Issue - meetings

The Chairman submitted a report setting out the future work programme for Environment Scrutiny Committee for 2014/15. 

The Chairman drew Members’ attention to the inclusion of a report onto the work programme, of changes to the Council’s Environmental Crime Policies following the introduction of new legislation and guidance.  The Chairman also referred to reports for inclusion in relation to a Fuel Poverty Action Plan and proposals for supporting community groups in respect of Community Energy Projects.  These were supported.

Councillor C Woodward referred to the number of sky lanterns and balloons being dispersed into the air  and that the matter was currently being reviewed by Essex County Council.  The Head of Environmental Services stated that East Herts did not allow sky lanterns to be launched from any of its public open spaces and that this issue could  be covered by a protection order in future.  He stated that helium balloons could also be covered by a protection order  and these issues would be considered when the new orders were drawn up for EHC parks and open spaces. 

Councillor R Beeching referred to private land close to a local hotel used for weddings and the resultant debris including wire, from balloons and lanterns being released.  The Head of Environmental Services gave a summary of the legal position and advised that the Council had no powers to prevent  balloons from being released from private land, although this should be discouraged.  Councillor C Woodward suggested that the Council should issue a statement of its views on this issue on its website.  The Head of Environmental Services agree to update the web pages accordingly.

Councillor R Beeching stated that the issue of lanterns and balloons could be addressed in relation to licensing conditions and if applications were made for Temporary Events.

The Committee approved the report, as amended.

RESOLVED – that the work programme, as amended, be approved.