The History of Selly Oak Park, 1951-1960: 1954 Clippings

Ongoing research; last updated 14 January 2015

4^th January 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Staff
Temporary Manual Employees – Appointment to the Permanent Staff
It is recommended that the temporary manual employees given in Appendix “K” be appointed to the Permanent Staff of the Department with effect from the 4^th January 1954. The approval of the Committee for such action is desired.

Appendix “K”

Temporary Manual Employees – Appointment to the Permanent Staff

District No. 1.

J.B. Herickx (18) Gdn. Boy “A” Selly Oak Pk

Temporary Manual Employees – Appointment to the Permanent Staff

14590 Resolved:- That the temporary manual employees as set out in Appendix “K” to the foregoing report be appointed to the permanent staff of the Parks Department with effect from the 1^st January 1954.

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee:-

Various Sites – New Playground Equipment
In connection with the supply of new playground equipment for which provision is made in current Estimates, the following schedule indicates those sites at which new apparatus is approved, together with alternative quotations for the individual items of equipment:-

Name of Site Type of Quotations

Equipment C. Wicksteed J.J. Greig Total of items

(From a list of 7 parks:-)

Selly Oak Pk. Joy Wheel £96-16-0 £82-10-0 *

1 See-Saw £44-15-0 £28-12-0 * £111- 2-0

Total (all parks) £1,134- 5-0 £1,046- 2-0 £983-17-0

Based upon the lowest individual quotations, the total amount of £983-17-0. is divided between the two firms as follows:-

(a) Chas. Wicksteed & Co. (1920) Ltd,

Stamford Rd. Works, Kettering. £374-9-0.

(b) J. & J. Greig Ltd.,

Viaduct Works, Heaton Lane, Stockport. £609- 8-0

£983-17-0

The sum of £985 is set aside in your current revenue estimates in respect of playground equipment, and the Committee’s authority to place official orders with the above-named firms is now desired.

Various Sites – New Playground Equipment

14604 Resolved:- That the quotation of J. & J. Greig Limited for the supply of playground equipment comprising the items as marked with an asterisk in the foregoing report in the total sum of £609. 8. 0d. be accepted, and that the Town Clerk be instructed to prepare and seal the necessary contract.

1^st February 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

The Chairman submitted the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

Police Report – Serious Accidents

During the month of December there were 20 serious accidents dealt with in the parks and the patients sent to hospital. There were also 98 minor injuries treated, and the patients sent home. Details of serious accidents are given in Appendix “L”.

Appendix “L”

Police Report – Serious Accidents

Date: 2.12.53

Park: Selly Oak Pk.

Name & Age: Michael Cain (11)

Nature of Injury: Fractured left forearm

Cause of Injury: Playing School Football

Included in this Minute is a report concerning:-

Rate Estimates 1954/55

(From a very long, and detailed report:-)

The report shows that the following allocations were included in he budget preparation for Selly Oak Park:-

Maintenance of Drives and Pathways:-

Tarpaving work – Path to “Daughters of Rest” Pavilion & Playgd. - £500

Fencing:-

Set of 3 oak gates, main entrance - £50 – No gates at present and park is fenced.

350 yds. Sawn oak fence to canal - £450 – To safeguard children using park.

Playground Equipment

1 Joy Wheel - £71

1 Ocean Wave - £77

1 Merry-Go-Round - £77

To supplement Swings, Whirling Platform and Parallel Bars, which are insufficient to meet needs of children.

Pit Lights and Cold Frames to increase scope of existing propagation

10 Pit Lights and Frames with heating - £50

Tennis Courts

2 Hard Tennis Courts - £900 - Included in first priority list approved by Parks Committee.

1^st March 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Selly Oak Park - Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

During the War the gates to Selly Oak Park were left open so that the general public could gain access to the A.R.P. shelters which were constructed in the park. At the conclusion of the War the gates were again closed at night time, but in October 1945, at the request of Councillor Dr. Haslam, arrangements were made for the gates at Corisande Road, Harborne Lane and Gibbins Road to be kept open for the convenience of young people living on the Weoley Castle Estate who were associated with various youth activities in Selly Oak. The gates remained open until 1948 when they were closed for a few days but they were reopened at the request of the local residents who were supported by Alderman Bradbeer and Councillor Mrs. Hammond.

The gates have continued to be left open at night time and the path is used extensively all day and until late at night by persons living in the Corisande Road area who wish to get to and from Selly Oak. The alternative route around the park is a much longer one. A certain amount of vandalism takes place in the park after the official closing time, although the path is patrolled by the City Police after the hours of darkness.

In view of the length of time that the park has remained open and that this path has been in use, your Committee may wish to safeguard your interests in preventing a right of way being established either by closing the gates in question at the normal time of closing of the parks or at least by closing the path on one day a year (i.e. Christmas Day).

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

There is a preface to this item:-

In this connection your Sub-Committee are informed that measurements show that the distance between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road along the highway is approximately 1,000 yards more than by the footpath through Selly Oak Park.

Your Sub-Committee have examined at considerable length the question of whether they should recommend that the footpath through the park should be allowed to remain open after the normal closing of the park as has been the case almost continuously since 1945. Your Committee appreciate the use of this pathway outside the normal hours of opening of the park has been of great convenience to the local residents, particularly to the employees of the Selly Oak ‘Bus Depot, railwaymen, and other work people going on and off duty early and late in the day. They feel, however, that a matter of principle is involved as residents in other districts could equally claim that short cuts should be available to them through the parks. An example of this is at Handsworth Park where the distance along the paths between Hamstead Road and Grove Lane is considerably shorter than along the highways.

Your Sub-Committee now recommend that the gates at Selly Oak Park be closed at the normal time of closing for the park with effect from 1^st June, 1954.

