SOUTH HAMS OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL - THURSDAY, 2ND JUNE, 2011
Agenda, Reports and Minutes for the meeting
Agenda No Item
1. Agenda Letter - Economy & Environment Panel (Pages 1 - 2)
2. Reports
Reports to E&E Panel:
a) Item 7 - Project Delivery Plans (Pages 3 - 80)
3. Minutes (Pages 81 - 88)
Please reply to: Jo Doney Service: Corporate Services Direct Telephone: 01803 861466 Direct Fax: 01803 866669 E-Mail: [email protected]
To: Chairman & Members of the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel Our Ref: CS/JCD (Cllrs Baldry, Barber, Coulson, B Cooper, Foss, Pennington, Rowe, Smerdon, Stone, Vint, Wingate and Wright) cc: Remainder of the Council for information Usual press and officer circulation 24 May 2011 Lead Executive Members:
Dear Councillor
A meeting of the Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel will be held in the Cary Room, Follaton House, Plymouth Road, Totnes, on Thursday, 2 June 2011 at 2.00 p.m. when your attendance is requested.
Yours sincerely
Jo Doney Member Support Officer
FOR ANY QUERIES ON THIS AGENDA PLEASE CONTACT JO DONEY, MEMBER SUPPORT OFFICER ON DIRECT LINE 01803 861466
A G E N D A
1. Apologies for Absence
2. Chairmans Welcome
3. Urgent Business - brought forward at the discretion of the Chairman;
4. Division of Agenda - to consider whether the discussion of any item of business is likely to lead to the disclosure of exempt information;
5. Declarations of Interest - Members are invited to declare any personal or prejudicial interests, including the nature and extent of such interests they may have in any items to be considered at this meeting;
6. Public Forum – a period of up to 15 minutes is available to deal with issues raised by the public (page 1); 7. Project Delivery Plans - to consider a report that sets out two of the Delivery Plans which support the Council’s priorities, the Economy Delivery Plan and the Environment Delivery Plan (pages 2 to X);
8. Executive Forward Plan – to follow
Note: If any Member seeks further clarity, or wishes to raise issues regarding any future Executive agenda item, please contact Member Support Services before 12 noon on Tuesday 31 May 2011 to ensure that the lead Executive Member(s) and lead officers are aware of this request in advance of the meeting.
9. Future Work Programme – to consider items for programming on to the future work programme of the Panel, whilst having regard to the resources available, time constraints of Members and the interests of the local community.
Members of the public may wish to note that the Council's meeting rooms are accessible by wheelchairs and have a loop induction hearing system
* * * * * * N.B. Legal and financial officers will not, as a general rule, be present throughout all meetings, but will be on standby if required. Members are requested to advise the Member Support Service in advance of the meeting if they require any information of a legal or financial nature. * * * * * *
MEMBERS ARE REQUESTED TO SIGN THE ATTENDANCE REGISTER THIS AGENDA HAS BEEN PRINTED ON ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PAPER
If you or someone you know would like this publication in a different format, such as large print or a language other than English, please call Darryl White on 01803 861247 or by email at: [email protected]
AGENDA AGENDA ITEM ITEM
7 SOUTH HAMS DISTRICT COUNCIL 7
NAME OF COMMITTEE Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel
DATE 2 June 2011
REPORT TITLE Priority Delivery Plans
Report of Community Delivery Manager
WARDS AFFECTED All
Summary of report: To enable Members to consider two of the Delivery Plans which support the Councils priorities.
Financial implications: The resource implications of the actions proposed in the strategies are detailed in the action plans and, where necessary, have been incorporated into the Council’s Financial Strategy.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Members consider and influence the draft Delivery Plans for Economy and Environment
Officer contact: Kerry Booth, Community Delivery Manager, [email protected]
1. BACKGROUND
1.1 In order to ensure that it manages its resources in the most appropriate manner and targets resources where they are most needed, the Council regularly reviews its corporate priorities to ensure that they are relevant to the local area. At the Council meeting in December 2010, Members approved four high level priorities for the authority and authorised the development of detailed Delivery Plans for each priority.
1.2 The high level priorities that were approved are:
• Community Life • Economy • Environment • Homes
1.3 Following a range of consultation and involvement, the four Delivery Plans have been developed with partner and community organisations. These are still in draft format and there is still the opportunity for Members to influence and shape these plans.
2. EVIDENCE FOR DELIVERY PLANS
2.1 The delivery plans for Economy and Environment are attached at Appendix A and B. These set out the priorities for the next four years and include specific actions and targets for the next 12 months.
2.2 As set out in the Council’s Vision and Values the strategy reflects our ambition to engage effectively with local people to deliver top quality services in an innovative way so that communities feel supported and are enabled to prosper.
2.3 A wide range of consultation has taken place including:
• Stakeholder workshop with Joint Partnership (Sept 2010) • Member workshop to develop priorities (Oct 2010) • Officer sessions at both West Devon and South Hams (Jan 2011) • Member workshops (Feb / March 2011) • Economy Delivery Group • Environment Delivery Group
2.4 The Delivery Plans are evidence based from this range of consultation and they also consider a wide selection of statistical information which helps to provide a picture of the local situation.
3.0 ECONOMY DELIVERY PLAN
3.1 From consultation and available evidence we have identified three priorities: • Enabling a sustainable local economy • Improving the local economy • Supporting the local economy
4.0 ENVIRONMENT DELIVERY PLAN
4.1 From consultation and available evidence we have identified three priorities: • Sustainable Waste Management • Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisations • Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment
5.0 LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
5.1 The Council’s priorities must be approved by full council and these Delivery Plans will be presented to Council for consideration.
6. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
6.1 The resource implications of the actions proposed in the strategy are detailed in the action plan and have been incorporated into the Council’s Financial Strategy.
7. RISK MANAGEMENT
7.1 The risk management implications are:
Opportunities Benefits Provide strategic direction for the Offers clear strategic direction for economy authority and its partners will support the and environment in West Devon and South local economy in West Devon and South Hams. Hams working with our partners and the community. Delivering outcomes to local communities. Effectively engage communities in Economy and Environment Identified as developing plans for their locality to meet priorities for the area. local needs. Issues/Obstacles/Threats Control measures/mitigation Difficult economic conditions. Working closely with partners and Reducing funding. communities to develop plans that reflect emerging Government policy and meet local Uncertainty over how emerging need. Government policy could work. Annual updates to maintain relevance and ensure compliance with Government policy.
Corporate priorities Homes engaged: Economy Community Life Environment
Statutory powers: The implementation of new Economy and Environment Delivery Plans which require Council approval. Considerations of equality An impact assessment has been carried out and human rights: Biodiversity considerations: An impact assessment has been carried out Sustainability An impact assessment has been carried considerations: Crime and disorder An impact assessment has been carried out. implications: Background papers: None Appendices attached: Appendix A – Draft Economy Strategy 2011-2015 Appendix B – Draft Environment Strategy 2011-2015
INSERT PHOTOS
Economy Strategy 2011-2015 (DRAFT VERSION)
Delivery Plan of the South Hams and West Devon Community Strategy
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Contents
About this Document…………………………………… (page 3)
Chapter 1 – Background……………...…………………(page 4) • Shared services • Working in partnership
Chapter 2 – Context…………………...…………………(page 6) • The economy • Government policy • Our track record
Chapter 3 – Understanding the Economic Needs…….(page 10) • What are our communities telling us? • Profile of the local area: Place, People and Economy
Chapter 4 – Local Priorities and Actions……………….(page 17) • Our economic Challenges Local priorities for action: − Enabling a sustainable local Economy − Improving the local Economy − Supporting the local Economy
Appendix 1 – Action Plan for 2011/12……………….....(page 22)
Appendix 2 – Investment Priorities……………………(page 27)
Appendix 3 – Broadband coverage……………………(page 34)
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About this document
The Economy Strategy is one of a suite of delivery plans which underpin the South Hams and West Devon Community Strategy. It sets out how we will work in partnership with the community and voluntary sector and other public sector organisations to improve the economy across South Hams and West Devon over the next four years.
Alongside “Economy”, Homes, Environment and Community Life are priorities for the Community Strategy, all of which have their own individual delivery plans. All partners have made a commitment to work together on these priorities and improve services in the most cost-effective and efficient way to have a positive impact on the quality of life for local people.
This Delivery Plan sets out our priorities for the next four years and specific actions for the next 12 months which are achievable and realistic. The Delivery Plan will be reviewed and updated annually. It sets out the background and context within which we are working, evidence upon which it is based, our priorities for delivery and a detailed action plan. It has been produced in a time of significant change and uncertainty and it recognises the current difficult economic conditions and unprecedented reduction in resources.
ECONOMY:
• Enabling a sustainable local Economy • Improving the local Economy • Supporting the local Economy
We hope you will take the time to read this document. We have tried to make it relevant, interesting and easy to read.
If you would like to know how you can get involved in helping to shape work in the area of Economy in South Hams and West Devon please contact (??) [email protected] , telephone xxxxx xxxxxx
This document is also available on the Councils’ websites www.southhams.gov.uk and www.westdevon.gov.uk
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CHAPTER 1 – BACKGROUND
SHARED SERVICES
This strategy is shared across South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council and represents a significant step in the successful convergence of services across both areas. As neighbouring rural local authorities with similar issues and challenges we have been working together to deliver a number of services in a more cost-effective way. As well as reducing costs this has helped both Councils’ to develop the capacity and the resilience to maintain and improve crucial services. Collaboration commenced in 2007 with the appointment of a shared Chief Executive. All services are now shared under one senior management team.
Wherever possible this plan seeks to maximise opportunities from shared services to deliver efficiencies, be more cost-effective and improve outcomes for local people.
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP
The Community Strategy
There is now one Joint Partnership (JP) bringing together key stakeholders from the community, businesses and voluntary sectors and other public sector organisations. The one partnership approach also increases partners’ capacity and there is real commitment from all stakeholders to work together to address issues of shared concern and improve options for local people.
The Economy Delivery Group for the Economy priority – will include both Councils, community, businesses and voluntary representatives, Dartmoor National Park and other key public sector organisations. The group will work together to develop and deliver the Economy Delivery Plan, enabling effective community engagement and monitoring and reporting on progress.
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How we will work together and make decisions:
Community consultation and representation
Joint Partnership Council Members
Economy Delivery Group Council Decision -Makers
Membership Executive (South Hams) Multi-Agency group including community and Environment and Community Committee (West business representatives and partners Devon)
Role Membership To develop, implement and monitor the Economy District/Borough Council Members Strategy Role To make recommendations to elected Members on To formally adopt the strategy taking into account the Executive (South Hams) and Environment and recommendations from the Economy Strategy Sub- Community Committee (West Devon) Group
Consultation/Feedback Mechanisms To monitor progress on the Economy Strategy Bi-Annual monitoring reports Consultation/Feedback Mechanisms Quarterly monitoring reports
Consultation and Feedback Partnership Working
Links to other strategies and plans
The Community Strategy and delivery plans do not sit in isolation but link to the strategies and plans of partner organisations and communities and other key Council plans. The Priorities identified in the Community Strategy and delivery plans will influence how resources are targeted.
When developing this Delivery Plan we have made regard to the strategies and plans for Health, the Police, Social Care and Voluntary groups. Parish plans developed by our local communities are also used to influence our actions.
The Local Development Frameworks (LDF) for both Councils and Dartmoor National Park provide the frameworks for delivering a spatial strategy for the area. They set out where land for residential and business development should be allocated to meet local needs ensuring that communities remain sustainable with the right infrastructure and facilities to support this development and having due regard to the natural environment.
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CHAPTER 2 – CONTEXT
THE ECONOMY
After several years of prosperity, boom and rising house prices the collapse of financial institutions in 2008 and the subsequent recession have led to difficult economic conditions, recovery is likely to be protracted. In fact the final quarter of 2010 showed a small contraction in the economy, with poor weather in December having a significant impact, particularly affecting service industries and construction.
Key points that will affect growth: • Restricted access to credit for individuals and businesses limiting business growth. • Higher food, fuel and energy costs plus the increase in VAT, low interest rates on savings and falling asset values affecting spending on discretionary items. • Cuts in income following job losses, reduced hours and few pay rises. • The reduction of public sector funding and the consequent effect on jobs and services. Source: South West RDA Economics Review October 2010
The number of Job Seeker Allowance (JSA) claimants reduced within the UK in 2011, but locally recent redundancies in Okehampton have had a significant effect on the local economy which is evident when comparing with the figures for December 2010 (1.7%).1
JSA Claimants- Proportion of Resident Working Age Population
5 4 3.8 4 2.9 2.7 3 2.3 2.3 2.2 Mar-10 1.91.7 1.9 2 Mar-11 1 0
% Working Age Population Age Working % South West Devon South Great Hams Devon West Britain
These economic considerations have influenced our actions for the coming year in order to enable, improve and support the local economy.
Growth in the South West has been muted and given the region’s reliance over the past decade on the public sector more innovative approaches will be needed to stimulate growth in the coming years.
1 www.nomisweb.co.uk
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GOVERNMENT POLICY
Localism and the Big Society
Recent changes in national policy will significantly influence the way we support and work to improve the economy.
The Government has made it clear that it wants local communities to be more involved in issues and decisions that affect their local area. It wants to see people take more of an active role in their communities through volunteering, and supports the idea of co-operatives, mutuals, charities and social enterprises delivering some local services. Government at a national and local level will need to be more transparent and accountable to the electorate.
The Localism Bill aims to devolve greater powers to Councils and neighbourhoods, including giving local communities more control over development and new rights to vote on local issues such as increases in council tax. As part of this Bill, Regional Spatial Strategies have been abolished and the planning system is to be reformed.
Neighbourhood Planning Neighbourhood planning is a radical new right being introduced in the Localism Bill. It will allow communities to create their vision of what their area should look like: where new shops, offices or homes should go. Local people will be able to define types of development which will have automatic planning permission. This is known as a Neighbourhood Development Order. The Government has given businesses the right to initiate Neighbourhood Plans and Neighbourhood Development Orders. This will encourage growth by reducing the need to apply for planning approval in order to develop. Businesses will need to work closely with and win the approval of local communities in order to establish a Neighbourhood Plan or Order.
Neighbourhood plans must be in line with wider ambitions for growth in the council’s development plan. If approved by a local referendum, the neighbourhood plan will need to be adopted by the council. Neighbourhood plans are expected to be implemented in November 2011.
With funding restraints it will be more important than ever for local communities and public sector bodies to work together to find innovative solutions to address economic issues. Over the coming year we will be looking at ways of how this can best be achieved.
Local Growth: realising every places potential- White Paper
In October 2010 the Government published a White Paper setting out its approach to local economic growth by shifting power away from central government to local communities and independent providers for decisions to be made locally. The government will promote efficient and dynamic markets, in particular in the supply of land and provide real and significant incentives for places that go for growth and to support investment in places and people to tackle barriers to growth. The White Paper launched a new ‘Regional Growth Fund’ with a discretionary £1.4bn for competitive bidding, which will operate between 2011-2014 to stimulate growth for all of England by providing support for projects and programmes with significant potential for creating long term private sector led economic growth and employment.
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Local Government Resource Review: In March 2011 the government launched its first phase of Local Government Resource Review which will establish a new system for Business Rates and Government Grant, protecting interests of taxpayers, rewarding local growth and job creation and delivering a more self-sufficient income for councils. The review will look at the best way to allow local authorities to retain their business rates to incentivise growth, whilst ensuring that all have adequate resources to meet the needs of their communities.
