Agenda and minutes

Councillor Johnson was a substitute for Councillor Haines.

Councillor Holmes was a substitute for Councillor Cox.

Councillor Plant was a substitute for Councillor Wilkinson.

RESOLVED:

That the minutes of the meeting held on 5 February 2024, be approved as a correct record.

·         Disclosable Pecuniary Interests

·         Other Interests

There were none.

(At least two clear days notice required, in writing, to the Proper Officer in accordance with Procedure Rule 15).

There were none.

Members received a report which updated them on progress made to make changes to the mowing regime at six pilot green spaces since the last report in June 2024.

In June 2024 the report to this committee set out the aspirations of the Council to change the way they maintain some of our green spaces. Traditionally, the Council had adopted a more formal manicured way of managing and maintaining its green spaces, keeping amenity grassed areas short, cut on a fortnightly basis.

Members thanked Officers for a thorough report. They suggested a final proof of the signage take place prior to sign off and that the Officer prepare a report to Cabinet that shows the costs of a maintenance plan and leasing machinery on a short-term basis.

Members discussed:

·         wildflower sites

·         machinery

·         consulting with farmers

·         signage

·         expansion of the sites

·         cost of hire v’s purchase of machinery

·         option to hire to parish and town councils

·         environmental conditions that affect the rate of growth

·         efficiencies that can still be made

·         consultation with stakeholders who use the green spaces

RESOLVED:

That members reviewed and discussed the report.

Any additional items to be added to the Work Programme:

·         Chair’s Items

·         Members’ Items

Members were advised that garden waste would return to the committee.

Members requested the accommodation acceleration plan be added to the work programme and suggested that the Street Furniture report include what assets were located in each parish.

Members were advised that a meeting of Chair’s and Vice Chair’s would take place to discuss all work programmes prior to the meeting of full council in May.

RESOLVED:

That the update be received.