Employees – Departmental Accommodation

In 1947-48 your Committee decided to safeguard their interest in properties owned or controlled by them, by arranging that future tenant employees should enter into an agreement with the Corporation evidencing the fact that the accommodation was granted to them in consequence of their employment with the Department.

Whilst your Committee have, in most instances, authorised the Town Clerk to prepare the necessary agreements, I find that there are certain exceptions, these mainly of employees transferred on promotion from one park to another with consequent change of accommodation, and a schedule (“B”) of the employees concerned is attached. These employees have recently been informed that they will be required to enter into an agreement with the Corporation, and I shall be glad if your Committee will instruct the Town Clerk to prepare the necessary documents accordingly.

I would mention that service tenancy agreements contain a clause reserving the Corporation’s right to revise the terms of letting at any time and the licences to occupy show only the employee’s basic wage or salary, no reference being made to value of emoluments.

Schedule “B”

Schedule of Properties Occupied by Employees since the 1^st January 1948, for which no Agreements have been prepared.

Properties occupied as part of emoluments

(Licences to Occupy)

Name: Hughes, J.E.

Property: Lodge, Gibbins Rd., Selly Oak Park

Date occupied: 7.7.50

Wage or Salary of

Employee as at 1^st February 1954: £495 p.a.

Selly Oak Park - Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

Councillors Mrs. Hammond and Gurden suggested that it would be in the interests of the district for the footpath at Selly Oak Park to remain open after the normal closing hours as had been the case for several years past. They, therefore, proposed that the footpath should be closed on Christmas Day in each year in order to establish the fact that the path was not a public right of way. After discussion, it was:-

14871 Resolved:- (Councillor Mrs. Hammond and Councillor Gurden dissenting) That the gates at Selly Oak Park be closed at the normal time of closing for the park, with effect from 1^st June, 1954.

Employees – Departmental Accommodation

14892 Resolved:- That, having regard to the circumstances set out in the foregoing report, the Town Clerk be authorised to prepare and seal the necessary agreements with the various employees referred to in Schedule “B” to the report in respect of the departmental accommodation occupied by them.

The Chairman submitted the following report of the Special Estimates Sub-Committee:-

Rate Estimates 1954/55 - Reduction of £50,000

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

Selly Oak Park –

Maintenance of Drives and Pathways:-

Tarpaving work – Path to “Daughters of Rest” Pavilion & Playgd. - £500

Fencing:-

Set of 3 oak gates, main entrance - £50 – No gates at present and park is fenced.

350 yds. Sawn oak fence to canal - £450 – To safeguard children using park.

Playground Equipment

1 Joy Wheel - £71

1 Ocean Wave - £77

1 Merry-Go-Round - £77

Tennis Courts

2 Hard Tennis Courts - £900 - Included in first priority list approved by Parks Committee.

Reduction in Rate Estimates, 1954/55

14956 Resolved:- That the action taken to achieve a reduction in the Committee’s estimates for 1954/55 of £50,000 in accordance with the requirements of the Finance Committee, as more particularly detailed in the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

1^st March 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

On 1^st March 1954 the Parks Committee decided that with effect from 1^st June, 1954 the gates at Selly Oak Park should be closed at the normal time of closing for the Park. Note. During the war the gates were left open at night time so that the general public could gain access to the ARP shelters in the Park; and after the war at the request of Councillor Dr. Haslam the gates at Corisande Road, Harborne Lane and Gibbins Road, had been left open for the convenience of local residents. While the gates remained open at night a certain amount of vandalism took place. (For full details refer to the report attached to Min. No. 14871 of 1/3/1954). Details on Misc Card 99/D1 “Permanent Opening of Parks”.

5^th April 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Staff

Resignations

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

Appendix “F”

Resignations

District No. 1.

Name & Age: Herickx, J.B. (18)

Designation: Gdn. Boy ‘A’

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date ceased: 8.2.54

Length of Service: 3 yrs. 1 mth.

Police Report – Serious Accidents

Since the last meeting of your Sub-Committee there have been 11 serious accidents dealt with in the parks and the patients sent to hospital. There were also 137 minor injuries treated and the patients sent home. Details of serious accidents are given in Appendix “L”.

Appendix “L”

Police Report – Serious Accidents

Date: 15.2.54

Park: Selly Oak Pk.

Name & Age: Arthur Betton (54)

Nature of Injury: Laceration, both hands

Cause of Injury: Bitten by his own dog

Festival of Entertainments – Combined Display by Fire Service and Police

As reported to the last meeting of the main Committee, the Fire Service and City Police propose to stage a combined display as their contribution to the Birmingham Festival of Entertainments in June, which is suggested should take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the 14^th, 16^th and 18^th June at Perry Park, Selly Oak Park and Ward End Park.

The Police display will consist of a Musical Ride similar to that given at last year’s City of Birmingham Show at Handsworth Park and will follow a demonstration by the Fire Service of Fire Drill, etc. The final details of the Fire Service Display have not yet been decided, but it is understood that in each case the following equipment will probably be used:-

2 turntable ladders each of which weigh approximately 10 tons; 2 pumps, 1 pump escape, and a drill tower of tubular scaffolding which will be erected and dismantled at each site, together with a tank for water to be used.

Part of the Fire Drill display will consist of directing various jets on to specific targets.

The approximate area which will be required at each site will be about 150 yards x 50 yards and is shown coloured pink on the plans which will be available at your meeting. Each site has been carefully inspected with the Fire Service and Police by members of your technical staff and with the various requirements and circumstances in mind, these areas have been selected, subject to your approval, as the most suitable. In each case the actual area is easily accessible for all concerned and the roads which will be used and which are coloured brown on the plan, will withstand the heaviest of the equipment to be used without any fear of damage to the surfaces. Further, no grass area will be affected.

