Agenda and draft minutes

To receive and record any apologies for absence.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Kennett.                           

To approve the minutes of the Planning Policy Committee held on 05 February 2024.

RESOLVED that the minutes of the Planning Policy Committee held on 05 February 2024 be approved as true record and signed by the Chairman.

To receive and record any declarations of interests from Members present.

There were no declarations of interests relating to matters on the agenda.

The Committee considered the Annual Review of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Spending Protocol.

In response to questions from Members of the Committee, Councillor Robinson and the officers stated that:

1.     Every refurbished play area has provided inclusive facilities, such as sensory panels, for children with disabilities.

2.     Emsworth has been allocated a slightly larger sum of the Community Infrastructure Levy compared to the rest of the Borough because they were a neighbourhood plan area.

3.     The size of the play area and the type of equipment provided was determined by the open space strategy and local community engagement.

4.     Ward councillors were encouraged to take representation and involve in their wards’ local community development projects where they involve a Council asset.

5.     Damaged fences in play areas should be reported to officers to have them repaired as budget allows.

6.     Eastoke Corner’s new play area’s facilities, once installed, are covered by longer warranties and guarantees and were constructed of robust materials to reduce sea air corrosion.

Members scrutinised the report and raised the following points in the debate:

1.     The Community Infrastructure Levy has been well-spent and put into good use in local communities.

2.     Security measures should be introduced into these play areas in order to prevent vandalism.

3.     It would be important that families are provided with enjoyable play areas to spend quality time.

RESOLVED that the Committee:

1.     To note the Neighbourhood Portion spends which took place during the 2023/2024 year and the impact on the Borough’s infrastructure.

2.     To note that no changes need to be made in the forthcoming financial year in respect of the Neighbourhood Portion distribution