1953 Clippings

On-going Research - Last updated 11 October 2014

 

 

 

5^th January 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

 

Staff

Improved Service Pay

I beg to submit in Appendix “H” a list of applications received and recommended for the Committee’s approval, the payments to take effect from the dates stated.

 

Appendix “H”

Improved Service Pay

 

Name & Age:                                  Carter, G.T. (24)

Designation:                                   Gdr. 1^st Cl.

Where Employed:                           Kings Heath

Date Commenced:                         10.8.42

Grant Recommended:                     2/-

To date from:                                  17.11.52

 

 

Non-Manual Staff - Annual Increments Recommended, 1^st April, 1953

Attached to this report is a schedule setting out the present salaries, gradings, age, length of service, etc., of the members of the staff of your Department, together with details of appropriate automatic increases within approved grades where holders of the posts are eligible.  Such increases are automatic, subject to no adverse report being submitted against any of the officers concerned.  In none of the cases which qualify for increment have I any adverse comments to make upon the officers set out in the schedule.  I therefore recommend that, subject to such amendments as may obtain arising out of any recommendations for alterations to the establishment referred to below, that the appropriate increases be implemented with effect from the 1^st April, 1953.

....................................

 

 

List of Salaries of Non-Manual Staff and Recommendations for Increases to take effect from the 1^st April, 1953

 

Name:                                                         Whiteley, AA.

Present Designation:                                   Pk.Supt; K. Heath Pk.

Age as at 1^st Apr. 1952:                               55

Length of service as at 1^st Apr. 1952:          21

Present Grade:                                             APT. IV. (Max)

Present salary (incl. emoluments if any):     £600

Value of emoluments (if any):                      £65

Min. & Max. Salaries within Grade:              £555-600

Increment Appropriate to Grade:                  -

Salary recommended:                                  £600

Remarks                                                       Max. of Grade reached

 

 

Improved Service Pay

 

13281   Resolved:-   That authority be given for the payment of Improved Service Pay to the employees named in Appendix “H” to the foregoing report at the rates and from the dates stated therein.

 

 

Non-Manual Annual Increments

 

13287   Resolved:-  That, subject to ..............., appropriate increases in respect of the salaries of non-manual staff, as set out in the schedule attached to the foregoing report, be implemented with effect from the 1^st April, 1953.

 

 

Alderman Alldridge submitted the following report of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee:-

 

Kings Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

I have to report that your Chairman and the Chairman of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee have approved in principle the use of part of King’s Heath Park House, then occupied by Mr. A. Lusher, for Mr. V.G. Collings, my newly appointed Senior Technical Assistant, as living accommodation at such time when it was vacated by Lusher.

Lusher has been fortunate in obtaining a prefabricated dwelling in the Warstock area, and his former accommodation is now empty.  The decorative condition of the building is very poor, and it is lighted by obsolescent gas fittings and, in addition, damage to the ceiling and wall plaster in one room has resulted from a leaking roof.

Following Lusher’s vacation of the premises, your Chairman on the 2^nd December last, gave his approval to the carrying out of redecorations, forming a new kitchen, bathroom and w.c., fixing new fuel saving fires in certain of the rooms, and to the installation of electric lighting.  This accommodation, as planned, will be self-contained and situated on the first floor, and not divided as previously between the ground and first floors.  A plan will be available at your meeting, showing the alterations.

The estimated cost of this work will be approximately £450, and following your Chairman’s approval, which was subject to the alterations being carried out in the most economical manner, I gave instructions for the work to be carried out Departmentally, with the exception of the electric lighting.

The Committee’s approval to this course of action is desired.

 

 

Kings Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

 

13309   Resolved:-   That the action taken in authorising the allocation of living accommodation at Kings Heath Park House and the improvements and repairs thereat as more particularly set out in the foregoing report, at an estimated cost of £450., be approved and confirmed.

 

 

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-

 

Entertainments in the Parks, 1953 – Suggested Programme

With reference to Minute No. 13,211 of the Parks Committee, approving the suggested programme of entertainments for the 1953 season, it will be remembered that Sparkhill Park was selected from three suggested parks for the period 13^th July – 8^th August.  In view of the fact that Small Heath Park will also be operating throughout this period and is in close proximity to Sparkhill Park, it is suggested that this period be allocated to King’s Heath Park, and that Sparkhill Park be allocated the period 15^th June – 11^th July, originally suggested for King’s Heath Park.  Both these periods are four weeks each, and it is felt that by changing them over there would be a better distribution of the entertainments provided and should result in improved attendances.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

 

Entertainments in the Parks, 1953 – Suggested Programme

 

13336   Resolved:-   That Minute No. 13211 be amended by the allocation, in connection with the 1953 Entertainments Programme, of the period 13^th July to 8^th August, 1953 to Kings Heath Park and 15^th June to 11^th July to Sparkhill Park.

 

 

Coronation Celebrations

 

In this connection, the Committee considered the relative portion of the General Manager’s supplementary report:-

 

Coronation Celebrations – Fireworks Displays

(a)   2^nd June, 1953 – 20 x £50 Displays

The following parks and recreation grounds are suggested for consideration, subject to suitable firing sites being available:-

 

(The list includes:-)    Muntz Park, Victoria Common and Selly Oak Park

 

(b)   6^th June, 1953 – 6 x £100 Displays

The following parks are suggested ......................

....................

 

 

Alderman Mrs. Hyde drew attention to the fact that in the suggested venues for firework displays no mention was made of Kings Heath Park, although three parks were mentioned in the Kings Norton and Selly Oak areas.

 

....................

 

It was finally:-

 

13337   Resolved:-   That the following proposals for entertainments in Parks, etc. during Coronation week be submitted for the Coronation Celebrations Committee for their concurrence, namely:-

 

(a)    ................

 

(a)   That approval be given, in principle, to the proposals referred to in the foregoing report for the provision of entertainments and firework displays at various sites, on the understanding that no charge is to be made to the public for admission thereto, and that the General Manager be instructed to submit a further report as to the final arrangements proposed, including the possible substitution of Kings Heath Park for one of the Parks in the Selly Oak area.

 

(b)   ..................

 

 

5^th January 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/6)

 

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Construction of Self Contained living accommodation on 1^st floor of Park House:  Contractor: Direct Labour.  Cost: Approx. £450.  Parks Committee Minute 13309 dated 5/1/53.

 

 

2^nd February 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.

 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Raison, A.E. (20)

Designation:                       Garden Boy A.

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:             15.12.52

Wages:                               £5. 16. 5.

 

 

Staff – Appointments

 

13384   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies, as set out in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

 

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-

 

Coronation Day Celebrations in the Parks

In accordance with your Committee’s instructions an advertisement was inserted in the local newspapers asking Coronation Party organisers to submit applications for the use of parks not later than the 31^st December, 1952.  Your Committee has already granted permission for 99 organisations to hold Coronation Celebrations in the parks, and I submit in Schedule “B” a list of 36 further applications received.  In each case the use of the park as requested is not likely seriously to interfere with the usual amenities in the parks concerned.

...................

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

Schedule “B”

Coronation Activities

 

Park:                      King’s Heath Pk.

Organisation:         -

Organiser:              Mrs. E. Dinnie, 54, Avenue Road, King’s Heath, 14.

Remarks:               Children’s Sports

 

 

Coronation Day Celebrations in the Parks

 

13448   Resolved:-   That the requests for the use of various parks and recreation grounds in respect of the Coronation celebrations 1953, as more particularly set out in Appendix “B” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-

 

Estimates 1953/54

(The following specific items were identified in the “Details of Expenditure” in a very long and complex report:-)

 

Kings Heath Park –

 

Maintenance of Drives & Footpaths

-       Tarspraying playground and path (£50)

-       Repairs to playground (£25)

 

Repairs, Alterations & Improvements

-       Horticultural Training School – Laboratories (£2,600)

-       Electric Light in cellar of Park House (£25)

-       New ¾ span greenhouse (£750)

 

 

Estimates 1953/54

 

13455   Resolved:-   That the draft estimates of the Committee for 1953/54 as submitted to the Finance Committee and as more particularly set out in the foregoing report, be approved.

 

2^nd March 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute
 

Councillor Horton presented the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-
 

Horticultural Training Scheme - Preliminary Report

The Departmental Horticultural Training Scheme has now been in operation since the 22^nd September, 1952, and a preliminary report on its activities is set out herewith for the Sub-Committee’s consideration.

As the Committee is aware, the Training Scheme made provision for the following Courses of Instruction:-
 

(a)   An Apprenticeship Scheme for Gardeners.

(b)   An Apprenticeship Scheme for Groundsmen.

(c)   A two year Advanced Course leading to the examination for the National Diploma in Horticulture for adult employees who have completed four years’ practical work and passed the General Examination of the Royal Horticultural Society.

(d)   A two year Elementary course leading to the General Examination of the Royal Horticultural Society open to all employees and held during the evenings at the College of Technology, Suffolk Street.
 