At Selly Oak Park, as will be observed from the plan, the access road passes over the Dudley Canal by means of a brick arch bridge which, according to the notice which was affixed thereto by the Birmingham Canal Navigations, was built to take loads of “normal” road traffic. It is understood from the Police that the weight of ten tons of the turntable ladder would come under this category but confirmation will, however, be first obtained from the Docks and Inland Waterways Executive, who are now responsible for the maintenance of the bridge.

Under normal weather conditions for June, the District Superintendents are of the opinion that very little or no damage will be caused to the turfed areas concerned by the weight of the traffic involved.

The actual areas affected will be enclosed with stakes and ropes which, it is suggested, might be provided by the Public Works Department, as it is doubtful if the Parks Department, having regard to their other commitments in respect of entertainments for the Festival, will have sufficient equipment available at this time.

It is assumed it will be your wish for any permission for the displays to be staged as referred to above, to be subject to the proviso that the General Purposes Committee be asked to assume responsibility for any expenditure incurred by your Department relative to the provision of enclosures, etc., and for the cost of any restoration that might be necessary.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

Festival of Entertainments – Combined Display by Fire Service and Police

15017 Resolved:- That the General Purposes Committee be informed that this Committee are prepared to allow the combined displays by the Fire Service and Police on 14^th, 16^th and 18^th June, 1954, at Perry Park, Selly Oak Park and Ward End Park in connection with the Festival of Entertainments, as referred to in the foregoing report, subject in the case of Selly Oak Park to it being ascertained that the access road over the Dudley Canal is able to bear the weight of the vehicles involved, and also to the General Purposes Committee bearing the cost of any necessary reinstatement of sites and for the reimbursement of this Committee for any expenses involved in connection with the preparation of the arenas, etc., for which this Committee are prepared to act on an agency basis, it being understood that all departmental equipment will be in use for band and firework displays at other parks, and that equipment may, therefore, have to be hired from contractors or obtained from other Departments on loan.

26th April 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Canal Bridge at Harborne Lane entrance

In April 1954 the City Surveyor was consulted regarding the load bearing qualities of this bridge and in a reply dated 26^th April 1954 he stated that the bridge was probably built at the time the canal was constructed but in his opinion was suitable for normal light traffic loads and occasional heavier loads. (Refer letter dated 26/4/1954 for full details.)

3^rd May 1954 – 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 “F” have been recived.

Appendix “E”

Appointments

Name & Age: Fryer, A.G. (21)

Designation: Gdn. Boy ‘B’

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date Commenced: 22.2.54

Wages: £5.13.5.

Resignations

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

Appendix “F”

Resignations

District No. 1.

Name & Age: Hastings, E.G. (20)

Designation: Gdn. Lab.

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date ceased: 12.3.54

Length of Service: 9 mths.

Staff – Appointments

15181 Resolved:- That the various appointments made to fill the 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:-

Various Sites – Proposed Capital Scheme for Tennis Courts

At the last meeting of the General Committee, I was instructed by Minute No. 15,041 to consider the possibility of preparing a scheme of Capital expenditure for the conversion of existing grass tennis courts to those of the “All-Weather” type, and to report thereon to your Sub-Committee.

The following schedule of hard tennis courts has accordingly been compiled from the annual list of requirements submitted by the various Officers-in-Charge in December last, and which includes sites at which both conversions and new constructions are needed, and which, for economic reasons, had to be deleted from the current year’s Revenue Estimates:-

There then follows a list of 26 sites, involving 67 courts, and an estimated total cost of £30,800, which includes:-

# Selly Oak Park 2 Courts Estimated cost, £1,000

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

The sites marked # thus are considered to warrant priority, and in view of the rather high total estimated cost, viz. - £30,800, your Committee may consider seeking Ministry consent to a loan in respect of the items so marked which produce an estimated total expenditure of £13,100.

The Committee’s further instructions are desired.

Various Sites – Proposed Capital Scheme for Tennis Courts

15256 Resolved:- That the City Council be informed of the circumstances relating to hard tennis courts at various sites, and that the authority of the Council be sought for the application to be made to the Minister of Housing and Local Government for consent to a Loan in respect of such courts at the sites marked with an asterisk in the foregoing Report, involving a total estimated expenditure of £13,100.

31^st May 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

(This Minute contains a report, and subsequent decision, permitting the 1954 Selly Oak Carnival to be held at Muntz Park – where alcoholic refreshments could be available – Selly Oak Park, the hitherto customary venue, having the “no alcohol” condition imposed by its donors back in 1899 and subsequently.)

Memorial – City Council, 25^th May, 1954

Closing of gates, Selly Oak Park

The following memorial presented to the City Council on 25^th May, 1954, was submitted:-

To The Chairman,

The Parks Committee

Sir,

We the ratepayers of Selly Oak, dwelling in the roads converging on the Selly Oak Park gate in Corisande Road wish to protest against the order “that the Council’s rules and regulations in regard to the opening and closing times of Selly Oak Park (so long on abeyance) are to become operative from June 1^st,” as notified on public notice boards in the Park.

To the people of this district the paths through the park constitute main thoroughfares being the most direct routes to Harborne Lane (Nos. 2B and 11 buses) and High Street (Nos. 61, 62 and 63 buses). The alternative is a time wasting and circuitous walk or part walk and part bus ride, thus increasing daily expenses.

The immediate effect of this will be to depreciate house values here. An outcome of this may be the application for rate assessment reductions.

(Here follow 609 signatures)

15284 Resolved:- That the foregoing memorial be referred to the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee for consideration and report.

