Agenda and draft minutes

There were no declarations of interest.

To note the terms of reference.

A Member requested that references to Chairman be amended to Chair.

Subject to this amendment, Members noted the terms of reference.

The Director of Strategy and Resources introduced the presentation on the proposals for the development of the new Corporate Plan, which will take effect in April 2025.

With regards to the proposed timeline and process, Members raised several points including the following:

·    There was a need for flexibility, particularly if the plan is affected by external factors such as a change in government.

·    It would be useful to have an updated version of the existing plan showing success stories and what had been delivered to date.

The next Working Group is to be held on 8^th May, which is a quick turnaround but it was recognised that early momentum through these meetings would be important

·    All Members would have several opportunities to feed into the emerging new corporate plan throughout the process.

The Chief Executive stated that September-October is a critical time for the preparation of the plan, in order for it to link in with the budget setting process and ensure that any resource or financial implications, for example staff redeployment, would be fully considered.

Members discussed continuity, and the concept of a new Corporate Plan vs. a refresh of the existing one.

The Director of Strategy and Resources moved on to the Members’ drop-in session to be held on 1 May. If any Member could not attend then comments and ideas could be submitted online. Members stressed the importance of the circulation of slides to Councillors who were unable to attend the session. The level of engagement with Town and Parish councils was also raised. The Chief Executive stated that any additions to the plan could come at the expense of existing policies, and raised the impact on FHDC staff.

The Director of Strategy and Resources then advised on the timescales, drawing on the timescales used by other authorities. Members discussed whether the existing 3-year model should be revised to 4 and whether this would be better to ensure continuity. A Member queried when the Local Plan is up for review and it was noted that the timetable was expected to be available in the coming months.

The Director of Strategy and Resources then presented the public engagement proposals. Members made points including the following:

·    The proposed Youth Council would provide a useful opportunity to engage with young people.

·    The town centre consultation was a good example of engaging with people of all ages.

·    The format of the existing plan, with it being able to be presented on one single sheet, was ideal.

·    It would be useful to hand out flyers at community events to raise awareness of public consultation.

·    It was noted that public engagement may be a challenge and Members stressed the importance of the plan being transparent and inclusive.

·    There was discussion around the language and whether this could be made less corporate, as well as making the plan relevant to individual areas across the district.

·    It was important to reach those without access to the internet, and those who lived in rural areas.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 3.

No further items were discussed.

The Leader, as Chair of the meeting, thanked Members and Officers for their time.