking, relaxing, and using the gardens as a through route the
following activities have been recorded in a cloud diagram as part of the
most recent customer survey in summer 2012:
1.4.8 Who are the users?
A walk around Jephson Gardens at any time of day, at any time of the year,
will show that there are people from all walks of life using them. Some are
locals taking their children to feed the ducks; some are people who work in
Leamington eating their lunch on one of the many benches. Some are
international tourists stopping here before continuing with their visits
elsewhere in historic Warwickshire. Further details of who uses the Gardens
can be found from Customer Survey.
37
Section 2 - Analysis and Evaluation
This section sets out an analysis of the park focusing on its management,
maintenance and development.
The analysis and evaluation is based upon data from a number of sources,
which includes;
Section 1 above;
Community consultation including the Customer Survey
Consultation with Stakeholders;
Discussions with the key community groups;
Discussions with the staff involved in the park;
Previous Green Flag judging recommendations;
Conservation Management Plan;
Green Space Strategy for Warwick District 2012-2026
In order to provide a framework for the analysis the key criteria of the Green
Flag Award has been used. The award is a national quality standard for parks
and green spaces and is also an aspiration of the Council to achieve. Also, as
part of the HLF guidance on the production of management plans, there is a
clear requirement at stage 1 to provide “an analysis of this existing
management and maintenance against Green Flag Award standard criteria”.
The Gardens quality has been assessed on several separate site visits by
experienced Green Flag Award judges, as well an assessment made by
Warwick District Council Green Space Team and the Gardens Ranger
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2.1.1 A Welcoming Place
Signage
Informative signage was introduced in 2006 to three of the main entrances of
Jephson Gardens. These detail the location of all the main facilities and
features of the Gardens, with some historical interpretation. However not all
entrances have these signs, so additional signage should be introduced at
other entrance points where appropriate, e.g. Mill Gardens. Also „You are
here‟ logos should be added to signs to make it easier for visitors when
entering the Gardens.
There are directional finger posts within the Gardens, though it is
acknowledged that additional finger posts would be beneficial. These should
be of heritage style and in keeping with The Gardens. Also there is little
external brown signage to direct the public to The Gardens, and what does
exist is disjointed.
Recommendations
MP1 Introduce more entrance signage
MP2 Introduce „You are here‟ to all entrance signage
MP3 Introduce additional finger directional signage
MP4 Introduce external signage to The Gardens
Gateways
There are 5 entrances into Jephson Gardens and 3 public entrances into Mill
Gardens. All entrances are appropriately located, are gated, and offer good
access for all members of the public.
Public vehicular access is prohibited in both Gardens. Contractors use all
three gates to gain access to Jephson Gardens, and the gate off Willes Road
to gain access to Mill Gardens. Deliveries to the Restaurant and Aviary are by
manually-drawn trolley across Mill Bridge from a vehicle in Mill Road.
Parking
There is convenient and free on-street public parking in Newbold Terrace,
permitted for 2 hours or all day. Nearest pay-and-display parking is off
Rosefield Street (behind the Royal Spa Centre); St Peter‟s multi-storey has
greater capacity but is less convenient, as is on-street parking elsewhere.
There is no Park and Ride scheme for Leamington or the district.
Coach parties are set down and picked up in Newbold Terrace. It is believed
that since refreshment facilities were upgraded coach parties have visited
less often. It is understood that the caterer is promoting its facilities and the
Gardens to coach tour operators. Coach parking is said to be adequate for
current demand.
39
Road Crossings
The three roads that border Jephson Gardens all vary in their traffic
management. Newbold Terrace is a 30mph residential street, with parking
along one side. There is now a designated pedestrian crossing on this street,
which has improved accessibility to the Newbold entrance to the Gardens.
Willes Road is a 30mph street that runs past the eastern side of the Gardens.
There is a designated pedestrian crossing at the lower end of Willes Road and
pedestrians may cross at the light-controlled junction with Newbold Terrace.
Despite the Willes Road gates being the least used, a pedestrian crossing
would be helpful for access to and from the natural open spaces of Newbold
Terrace East and Welches Meadow.
The Parade running past the western side of the park does offer a variety of
crossing points for pedestrians. Formal crossings exist within 1 minute‟s walk
of the main entrance, and traffic despite being frequent is not very fast.
Traffic noise detracts from the experience of the lower Jephson Gardens.
Mill Road is a small residential road running alongside part of the southern
boundary to Mill Gardens, and adjoining the southern entrance. There are no
formal crossings; traffic is light. There are gates near the play area for
emergency access only from Mill Road.
Public Transport
Jephson and Mill Gardens are within a 10 minute walk of Leamington Spa
railway station, which is on busy routes between Birmingham, southern
England and London. Buses run from the station into the town centre. There
are various bus stops within very close proximity of the Gardens, and almost
all buses from adjoining villages and suburbs stop within easy walking
distance of the Gardens.
Cycling
Cycling in all parks is prohibited by byelaws (except on designated
cycleways); cyclists are required to dismount: some do, some don‟t. The ban
is advertised are the entrance signs and within byelaws posted in the notice
boards. As with all infringements of the byelaws, cycling can only be
challenged when the Ranger or other staffs encounter it.
One of the recommendations of the Councils Green Space Strategy is to
review the Council byelaws with respect to cycling, so as to encourage more
sustainable ways of travelling to and within green spaces.
Recommendations
MP5 Review the Councils byelaws with respect to cycling and see how this
relates to The Gardens
40
There is cycle storage outside the Royal Spa Centre and the Royal Pump
Rooms.
Appropriate Disabled Facilities
Despite the lack of a specific DDA Access Audit for the Gardens in general,
audits have been carried out on all buildings and the play facility in Mill
Gardens, receiving a compliant rating. As part of the HLF restoration DDA
was considered across the Gardens.
The landscape itself is level or of a slight gradient in all but one area, where
steps are supplemented with an inclined path that is suitable for wheel chair
users.
The sensory garden within the Gardens, near top The Davies Clock, is a
garden created to be accessible and enjoyable to visitors, both disabled and
non-disabled. The purpose of such a provision is to provide individual and
combined sensory opportunities for the user such that they may not normally
experience. Unfortunately it never worked successfully and is in poor
condition and therefore requires a rethink.
Recommendations
MP6 A complete redesign and replant of the sensory garden
Barriers to Use
Information is being gathered through a User Gardens survey to establish if
there are any barriers to use, but generally people safe using the Gardens.
Provision for Children and Young People
The play facility in Mill Gardens offers a variety of play equipment for
toddlers and juniors, and is regarded as a Neighbourhood Equipped Area of
Play (NEAP) for local and visitor use. A play area review carried out in 2012
has recommended that the play area will need refurbishing by the year 2016.
£100,000 has already been allocated as part of the Play Area Improvement
Programme. Play Area Inspections are included in Appendix B.
The
equipment is well used and appears popular with many children. Consistent
customer surveys would like to see swings introduced which are lacking at
present. There is also scope to develop play opportunities surrounding the
play area through appropriate landscaping.
Recommendations
MP7 Refurbish Mill Gardens play area and its surrounds by 2016
41
In the Jephson Gardens renewal project it was decided to remove formal
equipment (from the riverside area) and concentrate formal play facilities in
Mill Gardens. Observation shows that Jephson Gardens has many features
which appeal to children and young people; formal equipment is unnecessary
and inappropriate. However there is scope for introducing a sculpture trail,
particularly on the Upper Lawn, which will enhance the experience of all
visitors, including the young, and make more of an area which is less
frequently used. This sculpture trail could include a beech tree sculpture,
near The Davis Clock, which is being worked on now, and then others to be
added at a later date. The Gardens do lack certain facilities or activities for
teenagers but it is felt that these are better accommodated within the
neighbouring Victoria Park and Pump Room Gardens.
Recommendations
MP8 Introduce a sculpture trail on the Upper Lawn.
Seating
There is a plentiful supply of seating throughout Jephson Gardens, in good
condition and well spaced, though more could be accommodated along the
riverside path. Almost all benches are dedicated to someone under a
memorial scheme, which includes the provision of a brass plaque or an
inscription routed in the wood. Prospective donors are offered one style of
bench under the „Park your Seat‟ scheme. The notion of modernising and
standardising seating has occasionally been aired but the practical difficulties
have not been solved. Mill Gardens has an adequate number of seats. The
supply of benches has been reliant on donations and this appears to be a
satisfactory way of sustaining the correct number of benches as old benches
need replacing, and without the Gardens feeling cluttered. All benches are
sourced from sustainable forests.
Recommendations
MP9 Introduce more benches to riverside path.
Staff
Due to the complex nature and high standard of presentation of The
Gardens, there is nearly always a staff presence. The grounds maintenance
contractor has at least two staff permanently on site between the hours of
8am and 4pm, and they are expected to be courteous and as helpful as
possible. Under the new grounds maintenance contract this level of staffing
will be continued and there will be additional resources for litter picking.
The present Garden Ranger‟s role encompasses the many other roles that a
person in uniform attracts. From providing directions, to historical
interpretation the Ranger is always approachable.
42
2.1.2 Healthy, Safe, and Secure
Warwick District Council has made a concerted effort to ensure that the users
of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens feel safe and secure. Prior to
restoration, there were a number of issues regarding safety, such as groups
of homeless, unemployed and youths drinking on park benches, rough
sleepers, graffiti and vandalism of Gardens property, and the use of drugs in
the toilets. The restoration scheme sought through better design to improve
sightlines to discourage anti-social behavior, and reduce the threat and fear
of physical attacks. Both sites are locked at night, with access to the
restaurant monitored. Gates have been added to both arbours, an effective
measure against antisocial behavior, but regrettable in that it deprives
visitors of sheltered seating, except when the Ranger is present to unlock
them.
These measures have proved to be successful with a decrease in reported
incidents in the Gardens, and it is now a task for management to ensure that
this level of safety is sustained.
Public Safety
Public safety is managed by Neighborhood Services in partnership with the
Councils Health and Safety Advisor. The following briefly summarises the
management regimes in place within the Gardens
Risk Assessments
Matters relating to public safety such, as trees and play within the Gardens
are risk assessed on a regular basis. A sample risk assessment for play is
shown in Appendix B. A generic risk assessment of the Gardens is also
carried out on an annual basis, with control measures put in place.
All staff are made aware of the Councils Health and Safety Policy and this
forms part of the staff induction procedure. Staff Guidance and Policies are
accessible in paper form and online on the Councils Corporate Intranet for all
employees. Within this guidance is a formal system of risk assessments to be
carried out both for locations and activities.
The following is a list of inspection regimes for the Gardens.
A generic risk assessment is carried out and recorded in the Gardens
annually and then recorded on the Councils Risk Management system
known as Assnet.
Grounds maintenance risk assessments are carried out by the
contractor and reviewed in cooperation with the Councils officers. Any
problems may be reported by the gardening team and other workers
to the contractor‟s management and Council officers.
Currently play areas are inspected to a formal weekly visual inspection
and then a more thorough monthly functional inspection by the
43
grounds maintenance contractor play inspector, and all inspections,
defects and rectifications are recorded. A similar practice will be
undertaken under the new grounds maintenance contract. Any issues
that require immediate attention are dealt with there and then and
made safe. Other rectifications are prioritized. Any other members of
staff observing a defect will report them either to the Ranger or
grounds maintenance contractor..
