To the Leaders of Hounslow & Ealing Councils,
We the undersigned note:
· the recent work of the both Ealing and Hounslow Council and the Development Manager to progress the urgent restoration of Gunnersbury Park, the local history museum and mansions.
· the passion and commitment of both the Friends of Gunnersbury Park & Museum and the Save Trees in Gunnersbury Park groups and the wider community for these locally and nationally significant amenities.
· the recent pledge of Ealing Council to contribute £5m to the regeneration of Gunnersbury Park and Museum and welcomes their support.
· the total estimate of costs for the consultants (Jura) recommended option was £39 million, or £24 million project if the Sports Hub project is set aside as a separate phase to the programme. The consultants assumed Heritage Lottery Fund, English Heritage and London Development Agency funding of £7.5 million requiring £2.4 million from the two Councils in match funding. This would still leave a £14 million shortfall.
· if Hounslow match Ealing%u2019s £5m commitment it will still leave a £6.4 million funding gap.
· the Secretary of State and English Heritage have the power to put a Repairs Notice on both Councils directing them to immediately repair the stables and other buildings at risk in the park.
We the undersigned call on the Executives of both councils to:
· address the funding crisis with urgency so as not to delay progress in developing a business plan and submitting funding applications to national bodies.
· continue to improve governance arrangements at Gunnersbury with the introduction of a trust or similar body.
· commit to raise £1 million capital per annum over 7-8 years %u2013 starting with the 2010/11 budget. The annual capital provision might include: sponsorship, donations, legacy giving and small grants as part of a fundraising strategy, as well as both councils%u2019 own contributions. Capital provision must not involve building on the park. Partnership arrangements for the large mansion restaurant conferencing business that reduce pressure on the public purse should also be explored.