Resolution of the General Purposes (Entertainments Sub-) Committee – Displays by City Police and Fire Brigade, 14^th, 16^th & 18^th June,1954

The following resolution of the General Purposes (Entertainments Sub-) Committee was submitted:-

Displays by City Police and Fire Brigade - 14^th, 16^th & 18^th June,1954

RESOLVED:- That the action taken in engaging bands as set out below for the combined displays to be given by the mounted branch of the City Police and by the Fire and Ambulance Service at the parks indicated be approved and confirmed:-

14^th June – Selly Oak Park – Shirley Silver Band - £21

16^th June – Perry Park – Shirley Silver Band - £21

18^th June – Ward End Park – Fisher and Ludlow Works Band - £26 5s.;

that expenditure on the erection of a tower at each of the three parks for the Fire Brigade’s demonstrations and the provision of public address equipment, necessary roping off of the enclosure, seating, etc., at an estimated cost of £100, be approved; further, that the Parks Committee be informed that in the vent of extensive damage being done to the turf, etc., as a result of the displays, the reasonable cost of any necessary restoration will be reimbursed by the General Purposes Committee.

15290 Resolved:- That the foregoing resolution be received and entered on the Minutes.

The following report of the Deputy General Manager was submitted:-

Mobile Canteens – Tenders

In accordance with your Committee’s authorisation, an advertisement was recently placed in the local Press inviting tenders for the privilege of operating with a mobile canteen the following parks and recreation grounds at which there are at present no refreshment facilities and where it is considered desirable that refreshments should be provided:-

Selly Oak Park is mentioned in a list of 13 sites

In response to this advertisement, tenders have been received from the undermentioned persons:-

There is then a list of 6 tenders, but not one of them is for Selly Oak Park.

In all the cases above where the caterer has not previously operated on your Committee’s sites, the Public Health Department has been requested to carry out inspections of the vehicles involved, and as the reports thereon have all been favourable, it is recommended that the tenders be accepted.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

Mobile Canteens – Tenders

15325 Resolved:- That the offers in respect of mobile canteens at various sites as more particularly set out in the foregoing report be accepted in accordance with the recommendations of the General Manager and on the terms states (sic), subject to favourable reports being received from the Public Health Department on the condition of the canteens concerned in those cases where the caterers have not operated at sites under this Committee’s control.

Civil Defence, Welfare Section – Emergency Accommodation in Case of Enemy Attack

15331 Resolved:- That ..................... (not relevant to Selly Oak Park)

In this connection Councillor Haynes referred to the building in Selly Oak Park which had formerly been used for Civil Defence purposes and which was rapidly becoming in a derelict condition. He said that he was aware that the local Boy Scouts wished to use this building. Councillor Mrs. Hammond said that this building seemed to be entirely separate from the Park as it was contained in its own fence.

15332 Resolved:- That the General Manager be instructed to investigate and report on the foregoing matter.

3^rd June 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Daughters of Rest – Apportionment of cost of water consumption

In view of the fact that the Parks Department have a hose pipe connection to the Daughters of Rest water supply it was agreed that the water charges should be apportioned as follows:

Daughters of Rest to pay £1 5s. 0d. of the minimum charge of £1 10s. 0d per quarter (payable in arrears)

Parks Department to pay the balance of 5/- per quarter plus any sum above the minimum scale charge

(Refer letter dated 2/2/1954 and reply dated 3/6/54.)

1^st May 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Selly Oak Carnival

Parks Committee Min. No. 10088 of 1/5/1950 granted permission for the Selly Oak Carnival Committee to use Selly Oak Park during the week commencing 4^th June 1950 for various events in connection with their Carnival Week. The Carnival was held at Selly Oak Park each year during the period 1950-1953 inclusive, but in 1954 the venue was changed to Muntz Park. (For details of conditions governing use of Selly Oak Park for the Carnivals refer report attached to Min. No. 10088)

5^th July 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Selly Oak Carnival

It will be remembered that by Minute No. 15,282 of the Parks Committee, permission was granted for the Selly Oak Carnival Committee to hold their Annual Carnival in Muntz Park on Saturday, 19^th June, subject to their submitting their Balance Sheet for the 1953 Carnival within fourteen days. The Balance Sheet was submitted within the prescribed time, and a copy is attached to this report.

With regard to the 1952 Carnival accounts, the Selly Oak Carnival Committee were allowed to keep the whole of the balance in hand as at 10^th December, 1952, i.e. £385-4-4., but the Carnival Committee were asked to submit details of how their funds were finally allocated in the form of charitable donations. Despite many requests, these details were not received, but it can be seen from the 1953 Balance Sheet that certain charitable donations have been made since 10^th December, 1952, and these are included in the 1953 accounts.

It may be the Committee’s wish that the Selly Oak Carnival Committee be asked to submit details of the proposed allocation of the balance outstanding at the 12^th March, 1954 and the proceeds from this year’s carnival.

The Committee’s instructions are requested.

Selly Oak Footpath – between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

Parks Committee Minute No. 15,284 referred to the Sub-Committee a memorial from residents in Selly Oak protesting against the closing of the gates at the Corisande Road and Gibbins Road entrance to Selly Oak Park.

I set out below for the information of the Sub-Committee a resume of the events relative to the closing of the gates on the 1^st June, 1954:-

(1) At a meeting of the City Council on 18^th October, 1938, Councillor Dobbs presented a memorial from residents on the Weoley Park Estate, asking for a revision of the hours of opening of Selly Oak Park and the provision of a permanent right of way through the park from Harborne Lane to Corisande Road. City Council Minute No. 34,130 referred the matter to the Parks and Public Works Committees.

The Parks Committee by Minute No. 3078 of 2^nd January, 1939, decided to take no action.

