Agenda item

The Executive RESOLVED that:

      i.        A programme of investment into enhancing Greenspace security measures to be implemented at the locations listed in priority order shown in Annex A (subject to consultation with the local communities, the Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople communities and planning where required);

     ii.        The implementation of the individual schemes be delegated to the Executive head of Business after consultation with the Places and Strategy Portfolio Holder.

    iii.        The Executive is advised to recommend to Council that the Capital Programme for 2020/21 be increased by £192,000

The Executive considered a report summarising the outcomes of a review of existing security measures currently in place across the Council’s Greenspace estate and it car parks and setting out proposals to enhance the security arrangements at those sites considered to be vulnerable to unauthorised encampments.

It was stressed that no work would take place until consultation with local communities, ward councillors, the Gypsy and Traveller communities and other stakeholders had been undertaken  If the feedback received indicated that the proposed measures were unnecessary or alternative security measures were preferred for example bollards were preferred over bunds then plans would be reviewed.  Reassurance was given that no money would be spent until consultation work had been completed and local stakeholders had endorsed any work proposed.

It was noted that the list of sites included in Annex A was not an exhaustive list and over 80 sites had been assessed during the review.  It was agreed that the full list would be circulated to all members so that any anomalies could be identified.

Members were informed that the Council was working closely with Surrey County Council and the Surrey Borough and District Councils to identify appropriate locations for transit sites for the Gypsy and traveller community and a report would be brought to the Executive in September setting out potential options for permanent pitch sites.

The Executive RESOLVED that:

      i.        A programme of investment into enhancing Greenspace security measures to be implemented at the locations listed in priority order shown in Annex A (subject to consultation with the local communities, the Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople communities and planning where required);

     ii.        The implementation of the individual schemes be delegated to the Executive head of Business after consultation with the Places and Strategy Portfolio Holder.

    iii.        The Executive is advised to recommend to Council that the Capital Programme for 2020/21 be increased by £192,000