Agenda and minutes

The following member made a declaration of interest at the commencement of the meeting:

Cllr. J. Evans            Re:         Report of the Head of Streetcare – Gnoll Parking Charges as he is a resident of Cimla Crescent.

Members received an overview of the increase in parking, footgolf and room hire charges at Gnoll Country Park for 2018/19.

A ward member highlighted to the Committee that residents were concerned that fewer people would utilise the car park due to the increase in parking charges and felt that it may be a way of having residents only parking imposed on them. Officers highlighted that residents parking would not be automatically imposed as such a proposal would have to be consulted upon and it would be for members to take into consideration such consultation.

It was also highlighted that the ward member felt that there was not going to be as much of an income generated as officers expect.

Members asked if Margam Park’s charges were increasing. Officers highlighted that it was being increased by 50p, however, it had not been put in front of members as the officer had delegated authority.

Members were concerned that the parking charge increase may affect the park run and dog walkers. Officers highlighted that a season ticket could be purchased for £52 per year equating to £1 a week for unlimited use. Officers also asked members to consider that to comply with the Forward Financial Plan a £30,000 saving had to be made at the site and it was difficult to identify alternative savings without reducing standards / facilities.

Members asked what do the Council do to increase uptake with the room hire. Officers confirmed that IT hardware had recently been updated and that Wifi had recently been installed at the Visitor centre and that since these improvements they have started marketing the room internally.

Members were concerned about the danger that the parking charge increase may have on the room hire and café. It was requested that a monitoring report be brought back in 6 months’ time to view this effect and to monitor how much income would have been provided from the increase in cost.

Following scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.

Members received information on the parking charges at Afan Forest Park and to incorporate the car park into the Councils off-street parking order.

Members were concerned that the increase in parking charges may affect the businesses that are located there. Officers highlighted that whilst the businesses do not really want any increase they are aware of the budget pressures and are generally supportive of the need to have the increase.

Members asked that a monitoring report be brought back to committee in 6 months’ time to monitor the impact that the changes may have had on the existing businesses.

Following scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.

Members received information on a further contract with the RNLI in respect of the Beach Lifesaving Service at Aberavon as detailed in the private circulated report.

Members asked whether the cost of the service includes the equipment and vehicles. Officers confirmed that all equipment and vehicles are included.

Following scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.