On the !0^th January, 1939, the Public Works Committee reported to the City Council that they intended to construct a footbridge across the canal to connect Corisande Road at its western end with Mateley Grove. The City Council were informed that this would obviate the necessity of either an amendment of the opening hours of the park or the provision of a permanent right of way through the park.

(2) The park gates were left open during the War, so that the general public could gain access to the A.R.P. Shelters, which were constructed in the park. At the conclusion of the War in 1945, the gates were again closed at night-times for a short period.

(3) In October, 1945, in response to local requests, particularly the needs of young people attending various youth activities in Selly Oak, authority was given for the gates at Corisande Road entrance and also Harborne Road entrance to be left open at night-times until further notice.

(4) In February last, it (was) reported to the Sub-Committee that the path had been kept open for a considerable length of time, and it was asked whether the Committee wished to safeguard their interests in preventing a right of way being established, either by closing the gates in question at the normal time of closing of the park, or at least by closing the path on one day a year (i.e. Christmnas day).

(5) By Minute No. 14,871 of the 1^st March, the Committee decided that commencing on 1^st June, the gates to Selly Oak Park were to be closed at the normal closing time.

(6) From time to time during the period that the gates have been open all night, cases of vandalism and other forms of misconduct have necessitated the arranging of special night patrols by the Parks Police. As a result of this action the offences ceased, but after a time the gradual increase in the number of cases of infringement of regulations made it necessary to arrange special night patrol duties once more.

The Committee’s instructions are requested.

Staff

Appointments

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

Appendix “E”

Appointments

District No. 1.

Name & Age: Knight, J (40)

Designation: Gdn. Lab

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date Commenced: 12.4.54

Wages: £6.6.0.

Resignations

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

Appendix “F”

Resignations

District No. 1.

Name & Age: Fryer, A.G. (20)

Designation: Gdn. Boy “B”

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date ceased: 2.4.54

Length of Service: 1 mth.

Name & Age: Finch, B. (18)

Designation: Gdn. Boy “A”

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Date ceased: 21.4.54

Length of Service: 2 yrs. 6 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. 1.

Name & Age: Knight, J. (41)

Where employed: Selly Oak Pk.

Grading & Wages:

Present: Gdn. Lab. £6.6.0.

Recommended: Gdnr. 2^nd Cl. £6.13.0.

Date Commenced: 12.4.53

To date from: 17.5.54

Selly Oak Carnival

15377 Resolved:- That the Balance Sheet of the Selly Oak Carnival Committee for the period from 4^th December, 1952 to 12^th March, 1954, as submitted, in the foregoing report of the General Manager, be approved, but that the Carnival Committee be asked to submit details of the proposed allocation of the amount of £456. 19. 8d. outstanding, as at 12^th March, 1954, and the proceeds from this year’s Carnival.

Selly Oak Footpath – between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

15388 Resolved:- That having regard to all the circumstances the decision of this Committee as contained in Minute No. 14871 to close the footpath at Selly Oak Park between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road with effect from 1^st June, 1954 be adhered to, and that the City Council be informed accordingly.

Staff – Appointments

15393 Resolved:- That the various appointments made to fill the existing vacancies on the Manual Staff, as detailed in Appendix “E” to the foregoing report, be approved and confirmed.

Staff – Regradings

15397 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.

26^th July 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Selly Oak Park – Proposed Replacement of Birch Trees

In 1935, six silver birch trees were planted in the area adjacent to the shelter in Selly Oak Park by the Selly Oak Girl Guides Association in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of King George V.

My Head Forester and District Superintendent have recently examined these trees, and are of the opinion that five of the trees which have become top-heavy and badly shaped should be removed during the coming winter and replaced by young trees of a similar species. If it is decided to replace these trees, it is considered that the young replacements should be protected with wire guards against damage which has been caused to the exiting tees by children breaking off the lower branches. The Commemorative Plaque which is at present placed in position near one of the trees could be later relocated to near the base of the one original Jubilee tree remaining so that it could be readily identified.

However, in view of the fact that the trees concerned were originally planted by the Girl Guides Association, your Committee may consider it desirable to obtain the observations of the Association and also of the Councillor of the Ward.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

Selly Oak Park – Proposed Replacement of Birch Trees

15501 Resolved:- That authority be given for the removal and replacement of the 5 silver birch trees at Selly Oak Park, as referred to in the foregoing report, subject to no objection being raised thereto by

26^th July 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Proposed Replacement of Birch Trees

On 26^th July 1954 the Parks Committee were informed that five of the six silver birch trees, planted in 1935 (by Selly Oak Girl Guide Association) to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Kings George V, had become top heavy and required replacing. Min. No, 15501 of 26/7/1954 authorised the replacement of the trees subject to no objection being raised by the Girl Guides Association or the three Councillors for the Ward concerned. It was arranged that the commemoration plaque should be moved to the base of the one remaining original tree.

4^th October 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

Draft Report to Council – 9^th November 1954

The following draft of a proposed report for submission to the City Council on 9^th November, 1954, was submitted:-

Draft Report to Council – 2^nd November, 1954

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

Memorials

Selly Oak Park - Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

On 25thMay, 1954, a memorial was submitted to the City Council protesting against the closing during the normal hours of closing of Selly Oak Park of the pathway in that park leading from Corisande Road to Gibbins Road.

The facts concerning this pathway are that during World War II the gates were left open so that the general public could gain access to the air raid shelters which were constructed therein. At the conclusion of the War the gates were again closed at night-times, but as a result of local representations arrangements were made for the gates at Corisande Road, Harborne Lane and Gibbins Road to be kept open for the convenience of the people living on the Weoley Castle Estate who were associated with various youth activities in Selly Oak.

The gates continued to be left open at night until, on the instructions of your Committee, they were closed at the normal hours for the closing of the park with effect from 1^st June last.

