Issue - meetings

(Report of Chief Executive)

The report provided a detailed overview of the progress made in delivering the Economic Regeneration Strategy Action Plan during 2015.

Overall, good progress was being made on a wide range of initiatives as illustrated in Appendix 1 to the report.

In addition, the proposed priorities for 2016/17 were set out and took account of the limited progress made in specific areas as well as the level of future financial resources.

Following consideration by the Economic Regeneration Advisory Board, the Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration resolved that:

The Borough Economic Regeneration Strategy Action Plan update as set out in Appendix 1 to the report and the priorities for 2016/17 set out in paragraph 1.3 be endorsed.

Decision Notice: D160024MEM

The report of the Chief Executive provided a detailed overview of the progress made in delivering the Economic Regeneration Strategy Action Plan during 2015.

Overall good progress was being made on a wide range of initiatives as illustrated in Appendix 1 to the report.   Particular reference was made to the Escalate 0% interest loan funding as the re-opening of the scheme had been delayed longer than initially expected.  This was due to the insufficient loan payments generated back into Kent County Council which was needed to create a new funding ‘pot’ for further allocation. However, it was anticipated that the scheme would re-open in April 2016.

In addition, the proposed priorities for 2016/17 were set out and took account of the limited progress made in specific areas as well as the level of future financial resources.

Members expressed concern regarding funding for flood protection and the Leigh Flood Storage Area (LFSA).  The Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration indicated that further clarity around the deliverability of the LFSA scheme might be available at the Kent Flood Forum on 10 March 2016. 

With regard to broadband services across the Borough it was reported that Phase 2 would focus on Kings Hill, where the current service was inconsistent.  Members asked that the County Council liaise with local Borough and Parish Councillors as well as any landlord and landowner.

Finally, Members welcomed the new and improved signage at local retail centres such as Aylesford and Ditton which had received positive feedback for traders.

RECOMMENDED:  That the Borough Economic Regeneration Strategy Action Plan update as set out in Appendix 1 to the report and the priorities for 2016/17 set out in paragraph 1.3 be endorsed.