Issue - meetings

Councillor M F L Durham referred to concerns regarding the increase in the district's housing requirement under the revised National Planning Policy Framework and its implications for infrastructure and speculative development. He asked whether the Leader of the Council would write to the Secretary of State seeking a review of the housing allocation. In response, the Leader acknowledged those concerns and confirmed that he would write to the Secretary of State as requested.

Councillor Bown asked whether the Council should withdraw its support for the five-unitary model following the withdrawal of the Essex LGR proposals. The Leader replied that he shared those concerns and noted that LGR had not been a significant issue for residents but stated that the matter was for the Council to determine. He added that the Government may bring forward alternative unitary proposals following the review process.

Councillor A S Fluker suggested that the name “Rainer” be considered when naming streets in future developments. In response, the Leader agreed that the suggestion could be considered.

Councillor W Stamp referred to public awareness of LGR and asked whether the Leader accepted that his earlier comments may not have been entirely accurate. In response, the Leader acknowledged that Councillor Stamp had experience of constituents with knowledge of LGR and that his earlier comments may not have been entirely accurate.

Councillor P L Spenceley asked whether the Leader of the Council would write to the Burnham-on-Crouch RNLI to express the Council's support and appreciation for its volunteers. In response, the Leader praised the work of the RNLI and confirmed that he would write on behalf of the Council. Following this, Councillor A S Fluker requested that the Leader also write to the West Mersea RNLI, which the Leader agreed to do.

Councillor Fluker referred to the legal challenge relating to the County Council elections and LGR. He questioned whether expenditure on the process should have ceased at an earlier stage and sought clarification on continued support for the proposed Mid Essex unitary authority. In response, the Leader stated that the actions taken had been in accordance with the mandate agreed by the Council and would continue unless or until that mandate changed.

Councillor K M H Lagan asked whether the Leader agreed that the Council should focus on serving the residents of the District. The Leader agreed.

Councillor Bassenger asked the Leader of the Council whether Council meetings should focus on District Council business. The Leader agreed.