Issue - meetings

Members considered a progress report on the Bromsgrove Town Centre redevelopment and the consultation surrounding the Issues and Options.  There was a lengthy discussion on this matter and several questions were raised which were answered by the Chief Executive.

It was clarified that the Bromsgrove Town Centre Area Action Plan Issues and Options paper put forward options rather than suggestions so to provide consultees with ‘food for thought’.  

It was explained that results would be analysed and would form the basis of the preferred option.  It was anticipated that further consultation relating to the preferred option would be carried out in early 2009.

The Board was informed that it was a long term strategy and due to planning constraints there were statutory timescales which had to be followed.  However, it was expected that some initiatives would be progressed more quickly.

The Chairman urged Members of the Board to complete the questionnaire to ensure their views would be considered.  The Board as a whole was also given the opportunity to put forward general comments and views which it wished officers to take into consideration.

Reference was made to likely requests relating to encouraging Hagley residents to visit Bromsgrove town centre.

Members of the Board discussed whether the needs of young people (particularly aged 14-20 years) were being addressed as there was a concern that the consultation document lacked focus on activities and places for young people in and around the town centre.  Some options were discussed and it was believed that it was important that other aspects such as housing for young people and families were linked.

There were some concerns relating to the accessibility of the questionnaire for all local residents across the whole of the District.  It was also believed that the questionnaire should be readily available throughout the consultation period.

RESOLVED:

(a)    that, as part of the town centre regeneration, careful consideration be given regarding the necessity for facilities for young people to ensure their needs were met;

(b)    that the Chief Executive consult the Senior Projects Manager (Mr. R. Savory) regarding ensuring the questionnaire was easily accessible to all local residents across the District and that the Board be updated on this matter; and

(c)     that the report be noted.