Agenda and draft minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Cheryl Stungo, Tom Smith, Joan King and Reena Ranger. Substitutes were Councillors Chris Mitchell and Chris Whately-Smith.

To confirm, as being a correct record, the minutes of the Climate Change & Leisure Committee, held on 2 July 2025, and for them to be signed by the Chair.

The minutes of the Climate Change & Leisure Committee held on 2 July 2025 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chair of the meeting.

Items of other business notified under Council Procedure Rule 30 to be announced, together with the special circumstances that justify their consideration as a matter of urgency. The Chair to rule on the admission of such items.

The Chair informed the committee that the Rickmansworth Aquadrome report was published late in order that officers could accommodate within the report details relating to the release of the EA flood modelling. Given the significant interest in this item, the Chair had agreed to its late inclusion. Furthermore, the Climate Change and Sustainability Bi-annual report was published late due to an administrative error. Due to the fact that this is a standing item for committee consideration every six month the Chair had agreed to its late inclusion to retain the reporting schedule for this important workstream.

The Chair informed the committee about a change in the order of proceedings to accommodate the officers who needed to leave the meeting early.

To receive any declarations of interest.

There were no declarations of interest.

The Committee are asked to receive a petition which requests the reopening of the Rickmansworth Aquadrome Woodland Path.

The petition is:

“We, the undersigned and living in the WD3 area, hereby demand TRDC to immediately reopen the Rickmansworth Aquadrome Woodland Path.”

Mr. Ash Patni presented the petition on behalf of the lead petitioner who was not able to attend the meeting. He urged the Council to reopen the path immediately and called for transparency by requesting the public release of the hydrological survey report. The speaker emphasised the critical importance of the path to local residents, noting his view that its condition is no worse than other paths in the area that remain open. He concluded by demanding prompt action from the Council to reopen the path without further delay.

The Chair asked the officer to respond to the technical question and advised Mr. Patni that a written copy will be provided to him.

The Associate Director for Environment responded by clarifying that what had been received is a flood model from the Environment Agency (EA) was a flood model for the Upper Colne Catchment areas and not a hydrological survey report. This model is owned by the EA and cannot be distributed by the officers. The flood model will be used to complete a hydrological study of the Aquadrome as part of the Aquadrome programme, it is expected that the study will be published by the end of the calendar year.

This report covers this Committees financial position over the medium term (2025 – 2028) as at Period 3 (end of June 2025).

The Period 3 comprehensive Budget Management report has already been presented to the Policy & Resources Committee at its meeting on 8 September 2025 which sought approval to a change in the Council’s 2025 - 2028 medium-term financial plan.

Recommendation

That Members note & comment on the contents of the report.

The Finance Business Partner introduced the report.

Members enquired about staff vacancies indicated in the report. The Head of Customer Experience explained that a key vacancy arose in June, and efforts are underway to realign the staffing structure, with recruitment expected to complete by early next year.

Budget concerns were raised regarding discrepancies in forecast figures for the Watersmeet Theatre between different reports. The Head of Customer Experience clarified that the Watersmeet report is covering previous years in terms of the position currently, and the financial forecasting is for future years. The officer also highlighted the challenges in financial forecasting and the impact of mathematical predictions versus actual delivery outcomes.

Members raised questions about the underutilisation of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund grant, which the Associate Director for Environment explained, had eligibility constraints on properties and the rule that only spent amounts can be claimed.

In response to a question regarding Watersmeet budget differences for 2026-2028 compared to 2025-2026, the Finance Business Partner clarified that there was a £14,000 budget allocation for the maintenance and replacement of fire doors. The officer explained that this budget was a one-time allocation aimed at improving fire doors.

Councillor Chris Lloyd moved the recommendation as set out in the report. The Committee noted and commented on the contents of the report.

RESOLVED:

That Members note & comment on the contents of the report.

The Watersmeet Annual Review Presentation 2024-25. For members to receive a presentation on Watersmeet’s performance for financial year 2024-25.

Recommendation

That: The report be noted.

The Head of Customer Experience introduced Ben Terry, Watersmeet General Manager and Judy Simpson, Marketing & Campaigns Manager who presented the report.

Members enquired about the current utilisation of Watersmeet Theatre’s venue capacity. The Head of Customer Experience explained that while some events sell out, others do not, which is a deliberate strategy to balance appealing to existing audiences and attracting new audiences. In terms of calendar availability the venue is nearing full capacity towards the end of the week, particularly Thursday through Saturday, while earlier weekdays have lower demand and more availability. The officers mentioned that the team is exploring growth opportunities by creating attractive packages, such as a week-long hire option, to increase utilisation during less busy periods.