28 Apprentice Gardeners and 13 Apprentice Groundsmen were taken on to the Departmental strength on the 22^nd September, 1952.  Three Apprentice Gardeners resigned their posts before the Deeds of Apprenticeship were signed and the remaining 25 along with the 13 Apprentice Groundsmen completed indentures with effect from the 1^st October, 1952 or their 16^th Birthday, whichever was the later date.  Eight adult employees who had been selected for the two year Advanced Course commenced instruction on the 25^th September, 1952 and signed the training agreements with effect from the 1^st October, 1952.  Both groups of Apprentices and the Trainees taking the Advanced Course attend at the School of Training at King’s Heath Park, for one day each week, and tuition is given from 9 a.m. to 4-30 p.m.  The Apprentice Groundsmen attend on Mondays, Apprentice Gardeners on Tuesdays and the Trainees on Thursdays.  Instruction is given by suitably qualified members of the Departmental Staff recruited on a voluntary basis.

The Evening Course in Elementary Horticulture held at the College of Technology has proved very popular, and 54 employees enrolled for instruction which began on the 23^rd September, 1952.  Classes are held on both Tuesday and Friday evenings from 6-30 – 9 p.m.

At the end of December, 1952, a short Terminal Examination was set for the Apprentices and Trainees, in order to determine firstly, the progress which was being made, and secondly, the course and method of future instruction.  These examination results show that although there is a considerable variation in academic ability in all groups, on the whole considerable progress has been made.  Enthusiasm is high throughout, and it is felt that the continuance of the present method of instruction is justified.

For the Sub-Committee’s consideration, details are set out below of the various teaching timetables, the examination questions and markings, and reports which have been obtained from the various parks and golf courses where the Apprentices are employed:-
 

(There then follows 11 pages of course details and individual student reports – of great interest, but without further reference to King’ Heath Park apart from the following gleanings:-)
 

·    Mr. A.A.  Whiteley, the Superintendent at King’s Heath Park, lectured the Apprentice Gardeners on ”Vegetables”, between 1.30 and 2.30 p.m. on their study day.

·    Mr. A.J. Grace, an Apprentice Gardener at King’s Heath Park under the supervision of Mr. Whiteley there, was described as - “Punctual and obedient.  Always to be found at his work, but I must say he is slow, and not particularly interested.  He is not keen to ask questions or show enthusiasm and vitality.  He is a good type of boy, and I am hoping he will improve.

·    Mr. J.E. Knight, another Apprentice Gardener at King’s Heath Park also under the supervision of Mr. Whiteley, was described thus “Is keen, inquisitive, enthusiastic and works vigorously.  I think this boy will develop into a skilful and useful gardener.  He is punctual and tidy in his person.  Gardener speaks highly of him.”

 

Their markings were:
 

                                                                    A.J. Grace        J.E. Knight       

Botany:                                                        35                     33

Soils & Manures:                                         38                     32

Trees, shrubs & flowers in the open             55                     56

Vegetables:                                                 58                     53

Glasshouse Plants:                                     70                     67

Fruit:                                                            45                     25

TOTAL MARKS:                                        301                   266

POSITION:                                                  13                     17

 

B.B.C. Children’s Hour Garden Plots

In previous years, the Department has co-operated with the B.B.C. (Midland Region) in allocating Children’s Hour Gardening Plots at the following sites:-
 

Queens Park                                   Warley Park

King’s Heath Park                           Small Heath Park

Rookery Park                                  Pype Hayes Park

St. Paul’s Churchyard                     Handsworth Park
 

The Sub-Committee will remember that during last year the gardening plot at King’s Heath Park was featured in both sound and television broadcasts.

The B.B.C. have requested that these gardening plots should continue during 1953, on the same basis as last year.

Approval has been given and the Committee’s confirmation of this action is desired.

 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.
 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     Hughes, A.J. (59)

Designation:                      Gdn. Lab.

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:            14.1.53

Wages:                              £6. 2. 0.

 

Resignations

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the resignations as set out in Appendix “F” have been received.
 

Appendix “F"

Resignations

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     McAleer, J. (38)

Designation:                      Gdn. Lab.

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     9.1.53

Length of Service:              6 mths.
 

Name & Age:                     MacGregor, E. (24)

Designation:                      Female Wkr.

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     7.1.53

Length of Service:              3 mths.

 

Estimates, 1953/54

Proposed Reductions to Effect a Saving of £70,000 in Expenditure
 

(The following specific items were identified in a very long report:-)
 

Kings Heath Park –
 

Repairs, Alterations & Improvements

-       Electric Light in cellar of Park House (£25)

-       New ¾ span greenhouse (£750)

 

Horticultural Training Scheme - Preliminary Report
 

13476   Resolved:-   That the preliminary report of the horticultural training scheme, as now submitted, be approved; and that the General Manager be instructed to convey to the Senior Horticulturist and to the various tutors concerned this Committee’s appreciation of the excellent work which they have carried out in connection therewith.

 

B.B.C. Children’s Hour Garden Plots
 

13479   Resolved:-   That the action taken in granting permission to the B.B.C. to continue the children’s hour garden plots on sites in the parks more particularly set out in the foregoing report, during the 1953 season, on the same basis as last year, be approved and confirmed.

 

Staff – Appointments
 

13487   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies, as set out in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

Rate Estimates, 1953/54
 

13500   Resolved:-   That the proposed reductions to effect a saving of £70,000 in expenditure in the estimates of the Committee for 1953.54, as set out in the foregoing report, be approved, except that an item of £1,6000 only be included for the erection of a building at King’s Heath Park for the purpose of the horticultural training scheme; and that a further sum of £1,000 be allocated as a contingency item for repairs to greenhouses.

 

Alderman Alldridge submitted the following report of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee:-
 

Special Orders

Since the last meeting of the Sub-Committee, the following orders over £50 have been placed:-
 

Kings Heath Park

1 Sink Unit             Bordesley Builders                   £112. 9. 8.

4 Grates                             Supply Co.

1 bath                                B’ham.

1 Lavatory Basin

Order D.4911.                   

 

Special Orders
 

13520   Resolved:-  That the action of the General Manager in relation to special orders, as more particularly set out in the foregoing Report, be approved and confirmed.

 

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-
 

Coronation Celebrations – Firework Displays

The following list of suggested sites for the twenty firework displays to be given on Coronation Day was submitted to the last meeting of your Committee:-
 

Compiler’s note - The list did not include King’s Heath Park.
 

It will be remembered that I was instructed to report further on the possible substitution of King’s Heath Park for one of the parks in the Selly Oak area.  The list has also been submitted to the Outdoor Entertainments Sub-Committee of the Coronation Celebrations Committee and it was requested that consideration be given to providing fireworks at Sparkhill Park and also in the Shard End area.

It is difficult to visualize higher priorities for firework sites than those in the original list given above, but if the Committee so desire, it is suggested that an endeavour be made to obtain three more £50 displays to be sited at King’s Heath Park, Sparkhill Park and Glebe Farm Recreation Ground, which is in the Shard End area.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

Use of Parks for Coronation Celebrations

I submit in Schedule “C” a list of sixteen applications received from Coronation Party Organisers wishing to hold children’s parties, etc., in the parks.  In each case the use of parks as requested is not likely seriously to interfere with the usual amenities in the parks concerned.

I have received one or two applications from organisers of Coronation Parties in the parks chosen for firework displays for permission for the parties to continue on Coronation night after 10 p.m., which is the normal time for closing the parks.

As it is likely that the firework displays will not begin before about 10.0 p.m., I think it would be desirable for purposes of administration for your Committee to fix by resolution and publish on the notice boards at the parks concerned, the official time for these parks to close after the firework displays have been given.  I recommend that this time be fixed at 11.0 p.m.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.
 

Schedule “C”

Coronation Activities
 

Park:                                  King’s heath

Organisation:                     Grange Road C.F.

Organiser:                          Mrs. E. Ramsay, 239 Grange Rd, King’s Heath.

Remarks:                           Races, games, etc.

 

Coronation Celebrations – Firework Displays
 

13546   Resolved:-   That subject to the approval of the Coronation Celebrations Committee, arrangements be made for the provision of three additional £50 firework displays, in connection with the Coronation celebrations i.e. at King’s Heath Park, Sparkhill Park and Glebe Farm Recreation Ground, and that subject to the foregoing approval, Minute No. 13337 be amended and the Town Clerk informed accordingly.

 

Use of Parks for Coronation Celebrations
 

13560   Resolved:-   That the applications more particularly referred to in the foregoing report for the use of Parks and Recreation Grounds for Coronation Celebrations be granted.
 

13561   Resolved:-   That arrangements be made for the Parks and Recreation Grounds where firework displays are to be given during Coronation week to be closed at 11 p.m. on the evening affected.  

