Issue - meetings

To adopt the Enterprise Area MasterplanVision Report as Council Policy

Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones in an ad hoc statement said that the Masterplan provided an opportunity for long-derelict land to be put back into use, for the river to be given back to the people of Bath and to provide a catalyst for business and the exchange of ideas.  He warned however that land was finite, and once sold off could not easily be reclaimed.

Councillor Ben Stevens introduced the item.  He explained that the map on the centre pages of the document set out the detail.  The Masterplan fitted closely with the Placemaking Plan and the Transport Strategy.  The Council was significantly ahead of neighbouring authorities and had available a rich source of sites.  He agreed with Councillor Anketell-Jones about the opportunity to return the river back into use by local people.  He referred to paragraph 3.2 of the report and explained that the words “these projects” should say “”projects in Bath & NE Somerset”; and that after the words “not delivered”, should be added the words “currently a liability of up to £1.5M”.

He moved the proposals.

Councillor Paul Crossley seconded the proposal.  He welcomed the observations made by Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones and stressed that the Masterplan would provide valuable opportunities for the area.

Councillor David Dixon congratulated Councillor Stevens on the document which showed vision and which was an ambitious plan for the derelict stretch of the river.  He stressed the need to embrace the very best architecture and the need to attract inward investment in jobs.

Councillor Tim Ball felt that the document was exciting; it would deliver sustainable development and controlled growth.  He was keen to develop further plans to extend the enterprise area along the river towards Keynsham.

Councillor Ben Stevens summed up by pointing out that the Masterplan would protect the interests of every resident and would not leave the future in the hands of market interests.

On a motion from Councillor Ben Stevens, seconded by Councillor Paul Crossley, it was

RESOLVED (unanimously)

(1) To ENDORSE the vision, objectives and priorities set out in the Bath City Riverside Enterprise Area Masterplan.