Members addressed the financial and operational performance of the theatre, which has successfully reduced its cost to the Council, indicating positive financial progress. The officer emphasised that compared to other similar event spaces in the southeast region, outside London, Watersmeet performs well, ranking in the top third nationally for venues of its size category. The venue is classified as medium-sized, which presents challenges in attracting national tours or week-long shows, unlike larger venues such as Watford Colosseum. Despite these challenges, Watersmeet performs competitively within its category with some larger venues operating at significant losses, while a few venues manage to operate at a surplus.

Members raised concerns about the impact of recent cost increases and budget constraints on future financial projections. The officer highlighted that prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the theatre had generated a net surplus for 2 years running, which provides optimism for future financial stability. However, due to current budgetary limitations, it is a more cautious approach, with incremental improvements preferred over rapid progress, which would increase financial risk.

Additionally, staffing issues were also addressed, specifically the replacement of a technical staff member by January. The officer explained that while technical work is supported by casual staff and supplemented by partner organisations, this is only a short-term solution, and the permanent position needs to be filled to ensure long term operational stability.

Members expressed their appreciation and gratitude for the work that staff and volunteers do at the theatre.

The theatre’s turnover was highlighted by Members, noting a total cost reduction of £34,000, and enquiring about the nature of these savings. The officer explained the complexity of the financial arrangements, emphasising that turnover includes all sales, such as ticket and bar income. Improvements are attributed to more favourable profit-sharing arrangements with promoters and more efficient bar operations, resulting in better markups despite increased spending.

Councillor Andrea Fraser spoke on the item addressing concerns about the current management of the Watersmeet Theatre. The Councillor highlighted successful models like the Queen Park Arts Centre and Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, suggesting that Watersmeet can develop its unique identity while learning from these examples.

The officer responded by highlighting that these venues, mentioned as examples, are not direct competition due to differences in size, operating models and financial risk. Larger theatres can host  ...  view the full minutes text for item 19.

A new five-year management plan has been developed for Croxley Hall Woods, Croxley Green.

The new plan contains management actions for the woodland over the next five years from financial year 2025/26 until 2030/31. The detailed actions relate to woodland management for biodiversity and improvements to public access and interpretation.

Officers are recommending that the plan is approved by the Climate Change, Leisure and Housing committee and adopted by the Council. Should the plans be approved, Officers will seek to implement the actions within the plans over the next five years. Work will be completed within existing budgets or subject to external funding.

Recommendation

That the Climate Change and Leisure Committee:

·        Adopt the new 5-year Management Plan for Croxley Hall Woods

·        Give delegated authority to the Director of Finance to enter into a contract or funding agreement above the value of £25,000, subject to securing external funding to facilitate works to support the implementation of the Management Plans.

The Principal Trees and Woodlands Officer introduced the report.

Mr. Barry Grant spoke on the item highlighting what he viewed as limited community engagement, noting only 13 consultation responses received, and a lack of detailed feedback in the committee report. Key concerns raised by the speaker included the control of invasive ivy threatening tree health, the necessity for collaboration with neighbouring woodland owners such as the parish council, and London Underground TfL’s biodiversity plans, and opposition to proposed improvements to barrier access on Lavrock Lane, which residents feel is unnecessary. Additionally, the speaker sought clarification on the financial aspects of the woodland management plan, including budget specifics, reliance on external funding, and whether woodland maintenance is conducted by third-party contractors.

The officer acknowledged the points raised and expressed his preference to provide a written response. The Chair requested that the written responses be distributed to the committee members and sought input on whether to delay approval of the report until January or to partially approve it despite incomplete information. Officers confirmed that deferring the decision until January is feasible. The Chair also mentioned an alternative option of taking the report to the Policy & Resources Committee to avoid delaying work.

Members noted that a wider area of holly and ivy needing attention beyond what was initially mentioned in the report. It was also clarified that the access gate in question is located on parish council land. The Chair acknowledged the need to investigate the matter further and suggested noting the report and the questions raised. Councillor Chris Lloyd proposed that officers review the responses provided to residents and consider whether the matter should be taken to the Policy & Resources Committee or returned to the committee in January 2026.