 

2^nd March 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/6)
 

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Fittings for the Flat, Kings Heath Park House:  Contractor: Bordesley Builders Supply Co.  Cost: £112. 9. 8.  Parks Committee Minute 13520 dated 2/3/53.

 

13^th April, 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute
 

Resolution of Public Works Committee

Extension to Garage and Store, Kings Heath Park
 

The following resolution of the Public Works Committee was submitted:-
 

Application for Approval.   (5.3.53)  DE.

King’s Heath Park – Vicarage Road
 

Proposal:                    Extension to existing Building to form garage and store

Applicant:                   Parks Committee

Observations:            This proposal constitutes permitted development within Class XIII of the General Development Order, 1950, but requires the approval of your Committee in accordance with General Instructions to Committees No. 40.

Recommendation:      Approve.

 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-
 

King’s Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

By your Minute No. 13309 of the 5^th January last, authority was granted for the allocation of living accommodation at King’s Heath Park House for Mr. V.G. Collings, my newly appointed Senior Technical Assistant.  The accommodation became available for occupation on the 16^th February, and I communicated with the City Estates Officer and asked him to value the premises for rental purposes and to let me have his recommendation for submission to your Committee.

I have now had his reply, in which he states that he is of the opinion that a fair weekly rental for this accommodation is £1. 10. 0. per week, tenant paying all rates and being responsible for inside decorations.

I am in communication with the Inland Revenue Authorities in regard to the revaluation of King’s Heath House for tax purposes consequent upon the reallocation of rooms.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.
 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                       Garner, S. (23)

Designation:                        Gdn. Lab.

Where Employed:                Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:              19.2.53

Wages:                                £6. 2. 0.

 

Termination of Services

I beg to submit in Appendix “G” a list of employees whose services have been terminated on the dates stated, as their services were unsatisfactory.
 

Appendix “G"

Termination of Services

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Gittus, T.W. (75)

Designation:                       Gdn. Lab.

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     27.2.53

Length of Service:              12 yr. 7 mths.

 

King’s Heath Park House – Living Accommodation
 

13661   Resolved:-   That Mr. V.G. Collings (Senior Technical Assistant) be granted the tenancy of the living accommodation at King’s Heath Park House, as referred to in the foregoing report, with effect from 16^th February, 1953 at a rental of £1. 10. 0d. per week, tenant paying all rates and being responsible for inside decorations, and that the Town Clerk be instructed to prepare and seal the necessary Service Tenancy Agreement.

 

Staff – Appointments
 

13667   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies, as set out in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

Staff – Termination of Services
 

13669   Resolved:-   That the action taken in terminating the services of employees, as more particularly set out in Appendix “G” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-
 

Coronation Celebrations

With regard to the engagements of bands, concert parties, children’s entertainers, etc. for 2^nd and 6^th June the following provisional programmeshave been drawn up:-
 

               2^nd June   The Famous Incemores    –    Punch & Judy

                                2.30 p.m.          King’s Heath Park

 

Coronation Celebrations – Firework Displays Firing Sites

The following suggested Parks and Recreation Grounds were approved by both your Committee and the Outdoor Entertainments Sub-Committee of the Coronation Celebrations Committee for the staging of the 20 firework displays booked for the 2^nd June, 1953, subject to suitable firing areas being available:-
 

The list contained Selly Oak Park, but not Kings Heath Park
 

Your Committee also approved the possibility of adding three additional sites subject to the approval of the Outdoor Entertainments Sub-Committee, and these were:-
 

Kings’ Heath Park

Sparkhill Park

Glebe Farm Recreation Ground
 

Enquiries were made of Messrs. James Pain and Son, Ltd., with regard to three further £50 displays, but they have now replied that they cannot undertake any further orders for fireworks.  In this respect it will be remembered that great difficulty was experienced in obtaining the displays already ordered.

The original twenty sites have now been examined to see if firing sites are available which are in accordance with the safety conditions advised by the suppliers.  Seventeen of the sites are suitable, but Highgate Park, Kingstanding Recreation Ground and Rookery Park are not suitable.

Of the three suggested additional sites, King’s Heath Park and Glebe Farm Recreation Ground have satisfactory firing sites, but Sparkhill Park is considered to be unsuitable and in addition there is the problem of noise affecting a nearby hospital.

In view of the above facts it is suggested:-
 

(a)   Highgate Park and Kingstanding Recreation Ground might be replaced by King’s Heath Park and Glebe Farm Recreation Ground.

(b)   Rookery Park might be replaced by either Pype Hayes Park or Aldridge Road Recreation Ground.
 

Pype Hayes Park and Aldridge Road Recreation Ground have not been submitted before, but both have suitable firing sites and several children’s parties will be taking place.

By this suggested arrangement the twenty displays already ordered would be utilised and it would not be necessary to provide further displays.

............................

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

Coronation Celebrations
 

13740   Resolved:-   That, subject to the approval of the Coronation Celebrations Committee, the recommendations of the General Manager with regard to the engagement of bands, concert parties and children’s entertainers on 2^nd and 6^th June, 1953, as now submitted, be approved.

 

Coronation Celebrations – Firework Displays – Firing Sites
 

13742   Resolved:-   That, subject to the approval of the Coronation Celebrations Committee, the report of the General Manager concerning the suitability of sites for firework displays, be approved, and that he be instructed to arrange for displays to be provided at King’s Heath Park, Glebe Farm Recreation Ground and Pype Hayes Park in lieu of those originally suggested at Highgate Park, Kingstanding Recreation Ground and Rookery Park; further, that for the reasons set out in the foregoing report, the General Manager be instructed to endeavour to arrange for suitable entertainments of a different type at Highgate Park.

 

4^th May 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute
 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-
 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.
 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Green, J.A. (Miss) (20)

Designation:                        Female Wkr.

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:              9.3.53

Wages:                               £6. 6. 8.

 

Staff – Appointments
 

13788   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies on the manual staff as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-
 

Kings Heath Park House – Repairs to roof

A member of your technical staff has recently carried out a detailed examination of the roof structure of the Park House, in connection with alterations to provide a laboratory for trainees at your Committee’s Scholl of Horticulture.

Access was gained into the roof space in the north wing by cutting a hole in the ceiling of one of the rooms, the usual means of entry to this area through a hatch being not possible, due to the absence of this form of opening.  It was found that physical deterioration of certain timbers had taken place, and their method of connection with metal spikes was structurally weak, these conditions having been accelerated by the ingress of damp over a number of years through numerous defects in the roof coverings.

In view of the reasonably sound condition of this property in general and to its use in addition to a training school, as living accommodation, “Sons of Rest” quarters, and as a restaurant, it is suggested that the roof covering, flashings flats, gutters, downpipes, vertical hangings and the like should be repaired, competitive tenders based on a departmental specification being invited for this work.

In your Committee’s Estimates for 1953-54, a sum of £250 was included for general repairs to structure at the “Rose and Crown” Lickey Hills.

It was necessary, however, to give orders for emergency repairs to be carried out at this property before a Departmental Specification could be prepared and competitive tenders invited, the cost being set against a sum included in the Annual Estimates to cover such a contingency.  Your Committee may decide, therefore, that the sum of £250 being no longer required to cover work at the “Rose and Crown”, could be set against repairs to the roof of King’s Heath Park House, the replacing of timber and similar work being carried out by your Artisan Staff.

The instructions of your Committee are desired.

 

Kings Heath Park House – Repairs to roof
 

13866   Resolved:-   That approval be given to the carrying out of repairs to the roof etc. at Kings Heath Park House, as more particularly set out in the foregoing report at an estimated cost of £250, such sum to be provided from the amount allocated in the current estimates for the repairs to the “Rose and Crown”, Lickey Hills; and that the General Manager be instructed to arrange for quotations to be obtained in respect of this work.

 

4^th May 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/7)
 

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Repair to roof of Park House:  Contractor: James Broomfield & Son.  Cost: £188.  Parks Committee Minute 13866 dated 4/5/1953 and 13936 dated 1/6/1953.

 

 

1^st June 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

Resolutions of Public Works Committee –

................ and

Conversion, Kings Heath Park House
 

The following resolutions of the Public Works Committee were submitted:-
 

Application No. 11823.  B.P.104676.  (14.4.53).  DE.

Kings Heath Park House, Kings Heath Park
 

Proposal:                   Conversion of two rooms into chemical and botanical laboratories.

Applicant:                  Parks Committee

Observations:            Town & Country Planning (Development by Local Planning Authorities) Regulations, 1951.

                                  The Parks Committee propose to convert two unused rooms on the first floor of Kings Heath Park House, one for use as a chemical laboratory and the other as a botanical laboratory.

                                  This proposal will not entail any structural alterations.

Recommendation:     Approve.
 

13902   Resolved:-   That the foregoing resolutions be received and entered on the Minutes.

 

King’s Heath Park House

Living Accommodation – Mr. V.G. Collings
 

On Minute No 13661 the following report of the Town Clerk was submitted:-
 

Report with reference to Minute No. 13661

King’s Heath Park House - Living Accommodation

I have to report that in accordance with the above Minute I have completed a Service Tenancy Agreement herein with Mr. V.G. Collings, at a rental of £1. 10. 0. per week, and the Minute can, therefore, be discharged.
 