Councils will be able to offer local discounts and supplements on business rates, with local businesses having the right to vote on any local increases they do not support.
Growth Review: In March 2011 the Budget and Growth Review set out its ambitious proposals to ensure the planning system does everything possible to support economic growth and sustainable development, helping to re-build Britain’s economy, by combining all national planning policies into one concise, easy to use document called the National Planning Policy Framework (Pro-Growth Policy) by the end of 2011. It will contain the Government’s key economic, social and environmental objectives and planning policies to deliver them. At the heart of the framework will be the presumption in favour of sustainable development. Local authorities can start immediately prioritising growth in the decisions that they take locally. The Government has made clear its expectation that every council should be firmly on the front foot in encouraging and supporting growth. Local authorities should be pressing ahead without delay in preparing up-to-date development plans which set out the opportunities for growth in their areas. Councils must ensure they are not imposing any unnecessary burdens in the way of development. The Government's pro-growth reforms will ensure really powerful economic co-operation between councils. The Localism Bill will place a new Duty to Co-operate on councils to work together to address planning issues that impact beyond local boundaries, such as on transport, housing, or infrastructure (via LEP).
Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP): There is a commitment to ensuring local areas are able to take a lead in developing economic growth through Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). The Government recognise local authorities have a key role to play in supporting local people and businesses by using their community leadership role, planning powers, ensuring a responsive supply of land, and using their own land assets to leverage private funding.
In March 2011 the Heart of the South West LEP was approved, the partnership covers Devon and Somerset and identifies three priorities: (i) job creation, (ii) improving productivity and (iii) raising earnings. In addition, three critical areas are also set out in the LEP prospectus which are: marine technologies, low carbon energy sectors and super fast broadband.
The Government will create 21 new Enterprise zones, within LEPs with simplified planning rules, super-fast broadband and tax breaks for businesses. The Enterprise zones will act as a springboard for private sector growth and wider regeneration.
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OUR TRACK RECORD
Below is a summary of achievements over the past four years.
SHARED ACHIEVEMENTS
• Successful Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) bid of £1.8m for a Local Action Programme called ‘the Greater Dartmoor Local Enterprise Action Fund (GDLEAF) 2007-13, which covers all of West Devon, Dartmoor, parts of Teignbridge and parts of the South Hams. • Supported a range of geographic/thematic business networks including the food & drink sector, Women Do Business and Wheels to Work. Emerging networks supported include renewable energy and rural broadband. • Worked with partners to optimise the delivery of publicly funded skills and employment support through the development of Employment & Skills Boards, in order to respond to the employers agenda for skills support. • Jointly responded to relevant strategic and sub-regional consultations of economic significance such as rural post offices. • Production of joint South Hams and West Devon 'Guide to Help in Difficult Times' booklet
SOUTH HAMS ACHIEVEMENTS WEST DEVON ACHIEVEMENTS
• 90% occupancy of council owned • Completion of the Phase 1 works of the Tamar employment units- consistently high. Valley Mining Heritage Project (TVMHP) £4.2m • Re-establishment of a Post Office at expenditure overall. Townstal, Dartmouth. • Approval from HLF to re-start the TVMHP to • Resisted removal of 35 out of the 47 BT deliver Phase 2 (£2.6m) following the sale of payphones which were earmarked for Morwellham removal in the district (12 had very limited • Approval of the Tavistock Conservation Area usage). Appraisal and Management Plan and formation • 10th anniversary of the Kingsbridge Farmers of the Townscape Heritage Partnership market. • Construction of the environmentally sustainable • A company limited by guarantee was set up award winning Okehampton Business Centre, for the South Hams Farmers Markets which providing 16 units for small businesses'. are now managed by a board of Directors • Tavy Business Centre, Pitts Cleave: Creation of from the private sector. 15 small business workshops and offices to • 80 projects have been supported by South support local newly formed businesses or Devon Coastal LAG, committed over £1.2m businesses currently trading from home. funding to a diverse range of projects and • Secured project delivery employment for four achieved a total project value in excess of West Devon artists. £4.2m up to April 2011. • Ruby Project- partnership formed and delivering • 68 projects have been supported by Greater a full range of businesses support . Dartmoor LEAF, committed over £1.4m and • 130 businesses supported through the REIP achieved a total project value of £4.1m up to Business Improvement and Skills Training project April 2011. run by the West Devon BIP. • Establishment of the Watermark centre in • Increased Tourism marketing for the West Devon Ivybridge area. • Established an area tourism partnership for • 16 West Devon projects have been assisted to South Devon as part of the new regional draw on funds from the Greater Dartmoor Local framework for promoting a successful Action programme. industry-led tourism sector called ‘Visit South • 120 businesses in the Greater Dartmoor LEAF Devon’ area assisted through the Food and Drink • 5-site allocation documents were adopted in Network Project February 2011 and provide a supply of 28 ha • Steering Group formed and plans agreed for a of new employment land for the South Hams Learning Resource Centre on the Old Mill Site in district outside of the Plymouth Urban fringe Okehampton over the next 20 years. • 24 hectares- new employment land allocations in • Langage Energy Centre made operational. LDF .
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CHAPTER 3 – UNDERSTANDING THE ECONOMIC NEEDS
A clear understanding of our local area and economy is essential in the development of the Economy Strategy and the setting of appropriate targets and objectives.
KEY SOURCES OF ECONOMIC NEEDS DATA: • Annual Monitoring Report • Devonomics • ONS demographic, employment and labour market data • Annual Business Inquiry (via Nomis) 2008 • Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2009 • Council Tax Register • Business Survey
WHAT ARE OUR COMMUNITIES TELLING US?
Place Survey
The National Place Survey carried out in 2008, showed that over 90% of respondents were happy with the area as a place to live and over 30% felt they could influence decisions in their area; these are both significantly higher than the national average.
Residents were asked which factors were important to their quality of life and subsequently, which factors most needed improving in their local area. The top five factors for improvement are below: South Hams West Devon Affordable decent housing Activities for teenagers Activities for teenagers Affordable decent housing Public transport Public transport Wage levels and cost of living Traffic congestion Job prospects Job prospects
The results from the Place Survey show that that public feel that job prospects, wage levels and cost of living are important factors which need improving, within West Devon wage levels appeared in the top 10 factors for improvement, clearly highlighting that these are important and relevant issues for the Economy priority.
Consultation
Consultation with key stakeholders helps to provide additional evidence to support the actions in the strategy. This also enables partners and communities to influence and shape the way Economy needs can be met. The table below summarises some of the feedback from our consultation, a summary of priorities from partners and key issues from parish plans.
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Event Summary of key feedback Staff • Infrastructure: broadband, public transport and roads Sessions • Facilitate community connectivity projects with a strategy and business model that can at both be replicated utilising learning from existing schemes (broadband). Councils • Tourism & employment needs to be a priority- despite seasonal nature of the work • Protect, promote & market tourism opportunities taking into account the mix of historical and environmental attractions • Use local suppliers and businesses • Focus on boosting the rural economy rather than just town focus • Focus on supporting business growth rather than just start-ups • Establish what the areas needs (Masterplanning) - and work together to make sure all promoting the same message. Parish • Economy Plans- top • Employment issues • Training emerging • Tourism • Transport and communication • Improve mobile signal Partners • Recreation management (Dartmoor National Park) Priorities • Support local business and tourism (Devon County Council) • Improve knowledge, skills and productivity (Devon County Council) • To maintain our presence within the two market towns of Okehampton and Tavistock whilst increasing our presence in other major settlements throughout the district (West Devon CVS) • Enabling communication and collaboration (South Hams CVS) • To work with businesses and other organisations to use resources wisely (Environment Agency) • To protect and further the interests of all small businesses (Federation of Small Businesses) • To be the largest and most effective lobbying group for small businesses and to provide a safety net of different benefits and services (Federation of Small Businesses) • Support for innovation and knowledge transfer – FE/HE/business (South Devon College) • Employer support for apprenticeships (South Devon College) • Government cash incentives for employers to take on apprentices (South Devon College) • Support for unemployed people for work trails/ retraining (South Devon College) • Better homes, better places, better lives (Devon and Cornwall Housing Trust (TOR Homes) Councillor • Employment Space workshop • Broadband (October • Support private sector 2010) • Buying locally • Press Government – national campaign - Backing Britain • Transport – Wheels 2 Work • (Working with Plymouth CC) • (Lobbying for railway investment) Councillor • Attract new businesses to area workshop • Suitable broadband access (March • Work together to address high costs in rental market 2011) • Businesses located in suitable areas • Encourage local spending • Understand local area’s needs • Support local businesses i.e. friendly challengers • Seed funding • Lobby for better transport links
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PROFILE OF THE LOCAL AREA
South Hams and West Devon are sparsely populated rural areas with an exceptional natural and built environment leading to significant challenges for the development of housing in the area, employment opportunities and access to services. The area attracts a large number of retirees and second home owners pushing up house prices, making them unaffordable for people on local incomes. The area is characterised by several market towns and numerous smaller villages.
THE PLACE
About a third of the South Hams area is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and half of West Devon is situated within Dartmoor National Park and has the largest geographical area of any district in Devon, but has the smallest population. These factors can pose difficulties for businesses in terms of access for importing/exporting and for a suitable employment base.
The location of the nearby urban areas of Plymouth and Exeter have an important influence for both South Hams and West Devon; in addition Torbay has an important influence for South Hams. Access to major link roads (A38 and A30) and in gaining access to a wider workforce pool are essential for the local economy. The ratio of house prices to income for the South Hams is 15 times the average annual income. This is very similar in West Devon where the cost of a house is 13 times more than the average annual income. The lack of affordable housing in the area has a major impact on where people live.
South Hams experiences a significant issue with second homes equating to 9.7% of the housing stock, in some coastal communities the number of second homes accounts for half of the local housing stock. In West Devon the proportion is very small but generally located in specific rural locations.
Due to the rural nature of both areas, broadband coverage is an essential service not only supporting the development of the local economy but also providing access to public services and for community use.
PLACE South Hams West Devon Joint area Area 906 sq km 1,160 sq km 2,066 sq km Households 42,452 24,245 66,697 People per hectare (ha) 0.94 per ha 0.45 per ha Average (mean) House price 2009 £283,420 £223,047 Ratio of house prices to incomes 15x 13x 2009 % of second homes 2009 9.7% 1.4% Dartmoor National Park 19% of South Hams 45% of West Devon - Sites of Special Scientific Interest 63 SSSI 27 SSSI 36 SSSI (SSSI) AONB South Devon AONB Tamar Valley AONB 2 AONB Tamar Valley AONB within boundaries Broadband coverage: Settlements of 100-1,000 who can receive at least 2 Mbps . 61% 65% Note: 2 Mbps is the speed
Government is committed to enabling throughout Britain by 2012 Main towns Totnes, Dartmouth, Tavistock, Okehampton -
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PLACE South Hams West Devon Joint area Ivybridge, Kingsbridge (Local centres: Bere (Local centres: Modbury, Alston, Hatherleigh, Salcombe, South Brent, Lifton & North Tawton) Woolwell, Yealmpton and Stokenham/Chillington Land use 92% green space 97% green space - Special information Lyme Bay Special Area Part of Cornwall and - Conservation West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site Sparsity Rural-80 : districts with at least 80 percent of their population in rural settlements and larger market towns
THE PEOPLE
Approximately a third of the South Hams’ and West Devon’s population live in the main towns, with the majority living in rural areas. Access to services, schools and employment are important issues for the population who live outside the main towns.
PEOPLE South Hams West Devon Joint area Population 83,500 52,700 136,200 (source mid 2009 estimate) Population forecast 2006-2026 9.7% (8081) 17.9% (9173)
% Population by age
18% 16% 14% 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% Under 15 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
South Hams West Devon Joint Area Age
Source: 2009 Mid-Year Estimates. F igures may not add up exactly due to rounding of figures .
Education- Qualifications
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
0% No qualifications NVQ1+ (GCSE D- NVQ2+ (GCSE NVQ3+ (2 or more NVQ4+ G or above) A*-C) A Level) (HND/Degree)
South Hams West Devon
Source: ONS annual population survey 2009
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Approximately 22% of the population in South Hams and West Devon are of retirement age. In addition approximately 16% of the population both in South Hams and West Devon are of or approaching school age. West Devon has a high population growth prediction which will likely impact on the need for economic growth to supply a suitable job market. South Hams’ and West Devon’s qualification rate is quite high therefore there is a need to provide suitable jobs to minimise local people leaving the area.
THE ECONOMY
South Hams has a well balanced economy with a diverse base of very small to medium sized enterprises; the larger businesses tend to locate near Plymouth or the A38. The retail offering of the market towns of Totnes, Dartmouth, Ivybridge and Kingsbridge are all based around small, independent shops. Significant sectors in terms of number of jobs within the South Hams include distribution, retail, hotels and restaurants, public sector, tourism and manufacturing.
West Devon’s economy is made up primarily of low added value sectors such as tourism, agriculture and service industries in a traditional small firm rural economy. In terms of the number of businesses, the largest sector is agriculture, followed by distribution, hotels and restaurants. However, in terms of employment, the largest sectors are education, health and social work, distribution, hotels and restaurants and manufacturing. Within the more rural areas, the proportion of agricultural businesses rise, with significant implications given the rapid change in the nature of agriculture.
The number of Job Seeker Allowance (JSA) Claimants for South Hams and West Devon are quite low in comparison to the rest of the county although recent redundancies in Okehampton (early 2011) have resulted in a significant increase.
Employment opportunities are concentrated in the four main towns for South Hams and concentrated in Tavistock and Okehampton for West Devon.
Many parishes within South Hams and West Devon have identified the following as being top issues as outlined within their parish plans: economy, employment, training, tourism, transport and communication and poor mobile signal.
ECONOMY South Hams West Devon South West National Employment rate 79.6% 71% 78.6% 76.3% (economically active) September 2010 Job density 2008 46,000 (0.9%) 23,000 (0.7%) 0.82% 0.79% ratio of total jobs to population aged 16-64 Self Employed (economically 9,200 (15.4%) 6,500 (19.3%) 10.5% 9% active September 2010)
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Average Earnings: Annual
£25,000 £21,221 £21,221 £20,000 £18,704 £19,571 £18,302 £17,277 £17,737 £14,775 £15,000
£10,000
£5,000
£0 By place of work By residence
South Hams West Devon Devon National
Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2010
Average Earnings: Weekly
£450 £404.30 £404.30 £400 £371.70 £347.20 £345 £350 £327 £328.10 £301.10 £300 £250 £200 £150 £100 £50 £0 By place of work By residence
South Hams West Devon Devon National
Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2010
The graphs above display average earnings broken down by place of work and by residence (weekly and annual earnings). It is clear to see that that those who work in the area earn less than those who reside in the area and work elsewhere. This has a major impact on the local economy in terms of quality of life and also in attracting businesses to the area. Annually there is a difference of £2k-£3k of whether you work or live in the area for both South Hams and West Devon.
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Occupations 35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
r n s c e ng o t at i n tions ealth ct h ishing W u ca & acturi r nce et & & f f st staura ni ra services n e u u re rgy tion tu e Co Manu s & r Other cul En l duca e e gri ot & Comm A h nce & ins n a dmin, a ibutio r Transport st nking, fin blic i a u D B P
Type of Occupation
South Hams West Devon Devon National
Source: Annual Business Inquiry (via Nomis) 2008- extract from Devonomics
The graph above displays the percentage of employment for each type of occupation for South Hams, West Devon, Devon and also the National picture. The graph highlights that the majority of employment for South Hams and West Devon is primarily within (i) distribution hotels and restaurants, (ii) banking finance and insurance and (iii) public admin, education and health.
