Minutes:
Report of the Deputy Leader
The Deputy Leader noted that the Council is proceeding with property plans as far as possible and drew Member’s attention to the Colliers website where the sale of land with planning permission for 5 houses and 3 flats is advertised, to assist with income generation.
Report of the Cabinet Member for Economic Growth
The Cabinet Member reported that work undertaken with partners to make High Streets Covid 19 safe has completed. Some adjustments are needed in Hurstpierpoint and he agreed to provide details in writing. He noted that it was too early to assess the true ramification of the Covid 19 pandemic on the economy, but work is underway in order to be prepared when reassessing the Council’s economic strategy.
Report of the Cabinet Member for Customer Services
The Cabinet Member noted that Mid Sussex Matters has been published and assured Members that the magazine aims to reflect a balance of projects across the towns and villages. She also noted that virtual Play Days have begun online, and confirmed the number of business grants that have been issued. By the end of July, a further Hardship Grant will be available for anyone in receipt of Council Tax support and those in arrears seeking financial advice.
Report of the Cabinet Member for Environment and Service Delivery
The Cabinet Member noted that playgrounds are legally open now and Government guidance gave owners and operators discretion to decide when it is safe to open individual areas. The Council has risk assessed all play areas and deep cleaned and prepared 50 sites which are now open. The guidance is being monitored before any further sites are opened. He confirmed that Officers can provide expertise or advice to Town and Parish Councils if required.
Discussion was held on the Blue Heart scheme to provide wildflower areas in some parks. It is currently a trial scheme and if successful may be possible to extend to other areas. The Cabinet Member agreed to provide a written update with details of the scheme and an update on a query over St John’s Park where it was felt that the blue heart area potentially occupied valuable leisure space in a popular location.
Discussion was also held on litter collections and a clean-up exercise along the A23. The Cabinet Member requested that any specific issues be emailed to the Council via the Council’s website, or by emailing wastematters@midsussex.gov.uk or parksopenspaces@midsussex.gov.uk.
Report of the Cabinet Member for Community.
The Cabinet Member confirmed that the annual Air Quality report has been submitted to DEFRA for approval and once approved will be shared with Ward Councillors before publishing on the Council’s website. The anticipated timescale for this is September 2020. He confirmed that the air quality assessment does measure particulates to the level that satisfies the legal requirement.
Report of Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning
The Cabinet Member confirmed that the Planning Department continues to exceed performance targets, and the Housing Department are dealing with an increase in numbers of people seeking support. A further update on the work of the Housing Department will be circulated to Members by email.