13905   Resolved:-  that the foregoing report of the Town Clerk be approved and Minute No. 13661 discharged.

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-
 

Kings Heath Park – Horticultural School – Laboratories

Further to the proposed arrangements for the establishment of Chemical and Botanical laboratories in connection with the Horticultural Training School at the Park House, I have received the following quotations from local firms specialising in laboratory furnishing for the supply of benches equipped with gas, water and electric service points, and for certain incidental items of furniture, in accordance with a departmental specification:-
 

Mutter & Hall

     54, Harrow Road; B’ham. 29                               £736- 0- 0.
 

W. & J. George & Becker, Ltd.,

     157, Gt. Charles St; B’ham. 3.                            £761- 4- 0
 

Southall Bros. & Barclay (1934) Ltd.;

     220, Corporation St; B’ham. 4.                           £975- 0- 0
 

Philip Harris, Ltd.,

     63, Ludgate Hill, B’ham. 3.                                 £1.050-14- 0
 

Mutter & Hall, Ltd. who have submitted the lowest tender have, I understand from enquiries, carried out several contracts for Lewis’s Ltd., Old Square, and would appear to be a firm of repute, and your Committee’s acceptance of a tender is desired as an exception to Standing Instructions to Committees No. XXXIV.

An amount of £1,600 is set aside in your current Estimates for equipment for the Training School, and quotations are now being invited for the central heating installation, details of which will be submitted to your next meeting.

 

Kings Heath Park - Refreshment Room Tenancy

On the 26^th August, 1950, the City of Birmingham Restaurants Department took over the refreshment room at King’s Heath Park from the private caterer.  The premises were later valued for rental purposes by the City Estates Officer at £45 per annum, the tenants paying all outgoings and doing interior decorations.  As the interior was in a poor state of repair it was agreed that interior decoration would be carried out by your Department in the first instance.

The main dining room and kitchen were decorated for Easter last year, and as the Restaurant Department had been catering in somewhat unattractive conditions up to that time your Committee agreed to an allowance in rent of £20 for the period 26^th August, 1950, to 1^st January, 1952.  In making this allowance consideration was also given to the fact that the Restaurants Department had, at your Committee’s request, maintained continuity of service by taking over the refreshment room at short notice from the private caterer.

The Secretary has recently made application for a similar allowance in respect of the remaining room to the left of the main entrance, stating that although this room was now decorated it had been unusable during last summer because of its poor state of decoration, and that this had resulted in financial loss.

I felt that an allowance of £20 was rather excessive for this one room, and with the Secretary’s approval referred the matter to the City Estates Officer, asking him to give an independent valuation.

The City Estates Officer is of the opinion that an allowance of £15 for the twelve months ended 31^st March, 1953, would be reasonable, and your Committee’s approval to this amount is desired.

 

King’s Heath Park House – Repairs to Roof

By Minute No. 13,866, your Committee authorised the carrying out of repairs to the roof of the Park House at an estimated cost of £250, this sum being provided from the amount allocated in the current Estimates for repairs to the “Rose and Crown”, Lickey Hills.

A specification for this work has been prepared departmentally, and tenders have been received as follows:-
 

J. Broomfield & Son,

     316, Belgrave Rd; B’ham. 12.                             £188-0-0
 

F.S. Sharman,

     83, Livingstone Rd; B’ham. 14.                           £204-0-0
 

W. Street & Sons,

     184, Bristol St; B’ham. 5.                                   £225-0-0
 

Mr. W. Thornhill, 216, Albert Road, Birmingham, 21 was also invited to quote, but has failed to submit a tender.

J. Broomfield & Son have previously carried out work for your Committee in a satisfactory manner.

The instructions of your Committee as to acceptance of a tender are desired.

 

Kings Heath Park – Horticultural School – Laboratories
 

13925   Resolved:-  That the quotation of Messrs. Mutter & Hall for the supply of laboratory benches and certain incidental items of furniture at the Horticultural School Laboratories, Kings Heath Park, as more particularly referred to in the foregoing report, in the sum of £736, be accepted; that the matter be reported to the City Council in due course as an exception to Standing Orders; and that the Town Clerk be instructed to prepare and seal the necessary contract.

 

Kings Heath Park - Refreshment Room Tenancy
 

13931   Resolved:-   That, having regard to the circumstances set out in the foregoing report, the Civic Restaurants Department be granted an allowance of £15 in the rental in respect of the refreshment room tenancy at Kings Heath Park, for the twelve months ended 31^st March, 1953; and that the General Manager be instructed to inform the Secretary of the Civic Restaurants Department accordingly.

 

Kings Heath Park – Repairs to Roof
 

13936   Resolved:-   That the quotation of Messrs. J. Broomfield & Son for the carrying out of repairs to the roof of the Park House, Kings Heath Park, as referred to in the foregoing report, in the sum of £188 be accepted.

 

Living Accommodation – Kings Heath Park House
 

The General Manager reported that there were three rooms on the top floor of Kings Heath Park House which were capable of conversion into a flat.  The cost of this conversion, including the provision of the necessary fire escape ladder, would be about £300.  No provision was, however, made in the current estimates for this expenditure.  During discussion, the opinion was expressed that it would be highly desirable to make use of any living accommodation which could be provided on condition that a fair rent was obtained therefor.  He mentioned that Mr. D. Moore of the Head Office staff proposed to marry shortly, and suggested that the accommodation might be offered to this officer.  The Committee thought, however, that consideration should be given to all members of the staff both manual and non-manual who might wish to occupy the premises, before final decision was made.
 

13943   Resolved:-  That the General Manager be instructed to submit a full report to the next meeting of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee on the proposals for the conversion of three rooms on the top floor of Kings Heath Park House into a flat; and that the Sub-Committee be requested to consider and report on this matter, and also as to the member of staff of the Parks Department who might most appropriately be recommended for occupation of the premises.

 

1^st June 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/6)
 

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Furnishings for Horticultural School’s laboratory:  Contractor: Messrs. Mutter & Hall.  Cost: £736.  Parks Committee Minute 13925 dated 1/6/53.  Planning permission (Agmt. No. 399 dtd. 20/10/53) for the laboratory was granted by P.W. Committee on 14/5/53 (ref. Min. 13902 of 1/6/53)

 

6^th July 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute
 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-
 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.
 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                       Millington, H.J (4%)

Designation:                        P. Police

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:             10.5.53

Wages:                               £6. 9. 2.

 

Improved Service Pay

I beg to submit in Appendix “H” a list of applications received and recommended for the Committee’s approval, the payments to take effect from the date stated.
 

Appendix “H”

Improved Service Pay

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Freeman, S.C. (63)

Designation:                       Games Attd.

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Park

Date Commenced:             19.5.50

Grant Recommended:         2/-

To date from:                      19.5.53
 

Name & Age:                      Raison, A.E. (21)

Designation:                       Gdn. Boy  “A”

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Park

Date Commenced:             12.8.46

Grant Recommended:         2/-

To date from:                      7.7.53

 

Regradings

I have to recommend the regradings as set out in Appendix “J” for the approval of the Committee, to take effect from the dates indicated.  The services of the employees recommended have been satisfactory.
 

Appendix “J”

Regradings

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Green, J.A. (21)

Where Employed:               Kings Heath

Grading and Wages:

Present:                          Female Wkr. “A”   £5.19.8.

Recommended:              Gdn. 2^nd Cl.          £6.9.0.

Date Commenced:              9.3.53

To date from:                       26.5.53

 

Coronation Celebrations, 1953 – Special remuneration – Employees engaged on extraneous Duties

At the last meeting of the General Committee, approval was given to the payment of a special remuneration of £1-10-0 to each of the employees of the Department, on each occasion when their services were required in connection with operations on the actual firing sites for firework displays in the parks on Coronation Day, and Saturday, the 6^th June.

The following are the employees who operated, or were required to operate, in these displays, and your Committee’s authority is required for the payment of the appropriate amount to the individuals concerned:-
 

District 2.

Kings Heath Park               T.G. Harwood                Prop. Gdnr.

                                           J.B. Cooper                   Gdnr. 1^st Cl.

                                           D.S.H. Clements           Gdnr. 2^nd Cl.

 

Staff Appointments
 

13976   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies on the manual staff as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

Improved Service Pay
 

13979   Resolved:-   That authority be given for the payment of Improved Service Pay to the employees named in Appendix “H” to the foregoing report, at the rates and from the dates stated therein.

 

Staff Regradings
 

13980   Resolved:-   That the staff regradings, as set out in Appendix “J” to the foregoing report be approved and confirmed, such regradings to take effect from the dates stated therein.