The parks infrastructure is formerly inspected and recorded on an
annual basis by the Councils Engineering section. Any issues that
compromise safety are dealt with immediately. Other rectifications are
prioritized.
Trees are inspected once every three years throughout the Gardens by
an external contractor. This tree survey will shortly be transferred to
The Councty Council. Any issues that compromise safety are dealt with
immediately. Other rectifications are prioritized. Any other members of
staff observing a defect will report them either to Councils
arboricultural officer. Other informal inspections are carried by the
ranger of contractor and the Councils officer.
Water from the lakes is sampled if a risk of an algal bloom is identified
and an independent analysis carried out. Pollution incidents are dealt
within in conjunction with Environment Agency.
There is a Report It system on the Councils website that encourages
the public to report any problems online and these are issued to the
relevant section and auctioned appropriately as part of a formal,
recorded, reporting system.
Summary of Reporting and Emergency Procedures
The public are able to report accidents or near misses involving themselves
or incidents they may witness. In addition members of the public can pass on
information at the nearest Council building, by telephone, e-mail or by filling
in a Councils Report Form „Health and Safety Enquiry Form‟. On receipt of an
accident or incident report a site visit and investigation is undertaken to
identify wherever possible the cause, determine the likelihood of
reoccurrence and the appropriate remedial action.
Summary of Insurance Details
Warwick District Council holds appropriate levels of public liability insurance
with Zurich Municipal. Accidents/incidents are reported to our insurers as
required.
Compliance with health and safety at work (1974 and Subsequent Acts)
Staffs involved in the management and maintenance of the park do so in full
compliance with current health and safety legislation. The corporate Health
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and Safety Policy defines the responsibilities of all those involved. Below is
summarized the key mechanisms utilized to ensure that all legislation is
complied with.
Risk assessments
Undertaken for all areas of work to identify hazards and ensure control
measures are in place and effective. These risk assessments are reviewed on
annual basis, with control measures being adapted where required. Further
Health and Safety documentation can be found in Appendix C.
Site and work inspections
Both the workplace and the method of working are checked on a regular
basis to ensure that operations are completed in accordance with the risk
assessment. Non-compliance is reported with remedial action to ensure
future compliance.
COSHH Assessments (Control of substances hazardous to health)
All substances of this nature are risk assessed and appropriate control
measures implemented.
Training and equipment
All staff are trained in the use of equipment and plant in variety of
environments and provided with personal protective clothing and equipment
as identified in the relevant risk assessment. Plant and equipment is regularly
checked and maintained in accordance with manufacturer‟s specifications.
Professional training includes that required by legislation.
Reporting and monitoring
Staff or contractors are expected to report accidents or near misses as
quickly as possible to their line manager to allow prompt investigation and
remedial action. Accidents to employees are recorded in an accident book
and reported to the Health and Safety Executive if required by legislation.
The grounds maintenance contractor monitors accidents and near misses
with appropriate remedial action taken to prevent future occurrences. Health
and Safety is a fixed agenda item in all meetings with the Council and its
partners.
Review of Health and safety Mechanisms
The Corporate Health and Safety Officer and the Members/Trades Union Joint
Consultation and Safety Panel meet on a regular basis to review the Health
and Safety arrangements for both the workplace and the public. This ensures
that all mechanisms comply with the current legislation.
Site specific Health and Safety
Toilet Facilities
There are toilet facilities, built 1996, in the centre of Jephson Gardens and
these cater for male, female, disabled, and baby-changing. They are locked
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at night along with the rest of the park. They are cleaned daily, and checked
frequently by the Gardens‟ Ranger. There are occasional instances where the
toilets have been observed to have been used for drug taking, and by
shoplifters from town sorting through stolen items. These incidences are
small in number and the site staff takes every opportunity to provide a
presence around the facility. There are toilets available in the restaurant, and
in Mill Gardens boathouse when open.
Drinking Water
Both the restaurant and Aviary café provide drinking water, and there is
always at least one facility open.
There is a drinking fountain associated with the Czech fountain but the water
supply has been disconnected. It was closed by Warwick District Council
Environmental Health because of concerns over the quality and safety of the
water. Due to its design the fountain is not easily adaptable to become
usable again, and so for that reason will remain disconnected.
Lifebelts
Following the recommendations of an independent water safety review of the
District water courses within parks, it has been decided that there are to be
no lifebelts along the banks of any of the three water bodies. This is the
pragmatic policy of the District Council. In the past lifebelts were provided,
but would become vandalized, stolen or found floating in the water. People
are now discouraged from gaining close access to the waterside through the
design and management of the water‟s edge.
Ranger Service
To satisfy a condition of the lottery award a ranger service was introduced for
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens in 2002. The current post holder is
employed by Action 21. She is able to call upon assistance from the Police
and CCTV Operators by radio, and offers a formal security presence. Both the
caterers and boat house have a line of communication to the Gardens
Ranger.
The ranger role fulfills duties other than just a presence, and includes such
duties as community engagement and education. See Section 2.1.8 on
Management for further details. Security arrangements are now advertised to
visitors by notices within the information boards, which also contain contact
details.
The ranger is presently located at East Lodge but plans are in place to
transfer to South Lodge where she will have a more visible presence.
Recommendations
MP10 Relocate the Ranger from East Lodge to South Lodge
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CCTV
There are CCTV cameras located in four places in and around Jephson
Gardens, although none are available to view Mill Gardens. On site, there are
cameras covering the Restaurant and Glasshouse, the main walk as far as
the toilets and the Davis Clock, lower Mill Passage and Mill Bridge. There is
CCTV located on Newbold Terrace outside of the Gardens entrance, which is
able to view the toilets and the Aviary Café. The fourth camera is in the lower
Parade. The latter two are seldom directed into the Gardens, but regular
surveillance could be requested. This number of cameras appears to work
well and is adequate.
Even though CCTV coverage is good within The Gardens there is a blind spot
within The Glasshouse where anti social behaviour has been a problem. The
need for CCTV within South Lodge needs to be investigated, especially when
the ranger is relocated and will be working on her own.
Recommendations
MP11 Investigate the provision of CCTV at The Glasshouse and South Lodge
Alcohol, Illegal Substance Misuse and Anti Social Behavior
There was a frequency of such behavior in the Gardens prior to the
restoration, but reported incidents have dropped since. There is clear signage
prohibiting the consumption of alcohol and related behavior on site, and the
Ranger deals in a subtle but effective manner with any people breaking the
byelaws.
Control of Dogs
Dogs are allowed in both Gardens but are required to be kept on leads in
both. Further details have already been covered in section 1.3.3.
Out of Hours Service
The Council operates an out of hours service, especially at weekends for any
emergencies, e.g. if a tree were to fall over and become a health and safety
issue. It is presently unclear of the contact details for public, facility
operators and community groups, and the ranger on who to contact in such
situations.
Recommendations
MP12 Provide out of hours details to the Ranger, facility operators and
contractors and promote these to the public and all other interested parties.
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2.1.3 Clean and Well Maintained
Grounds Maintenance
Jephson and Mill Gardens are maintained under one grounds maintenance
contract, currently with Glendale Grounds Management but this will change
from April 2013 to English Landscapes. The new contract is to be frequency
based rather than the current performance based contract. The same
contractors are responsible for most WDC open space maintenance in the
District. A copy of the new maintenance schedule is included in Appendix D,
together with list of features to maintain under the contract, and a colored
Maintenance Plan showing what is to be maintained.
Standards have generally been good since the opening of the refurbished
Gardens in 2003, but standards have dropped in more recent years mainly
horticultural shrub areas.
Due to the change in grounds maintenance contractor in April 2013 it is
envisaged that there will be handover and „bedding in‟ time required by the
new contractor and for that reason more Council officer time will be required
to support this change.
Recommendations
MP13 Provide Council Officer contract management support for the new
grounds maintenance from April – June 2013.
The total costs for grounds maintenance in 2012/2013 for both Jephson and
Mill Gardens is 98,691.95. A breakdown of these costs is shown in the
following table. (Under the new contract from April 2013 these figures will
change)
Item
Location
Bedding
Jephson Garden
Litter and Dog Bins
Jephson Garden
Furniture
Jephson Garden
Gates
Jephson Garden
Grass
Jephson Garden
Paths
Jephson Garden
Shrubs, Herbaceous Borders,
Jephson Garden
Hedges and Wall Plants
Open Buildings and Gutters
Jephson Garden
Fountains and Waterbodies
Jephson Garden
Sub-Total Jephson Garden Grounds Maintenance
Value
Litter and Dog Bins
Furniture
Gates
Mill Gardens
Mill Gardens
Mill Gardens
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Value (£)
28,991
3,475
1,367
4,547
11,347
3,071
34,399
369
2,321
89,877
1047
20.17
1,705
Grass
Mill Gardens
Paths
Mill Gardens
Shrubs and Hedges
Mill Gardens
Play Area
Mill Gardens
Waterbodies
Mill Gardens
Sub-Total Mill Gardens Grounds Maintenance
Value
Grand Total Grounds Maintenance Value
4,896
610
6825
2941
258
18,302
108,179
Litter management
Litter has been problematic with Gardens over recent years, especially at
busy periods of the year and at weekends, due to inefficient resources from
the current grounds maintenance contractor. This has now been addressed in
the new contract by having more resources and seven day a week service.
The teams employed will also be more reactive when required.
Equipment Maintenance
Under the current and future terms and conditions of the grounds
maintenance contract, the Contractor is responsible for ensuring that all of
their equipment is running in a safe and efficient manner, and fit for the
purpose it is intended for. The Contractor is expected to keep up-to-date
records of vehicle and equipment maintenance and to be able to show a clear
order of regular maintenance checks.
Staffs are trained in the appropriate safe use and maintenance of equipment.
Training certificates are held in individual employees personnel files. Safe
systems of work are written for equipment and there is an agreed service
schedule for all equipment used on site.
All play equipment is regularly inspected with weekly and monthly reports on
a computerized management system. An annual independent inspection is
also carried out. Any minor repairs are dealt with immediately, and all others
are prioritized.
Horticultural Maintenance
Within Jephson Gardens there is a significant range of horticultural displays
ranging from informal shrubberies to formal bedding. The design and types
of permanent planting were part of the restoration plan for the HLF project.
There are significant horticultural features within the Gardens including floral
displays, tree collection, herbaceous and shrub borders, exotic plants within
the Glasshouse all of which have gained praise from Britain in Bloom judges
and members of the public.
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Some of the permanent planting displays have started to decline and in some
local areas are in poor condition. This includes some of the shrub areas, the
butterfly garden and Glasshouse plant material.
Recommendations
MP14 Regenerate the poorer quality permanent planting displays in The
Gardens with more sustainable and wildlife friendly planting.
Children’s Play Area
The play area contains a range of equipment serving both toddlers and
juniors. It is inspected and maintained in accordance with European
Standards. These inspections identify and prioritize remedial works. An
independent inspection is also carried out on annual basis, which also makes
specific recommendations where required. The play area is enclosed being
adjacent to a watercourse.
