Agenda item

The Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity (and Deputy Leader) to submit a report updating Cabinet on the project and on other activities relating to the Country Park, outlining the next steps for the construction of the path and seeking approval for additional funding required to complete the project.

Cabinet

1)    NOTED progress made so far and the next steps;

2)    APPROVED the increase of £8k in the Capital Programme for the construction of the path in the Country Park, with the project being funded from s106 monies and grant funding.

Pranali Parikh, Director for Growth and Regeneration introduced the report, the purpose of which was to update Cabinet on the project and on other activities relating to the Country Park, outlining the next steps for the construction of the path and seeking approval for additional funding required to complete the project.

The Country Park was a much loved asset.  The Council had undertaken work to deal with encroachment issues, grounds maintenance improvements, repair and maintenance issues and a study on the impact on ecology and wildlife near access points at park.

The design and construction of the path had been proposed and approved 18 months ago.  However, the new estimate of the works was £8k more than the currently approved budget and Cabinet approval for the increase (which would be funded through S106 monies and grant funding was sought).  Contractors had been appointed and the Council would work with adjoining landowners for access to undertake the wk.  The work would be undertaken early 2021 and would take 4 – 6 weeks to complete.

The Council was preparing a repair and maintenance programme as part of the management plan for the Country Park.  If approved, the work could be carried out in 2021.  A similar planned maintenance approach was being considered for the café and visitor centre.  This required some investment and long term options for the building and future long term use needed to be considered.

The bridge had been raised as an area of concern, particularly in winter, due to its slippery surface.  Approval from the Environment Agency was required to enable a detailed survey to be undertaken.  The estimated cost of works was £40 and if approved the work could begin in 2021.  In the meantime, the Council would consider an improved and enhanced maintenance programme to ensure that the surface is useable throughout the year.

The Council had received grant funding to undertake the assessment and provide a business case for the leisure offer within Melton.  As part of this 30k had been set aside to undertake a masterplan for the Country Park, which would look at establishing the Country Park as a destination for leisure activities.

Councillors Glancy and Higgins had been passionate about engagement with stakeholders and user groups for this work.  Discussions with these groups would be held to scope out the project details for the work.

Councillor Leigh Higgins, Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity (and Deputy Leader) thanked those who had helped to inform the report, particularly Jane Wilson (Friends of the Country Park), the Persimmon Residents Group, Councillors Glancy, Lumley, Posnett and Wilkinson.  He thanked the Council for ensuring the Park remained open to enable use and enjoyment of this leisure facility and outdoor space.  There was still much work to be done to promote use of this great asset.  He highlighted that the Council had been very successful with gaining Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) grant funding and this was positive for leisure facilities in and around the town.

During discussion the following points were noted:

·         Members thanked Councillors Glancy, Higgins, Lumley, Posnett and Wilkinson for their work.

·         Members welcomed the development of a masterplan for this valued asset but acknowledged that caution should be exercised as funding for 2021 would be restricted and serious budget decisions would need to be made.

Cabinet

1)    NOTED progress made so far and the next steps;

2)    APPROVED the increase of £8k in the Capital Programme for the construction of the path in the Country Park, with the project being funded from s106 monies and grant funding.

Reason for the decision

The construction of the path has been approved by the Council and has been raised as a priority by the ward members for the last two years.

Concluding the construction of the path will enhance connectivity and accessibility to the park for visitors and local residents.  It will improve footfall and allow the benefits of the park to be shared more widely.