Issue - meetings

The Panel is asked to note the launch of the Water Space Study project, and to note the attached outline study brief and programme.

Cleo Newcombe-Jones, Project Coordinator – River Avon introduced the report. She ran through the themes of the Study and asked how the Panel would like to be involved.

Panel members made the following points and asked the following questions:

Councillor Appleyard stated that the Panel would like to make and early and positive contribution. He asked that this item be brought back to the Panel when certain milestones are reached. He stated that he wholeheartedly welcomes the study and feels that the river is underutilized.

Councillor O’Brien thanked the officer and commented that she is keen to see the river used for more things such as energy conservation and transport.

Councillor Appleyard noted that flood risk is mentioned and asked if the project is in a position to affect this. The officer responded that the project sits underneath the flood agency and that the project may look at localised surface water. Councillor Appleyard asked how business and leisure will be prioritised, the officer stated that a balance must be struck.

Councillor Macrae commented that this is a good project and a fantastic representation of partners working together. He asked that the officer bring the item back to the Panel if potential conflicts emerge.

Councillor Appleyard stated that the officer is invited to report back to Panel at the next stage (possibly July or September).