Members expressed disappointment and raised questions about the consultation process, including how it was conducted, the time allowed for responses, and whether the low turnout indicated public disinterest. The Associate Director for Environment responded by explaining that the response rate was typical for such a management plan as residents tend to respond mainly when they disagree. Furthermore, the officer also assured that the consultation was conducted according to the usual consultation guidelines, promoted via social media and the council’s consultation platforms. Additionally, the officer noted that the variability in response rates can be attributed to human nature, where agreement often results in silence rather than feedback.

Members enquired whether any aspects of the plan would be missed or affected if delayed until January, and whether approval of certain parts could mitigate these effects. The officer explained that any urgent tree works, identified through general tree surveys, would continue as part of regular operations, ensuring critical tasks are not postponed despite the delay in approval of the plan.

Members continued to discuss the low response rates in certain consultations, contrasting them with more successful ones like the Eastbury play area. They advocated for more proactive engagement methods such as door-to-door outreach and physical presence in affected areas to increase participation and avoid costly rework.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 20.

Motion

Boulders on The Green, Croxley Green

Mr. Graeme Dibb addressed the committee highlighting significant community disquiet regarding the boulders on The Green and emphasised that the issues relate to the visual impact, conservation and safety concerns. The boulders have raised health and safety risks for pedestrians, cyclists and vulnerable users such as wheelchair and pushchair users, as well as children who might climb the boulders and fall into traffic. Alternative solutions proposed include reinstating posts or considering a bund and revisiting bylaws to allow traffic wardens to issue fines. The speaker questioned whether the boulders represent a material change to the Croxley Green Conservation Area’s unique character, suggesting that a formal planning application should have been submitted. The speaker urged the committee to a properly funded solution to replace the boulders with sustainable, conservation friendly measures.

Mr. Barry Grant addressed concerns regarding the boulders on The Green, stating that the community has expressed widespread negative feedback about the boulders. The speaker advocated for reinstating timber stakes, which previously contributed positively to The Green’s openness and heritage. The speaker highlighted the lack of cost assessment for replacing timber stakes and the Council’s claimed budget constraints. The speaker requested information about any risk assessment conducted and noted the absence of a conservation officer at the Council as a factor in the current situation. The Croxley Green Residents Association seeks collaboration with the Council and parish to remove the boulder, reinstall timber posts and better manage parking.

Councillor Cheryl Stungo addressed the committee emphasising the significance of the matter by noting the unprecedented level of public stir it has caused, and appealed for a calm, clear-headed review of the placement of the boulders.

Councillor Chris Mitchell introduced the motion and explained the background of the recurring parking issues on The Green. Attempts to secure funding for replacement posts faced budget constraints and partial funding rejections. Subsequently, it was decided to replace the posts with boulders, paid for by the parish council using CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) funds. The Council has received mixed feedback from residents, with the majority opposing the boulders. The Councillor offered his apologies for underestimating the impact and called for a full review involving officers and local councillors, and community groups. He urged the Lead Member, Councillor Chris Lloyd to lead the efforts to address safety, aesthetic and community concerns.

Councillor Chris Lloyd responded and proposed an amendment to the motion, emphasising collaboration between the parish council and district council to avoid impacting other ongoing district projects. The Councillor acknowledged community frustration and suggested a pragmatic approach that balances addressing the concerns with resource management. The amendment aims to keep costs lower for the district, involve councillors more directly in community engagement, and delay officer involvement until a clearer agreement is reached. Due to upcoming personal commitments, Councillor Lloyd will be unavailable for meetings until November and asked other councillors to engage with residents and the parish council.

The Associate Director for Environment read out the advice from the Head of Planning Policy & Conservation explaining that  ...  view the full minutes text for item 21.

To receive the Committee’s Work programme.

The Committee received and noted the work programme

RESOLVED:

To receive the Committee’s Work programme.

Summary

The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the Rickmansworth Aquadrome Programme, including funding progress and opportunities.

Recommendation

That the Climate Change and Leisure Committee:

·        Note the content of the report

·        Give delegated authority to the Director of Finance to enter into a contract or funding agreement above the value of £25,000, subject to securing external funding, or where a project is in existing/agreed budgets.

The Head of Leisure & Natural Infrastructure introduced the report. The Associate Director for Environment provided the most recent update on Ebury Play Area, informing the committee that the Council and its contractors continue to work together to agree a remediation plan, and as soon as a programme for that is agreed, it will be published to the public.

