Decision details

It is RESOLVED that: -

(a)             Cabinet endorses the Stour Valley strategy and supports its inclusion as part of the forthcoming BCP Local Plan policies;

(b)            Cabinet approves the Stour Valley partnership model, using a Memorandum of Understanding between its core partners of The National Trust, BCP Council and Dorset Council;

(c)             Cabinet endorses that the core partners will bring forward fund-raising bids by the partnership to external grant bodies to support delivery of the Stour Valley objectives, specifically DEFRA’s Landscape Recovery Fund;

(d)            Cabinet approves a delegation of authority for future decision making to the Environment Service director in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy;

(e)             Cabinet agrees the geographic reference for Hick’s Farm in Bournemouth Core Strategy policy CS36, was incorrectly stated at the time the policy was drafted and that Cabinet recognises that Hick’s Farm lies within Throop, not Muscliffe’

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

The Stour Valley offers unique opportunities for people, communities and for nature recovery along the river corridor. The objectives of the project closely align with the BCP Corporate Strategy, delivering a sustainable environment for future generations and connecting communities throughout the river valley.

Adopting the partnership model provides continued governance and oversight of the project and ensures on-going delivery of the key aims and objectives. It also provides a strong platform to submit funding bids that will lead to more targeted delivery.