Decisions

Cabinet considered the recommendation from the Local Plan Task Group to progress the new Local Plan on the basis of a lower housing need figure derived from proposed updated methodology in the Government’s recent consultation on Changes to the Planning System which is associated with the Planning for the Future white paper consultation.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

To continue to rely on the existing higher need figure.

Resolved to agree the recommendation of the Local Plan Task Group to proceed with preparation of the new Local Plan to meet our housing need in full on the basis of the lower figure emerging from the Government consultation on the revised methodology.

Reason for decision:

This endorses the views of the Task Group and will enable officers to proceed with Local Plan preparation and evidence gathering from a common position.  It will show a clear audit trail at the Examination of our Plan to show how it has developed.

Cabinet considered the proposed response to the Department for Transport’s public consultation on tackling pavement parking.  In England, parking is permitted on pavements and verges unless specifically prohibited by a local authority under a formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).

Options considered and rejected:

Option 1 – to rely on improvements to the existing TRO system

Option 3 – a national pavement parking prohibition

Resolved to support option 2 of the consultation to allow local authorities with Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE) powers to enforce against “unnecessary obstruction of the pavement”.

Reason for recommendation:

The Open Consultation will shape the Government’s decision over what option to take, moving forward. Each of the three options has distinct impacts on Spelthorne, and Surrey in general, so it is important that formal feedback is provided to the consultation in that capacity, regardless of the outcome of the national consultation that is open to all citizens of the United Kingdom. Option 2  is the most likely to strike the right balance between flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and immediate positive impact on the key issues identified.

Cabinet considered a report proposing a new Dog Control - Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to increase responsible dog ownership and adopt fixed penalty notices for any breaches of the PSPO.  A consultation had been carried out as required.

Options considered and rejected:

To seek an extension of the current Dog Control Order which expired on 19 October 2020.

Resolved to recommend to Council:

(a)       To make a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) relating to dog control with the listed offences set out in Appendix A to the report, in accordance with the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

(b)       Adopt the Fixed Penalty Notices for breaches of the Dog Control PSPO which currently stand at £100.

(c)        Delegate authority to the Group Head of Neighbourhood Services to issue Fixed Penalty Notices for breaches of the above PSPO.

Reasons for recommendation:

1.    To increase responsible dog ownership and the promotion of excellent dog care and control.

2.    To create high levels of enjoyment for all users in Spelthorne Borough’s parks and open spaces environment.

3.    To provide a safe environment for all users of Spelthorne Borough’s parks and open spaces including dog owners and their pets.

Cabinet considered a report proposing adoption of a Borough Playing Pitch Strategy for 2020 – 2035.  The strategy contained an assessment of all outdoor sports playing pitch provision in the borough by all providers.  It offered recommendations of actions to be taken to ensure a good supply of high quality pitches until 2035. 

Options considered and rejected:

Not to approve the Strategy.

Resolved to adopt the 2020-2035 Borough Playing Pitch Strategy for implementation.

Reasons for decision:

The Strategy provides a robust evidence base that will allow the Borough to plan, prioritise and schedule future outdoor sports pitch projects. It will help guide investment and provide the essential information required to apply for external funding. It is also an important part of the evidence required to inform the new Local Plan 2020-2035 and assist the Planning Development Managerment Team when making planning application decisions.