Issue - meetings

The Head of Planning and Building Control submitted a report on the objectives and priorities for the Conservation and Heritage Service in the light of a previous decision to convene Conservation Area Reference Groups.  He explained where Officers’ resources had been directed and that a range of proactive work had been undertaken in Conservation Areas and what progress had been made. 

Councillor K Crofton queried whether sufficient resources were being directed to this issue to ensure continued pro-activity and to increase momentum of the exercise.  He suggested that this be increased.  This was supported. 

Councillor R Cheswright suggested that information be made readily available for the public to ensure that they know what they can and cannot do in Conservation Areas.  The Head of Planning and Building Control provided clarification in response to this and a further question regarding the possible rationale in relation to an increase in the number of planning applications. 

The Executive Member for Development and Council Support made reference to limited staff resources in relation to conservation area work.

Councillor K Crofton stated that the Head of Planning and Building Control should be given increased resources to accelerate proactive work.  This was supported.

The Committee noted the current work programme arrangements and asked the Head of Planning and Building Control to put forward a business case to increase resources.

RESOLVED – that (A) the balance in the output delivery by the Conservation and Heritage Service between reactive and proactive work be noted;

(B)   the current work programme arrangements detailed in the report be endorsed; and

(C)   Officers put forward a business case to increase Officer resources to accelerate proactive work in relation to Conservation Areas.