Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Sustainability Team Manager.

The committee received a report to provide a review of progress made in delivering the Dorset Council Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy and Action Plan.  This was the first of a bi-annual progress report to be provided to the committee.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and during discussion the following points were noted:

·            Work to establish a scoring mechanism for Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) to evaluate progress

·            Funding opportunities for green tourism

·            The availability of electric charging points across Dorset and private sector and Government investment to continue the roll out

·            Councillors were encouraged to read a document produced by the Local Enterprise Partnership which set out future requirements for energy and the need to enhance capacity

·            Work was being undertaken with partners to develop plans for solar farms throughout the council area

·            Some indicators were already included in the council’s performance system and further work was required to set out a methodology for future extended reporting.

In accordance with the Constitution, at this point in the meeting it was proposed by M Roberts seconded by D Tooke that the meeting continue beyond 3 hours.  This was supported by the committee.

Discussion continued with points raised as follows:

·            Issues around sustainable energy production were raised

·            Officer resourcing for this area was discussed and it was noted that a new corporate director post had been established.  In addition, it was noted that resources were drawn in from officers working in a wide range of services across the council for particular areas or projects

·            The transport vision for Dorset was highlighted including discussions around the council’s own transport fleet

·            Examples of the council working in partnership with other organisations and business were provided

·            Reference was made to flood management issues.