""The tender process has been shrouded in secrecy," he said. "The City have systematically refused to engage with the local community and have steadfastly avoided any public scrutiny. "A decision to award the leases to the existing operators will go some way towards restoring public trust in the City. The ball is in the City's court. We sincerely hope that they come to the right decision.""
""A competitive remarketing process will help us ensure a high-quality visitor experience, offering welcoming community spaces that continue to meet the needs of local people. "We deeply appreciate the long-standing contributions of our cafe operators. Their experience and dedication are valued, and they have been encouraged to take part in this opportunity. "No leases have been awarded at this stage, and all applicants and operators will be notified directly of the outcome before any public announcement is made.""
The City of London put leases for cafes on and around Hampstead Heath out to tender earlier this year, with preferred bidder decisions expected at a committee meeting on December 8. Local campaigners complain of a lack of transparency, saying the City has refused to engage with the community and avoided public scrutiny, and urging that leases be awarded to the existing operators to restore public trust. A City spokesperson says a competitive remarketing process aims to ensure a high-quality visitor experience, that current operators have been encouraged to apply, and that no leases have yet been awarded.
Read at www.standard.co.uk
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