Issue - meetings

That the Regulations and their effect on the composition of the Committee in the future, be noted.

The Senior Solicitor presented a report on the implications to the Committee arising from the Size and Composition of Local Planning Authority Committees (Wales) Regulations 2017 (the Regulations) to be implemented on 5 May 2017.

Whilst the current arrangements conformed with the necessary size of the Committee and quorum for meetings, there were additional requirements prohibiting the use of substitutes on the Committee and permitting only one Member from a two Member ward to sit as a Committee member.

In response to concerns raised by Councillor Thomas on the latter point, the Senior Solicitor explained that in the absence of guidance on the legislation, a local approach would be developed on meeting this new requirement, such approach to be addressed as part of the arrangements for the Annual General Meeting.

During discussion on the new regulations, concerns were raised that eliminating the use of substitutes could impact on the quorum at meetings.  It was envisaged that elected Members would resolve single ward representation on the Committee through discussions.  However, in the event that agreement could not be reached between different parties, it was suggested that names could be drawn out of a hat or by prioritising the Member with the highest number of election votes.

RESOLVED:

That the Regulations and their effect on the composition of the Committee in the future, be noted.