Graffiti and vandalism
The level of graffiti and vandalism is low in the Gardens. Under the new
contract there are adequate resources to address graffiti when it becomes
apparent. The Ranger has been given further powers to report graffiti direct
rather than through the Green Space Development Officer.
Generally graffiti that contains offensive, sexual, or racial material will be
removed within 24 hours. Other graffiti will be removed within 7 working
days.
Buildings and Infrastructure Maintenance
Cleaning of the public conveniences is undertaken by the contractor Sita, on
a daily basis by a mobile team. This will change under a new contract from
April 2013.
The restoration programme, now fully implemented, means that the vast
majority of features in the park are in good condition with a few exceptions.
A formal condition audit is undertaken on a once a year basis, which is
supplemented by daily inspections completed by the staff based on site.
These inspections identify and prioritise remedial works. A sample park
inspection sheet is shown in Appendix E. The Buildings and Infrastructure
Planned Maintenance schedule can be found in Appendix F.
The resin bonded path network has caused maintenance problems and have
been on rolling programme of improvements.
Regular inspections are carried out by qualified and experienced council
officers and a reporting system ensures that any issues are acted on.
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2.1.4 Sustainability and Environmental Management
Warwick District Council has a commitment to sustainability. The authority
recognises the impact its operations have on the environment and is
committed to reviewing its working practices and developing policies that
protect the environment.
Grounds Maintenance contract
The grounds maintenance contract specifies certain contract conditions with
respect environmental management. This includes any breach of
environmental legislation, use of vehicles, peat alternatives and herbicide
usage. The contractor has a corporate Environmental Policy, Environmental
Strategy and Environmental Management System which fulfils all of the
Council‟s requirements.
Pesticide usage
The Council Policy aims to minimize the use of chemicals covered by COSHH
with a view to reducing the risk of harmful pollution these can cause.
The Council will only use chemicals covered by COSHH where no pesticide
alternative exists. The Council will maintain processes which ensure
compliance with the COSHH regulations and which minimize the risk of
accidents with the potential to cause pollution.
The grounds maintenance contract specification allows for the use of
herbicides, pesticides and fungicides where this considered being the most
appropriate method of control in line with the Council‟s policy. However the
use of pesticides in the Gardens does not form part of the regular
maintenance operations, apart from the spraying of the paths which uses a
glyphosate product. All beds are now mulched using chipped material or
leaves. No residual chemicals are used at all.
The contractor has an approved pesticides list which is regularly updated and
made available to the Councils officers. The use of Casoron has been stopped
in the Gardens, as it was felt that it had an impact on shrub growth, vigor
and health. Leaf mulch is now encouraged.
Chemical usage on the grassed areas has been reduced, and is only used to
treat the main lawn with selective herbicides for moss Qualgex (the active
ingredient is Dialkyldimethyl ammonium chloride) and weed killer MCPA (the
active ingredient being Mecoprop-p & Dicamba).
Chemicals were once used to control the algae levels in the lake, but this has
now stopped and is now controlled successfully by barley straw.
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Peat Free Usage and Floral Displays
The Council and the grounds maintenance contractor are presently working
with their plant material supplier Bagington Nurseries to reduce the volume
of peat used and to increase the volume of peat alternatives.
All parties recognized that under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (Lowland
Raised Bog Habitat), that there was a Government target to produce 90%
peat free sustainable alternatives by 2010, which was very welcome.
However even though this target was never met the Council is looking to find
an alternative quality product that is required within the Gardens. The
nursery is continuing to develop and trial new mixes and looks to DEFRA and
industry for guidance.
That said, all floral fountains have peat free compost, the six bales of peat
used for the ericaceous beds have now been withdrawn, and it was always
intended to reduce the floral bedding area within the Gardens by 50% as part
of the HLF restoration, which was achieved.
Recommendations
MP15 Ensure that the Council supports the Government commitment to
reducing peat use.
Any replacement shrubs are to come with peat free compost. Where
appropriate bare root stock plant material is used, and also the use of
transplanted material from the Gardens. The Council now requests that its
grounds maintenance contractor to reduce grass collection by 50% cut and
fly and the remainder collected. In very dry times grass is not collected at all.
The large volumes of leaves that accumulate on footpaths and grass areas
are offered to local allotment societies for mulching. This has proved
particularly successful and will continue to be offered in future years. Where
leaves are not taken up by the allotments they are taken to the depot for
composting. Previously leaves were removed from shrub beds to sanities the
borders. However the leaves are no longer removed and are left as nature
intended.
All other green waste is taken to the grounds maintenance contractors depot
and returned to the District where required. Only organic fertilizers are used
on grass and bedding. Recycled mushroom compost to the flower beds as a
soils improver, rather than peat.
Some of the annual bedding within the formal gardens has now been
replaced with more permanent planting. This has been an exercise in
promoting sustainability as well the Council identifying efficiency gains.
Many of the floral plants are offered to the public free of charge once the
beds have been stripped, and only organic fertilizers are applied to the beds.
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The Council is now adopting less intensive maintenance regimes within its
parks, to benefit wildlife and where it is appropriate.
Recycling of waste
Recycling bins have been introduced into The Gardens but more could be
added to replace the existing general litter bins.
Recommendations
MP16 Introduce more recycling bins to The Gardens
Energy and natural resource usage
The spend per year on energy use is monitored against service meter i.e.
gas, water and electric in order to pick up trends and discrepancies. That is,
all sites are logged and each time a bill is paid it can easily be compared to
accounts paid for the same period in previous years.
The use of solar energy has not been explored for The Gardens though it is
acknowledged there may be planning issues in a Grade II listed garde.
Recommendations
MP17 Explore the use of solar panels for The Gardens
Water usage by the contractor is relatively unknown but there may be waste
through operative behavior.
Recommendations
MP18 Monitor operative usage of water when watering plants
Water harvesting from the buildings should also be looked explored.
Recommendations
MP19 Explore water harvesting opportunities
Arboriculture and Woodland Management
Jephson Gardens has an important tree collection with over 140 species,
originating from many parts of the world, with many dating from the
Victorian period or early twentieth century. Some of these are the finest
examples in Warwickshire and have national significance. Some of the tree
species are surprisingly rare, including the Brewer Spruce and the Great
White Cherry. The veteran trees provide old tree habitat and landscape
character. These trees should be retained to their maximum safe biological
life through sensitive management, and tree surgery undertaken where
essential.
The trees are surveyed on a three year cycle and the information from these
surveys is used to inform future management. It is acknowledged that there
are some poorly positioned trees, mainly those that block keys views, trees
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planted too closely together, or of an inappropriate species for their location,
that should be removed or relocated. With regard to memorial trees, it is
Council policy to no longer provide memorial plaques to trees within the
Gardens, as it is felt that they distract from the visual appeal of the trees and
Gardens, and therefore a remembrance book has been compiled for old and
new memorial trees.
There has been a disjointed approach to both tree planting and tree
management over the years, which has helped to erode the original historical
tree layout. This was partly addressed through the new tree planting and
tree removal as part of the HLF restoration, however there still requires a
more long term strategic approach to managing the trees. Therefore to
address this issue a tree management plan should be developed
Recommendations
MP20 Ensure the health and longevity of existing trees with any potentially
dangerous trees being removed by delivering the maintenance programme.
MP21 Develop a tree management plan.
2.1.5 Conservation and Heritage
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens are part of the Leamington Spa Gardens
group, registered as Grade II. There are 7 listed structures within the
Gardens, and numerous others within close proximity of the site.
The lottery-funded renewal scheme retained and restored the traditional
character and layout of the Gardens. Some changes were subtle, others bold,
but always justified by analysis of the history, and modern usage. The
effectiveness and appropriateness of aspects of the scheme will be reviewed,
and any proposed changes consulted on as necessary. The maintenance of
these features has been previously reviewed under the section Clean and
Well Maintained.
The Gardens are within an urban area but have linkages with other
significant ecologically friendly green space that surround Leamington,
including woodlands, meadows and the countryside. The River Leam comes
through the Gardens and links to other neighboring linear green spaces
including a nature reserve.
The Gardens are very formal and „gardenesque‟ and there are few informal
areas; given this and the historic importance of the landscape of the Gardens
it is not appropriate to establish extensive „wild areas‟ as this would detract
greatly from its formal character. However this is not to say the Gardens
have no value for wildlife or that its value cannot be enhanced.
As part of the survey work undertaken to support the development of the
restoration proposals an ecological survey took place in the Gardens in 1997.
This has enabled the Council to implement a structured approach to
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biodiversity improvements, mainly the river corridor and wooded area, since
these are regarded as having „a high nature conservation priority‟
Although the Gardens occupy a large area, most of it is ornamentally
managed; the presence of established habitats including two UK and
Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull BAP habitats (Parks and Open spaces
and Rivers and Streams) is of significance within the urban context of the
site and the built environment. The river and the Gardens trees create
important wildlife corridors to neighboring greenspaces and areas of the
town.
It is recognised through Warwickshire Wildlife Trusts surveys that there are
some significant faunal species supported by the site (including European
and UK protected species) and UK BAP Priority Species, namely bat and otter
which will need careful management. In addition populations of rare species
including Kingfishers have been observed within the Gardens.
There has been a need to control various vermin within the Gardens to
enhance the wildlife value of the Gardens. Pigeons have historically stripped
bedding, seed sources and other vegetation. Control measures have been
limited, though the use of a hawk and the discouragement of feeding have
been two other proactive measures to control pigeon numbers.
Squirrels are actively controlled within the Gardens by removing drays by
physical means. Mink control has been less successful, though the Council is
working with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to develop and locate a more
successful trap, and research continues.
Geese have traditionally been a problem within the Gardens both in numbers
and the destruction they can cause, by eating much of the vegetation. The
use of low fencing, vegetation management to control movement has been of
great success. The geese are now limited to the lake and the island for
nesting. Having a limited nesting area means it is now easier to manage and
control the geese eggs, and has resulted in the numbers being reduced by
about 50, and at the same time encouraging the number of mallard ducks.
Pigeon control seems an important issue for The Gardens users as identified
in customer surveys. Gardening staff and the Ranger are proactive in
discouraging the public to feed both pigeons and geese, but other control
measures should be investigated.
Recommendations
MP22 Revisit current pest control measures to see how effective they are.
The Glasshouse pests are biologically controlled rather than using chemicals.
These generally work with some degree of success but there is a need to
review practice to see if there are better and more effective ways of
controlling pests.
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Recommendations
MP23 Review biological control of pests in The Glasshouse
A water bird feeding station has been designed, manufactured and installed
for wild birds to the lake. Set within the water it is intended to discourage
pigeon, squirrels, mink and rat but to encourage and target more indigenous
bird species. Any surplus feed that drops from the table will feed ducks. The
bird feed is topped by Glendale staff on a regular basis.
To encourage greater aquatic biodiversity within the lake, barley straw is
introduced, which reduces algae build and toxins.
Through observations otter movement has benefited by now permanently
opening up the flume section to the weir.
Biodiversity enhancements were part of the HLF restoration and included the
establishment of marginal planting to the riverbank. Management includes
the need for this to be maintained to an acceptable height. At the same time
this planting has stabilized the banks.
The woodland area is also managed for wildlife with ground vegetation left as
tall herbage and only cut once a year, after it has served as a seed source to
birds within the Gardens.
