Issue - meetings

Following scrutiny, members supported the recommendation outlined in the draft Cabinet report

Cllr. Rahaman declared a personal and prejudicial interest and left the meeting.

The Head of Leisure, Tourism, Heritage and Culture provided members with a brief overview of the report contained within the agenda pack. The report represented joint work between the Education and Environment directorates and was funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF).

Members questioned whether the masterplan would be considered under a phased approach.

The Head of Service confirmed that the detail of the plan was still to be considered. A piece of work was included for the consultants to consider the first stage projects, but this was later removed. The approach will depend on what funding opportunities are available. There may be an early opportunity in relation to the Naval Club; it is currently closed but tenants are being sought. Work is required to produce a phased project list.

Members commented that the masterplan was promising, however, concern was raised regarding rubble that had been deposited near the Naval Club sand dunes, following the redevelopment of the old town in the 1960’s/1970’s. Recent storms have uncovered some of this waste and it was suggested that exploratory work should be undertaken to sample what may be underneath the sand.

The Head of Service confirmed that there was awareness that items have been uncovered on the beach due to coastal erosion and this will be taken into consideration. The plans for the sand dunes included boardwalk areas to manage erosion and protect biodiversity

Members questioned if there was sufficient car parking available at the beach, especially for camper vans.

The Head of Service commented that it was not unusual for seafront areas to face pressures relating to car parking, but confidence was held that sufficient parking was available for an average day. It was acknowledged that on peak days, parking could be an issue but there needed to be a balance, as any further provision would mean large areas of land being empty for other periods. Parking was available along the seafront within walking distance of areas of potential interest. There are proposals around car parking at zone one and the potential for car parking in zone two. In relation to camper van parking, there are more suitable opportunities across the county borough, proposals will be brought forward when appropriate.

Members commended officers for the thorough and positive report. However, there was disappointment that the area to the north of Princess Margaret Way was not included in the masterplan as members felt a holistic approach should be taken when seeking opportunities for regeneration. Concern was held regarding the possibility of raising the publics expectations in times of limited funding to achieve the plans. It was suggested that an addendum could be attached to the report, outlining funding streams.

Members commented that more housing was needed in the borough, the waiting list for a housing association property was high. It was suggested that a compromised position of a mixed use event space with housing would have been more appropriate. Members  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4