Employment Premises
1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 Retail Offices Commercial Other Offices Factories Warehouses Other bulk Offices premises
South Hams West Devon Joint Area
Source: Neighbourhood Statistics- Commercial and Industrial Floorspace and Rateable Value Statistics (March 2009)
The graph above provides the number of employment premises with South Hams and West Devon, it highlights that the majority of premises are retail and factories.
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CHAPTER 4 – LOCAL PRIORITIES AND ACTIONS
Our Economic Challenges Local Area: • Ratio of house prices to income for South Hams is 15 times and West Devon 13 times the average income. • 9.7% of housing stock within the South Hams are second homes. • Two thirds of the local population live in rural areas. • Sparsely populated: 0.94 people per hectare (South Hams) and 0.45 people per hectare. • 22% of the population in South Hams and West Devon are of retirement age. • 885 (1.7% South Hams) and 731 (2.3% West Devon) individuals were unemployed and claiming JSA in March 2011.
National/Regional impact: • Reduction in public sector funding- possible multiplier effect • Increases in VAT, National insurance contributions. • Rise in fuel prices, energy costs and food costs. • Transport: travel costs increasing for students & issue of restricting opportunities for employment • Environment Regulations (restrictive) • Climate Change Levy- level playing field for importing/exporting • Carbon Reduction Commitment • Low interest rates. • Restricted access to credit for individuals and businesses limiting business growth
Access/opportunity: • Skills to support business growth (vocational & apprenticeships). • Absence of graduate level jobs • ‘Leaky’ supply chain • Brand for local area (awareness of what is manufactured locally and what is sold locally) • Need for suitable broadband access across all local areas. • Need for management workspaces for micro and small businesses in Totnes, Ivybridge & Tavistock (priority areas as outlined in a report commissioned by Devon County). • Business articulating what they need • Deliver employment land sites as identified in the Site Allocations Development Plans. • Understanding needs of the local economy.
• Role of land based sector
Note: The Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is payable to people under pensionable age who are available for, and actively seeking, work of at least 40 hours a week.
The Economy priority is supported by the following:
1. Enabling a sustainable local Economy 2. Improving the local Economy 3. Supporting the local Economy
This chapter sets out and justifies the areas of work supporting the Economy priority and how we will achieve them. Our action plan at appendix 1 sets out specific actions and target dates for achievement.
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1. ENABLING A SUSTAINABLE LOCAL ECONOMY
It is essential that the local economy is provided with necessary access to sites, premises and also good access to broadband. ‘Enabling a sustainable local Economy’ has been divided into two main areas of work: (1.1) Promoting enterprise, business start-up, development and growth and (1.2) Enabling access to sites, premises and broadband.
1.1 Promoting enterprise, business start-up, development and growth
It is essential to the local economy that new businesses are attracted to the area and those who already reside in the area are encouraged to grow in order to maintain and keep the local economy healthy and attractive for future investment.
The Regional Growth Fund (RGF) has been introduced across England with £1bn made available to stimulate private sector led sustainable economic growth.
Promotion of enterprise is another contributing factor which will help to enable the local economy to grow.
Organisations and agencies have a role to play in providing necessary services, facilities and amenities in local areas. They help to provide a framework for the provision of sustainable development at the local level i.e. offering access to housing, employment, education and other facilities. Economic growth is reliant on what is provided in the local area in order to support its needs to run effectively.
We will continue to provide a suitable framework for the provision of sustainable development in order for local businesses to start- up, be able to grow and for a healthy local economy.
1.2 Enabling access to sites, premises and broadband
New technologies hold the potential to significantly stimulate and support the local economy. Connectivity has an important part to play for businesses, by providing more flexibility, the ability to compete and create the opportunity to be more innovative. Improving connectivity will have a positive impact on increasing chances of growth and productivity in the local economy.
Devon County Council are leading on a bid to BDUK in respect of the improvement of connectivity across the county in partnership with Somerset, under the umbrella of the LEP.
A report commissioned by Devon County Council (DCC) (Low carbon workspace to meet the needs of micro and small businesses in Devon - October 2010, RedC) identified those locations that needed and could support the provision of managed workspace. Sixteen market and coastal towns were subsequently identified and prioritised. Totnes was included in the top four called priority 1 locations, whilst Ivybridge and Tavistock were included in a second list of priority 2 locations.
A subsequent report (Potential for the delivery of work hubs in six Devon Market and Coastal Towns) identified Totnes with the highest level of interest in a work hub. The primary source of enquiries was from creative, digital and media sector businesses
Draft at 23/05/11 18 alongside professional services. Therefore Totnes is being considered by the County Council as a potential location for such a hub.
Adoption of the Site Allocations Development Plan Documents (part of the Local Development Framework) puts in place the basis for employment sites and premises to be progressed at a range of locations in the towns and villages. There is a total of 70 hectares of new employment land identified across the whole South Hams district and 24 hectares in West Devon (principally in Tavistock and Okehampton).
We will need to continually monitor the need for premises and suitable sites within the local area. It will be essential to work together to progress the Site Allocations Development Plan.
Work A flexible workspace offering an ‘office when needed’ service to modern hub: micro businesses and mobile workers, including those that are home- based. Shared facilities available to users usually include bookable desks, formal and informal meeting spaces, high speed broadband and or space- hungry technical equipment. Work hubs provide an environment that facilitates business collaboration and networking. Many offer business advice, serving as an incubator for start-ups and professional skills.
2. IMPROVING THE LOCAL ECONOMY:
It is essential that the local economy is given every opportunity to improve and prosper. ‘Improving the local Economy’ has been divided into two main areas of work: (2.1) Improving productivity through the encouragement of skills, innovation and development and (2.2) Using knowledge to understand the needs of businesses and of the local area.
2.1 Improving productivity through the encouragement of skills, innovation and development
It is essential for our local economy that we promote a culture of innovation. We should learn from others who have succeeded and adapt for our local area.
The rural location of the South Hams and West Devon create difficulties for some businesses to succeed or even survive. Therefore the encouragement of innovation is critical for success in a competing market. Successful businesses will create conditions to increase their productivity but also they will be able to offer opportunities for the local workforce and improve the wealth of the local area.
In South Hams there is a greater focus on large scale strategic sites (Sherford and Langage) associated with the Plymouth sub region, whilst in West Devon there are more significant tourism and heritage projects.
The Greater Dartmoor Local Enterprise Action Fund and also the South Devon Coastal Local Action Group, funded from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), are playing an important role in enabling continued investment in local community regeneration projects. The combined funding package totals £3.6m. The total project value committed to date exceeds £8m and includes a diverse range of projects such as: (i) Northlew Community Broadband, (ii) Dartmoor Pony Visitor/’Education Centre, (iii) Tavistock Business Improvement District, (iv) Bere
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Alston community regeneration hub, (v) Dartmouth Market regeneration project, (vi) The Flavel Centre sustainability project, (vii) Coleridge community bus and (viii) and the Kingsbridge information centre website. Projects that cover both South Hams and West Devon include: (i) Women Do Business and (ii) Wheels to Work.
The environment is another important factor for the local area of South Hams and West Devon with large areas designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or located in the Dartmoor National Park. The unique environment attracts many businesses who rely on landscape for business opportunities, such as tourism. The environment has an important role in quality of life, which also attracts businesses to the local area. Whilst we strive for a thriving economy we must balance this with environmental protection, to ensure businesses and visitors are attracted to the area.
It is important that we provide the necessary support to the local economy but also encourage and promote the benefits of innovation.
2.2 Using knowledge to understand the needs of businesses and of the local area.
Understanding the needs of the local area and of businesses is extremely important. It is essential that the knowledge which is gathered is used to inform and influence key policy and strategy.
Each sector of the local area has a role to play by using the knowledge gathered to shape the service they provide to meet the needs of the local area and businesses.
It is our responsibility to gather and use knowledge on the needs of businesses and of the local area in a proactive way. This is pivotal to the other work areas under the Economy priority.
3. SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY:
The current economic climate presents high risks to the local economy, therefore support is crucial. ‘Supporting the local Economy’ has been divided into two main areas of work: (3.1) providing advice, information and support and (3.2) engaging with all sectors of the local economy.
3.1 Providing advice, information and support
A support network is essential for the local economy whether it is providing useful information, networking, or to the other extreme providing support to businesses and employees in situations where there is a risk of redundancies or even closure.
There are many agencies providing support and advice in the local area and a joined up approach is crucial. Early identification of businesses at risk of failure will enable support to be targeted effectively.
Agencies and organisations such as Area Action Force, Business Link provide information for businesses which outline what procedures need to be followed in relation to starting up or conducting business, they can also act as a signpost to other agencies.
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We will continue to provide the necessary support for the local economy either directly or indirectly. Without this support it will be increasingly difficult for the local economy to grow and be sustainable.
3.2 Engaging with all sectors of the local economy
Engagement is a vital component in understanding the needs of the local area and economy. It is also important to use information and intelligence gathered from engagement to feedback to regional and national partners to influence future service delivery, resources and policy development. Working with the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership will be essential to ensuring local priorities are considered.
It is essential that relationships continue to exist within the local area and economy in order for development and innovation to thrive. We will need to make sure that these relationships continue and communication and engagement is pivotal within our work.
Draft at 23/05/11 21 KEY: Yel low – Shared actions Appendix 1 - Economy Action Plan for 2011/12 Blue – South Hams only actions Green – West Devon only actions
1. ENABLING A SUSTAINABLE LOCAL ECONOMY
(1.1) Promoting enterprise, business start-up, development and growth. Ref Work- Action Target Date Responsible Responsible streams Officer Agencies/ Groups A New Ensure that there is adequate opportunity for new business and expansion of existing 31/03/2012 CT & RB LEP & DCC businesses. B Existing Encourage enterprise and business start up and development through training and skills 31/03/2012 RB BIP provided by BIP. C New Investigate suitable provider for South Hams to supply business support. 31/03/2012 CT SHDC D Existing Promote the local area’s unique environment to attract and retain businesses. 31/03/2012 AR SHDC & WDBC E Influence Influence relevant organisations to introduce fit for purpose regulation of businesses. 31/03/2012 DS FSB F Existing To encourage the formation and development of Social and Community based enterprises. 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & WDBC
(1.2) Enabling access to sites, premises and broadband Ref Work- Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible streams Officer Agencies/ Groups A Existing Support consultations/jellies/workshops to gather evidence of need within DCC identified 31/03/2012 CT DCC priority towns to support future work hub development. B New Creation of work hubs e.g. Totnes. 31/03/2012 CT DCC C Existing Monitor appropriate sites and premises for acquisition or disposal. 31/03/2012 KC SHDC & WDBC D Existing Progress major employment opportunities and community based solutions: 31/03/2012 MP SHDC & • Langage Energy Centre, Dairy Crest, and Noss-on-Dart. WDBC • Opportunity Okehampton E Existing Facilitate ‘next generation broadband’ investment. 31/03/2012 RP DCC/LEP F New Facilitate broadband solutions for rural business and communities. 31/03/2012 RP DCC/LEP G Influence Influence relevant organisations for the improvement of the strategic transport network to 31/03/2012 DCC LEP facilitate business development. H New Work to secure an adequate supply of small business units for growth businesses. 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & WDBC I Existing Work with developers, land agents and businesses to progress sites within the Site 31/03/2012 MP SHDC Draft at 23/05/11 22
(1.2) Enabling access to sites, premises and broadband Ref Work- Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible streams Officer Agencies/ Groups Allocation Development Plan. J Existing Maximise business opportunity in Sherford Sustainable New Community Plan through 31/03/2012 PT SHDC Masterplanning process. K Existing Secure the allocation of additional employment land to serve West Devon in the LDF Core 31/03/2012 JP WDBC Strategy.
2. IMPROVING THE LOCAL ECONOMY
(2.1) Improving productivity through the encouragement of skills, innovation and development. Ref Work- Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible streams Officer Agencies/ Groups A New Encourage innovation and knowledge transfer with local businesses e.g. establishment of a 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & Renewable Energy forum. WDBC B Existing Maximise opportunity for community based projects through: Greater Dartmoor Local 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & Enterprise Action Fund and South Devon Coastal Local Action Group. WDBC C Existing Promote training and skill opportunities that are available. 31/03/2012 CT & RP ESB’s, BIP & colleges D Existing Promote regeneration projects including: 31/03/2012 CT, RP & NT SHDC & • Tavi Town centre BID. WDBC • Mill Road, Okehampton, Ruby Country & Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project. E New Investigate BID opportunities in other towns. 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & WDBC F New Investigate feasibility of developing ‘skills hub’ across South Hams and West Devon based 31/03/2012 CT & RP All on the pilot scheme being developed in Okehampton. G New BIP to support the JCP New Enterprise Allowance scheme in Devon and Cornwall (delivered 31/03/2012 SH & JF BIP & JC+ with a number of other partners)- to help the long term unemployed start a business. H Existing Work with key sectors to support and grow individual local businesses and supply chains 31/03/2012 CT, RP & NT SHDC & including: WDBC • Marine • Renewable Energy • Food & Drink • Tourism I New Work with key bodies to establish how West Devon can compete on a ‘level playing field’ in 31/03/2012 AR LEP order to attract businesses to the area due to the close proximity of Cornwall where EU funding is available.
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(2.2) Using knowledge to understand needs of businesses and of the local area. Ref Work- Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible streams Officer Agencies/ Groups A New Investigate the feasibility to develop an ‘Economic Vision’ for each cluster/town which sets out 31/03/2012 MP SHDC what needs to be provided for the local area i.e. best placed industries/businesses and access to transport, amenities and workforce. B Existing Update Market Town Plans for each cluster/town which sets out what needs to be provided 31/03/2012 RP WDBC for the local area i.e. best placed industries/businesses and access to transport, amenities and workforce. C Influence Influence and work with relevant bodies to consider increasing council tax on second homes 31/03/2012 AR SHDC & and the additional revenue to be obtained by local authority to spent in local area (where WDBC second home is located). D New Carry out provision of an up-to-date Business Survey. 31/03/2012 CT & RP LEP/ DCC & DR E New Employment land demand assessment to be carried out. 31/03/2012 CT & RP LEP/ DCC
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3. SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY
(3.1) Providing advice, information and support Ref New/ Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible Existing Officer Agencies/ Groups A New Update the booklet ‘Your guide to help in difficult times’-detailing range of support available 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & from the council and other sources. WDBC B Existing Respond positively to businesses in need and at risk e.g. recovery plan for Okehampton. 31/03/2012 CT & RP DAAF C Existing Support individuals in need of employment in particular young people. 31/03/2012 JF JC+ D New To investigate the feasibility for establishing a regional funding organisation that could provide 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & credit/loans to allow SME’s to exploit business opportunities. WDBC E New Investigate the feasibility of seed-corn funding for SME’s to access additional finance. 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & WDBC F Existing Continue to provide marketing expertise and financial support to the Dartmoor Partnership. 31/03/2012 NT WDBC G Existing Continue to maximise use of local economic initiative funding. 31/03/2012 RP WDBC H Existing Refine and develop support for Tourism Based businesses across West Devon, including 31/03/2012 NT WDBC through business groups (e.g. Dartmoor Partnership and TAVATA) and Tourist Information Centres.