Although the park had been used extensively until late at night by people living in the Corisande Road area wishing to get to and from Selly Oak, your Committee felt that on the grounds of uniformity with all other parks in the city, the gates of Selly Oak Park should be closed at night time. Further, they had in mind that during the period that the gates had been open all night, cases of vandalism and other forms of misconduct necessitated the organising of night patrols by the Parks Police. As a result of this action the offences ceased for a time, but subsequently a gradual increase in the number of cases of infringement of regulations made it necessary to arrange for these special night patrols to be resumed.

On the general question of the opening of parks at night, the Chief Constable, after consultation with the Watch Committee, states that from a police point of view, it is preferable for the parks to remain closed during the hours of darkness. The task of the police is rendered much easier by a technical closing of the parks, in that any persons found there during the night can legitimately be asked to account for their presence, as they have at least contravened the parks bye-laws. These open spaces have a tendency to attract criminals, sleepers-out and persons of ill-repute, even under existing conditions. Regular Police supervision is given at night to the parks, but even then it is not possible to prevent frequent breaking in offences at premises in the parks themselves. There are also many cases when access to and from property has been gained through the parks. Indeed, a number of criminals have been caught with stolen property in their possession, solely on account of their being found in a park. The opening of parks etc., at night time would provide greater opportunity under cover of darkness for indecency and indecent assaults, types of offences which are at present very prevalent.

In all the circumstances, your Committee see no reason to depart from their decision that the pathway referred to in the memorial shall be closed daily at the normal hours of closing for Selly Oak Park.

15690 Resolved:- That the foregoing draft Report be approved for submission to the City Council on the 9^th November, 1954, and that the Chairman be authorised to make such additions and alterations thereon, as he may consider necessary and desirable.

1^st November 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

In the absence of Councillor Horton at the commencement of the meeting, the (sic) the Chairman presented the following report of the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee:-

Opening of Parks at Night Time

Selly Oak Park - Footpath

In accordance with the Chairman’s directions, I set out hereunder for the information of the Sub-Committee prior to the report to Council, a summary indicating in the case of Selly Oak Park the costs involved in (a) fencing and lighting the footpath (indicated between points “A” and “B” on the plan which will be available at your meeting) and (b) patrolling and lighting the entire park in the event of it remaining open all night:-

Selly Oak Park

i) Fencing to both sides of footpath with

sawn Oak open pale fencing 5’6” high

1,060 lin. Yds. ... @ 25/- £1,325

Lighting of footpath with standard

electric street lamps 930

£2,255

ii) Annual cost of one Police Patrol

(a) From official closing time

until12 o’clock mid-night 284

(b) From 12 0’clock mid-night until

7 a.m. 415

Lighting over whole area of park with

mercury discharge lamps (29 lamps) £5,530

£6,229

The lighting costs have been supplied by the Public Lighting Department, in conjunction with the Midlands Electricity Board, and are stated to be approximate only.
In regard to the general question of costs of opening the parks at night-time, in all cases the costs of lighting and patrolling are likely to be proportionate.

Opening of Parks at Night Time

Selly Oak Park - Footpath

15726 Resolved:- That the report of the General Manager concerning the probable cost involved in opening parks at night time, as now submitted, be approved.

1^st November 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

Councillor Richardson presented a memorial to the City Council of 25^th May 1954 protesting against the proposal to close Selly Oak Park at night time on the grounds that the public would be debarred from using the short cut provided by the paths running through it. The memorial was referred to the Parks Committee.

On 1^st November 1954 a report was submitted to the Parks Committee setting out the probable cost involved in opening the Park at night time. The two suggested methods of dealing with the problem were:- a) Fencing both sides of the footpath and provision of street lamps, £2,255; b) Lighting the whole area of Park £5,530 plus annual cost of £699 for Police Patrol.

9^th November 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

On 9^th November 1954 the Parks Committee informed the City Council that they saw no reason to depart from their decision to close the footpath, but by Resolution No. 43,465 the City Council (by a majority of 99 to 29) referred the matter back for further consideration.

6^th December 1954 – BCC Parks Committee Minute

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

Valuation of Emoluments

(Extracts with specific reference to the park, taken from a very long and involved report)

Schedule of Accommodation Occupied by Employees

List “B” – Manual Employees Receiving Emoluments

Property & Employee: Lodge, Gibbins Rd. Selly Oak Pk.

J.E. Hughes

Date Occupied: 7.7.50

Existing Emoluments: £50. 0s. 0d. p.a.

City Estates Officer’s

proposed Rent (inc. Rates & Water Rates): £78. 0s. 0d. p.a.

Cost of Heating and Lighting for 1953

to nearest 10/-

Electricity: # £9. 0s. 0d.

Gas: # £10. 0s. 0d.

Coal: £12. 10s. 0d.

Total cost of the heating and lighting

plus proposed rent: £109. 10s. 0d.

# Denotes that the accommodation has no separate metered supply and therefore consumption has been estimated having regard to the points and fittings supplied through the combined meter in each case.

Property & Employee: Lodge, Harborne Lane, Selly Oak.

C. Selibas

Date Occupied: 17.6.40

Existing Emoluments: Rent free

City Estates Officer’s

proposed Rent (inc. Rates & Water Rates): £39. 0s. 0d. p.a.

Cost of Heating and Lighting for 1953

to nearest 10/-

Electricity: )

Gas: ) Responsibility of tenant.

Coal: )

Total cost of the heating and lighting

plus proposed rent: £39. 0s. 0d.

Remarks: Accommodation only valued at 10/-per week for superannuation purposes.

Emoluments

Manual Staff

Name: J.E. Hughes

Park: Selly Oak Pk.