A Member raised concerns regarding the lack of communication on the continued closure of the Ebury playground and stated that the Japanese knotweed was spreading through the playground and the water due to it flowering. They emphasised the need for political leadership to resolve the issue, enquired about costs, potential litigation, and urged reopening the playground promptly to provide children with play facilities. The Associate Director for Environment responded by clarifying that the knotweed is not spreading through flowering due to the absence of male plants in the UK and as a result the Knotweed does not spread through flowering it spreads through rhizomes and it was confirmed that specialists have verified this. Furthermore, the officer stated that the playground will reopen only after successful remediation of the knotweed, with efforts focused on a quality solution minimising financial and maintenance risks. The officer also acknowledged the public’s desire for the playground but noted that alternative play areas are available in the area.

Members also expressed concerns regarding the lack of detail in the report on the woodland path’s continued closure and requested specific timelines for reopening. They also sought assurance about insurance coverage to protect officers from personal liability. The officer responded by explaining that the path is structurally unsafe due to flood damage and that the interim repairs would be costly and potentially temporary. A long-term sustainable solution is being designed as part of wider site improvement works, but the timeline is uncertain due to dependencies on flood risk assessments and environmental permits, which take six to nine months to obtain from the Environment Agency. Additionally, the officer emphasised the Council’s duty to use public funds wisely and to prioritise safety, stating that they will not reopen the path until is safe, and confirmed that the Council’s insurance is adequate but due diligence is required to ensure public safety.

Councillor Andrea Fraser spoke on the item in her capacity as a District Ward Councillor,  stating that decisions are being made behind closed doors, excluding ward councillors who represent local residents, and explained that the Aquadrome Steering Group meetings are not public, limiting transparency and participation and that she is invited as a Batchworth Community Councillor and not as a ward Councillor. The Councillor raised concerns regarding the neglected state of the Ebury play park, including the unresolved knotweed issue and ongoing closure, impacting families. The Councillor further raised concerns that improvement works would not commence until 2027 and not be complete until 2030. Additionally, the Councillor stated there has been a lack of consultation with ward councillors over signage placement and the cancellation of the Canal Festival due to an overly  ...  view the full minutes text for item 23a

The Climate Change, Sustainability, and Recycling Officer presented the report.

Members expressed gratitude towards the team for their continuous efforts and innovation, emphasising that their work is part of a broader, evolving strategy rather than a standalone document. The team is actively pursuing new contracts and advancing initiatives aimed at addressing climate requirements, with a particular focus on alleviating fuel poverty among families. A recent engagement with the UK100 conference reaffirmed the Council’s position as one of the most progressive councils in climate action. Additionally, there is a strategic approach to utilising heat from a forthcoming data centre in Abbots Langley, aiming to distribute this source across the network, including Watford. The team has secured a grant for a feasibility study related to this initiative.

The Chair highlighted the challenge of having to refer back to the detailed papers when reading the recommendation and proposed an amendment to the recommendation to include a bullet point summary of the new actions for easier reference, and for them to be captured in the minutes.

Members raised concerns regarding the wording of the recommendation relating to the delegation of authority to the Director of Finance for managing funds exceeding £25,000. The main issue highlighted was the lack of clarity on the ceiling limit for such delegated authority and the need for proper scrutiny to ensure accountability of taxpayers’ money. The officer responded by clarifying that the delegation relates only to externally secured grants linked to approved projects, not the Council’s own budget. The ceiling for delegated authority is governed by the Council's standard procurement regulations, and all financial activities under this delegation are subject to regular reporting and auditing through the Council’s finance reporting, Policy & Resources Committee and Full Council meetings.

Members argued that the current wording of the recommendation is too open-ended, potentially allowing the Director of Finance to enter into contracts of any size without Council approval. In response the officer reiterated that the delegated authority pertains specifically to accepting and spending external funds, such as a lottery fund, which must be used according to the grant condition. It was suggested that the word ‘external’ should be inserted in front of ‘funding agreement’ at iii. in the recommendation.

Councillor Jon Tankard moved the recommendation with the proposed amendments, seconded by Councillor Chris Lloyd.

On being put to the Committee, the motion was declared CARRIED by the Chair, the voting being by general assent.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee:

       i.          Notes the progress made in delivering the strategy.

      ii.          Agrees to the addition of new actions as outlined at paragraph 3.27:

• Support the delivery of the Hertfordshire Retrofit Strategy as a member of the Hertfordshire Retrofit Partnership agreed by this Committee in July 2025. 

• Build a network of local businesses and support them to decarbonise non-domestic buildings with technical and financial support where possible. 

• Work to secure feasibility funding for a Heat Network powered by the recently approved Data Centre in Abbots Langley.  

• Develop a sustainable travel communications plan for encouraging active travel,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 24.