The rockeries provide shelter for small creatures, which like nooks and
crannies, such as spiders and bumblebees.
Within 2008 a summer meadow was introduced to the Gardens on a south
facing bank to the rear of the Aviary. Now established this serves as nectar
source for a vast range of insect species, but also providing colour and
interest.
Swans offer a different challenge for management both on the lake and the
riverbank. The lake island was re-vegetated 10 years ago and the river island
in 2007/2008 to encourage swans by over planting with native species and
fenced to stabilize the soils. This provides a better nesting site for swans and
ducks. Straw bales are introduced to both islands to encourage successful
nesting for swans, unlike in the past when the birds nested on the banks
which was not ideal for the birds, the public and become a maintenance
problem.
The herbaceous borders and butterfly nectar garden again add wildlife value
to the Gardens, the latter being a project for which the Butterfly
Conservation Group were actively involved. The bedding plants, where
appropriate, also provide a nectar source with a reduction of the use of
sterile bedding plant variety.
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The Gardens provide valuable green space in the centre of town that can be
used by wildlife such as birds, small mammals and invertebrates. Because of
the extensive planting of trees in the Gardens and within the town centre
these provide habitats for wildlife. The Gardens are closely linked to Crabtree
Meadow, Welches Meadow and Leam Valley Nature Reserve which are locally
important wildlife areas. The links between the Gardens and these other
areas are strengthened by the corridors of street trees such as Newbold
Terrace and the predominately large garden areas close to the park.
The trees and shrubbery in the Gardens offer roosting and nesting sites for
birds as well as being a source of food. The diversity in the height and types
of trees has been shown to be important at providing a variety of niches for
bird species and the maintenance of a diversity of age groups and species of
tree will retain this balance.
Mature trees are also important for bat species. Trees will also most certainly
be used as roosts during the summer. There are known bat roosts at Willes
Road Bridge and this is close enough for bats to visit the Gardens for feeding
at night. In particular the lake and river are sufficiently large to attract
Daubenton bats, which feed from insects close to the surface of the water.
Bird boxes were reassessed in 2008 for condition, and it was decided that a
new more sustainable Woodcrete type which will last for 25 years, be
introduced rather than replacing them on a regular basis. The new method of
fixing has also been introduced which benefits both tree and box when the
tree grows and expands in girth. There are 24 boxes in total all of different
types for different bird species, including boxes for different species of tits,
nuthatches, sparrow, starling and various others.
Deadwood in trees and on the ground is important for invertebrate, fungi and
for recycling of nutrients. However in the Gardens the management of
deadwood for wildlife poses a dilemma. The ideal situation is not to intervene
with deadwood, i.e. to leave dead trees and leave any wood where it falls;
this type of management would come into conflict with the formal nature of
the Gardens. However some deadwood will be left in the Gardens in less
formal areas and deadwood in trees will only be removed where it is an
unacceptable risk.
The 3 yearly tree surveys will help to maintain a healthy tree stock. The
future management of the tree stock, through replanting and enhancement
of the existing trees will need to take into account the wildlife value, at the
same time the historical design of the park and climate change.
The Council works with others such as Leamington Boat club in removing
litter on the river margins, with interpretation through guided walks by The
Guild of Guides, and Warwickshire County Council on tree walks.
The conservation of the Gardens‟ property, infrastructure and landscape were
addressed as part of the HLF restoration, and are now assured through
57
regular inspection, reactive and planned maintenance of the Gardens, as
detailed under the „Clean and Well Maintained‟ section.
However the future of East Lodge is less certain. Action 21 wishes to move
out of East Lodge from 2015 due to the rental costs and that they have
alternative office accommodation. Therefore an alternative use needs to be
found from 2015.
In the meant time The East Lodge gardens have been neglected due to the
lack of volunteers available. Therefore the future of gardens needs to
reviewed and how whether it should be made available to the public.
Recommendations
MP24 Find alternative use of East Lodge by 2015
Recommendations
MP25 Review the future of East Lodge gardens.
2.1.6 Community Involvement
Consultation
It is well recognized that for any park to be successfully managed it must
respond to the needs of the local community and park users, and this means
that The Green Space Team must actively engage and involve the local
community in the development of green space. There was significant
consultation undertaken as part of the HLF restoration programme for the
Gardens. The results of this consultation formed the basis of the proposed
restoration plan submitted to the HLF.
Further consultation is undertaken in the Gardens by the use of „Jephson
Gardens and Mill Gardens User Survey‟ see Appendix G. This survey is to
establish user needs, issues and desires for the Gardens. The Council is keen
to understand and address community needs. It is intended to analyze the
results of the survey at the end each summer and then incorporate its
findings into the management plan as part of the review process in the
autumn of each year. Therefore the results of the survey from summer 2012
have been incorporated into this revision.
The main findings from this recent survey have included the following
Reduce the number of pigeons
Increase the number of bins and better management of litter
Continue work to reduce anti-social behavior
New interpretation boards
Recommendations
MP26 Consult with Garden users twice a year.
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Involvement
Involvement during the restoration from members of the public, and groups
such as the Central Leamington Residential Society was essential, and helped
enormously in developing the restoration plan.
Since the Gardens opening in 2003 there are many active groups and
individuals who get involved in using the Gardens and its facilities, mainly on
a voluntary basis. The following is a summary of those groups, and describes
the activities they are involved in, and the benefits they give to the Gardens
and those involved.
Leamington History Group
The Leamington History Group is run by volunteers who meet on every fourth
Monday of every month at the South Lodge, Jephson Gardens. The group
maintains a social history community archive, using images from the local
area, photos from family albums and personal collections all copied to an
image database. They have an expanding website, compiled their first book
„People and Places‟ and regular give talks and presentations on various
subjects, including the Gardens, at the South Lodge. The group has exciting
plans and wishes to develop its presence within the Gardens, by using the
South Lodge as a „drop in‟ point for the group, and at the same time steward
the exhibition and interpretation on offer at the South Lodge, with the benefit
of the building being open to the public on a more regular basis than is
present, including the summer months weekdays, weekends and Bank
Holidays.
Local photographic Society
This is a club whose aim is to serve anyone who is interested in photography
in the area of Royal Leamington Spa. They welcome anyone, whatever their
level of achievement or their aspirations in photography. They use many of
the parks and open spaces within Leamington Spa for material, but as a
project in 2007 they photographed both the Jephson Gardens and Mill
Gardens, portraying its heritage value, facilities and attractions. A copy of
this is available on CD.
The Guild of Guides
For over 20 years, members of the Royal Leamington Spa Guild of Guides
have lead free evening walks around Leamington, and in particular the
Gardens, during the summer months. Aimed at both local and visitors to the
area, the walks last about an hour and half, and take a leisurely route around
some of the town‟s historic features. They start from the Jephson Gardens
Parade entrance, and walk through the Gardens and the attractions it has on
offer. They attract many community groups within the area, e.g. local
Women‟s Institute groups, and are offer informal but informative walks by
59
local people. They offer more walks in conjunction with the Heritage Open
days. As of February 2013 the Leamington History Group are considering
taking over these guided walks.
South Warwickshire Health Walks
South Warwickshire Health Walks is a programme of walks offered
throughout the summer months between May and October that are organized
in partnership by Age Concern Warwickshire, Senior Peoples‟s Forum and
Action 21. Their aim is to promote walking as a free, healthy, and
environmentally friendly form of transport and exercise. They organize
programmes of regular short „health walks‟ open to the public in local beauty
spots, including the Gardens. The walk leaves Jephson Gardens, Parade
entrance and last approximately an hour and is accessible to push chairs and
wheel chairs.
Tree Guide Walks
Steve Falk of Warwickshire County Council, Museums Service, organizes tree
walks around the Gardens throughout the year offering an informative walk
on the value of trees. There is a selection of walks all offering differing
experiences. There purpose is to share the tree heritage in an accessible way
and to enable visitors to appreciate the quality and variety of the collection.
Artists in the lodge
Artists in the lodge are local artists who have used the South Lodge, Jephson
Gardens, as a venue to display their own art in the Warwickshire Arts Week,
but at the same promote the Gardens for its heritage value by supporting the
permanent exhibition and providing information to the public. This has
proved very successful and there is an opportunity to repeat this in future
years
„A Walk Around Victorian Leamington Spa‟ Website
'A Walk Around Victorian Leamington Spa‟ is an educational website primarily
aimed at KS2 school children and was developed by Leamington Spa Art
Gallery & Museum in partnership with Heritage Education, Warwickshire
County Council. Funding for the website came from the Heritage Lottery
Fund.
The website www.windowsonwarwickshire.org.uk can be used as a flexible
tool before or after a school walk around Leamington Spa. It‟s designed to be
used in conjunction with a class visit to the Leamington Spa Art Gallery &
Museum, and the Gardens as an historic resource, where children can take
part exploring in more depth the history of the town. 'A Walk Around
Victorian Leamington Spa‟ website was created with help from Year 4 at
60
Shrubland Street Primary School, Leamington The majority of objects and
documents featured in this website are from the collections of the
Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum and Warwickshire County Record
Office.
The website can be used in school, at home and the library images and text
can be copied and then add to school work, homework or any other projects.
Children are introduced to an enquiry-based approach to a local study
focusing on the Victorian era. It gives opportunity for direct access to
historical sources, including the Gardens, and the trail provides an excellent
chance to develop fieldwork and research skills. This website also provides an
opportunity to consider citizenship issues such as, conservation, local identity
and social responsibility.
Czech Republic local residents
The local Czech community has a strong connection with the Gardens since
they have a dedicated war memorial commemorating Czech forces in the last
war. Therefore the Czech community often makes visits to the Gardens, and
who also have a dedicated tree and bench in memory of loved ones. The
Czech government, through the embassy, has made significant financial
donations to ensure these memorials are maintained for future generations.
A recent contribution has been made in 2013 to repairs to the memorial.
Leamington Society
Leamington Society has always had an active interest in the Gardens,
especially with respect to the restoration. Their more recent involvement has
been their support to reinstate the historic sundial to the Gardens, close to
the Arbour.
Britain in Bloom
Leamington Spa has taken part in the Britain in Bloom competition organized
by the Royal Horticultural Society for several years within the town category.
The aim of the competition is to regenerate local communities through
imaginative planting and landscaping, tackling environmental issues such as
litter, graffiti and vandalism, and above all encouraging community
involvement. The Gardens remain a key feature in the Leamington in Bloom
judging route and provides a valuable resource for community activity. 12
schools were involved in Leamington Britain in Bloom in 2012 producing plant
material for the train display for the Gardens.
The District Council is always reviewing the role that the public can have
green space management, and development, and in volunteer staffing. It is
essential that the Council continues to support, encourage and develop
community involvement and engagement in the Gardens.
61
The proposal to establish a Friends Group specific to the Gardens has been
discussed on many occasions, but based on the advice and guidance of
Green Flag judges it has been decided not establish a group as it is felt that it
would add little value to The Gardens. Likewise the Gardens do not lend
themselves to volunteer practical work.
Other community groups who use the Gardens facilities include dance and
theater groups who use Jephson Studio, several schools for educational
visits, Jephson Players and many other groups.
