• ‘THE situation is not sustainable.’ This reference to the Hampstead swimming ponds by the City of London chairman of its Hampstead Heath Management Committee is puzzling, insofar as they have been that way for nearly 150 years: firstly, under the Metropolitan Board of works; then the London County Council and then the Greater London Council.

The City Corporation appears to run a permanent austerity policy and that seems to be what is unsustainable. How can it continue running Hampstead Heath, of which the ponds are an integral part, with ever-diminishing funding?

Late last year, the complaint was made that Hampstead Heath was being starved of the funds, in order that other newer City activities may be cross-subsidised by diverted funds.

There seem to be a number of problems. First, the City of London does not appear to prioritise existing obligations over new ones.

Secondly, governments reportedly make continuing requests for use of the long-established charitable funds which support Hampstead Heath and other commendable institutions.

The HS2 was cited as one such cuckoo in the nest of the golden goose of the City’s admirable charitable endeavours. If so, why? The Lord only knows!

I have attended meetings this month which demonstrate that the swimming associations and their membership are questioning but also positive in finding a successful solution which preserve both freedom and cash flow.

The swimmers, although faithful to the objectives of the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act – that the Heath (including its Ponds) should be free for the use of Londoners.

I think it is desirable for the Corporation to remind Treasury ministers, if and when they come calling for funds, that it has important, existing obligations and budget to meet. In the case of the swimming ponds, the amounts are microscopic in national terms.

That should be the crucial and legitimate point of democratic contact between “the people”, the City Corporation and Members of Parliament. If and when government seeks to blunderingly undermine the City’s mission on Hampstead Heath, “the people” need to know of it.

ROBERT SUTHERLAND SMITH
Chairman, United Swimmers’ Association of Hampstead Heath