Issue - meetings

To consider a report by the Interim Head of Service (Operations) regarding the structure of annual management plans for countryside assets.

Approves the structure of annual management plans for countryside assets, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the submitted report, and the programme for the development of management plans for all countryside assets, to provide the future strategic framework for the service, as detailed within the submitted report.

By way of a report from the Interim Head of Service (Operations), presented in his absence by the Team Leader (Grounds Maintenance) (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) the Cabinet considered the structure of annual management plans for countryside assets and the proposed programme for the development of management plans for all countryside assets.

The purpose of the management plans was to better direct the management, development and maintenance of countryside assets over the short and medium term. This would ensure there was a clear strategic framework for the Countryside Service going forward.  The management plans would be developed with input from existing voluntary groups involved with the Countryside Service as their expertise and contributions were essential in order to progress the self-management of selected assets by these groups.

The draft management plan for Barford Road Pocket Park, Eynesbury, would be used as the template for the development of future management plans for all countryside assets.

Having been invited to address the Cabinet, the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Panel (Economy and Growth) stated that the Panel looked forward to receiving an update report at its meeting in June and had suggested that site plans should be included with each asset ranked in order of amenity and wildlife value.

The Cabinet noted the fantastic countryside assets within the district and, in commending the comprehensive report and commenting that it could be shared with Town and Parish Councils, 

RESOLVED

to approve the structure of Annual Management Plans for countryside assets, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the submitted report, and the programme for the development of management plans for all countryside assets, as detailed in the submitted report, to provide the future strategic framework for the service.

To receive a report on the Annual Management Plans for Countryside Assets.

With the aid of a report by the Interim Head of Operations (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) the Annual Management Plans for Countryside Assets was received by the Panel. The report assesses the amenity and wildlife value of all the Countryside Service’s assets as well as what Department or Agency is best placed to manage those assets.

Members have expressed support for the report as it clearly zones the areas and identifies the Department responsible for the maintenance of the assets. The Panel has requested that in future could site plans be included within future updates of the report.

It was emphasised to the Panel that during the preparation work for the Management Plans it became clear that the Countryside Service was working on areas that were not necessary. Members were informed that the Service is in good order but requires streamlining.

The Panel has requested to receive an update on the Management Plans in June 2016 with the inclusion of site plans and the assets ranked in the order of amenity and wildlife value.