(3.2) Engaging with all sectors of the local economy. Ref New/ Milestones Target Date Responsible Responsible Existing Officer Agencies/ Groups A New Develop a ‘Business Voice’ for South Hams and one for West Devon which meets at least 31/03/2012 MP SHDC & twice a year. WDBC B Existing Manage the annual Business Forum and assist various business groups and individuals in a 31/03/2012 CT& RP SHDC & consultative process. WDBC C Existing Continue dialogue with District Valuer to assess re-evaluation of business rates to avoid too 31/03/2012 CT& RP SHDC & high an increase. WDBC D Existing Engage with town and parish plans groups to address local economic needs. 31/03/2012 MP SHDC & WDBC E New Take an active role in Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). 31/03/2012 AR SHDC WDBC F New Take an active role in local Delivery Groups (Heart of South West LEP). 31/03/2012 CT & RP SHDC & WDBC
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Key:
Work- streams New Actions identified through Delivery Group. Existing Recognition of strategic, cross cutting actions that have either just commenced or are ongoing and awareness needs to be shared across partnership. Influencing Actions where there is a need to work with regional and national organisations for change to take place. Responsible Officer AR Alan Robinson CT Carol Trant DS David Shepherd JF Joan Farleigh JP Jo Perry KC Kate Cassar MP Marion Playle NT Nadine Trout PT Paul Tyler RB Robert Plumb SH Stewart Horne Responsible Agencies/ Groups BIP Business Information Point Colleges Tavistock College, South Devon College DAAF Devon Area Action Force DCC Devon County Council DR Devon Renaissance ESB’s Employments Skills Board: (i) North & West Devon, (ii) Plymouth and (iii) Torbay & South Devon. FSB Federation of Small Businesses JC+ Job Centre Plus LEP Local Enterprise Partnership SHDC South Hams District Council WDBC West Devon Borough Council
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Appendix 2 – Investment Priorities (from the Devon Investment Plan)
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Appendix 3- Broadband coverage
25 39 2 Mbps
C an't get 2 Mbps
13
24 2 Mbps
C an't get 2 Mbps South Hams
West Devon
Settlements 100-1,000 that cannot get 2Mbps broadband speeds
This map demonstrates groupings of settlements that are either a long distance from an exchange or have a large number of users around one exchange have slower than 2Mbps broadband. As a reminder up to 2Mbps is the speed that the Government is committed to enabling throughout Britain by 2012, following the Digital Britain report. The graphs demonstrate the availability of a decent speed of broadband. In West Devon has the best coverage with 65% over settlements 100-1,000 receiving at least 2Mbps, South Hams, 61% can receive at least 2Mbps. (Source: Sam Knows) Draft at 23/05/11 34
4
2 60 512 Kbps Can't get 512 Kbps
35 512 K bps C an't get 512 K bps South Hams
West Devon
Settlements 100-1,000 that cannot get 512Kbps broadband speeds
The majority of the 146 settlements of 100-1,000 population can receive broadband, if not at the highest speeds. There are only 8 in total that cannot receive broadband at all as recorded by Sam Knows, 2 in West Devon, with four in the South Hams. (Source: Sam Knows)
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The Environment Strategy 2011-2015
Delivery Plan of the South Hams and West Devon Community Strategy Contents
About this Document (page )
Chapter 1 – Background (page ) Shared services Working in partnership Economic Considerations Our track record
Chapter 2 – Sustainable Waste Management (page )
Chapter 3 – Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisation (page )
Chapter 4 – Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment (page )
Chapter 5 – Environmental Issues, Our Priorities and Commitments for Delivery (page )
Glossary (page )
Action Plan for 2011/12 (page ) About this document
The Environment Strategy is one of a suite of delivery plans which underpin the South Hams and West Devon Community Strategy. It sets out how we, as two Councils, will work with the community and voluntary sector and other public sector organisations, to improve and conserve the local environment for the benefit of the people and place of South Hams and West Devon.
Alongside “The Environment”, the Economy, Community Life, and Homes are priorities for the South hams and West Devon Joint Partnership, all of which have their own individual delivery plan. All of our partners have made a commitment to work together on these priorities and improve services in the most cost-effective and efficient way, to have a positive impact on the quality of life for local people.
This Strategy sets out our priorities for the next four years and specific targets we will aim to achieve over the next 12 months. These actions are aspirational, yet realistic. The strategy will be reviewed and updated annually. It sets out the background and context within which the Strategy is based, our priorities for delivery and a detailed action plan. It has been produced in a time of significant change and uncertainty, therefore it reflects the current difficult economic conditions and unprecedented reduction in resources.
Our priorities for the ENVIRONMENT:
- Sustainable Waste Management - Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisations - Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment
We hope you will take the time to read this document. We have tried to make it relevant, interesting and easy to read.
If you would like to know how you can get involved in helping to influence environment services in South Hams and West Devon please contact Ross Kennerley, Landscape and Recreation Manager; [email protected] or 01803 861234.
This document is also available on the Councils’ websites www.southhams.gov.uk and www.westdevon.gov.uk. CHAPTER 1 – BACKGROUND
SHARED SERVICES
This plan is shared across South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council and represents a significant step in the successful convergence of services across both areas. As neighbouring rural local authorities with similar issues and challenges we have been working together to deliver a number of services in a more cost-effective way. As well as reducing costs this has helped both Councils’ to develop the capacity and the resilience to maintain and improve crucial services. Collaboration commenced in 2007 with the appointment of a shared Chief Executive.
Wherever possible this Strategy seeks to maximise opportunities from shared services to deliver efficiencies, be more cost-effective and improve outcomes for local people.
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP
The Community Strategy
There is now one Joint Partnership (JP), which has replaced the two separate Local Strategic Partnerships for the two authorities. The JP brings together key stakeholders from the community and voluntary sectors and other public sector organisations. This joint partnership approach has increased our partners’ capacity by reducing duplication, with a real commitment from all stakeholders to work together to address issues of shared concern and improve the local environment.
How we will work together to make decisions:
Partners working within the Environment Priority include both local authorities, Dartmoor National Park, The Environment Agency, Devon County Council, Natural England, Local Parish and Town Councils, local environmental organisations such as Transition Towns, community groups such as Kingsbridge Agenda 21 Group and voluntary representatives. These groups have committed to working together to deliver the Environment Strategy, through effective community engagement, monitoring and reporting on progress. Community consultation and representation
Joint Partnership Council Members
The Environment Delivery Group Council Decision-Makers
Membership Executive (South Hams) Multi-Agency group including community Environment and Community Committee representatives and partners (West Devon)
Role Membership To develop, implement and monitor the Environment Both sets of Council Members Delivery Plan Role To make recommendations to elected Members on To approve and monitor the Environment Delivery Executive (South Hams) and Environment and Plan Community Committee (West Devon) To formally adopt the Plan taking into account Consultation/Feedback Mechanisms recommendations from the Environment Delivery Bi-Annual monitoring reports Group
Consultation/Feedback Mechanisms Quarterly monitoring reports
Consultation and Feedback Partnership Working
Links to other strategies and plans
The Community Strategy and Delivery Plans do not sit in isolation but link to the strategies and plans of partner organisations and communities and other key Council plans. These will influence how resources are targeted.
When developing this Strategy we have had regard to the strategies and plans for Health, the Police, Social Care and Voluntary groups. Parish plans developed by our local communities are also used to influence our actions.
The Local Development Frameworks (LDF) for both Councils and for Dartmoor National Park, provide the foundations for delivering a spatial strategy for the area. They set out where land for residential and business development should be allocated to meet local needs, whilst ensuring that communities remain sustainable with the right infrastructure and facilities to support this development, with due regard to the natural environment. Our Partner’s priorities for the Environment: A
W Biodiversity is o
r improved and l d
To see a thriving agricultural and land fish stocks are C l
management industry, which protects a managed s
soils, water and air and makes a s sustainably for
E the benefit of
positive contribution to reducing and n
adapting to climate change. v wildlife and i r Promote green travel, improve o people. n
Recreation management roads and reduce congestion m T
e Reduce waste, improve o n
r
t recycling and reduce landfill e
d ENVIRONMENT u
c Climate change and sustainability e
c
l Public Rights of Way (PROW) and access
i becoming a more m
a environmentally responsible t e S organisation. c u Enough good quality water for people h s a To proactively reduce risk, t n
a and the environment
g to save life, protect i e property and the n Flood risk and coastal erosion are effectively managed and a a
n environment from fire and
b people and property are better prepared and protected. d
other emergencies. l
e i t s
f
c a o r n m s e i q n u g e
n c e s .
Economic Considerations
The local economy impacts on how we can deliver all of our services and therefore we need to consider this when developing our Plans.
The recent economic crisis has resulted in the UK having a national public sector debt of £952.8bn or 64.8% of GDP1. Austerity measures have been introduced to tackle the debt, including reducing public sector funding. With the reduction in the money available for public sector contribution to the environment agenda in general, there is a risk that there will be limited progress on environmental issues in the coming years.
However there is a flip side, where households and businesses will tend to become more efficient to limit expenditure on fuel and utility bills. The Government have also committed to being the ‘greenest government ever’, with the renewable energy and the clean technology sector seen as ‘essential’ and ‘vital’ for future global competitiveness. This was evidenced in
1 www.ons.gov.uk (25 Oct 2010) the increase in spending for science compared to most other sectors following the Comprehensive Spending Review.2
These economic considerations have influenced our actions for the coming year. We will continue to monitor key information and trends on a regular basis to enable us to respond quickly and proactively to changes as they occur.
OUR TRACK RECORD
Up until now South Hams and West Devon have worked separately in many areas of the Environment. From April 2011 we will start to develop a shared Recycling and Refuse Service and also shared Natural Environment and Conservation teams to join our shared Environmental Health team. Through these teams, and under this Strategy, the policies and strategies that underpin our work in the Environment will be joined-up and refined.
Below is a summary of our achievements over the past four years. Detailed information on progress against the targets set out in previous strategies is available on request or through the Councils’ websites. SOUTH HAMS ACHIEVEMENTS WEST DEVON ACHIEVEMENTS Working with partners to map the green Assessing air quality in West Devon with no Air infrastructure within the South Hams. Quality Management Zones needing to be Developing a partnership with the Woodland declared. Trust to plant over 62,000 trees in West Funding a 4 year programme of survey work by South Hams. the Devon Biodiversity Records Centre, where Provided capital investment and worked with 43 potential County Wildlife Sites (CWS) were the community to attract Lottery and other surveyed, and 21 new CWS were designated. funds amounting to £3.5m to significantly Monitoring and management advice is now improve parks and open spaces. taking place to increase the percentage of sites The AONB Unit has run events and in positive management. campaigns involving over 16,000 people to Abiding by our Biodiversity Duty by mark their 50th anniversary year. implementing an action plan and incorporating Producing guidance notes for improving biodiversity in all of our functions. public rights of way in partnership with Devon Enabling and part-funding the Tamar Estuaries County Council and Dartmoor National Park Consultative Forum. in response to demand from Community Improving education and publicity which Groups and Parish Plans. increased participation in our recycling Achieving external grants, for example services. £38,000 from Defra to support the local work Implementing a new waste and recycling of the Slapton Line Partnership service that has seen West Devon’s recycling Managing roadshows to connect to over rate improve to at least 50% 15,000 residents to publicise and educate Composting of street sweepings for use as waste and recycling initiatives. farm compost by local farms Consistently high recycling rates, with 57% of Enabling rurally isolated villages to have waste recycled in 2009/2010, 6th highest in garden waste collected beyond normal England and the best rates in Devon. collection rounds. Saving over 15,000 tonnes of CO2 released Reducing carbon emissions in our from recycling and composting household Okehampton Customer Service Centre by over waste in 2008- 2009. 15,000kg by installing new renewable energy Achieving our target of reducing 20% of our technology. CO2 emissions from the Council by 2011. Reducing CO2 emissions from our leisure Enabling only 341kg of household waste to centres from 6% be sent to landfill (2nd lowest in the country). Opportunity Okehampton, a business centre commissioned and managed by WDBC has won several awards for energy efficiency.
2 £4.6bn / yr of spending review period set aside to invest in science and research. Consultation:
To help develop this Delivery Plan, we have involved our Partners, community groups, staff and elected Members, to gain a better understanding of the issues facing our environment over the next few years, and how we can work together to address those issues.
Event Summary Staff sessions To understand the work that we are already doing or planning within the environment theme. The outcome of these sessions helped to shape our priorities under the Environment Priority. Environment Delivery Group A workshop with our Partners and some local community groups to discuss the issues facing the natural and human environment, and to start discussions around partnership actions to reduce duplication and improve the environment. Member sessions To focus our work on key areas of priority to our Members and their local communities. These sessions resulted in a number of actions being included around renewable energy and composting. Chapter 2 Sustainable Waste Management
UK Waste Policy
Each year in the UK, we generate over 80million tonnes of waste from households, commerce and industry. To help tackle the problems our large amount of waste can cause, the Government is aiming for the UK to be a ‘zero waste’ economy. Measures to achieve this were outlined in Defra’s Structural Reform Plan, where a thorough review of waste policies has been promised by the end of 2011.3
Most waste policy in the UK is governed by the EU Waste Framework Directive which is the overarching legislation for the whole waste cycle- collection, transport, recovery and disposal. The Directive introduced the waste hierarchy (Figure. 1), where all EU Member States have to firstly encourage the reduction of waste, secondly encourage the re-use of waste that might otherwise be landfilled, thirdly recycle where possible or recover energy from waste, and finally dispose the waste if no other option is viable. The waste hierarchy has been adopted by South Hams and West Devon within our Waste Management Polices, and is reflected in our Environment Action Plan (1.1).
Figure 1. The top of the hierarchy is waste prevention (the most important) and at the bottom, safe disposal (as the least preferred option). The hierarchy is sometimes shortened to the 3Rs (reduce, reuse & recycle)4
Another key EU Directive is the Landfill Directive. This Directive sets demanding targets to reduce the amount of biodegradable waste sent to landfill. Biodegradable waste in landfill produces methane, a strong greenhouse gas.
Table 1. EU Landfill Directive targets for the reduction of biodegradable waste to landfill: By 2010, 75% of the landfill produced in 1995 By 2013, 50% of the landfill produced in 1995 By 2020, 35% of the landfill produced in 1995
The Landfill Allowances Trading Scheme helps the UK meet these targets. Landfill site operators are responsible for paying landfill tax, however these operators pass on the costs to businesses and councils. The standard rate for 2010-2011 was £48 per tonne (this increases
3 DEFRA Structural Review Plan Nov 2010: http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/about/what/documents/defra-businessplan- 101108.pdf 4 http://www.recycledevon.org/kidszone/secondary/what-happens-to-our-waste/index.php Feb 2011 by £8/yr until April 2013).5 To keep the cost to the taxpayers down, local councils implement the waste hierarchy, namely through providing appropriate recycling schemes and facilities.
To drive forward the UK’s aim to be a zero waste economy, Defra have recently published the ‘Anaerobic Digestion Framework’ that aims to encourage a substantial increase in our energy from waste, which will create more ‘green’ jobs within AD plants and the supply chain.
There are four key drivers for the increased use of Anaerobic Digestors (AD):
Climate change- AD reduces greenhouse gas emissions from manure and waste, and is a renewable source of energy. Renewable Energy without significant adverse land-use change- by using of waste feedstocks for biogas production. Biogas can be used to produce heat or electricity or cleaned to make biomethane. Diverting waste from landfill. Creating sustainable sources of critical resources such as phosphorus- the digestate from AD is a valuable source of fertilisers.
