The Statutory Foundation: The Hampstead Neighbourhood Plan 2025-2040
This article would analyse the City of London Corporation's new draft five-year business plan for the Heath (2026-2031). It would explore the tension between the Heath's role as a charitable trust and the need for commercial income. The piece would investigate proposals for new revenue streams, such as corporate events and filming, alongside plans for a padel or pickleball court. It would balance this against a host of ecological initiatives: creating up to 11 new small ponds, installing 70 leaky dams for natural flood management, and reintroducing grazing sheep. The article would assess whether the Corporation can successfully navigate the conflicting demands of modern visitors, conservationists, and its own balance sheet.