Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the BioDiversity 4 All Project.

Executive Councillors: L Davenport-Ray & S Taylor

By means of a report by the Open Spaces Project Manager, (a copy of which was appended in the Minute Book), the Biodiversity 4 All – Project Update was presented to the Panel.

Following an enquiry from Councillor Harvey regarding the omission of the Riverside Park, Huntingdon from the report, the Panel were advised that the audit had been received after the report deadline but that it would be included in future plans.

Following a question from Councillor Alban, the Panel heard that all additional posts created by the project were fixed term and that the Ecologist roles were full time. It was further advised that a relationship had been established with Anglia Ruskin University to develop a intern and graduate placement programme. This relationship along with collaborative and funding opportunities would continue to be developed.

In response to a question from Councillor Shaw, the Panel were advised that 35 applications had been made in January but that only 10 could be taken forward. In addition it was noted that the team had been in contact with unsuccessful applicants to help develop their options and signpost them to external funding.

Following a query from Councillor Hunt, the Panel were assured that a robust Communications Plan was in place and that social media would be the preferred channel of communication.