Another way the community can contribute towards The Gardens is through
sponsorship. Historically this has been mainly through tree and bench
donations. Since The Gardens are at nearly full capacity with trees and
benches another alternative sponsorship arrangement needs to be explored.
Recommendations
MP27 Develop a sponsorship and donation fund
2.1.7 Marketing and Events
Leamington Spa is a major tourist attraction for visitors to the Midlands.
Warwick District Council and its links with South Warwickshire Tourism
support the promotion and marketing of Leamington Spa and its surrounding
regional area known as Shakespeare Country, and to recognize the Gardens
as a major tourist attraction. The recent refurbishment of the Gardens has
created a significant impact on the number of visitors and also park users,
though this has never been quantified.
Events
In spring 2003, an official opening of the Gardens was organised. This was
an extremely successful event with a variety of activities for young and old
alike. There is an events programme for the Gardens which are sympathetic
to the Gardens. It is felt that the larger events, such as the Leamington
Peace Festival, fun fair and circus are better suited to the neighbouring open
space of the Pump Room Gardens, both in size, access and general
suitability, rather than the more restrictive Gardens.
Since the establishment of The South Lodge volunteers and the exhibition,
other interested parties have been involved in holding organised exhibition
events within the Lodge such as the Peoples Stories exhibition by BathPlace
telling the history of Leamington people and its places.
Heritage Open Day, organised by Warwick District Council, includes Jephson
Gardens and demonstrates its importance with respect to heritage and
architecture. This is held on annual basis and raises the profile and interest
of the Gardens.
Given the current usage of the Gardens, and the fact that there are some
environmentally sensitive areas it is essential to manage the balance
62
between access to the public and conservation of these areas. For that
reason informal activities such as playing football are encouraged within Mill
Gardens again for the same reasons, and would explain why the play area
and boating are located within this area.
The following schedule details events that took place in the Gardens in 2012.
28/01/2012
24/02/2012
04/03/2012
06/03/2012
22/03/2012
01/04/2012
10/04/2012
15/04/2012
02/05/2012
11/05/2012
13/05/2012
Jephson Gardens' Big Litter Pick
Kingsley School Year 6 (art)
Milverton Primary School (science)
Bidford-on-Avon Year 2 (science)
Spring Walk
Musical Mayhem
Arnold Lodge School yr 3 (Science)
Kingsley School yr 3 (Science)
09:30-10.30
14:00
09:30-10.30
10:15-14:15
10:30-12:00
10:30-12:00
09:30-10.30
09:30-12:00
13:00-15:00
09:30-10.30
08/06/2012
A Sporting History of Jephson Gardens
10:30-12:00
09/06/2012
09:30-10.30
10/06/2012
Birds of Prey in Jephson Gardens
11:00-16:00
24/06/2012
26/06/2012
Royal Leamington Spa Archery Society TBC
Radford Semele School (yr 1&2)
11/07/2012
SWiRLS Party in the Park
Afternoon TBC
09:30-12:00
09:30-14:00
TBC
13/07/2012
Little Stars Preschool (age 3/4)
10:00-11:00
15/07/2012
11/08/2012
09:30-10:30
09:30-10:30
18/08/2012
Hive of Activity
10:00-16:00
08/09/2012
09/09/2012
06/10/2012
Bat Walk
A Leamington Ghost Walk – Historical and
Hysterical
19:30-20:30
09:30-10:30
09:30-10:30
18:30-19:30
TBC
31/10/2012
A Leamington Ghost Walk – Historical and
Hysterical
18:30-19:30
TBC
02/11/2012
Tree-mendous Trees
10:30-12:00 &
14:30-16:00
27/10/2012
63
18/11/2012
01/12/2012
Winter Walk
09:30-10:30
10:30-12:00
The ranger has taken an active role in organising small events in recent
years. For example the Jungle Club event is a new event for 2013 and is an
interactive event and involves school children. The range and number of
events will be reviewed each year to maximise number of visitors and
inclusivity, however resources are limited in delivering a more extensive
programme of events.
Recommendations
MP28 Review the range and number of events and activities in The Gardens
annually
Information and Educational Interpretation
Two community notice boards in Jephson Gardens inform the public of
events, byelaws and facilities on offer. It is accepted that an additional one is
needed at Mill Gardens.
Even though there is some excellent historical interpretation within the South
Lodge, it is acknowledge that there are other opportunities in developing this
further and to have a more access to this facility. Additionally there are other
opportunities for historical, ecological and botanical interpretation throughout
the rest of the Gardens. Examples for consideration include the development
of heritage trail leaflet, information on the historic nature of plants, including
the Glasshouse, the horticultural collections within the Gardens, and the use
of ecological interpretation on the riverbank.
The Glasshouse exhibits a diverse range of plants but lacks the necessary
interpretation. The building entrance is also not welcoming and requires
entrance signage, opening hour‟s information and redesigning.
The Council website information on Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens is
being updated as this management plan is being reviewed. The website is
intended to be more informative then is present.
Finally strengthening the links between The Gardens and neighbouring green
space to include all the other Spa Gardens and sites of wildlife interest would
be beneficial.
Recommendations
MP29 Develop more interpretation material
MP30 Introduce an additional information board at Mill Gardens
MP31 Improve the Glasshouse entrance, signage and interpretation.
MP32 Signage linking The Gardens to neighbouring green space
64
2.1.8 Management
The management of the Gardens is complex and has historically been
disjointed, with no single dedicated point of contact having the vision and
support to ensure the long term sustainability and at the same time
continuing to develop the Gardens further. Traditionally parks management
has been more focused on the day to day operational maintenance, mainly
grounds maintenance, without a more coordinated and strategic approach to
management for the Gardens to the visitor.
Under the Councils Fit for the Future Intervention a management restructure
was carried out in 2012 which has resulted in the integration of the two parks
team into one department. Following best practice its intention is to provide
more support to the strategic direction of parks service, and at the same
time provide an improved resource to the Gardens.
It is considered that the new Green Space Development Team has the
necessary skills, knowledge and dedication to improve the delivery of
development of greenspace, including the Gardens, while still having the
necessary resources to ensure the day to day to management and
maintenance.
The new Green Space Team has more clarity in roles and responsibilities of
management, maintenance and development in order to be able to
successfully deliver the vision for the Gardens.
One of the other ways of addressing the disjointed management has been
the appointment of the full time Garden Ranger who has roles and
responsibilities that goes beyond that of security, and includes facility
management, community engagement, developing educational, activity and
event programmes, supporting Council officers in grounds and property
maintenance, as well as an input into developing and implementing the
management plan for the Gardens. The present Ranger has been in post 18
months and has been a huge success. However it has been acknowledged
that The Ranger working days and hours need to be profiled better so that
there is more time dedicated in the winter months to prepare for the more
busy summer months.
Recommendations
MP33 Review the Rangers profile of working days
The Ranger role through Action 21 finishes in 2015. Therefore how the
Ranger role is appointed needs to be reviewed at in advance of the 2015.
Recommendations
MP34 Review the Ranger role
65
With the number of stakeholders, the level community involvement and
facility operators within the Gardens, the Council needs to ensure clear role
definition for those involved in the management, maintenance and
development of Gardens.
Specific to the Gardens the key posts who have a current role in the
management and maintenance of Jephson and Mill Gardens are:
Name of
post
Employed
by/managed
by
Main duties
Contract
Services
Manager
Green Space
Team Leader
WDC
Green Space
Development
Officer
WDC
Gardens
Ranger
Action
21/WDC
Glasshouse
Technician
Gardener
WDC
Assistant
Gardener
GM contractor
Leases and
overall
management
Development,
Management
Plan and Green
Flag
Management,
development
and
maintenance
Security,
educational,
community and
events
Managing
the
Galsshouse
General
grounds
maintenance
General
grounds
maintenance
WDC
GM contractor
%
dedicated
time in
The
Gardens
0.5%
Based
in
Gardens
Estimated
Cost per
annum
N
tbc
2%
N
tbc
5%
N
tbc
100%
Y
tbc
50%
Y
tbc
100%
Y
tbc
100%
Y
tbc
Additionally the two leases need reviewing at every stage, and so therefore it
essential to have a systems and procedures in place to allow for these
reviews.
Recommendations
MP35 Review leases and licences.
There have also been a number of isolated incidents with facility operators,
mainly the caterer and Leam Boats that have caused some problems within
The Gardens. Thankfully these get resolved and hopefully will not reoccur. It
would be beneficial for a stronger relationship between The Green Space
Team and facility operators through regular meetings.
66
Recommendations
MP36 Strengthen relationship with facility operators through regular
meetings.
There is also a need to ensure that suitable performance measures are in
place and that data is gathered on a regular basis to allow improvements in
service delivery and other changes to be tracked over time. A range of
performance measures are set out in section 4 of this Management plan.
Recommendations
MP37 Adopt appropriate performance measures against which the success of
managing the Gardens can be measured
67
2.2.
Vision for Management
The vision for Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens is:
To provide a welcoming, healthy, accessible, safe, secure and
high quality Gardens, which through partnership and effective
community engagement meets a diverse range of needs and
aspirations on a sustainable basis. Management of the site
shall conserve and protect the features and assets of the site
whilst continuing to provide a recreational resource.
2.3
Aims
The aims are set out under the Green Flag Award headings (used in section
2) below:
Green Flag
Criteria
A Welcoming
Place
Healthy, Safe and
Secure
Clean and Well
Maintained
Sustainability
Community
Involvement
Marketing
Management
Aim
To make Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens welcoming
so that they are accessible to sections of the
community
To ensure that Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens are
managed and maintained to a high standard to
provide a safe and secure environment for all visitors
To ensure that Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens is
managed and maintained to a high standard to
provide an attractive park and enjoyable experience
for all visitors
To ensure that Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens is
managed and maintained in an appropriate manner so
that the environmental impact of these operations is
minimised.
To provide an inclusive approach to involving all
sections of the community in contributing to the
management and development of Jephson Gardens
and Mill Gardens.
To provide an inclusive approach to the promotion and
marketing of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens
To provide a co-ordinated and joined up approach to
the management, maintenance and development
68
Part 3
3.1
Action Plan
A series of recommendation have been identified as part of the analysis and
evaluation exercise that will help fulfil the aims as set out in section 2. These
are detailed in the following action plan, along with key information about
lead officers and when it is considered possible and necessary to achieve
each task.
Some of the items are subject at this stage to further approval within the
Council, with due consideration necessary to co-ordinate budget planning and
other programmes elsewhere in the green space portfolio. As such some of
these actions are aspirational until funding is confirmed. This Action Plan will
be a key strategic guide to prioritise existing and obtaining future resources.
The program is set out according to the Council‟s financial year, which runs
from the beginning of April to the end of the following March. The 5 year
action plan is a working document which will deliver these aims through 37
identified actions. Completed actions will be recorded and new actions added
in response to demands or projects on a rolling basis.
The action plan is challenging but realistic.
Cost bands are set at the following levels.
£0K - £1K
£1K - £5K
£5K - £10K
£10K - £15K
£15K - £20K
£20K - £50K
£50K - £100K
£100K - £250K
The funding codes in the action plan are as follows:
OT = Officer Time (Existing)
R = Revenue (New)
C = Capital (New)
Lead Officer:
CSM = Contract Services Manager
GSTL = Green Space Team Leader.
