Alderman Gregory Jones KC has defended the decision to change operators of cafes on Hampstead Heath, arguing that the move was necessary for investment and sustainability. In a letter responding to criticism, he said nostalgia was driving opposition rather than practical considerations.
The City of London Corporation, which manages the heath as a charity, moved to longer leases after relying on short-term arrangements that limited investment in buildings, facilities and staff. The process was open and competitive, receiving 30 bids, including from existing operators.
One of the new operators, Daisy Green, is an independent London-based business with a track record of running community cafes. The change means workers on the heath will now be paid at least the London living wage by all operators.
Alderman Jones emphasised that the corporation underwrite the heath by nearly £12m last year, with no cost to council tax payers. He described the heath as a 'much-loved open space' welcoming 8 million visitors annually, and said the priority is to safeguard its future.