Present salary: £523

12½% of salary: £65- 7- 6.

Present Emolument Deduction: £50

Amount of Increase: £15- 7- 6.

Employees in Receipt of Emoluments

The Committee were advised that following the meeting of the Emoluments Sub-Committee further consultations had taken place with the Establishment Officer and it now appeared that, subject to the approval of the Establishment Committee, reasonable increases could be made in emolument values without necessitating the re-grading of the employees affected.

The Chairman stated that the Sub-Committee had given very careful consideration to the matter, and bearing in mind the fact that the employees concerned were required to (sic) live-in accommodation specified by the Committee, that the accommodation provided varied considerably and that the employees were subject to certain inconveniences outside the normal working hours, the emolument values at present applicable were not unreasonable. It was therefore –

15900 Resolved:- That in the circumstances referred to in the foregoing report of the Emoluments Sub-Committee, no alteration be made in the valuation of the emoluments of employees of the Parks Department.

Alderman Mrs. Hyde submitted the following report of the Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee:-

Various Sites – Provision of Tennis Courts

By Minute No. 15,698 of the last meeting of the General Committee, I was instructed to report further to your Sub-Committee concerning the schemes for the construction of hard tennis courts recently included in the list of priorities to be referred to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government for the purpose of loan sanction.

In view of the subsequent rejection of this item by the General Purposes Committee, your Committee may wish to consider making provision in successive annual revenue estimates for construction of these courts, and I set out below the list of sites with appropriate estimated costs submitted to the General Purposes Committee in September last:-

From a list of 13 sites:-

Selly Oak Park 2 Courts Estimated cost: £1,000

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

As regards the items contained in the foregoing list, I recommend that the necessary total expenditure be spread over the next seven years, and below I give the programme of works in order of priority, as suggested after consultation with your District Superintendents:-

1^st in the list of 13 sites:-

Financial Year 1956-57 Selly Oak Park- 2 Courts Estimated Cost £1,000

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

Various Sites – Provision of Tennis Courts

15929 Resolved:- That the suggested programme for the construction of hard tennis courts at various sites, as referred to in the foregoing report, at a total estimated cost of £15,900 be approved, on the understanding that the expenditure to be incurred will be met from this Committee’s Revenue Estimates during the period specified in the report.

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

Entertainments in the Parks, 1955 Season

Average attendances at the Summer Theatres for 1954, as compared with 1953, were as follows:-

There then follows a list of 8 sites which did not include Selly Oak Park

Average attendances were slightly lower this year, except in the case of Aston Park, where an increase was recorded, due to the children’s matinees being well attended.

It is suggested that for 1955 the policy of short seasons of not more than four or five weeks in length be continued, and that eight parks might be utilised as in 1953.

The following provisional suggested programme is submitted for the Committee’s consideration:-

There then follows a list of 8 sites which did not include Selly Oak Park

The above suggested programme has been arranged so that the first park opens immediately after the Festival of Entertainments, and the last theatre closes on the Saturday before the City of Birmingham Show. The programme builds up to five parks operating during the Birmingham holiday week and six parks operating during the August Bank holiday week. Attendances are always at their highest during these two weeks.

With regard to the addition of an eighth park, it is suggested that the following might be considered:-

From a list of 4:-

(2) Selly Oak Park

This park has also had a Summer Theatre previously, and the time might be opportune to try a theatre there again. This park is also in an area not having a Summer Theatre.

The Committee’s instructions are desired.

(Compiler’s Note: In the out-turn the park was not selected as the eighth venue for a Summer Theatre.)

Report to Council – 9^th November 1954

The following Report of the Committee to the City Council on 9^th November, 1954 together with resolutions passed thereon was submitted:-

Memorials

Selly Oak Park - Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

On 25^th May, 1954, a memorial was submitted to the City Council protesting against the closing during the normal hours of closing of Selly Oak Park of the pathway in that park leading from Corisande Road to Gibbins Road.

The facts concerning this pathway are that during World War II the gates were left open so that the general public could gain access to the air raid shelters which were constructed therein. At the conclusion of the War the gates were again closed at night-times, but as a result of local representations arrangements were made for the gates at Corisande Road, Harborne Lane and Gibbins Road to be kept open for the convenience of young people living on the Weoley Castle Estate who were associated with various youth activities in Selly Oak.

The gates continued to be left open at night until, on the instructions of your Committee, they were closed at the normal hours for the closing of the park with effect from 1^st June last.

Indeed, a number of criminals have been caught with stolen property in their possession, solely on account of their being found in a park. The opening of parks etc., at night time would provide greater opportunity under cover of darkness for indecency and indecent assaults, types of offences which are at present very prevalent.

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

It was moved by Mr. Councillor Chaffery, and seconded,

That the report of the Parks Committee be approved.

It was moved by Councillor Mrs. Hammond, and seconded, as an amendment,

That the following words be added to the motion, namely “Except that part relating to the closing of Selly Oak Park, which matter again be referred back to the Committee for further consideration.”

During the debate, it was moved, seconded and

Resolved –

That the question be now put.

The amendment was put and carried.

The original motion being put as amended.

Resolved –

43465 That the report of the Parks Committee be approved except that part relating to the closing of Selly Oak Park, which matter again be referred back to the Committee for further consideration.

Alderman Simpson recalled that he had supported the Committee’s proposals concerning the pathway at Selly Oak Park, as set out in the foregoing report, and said that he was of opinion that the City Council should be informed that the Committee adhered to their attitude concerning this pathway, and that it should be left for the Council to give an instruction as to whether it should remain open at night or not. He pointed out that if the Park remained open at night-time this Committee would assume responsibility for the protection of the public resorting thereto, after the normal closing hours, and further that there was no doubt that other sections of the public would desire similar facilities elsewhere.

