RESOLVED:  That

1.  The provision of the cycle ramp be approved; and

2.  The provision of the link way be approved.

See Record of Decision.

The report was introduced by the Lead Member for Corporate Services, with reference made to the planning permission given by the Inspector for the Church Road, Otham site and the condition for the provision of an off-site cycle ramp and link-way. The recommended option was for the Executive to be recommended to approve the provision of the cycle ramp and link way, as rejecting the proposal would not be in the Council’s interests.

During the debate, it was felt that further assurances were needed to ensure that the development of the cycle ramp and linkway occurred appropriately and within the parameters of the imposed condition.

In response, the Head of Property and Leisure confirmed that the Council would retain a good level of control over the cycle ramp and linkways development, as a licence agreement would be agreed between the Council and Bellway. The agreement would include the feedback mechanisms and information on the specifications and standards of the development. Bellway would be required to give prior notice before commencing works on the cycle ramp and linkway, and an estimated timeline for construction. This would ensure that the Council was forewarned of the development. The £40,000 commuted sum to be received by the Council was standard practice for the proposal, with the Parks and Open Spaces having confirmed that the fee would allow for the sites’ maintenance across the next 10-12 years. The installation of the cycle ramp and link way would reduce the Council’s liabilities, as it would include a new surface and the removal of steps.

The Committee expressed support for the proposal, as it was felt that it would provide additional facilities for the local community as a mitigating impact to the development.

RESOLVED: That the Executive be recommended to approve the provision of a cycle ramp and link way.

Note: Councillor Cannon joined the meeting at 6.40 p.m. and had no disclosures of interest or lobbying to declare.