The waste problem in the South West
Just over 2.8 million tonnes of municipal waste (collected by local authorities, mainly domestic in nature) was collected in the South West during 2008/2009; 10% of the English total of 27.3 million tonnes6. This amount was 3.6% (105,000 tonnes) less than in 2006/2007. Although this demonstrates a continued decline from the 2004/2005 peak of almost 3 million tonnes, the total amount of municipal waste collected in 08/09 was still 5.6% more than in 2000/2001 (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Municipal Waste Arising in the South West between 2000/01 - 2008/097
The long-term sustainable management of waste represents an ongoing and significant challenge for the region. Landfill remains the principal method of waste disposal in the South West, as it is in England. We are seeing positive trends towards a reduction in the amount of
5 www.netregs.gov.uk 6 Defra, 2009 7 South West Observatory Environment Module/Environment Agency 2011 waste that we produce and the proportion that we reuse or recycle, however, at the present rate of input the region only has seven years of landfill life left (2008).
The Devon Municipal Waste Strategy
This Strategy was produced in 2004, by all the local authorities in Devon who have a responsibility for waste. District/ Borough and City Councils are responsible for waste collection and Devon County Council is the Waste Disposal Authority. The Environment Agency is the regulator responsible for environmental protection and licensing and inspection of waste management facilities. It is hoped that by working together Devon authorities can go further in achieving national targets set by European Waste Directives (Table 1.).
In 2003/04 West Devon was the top local authority in Devon for recycling with rates of 32%. In the same year South Hams recycled just 25%. In the space of seven years the South Hams’ rate has more than doubled to 57% (2009/2010)- becoming the best recycling authority in Devon and one of the best in the Country. Although recycling has not increased on the same scale in West Devon, in 2010 the Council successfully implemented a new waste collection system, and this has already seen the recycling rate rise significantly in 2010 to at least 50% (latest figures).
Waste Disposal
Although recycling has improved so that less waste is going to landfill, as an area, Devon still needs to look at new options for disposing our non-recyclable waste. Plymouth City Council, Devon County Council and Torbay Council, have joined together as the South West Devon Waste Partnership8 (SWDWP) to work on this issue. It has been estimated that we are producing 200,000 tonnes per year over our landfill targets in Devon. To avoid the financial penalties, which could affect council tax bills, and to address environmental concerns the SWDWP has been working on a number of new disposal options.
Energy from Waste has been chosen as the best solution for waste disposal in the South West. ‘Energy from Waste’ is a clean, reliable technology that is in use across the UK and throughout Europe. One of the biggest benefits is that it also generates electricity and heat. The electricity can either be sold back into the national grid or like the heat, sold on to others to offset running costs. This means that customers using the energy won’t need to use fossil fuels, which is better for the environment.
8 http://www.plymouth.gov.uk/swdwp.html Chapter 3 Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisations
Carbon Emissions
The UK has committed to observing the Kyoto Protocol (an international agreement linked to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) and through the Climate Change Act 2008, the Department for Energy and Climate Change has set legally binding emission reduction targets:
By 2020 a reduction of 34 % greenhouse gas emissions; By 2050 a reduction of at least 80 % in greenhouse gas emissions
compared to 1990 levels.
The Energy Bill 2010 includes measures on the Green Deal, which aims to see energy efficiency measures supplied to all homes at no upfront costs. It is proposed that the work to upgrade the property to become energy efficient, will be paid back from the saving on energy bills. Not only will this new Green Deal benefit homeowners, but it is also expected to increase employment, for example in insulation alone the number of people employed in the sector cold increase from 27,000 to 100,000 by 2015, expecting to peak at 250,000 in the next decade.9 You can find out more about our work improving the energy efficiency of housing within our Homes Strategy.
Renewable Energy
The EU Renewable Energy Directive asks for Member states to develop an action plan to reach 15% renewable electricity (RE) generation by 2020; this will be an eight-fold increase for the UK. Currently the main mechanism for supporting the UK’s growth in renewable energy supply is the Renewables Obligation (RO). The RO works by placing an obligation on electricity suppliers to source a specified and annually increasing proportion of their electricity sales from renewable sources, or pay a monthly penalty. Since its introduction in 2002, it has tripled the level of renewable electricity in the UK from 1.8% to 6.64% (2010 figures). Table 2. Renewable Energy Technologies in the UK Renewable Energy Generation in the UK Hydroelectric The UK currently generates 1.3% of electricity from hydroelectric schemes, mainly from large scale sites in the Scottish Highlands. This renewable source is not likely to be developed further on a large scale due to environmental concerns and as the best sites have already been developed. Wind In 2007 wind energy over took hydropower as the largest RE source in the UK. There are currently 13 offshore wind farms, with a total of 436 turbines. The UK is identified as the best market for offshore wind in the world. Currently there are no offshore turbines in the South West, however Cornwall has 9 onshore wind farms. Wave and Tidal The UK is currently seen as a world leader in developing wave and tidal renewable technologies. Research has suggested that wave and tidal power could meet 10-15% of our current electricity demand.
9 DECC Website Dec 2010 http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/news/pn10_125/pn10_125.aspx Although this technology is not yet at a commercial stage, the South West is leading in this research, for example the Wave Hub facility, currently being tested in Cornwall. Geothermal Geothermal RE refers to different types of thermal energy stored within the earth. There are two forms of Geothermal RE. Ground Source Heat Pumps that make use of heat found in shallow depths of the earth’s crust, in the UK 5,000 pumps are installed in homes every year. Deep Geothermal power is heat from deep in the earth’s interior that has risen close to the surface. A study has shown that Devon and Cornwall’s geology is likely to be most suitable for exploring geothermal power plants. Micro Generation This includes solar, small turbines, heat pumps and biomass. A typical home PV (solar panels) system can produce 50% of the average household electricity, saving 1200kg of CO2/yr and 30 tonnes over a life time. With rising oil and gas prices, more homes and businesses in the UK are interested in producing their own renewable energy through micro-generation.
Feed-in Tariffs
The Energy Act 2008 introduced feed-in tariffs to encourage small scale low carbon electricity generation. These work alongside the RO (as incentives for larger scale generation).10 The scheme went live in April 2010 and is available through licensed electricity suppliers, who pay tariffs to generators of low carbon / renewable electricity. This makes micro-generation more economically viable for householders and communities. By Nov 2010, 15,468 installations had registered to take part in the scheme. The South West has 2,246 registered installations, 85% of these being Solar PV.11
Feed-in tariffs can now be utilised by local authorities who can install renewable technologies on public assets and benefit from a minimum payment for all electricity generated from the system, as well as a separate payment for the electricity exported to the grid. This is in addition to the savings on fuel bills.12
The Environmental Sustainability of our Local Area
Carbon Emmissions
As rural areas, carbon emmissions from South Hams (10.1 tonnes per Captia) and West Devon (10.9 tonnes per Capita) are high in comparison to the neighbouring urban centres of Torbay (5 tonnes per Capita) and Plymouth (5.5 tonnes per Capita) (2008 figures). Major factors contributing to higher emissions are the greater distances travelled to work, and to access services and high levels of emissions from agriculture. In rural locations travel by car to access employment and essential services is often the only option.
South Hams District Council has a Carbon Management Plan that has set a target of a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions from the Council’s operations by April 2011 (from April 2008 levels). It was estimated that a 20% reduction in emissions could save the council £450,000.
Table 3. South Hams District Council Carbon emissions from Council operations (NI185 submission 2010)
CO2 Emissions (kg) Percentage change
10 Introducing the Feed-in Tariff Scheme OfGem 2010 11 Feed-in Tariff Update Newsletter Issue 2 Dec 2010 OfGem 12 Making Feed-in Tariffs Work for You- a Toolkit for Local Authorities. The Energy Saving Trust 2010. 2008/09 4,780,048 2009/10 3,203,081 -33%
Table 3 demonstrates that the 20% reduction target was exceeded in 09/10. This was achieved through a number of key investment projects namely vehicle replacements and improvements to the principal buildings, as well as improving carbon awareness of all staff.
In West Devon, the Council is making good progress in reducing emissions; during 2009 the Council’s Okehampton Business Centre reduced emissions by over 15 tonnes by installing Solar PV Panels and a wind turbine. At the main Kilworthy Park site, the installation of Solar PV Panels has contributed a further 3.8 tonnes per year saved. The Leisure Centres, the Council’s biggest consumers of energy, reduced consumption by 6% in 2009/10, in part thanks to the installation of a more energy efficient boiler at Meadowlands in Tavistock.
Renewable Energy
Local targets for renewable electricity generation and heat capacity in the South West of England for 2020 are based on the national 15% renewable energy target . Regen South West estimates that to meet this, renewable electricity and heat generation in the region must reach 20 GWh by 2020. Currently the South West has 171.59 MW of onshore renewable electricity, and 68.03 MW of renewable heat, far short of the 2020 target.
Only a small amount of energy in the South Hams and West Devon is generated from renewable sources. Over recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of new projects and outputs across the region. The South Hams now has the most projects in Devon generating renewable electricity. Although West Devon has fewer projects, the electricity generated from these projects is greater, by over 2MW. The majority of this energy is from small-scale hydropower facilities. Table 4. renewable electricity and heat generation by micro-generation projects in South Hams and West Devon (RegenSW 2010). Renewable electricity Renewable heat Projects MW Projects MW South Hams 52 1.47 104 1.87 West Devon 24 3.76 74 1.62
Unlike West Devon Borough Council, South Hams District Council currently has no renewable installations. Late in 2010 South Hams Member’s agreed to commission a feasibility study into installing renewable fittings to Council owned assets including Follaton House and the Depots. A separate study is also being conducted into the energy efficiency and potential for renewable installations at the Council-owned leisure centres within the main towns. The results of these studies will be reported during the updates to this Strategy. Chapter 4 Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment
The Natural Environment
The natural environment underpins our economic prosperity, our health and our well being. Protecting the environment and enhancing biodiversity is one of Defra’s top three priorities. This is in line with the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), of which the UK is a signatory. One of the goals is to ensure environmental sustainability, including reducing biodiversity loss and securing environmental resources, this is recognised as positively influencing our health.
Over the past 30 years there have been significant reductions in the levels of environmental pollution and degradation in areas such as air and water partly through the regulatory and management activity of Environmental Health services. Alongside this many of our most precious species and habitats are now protected through various designations, from Local Nature Reserves to European Special Areas of Conservation and World Heritage Sites.
There are currently 224 National Nature Reserves in England and one Marine Nature Reserve at Lundy covering a total area of 94,400 hectares (or 0.6% of the country's land surface). The largest is the Wash Reserve in East Anglia (8,800 hectares) and the smallest Horn Park Quarry in Dorset (0.32 hectares). Natural England manages two-thirds of Nature Reserves with one-third managed by other bodies such as the National Trust, the Forestry Commission, RSPB, local authorities and Wildlife Trusts.
However as populations continue to increase; we are putting more and more pressure on our environment. To ensure the environment continues to give us valuable services that underpin our economic, social and personal well being; such as a salt marsh protecting a coastal village from flooding; Defra is promoting an ‘ecosystem approach’ to decision making.
An Ecosystems Approach= a framework for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way.13
One of the key elements of an ecosystems approach is valuing the services that ecosystems provide; for example if every household in England were provided with good access to quality green space it could save the NHS an estimated £2.1bn/yr.14
In Spring 2011, the government will publish their Natural Environment White Paper. It is proposed that this White Paper will embrace the Ecosystem Approach and change the way we all think about and manage the natural environment. In July 2010, a consultation was launched that stated the White Paper will give Councils and communities freedom to take control and find innovative new ways to protect and enhance the natural environment. It will also advocate for integrated cross-boundary management of the environment- encouraging a landscape-scale approach.
The natural beauty of South West Devon
Defra’s acknowledgement that the natural environment underpins our economic prosperity, our health and our well being, is no where truer than in South West Devon; where tourism is
13 Convention on Biological Diversity 14 http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/policy/natural-environ/documents/narrative.pdf one of our main employers, the health of the population is generally better than England overall15 and access to the countryside is very important to our residents16.
The natural environment of South West Devon is renowned for being high quality. The natural assets from the landscape, the ecology, to the cultural and built heritage of the area, is what makes the South Hams and West Devon desirable places to live and work. It is our priority to protect and where necessary enhance these key features of our local environment for the benefit of all who live, work and visit the area.
Table 5. South West Devon Profile of the Natural Environment17 Detail Designation South West Shared/Joint Hams Devon National Park 19% 45% 64% Areas of Outstanding 354km2 91km2 445km Natural Beauty Special Areas of 4 (+2 4 3 SACs are Conservation offshore shared (Dartmoor, candidate South Dartmoor SACs) Woods and Plymouth Sound and Estuaries Complex) Special Protection Areas 1 1 1 (Tamar Estuaries Complex) Sites of Special Scientific 27 36 64, with 3 shared Interest County Wildlife Sites and Nearly Nearly ~600 sites County Geological Sites 300 300 National Nature Reserve 2 2 4 Areas of great landscape 224km2 71.6km2 295.6km value Heritage Coast 200km2 n/a Local Nature Reserves 1 4 5
Table 5 demonstrates the rich natural environment of the local areas with significant areas of the district and borough protected in one way or another. Despite the number of designations and the protected status of much of the local environment, this does not mean that the features, ecosystems and species are not under threat. These threats can be from natural processes, such as erosion and sea level rise at Slapton Ley, or from human impacts, such as recreational disturbance within our estuaries. The high quality of the local natural environment relies on the conservation of the key sites identified in table five – alongside the conservation of the general landscape in which these sites sit. They cannot be conserved in isolation.
15 Health Profiles for South Hams 2010 and West Devon 2010 (Department of Health and APH) 16 ‘Important things that make somewhere a good place to live’ – Access to Nature (4th SHDC, 5th WDBC) in Place Survey 2008 17 Annual Monitoring Reports 2010 for SHDC and WDBC The Slapton Line Partnership Slapton Sands is located in the South Devon AONB on Devon’s most southerly peninsula facing eastwards into Start Bay and the English Channel. The ‘Line’ is a shingle barrier beach dividing the largest natural freshwater lake in South West England from the sea. The shingle barrier carries the main arterial road. This road, the coastal village of Torcross and a number of car parks along the length of the Line are threatened by long term erosion by the sea. The Slapton Line Partnership was formed in 2001 to co-ordinate the future management of the Line following a storm that caused the road to close for 3 months. A scheme of ‘managed realignment’ is being implemented which will see the Line, with the road, disappear in 30-50 years time. The Slapton Line Partnership, of public bodies such as SHDC, Devon County Council and the Environment Agency alongside the SDAONB, landowners and local parish councillors, aids the local communities and businesses affected to adapt to the changes that will inevitably happen. The Partnership has been successful in gaining £245,000 of Defra funding to assist with this work. http://www.slaptonline.org/
As public sector organisations, we need to work together to ensure this special environment is preserved for future generations. Where it is failing, due to a variety of pressures on the local environment, that work is done to protect it through our Environmental Health services; or enhance the area, through our Conservation and Green Spaces Teams; ensuring it can sustain those special ecosystems or features that our local communities and businesses enjoy and rely on for well-being.
A large proportion of the local area is designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). AONB is the statutory designation applied to 49 of the finest landscapes of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Tamar Valley AONB and the South Devon AONB both have comprehensive Management Plans to coordinate the protection and enhancement of these ‘special’ landscapes. Both Councils and our partners help to deliver and develop these plans, and they form a key part of this Strategy.