GSDO = Green Space Development Officer
GR = Garden Ranger
GS = Glasshouse Technician
AO = Arboricultural Officer
69
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens Action Plan
Ref
MP1
MP2
MP3
MP4
MP5
MP6
MP7
MP8
MP9
MP10
MP11
MP12
Recommendations
Welcoming Place
Introduce more entrance signage
Introduce „You are here‟ to all
entrance signage
Introduce additional finger
directional signage
Introduce external signage to The
Gardens
Review the Councils byelaws with
respect to cycling and see how this
relates to The Gardens
A complete redesign and replant of
the sensory garden
Refurbish Mill Gardens play area
and its surrounds by 2016
Introduce a sculpture trail on the
Upper Lawn.
Introduce more benches to
riverside path.
Healthy, Safe and Secure
Relocate the Ranger from East
Lodge to South Lodge
Investigate the provision of CCTV at
The Glasshouse and South Lodge
Provide out of hours details to the
Ranger, facility operators and
contractors and promote these to
Financial
Year
Lead
Officer
Partners
Costs
Funding
Source
2014-2015
2013-2014
GSDO
GSDO
GSTL
£1K - £5K
£0K - £1K
OT + R
OT + R
2014-2015
GSDO
GSTL
£1K - £5K
OT + R
2015-2016
GSDO
GSTL
£5K - £10K
OT + R
2015-2016
GSTL
CSM/GSDO
2014-2015
GSDO
2015-2016
GSTL
2013-2018
OT
£1K - £5K
OT + R
GSDO
£100K - £250K
OT + C
GSDO
GSTL
£20K - £50K
OT + R
2013-2018
GSDO
GR
£1K - £5K
OT + R
2013-2014
CSM
GSDO
£1K - £5K
OT + R
2013-2014
GSDO
GSTL/GT
£1K - £5K
OT + R
2013-2014
GSDO
70 District Council
Warwick
OT
MP13
MP14
MP15
MP16
MP17
MP18
MP19
MP20
MP21
MP22
the public and all other interested
parties.
Clean and Well Maintained
Regenerate the poorer quality
permanent planting displays in The
Gardens with more sustainable and
wildlife friendly planting.
Provide more Council Officer time
to support the new GM contract.
Sustainability
Ensure that the Council supports
the Government commitment to
reducing peat use.
Explore the use of solar panels for
The Gardens
Introduce more recycling bins to
The Gardens
Monitor operative usage of water
when watering plants
Explore water harvesting
opportunities
Ensure the health and longevity of
existing trees with any potentially
dangerous trees being removed by
delivering the maintenance
programme
Develop a tree management plan
Conservation and Heritage
Revisit current pest control
measures to see how effective they
are
2014-2018
GSDO
£20K - £50K
2013-2014
GSDO
OT
2014-2015
GSDO
OT
2014-2015
GSDO
2013-2014
GSDO
2013-2014
GSDO
2014-2015
GSDO
2013-2015
AO
GSDO
£1K - £5K
OT + R
2014-2015
AO
GSDO
£0K - £1K
OT + R
2014-2015
GSDO
GR
GSTL
OT + R
OT
£1K - £5K
GR
OT + R
OT
OT
71 District Council
Warwick
OT
MP23
MP24
MP25
MP26
MP27
MP28
MP29
MP30
MP31
MP32
MP33
MP34
MP35
MP36
MP37
Review biological control of pests in
The Glasshouse
Find alternative use of East Lodge
by 2015
Review the future of East Lodge
gardens.
Community Involvement
Consult with Garden users
Develop a sponsorship and
donation fund
Review the range and number of
events and activities in The
Gardens
Marketing
Develop more interpretation
material
Introduce an additional information
board at Mill Gardens
Improve the Glasshouse entrance,
signage and interpretation.
Signage linking The Gardens to
neighbouring green space
Management
Review the Rangers profile of
working days
Review the Ranger role
Review leases and licences
Strengthen relationship with facility
operators through regular
meetings.
Adopt appropriate performance
2014-2015
GT
GSDO
OT
2014-2015
CSM
GSTL
OT
2013-2014
GSDO
GR
OT
2013-2018
2014-2015
GR
GSTL
CSM
OT
OT
2013-2018
GR
GSDO
OT
2013-2015
GR
GSTL
2014-2015
GSDO
2014-2015
GSDO
GSTL/GR/GT £15K - £20K
OT + R
2014-2015
GSDO
GSTL
OT + R
2013-2014
GSDO
GSTL
OT
2014-2015
2015-2018
2013-2014
CSM
CSM
GSDO
GSTL/GSDO
GSTL/GSDO
OT
OT
OT
2013-2014
GSTL
GSDO
OT
72 District Council
Warwick
£1K - £5K
OT + R
£1K - £5K
OT + R
£1K - £5K
measures against which the success
of managing the Gardens can be
measured
73 District Council
Warwick
3.2 Finance and Resources
74
Revenue costs for Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens for 2012/2013 – 2017/2018
5 Year Revenue Forecast
Annual Grounds Maintenance
Floral Displays
Play Area Maintenance
Water
Electricity
Gas
Glasshouse Cleansing
Toilet Cleansing
Property Repairs - responsive
Total
Revenue
spend
2012/2013
£108,179
£28,991
£2,941
£5,200
£16,761
£16,808
£4,742
£8,839
£15,000
£207,461
Predicted
spend
2013/2014
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
Predicted
spend
2014/2015
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
Predicted
spend
2015/2016
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
Predicted
spend
2016/2017
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
Predicted
spend
2017/2018
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
tbc
Capital costs Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens for 2012/2013
Capital spend 2012/2013
Path reinstatement
£50,000
Total
£50,000
Corporate Improvement Programme
5 year Capital spend projection 2013 -2018
5 year Capital spend projection 2013 -2018
Short Term
Medium Term
Long Term
Total
£50,000 Path reinstatement
tbc
£100,000 Mill Gardens play area refurbishment
£150,000
75
Warwick District
Council
76
Warwick District
Council
Part 4
4.1 MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens management plan will extend for a further 5
years to 2018. Progress against the action plan will be measured twice a year
including a more formal review, in September of each year, in preparation for
the Green Space Team Operational Plans and the Neighborhood Service Plan and
Capital Bids cycle.
Targets for the forthcoming twelve months and modifications to the action plan,
based on consultation, new information and changing circumstances, will be
made at the same time.
Monitoring arrangements
Monitoring refers to checking progress against the action plan – the most
important part of the document. The Green Space Team, together with the
Ranger, will be responsible for overseeing this aspect of the plan as it needs a
coordinated partnership approach to address the entire action plan. They should
meet at the least every 6 months, and the action plan should be formally
updated every 12 months
The year and priority allows for each project to be „signed off‟ once achieved. It
is also suggested that the action plan be revised annually as jobs are completed
and new ones identified.
Customer satisfaction and community consultation
Setting up a system of regular surveys and consultation would enable the
Council to not only set a bench mark of current satisfaction but would also allow
it to measure satisfaction after the improvements have been completed.
Therefore the introduction of the Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens User Survey
will assist in this process.
Also it would enable the Council to build a much better picture of who uses the
Gardens, where they come from, how they travel and what barriers there are to
greater use. This information can also contribute towards the wider Green Space
Strategy and also be used to inform annual updating of this plan.
Green Flag
Whether through self assessment or through applying for Green Flag Award the
Gardens can be judged on its strengths and weaknesses in the way it is being
managed. From this recommendations can be drawn up to address any issues.
Review Process
Since this plan covers another 5 years the plan should be reviewed more
thoroughly in 2018. At this time the Council should review the plan in its
entirety.
77
4.2 COMMUNICATIONS
Warwick District Council, as the managing authority for the Jephson Gardens
and Mill Gardens, has a variety of ways that can be used to give feedback on the
performance and continued relevance of this management plan.
These are shown below:
Customer feedback and response forms available from Council offices and
website
Contact via letters, telephone, fax, email and appointments to discuss
issues with specific officers
Stakeholders including private operators and contractors
Volunteer groups such as those at the South Lodge
The Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens User Survey that is carried out
twice a year.
Contact via elected members, including Councillors surgeries
The address for correspondence relating to the management plan is
The Green Space Team
Neighbourhood Services
P.O. Box 2177, Riverside House
Milverton Hill, Royal Leamington Spa
Warwickshire
CV32 5QG
The telephone contact is 01926 412464
The e-mail address [email protected]
78
APPENDICES
Appendix A
Ownership Details
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D
Grounds Maintenance Schedule and Plan
Appendix E
Condition Audit
Appendix F
Appendix G
79
Appendix A
Ownership Details
80
81
Appendix B
82
REPORT OF A PLAY AREA INSPECTION
23L. Mill Gardens, Mill Road, Leamington Spa
The area was inspected on 12 June 2012
by Rob Wheway for Children’s Play Advisory Service (CPAS)
Playground Designation and Main Users
This is a town park play area for use by local people and visitors. This equipment
was installed in 2001.
Risk Assessment
There are no High Risk/Category “A” matters at this site
All local children have to cross roads to get to the playground. Roads should be
calmed.
An adjacent lake and river both have good fencing between them and the
playground.
83
Play Value
Toddler
Junior
Senior
Good
Good
Reasonable
Social Safety and Casual Supervision
Rating – 4
There are limited sightlines from nearby housing and good sightlines from passersby. Other users would also give good casual supervision.
This site appears to have high/medium use.
There is no evidence that this site is vulnerable to vandalism.
Catchment
There are houses to one side only and busy roads limit unaccompanied use by
children.
Development
Rating – 3
There is low/sufficient need for development at this site although some significant
refurbishment will be needed in a couple of years.
Access
Cars can park nearby and there are firm surfaces within the playground.
Ancillary Items
The following were found to be satisfactory:
5 Seats
2 Teen Seats
1 Shelter
2 Operator/Dog Ban Signs
Dog Ban Signs
2 Litter Bins
Cleanliness
Work is required on the following:
4 Gates
Latches project at child eye level – Fit alternative (B)
Potential finger entrapments – Remedy with adjustment to
gate/posts, or fit rubber buffer to give a gap of not less than
12mm throughout the arc of the movement
Risk Assessment: 10
Trees
Overhanging trees should be checked periodically by a
specialist
84
Fencing
Gate posts rotting at top gate – Replace (C)
3 fence posts severely rotting (river side) – Replace (B)
3 fence planks missing – Replace (C)
General Surface
Wet-Pour/Sand/Brick Sets – Wet-pour slippery – Clean (B)
Edge logs rotting at sand – Remove/replace (B) (children may
use for balance)
Risk Assessment: 9
Item 1
4 Seat Rotating Rocker
Lappset
LIFE:
2-4 years life expectancy
STANDARD:
Generally meets EN 1176 and is suitable for use
CONDITION:
Leaning slightly (M)
SURFACING:
Wood Chip
STANDARD:
Meets the dimensional requirements of EN 1176
CONDITION:
Rake regularly to maintain levels (B)
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Maintenance Risk: Acceptable
Item 2
Wobble Table
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Pivot worn – Replace (C)
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Beginning to lift (M)
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Maintenance Risk: 8 – Replace movement to give an assessment of Acceptable
Risk
85
Item 3
Rotating Seat
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Satisfactory condition – Fit for use
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
The surfacing is in an acceptable condition
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Item 4
Wobble Bench
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
“Clunking” at movement (M)
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Beginning to lift at edge (M)
Design Risk:
Acceptable
86
Item 5
Ship Multi-Play
Lappsett
LIFE:
2-4 years life expectancy (installed 2001)
STANDARD:
Minor failures to meet EN 1176 but suitable for continued use
Gaps between climb nets and deck fails head probe test.