 

Special Remuneration – Employees engaged on Coronation Firework Displays
 

13992   Resolved:-   That the action taken in giving authority for the payment of a special remuneration of £1.10.0d. to each of the employees more particularly referred to in the foregoing report who were engaged on work in connection with the firework displays in the parks on Coronation Day and 6th June, 1953, for each day upon which they were so engaged, be approved and confirmed; further, that the Coronation Celebrations Committee be requested to consider reimbursing this Committee with the total amount expended in this connection, i.e. £126.0.0d.

 

In the absence of Alderman Mrs. Hyde the Chairman presented the following report of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee:-
 

Living Accommodation – Kings Heath Park House

By Minute No. 13,943 of the General Committee, I was instructed to submit a full report to this meeting of your Sub-Committee upon proposals for the conversion of three rooms on the top floor of King’s Heath Park House into living accommodation.  The Minute was further to the effect that should you consider the proposals acceptable, then the question of their allocation to a member of the Parks Staff should be decided.

The Sub-Committee will remember that, apart from now being the main headquarters of your Apprentice Training Scheme, King’s Heath Park House provides accommodation for the “Sons of Rest”, the main park refreshment rooms and a flat recently converted for your Architect, Mr. Collings, upon the floor below the rooms forming the subject of this report.

In the meantime, the Chairman of your Sub-Committee, in company with me, inspected the house generally, and I set out hereunder a brief specification of work required to be done within an approximate estimate of £300, for which provision is not definitely made in your Estimates.

In view of the considerable amount of money spent upon the main structure of the building and services in consequence of its increased importance, you may think that if possible, the remaining vacant rooms should be made available for accommodation purposes.  A plan of the conversion will be available at your meeting and also a more detailed specification should you require it.  I understand that the appropriate officers would be prepared to recommend the scheme to the Public Works and Town Planning Committees for their acceptance for by-law and planning permission:-

It is proposed to utilise the three existing main rooms on the second floor to which access is gained by the rear staircase and to carry out the following work:-
 

Living Room –

(i).      Fixing a new tiled fireplace to replace the existing obsolete grate.

(ii).     Cutting a hole in the external wall and fixing a new window, to ensure a reasonable standard of daylight.

(iii).    Taking out the existing window and putting a French door in its place, to give access to a steel wall ladder fire escape, as required under local bye-laws.
 

Kitchen –

(i).      This is obtained by dividing the existing central room, the outer part providing a space for the bathroom.

(ii).     The creation of partition walls to form cupboards for food and dry storage.

(iii).    Fixing a sink unit and shelf in front of the window.

(iv).    Removing the existing grate and sealing up the opening.
 

Bathroom -

(i).      The erection of a partition to provide an airing cupboard.

(ii).     Fixing a w.c., bath and lavatory basin, with all necessary drainage.

(iii).    Cutting a hole in the external wall and fixing a new window for light and ventilation.

(iv).    Cutting an opening in partition wall for a new door.
 

Bedroom –

(i).      Erection of a partition wall to form cupboard space at the end where the ceiling level is low.

(ii).     Removing the existing obsolete grate and fitting an electric wall pattern fire.
 

Corridor -

Erecting a screen and door at the head of the stairs to make the flat self-contained.
 

General

(i).      The decorative condition of the rooms is extremely poor, and it will be necessary to redecorate throughout.

(ii).     The estimated cost of this work is not expected to exceed £300.

(iii).    The majority of the timber for the new partitions will be obtained from old partitions, etc. removed in connection with the provision of the laboratories on the first floor for the School of Horticulture.
 

In regard to the question of the allocation of the property, it is obvious that it is only suitable for a married couple without children, and as I have previously stated, Mr. Dennis Moore of your Chief Clerk’s Section, proposes to get married shortly and has asked to be considered for the accommodation, if you see fit to make it available.

As your Chairman will confirm, the existing flat occupied by Mr. Collings, and the proposed flat are in close proximity in a secluded wing of the house, and it is, I feel, particularly desirable that, confined as the Committee is for various reasons, to the selection of members of the Department for the occupation of the property, the compatibility of the personalities selected and their families is of importance.

I understand that in regard to the nomination I have made and the existing tenants no difficulty should be experienced in this direction, and on the understanding that a full economic rent will be paid, I make this submission to the Committee.

 

Kings Heath Park – Horticultural School Heating

As referred to in my report to the last meeting of the General Committee, the following quotations in connection with the proposed extension of the existing Park House central heating facilities to serve the Horticultural Training School have now been received:-
 

F. Evans & Sons, Ltd.,

     10 & 12, Gas St; B’ham. 1.                                 £567
 

Paragon Heating Co. Ltd.,

     33 & 35, Constitution Hill,

Birmingham, 19                                        £799
 

Ashwell & Nesbit Ltd.,

   12, Whittall St; B’ham. 4.                                    £807
 

G.N. Haden & Sons, Ltd.,

45, Gt. Charles St; B’ham. 3.                              Also invited to quote but failed to submit firm tender by time stipulated in enquiry.
 

Briefly the work entails replacing the existing boiler with one of larger output and the provision of additional piping and radiators to maintain a temperature of 65^oF allowing for two air changes per hour.

Individual plans and specifications illustrating the work involved will be available at your meeting, and of the £1,600 set aside in the current Estimates for equipment of the Training School, an amount of £864 is available for the above-mentioned heating installation.

The Ministry of Housing and Local Government have authorised the carrying out of this installation under Defence Regulation 56A, and in order to put the work in hand without delay, your Chairman has provisionally accepted the tender of F. Evans & Sons, Ltd. in the sum of £567, and your confirmation of this action is desired, as an exception to Standing Instructions to Committees No. XXXIV.

 

Living Accommodation – Kings Heath Park House
 

After a very lengthy discussion on the question of a tenant for the premises, it was finally:-
 

14014   Resolved:-   That approval be given for the scheme for the conversion of three rooms at Kings Heath Park House into living accommodation as more particularly detailed in the foregoing report at a total estimated cost of £300; that in the circumstances now reported Mr. Dennis Moore of the Parks Department Head Office Staff, be allocated this accommodation; and that the General Manager be instructed to report further concerning the rental to be charged for this accommodation with a view to the Town Clerk preparing the necessary agreement.

 

Kings Heath Park – Horticultural School Heating
 

14023   Resolved:-   That the quotation of F. Evans & Sons Limited for the provision of heating facilities at the Horticultural School in Kings Heath Park as referred to in the foregoing report, in the sum of £567 (sic);  that the matter be reported to the City Council in due course as an exception to Standing Orders; and that the Town Clerk be instructed to prepare and seal the necessary contract.

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-
 

Annual Parks Inspection 1953

At the last meeting of your Committee, it was decided to hold the Annual Inspection of Parks on the 31^st instant and I was instructed to prepare for your consideration a suitable itinerary for the occasion.  It will be remembered that it was also decided to hold the official opening of the Garden for the Blind during the course of this inspection, and I therefore suggest the following itinerary:-
 

Place                                                                     Arrive                Depart

Council House                                                                                 10 a.m.

Cannon Hill Park                                                    10.10 a.m.         11 a.m.

King’s Heath Park (including

                 Training School)                                    11.10 a.m.         11.35 a.m.

Quinton Nurseries (Departmental

                 Tree & Shrub Nursery)                          12 noon             12.40 p.m.

Lunch at the “Queens Highway” Hotel                   12.45 p.m.         2.45 p.m.

Queens Park                                                          3 p.m.                4 p.m.

                                                                 (Opening of Garden

                                                                    for the Blind)

Lickey Hills                                                              4.30 p.m.

     (Tea at the “Rose & Crown”)
 

The Committee’s approval is desired.

 

Annual Parks Inspection 1953
 

14056   Resolved:-   That the programme for the annual parks inspection on 31^st July, 1953 as set out in the foregoing report be approved, but that the possibility of the inclusion of less well-known parks at future inspections be borne in mind.

 

6^th July 1953 - Parks Department (Operations Card 55 C/H/6/1)
 

Tenancy – 2^nd Floor Flat, Kings Heath Park House

Kings Heath Park House – Self contained flat on top floor consisting of Living Room, Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom.
 

Living Room                  approx size 14’ x 18’3”

Bedroom                       approx size 13’6” x 15’3”

Kitchen                          approx size 8’9” x 14’6”

Bathroom and toilet       approx size 5’6” x 14’6”
 

Parks Committee Min. No. 14014 of 6^th July 1953 gave authority for the top floor of Kings Heath Park House (which had previously been void for a number of years) to be converted into a self contained flat at an estimated cost of £300 (including the provision of the necessary fire escape) – Min. No. 13943 of 1^st June 1953 also refers.
 

(1)    Tenant responsible for interior decoration.
 

The fixtures which are the property of the Corporation:-

BEDROOM – one 2-bar electric fire.

Corridor – One Battery operated door bell.

