Garden Use and General Principles

Norland Square Garden is managed on a “village green” basis, encouraging common sense, civility, and neighbourliness rather than extensive written rules. The following guidelines are provided to help all members enjoy the space responsibly.

Parties and Private Events

If you wish to host a gathering of more than 10 people (up to 20 adults or 30 children), please contact the Secretary at secretary@norlandsquare.org to avoid scheduling conflicts. There is no charge for events of this size.

Larger gatherings (20+ adults or 30+ children) are considered Private Events and require Committee approval. Fees and deposits apply as follows:

  • Partial use of the garden (up to 5 hours):
    Up to 50 guests — £300 fee + £300 deposit
    Up to 100 guests — £600 fee + £500 deposit
  • Exclusive use (required for 100+ guests):
    Up to 5 hours — £2,000 fee + £500 deposit
    Full day — £3,500 fee + £750 deposit
  • Additional charges: £100 fee + £100 deposit for each marquee or portaloo.

Amplified equipment is not permitted. Gates must not be propped open. All events must finish by 11 pm.

Bouncy Castles and Inflatables

Play inflatables are permitted only if the hire company provides a minimum of £5 million Public Liability insurance. A copy must be sent to the Secretary before the event.

To comply with our insurance, the following conditions apply:

  • A responsible adult must supervise use, ensuring capacity limits are followed and users are of similar age and weight.
  • No shoes, food, drinks, or sharp objects are allowed on the inflatable.
  • The hirer acts as a bona fide subcontractor and is responsible for the activity.
  • The inflatable must have a valid PIPA tag or ADIPS declaration, confirming compliance with British Standard BS EN 14960.
  • Only experienced contractors with no prior incidents should be used.
  • The inflatable must be securely anchored with stakes or ballast.
  • Use is prohibited if wind speeds exceed Force 5 on the Beaufort Scale (approx. 24 mph / 38 km/h).

Barbecues

Free‑standing, raised barbecues may be used on the gravel paths. Barbecues must not be placed on the grass or on garden furniture.

Community Events

The Committee hosts several events each year and warmly welcomes volunteers. These events benefit the whole community and rely on member participation. Examples include Open Garden Squares Day (early June) and Bonfire Night (5 November).

Sports

Sports activities should be kept to the tennis court at the end of the garden. Football studs are not allowed. Small pop‑up goals are permitted, but please avoid using large equipment or occupying excessive space when the garden is busy. Remember to take all equipment home with you.

Dogs

Please clean up after your dog. Dogs are not permitted in the garden after dark or in the playground. Only dogs belonging to registered Norland Square residents may use the garden.

All dogs must be registered with the Dog Secretary, Maya Adcock. Visitors’ dogs are not permitted.

Membership and Fobs

Garden fobs are for the exclusive use of members and must not be shared. Fobs are issued to residents only, not landlords.

If you move out of the square or catchment area, you must return your fob to the Secretary at 6 Norland Square. Fobs are not transferable to new owners or tenants.

Guests are welcome, but members must be present at all times. For gatherings of 10 or more people, please refer to the party guidelines above.

Playground

Young children must be accompanied by an adult. Please ensure children do not climb on the roof of the play hut. Keep the gates closed to prevent dogs from entering.

Finally

Please help us care for the garden:

  • Respect the plants, wildlife, and flower beds.
  • Keep children, dogs, footballs, and similar items out of the beds.
  • Look after the facilities and equipment.
  • Be considerate of other members.
  • Take all rubbish home with you.

The Committee reviews these guidelines regularly to ensure the garden remains a peaceful and enjoyable space for everyone.