Low risk as net gives footholds (F)
Concrete bases at surface (F)
CONDITION:
Rotting top plank adjacent slide – Replace (B)
Tunnel panels rough – Smooth (C)
Climb net badly worn (swapping net with less worn one on the
other side may extend life) – Replace worn net (D)
3 roof planks missing – Replace (D)
SURFACING:
Wood Chip
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Low – Top up (C)
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Maintenance Risk: 10 – Replace rotting plank to give an assessment of
Low/Medium Risk
Top up wet-pour to give an assessment of Acceptable Risk
Item 6
Multi-Play
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
The ramp accesses are difficult for small children to use
unaided (F)
CONDITION:
Bottom ramp footholds worn – Replace/repair (C)
Rot in deck panels – Replace (C)
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Holes under helter skelter give trip points – Repair (C)
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Maintenance Risk: 10 – Replace decks and repair footholds to give an assessment
of Low/Medium Risk
Repair wet-pour to give an assessment of Acceptable Risk
87
Item 7
Play House
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
Minor failure to meet EN 1176 but suitable for continued use
The item is too near the fence (F)
CONDITION:
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Item 8
Tunnel
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Item 9
Rotating Toadstool
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
88
Item 10
Play Ship
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Rubber edge missing – Replace edging strip (D)
SURFACING:
Wet-Pour
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Item 11
Spring Whale
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
SURFACING:
Sand
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
Item 12
Sand Play Unit
Lappset
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
life)
Wheel bearings badly worn – Replace (NB: item near end of
SURFACING:
Sand
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
89
Item 13
Sand Table
Park Play
LIFE:
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Edge chipped (M)
SURFACING:
Sand
STANDARD:
CONDITION:
Design Risk:
Acceptable
90
Appendix C
91
Location: Mill Gardens
Richardson
Asset
Attribut Risk
es
Play
Area
Plantin
g
Woode
n
Fencin
g.
Items
of Play
Equipm
ent.
Various
Safety
Surfaci
ng.
Slips
Trips
Falls
Cuts
Shrubs
Insect
stings/bite
s.
Poisoning.
Cuts/Scra
tches.
Cuts/Scra
tches.
Falls
Slips
Trips
Woode
n
Structu
res.
Deckin
g.
Shelter
.
Arbour
s.
Trees
Mature
Semi
Mature
Grass
Large
close
mown
grass
Falling
Trees
Falling
limbs
Leaf Fall
Slips
Trips
Falls
Dog
Contract Services
Risk Assessment
Date: 6/6/11 Time: 9.30
Current
Control
Likelih
ood
Seve
rity
Regular
Inspecti
ons
recorde
d on
Playsaf
e.
Annual
Inspecti
on.
Keep
surface
s
topped
up.
Propert
y
Inspecti
on of
fencing.
Regular
pruning
off
paths.
5
Assessor: Simon
Condition
3
Risk
Rati
ng
15
1
3
3
Good
Inspect
ed as
part of
playgro
und.
Decking
falls
under
Boat
House
remit.
Arb.
Insepcti
on
2
3
6
Good
2
5
10
Good
Grass
Cutting
Litter
Clearan
4
2
8
Good
92
Good/Av
erage
Further
Action
Required
Carry
out
repairs
when
needed.
Keep up
inspectio
ns.
Possible
anti-slip
material
in
shelter.
area.
Benche
s
Bins
Fouling
Cuts
Insect
bites/sting
s
Fencin
g
Metal
spike
fencing
.
Brick
Walls.
Cuts.
Impaleme
nt.
Falling
Over.
Footpa
ths
Tarmac
paths.
Resin
bonded
surface
paths.
Steps
to
Willes
Rd
Boating
lake
River
Leam
Slips
Trips
Falls
Woode
n
arched
bridge
over
link
betwee
n lake
and
river.
Storag
e and
Slips
Trips
Falls
Cuts
Street
Furnitu
re
Water
Bridge
Boat
House
Falls
Drowning
Slips
Trips
ce
Weekly
Inspecti
ons.
Daily
bin
emptyi
ng
Spikes
rounde
d off,
no
sharp
point.
Painted
to
prevent
rust.
Sweepi
ng.
Enginee
ring
Check.
1
2
2
Good
2
4
8
Good
4
2
8
Good
Boating
lake
monitor
ed by
outside
body.
Vegetat
ion and
fencing
restricti
ng
access.
Propert
y
structur
al
inspecti
on.
3
5
15
Average
Water
warning
signs.
5
2
10
Average
Refer to
property
survey.
Anti slip
surface
needed.
Propert
y
4
3
12
Good
Refer to
property
93
runnin
g of
private
busines
s.
Falls
structur
al
inspecti
on.
Operati
onal
Inspecti
on
carried
out by
Lease
holder.
and
operatin
g risk
assessm
ents.
LOCAL RISK
ASSESSMENT
RECORD
CONTRACT MANAGER'S STATEMENT
I have assessed this Local Risk Assessment and judge it to be sufficient in terms of
risk control at the Contract. If members of staff have any questions or suggestions
please raise them with me.
Contract Manager:
Tod Hale
Contract:
Warwick 053
Date:
25-Feb
Signed:
25-FebActivity Assessed:
Assessment Date:
09
Refilling of Bird Feeders in Lake Reassessment Date
24-Feb10
Location:
Who's at Risk:
Jephson Gardens
Staff carrying out task
Estimat
Hazard
Control Measures
Risk control
Potential for Harm
Drowning
Leptospirosis (Weil's
Disease)
ed level
of risk
Tolerab
le
reducing the risk to an acceptable level
adequate
Y/N?
Buoyancy aids properly secured to be worn at all times
on or near the
water
Ability to swim
Ensure at least one banksman is in attendance at all
times
Ensure firm foothold before commencing filling
Avoid prolonged contact with water
Low
Wear protective rubber gloves
Wash hands thoroughly on completion of task and in
any case before
eating, drinking or smoking
Attack from Swans/Geese
94
and
other wildfowl
Low
Keep clear of all wildlife and nests etc
Back injury or strain
Low
Manual Handling given to staff
Ensure person filling feeder is tall enough to reach
feeding station to
prevent strain
Ensure filling equipment is manageable to lift after
decanting feed
from bags
Ice
Low
Do not enter area if water is frozen
Additional Control
Measures
PPE required and supplied by
Glendale:
Waders, buoyancy aid, waterproof
gloves
Nearest Hospital or Doctor: Warwick Hospital, Lakin Road, Warwick
Level of First Aid required:
First Aid at work
Emergency Communication
Staff mobiles, Jephson Gardens Restaurant
95
Appendix D
Grounds Maintenance Schedule and Plan
96
Jephson Gardens
438
m
²
AMENHEDG
E
Hedge - Amenity
420201
Jephson
Gardens
30
no
EGGS
Treatment of bird
eggs
420201
Jephson
Gardens
2
no
FOUNTAIN
Land Based Water
Fountains
420201
Jephson
Gardens
250
m
²
GRMEAD
Grass - Meadow
420201
Jephson
Gardens
300
m
²
GRMEAD
Grass - Meadow
420201
Jephson
Gardens
1024
2
m
²
GRORN1
Grass Ornamental Grade
1
420201
Jephson
Gardens
1870
5
m
²
GRORN2
Grass Ornamental Grade
2
420201
Jephson
Gardens
450
m
²
GRTH1
Grass - Tall Herbs
Grade 1
420201
Jephson
Gardens
2450
m
GRTH1
Grass - Tall Herbs
420201
Jephson
97
hedges
throughou
t site
Treatment
of Canada
Geese
eggs
Cezch
fountain
,Hitchman
fountain
area to
bank
behind
aviary
cafe only
sunney
section
NOT the
whole
bank
Area on
the bank
next to
cafe patio
. area
from patio
to stepps
Grass from
The
Parade to
the clock
tower
Grass from
the clock
tower to
Willes
Road
grass to
edge of
river
behind low
fence to
whole
length of
river, cut
to 18"
high
tall herbs
²
Grade 1
Gardens
1275
m
²
HERB1
Herbaceous/Sustai
nable Planting
420201
Jephson
Gardens
2894
7
m
²
LEAFCOL
Leaf Collection
420201
Jephson
Gardens
3600
m
²
ORNLAKE
Waterbody (A) Ponds and Lakes
420201
Jephson
Gardens
2109
m
²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental Bed
420201
Jephson
Gardens
6465
m
²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental Bed
420201
Jephson
Gardens
1
no
STRAW
Provision of Straw
420201
Jephson
Gardens
302
m
²
TOPBOX
Hedge - Topiary
420201
Jephson
Gardens
1040
0
m
²
WATBOD1
420201
Jephson
Gardens
2
no
FLFOUN1
Waterbody Std 1 General
Watercourses
Floral Fountains - 3
Tier Std 1
420202
1
no
FLFOUN3
Floral Fountains 12 Tier Std 3
420202
701
m
²
FLWRBED
Annual Bedding
420202
Jephson
Gardens Bedding
Jephson
Gardens Bedding
Jephson
Gardens Bedding
through
out site
Sensory
and grass
planting
Collection
from all
grass
areas
Large lake
in middle
of site
beds
through
out the
gardens
beds
through
out the
gardens
Straw for
nesting
birds on
islands
single
yews ,all
yew ,box
and low
prunus
hedges
River bank
In bedding
plots
In bedding
plots
Bedding
areas in
main lawn
Mill Gardens
87
m²
AMENHEDGE
Hedge Amenity
330101
98
Mill
Gardens
mature private
hedge to
boundary with
milford court
166
m²
AMENHEDGE
Hedge Amenity
330101
Mill
Gardens
160
m²
AMENHEDGE
Hedge Amenity
330101
Mill
Gardens
206
m²
AMENHEDGE
Hedge Amenity
330101
Mill
Gardens
8694
m²
GRORN2
Grass Ornamental
Grade 2
330101
Mill
Gardens
93
m²
GRORN2
Grass Ornamental
Grade 2
330101
Mill
Gardens
1114
m²
GRTH1
Grass - Tall
Herbs Grade 1
330101
Mill
Gardens
8787
m²
LEAFMUL
Leaf Mulching
330101
326
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
Mill
Gardens
732
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
138
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
107
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub -
330101
Mill
99
holly and beech
hedge from
mature private
hedge to vehicle
gate
beech hedge
from vehicle
gate to
pedestrian gate
mill bridge /mill
road
new section of
hedge from
milford court to
mill bridge
entrance gate
large area to
center of area
,and river bank
short mown
areas to channel
into boating lake
areas to edge of
lake bank and
area next to
pedestrian
entrance off mill
road
area to river
edge from willes
road to mill
bridge and
banks of boating
lake, cut 18"
high
Whole grassed
area
shrub bed to
willes road bank
from river bridge
to vehicle gate 2
beds
long shrub bed
from willes road
vehicle gate to
vehicle gate mill
road
shrub bed to
boating pond
bank nearest to
river
shrub bed to
Ornamental
Bed
20
m²
SHRUB1
157
m²
SHRUB1
184
m²
SHRUB1
9
m²
39
Gardens
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
330101
Mill
Gardens
330101
Mill
Gardens
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
157
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
228
m²
SHRUB1
Shrub Ornamental
Bed
330101
Mill
Gardens
2500
m²
WATBOD1
330101
Mill
Gardens
2500
m²
WATBOD1
Waterbody Std
1 - General
Watercourses
Waterbody Std
1 - General
Watercourses
330101
Mill
Gardens
100
bank of boating
pond to rear of
deck near to
millford court
shrub bed to end
of boat house
shrub bed out
side play area
nearest river
shrub bed
outside play
area nearest to
mill road
shrub bed to
entrance off mill
road and mill
suspension
bridge in short
mown grass
shrub bed to
entrance off mill
bridge /mill
road to river
bank up to play
area fence
shrub beds in
play area 5 in
total thorugh out
area
beds to river
bank up stream
of chanel to
boating pond 2
off
mill gardens
boating lake
River from
middle to mill
gds bank
101
Appendix E
Condition Audit
102