Biodiversity
Biodiversity Local plays authorities an important in England role in andtackling Wales climate have change, a key e.g.role carbonto play sinks, in the natural conservation floodplains; of biodiversity is an indicator and this of theis now wider recognised health of our and environment; formalised within the Natural Environment and Rural helps Communities to sustain local(NERC) economies Act 2006, through where: creation of jobs in the conservation, agriculture, forestry, food and tourism sectors; “Every public body must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent supportswith the other proper vital exercisenatural (ecosystem) of those functions, functions to- e.g. the provision purpose of of clean conserving air and water,biodiversity” natural. DEFRA: Guidance for Local Authorities on Implementing the Biodiversity Duty (2007)
The main functions undertaken by Councils where biodiversity can be taken into account are: - Local policies and strategies; - Administering the planning system through forward planning and development management; - Management of Council owned land and buildings; - Education, advice and awareness; - Procurement.
Both Councils have agreements with the Devon Biodiversity Records Centre over data sharing for protected species and sites. In West Devon this also provides information to ensure planning applications can be checked to ensure they do not impact upon sites where legally protected (2000 sites in WD) and rare species (900 sites in WD) have been recorded.
Public Open Space
Public spaces provide many benefits to the communities that use them, whether they are sports pitches, gardens, play parks, allotments or just greenspace that allows for a bench or a flower bed.
South Hams and West Devon both benefit from extensive, high quality, Public Space. In South Hams the District Council owns a number of Public Spaces (although the majority are still community or privately owned). In acknowledging the overall importance of these sites in council and other ownership (see Table 6 below) the district has adopted a Public Space Strategy in accordance with government guidance. West Devon benefits from a similar range of public space but with the Borough Council being a less significant owner. In both areas there is a clear role for the Councils to actively support and promote public space management through their roles as landowner and planning authority and through community development work.
Table 6. South Hams District Council's public space ownership statistics, based on 2003 population statistics of 81,800.
Total 10390 127.01
Through consultation events in the development of the Public Open Space Strategy, South Hams residents made it clear that they aspire to have quality public space in the district. High quality public space supports social, economic and community vibrancy. On its own the District and Borough Councils have a limited ability to deliver quality public space, with tight resources. We have acknowledged that we need to work with organisations and local communities both within and outside the area to continue to deliver the improvements that our local people expect.
Built Heritage
The archaeological or historical heritage of the area is of immense value and contributes much towards the distinct character and quality of the local towns, villages and countryside to the benefit of the local environment. However, these features are irreplaceable and vulnerable to the threat of change; effective protection of the historic environment is vital.
There are around 2,400 listed buildings in West Devon, excluding Dartmoor National Park. Of these, four are on the English Heritage ‘At-risk’ register, indicating that they are of poor or very bad state. In South Hams there are 3,462 listed buildings with five buildings on the ‘at- risk’ register.
Historic areas are now extensively recognised for the contribution they make to our cultural inheritance, economic well-being and quality of life. There is undoubtedly firm public support for the conservation and enhancement of areas of architectural and historic interest and for the recognition of such areas.
Government policy imposes a duty on Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) (districts and boroughs) to designate Conservation Areas that are ‘areas of special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance’.
Following designation, LPAs have a duty to pay special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of Conservation Areas.
Table 7. Conservation Areas within South Hams and West Devon Designated Conservation Areas South Hams West Devon Ashprington Bere Alston Berry Pomeroy Eworthy Cornworthy Exbourne Ermington Germansweek Modbury Hatherleigh Newton Ferrers Lamerton Noss Mayo Lifton Salcombe Northlew Stoke Fleming North Tawton Stoke Gabriel Milton Abbot Strete Bondleigh Totnes Okehampton Tuckenhay Stowford Yealmpton Tavistock/Bere Alston Railway Bratton Clovelly Tavistock x 3 Weir Quay Bere Ferrers Whitchurch Bridestowe Broadwoodkelly Buckland Monachorum Bere Ferrers The Local Development Framework Policy Framework provides the strategic protection for areas of heritage importance and Development Management policies ensure that listed buildings and conservation areas are preserved.
The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site
The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape was added to the exclusive international list of World Heritage Sites (WHS) on 13th July 2006.
The substantial mining remains from the 18th and 19th Century are a testimony to the contribution Cornwall and West Devon made to the Industrial Revolution in the rest of Britain and to the fundamental influence the area had on the mining world at large. Tavistock is the eastern gateway of the entire WHS, with the town centre standing as a monument to the wealth generated for the Bedford estate from the copper and other ores mined locally. Whilst the grand buildings erected on the back of mining riches are very evident, there are significant remaining industrial buildings and an underground legacy that remains relatively uncharted within the Site.
Morwellham Quay is a unique industrial port complex with a tremendous depth and range of heritage interest. In May 2008 Morwellham became one of 3 Key Centres for the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape WHS. http://www.morwellham-quay.co.uk/
With an evolving Government policy in all areas of our Community Strategy, any significant changes to the national policy framework governing each of the priority areas, for example the publication of the Natural Environment White Paper will be covered in our annual updates to each Delivery Plan. CHAPTER 5 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES, OUR PRIORITIES AND COMMITMENTS FOR DELIVERY
This chapter sets out the key issues affecting our local environment and the priorities and commitments we have made to the local environment and our communities. This will guide our work to deliver improvements in a cost-effective way.
OUR PRIORITIES FOR ACTION
From the local evidence base and the feedback from our partners, community and voluntary groups, staff and Councillors, we have identified three priorities for action: Sustainable Waste Management Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisations Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment
Within each of these priorities there are a number of issues to address and commitments we have made as a Partnership on how we will work together to tackle these issues for the benefit of all. To demonstrate how we are going to meet these commitments we have developed an aspirational, accountable and achievable action plan to deliver improvements from year one (page 25).
Environmental issues in South Hams and West Devon
By tackling key national issues around biodiversity degradation, renewable energy generation and waste management in a coordinated holistic way on a local scale, we will begin to make a real difference to the people and place of South West Devon.
To help shape this Strategy, key public sector partners and community groups within South Hams and West Devon met to discuss the local environment and what we could do to improve it. The following were identified as the key issues we should be tackling through our Partnership:
In a WORD CLOUD please JASON:
Biodiversity Marine biodiversity Dog mess Energy Coastal change Landscape character Green and blue infrastructure Pollution Travel/transport Resources/efficiency Behaviour change Recycling/waste the 3R’s Competing needs Expectation Leisure use Community food production Food security Decision makers Education / Awareness Resilience Adaptation to climate change Extreme weather Land-use change Economy / money Social Consequences Employment Tourism Urban Environment Water Management A functioning sustainable community Responsibility and Rights
Our priority areas for action:
1. Sustainable Waste Management
Our key issues: - The large amount of domestic waste being produced (5.6% more than in 2000/01) - Improving recycling rates in West Devon and further improving them in South Hams, in a tighter economical scenario. - Landfill space is running out, and will be used up in 4 years - Alternative solutions to landfill, Energy from Waste plants.
Our Partnership Commitments: 1.1 We will work to reduce, re-use and recycle more waste for and with our communities. 1.2 We will work to improve the sustainability of our waste management 1.3 We will work with our ensure sustainable waste disposal
2. Environmentally Sustainable Communities and Organisations
Our key issues: - Changes to our climate - The need support our vulnerable communities to adapt to changes in our climate - Rising oil and gas commodity prices - Rurality of area requires a certain dependence on fossil fuels - National targets to improve renewable energy production - The potential of our local area and our organisations to produce energy from renewable sources
Our Partnership Commitments: 2.1 We will work together to become greener and more efficient organisations 2.2 We will encourage and enable through the planning process, renewable energy generation where appropriate in our local area. 2.3 We will support communities to adapt and mitigate the effects of changes in our climate. 2.4 We will work with our communities to develop sustainable initiatives within local communities. 3. Conserving and Enhancing the Built and Natural Environment
Our key issues: - Acknowledging the value of a quality local natural environment and the services this environment provides to local people, visitors and businesses. - Changes to our climate degrading local sites and impacting on biodiversity - Finding the appropriate balance between economic growth, housing growth and conserving and enhancing the built and natural environment - Having the resources to maintain quality public open spaces - Human interference having detrimental effects on the natural and built heritage of the local area
Our Partnership Commitments: 3.1We will have a robust planning framework that seeks to conserve and enhance our natural environment 3.2We will work together as a Partnership to deliver holistic protection to maintain high quality landscapes, ecosystems and built heritage. 3.3As partners we will ensure our assets are managed in a coordinated way for the benefit of local communities.
This Environment Strategy aims to put into place a long term management plan to ensure the environment of South West Devon remains special. For the first year of this four year plan, we aim to develop the frameworks to effectively work together as public sector organisations with our community groups and local charitable organisations. These partnership arrangements will ensure that over the four year period we can deliver the improvements our communities need and want, to secure a sustainable environment that in turn will support the well being of our local communities, the economic future of the area and enable appropriate development of sustainable dwellings. GLOSSARY OF TERMS
AONB- Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, two local sites- http://www.tamarvalley.org.uk/ and www.southdevonaonb.org.uk BTCV- British Trust for Conservation Volunteers Biodiversity- Biodiversity is the variety of all life on Earth. This includes all species of animals and plants, and the natural systems that support them. (defra) Community Council of Devon- A rural charity giving advice and support for rural communities on funding projects, playing fields, village halls etc. Dartmoor Circle- Environmental charity aiming for a low carbon Dartmoor DAWRRC- Devon Authorities Waste reduction and Recycling Committee DCCN- Devon Community Composting Network DCRN- Devon Community Recycling Network Devon Heartlands- The Devon Heartlands Community Partnership is the successor to the Okehampton Area MCTi Partnership working with communities of Okehampton, North Tawton & Chagford and the surrounding Parishes. Ecosystems Approach- a framework for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way. Energy Action Devon- Environmental charity working to reduce the impact of climate change and fuel poverty Health- "state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" (World Health Organisation (1948) WHO) Kyoto Protocol- an international agreement linked to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Regen SW- a not for profit company promoting renewable energy Resource Futures- Environmental consultant Sustainable development- "meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs" (World Commission on Environment and Development (1987) SWDWP- South West Devon Waste Partnership (Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council) SWWRF- South West Waste and Recycling Forum TaVi- Tavistock and Villages Development Forum, which arose out of the Market & Coastal Town Initiative (MCTI). They are an independent body giving their local community a voice to the public, private, third and voluntary sectors. Transition Towns- A Transition Initiative (which could be a town, village, university or island etc) is a community-led response to the pressures of climate change, fossil fuel depletion and increasingly, economic contraction. World Heritage Sites- The World Heritage List includes 911 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value. WRAP- Waste and Resources Action Programme
Environment Action Plan 2011/12
1. SUSTAINABLE WASTE MANAGEMENT
1.1 Working to reduce, re-use, recycle and recover more waste for our communities Actions Target Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Date Officer Agencies/Groups Involvement Action How the Desirable community is/can Action be involved Community Action Continue to educate and communicate March Ruth Edwards, SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Direct Desirable, driven by Waste Management with communities and community 2012 Jane Savage DAWRRC, DCRN, involvement with statutory. Policies (SHDC) groups to reduce, reuse and recycle & Andy WRAP, SWWRF. community West Devon Waste their waste; through targeted Barron. groups and town Strategy communication and education which and parish Waste Education Policy ties in with local, regional and national councils (Voices) (WDBC) campaigns. Devon Municipal Waste Strategy Continue waste education initiatives March Andy Barron SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Direct Desirable, driven by Waste Education Policy within schools to encourage future and 2012 DAWRRC, Resource involvement with statutory. (WDBC) current generations to manage their Futures, DCCN. local schools. waste sustainably. Investigate new cost effective waste March Ruth Edwards, SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Possibility of Desirable- raised by Waste Management management initiatives which 2012 Andy Barron, DAWRRC, DCRN, utilising Big Members priority for Policies (SHDC) encourage management of waste Stuart Jellings, DCCN, SWDWP, Society agenda. action West Devon Waste further up the waste hierarchy, Jane Savage Community Groups. Strategy particularly involving anaerobic Devon Municipal Waste digesters. Strategy Lobby Government, the EU and the March Ruth Edwards SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Business Voice Desirable- raised by Waste Management worst offending ‘suppliers’/producers 2012 & Andy Barron DAWRRC, DCRN, Members as priority Policies (SHDC) to lower the amount of non- DCCN for action West Devon Waste biodegradable packaging, particularly Strategy with fruit and veg. Devon Municipal Waste Strategy Introduce a pilot project to investigate March Andy Barron SHDC, WDBC Town and Parish Desirable raised by Community Life Strategy the feasibility of community 2012 and Emma Voices/ Clusters/ Members as priority composting sites to reduce waste Gorbutt Link Committees for action. collection and benefit local Community Voice communities (link to pilot project for allotments below)
