Issue - meetings

(a)       That the content of the scoping study be noted and the Flintshire Coast Park be taken forward as a local, informal entity;

(b)       That option 2 was the preferred coast park footprint to take forward;

and

(c)        That the Access & Natural Environment Manager establishes a Flintshire

Coast Park Steering Group to move forward the next steps for implementation.

The Access and Natural Environment Manager presented the report to inform on the progress of the scoping work to establish a Coast Park and to agree the recommendations for implementation.  He provided background information and explained that the concept of a Flintshire Coast Park had been re-explored through the commissioning of a scoping study which reviewed case studies and precedents before analysing the benefits and constraints. The study suggested potential coast park footprints and steps for implementation.  A Flintshire Coast Park for Flintshire would provide a fresh impetus and focus for

the coast, raising the profile of the foreshore and enable communities and

businesses to work sustainably and innovatively to help deliver environmental,

economic, and social prosperity.

The Access and Natural Environment Manager drew attention to the 4 options outlined in section 1.07 of the report, next steps, and timescales.

Councillor David Healey spoke in support of option 2.

Councillor Vicky Perfect commended the Access and Natural Environment Manager and his team on the work carried out on the Coastal Path.  She also thanked Mike Taylor for his work to repair coastal path defences. 

Councillor Mike Peers referred to page 130, paragraph 2.27 of the report, and asked if a further report could be submitted to a future meeting of the Committee to inform of the facilities to be provided at the Coast Park.  Councillor Peers expressed concerns that the financial implications of providing a Flintshire Coast Park were currently unknown and commented that all projects would be subjected to robust consideration in view of the Council’s current budget gap.

Councillor Tina Claydon sought reassurance that wildlife would be protected in the proposals. 

The Chair commented on the need to join the coastal path between Connah’s Quay and Flint.

The Access and Natural Environment Manager responded to the comments and questions raised.

The recommendations in the report were moved and seconded by Councillors Roy Wakelam and Mike Peers.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the content of the scoping study be noted and the Flintshire Coast Park be taken forward as a local, informal entity;

(b)       That option 2 was the preferred coast park footprint to take forward;

and

(c)        That the Access & Natural Environment Manager establishes a Flintshire

Coast Park Steering Group to move forward the next steps for implementation.