Councillor Mrs. Hammond stated that she had consulted the Town Clerk’s Department concerning the terms of her amendment to the Council report and was informed that the reference back of a matter in these terms was tantamount to an instruction to the Committee. She, therefore, contended that the Committee were under a moral obligation to accept it as such.

Alderman Cooper pointed out that the Lord Mayor had specifically ruled from the rostrum that the reference back was not an instruction to the Committee.

The Chairman reminded the Committee that the City Council had voted, by a majority of 99 to 29, in favour of the proposal to refer back the question for further consideration. He emphasized that it was not the Parks Committee’s responsibility to provide a public footpath at this Park but he suggested that, bearing in mind the reality of the vote, the Committee should, under protest, arrange for the footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road to be fenced and that this action should be reported to the City Council. After the Council had received the report, the Public Works Committee should be asked to accept responsibility for the footpath and the Watch Committee would then be responsible for controlling it.

Councillor Gurden agreed with Councillor Mrs. Hammond’s contention and asked for the restoration of the privilege enjoyed by the public at Selly Oak Park for the past 14 years. There was no necessity to incur expenditure on fencing and lighting at this stage, but this question might be examined in 6 months time.

Councillor Horton suggested that a solution satisfactory to both sides would be to surrender the area of land at Selly Oak Park lying between the footpath and the canal, for housing purposes. He would still oppose any proposal to open Parks beyond normal times.

Councillor Wothers supported Councillor Horton’s remarks and indicated that he would be prepared to consider his suggestion concerning the possibility of utilization of a portion of the Park for housing purposes. He had no doubt that if the pathway was opened permanently, request would be received for similar facilities in other areas.

The Chairman stated that there were two alternatives open to the Committee – either to fence the pathway or to leave the Park open at night-time as had been the case during recent years. As regards this latter course, responsibility would devolve on the Committee for the protection of the public, and in his view they would have no option but to arrange for the Park to be patrolled at all times.

At this stage the Chairman said that he felt that the Committee should definitely indicate their policy with regard to the opening of parks outside the normal hours. It was thereupon –

15963 Resolved:- (Councillors Gurden and Mrs. Hammond dissenting) That the decision contained in Minute No. 15472, i.e. that this Committee are not in favour of permitting the opening of parks in the City at night-time, be re-affirmed.

Councillor Mrs. Hammond then expressed the view that Selly Oak Park was an exception and that the general policy did not arise thereon. She merely wished the Park to remain open as it had done for the last 14 years.

On being asked for his views, the General Manager stated that he felt that the Council’s intention was that the pathway should remain open as hitherto, although he did not feel that this meant the complete abandonment of the principle of closing parks at night. He felt that the best course would be for the pathway to be fenced and gates provided in the fence in appropriate positions. The pathway could then be handed over to the Public Works Committee for use as a public footpath and the City Police would assume responsibility for patrolling it. The Parks Committee had no duty to provide means of access to badly developed housing estates such as the one in the Corisande Road area.

Alderman Simpson reiterated his opinion that the Committee should advise the City Council that they had further considered the question of this pathway and could not recommend any alteration in their attitude thereto. However, the Council could be advised of the General Manager’s suggestion and requested to decide the policy to be adopted thereon.

Councillor Gurden, supported by Councillor Mrs. Hammond then stated that he felt that the Committee should revert to their practice of allowing Selly Oak Park to remain open beyond the normal hours of closing and that the General Purposes and Finance Sub-Committee should be requested to give immediate consideration to the means for dealing with the problem, including the suggestion that a portion of the park might be surrendered for housing purposes.

It was moved by the Chairman, seconded by Councillor Horton, and finally –

15964 Resolved:- (Alderman Simpson dissenting) That, with regard to the question of the closing of Selly Oak Park as referred to in Council Minute No. 43465:-

(a) This Committee record their appreciation of the fact that they must at all times have regard to their responsibility for the safety of members of the public resorting to sites under their control.

(b) Whilst this Committee remain of opinion that their decision to close the pathway at Selly Oak Park referred to in the Council Minute during the normal hours of closing parks was the correct one, they nevertheless recognise the needs of residents in the area of Corisande Road etc., for a permanent right of way along the line of this footpath, but that it is not within the terms of their delegations to provide such right of way: they therefore consider that the Public Works Committee should be approached with a view to their considering the adoption of the pathway as a public footpath.

(c) As a matter of urgency pending a decision by the Public Works Committee as to its possible adoption as a public footpath, and subject to his consulting the Town Clerk concerning any legal restrictions and the City Treasurer concerning the possibility of the provision of the necessary money by the Finance Committee, the General Manager be authorised to take all requisite steps for the fencing and lighting of the pathway on Selly Oak Park leading from Corisande Road to Gibbins Road without delay, at an estimated cost of £1,325 for fencing and £930 for lighting, it being understood that the pathway is not to be opened beyond the normal hours of closing parks until the work has been completed.

(d) Subject to there being no restrictive covenants on the use of the land concerned at Selly Oak Park, the Public Works Committee be requested to consider taking the necessary steps for the designation as a public footpath of the land comprised in the pathway referred to in (c) above.

(e) The City Council be informed in due course of the foregoing proposals.

6^th December 1954 - Parks Department (Operations Card 26 D2)

Footpath between Corisande Road and Gibbins Road

After a lengthy discussion at a meeting of the Parks Committee on 6^th December 1954 it was agreed by Min. No. 15964 that (a) The Public Works Committee be asked to consider adopting the footpath as a public footpath. (b) Pending a decision by the Public Works Committee the General Manager to arrange for the Footpath to be fenced and lighted at a cost of approximately £1,325 for fencing and £930 for lighting.