Richmond Park Update

[Ross1599968583]

 

A further meeting took place on Friday 30th April between the Park Management and a small representative group of local flyers.

 

The information below is a summary of the meeting.

 

 

We started the meeting with a quick review of points raised in the previous meeting whereupon the Park Authorities re-iterated that their obligation was to enhance the ecology of the park and not merely preserve it.

 

 

Having consulted English Heritage and the Richmond Horse Riding Community both organisations commented that the proposals including the Risk Assessment and, in particular the introduction of Flying Zones, were a positive step forward.

 

 

There then followed a discussion regarding Safety, a key concern for the Park Authorities. The Park proposed a form of licensing be introduced. This would be comparable to the fishing permit scheme that already operating in the royal parks at a nominal annual fee.

 

 

In order to be granted an annual permit, proof of third party insurance would need to be given to the appropriate Park Authorities along with a nominal fee before you can begin Power Kiting.

 

 

It was felt this would help enforce the code of conduct (as proposed at the previous meeting) and promote a greater sense of responsibility. Any flyers would have to adhere to the code of conduct as part of being granted a permit to fly.

 

 

We then presented a map of potential flying zones and an amended code of conduct that might serve as the basis for future signage for display in the Park. This was very well received with both sides agreeing that the proposed map could also offer the basic framework for not only Park signage but a possible free leaflet as well.

 

 

Both sides agreed that whilst a consensus had now been reached regarding the future of kite flying in the Park, there still remains some work to be done on the details and implementation of the discussed proposals. To this end it was agreed that the Parks Authorities and Local Flyers issue a joint statement next week (to be featured in place of the current flying bans) which would inform flyers as yet unaware to the good progress being made along with other relevant information.

 

 

We have been invited for a third, and hopefully final meeting in the middle of May. In the intervening period both sides have agreed to work together via email so as to finalise the details and ensure a speedy yet comprehensive implementation of what has been discussed.

 

 

Finally, a big thanks for all the support we have received and for all the work that has been put in by everyone to get us up to this final stage. As we’ve said the Park Authorities have been excellent in dealing with us on this matter and we would ask that the current ban is adhered to whilst a compromise is finalised……….

 

[spooky]

Hi, well done.

I like the code of conduct idea as it allows visiting kiters to turn up and fly (subject to insurance/permits etc) and avoids the issue of new kiters thinking that the Parks must be a good place to learn (as everyone else goes there) from turning up only to be told they can not, which will lead to problems etc? Espcially as this is a All Kites ban rather than just traction (am I right?).

 

Out of interest any idea on the fee and how easy will it be to obtain a permit? ie As a major park I take it rangers are on hand all/most of the time, so will you/they be able to "Stop me and Buy one"?

 

Also another good thing is the speed at which it is happening, it's one thing to tell people no kiting as we are trying to get permission/ban lifted, but when it's 4/5/6 or 10 months!! later it makes it very hard to control, so people start flying again and possibley jepodising the work/results.

Could be worth other groups/sites taking note as if a sencible time frame can be agreed for a result one way or the other it makes it easier to get people to comply with bans/restrictions, if they know they will either get a dessicion in 2/3 months etc?

 

Well done, Jon

[adamski]

FANTASTIC work there you Southern dudes!

 

 

THIS gives us a great framework for OTHER authorities and sets a precident of bans being overturned through sensible and easily complied with regulation....

 

Again congratulations on the return of your flying site (pending final bits and bobs)

[Natz]

Liking the ideas here!!

 

In the same way that a fishing licence fee helps pay towards the maintenance of the fish stock and river, a flying licence would ensure that the area is well maintained and the grass is kept short... perfect!

 

Well done - and best of luck for the meeting!!

 

Luv Natz xxx

[Ross1599968583]

 

 

for those who missed it.....

 

....bump

[Tone]

fan-blo0dy-tastic!!

 

well done guys! that is a great step from being banned a few months ago to being back on the cards!

 

well done

[RedShift1599968581]

Fantastic news guys well done all.... We'd love to see something about these positive steps in the next issue of PK. So drop me a PM.

[mike c]

Nice work! Fingers crossed that everything stays on track and your hard work pays off.

 

Mike