Decision details

The Access & Natural Environment Manager presented an update on the ongoing Rights of Way Service review with recommendations to meet the required 30% reduction in core budget by maximising income and reducing expenditure, as part of the Authority’s drive to address its financial position.

Information was shared on the approach taken to the review which involved exploring more creative ways of working, engaging with volunteer groups and benchmarking with other Authorities to develop a more robust charging mechanism.  It was anticipated that the savings would be realised in 2017/18.  The Chief Officer (Planning & Environment) explained that staff restructure was still under development.

Councillor Hilary McGuill spoke in support of Countryside Services and suggested working in partnership with various voluntary organisations as well as the Council-run initiative ‘Walking for Health’.  The Manager said that the aim was to explore different sector outdoor groups and that links with Sustrans provided a volunteer network to help maintain the cycle network.  The team had also been able to access funding through Glynd?r University.  Councillor McGuill felt it was important that the savings from the re-tendering of the strimming contract should not compromise service delivery.  The officers assured Members that the contractor was required to meet quality standards.

Councillor Mike Peers said it was important that a 30% efficiency should not reflect any reduction in service and questioned whether similar reductions in charges could be identified in other areas.  Councillor Bernie Attridge said it was the intention to seek out other opportunities for value for money elsewhere and pointed out that Flintshire was amongst the lowest charging Authorities in Wales.  The Chief Officer gave examples where charges were being reviewed and reminded Members that the Rights of Way service was new to this portfolio.

The Manager responded to comments raised by Councillor Ian Dunbar on continuing work with the Groundworks Green Team and other outdoor groups for the benefit of the service.   On the unauthorised use of byways, controls were in place to ensure that use was appropriate and any reported problems could be followed up via multi-agency links.

The Chairman permitted Councillor Carolyn Thomas, who was present in the public gallery, to speak on the item.  She referred to the proposed staff restructure and hoped that the excellent service and knowledge of footpath officers were not affected by the changes.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the increase in proposed charges be supported;

(b)       That the reduction in proposed expenditure be agreed; and

(c)       That the work being progressed to define a new staffing structure be noted.