 

6^th July 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/7)
 

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Conversion of top floor, Kings Heath Park House, into self-contained flat:  Contractor: Direct Labour.  Cost: Approx £300.  Parks Committee Minute 14014 dated 6/7/53.  Planning Permission P.W. Committee Min. No. 50,459 (P.C. Min. No. 14071 of 27/7/53 refers)

 

6^th July 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/7)

Kings Heath Park - Buildings

Central heating installed at Horticultural School:  Contractor: F. Evans & Sons Ltd.  Cost: £567.  Parks Committee Minute 14023 dated 6/7/53.  Ag. No. 391 dated 6.8.1953.


27^th July 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

Resolution of the Public Works Committee – Planning Permission (a) Provision of flat, King’s Heath Park House; (b) “Daughters of Rest” Pavilion, Selly Oak Park.

 

The following resolution of the Public Works Committee was submitted:-

 

Application No. 11823/1.  B.P.105278.   (9.7.53)   DE. XIX-1

King’s Heath Park House, King’s Heath Park, Vicarage Road.

 

Proposal:              Conversion of void accommodation into flat.

Applicant:              Parks Committee.

Observations:     Town and Country Planning (Development by Local Planning Authorities) Regulations 1951.

 

On 14^th May 1953, your Committee approved the use of 2 other void first floor rooms as chemistry and botanical laboratories.

It is proposed to convert accommodation which is at present void into a self-contained flat to be occupied by a member of the Parks Department Staff.

 

14071   Resolved:-   That the foregoing resolution be received and entered on the Minutes.

 

 

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.

 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Watson, S. (37)

Designation:                        Parks Police

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:              22.6.53

Wages:                                £6. 9. 2.

 

 

Resignations

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the resignations as set out in Appendix “F” have been received.

 

Appendix “F”

Resignations

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Millington, H.J. (45)

Designation:                        Parks Police

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     10.5.53

Length of Service:               -

 

 

Police Report – Serious Accidents

Since the last meeting of your Sub-Committee there have been 40 serious accidents dealt with in the parks and the patient sent to hospital.  There were also 290 minor injuries treated and the patients sent home.  Details of serious accidents are given in Appendix “L”.

 

Appendix “L”

Police Report – Serious Accidents

 

Date:                                 10.6.53

Park:                                  Kings Heath Pk

Name & Age:                     David Godwin (9)

Nature of Injury:                 Punctured wound in lt. foot.

Cause of Injury:               Attempting to drive spike of putting flag in to the ground, punctured his foot.

 

 

Staff Appointments

 

14095   Resolved:-  That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies on the manual staff, as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-

 

King’s Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

The Committee will recall that by Minute No. 14,014 of the 6^th instant, authority was granted for the allocation of living accommodation at King’s Heath Park House to Mr. D.W. Moore of your Head Office Staff, at a rental to be assessed by the City Estates Officer.

The premises have now been valued for rental purposes, and the City Estates Officer advised me that he is of the opinion that a fair weekly rental would be 17/6d. per week, tenant paying all rates and being responsible for the inside repairs.

The Committee’s approval of the foregoing is requested, with a view to the Town Clerk preparing the necessary agreement.

 

 

King’s Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

 

14172   Resolved:-   That Mr. D.W. Moore be charged a rental of 17/6d. per week in respect of the living accommodation at King’s Heath Park House, as referred to in the foregoing report, the tenant to pay all rates and to be responsible for inside repairs; and that the Town Clerk be instructed to prepare and seal the necessary Agreement.

 

 

25^th August 1953 – BCC Parks Committee (Special Meeting) Minute

 

Horticultural Training Scheme

This meeting was called following the interviewing of candidates for the Training Scheme.  Two questions had arisen.  Should suitable candidates from outside the City be admitted to the course?  Should suitably qualified female candidates be admitted?

 

There was reference to the decision taken and recorded in Minute No. 13,015: there one of the reasons for refusing candidates from outside the City was that there were “limited facilities for giving instruction at King’s Heath Park”.

 

Following discussion it was agreed that only suitably qualified candidates resident inside the City be accepted onto the training course; and that girls resident in the City and suitable for training would also be accepted.  But arising from this latter decision it was:-

 

14198   Resolved:-   That the General Manager be instructed to ensure that the necessary separate lavatory accommodation is made available for girls admitted to the departmental training scheme.

 

 

1^st September 1953 - Parks Department (Operations Card 55 C/H/6/1)

 

Tenancy – 2^nd Floor Flat, Kings Heath Park House

Tenant: D.W. Moore.  Commences 1/9/53.  Terminates 31.1.1958.  17/6 p.wk plus rates.  Minutes 14014 of 6/7/1953 and 14172 of 27/7/1953 refer.

 

 

18^th September 1953 - Parks Department (Operations Card 55 C/H/6/1)

 

Tenancy – 2^nd Floor Flat, Kings Heath Park House

Flat assessed for rating purposes at £22 gross, £15 Rateable Value.  (Proposal dated 18^th September 1953)

Water supply to the flat is not separately registered and the tenant is therefore charged a fixed water rate based on the City of Birmingham Water Department’s charges for direct supply to domestic properties.  This charge is 12½% of the Rateable Value per annum plus 3/- half yearly for supply to bath (Assessments under £25 Rateable Value).

 

 

5^th October 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

 

Kings Heath Park House – Living Accommodation – Mr. D.W. Moore

 

On Minute No. 13412 the following report of the Town Clerk was submitted:-

 

Kings Heath Park House – Living Accommodation

I have to report that in accordance with the above Minute I have completed a Service Tenancy Agreement with Mr. D.W. Moore in respect of the above accommodation, at the rent of 17s. 6d. per week, and the Minute can, therefore, be discharged.

 

14229   Resolved:-  That the foregoing report of the Town Clerk be approved and Minute No. 13412 discharged.

 

2^nd November 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

Councillor Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

Horticultural Training Scheme – First Annual Report

(This is a very long and detailed report – only those parts referring to the park specifically are reproduced here.)

The Departmental Horticultural Training Scheme has now been in operation since the 22^nd September, 1952, and the first annual report on its activities is set out herewith for your Committee’s consideration.

.................

 

School Premises and Facilities

The Committee is aware that the School of Training is located at King’s Heath Park where initially, one room of the Park House was adapted for lecturing purposes.  In June and July last year, your Committee sanction expenditure for the conversion of other rooms for teaching purposes, and also for the installation of central heating in these rooms.  This work is almost completed, and the instructional facilities will then include the following, in addition to the existing lecture room:-

 

Botanical Laboratory

Chemical   “

Library

Cloak and Locker Room

Tool Store

 

It is considered, however, that theoretical and scientific instruction in itself is not sufficient without its practical counterpart, as candidates for the Royal Horticultural Society’s examinations are required to have a knowledge of fruit and vegetables in addition to ornamental plants, and in certain examinations to undergo a comprehensive practical test at the Society’s Wisley Gardens.

Endeavour has, therefore, been made at King’s Heath Park to provide as many practical facilities as the amenities of the park permit.  A small fruit garden has been constructed and planted with a wide variety of top and soft fruits, trained in various manners.  The walled garden at the park is now used for growing vegetables, and a Peach, a Nectarine and three Vines have been established in one of the greenhouses.  The Conservatory, which is open to the public, is maintained throughout the year with a wide variety of ornamental greenhouse plants, so that the apprentices and trainees may become familiar with them and with their cultivation.  Further, plots of the various types of grasses used in turf culture have also been established so that the Apprentice Groundsmen in particular may become acquainted with their characteristics.

The normal facilities of the park, such as the shrubberies, herbaceous borders, flower beds, rose beds, bowling greens, tennis courts, football and cricket pitches, are also available and are used for practical teaching purposes.  Some vegetables are also grown at other parks to supplement these facilities at King’s Heath.

 

Teaching Staff and Instruction

During the past academic year, instruction at the School of Training has been given by suitably qualified members of the Departmental Staff on a voluntary basis and co-ordinated by the Senior Horticulturist.  A list is set out below giving details of the subjects on which each member gave instruction:-

 

(From a list:-)

A.A. Whiteley    –    Supt. Kings Heath Park    -    Vegetables

 

........................

 

Expenditure incurred during the period Aug. 1952 – Sept. 1953

 

(a)   Initial Expenditure

Purchase of School equipment

(Tables, chairs, blackboard, chemicals, lantern projector, etc.)  £300- 0- 0

Purchase of garden equipment

(Fruit trees, bushes, tools, etc.)                                                   £120- 0- 0

Installation of Central Heating                                                             £570- 0- 0

Construction of laboratories                                                                £700- 0- 0

                                                                                                          £1690- 0- 0

 

(b)   Annual Expenditure

Estimated value of instructors’ time                                                    £514- 0- 0

Estimated travelling expenses of instructors

         travelling to King’s Heath Park                                                   £  10- 0- 0

Rates of King’s Heath Pk. Hse.                                                           £  60- 0- 0

Electricity (estimated cost)                                                                   £  22- 0- 0

Coal (estimated cost)                                                                           £  10- 0- 0

                                                                                                             £616- 0- 0

 

Notes

(1)   In adapting King’s Heath Park House for use as a school, it was found necessary to convert an existing bathroom into a washroom for the use of the students, and also to carry out certain repair and decoration work to the fabric of the buildings.  These items were undertaken be Departmental labour at a cost of £220-0-0.

