Agenda item

The Lead Specialist (Strategic Planning) presented the report which gave members an opportunity to consider and agree the priorities for inclusion in the Area Chapter of the Council Plan for 2019/20. She explained that the content of the Area North Chapter had been developed using the outcomes of the member workshop and also included a review of current area delivery plans. 

During discussion the Lead Specialist (Strategic Planning) and Communities Lead responded to points of detail including:

·      As part of the Council Plan, the chapter would help direct resources.

·      Although the Area East chapter had already been agreed, it was acknowledged that as St Michael’s Ward would potentially be in Area East from May 2019, priorities applicable to that ward may need to be moved in to the Area East Chapter.

·      An explanation about delivery of Area+ working, and that a resource pack was currently being developed to provide information for parishes.

·      Acknowledge comments made about healthy lifestyles being a priority and the 1610 centre at Stanchester closing three months earlier than initially expected. Officers would go back and look at the needs assessment to see if there would be any impact on the Council Plan as a result of closure of the facility.

·      The Area Chapters were about focussing on specific projects or pieces of work. If other opportunities arose they could still be supported. Responsive work in communities would continue through the Locality Team.

·      The report was an opportunity for changes to be made. Following comments raised about specific mention to Somerton Memorial Field, members could, if they wished, change the wording to be more general and refer to Somerton Recreation Fields.

At the conclusion of the debate, members agreed the priorities for Area North to be presented to District Executive for consideration for inclusion in the Council Plan.

(Voting: 8 in favour, 2 against, 2 abstentions)