JEPHSON AND MILL GARDENS CONDITION INSPECTION SHEET
TYPE
DATE
Jephson
Memorial
23/5/07
INSPECTED
BY
JH, AM, DA
Willes
Obelisk
23/5/07
“
Davis Clock
23/5/07
“
Hitchman
Fountain
Glasshouse
& restaurant
23/5/07
“
23/5/07
“
Gee Arbour
23/5/07
“
The Arbour
23/5/07
“
The Aviary
23/5/07
“
The Boat
house
Lake
23/5/07
“
External render poor
Mild staining rain water/rust
and grease from restaurant,
excessive cobwebs and dirty
windows to main entrance
area and windows not
working shutting correctly and
graffiti on rear of building
Building ok locking system
JH to resolve
needs clean
Paint flaking due to damp
Building had no damp course
AM to monitor
External drain blocked and
AM to clean and clear
gutters
Ok
None
23/5/07
“
Ok
CONDITION
ACTION TAKEN
External ok , internal
paintwork poor , statue needs
a wash
OK
Am to programme for
painting and arrange wash
for statue
NONE
Stonework ok , clock fast 20
mins
Stonework ok ,
AM to arrange time
adjustment
Fountain jets up and down jh
to contact WPM to resolve
AM to resolve
None
103 District Council
Warwick
PHOTO
REF
001, 012
027
001
001
015
016
017
018
019
020
021
030
007, 008
026
Fountain
Czech
Fountain
South Lodge
23/5/07
“
23/5/07
“
North Lodge
23/5/07
“
East Lodge
23/5/07
“
TYPE
DATE
Mill Bridge
23/5/07
INSPECTED
BY
AM / JH/ DA
Toilet block
23/5/07
“
Wooden
bridge
Perimeter
railing &
gates
Resin
bonded path
Historic
planting
23/5/07
“
23//507
“
23/5/07
“
23/5/07
“
Vistas
23/5/07
“
Dirty water two deep , I
damaged bull nose brick
OK rat hole
JH resolve water , AM to
resolve brick
AM to fill hole
013
Leak roof ,flooding round
building
Empty blocked gutter and
paint work very poor
AM to repair and investigate
drain
Await decision from NB re
lease
002, 003
CONDITION
ACTION TAKEN
044
034
PHOTO
REF
OK
NONE
Facia boards poor and soffet
and steel rusting through
paint
Ok
Painting required AM to
investigate
Rails damaged by boat house
Mill railing /willes road urgent
need of paint
Poor in places lifting esp gee
shelter area
Large beech tree davis clock
showing signs of decline ,
cedar top lawn dead wood
Good
AM to repair fence URGENT
and get quote for railings
038, 040
Pass to engineers to repair or
make safe
Monitor , BEECH , jh to
advise forestry office re cedar
urgent action
None
010, 028,
031
033
023, 024
AM to investigate anti slip
Warwick
General
landscaping
Lighting
columns
Park
furniture
23/5/07
“
Bit weedy
JH rectification issued
23/5/07
“
DA to investigate ownership
23/5/07
“
Column by toilet block taped
repair
Need summer clean
Play area
23/5/07
“
Perimeter fence need painting
037
River
corridor,
boat
platform
Flume
23/5/07
“
Bank erosion on mill gds side
AM to put in painting
program
Monitor
23/5/07
“
Litter collected at head
JH to resolve
035
Memorial
plaques
Mill passage
bridge
Saline Well
23/5/07
“
Ok
None
23/5/07
“
Pigeon excrement and litter
23/5/07
“
Ok
JH to make street cleansing
aware
None
TYPE
DATE
JH to sort power wash
Sewers
Tank
23/5/07
INSPECTED
BY
“
Slate Art
23/5/07
“
Ok
None
Signage and
23/5/07
“
Ok
None
022
CONDITION
ACTION TAKEN
OK
None
Warwick
039
006
PHOTO
REF
Interpretati
on
Miscellaneo
us
Health and
Safety
23/5/07
23/5/07
“
Litter bin liners need replacing
fire damage
New one on order replace
when arrive JH
Dead limb on cedar
As previous note fo to deal
urgent
Additional Information
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………
Warwick
Appendix F
107
JEPHSON AND MILL GARDENS HERITAGE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Feature
Jephson Memorial Temple
Willes Obelisk
Davis Clock
Hitchman Fountain
Glasshouse and restaurant
Gee arbour
The Arbour
Maintenance programme
Power wash once per annum.
Pointing dependant upon inspections.
Litter clearance through GM contract.
Annual electrical inspection.
Maintenance reactive to inspections.
Clock service twice per annum, through „Time in Hand‟
Clock Company.
Maintenance contract with Warwick Plant Maintenance.
Weekly chemical check.
Monthly clean and service.
Daily inspection and removal of litter and debris, filters
to be cleaned by Glendale Grounds Maintenance as part
of GM contract.
Painting scheduled for every 10 years (externally)
Redcliffe Catering lease to maintain internal fixtures and
fittings of the restaurant.
Cleaning of glass once per annum.
Cleaning of gutters once per annum.
Internal fountain maintained by Warwick Plant
Maintenance as above.
Warwickshire College cleaning and maintenance of plants
and Glasshouse 2.5 days per week.
Painting scheduled for every 5 years.
Warwick
The Aviary (refreshment arbour)
The Boathouse
Lake Fountain
Czech Fountain
South Lodge
North Lodge
fittings of the restaurant.
Leam Boats lease to maintain internal fixtures and
fittings of the restaurant
Drains maintained annually by WDC, Historical problem
of not working to be upgraded in 2007.
Twice a year check on inlet and outlet (silt trap included
on the inlet) with obstructive debris cleared.
Pump checked once per annum.
Jets cleaned as part of GM contract on a reactive basis.
Lake water kept clean as part of GM contract using
barley straw treatment twice per annum.
Perimeter fencing inspected twice per annum.
Painting of „bowl‟ scheduled every 5 years.
Pointing dependant on inspections.
Maintenance contract with Warwick Plant Maintenance.
Weekly chemical check.
Monthly clean and service.
Gutter maintenance once per annum.
Internal cleanliness WDC parks Service and volunteers.
Gutter maintenance once per annum.
Warwick
East Lodge
Mill Bridge
Wooden bridge
Perimeter railings and gates
Resin bonded path
Historic Planting
Vistas
General landscaping
Lighting columns
Park furniture
Play area
River corridor (and boating platform)
fittings of the lodge.
Roof recently repaired.
Under review for its future use, as part Asset
Management Group.
Maintained by Warwickshire County Council
Painting scheduled for every 5 years
Power wash once per annum
Painting scheduled for every 20 years for railings and
every 10 years for gates.
Property presently investigating
Maintenance reactive to inspections carried out through
WDC Project Engineers
As part of GM contract
Maintenance reactive to inspections
The integrity of vistas is checked in accordance with the
inspection regime. Remedial work is reactive to these
inspections.
The path network is swept on regular regime dependant
upon the season as part of the GM contract. Tree
management is part of the GM contract.
Painting scheduled every 10 years
Annual electrical inspection
Benches powered washed once per annum. Intention is
to return benches back to natural look.
Faeces removed as and when required.
Regular safety and condition inspections. Maintenance
reactive to inspections
Vegetation and litter maintained as part of GM contract
Maintenance reactive to inspections on „trip fencing‟
Warwick
Flume
Memorial plaques
Mill Passage bridges
Saline Well
Sewers Tank
Slate art
Signage and Interpretation
Vegetation and litter maintained as part of GM contract
Cleaned on request
Maintenance reactive to inspections.
Painting scheduled every 10 years to internal beams
I:\parks\Systems and Procedures\Condition Survey\HERITAGE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM.doc
Warwick
Appendix G
112
Customer Satisfaction Survey
We’re conducting this survey to help us see where and how we can improve
Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens. Please answer the questions below and return
the survey to us in the box located in the Temperate House, by post to East Lodge
(Jephson Gardens, CV32 4ER) or through the letterbox at East Lodge (Willes Road
entrance).
We would like to know the following about you:
Age
[ ] 15 and Under
[ ] 16 to 24
[ ] 25 to 34
[ ] 35 to 44
[ ] 45 to 54
[ ] 55-64
[ ] 65 and Over
Gender
Ethnicity
Do you have a Disability
Yes / No
If yes please specify:
Your postcode
1. How often do you visit Jephson Gardens?
First visit
Less than once a year
Once a year
A few times a year
Once a month
Once a week
A few times a week
Every day
113
For the next few questions, please circle the response that you think best applies.
2. I feel safe in Jephson Gardens.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
Agree
Strongly agree
Don’t know
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
3. Jephson Gardens is well maintained.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
4. If I have a problem in Jephson Gardens I know who to report it to.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
5. There are enough events held in Jephson Gardens.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
6. Enough is done for wildlife in Jephson Gardens.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
7. People with impaired mobility can get around Jephson Gardens easily.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Strongly agree
8. I use the Internet to find information about Jephson Gardens.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
9. The notice boards in Jephson Gardens are useful.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
10. The signs around Jephson Gardens are clear and easy to use.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
11. Information on the history of Jephson Gardens is easy to find.
114
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Don’t know
Agree
Strongly agree
Attractions and facilities found in Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens are below. Please rate
them between 1 and 10 (where 1 = Very poor and 10 = Excellent) and circle your response.
12. Attractions and
Facilities
Very
Poor
Excellent
The Gardens
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Temperate House
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Restaurant
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Aviary Cafe
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Boat House
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Sustainability Centre
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Toilets
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
Play area
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
South Lodge
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Never visited
13. Overall, how do you rate your experience at Jephson Gardens?
Very Poor:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
:Excellent
14. What is your main reason for visiting the Gardens?
15. How do you travel to the Gardens?
16. How could Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens be improved?
17. Any other comments?
115
116

jephson gardens management plan

Transcription

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