Agenda and draft minutes

To receive apologies for absence from the meeting.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Smith, Councillor Wheatley attended as substitute.

Confirmation of the Minutes of the meeting held on Wednesday 16 October and Wednesday 13 November 2024

Wednesday 16 October

It was proposed by Councillor Harding, seconded by Councillor Bach and –

Resolved:

That the minutes of the meeting held on Wednesday 16 October 2024 be agreed and signed as a correct record.

(Vote: For 5, Abstentions 2)

Wednesday 13 November

During review members noted the vandalism in Victoria Park, which had been discussed,  and it was asked that an update on the request  for improved CCTV which targets the playground be provided.  The Head of Legal and Governance (& Monitoring Officer) advised that the Public Health & Community Safety Manager had this work in progress and advised an update could be provided at the next Committee.

It was proposed by Councillor Harding, seconded by Councillor Brenton and –

Resolved:

That the minutes of the meeting held on Wednesday 13 November 2024 be agreed and signed as a correct record.

(Vote: For 5, Abstentions 2)

15 minute period for public contributions. The deadline for registering to speak is by 2pm on Monday 6 January 2025.

None received.

Members with interests should refer to the agenda item and describe the nature of their interest when the item is considered.

Members were reminded that declarations of interest should be made as and when the specific agenda item to which they related was under discussion.

Councillor Cottle-Hunkin declared an interest as a farmer, this was in reference to the main agenda item for the meeting – North Devon Biosphere.

There were no Part II items.

None.

An opportunity to hear from Andrew Bell, UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve Co-Ordinator, regarding the work of North Devon Biosphere.

Chair introduced Andy Bell, UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve ?Co-ordinator for North Devon Biosphere, who provided members with a detailed presentation updating on the work of North Devon Biosphere.

Detail was provided on the area covered and the diversity of the landscape, the governance and makeup of the biosphere and the work they’re involved in. The presentation went on to detail funding arrangements in terms of the programme delivery, and the benefits of this work for the community, landscape and economy.

The key areas of work (below) were then highlighted and examples of some of the work taking place under these themes were explained;

•           sustainable economies

•           climate change adaptation and mitigation

•           improving rivers and seas

•           pioneer policy for natural capital growth

•           linking people and biodiversity.

Work to grow tourism within the biosphere area, without environmental harm was detailed, as well as the North Devon Biosphere Business Partner network and the Green Economy Group. Work on Climate Change was explained in detail alongside the funding and set up of Biosphere Communities project and their work.

The presentation moved on to how the North Devon Biosphere were working to  reduce risks and the Reserve Co-ordinator noted specific work in terms of natural flood management and reducing pollution risks. During the presentation a number of projects were highlighted along with how the North Devon biosphere engaged with partners - local farmers, and other key partners like DEFRA, Environment Agency and South West Water were noted.

During discussion on the technology and data that the biosphere share and the impact of these projects and the data, members asked about the monitoring of water quality planned for the River Torridge. It was asked if this would use existing water treatment plants. The Reserve Co-ordinator confirmed it would be existing treatment works and the aim was to reduce the amount of surface water going to these.

Members then asked if there was the potential or need for an upgrade to these treatment works. The Reserve Co-ordinator felt this would be needed, given the scale of development taking place locally and in the future. 

Projects linked to CRITTER – coastal natural flood management – were highlighted in detail for members. Specific work with the salt marsh at Weare Gifford was explained, along with the work with land owners at East the Water to create a fresh water wetland area at Manteo Way. The benefits of salt marshes and mud flats for flood prevention now and in the future was explained.

The Reserve Co-ordinator went on to highlight Marine work that North Devon Biosphere were involved with, recognising the potential of off shore wind, and the possible impact and benefits that may come as a result. The possibilities that come from the marine environment as a whole and conservation work in the area were also highlighted.

Work to engage and connect with people through art and culture was highlighted, specifically work with Beaford Arts and The Shared Outcome Project.

Finally, the Reserve Co-ordinator highlighted  ...  view the full minutes text for item 288.

To review the action list.

Action 199 – Chair advised of work taking place in North Devon following the joint committee on Dentistry. It was noted that a petition has been taken to government  Reform of the Dental Contract. 

During discussion it was agreed that Democratic Services would email out the notes for the first meeting of the new task group set up by the MP for North Devon.

Action 220 –Members were advised that Councillor David Brenton  was continuing to attempt arranging a meeting with Bideford Family Centre. 

Action 273 – It was confirmed a letter had been sent to Devon Council Council and this had been acknowledged.

Action 283 – An update on CCTV at Victoria Park play area to be provided at the next Committee.

To review the Forward Plan.

Chair reviewed the Forward Plan with members and the following was agreed:

2 April 2025 – Committee to hear from the TDC Domestic Abuse Officer.