Decision details

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule 22, a petition was submitted by Highcliffe Community Forum regarding the Council providing a space for a community hub to serve Highcliffe and the local area in any redevelopment of the Bar End Depot site.  The Mayor apologised for an error in the agenda as the petition had contained 353 signatures, and not 329.

Janet Berry (on behalf of the Highcliffe Community Forum) introduced the petition.

The Leader then responded to the matters in the petition as summarised as follows:

• The Council was to consider options regarding any potential expansion of the Boxing Club facilities at Bar End and would also take a wider strategic view of youth provision across the district.

• Since the Highcliffe Community Plan had been published, the new King George V Pavilion had opened, and this contained community facilities.  The Plan also did not reference the Winchester Sports & Leisure Park which has subsequently been constructed adjacent to the site. The Bar End Design Framework consultation had highlighted the need for community space at a redeveloped pavilion. 

• No representations had been received regarding a community space at the depot site during the Regulation 19 Local Plan consultation.  The Council’s community consultation regarding the depot site had concluded that a convenience store was the highest priority for local residents.

• Highcliffe has had considerable Community Infrastructure Levy allocated, although the spending here serves a districtwide purpose.  Other areas across the district have a more pressing requirement for improvements to their community facilities.

• The matters referred to in the petition would be included in the cabinet report of 15 October 2024 in order that the cabinet can consider them as part of that decision in respect of the depot site.  The report would also be considered by the Scrutiny Committee on 3 October 2024.

Council then proceeded to debate the petition and matters therein and in summary, the following matters were raised:

• Janet Berry’s advocacy on behalf of the residents of Highcliffe was commended and that this was of great assistance to the three ward councillors representing the St Michael’s ward.

• A quality redevelopment of the depot site to complement the adjacent leisure centre and King George V pavilion was crucial. The final development must be absolutely right for the local community and include a shop as had been requested by residents. 

RESOLVED:

That the petitioner be thanked for bringing the matter forward and it be noted that that the points raised in the petition would be included in the Cabinet report of 15 October 2024 for decision and in addition the report would also be before the Scrutiny Committee on 3 October 2024.