Agenda and minutes

There were no declarations of interest made in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

To confirm as a correct record the Notes of the meeting of the Planning and Transportation Advisory Board held on 10 March 2015

RESOLVED:  That the notes of the meeting of the Planning and Transportation Advisory Board held on 10 March 2015 be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

Introductory presentation on the role and scope of the Advisory Board

An introductory presentation was given for the particular benefit of new Members on the role and scope of the Advisory Board, the main areas being planning and development, transportation, land drainage, flood attenuation and technical services.

The report of the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health provided an update on progress towards the Local Plan, Government planning reforms and any relevant strategic transportation matters since the last meeting of the Advisory Board.

Particular reference was made to the preparation of the evidence base for the Local Plan including advice sought from the consultants, G L Hearn and Partners, on the impact of the new Government Household Projections on assessed housing need for the Borough.  An outline was given of the Government’s starter homes initiative and ‘Right to Buy’ legislation which was likely to have a wider effect on planning for affordable accommodation.  Members also expressed concern about the potential impact on the Council’s economic regeneration efforts arising from the amendment of permitted development rights that allowed the change of use from shops or offices to residential.

The Advisory Board was informed that preliminary works on the A21 dualling had taken place with completion of the scheme due in spring 2017.  The report updated the position on funding for transport schemes in the Borough including Tonbridge Town Centre Regeneration and Snodland Station forecourt improvements funded through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. 

The officers responded to a range of questions and comments from Members.

The Chairman to move that the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting during consideration of any items the publication of which would disclose exempt information.

There were no items considered in private.