(2)   The envisaged development of the School of Training provides for the purchase of additional tools, books and laboratory equipment such as microscopes, microscope lamps, an electric oven, water distiller, etc., and it is hoped to include a sum of £350 for this in the Estimates for 1954-55.

 

.......................

The results of the end of session examinations, together with reports which have been obtained from the parks and golf courses where the apprentices are employed are set out in the attached schedules “A”, “B” and “C” for your Committee’s consideration.         

 

Schedule “A”

Apprentice Gardeners Terminal Tests

 

                                                                    A.J. Grace        J.E. Knight       

Botany:                                                        25                     40

Soils & Manures:                                         30                     25

Trees, shrubs & flowers in the open:           48                     35

Vegetables:                                                  48                     46

Glasshouse Plants:                                      42                     60

Fruit:                                                             63                     64

TOTAL MARKS:                                         256                   270

POSITION:                                                    16                     15

 

 

Schedule “C”

Report of Practical Work from Officer-in-Charge

 

Grace, A.J.

A well behaved youth, obedient and steady, but lacks initiative.  He is, however, a useful member of the staff.

Kings Heath Park, Park Supt., Mr. A.A. Whiteley

 

Knight, J.E.

Quite good at his work – very useful.  Should appreciate that at times it is necessary for skilled gardeners to tackle the routine and less interesting garden work.

Kings Heath Park, Park Supt., Mr. A.A. Whiteley

 

 

Horticultural Training Scheme – Intake of Apprentices

.....................................

Applications for advanced training under your Committee’s Scheme were received from the following members of the Departmental Staff and were approved by the Selection Board consisting of your Chairman, the Chairman of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee and Alderman Denton, at the meeting on Tuesday, the 18^th August, 1953:-

 

(From a list of 4:-)

Name & Address:               Cooper, J.B., 31, Cranmore Rd; Shirley.

Grade:                                Gardener, Cl. I.

Where Employed:               King’s Heath Pk.

 

The Committee’s confirmation of the selection of the above-mentioned and authority for the Town Clerk to prepare and seal the necessary indentures and training agreements is desired.

 

 

Staff

Resignations

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the resignations as set out in Appendix “F” have been received.

 

Appendix “F”

Resignations

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                      Wall, T. (49)

Designation:                       Gdn. Lab.

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     3.7.53

Length of Service:              3 years

 

 

Regradings

I have to recommend the regradings as set out in Appendix “J” for the approval of the Committee, to take effect from the dates indicated.  The services of the employees recommended have been satisfactory.

 

Appendix “J”

Regradings

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     Raison, A.E. (21)

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Grading & wages:

     Present:                        Garden Boy                  £5. 19. 8.

     Recommended:            Gdn. 1. Cl.                    £6. 13. 0.

Date Commenced:            12.8.46

To date from:                     7.7.53

 

Name & Age:                     Cooper, J.B. (27)

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Grading & wages:

     Present:                        Gdn. 1. Cl.                    £6. 13. 0.

     Recommended:            Gdn. 1. Cl. (RHS)          £7. 0. 0.

Date Commenced:             27.5.52

To date from:                     1.6.53

 

 

Serious Accidents

During the months of July, August and September there were 107 serious accidents dealt with in the parks and the patients sent to hospital.  There were also 1,358 minor injuries treated and the patients sent home.  Details of Serious Accidents are given in Appendix “L”.

 

Appendix “L”

Serious Accidents

 

Date:                                 2.9.53

Park:                                 Kings Heath Pk.

Name & Age:                    David Clark (12)

Nature of Injury                 Suspected fracture of wrist

Cause of Injury:                 Fell while at play

 

 

Municipal Tenants Gardens Competition, 1953

On the 13^th April last, your Committee received a resolution of the Housing Management Committee, stating that authority had been given for the organisation of the Municipal Tenants’ Gardens Competition, 1953, on similar lines to previous years, including the making of reasonable payments as hitherto to members of the Parks Department Staff and others in connection with judging, etc.

I have to report that since the completion of judging in the Competition, a sum of £54 has been received from the Housing Manager in connection with honoraria for the assistance of your Committee’s employees in judging the gardens, and this has, in accordance with the usual practice, been dispersed in the form of £3 to each of the 18 employees concerned, who are as follows:

 

(From a list:-)

Mr. A.A. Whiteley               Officer-in-charge, King’s Heath Park

 

The Committee’s confirmation of the action taken is desired.

 

 

Horticultural Training Scheme – First Annual Report

 

14344   Resolved:-   That the first Annual Report of the Horticultural Training Scheme, as now submitted, be approved and that the General Manager be instructed to convey to the Senior Horticulturist the Committee’s sincere thanks and congratulations in connection with the organisation and conduct of the scheme.

 

 

Horticultural Training Scheme – Intake of Apprentices

 

14346   Resolved:-   That the action taken in selecting applicants for training as Apprentice Gardeners, Apprentice Groundsmen, and Advanced Trainees in connection with the Horticultural Training Scheme, as set out in the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed, .....................and that the Town Clerk be authorised to prepare and seal the necessary Indentures and Training Agreements in connection therewith.

 

 

Staff Appointments

 

14351   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies in the manual staff, as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

 

Staff – Regradings

 

14355   Resolved:-   That the staff regradings, as set out in Appendix “J” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed, such regradings to take effect from the dates stated therein.

 

 

Municipal Tenants’ Gardens Competition, 1953

 

In this connection the following resolution of the Establishment Committee was submitted:-

 

Housing Management Committee – Municipal Tenants Garden Competition, 1953 – Extraneous Fees

3030   Resolved:-   That the action of the Investigation Sub-Committee be confirmed in approving the proposal of the Housing Management Committee to make a payment on the lines indicated in their Minute No. 1433 to the Parks Committee in respect of judging undertaken by members of the Parks Department at the Municipal Tenants Garden Competition for 1953, subject to the Parks Committee submitting, for the approval of this Committee, details of the amount apportioned to each employee concerned.

 

14367   Resolved:-   That the action taken in disbursing the sum of £54 received from the Housing Management Committee in connection with the honoraria for assistance in judging gardens in connection with the Municipal Tenants’ Gardens Competition, 1953, on the basis of £3 to each of the 18 employees, more particularly detailed in the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed, and that the Establishment Committee be informed accordingly.

 

 

In the absence of Councillor Broughton, the Chairman submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-

 

Entertainments in the Parks, 1953 Season

(Relevant extracts only, from a very long report)

 

Entertainments

 

Summer Theatres were erected in the following parks:-

 

(From a list of 8:-)

Kings’ Heath          13^th July – 8^th August                  4 weeks

 

................

Average attendances at parks where Summer Theatres were erected were as follows:-

 

(From a list of 8:-)

Park                      No. of weeks 1953        Average            Average            Average

                                                                 1953                 1952                 1951

 

King’s Heath                      4                      184                   199                   235

 

 

Voluntary Chief Marshals – Honoraria

 

Voluntary Chief Marshals rendered valuable assistance at the Summer Theatres during the past season.   ................

The following schedule of suggested payments for subsistence, travelling and other expenses is submitted for the Committee’s consideration.  Payment is estimated, as in previous years, at the rate of £1-1-0. per week for attendance at evening performances, and where Chief Marshals were able to attend matinees, payment of £1-1-0. per week is also included.

 

(From a list of 8:-)

Kings Heath           Mr. W.T. Cutts               4 (evenings)     

          2 (matinees)                  £6-6-0.

 

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

 

Voluntary Sound and Lighting Operators – Honoraria

Where available, voluntary helpers were used to operate the sound and lighting equipment, and at other times members of the Parks Staff undertook this work.  It is felt that the Committee might wish to consider making some payment for travelling, subsistence, etc. to the voluntary helpers, as was done last year, at the rate of £1-1-0. per week.  The following schedule is submitted for consideration:-

 

(From a list of 6:-)

Kings Heath           Mr. T. Day                     3 (evenings)                  £3-3-0.

 

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

 

Tennis Courts – Future Policy

In accordance with Committee Minute No. 14,166, I have had a survey made of the Tennis Courts and submit the following report:-

 

Summary of Reports on Grass Tennis Courts

by District Superintendents

 

(From a list of 28 sites:-)

District No. 2.

Site:                                   Kings Heath Park

No. of Courts:                    4

Condition:                          Poor

Remarks:                           Moderate use

 

There will always be a demand for good quality grass tennis courts, as these give a combination of essential playing characteristics which are not found in any other type of court, but the overwhelming desire on the part of the players in the parks is for hard all-weather courts as these can be played on without much delay after wet weather, and also during the winter months.