To focus specific communications In place by Ruth Edwards, SHDC, WDBC and Business Voice Desirable, raised by Waste Management towards tourists and second home March Andy Barron, DCC, Dartmoor staff and Members Policies (SHDC) owners to manage their waste 2012, to be Jane Savage Partnership to improve recycling West Devon Waste sustainably and to use local waste continued rates Strategy management services effectively. over Devon Municipal Waste following Strategy years. 1.2 Improve the sustainability of our waste management Actions Target Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Date Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community is/can Action be involved Community Action Explore possibility of expanding April 2013 Beverley SHDC, WDBC Business Voices Desirable- Waste Management commercial waste recycling and waste Mason, Stuart efficiency. Raised Policies (SHDC) collections across West Devon and Jellings, Helen by Members and West Devon Waste the South Hams. Dobby staff. Strategy Devon Municipal Waste Strategy Offer support and advice to March Beverley SHDC, WDBC, Business Voices Desirable Waste Management businesses to manage their waste 2012 Mason, Ian Environment Agency Policies (SHDC) both legally and sustainably and to Hosking West Devon Waste take enforcement action against Strategy businesses that do not comply with the Devon Municipal Waste law. Strategy Economy Strategy Investigate new cost effective waste March Ruth Edwards, SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Possibility of Desirable- raised by Waste Management management initiatives which 2012 Andy Barron, DAWRRC, DCRN, utilising Big Members priority for Policies (SHDC) encourage management of waste Stuart Jellings, DCCN, SWDWP, Society agenda. action West Devon Waste further up the waste hierarchy, Jane Savage Community Groups. Strategy particularly involving anaerobic Devon Municipal Waste digesters. Strategy 1.3 Working with our partners to ensure sustainable waste disposal Actions Target Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Date Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community is/can Action be involved Community Action Investigate more efficient and effective 2015 Stuart Jellings, SHDC, WDBC, DCC, The Voices Desirable- efficiency Waste Management methods of transporting and managing Richard Dean, DAWRRC, SWDWP. Policies (SHDC) the movement of waste, with a focus Ruth Edwards West Devon Waste on the proximity principle, both within Strategy and outside South West Devon. Devon Municipal Waste Strategy Work with our partners to influence the 2012 Helen Dobby SHDC, DCC, PCC, The Voices Desirable Waste Management South West Devon Waste Partnership TC and SWDWP Policies (SHDC) in finding a suitable site and method to West Devon Waste dispose of our waste sustainably. Strategy Devon Municipal Waste Strategy
2. ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES AND ORGANISATIONS
2.1 Working Together to become greener and more efficient organisations Actions Target Date Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be involved Community Action Through the Environment Delivery 31/03/2012 Laura Payne All partners on Group, partner organisations to share Environment Delivery best practice about becoming greener Group organisations Review and amend the ‘Efficiency Sept 2012 Laura Payne SHDC and WDBC Internal document Desirable- efficiency Climate Change Strategy through Sustainability Action Plan’ in but could be and carbon and Efficiency through South Hams to become a document opened for reduction Sustainability Action Plan relevant and achievable by both consultation Existing Officer time 2009-2011 (SHDC) authorities. Implement an encouraging and March 2012 Laura Payne SHDC and WDBC N/A - internal Desirable- efficiency Green Travel Plan for enabling ‘Green Travel Policy’ and and carbon West Devon Borough associated action plan across South reduction Council; Hams DC and West Devon BC for Existing Officer Climate Change Strategy staff and council activities. time. and Action Plan (SHDC); Active South Hams and West Devon Action Plan Support the ‘Green Team’ at SHDC December Emma Gorbutt SHDC and WDBC N/A- internal Desirable Carbon Reduction and the ‘Green Champions’ at WDBC 2011 and Laura Management Plan to share best practice and work on Payne (SHDC) shared actions with staff and Efficiency through Members. Sustainability Action Plan 2009-2011 (SHDC) Green Champions Action Plan (WDBC) Develop a Sustainability Policy March 2012 Laura Payne South Hams District N/A- internal Existing Officer time Sustainability Policy Framework across SH and WD to Annually Council and West Framework (SHDC) demonstrate how the principles of Devon BC sustainability are integrated throughout the council’s processes and services. 2.2 Encouraging and enabling Renewable Energy generation and reducing non-renewable energy use: Actions Target Date Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved Action Review guidance provided to assist March 2012 Development WDBC Consultation Existing officer time DNPA Management Plan local people and community Management SHDC with and partner time organisations in relation to DNPA communities Planning Policies for Renewable Energy and applying for AONB’s will be required SHDC and WDBC installations Regen South West, Energy Action Devon, Environment Agency
Review the way in which partners and March 2012 Development WDBC SHDC DNPA Their needs Desirable- from Community Life Strategy SHDC and WDBC support and management AONBs and aspirations staff and members encourage the development of and The Green Dartmoor Circle will shape the sessions Economy Strategy renewable energy generation and Team and Transition Towns way we investigate potential for Renewable Green Regen South West, improve the Possibility of new DNPA Management Plan Energy Position Statement. Champions Energy Action delivery of officer to champion Devon, Kingsbridge services. Local renewables/existing Low Carbon Group, resident and officer time PL21,North Tawton ‘expert’ panels/ Environment Trust. networks Environment Agency Promote DNPA new Design Guide March 2012 Jo Rumble DNPA DNPA action Desirable – DNPA Management Plan which will support the construction of (DNPA) Suggested by Jo environmentally sustainable houses Rumble at DNPA Research external funding March 2012 Green Team SHDC (DNPA) Scope for large Desirable- raised Carbon Management opportunities and appropriate amount of by Members as Plan, Efficiency through providers to conduct an assessment community priority for action. Sustainability Action Plan of our Renewable Energy potential engagement to (SHDC) within South Hams including offshore assess potential. likelihood of community support. Partner’s to support the completion March 2012 Andrew Dartmoor Circle, Community Community Action Carbon Management Plan and implementation of Dartmoor Shadrake DNPA, WDBC, Action (SHDC) Circle’s Low Carbon Action Plan (Dartmoor SHDC, Duchy, Circle) Dartmoor Commoners, Dartmoor Partnership Sustainable South Brent Proper Job (Chagford) Westden (Tavistock) Pl21 (Ivybridge) SHDC to act on recommendations Apr 2012 Alan Robinson SHDC and Tresoc Potential Desirable- carbon SHDC Planning policies from the RE feasibility study consultation reduction and commissioned in early 2011. required efficiency Asset Management Plan 2.3 Adapting and mitigating the effects of changes in our climate Actions Target Date Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved Action Enable and support communities to March 2012 Peter Dale SHDC and WDBC Through parish Desirable Parish Plans, SHDC develop resilience to extreme DCC planning Emergency Response weather events such as flooding, EA process Guide, DCC Major snow and ice through emergency Emergencies Plan parish planning. Raise public awareness of March 2012 Tracy SHDC and WDBC Connect, Town Desirable Parish Plans, SHDC emergency planning, through Windemer, DCC and Parish Emergency Response promotion on websites, South Peter Dale EA Voices Guide, DCC Major Hams/West Devon Connect, and Emergencies Plan public/parish council meetings/events Promote community resilience to March 2012 Tracy Windemer SHDC and WDBC N/A- internal Desirable Parish Plans, SHDC flooding by investigation and support and the Environment Emergency Response of property protection grants and/or Agency Guide, DCC Major flood schemes through the DCC Emergencies Plan Environment Agency funding streams EA Provide a consultation service and March 2012 Tracy Windemer SHDC and WDBC N/A- internal Statutory Planning Policies, LDF technical evaluation of sustainable documents. drainage for planning applications. Contribute to multi agency March 2012 Peter Dale SHDC N/A- internal Desirable Shoreline Management partnerships to identify and monitor EA Plan, DCC Coastal risks to coastal communities Pollution Plan 2.4 Working to promote and support environmentally sustainable initiatives in the community Actions Target Date Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved Action Investigate the potential to work with March 2012 Andy Barron SHDC and WDBC An appropriate Desirable- raised Community Engagement a community organisation to enable and Emma community by Members as Strategy, the use of council owned land to be Gorbutt group will be priority for action utilised for a community allotment and directly Community Life Strategy associated compost site (see action involved under 1.1) LDF Documents Appraise the way in which Partners March 2012 Emma Gorbutt Transition Towns Their needs Desirable Community Engagement and WDBC/SHDC support and Groups, Grow Tavi, and aspirations Strategy, encourage the development of local West Den, TAVI will shape the Existing officer time and sustainable food production and WDBC SHDC way we and partner time Community Life Strategy distribution in South West Devon. DNPA Town and improve the Parish Voices. delivery of Dartmoor services. Local Partnership, resident and ‘expert’ panels/ networks Improve community engagement by March 2012 Dotty Allan WDBC SHDC Parish plans Desirable Community Engagement working with communities in West Parish Plan groups are developed Existing staff time Strategy, Devon and South Hams through Parish Councils and lead by and partner time community led planning to ensure Community Council local Community Life Strategy that plans take into account of Devon communities environmental considerations and HOG -Co Parish Plans sustainability. Statement of Community Involvement Map existing community food projects December Emma Gorbutt Transition Towns Extensive Desirable Community Engagement and allotments to identify gaps in 2011 Quarterly Groups, Grow Tavi, consultation Existing staff time Strategy, provision. West Den, TAVI required. and partner time WDBC SHDC Community Life Strategy DNPA Parish Link Committees Parish Plans Hog-co AONB’s Statement of Community Involvement
3. CONSERVE AND ENHANCE THE BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
3.1 Responsible planning, to conserve and enhance the environment Actions Target Date Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved Action Ensure strategic planning policies are In line with Jo Perry and SHDC WDBC DNPA Statement of Statutory AONB Management reviewed and developed to continue to Local Graham Swiss Community Plans take into account environmental Developmen Jo Rumble Involvement considerations and sustainability t Scheme Public Space Strategies principles.
Development Management to March 2012 Anna Henderson- SHDC, WDBC N/A- internal Desirable- raised by Planning policies introduce a working practise to Smith/Ben Dancer Members as priority challenge the demolition of properties and Malcolm Elliot for action when mentioned in a related planning application Improve our monitoring and Oct 2011 Enforcement SHDC and WDBC Community Desirable NERC Act enforcement of environmental teams across input alerting protection and enhancement planning authorities Annual Council’s to Existing staff PPS9 Biodiversity and consent conditions/clauses. breaches, resources Geological Conservation other body involvement such as the EA, N E and Police as poss. enforcing body 3.2 Working to protect our high quality landscapes, marine environment and built heritage Actions Target Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Date Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved Action Investigate and implement initiatives to March 2012 Andy Barron, Ian SHDC, WDBC, Big Society Desirable- raised by Waste Management reduce litter and to encourage Hosking, Resource Futures, approach to Members and staff Policies, West Devon residents and visitors to use facilities (Keep Britain Tidy?) enable Waste Strategy provided for collection of litter. community projects Continue to take enforcement action March 2012 Ian Hosking, Alison SHDC, WDBC, Communities Desirable Waste Management against people who fly-tip and to Stoneham Environment Agency, encouraged to Policies, West Devon publicise the details of successful Police, DNPA report Waste Strategy, prosecutions. Rangers incidences Environmental Health Enforcement Policy
Investigate whether there is potential to March 2012 Ian Hosking SHDC, WDBC, N/A Desirable Waste Management increase the level of fines for fly-tipping DEFRA Policies, West Devon offences. Waste Strategy, Environmental Health Enforcement Policy
Promote and support volunteer and March 2012 Ian Hosking, Stuart SHDC, WDBC, Big Society Desirable- Community Engagement community litter clearance events on Jellings, Community and approach community Strategy beaches and other public land. Landscape & voluntary groups, supporting Leisure BCTV, Probation community Service, DNPA projects Rangers Deliver and support South Devon Apr 2012 Robin Toogood South Devon AONB Public Plan production SHDC LDF documents AONB Management Plan including Unit consultation Statutory DCC Structure Plan actions relating to Natural England on plan Natural Environment DEFRA adoption AONB unit budget Sustainable Living SHDC & DCC Awareness and TBC & PCC Extensive Communication community / Partnerships volunteering involvement in AONB work Deliver and support Tamar Valley Apr 2012 Tim Selman Tamar Valley AONB Public Plan production WDBC LDF documents AONB Management Plan including Unit consultation Statutory DCC & CCC Structure actions relating to Natural England on plan Plans Landscape Management DEFRA adoption AONB unit budget World Heritage Site WDBC & SHDC Sustainable Management DCC & CCC Extensive Safeguarding the AONB community / Understanding and awareness volunteering AONB Management involvement in AONB work Review opportunity for joint SH and June 2011 Jo Perry SHDC & WDBC Community Desirable Devon Landscape WD “Landscape character Ross Kennerley DCC and interest Character Assessment assessment” and accompanying Georgina Browne Natural England group European Landscape Management Guidelines DNPA consultation Strategy Promote targeting of Land March 2012 Ross Kennerley DEFRA Promotion Desirable Green Infrastructure Management and Woodland Natural England through Link Targeting of existing Plans Management grants to areas of local Forestry Commission Comm./ funding landscape importance clusters Support local tree planting and On going Keith Rennells SHDC Lead from Desirable National Tree Planting protection through community SHTWN Parish Tree Existing staff time Strategy partnerships with Tree Warden warden Networks Network Allocated budget Support and enable conservation Apr 2012 Richard Gage SHDC & WDBC Consultation Desirable SHDC LDF documents initiatives within communities focussed English Heritage on published Community Action DCC Structure Plan on protecting our industrial and built AONB documents. EH Guidance Notes heritage, through education; supporting DNPA Part ownership and enabling. possibilities Conserve and enhance our historic Apr 2012 Richard Gage SHDC & WDBC Parish Statutory SHDC LDF documents built environment through the English Heritage Consultations DCC Structure Plan Programme of Heritage Protection DNPA Member/Com PPS5 & PPS1 Reform and the legislative Planning munity EH Guidance Notes framework as part of the statutory Involvement at South Devon AONB planning function of the LPA. pre-app stage Management Plan and throughout the planning process Publish Conservation Area Appraisals Apr 2012 Nils White SHDC & WDBC Consultation Desirable PPS5 to improve our knowledge and Graham Lawrence DNPA throughout the EH Guidance & Best understanding of the extent and Annual process with Allocated budget Practice condition of South West Devon’s various South Devon AONB historic environmental resources. Use community Desirable but Management Plan appraisals to inform management bodies. requires addition decisions. (statutory resources consultation) Formal Potential consultation Community Action prior to adoption Implementing Conservation Area Ongoing Graham Lawrence, SHDC and WDBC, Opportunity for Desirable Conservation Area Management Plans in association with Nils White and Town Heritage Community to Existing staff Appraisals across SH partners, such as Tavistock Robert Plumb Partnerships. self- monitor resources and WD Townscape Heritage Partnership. Annual Support delivery of the Cornwall and March 2012 Graham Lawrence WDBC, DCC, Promotion Desirable but Existing WHS West Devon World Heritage Site – for Annual Cornwall Council, through West requires addition Management Plan Management Plan projects and completion WHS Officer Working Devon Voices. Conservation interpretation, particularly building an of review of Group and resources identity for Tavistock as the eastern Plan Partnership. gateway to the World Heritage Site.
