Agenda item

(Voting: 10 in favour, 1 abstention)

Reason:  To agree the next steps to bring forward a Town Centre Gateway and seating area adjacent to 58 Fore Street, Chard and the allocation of resources.

The Chard Regeneration Scheme Project Manager summarised the agenda report.  She explained that the project proposal was to erect some permanent solid seating, with some planters and railings, in order to provide some pedestrian security and a more aesthetic gateway entrance to Chard Town Centre.  She referred to the cost and funding of the project and confirmed that Chard Town Council had agreed a contribution of £15,000 towards underwriting the scheme.  Members were informed that the Locality Team would look at a number of options for obtaining external funding. 

During the discussion, members made a number of comments which included the following:

·         It was felt that some consideration should also be given to enhancing the other side of the road;

·         The final design and layout of the scheme should be agreed by the Chard Ward members;

·         Queried how any external grant funding received would be apportioned between SSDC and Chard Town Council;

·         Sought clarification regarding future maintenance of the paving area, railings and seating;

·         Suggested topping the area with gravel in order to avoid a mishmash of tarmac in future years.

In response to questions, the Chard Regeneration Scheme Project Manager advised members of the following:

·         With regard to the funding available for High Street improvements, the Government would only except one application per authority for the current round of funding but there was a separate heritage fund which could be applied for;

·         The external grant funding could be apportioned at the same ratio as the upfront contributions;

·         Ongoing maintenance of the area would need further consideration.

Members agreed the recommendations of the report subject to the following additions:

·         An ongoing maintenance plan being agreed by SSDC and Chard Town Council;

·         Any additional external grant funding received towards the project to be apportioned to Chard Town Council and SSDC as a percentage of their original funding contribution;

·         Final agreement on the design and layout of the scheme to be delegated to the Chard Ward Members in consultation with the Chard Regeneration Scheme Project Manager.

(Voting: 10 in favour, 1 abstention)

Reason:  To agree the next steps to bring forward a Town Centre Gateway and seating area adjacent to 58 Fore Street, Chard and the allocation of resources.