Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee supports the Planning, Environment and Economy cost pressures;

(b)       That the Committee supports the Streetscene and Transportation cost pressures; and

(c)       That no further cost efficiency areas be proposed by the Committee to be explored further.

The Chief Executive and Corporate Finance Manager introduced the second budget stage report which detailed the forecast and the cost pressures which would make-up the total budget requirement.

The Chief Executive provided background information and context.  A report to Cabinet and the Corporate Resources Overview & Scrutiny Committee in July provided an updated position on the budget for 2022/23.  The cost pressures identified were referred to the respective Overview & Scrutiny Committees with a request that they all undergo a rigorous review.  The details of the cost pressures for Planning, Environment and Economy, and Streetscene and Transportation were included in the report.

The Chief Executive, Corporate Finance Manager, Chief Officer (Planning, Environment & Economy) and Chief Officer (Streetscene & Transportation), provided a joint presentation which covered the following areas:

• purpose and background
• summary totals of cost pressures

ØPlanning, Environment & Economy and Streetscene & Transportation Cost pressures 2022/23

ØPlanning Environment & Economy pressures

ØStreetscene & Transportation pressures

• strategic solutions
• update on efficiencies
• budget timelines

In response to a question from Councillor Andy Hughes, the Chief Officer – Planning, Environment & Economy advised that discussions were ongoing with Wales Rally GB and they were keen to come back to Flintshire and that Flintshire hosted the event.  He commented that there was a need to make sure that the local spend does happen with the hospitality sector in Flintshire. He added that Wales Rally GB had given a commitment to return to Flintshire.

Councillor Paul Shotton supported the investment in parks.  Referring to Wepre Park, Connah’s Quay, he asked if there was any consideration being made for non-residents to make a contribution to the upkeep of the Park as use had increased significantly following ease of restrictions around Covid.  The Chief Officer (Planning, Environment & Economy) said ongoing discussion was taking place with the intention to develop Wepre Park.  Plans would be coming forward and consultation would take place with the local community.

Councillor Dennis Hutchinson referred to the Standard Landfill site, Buckley, and said a commitment to develop the site for recreation did not seem to have been taken forward.  Councillor Hutchinson cited the use of solar panels and upgrading of footpaths.  The Chief Officer, Planning, Environment and Economy advised that  no  commitment had been made  to where funding would be spent  as yet and consideration would be given to the  Standard Landfill site to see if it was an appropriate place for investment and the benefits that would arise.

The recommendations were moved by Councillor Paul Shotton and seconded by Councillor Joe Johnson.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Committee supports the Planning, Environment and Economy cost pressures;

(b)       That the Committee supports the Streetscene and Transportation cost pressures; and

(c)       That no further cost efficiency areas be proposed by the Committee to be explored further.