Review and combine the Biodiversity Mar 2012 Ross Kennerley SHDC & WDBC To be Desirable South Hams and West Duty Action Plans at WD and SH- in Rob Sekula Annual DEFRA assessed Existing staff Devon Biodiversity Action particular duties relating to resources Plans Strategic Planning Development management Asset management Implement Service Level Agreements June 2011 Jo Perry SHDC & WDBC Input from Funding from Council Biodiversity with Devon Biodiversity Records Ross Kennerley DBRC specialist government Plans Centre at both authorities. Annual groups Biodiversity award Implement standardised biodiversity June 2011 Anna Henderson- SHDC & WDBC Input from Existing staff Natural England Standing screening for planning applications and Smith/Ben Dancer NE specialist resources advice; accompanying planning guidance, and Malcolm Elliot DCC groups Funding from Council Biodiversity across both authorities. TBC government Plans Biodiversity award Investigate the feasibility of June 2011 Ross Kennerley SHDC Community Desirable National Biodiversity implementing a landscape scale Robin Toogood South Devon AONB interest groups Big Lottery Action Plan project relating to the South Devon TBC Unit; as partners in Other funding Integrated Biodiversity Delivery Area. TBC, TCCT, PCC project sources Natural England, DEFRA Increase the number of County Wildlife March 2012 Ross Kennerley DCC Could be Continuance of Defra Local Sites Sites in positive management. Rob Sekula Annual DBRC achieved funding to Devon Indicator DNPA through Biodiversity encouraging Monitoring volunteering Framework Regulate / Manage local pollution March 2012 Ian Luscombe SHDC and WDBC, Statutory Air Quality Strategy issues through: Bi-annual update DCC, DEFRA, DWI, requirements Contaminated Land - Air Quality Management Zones EA Strategy Environmental - Regulation of Private water Existing resources Protection Enforcement Supplies Policy Bathing Water - Managing statutory nuisance Strategy (e.g. noise and odour emissions) - -Inspecting Industrial Processes - Delivering the Contaminated Land Strategies - - Monitoring Bathing Waters Develop management linkages and Mar 2012 Nigel SHDC, SD AONB, Work with Statutory Marine and Coastal coastal zone integration opportunities Mortimer Community Groups specialist Access Act 2010; under Marine and Coastal Access Act marine groups Estuary Management 2010 Plans
Promote and continue with the March 2012 Ian Gibson SHDC, EA and Local Statutory EU Directives, Estuary commitment of the Harbour Authority, Salcombe Harbour community Management Plan. SHDC and the Environment Agency to Authority groups are Existing resources improve water quality and sustainable often environmental practises within the consulted and Estuary. involved in Harbour Authority activity. Maintain effective management March 2012 Robin Toogood South Devon AONB Marine interest Desirable Estuary Management arrangements for our estuaries within, Unit groups Plans through a series of groups and forums, SHDC, DCC Harbour and implement the estuary Harbour Authorities Authorities management plans. Scope all new legislation relating to the June 11 Nigel Mortimer South Devon AONB Marine interest Statutory Marine and Coastal marine and coastal environment and Unit groups Access Act; EU designations for their impact on partner SHDC, DCC Harbour Directives. authorities. Harbour Authorities Authorities Confirm joint arrangements for support April 12 Ross Kennerley SHDC & WDBC Annual Statutory TECF Management Plan to Tamar Estuaries Consultative Forum Jo Perry TECF Tamar SAC Management and undertake review of Tamar Existing budget Plan Estuary Management Plan. 3.3 Delivering green infrastructure and improving access to public open space Actions Target Responsible Responsible Community Statutory Linked Strategies Date Officer and Agencies/Groups Involvement Action Monitoring How the Desirable Frequency community Action is/can be Community involved. Action Active participation in strategic Green On going Ross Kennerley Natural England; Community Statutory LDF Policy and Site Infrastructure Partnerships and Plan 3 monthly Forestry interest groups Allocations delivery in Plymouth and Torbay Commission; involved in Existing staff SHDC and WDBC; projects and resources Plymouth Green PCC & TBC plan Infrastructure Plan DNPA development Developer contributions Torbay Green External Grants Infrastructure Plan Consider opportunities for local green Sept 11 Rob Sekula SHDC & WDBC; Community Statutory LDF Policy and Site Infrastructure plans for Market Towns Ross Kennerley Town and Parish interest groups Allocations alongside Public Space Strategy Jo Perry Councils; involved in review and Masterplanning exercises TBC DNPA projects and NE, EA, FC etc plan development Implement delivery of the South Hams Mar 12 Ross Kennerley SHDC Town and Desirable (but South Hams Public Public Space Action Plan including Town and Parish Parish Council statutory need to Space strategy themes in relation to Councils Voices, manage owned Increasing accessibility Landowners Community land) PPG 17 “Open Space, Improving quality Voices Sport and recreation” Partnership working Existing capital and Sustainable design and revenue budgets maintenance External grant bids
s.106 funding Improve management of public space March 2012 Ross Kennerley SHDC & WDBC Town and Desirable South Hams Public through closer working with Town, Rob Sekula Keith DNPA, DCC Parish Council Existing capital and Space Strategy Parish, Market Town and Community Rennells Town and Parish Voices revenue budgets groups. (to include DNP and DCC Councils Parish Plans assets) Landowners External grant bids Public Agencies PPG 17 “Open Space, s.106 funding Sport and recreation”
Core Strategies and other LDF documents Work with DCC to influence local Jan 2012 Ross Kennerley SHDC, WDBC, DCC, Link with Desirable- raised by DCC Local Transport transport plans to improve countryside DNPA parish/neighbo Members as priority Plans access within the area. urhood plans for action Improve the ‘enjoyment of the Apr 2012 Keith Rennells SHDC & WDBC Volunteer Desirable Public Space Strategy environment’, by continuing and Rob Sekula Health Authorities involvement in improving existing initiatives such as DCC scheme Existing Resources Health Strategy Village Trails, Health Walks, Local Natural England delivery Nature Reserve management, event DNPA programmes, and cycling/ walking Direct benefit routes and networks. to communities E & E SP 2.6.11
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT SCRUTINY PANEL HELD AT FOLLATON HOUSE, TOTNES ON THURSDAY 2 JUNE 2011
Panel Members in attendance * Denotes attendance Ø Denotes apology for absence * Cllr K J Baldry * Cllr R Rowe * Cllr A D Barber * Cllr P C Smerdon Cllr P Coulson (Chairman) Cllr M Stone Ø Ø * Cllr B S Cooper * Cllr R J Vint * Cllr R J Foss (Vice Chairman) * Cllr K R H Wingate * Cllr J T Pennington * Cllr S A E Wright
Non Panel Members also in attendance and participating Cllrs H D Bastone (Executive Member for ICT & Customer Services) and M J Hicks (Executive Member for Finance & Audit) Non Panel Members also in attendance and not participating Cllrs J H Baverstock, B E Carson and T R Holway
Item Minute Ref No Officers in attendance and participating No below refers 7 EE.03/11 Member Support Services Manager, Member Support Officer, Community Delivery Manager, Improvement Programme Manager (SHDC), Policy Implementation Officer and Business Support Officer 8 EE.04/11 Member Support Services Manager & Member Support Officer 9 EE.05/11 Member Support Services Manager & Member Support Officer
EE.01/11 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Members and officers were invited to declare any interests in the items of business to be considered during the course of the meeting.
Cllr R J Vint declared a personal interest in Item 7: ‘Draft Delivery Plans’ (Minute EE.03/11 below refers) by virtue of his involvement as both a trustee of the Totnes Development Trust and his role within Transition Town Totnes and remained in the meeting and took part in the discussion on this item.
EE.02/11 PUBLIC FORUM
It was confirmed that no issues had been raised by members of the public.
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EE.03/11 DRAFT DELIVERY PLANS
The Community Delivery Manager briefly set out the context and background of the draft joint Delivery Plans with West Devon Borough Council, relating them to the Councils’ overarching Partnership document, the ‘Connect Strategy’. After consultation, four joint priorities had been established (minute 58/10(m) refers). These were Homes, Community Life, Economy and the Environment, and each had a set of sub-priorities.
The draft Delivery Plans set out the context in which the priorities would be delivered through partnership working as two Councils with our communities and other public sector partners. The plans set out specific actions and targets for the next twelve months, with the Economy and Environment Plans being presented to the Panel for further consultation.
(1) The Economy Delivery Plan:
The Panel then discussed the action plans to support the Economic Delivery Plan.
During the discussion, the following points were raised:
(a) Aligning the Economic and Environment Strategies: A Member stated that the decision to integrate the Economy and Environment themes into the remit of a Scrutiny Panel was an excellent decision, as it created the opportunity to work towards closer integration and possible merger of the two Strategies. He also highlighted that: the local economy would need to be sustainable; the renewable energy sector was predicted to be a strong feature of economic regeneration in the South West; there should be an aspiration to reduce the waste of energy and other scarce resources; and there should be an aspiration to protect rural and market town economies
Officers responded that the merger of some actions which straddled both the economy and the environment was something that could be given consideration in the future and that cross cutting issues were considered throughout all four strategies. However, as Members had adopted two separate priorities, there needed to be two separate strategies to support them currently. That said, the officer expressed that this could be re-considered when they were updated for next year.
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(b) Factors affecting Economic Growth: Referring to the list of factors that will affect growth, a Member wished to highlight that increased taxation was also an obstacle to growth and those on middle incomes earning £40,000 per annum were going to be particularly hard hit, and they were typically the big spenders.
The ratio of average house prices to income and the lack of access to broadband in many of the rural areas were also discussed as major issues for the district.
(c) Localism Bill: It was discussed that proposals in the Bill would have a major impact on how the Council operated. The Bill could potentially play a key role in giving communities more control over future development.
(d) Decline of Village Economies: It was highlighted that any economic needs information sources should include data on the state and decline of village economies. In response the Improvement Programme Manager (SHDC) said that it was not clear what specific data could be sourced in this respect, but that where possible data could be captured within the economic needs section to provide a contextual background as to the state and decline of village economies.
(e) Lack of Tourist Accommodation – A38 Corridor: A Member highlighted the need for more hotel accommodation along the A38 Corridor in the western part of the South Hams, particularly in light of the high numbers of vehicles passing through the area to travel on continental ferries from Plymouth. There was felt to be a general lack of Bed & Breakfast accommodation and hotels in this particular area.
(f) Promoting Enterprise, Business Start-Up, Development, Growth and Solar Power: A Member referred to the RegenSW Report and reiterated that the study had highlighted that the South West was very well placed to take advantage of the very strong growth in the Renewable Energy Sector. This was due to factors including: the expertise already present in the region, the region’s natural assets, and it being at the forefront of developing new technologies in wave and offshore wind energy. The Member also suggested that the region should be more pro-active in attracting Renewable Energy Companies, such as solar power, to relocate to the South West.
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Specifically in terms of solar power, it was suggested that the Assets team investigate the possibility of installing solar panels (wherever possible) on Council owned buildings in order to generate electricity to sell back to the national grid at the feed in tariff. It was also suggested that discussions should take place with colleagues at Teignbridge District Council, who it was believed, had already undertaken such measures at some locations.
(g) Delivery Plan Updates: The Lead Executive Member for ICT & Customer Services suggested that the Panel should have a programme of updates and of what actions had been completed. The Improvement Programme Manager (SHDC) informed that by the next financial year, a number of the actions would have already been completed. Members supported the view that they should fulfil a monitoring role and it was requested that updates be provided to Panel meetings throughout the year.
(h) Reducing Car Dependency and the Need to Travel: A Member commented that to create a sustainable local economy, emphasis should be given to reducing ‘car dependency’ and the need to travel, such as developing rural broadband, rather than on the unsustainable option of building more roads.
(i) Charging Points for Electric Cars: A Member suggested that the Council should investigate the possibilities of piloting the installation of some electric charger points in its market town car parks to enable those with electric cars a facility to re-charge. It was further suggested that the energy could be generated locally and distributed into car parks and such a scheme could also motivate some residents into making the transition to electric vehicles. The Improvement Programme Manager (SHDC) agreed to feedback the suggestion for the Environment Delivery Plan.
(j) Support of Local and Sustainable Food Production; A Member was of the view that the Council should support the development of local and sustainable food production via planning and procurement policies (as suggested in some of the recommendations in a published report entitled ‘Field to Fork’ (CPRE)). Thereby, providing much needed help and support to small-scale retailers in town centres and regular markets. He noted that Totnes had already received a national award for being the town that produced the highest level of its own food (66%) within a 30 mile radius. He went on to suggest that a local food links forum could be established.
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Another Member commented that the region produced far more food than it consumed, so there would always be a need to transport the remainder to other regions.
A Member also emphasised the need for the viability of Dairy Farmers and fair trade. In reply, it was noted that the authority lent its support to the Buy Local Campaigns and Farmers Markets.
In addition, it was suggested that agricultural businesses should be represented on the South Hams Business Forum.
(k) Industrial Synergy: It was felt that local industrial synergy (i.e. the sharing of facilities and resources between local businesses, provision of raw materials and recycling of waste products) should be promoted and included in the action plan.
(l) Access to Transport: It was suggested that access to public transport be included in the action plan as Devon County Council’s (DCC) ethos on rural transport was not compatible with the Council’s Economy strategy. As a consequence, many residents now found themselves in the position of not being able to get home on public transport during unsocial hours. However, another Member highlighted that in rural areas, the car would always remain the main means of travel and that many people did not want to lose their independence by car sharing. It was noted that DCC had a much reduced income and had found itself in the difficult position of having to cut back on rural transport. Members felt this issue should remain under scrutiny.
(m)Town and Parish Plans: It was noted that not all Town and Parish Councils had such plans. A Member expressed her disappointment that despite all the hard work and effort that the Parish Council had put into producing the plans in her ward, they had not been listened to. In response the Improvement Delivery Manager (WDBC) said this area of work would be considered in the Community Life Plan.
(2) The Environment Delivery Plan:
The Panel then discussed the action plan to support the Environment Delivery Plan.
During the discussion, the following points were raised:
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(a) Weekly Waste Collections: With regard to the Governments proposals to return to weekly collections of domestic waste, a Member noted the extensive cost implications of returning to this system and that residents should therefore be encouraged or enabled to recycle more. It was noted that every local authority had a different regime for the management and recycling of waste. There were typically three types of recycling and each system incurred a different end cost.
(b) Reduction of Packaging: A Member highlighted that the authority performed well in regard to recycling and composting however, it was also suggested that the authority lend its support to projects that encouraged the ‘reuse’ of items.
Moreover, it was further suggested that the authority could develop a policy to support local shops and local produce, and to further reduce the amount of waste that ended up in landfill. It was highlighted that imported and supermarket food resulted in far more packaging per tonne than local food from small, independent stores.
The view was also expressed that refuse vehicles could be used to advertise ‘waste prevention’ campaigns.
(c) Reduction dependency on transportation and expenditure on fuel: Arising from the discussion on promoting local shops and local produce, a Member highlighted that this would additionally support a reduction in expenditure and dependency on the transportation of fuel. Another Member added his view that the development of on-line shopping from supermarkets was an efficient and effective way to reduce dependency on transportation, but this was also again dependent on widespread rural access to broadband.
(d) Sustainable Development Vision and Market Town Action Plan: It was felt pertinent for the proposed ‘Economic Vision’ for each cluster/town, and updated Market Town Plans (as set out in actions 2.2. A and B of the Environment Delivery Action Plan on page 28 of the published agenda) for South Hams and West Devon to be merged so that instead all the Market Towns in both areas could construct an overarching ‘Sustainable Development Vision’ with a Market Town Action Plan to deliver that vision.
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(e) Forum to Promote Renewable Energy: Members were interested in developing a ‘forum’ to promote renewable energy, which could include representatives such as: suppliers, installers and school representatives in order to involve the next generation.
(f) Hydro Electric Power and Wave Power: Members wished to investigate the potential to maximise the use of hydro electric power and the potential external funding opportunities. It was also felt that a lot of opportunities were being missed in this regard (e.g. via wave energy).
(g) Hedgerows on Housing Estates: A Member highlighted the issue of hedgerows on housing estates that were not being managed. Some of the housing estates had been built around thirty or forty years ago and no provisions had been made for the future management of the hedgerows which was now becoming a real issue. It was also asked if the authority had a strategy for working with volunteers.
(h) Green Travel Policy: It was suggested that the authority work with DCC to influence their local transport plans in this regard.
(i) Allotments: It was noted that there was a high demand for allotments and that the primary responsibility for sourcing suitable land lay with Town and Parish Councils. It was highlighted that this was a hot topic at the current time.
(j) Demolition of Properties: A Member highlighted that one of the principal reasons why properties were often knocked down by developers was that new builds were zero rated for VAT and planning permission was not required to demolish a property (unless located in a Conservation Area). Having said that, it was acknowledged that prior notification had to be given to the Council 28 days in advance, which could be refused.
(k) Flats above Shops: A Member highlighted that first floor flats above shops were often empty and abandoned and it was suggested that it ought to be investigated if there was a means to work with landlords to ensure that they are brought back into use for accommodation akin to the work being done on empty properties.
(l) Introduction of charging for DIY waste by DCC: Members discussed disquiet at this proposal as they felt it would merely increase the incidents of fly tipping in the countryside.
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(m) Website: It was asked if the Website could be updated, as it appeared that this had not been done since January 2011.
EE.04/11 THE DRAFT EXECUTIVE FORWARD PLAN
Ivybridge Swimming Pool: It was discussed that it was more appropriate for this item to be raised by a local Ward Member, but it was acknowledged that it was a very useful facility for local families and there was a danger that Ivybridge could end up with no facility at all.
EE.05/11 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
The Chairman requested that Members give consideration to any future potential task and finish, or other agenda items that they may wish to include on their work programme, and to inform Member Support Services before the Panel was next scheduled to meet for an informal meeting on 7 July 2011.
It was discussed that the Panel should meet more often than was currently scheduled as the current list of meeting dates were too few and too far apart to make significant progress on items.
(Meeting started at 2.00pm and concluded at 4.25pm.) ______Chairman
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