The Sub-Committee may, therefore, feel that the present policy of laying hard courts, whenever new courts are being provided, should be continued, and that from time to time whenever financial circumstances permit, certain grass courts should be converted to hard courts where no hard courts are in existence and  where play is extensive.

The present methods used in the maintenance of grass courts are that baseline areas which suffer from excessive wear and tear are returfed in the autumn of one year, but if played on to a similar extent the following year, are in many cases not sufficiently robust to stand up to such use, deteriorate rapidly and the worn area increases.  The solution of this problem would be to rest courts on a rota basis after returfing, and to prohibit play completely for one season to give the turf time to settle down and become established.

It is also suggested that the older courts, where over a number of years compaction has resulted, should be ploughed up and reconstructed, as forking will not relieve the compaction to an extent to allow the necessary growth of grass.  If this policy is adopted, it would mean that the courts would be out of use for one season.

As an experiment, this method of braking up and reseeding was undertaken on one of the courts at Handsworth Park last year.  It was ploughed up at the close of the 1952 season, reseeded in the Spring of 1953, and providing there are no set-backs from weather or other causes, will be in good condition for play in the spring of 1954.  This meant that the court was out of use for the whole of the 1953 season.

If your Committee decide to adopt this policy so far as the older courts are concerned, it is suggested that the following courts be closed for the 1954 season and completely renovated by ploughing up and reseeding.  They would then be ready for play at the beginning of the 1955 season:-

 

(From a list of 7 parks:-)

District 2.

Park:                                             King’s Heath

Total No. of Courts:`                     4

No. to be renovate:                       2

 

It is also suggested that as and when financial circumstances permit, the following are sites where it is considered that demand is sufficient to recommend the replacement of grass courts by All-Weather Courts:-

 

(There is then a list of 14 parks, but it does not include King’s Heath.

 

....................................

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

 

Voluntary Chief Marshals – Honoraria

 

14414   Resolved:-  That honoraria be paid to the Voluntary Chief Marshals who rendered assistance in connection with the entertainments in various parks during the 1953 season, as follows:-

 

(From a list for 8 parks:-)  

Kings Heath Park                         Mr. W.T. Cutts               £6. 6. 0d.

 

 

Voluntary Sound and Lighting Operators – Honoraria

 

14415   Resolved:-  That honoraria be paid to the Voluntary Sound and Lighting Operators in connection with the entertainments in various parks during the 1953 season, as follows:-

 

(From a list of 6 parks:-)   

Kings Heath Park                         Mr. T. Day                     £3. 3. 0d.

 

 

Tennis Courts – Future Policy

 

14420   Resolved:-   That, having regard to the circumstances set out in the foregoing report, authority be given for the closing of the undermentioned grass tennis courts for the 1954 season and the complete renovation thereof by breaking up and re-seeding, subject to the necessary provision being made in the estimates for 1954/55, viz:-

 

(From a list of 7 parks:-)

Kings Heath                                 2 Tennis Courts to be renovated

 

 

The following report of the General Manager was submitted:-

 

Provision of Illuminated Christmas Trees, 1953

At the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee meeting on the 12^th October, I was instructed to report to your full Committee on the question of the provision and cost of illuminated Christmas trees during the 1953-54 Christmas period.

As last year, it is recommended that thirteen trees be erected at the following sites:-

 

The list includes King’s Heath Park

 

Subject to your Committee’s approval, arrangements will be made for the trees to be purchased and erected on these sites, and for the Midlands Electricity Board to be approached with regard to the electric installations.

The estimated cost of the purchase, installation and illumination of thirteen trees during the Christmas period is as follows:-

 

Purchase of 13 Norway Spruce, 20 ft. – 25 ft. @ 80/- each         £52-0-0.

Transport of trees from Nursery                                                   £15-0-0.

Electrical installation and illumination

                 by Midlands Electricity Board                                     £413-0-5

                                                                                                    £480-0-5.

 

It is suggested that the trees be illuminated for the period from Saturday, the 5^th December, 1953 to Saturday, the 2^nd January, 1954, both dates inclusive, and that the hours of illumination be from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on each evening.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

 

Provision of Illuminated Christmas Trees, 1953

 

In this connection the suggestion was made that it might be desirable to consider a possible alteration in the location of Christmas Trees for future years, as it might be that in certain cases better sites could be found than those set out in the report.

 

14434   Resolved:-   That the General Manager be instructed to proceed with the arrangements for the provision of illuminated Christmas Trees at the various sites, as more particularly set out in the foregoing report, for the period from 5^th December, 1953 to 2^nd January, 1954, both dates inclusive, at an estimated cost of £480. 0. 5d., the trees to be illuminated from 4.0 p.m. to 11.0 p.m. each evening; and that the General Manager be instructed to submit proposals for the allocation of trees at various sites at an earlier date in 1954 so that consideration may be given to alternative sites.

 

 

1^st December 1953 – Parks Department (Operations Card 55 EF/7)

 

Kings Heath Park - Layout

4 teak seats (2^nd allocation, Keep Bequest):  Contractor: Messrs. Barlow Tyric & Co. Ltd.  Parks Committee Minute 13158 dated 1/12/53.

 

 

7^th December 1953 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

 

Councillor E.W. Horton submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

 

Staff

Appointments

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the appointments as set out in Appendix “E” have been made.

 

Appendix “E”

Appointments

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     DeMain, D. (Mrs) (62)

Designation:                      Cleaner

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Date Commenced:            29.9.53

Wages:                             2/0 7/8 d. per hour (Compiler’s note – i.e. 2 shillings and seven eighths of a penny)

 

 

Resignations

Since the last meeting of your Committee, the resignations as set out in Appendix “F” have been received.

 

Appendix “F”

Resignations

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     Watson, S. (37)

Designation:                       Parks Police

Where Employed:               Kings Heath Pk.

Date Ceased:                     17.10.53

Length of Service:              3 mths.

 

 

Regradings

I have to recommend the regradings as set out in Appendix “J” for the approval of the Committee, to take effect from the dates indicated.  The services of the employees recommended have been satisfactory.

 

Appendix “J”

Regradings

 

District No. 2.

Name & Age:                     Price, T. (21)

Where Employed:              Kings Heath Pk.

Grading & wages:

     Present:                        Garden Boy ‘A’              £6. 3. 8.

     Recommended:            Gdn. 2^nd Cl.                   £6. 13. 0.

Date Commenced:            17.7.51

To date from:                     25.10.53

 

 

Staff Appointments

 

14466   Resolved:-   That the various appointments made to fill existing vacancies in the manual staff, as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

 

 

Staff – Regradings

 

14470   Resolved:-   That the staff regradings, as set out in Appendix “J” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed, such regradings to take effect from the dates stated therein.

 

 

Councillor Broughton submitted the following report of the Recreation and Entertainments Sub-Committee:-

 

Entertainments in the Parks 1954 Season

(Relevant extracts from a very long report.)

It will be remembered that your Committee proposed to examine the question whether some consideration should be given to the possible revision of the policy as regards the provision of entertainments in the parks from the point of view of the type best suited to the requirements of the Committee – their quality, the number of performances to be provided and the venues to be selected.  It was felt that there might be justification for believing that better use could be made of the financial resources for entertainments by their concentration at fewer parks, thus providing the opportunity for the engagement of better class entertainers able to command high fees, without increasing the overall financial commitments of the Committee on the  Entertainments Account, and I was instructed to prepare a report for your consideration with a view to recommendations being submitted to the Parks Committee.

The major part of the entertainments programme is given in Summer Theatres and the average attendances for the last six years were as follows:-

 

(From a list of 9 parks:-)

                                         1953     1952     1951     1950     1949     1948

Kings Heath                       184       199       235       235       251       221

 

........................

In the last few seasons the available financial resources have made it possible to stage approximately 40 weeks of Summer Theatre entertainments each year in seven or eight parks.  In order to engage better class entertainers able to command higher fees it would be necessary to reduce the amount of entertainment provided.  This might be done in one of two ways:-

 

(a)   By shortening the season to not more than four or five weeks at seven or eight parks.

(b)   By giving longer seasons at a small number of the parks which have been the best attended in recent years.

 

With regard to suggestion (a) it is felt that as the  average attendance at Rookery Park was so much lower than at other parks last year, this park should not be included in the 1954 programme.  The following suggested programme is submitted for the Committee’s consideration:-

 

(From a list of 8 parks:-)

                                         No. of weeks 1954        No. of weeks 1953

Kings Heath                                   4                                  4

 

Total                                              31                                 40        

 

Your Committee may wish to consider trying a new park in place of Kings Heath or Ward End where interest has waned a little in recent years.

.................

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

 

There is a preface to this foregoing report:-

 

Your Sub-Committee have asked the General Manager for a further report with a view to the formulation of a policy in respect of Entertainments in the Parks for the 1954 Season and hope to submit definite recommendations with regard to this matter at the January meeting.