• DURING the lockdown I played a series of music shows in my front garden for my neighbours. I saw the good it did.

Recently a local group tried to organise an official small music and film event in our park but were stifled by Camden Council whose requirements made it impossible to run.

I believe council now has to change its “old” ways of thinking.

Of course, I understand that they have to keep people safe. But I think they need now actively to get involved in assisting local groups putting on small events in public spaces.

This for me is both a mental health and wellbeing issue.

My suggestion is that the council create a team and utilise borough-based small businesses to supply sound equipment and toilets (and security if needed) thereby boosting small companies.

It is summer.

Camden could also create workable and deliverable guidelines. By, for example, having daily large dance or exercise classes for children of all ages you only need a PA and one trainer and suddenly hundreds of children have somewhere safe and fun to go.

Four classes a day. And music performances are exactly the same. A show every night. All outside. There are many neighbourhood groups and facilitators who could get involved.

In these coronavirus pandemic days people desperately need this summer stimulus.

I have a plan!

PHIL RYAN
Agamemnon Road, NW6