Keeping the Green Lung Safe: A Look at the Hampstead Heath Constabulary

 

Keeping the Green Lung Safe: A Look at the Hampstead Heath Constabulary

Hampstead Heath, a cherished green space in the heart of London, benefits from the dedicated efforts of its own policing body, the Hampstead Heath Constabulary. This article will explore the history of this unique constabulary, examine its financial implications, evaluate its worth, and consider the justification for continued funding by the City of London Corporation.

A History Rooted in Legislation:

The foundations of the Hampstead Heath Constabulary are laid within specific legal frameworks. The City of London Corporation's authority to carry out functions related to open spaces stems from the 1989 Hampstead Heath Reorganisation Act, which itself refers to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government Provisional Order Confirmation (Greater London Parks and Open Spaces) Act 1967. Under Article 18 of the 1967 Order, constables can be formally sworn in to ensure the observance of enactments, byelaws, and regulations relating to open spaces under the Corporation's control. However, these officers can only act as constables when in uniform or possessing a warrant.

Established in 1992, the Hampstead Heath Constabulary was created with the specific aim of protecting the Heath and its numerous users through a framework of byelaws covered by criminal law legislation. Their remit extends to enforcing Byelaws, Regulations, Common Law, and Criminal Law, safeguarding City of London Corporation property, and responding to incidents that could detract from the enjoyment of Heath visitors. More serious criminal matters are handled by the Metropolitan Police Service, with the Hampstead Heath Constabulary providing assistance.

The Constabulary is comprised of 10 Constables and 2 Sergeants, overseen by a Constabulary Manager who reports to the Hampstead Heath Superintendent. Notably, two constables are supported by trained working police dogs in their patrol duties. Their duties are comprehensive, including regular patrols on foot, mountain bike, and marked vehicles across the entirety of Hampstead Heath, responding to calls from staff and the public, enforcing byelaws (potentially leading to arrests and prosecutions), providing reassurance and safety at events, and acting as a liaison with the Metropolitan Police.

The overarching vision of the Hampstead Heath Constabulary is about “Keeping the Heath Safe & Protected” in a visible manner that enhances the visitor experience. This aligns with the broader objectives of the "Engagement, Education and Enforcement Plan 2015," which supports the City of London Corporate Plan and the Hampstead Heath Management Plan.

Annual Spending and Resource Allocation:

In the financial year ending 31 March 2021, the total expenditure for charitable activities, which includes the preservation of Hampstead Heath, amounted to £9,320,721. This figure encompasses labour costs, premises costs, equipment, materials, and other services related to the running of the Heath.

Specifically regarding staff costs, the total emoluments of employees directly undertaking activities on behalf of the charity were £4,944,335 in 2020/21. While this figure covers all staff working for the charity, including those in maintenance, education, and management, a significant portion would undoubtedly be attributed to the 12-member Constabulary and their support.

Furthermore, support costs allocated to the preservation of Hampstead Heath totalled £1,266,781 in 2020/21. These costs cover activities undertaken by the City of London Corporation on behalf of the charity, such as human resources, digital services, legal support, accounting services, committee administration, and premises costs. Some of these support functions would directly benefit the Constabulary's operations.

It is important to note that the City of London Corporation's City's Cash fund contributes significantly towards the running costs of the charity, providing £6,451,305 in 2020/21. This funding would cover the net expenditure of the charity, including the costs associated with the Constabulary.

Evaluating the Worth of the Constabulary:

Assessing the worth of the Hampstead Heath Constabulary requires considering its impact on safety, security, and the overall management of the Heath. The "Engagement, Education and Enforcement Plan 2015" highlights the Constabulary's role in achieving low levels of crime and byelaw contraventions through its three-pronged approach.

The recorded data for January to December 2014 indicates significant activity:

• Engagement: Over 17,000 occasions of providing advice/assistance to the public.
• Education: Over 800 formal warnings issued for byelaw offences.
• Enforcement: 11 arrests made or assisted in, and 3 individuals formally prosecuted for byelaw offences.

These figures suggest a proactive presence focused on prevention and early intervention. The plan emphasizes making every contact count and involving the public in keeping the Heath safe.

Furthermore, the "Performance Highlights" section notes several instances where the Constabulary played a crucial role:

• Successfully prosecuting individuals for dog control offences.
• Peacefully evicting Occupy London Camp activists swiftly.
• Ensuring visitor safety at large events like the ‘Give it a Go Event’.
• Maintaining order and preventing serious crime at popular fairs.
• Combating cycling byelaw offences through targeted operations and prosecutions.
• Contributing to improvements in angling management.
• Promoting responsible cycling through safety and security events.

The fact that "acts of crime committed on Hampstead Heath or behaviours by individuals that are in contravention of the byelaws and regulations of Hampstead Heath continue to remain low" suggests that the Constabulary's presence and activities have a positive impact. Their visible patrols in key areas like Parliament Hill, Golders Hill Park, and the Ponds likely deter potential offences and provide reassurance to visitors.

The Constabulary's work extends beyond mere enforcement, encompassing engagement and education. By providing advice, issuing warnings, and holding educational events, they aim to foster a culture of respect for the Heath's byelaws and environment. Their collaborative work with other departments and agencies, both internal and external, further enhances their effectiveness.

Should the City of London Continue to Fund the Hampstead Heath Constabulary?

Based on the information provided, there is a strong argument for the City of London Corporation to continue funding the Hampstead Heath Constabulary.

• Protecting a Valuable Asset: Hampstead Heath is a significant and popular open space of national and regional importance for both wildlife and recreation. The City of London has a stated aim to maintain and extend its status as a prime location for wildlife and to provide sporting opportunities and promote good health. The Constabulary plays a vital role in protecting this asset and ensuring its safe enjoyment by millions of people.
• Maintaining Low Crime Rates: The consistently low levels of crime and byelaw contraventions on the Heath suggest that the Constabulary's approach of engagement, education, and enforcement is effective. Discontinuing funding could risk an increase in such issues, potentially detracting from the visitor experience and harming the Heath's environment.
• Specific Achievements and Proactive Work: The documented performance highlights demonstrate the Constabulary's proactive role in addressing various issues, from dog control to illegal encampments and cycling offences. Their involvement in ensuring safety at large public events is also crucial.
• Community Engagement: The Constabulary actively engages with the public, providing advice and assistance. This visible presence and community-oriented approach likely contribute to a positive perception of safety and security on the Heath.
• Legal Mandate: The City of London Corporation has a responsibility to manage and regulate the Heath, and the Constabulary is a key instrument in fulfilling this legal obligation.

While the exact cost of the Constabulary is not explicitly detailed, the overall expenditure on maintaining Hampstead Heath, funded significantly by the City's Cash, reflects the value placed on this green space. The evidence suggests that the Hampstead Heath Constabulary provides a valuable service in ensuring the safety, security, and proper management of this important public amenity. Therefore, continued funding by the City of London Corporation appears to be a worthwhile investment.