Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Director of Growth & Chief Executive providing Members with an update on performance against the Corporate Plan and local service targets for 2017/18 as well as providing an update on the key business risks.

The Group had before it, and NOTED a report * from the Chief Executive and Director of Growth providing it with an update on performance against the Corporate Plan and local service targets for 2017/18 as well as providing an update on the key business risks.

Brief discussion took place regarding:

·         Whether there was still a problem with the amount of commercial land supply. It was explained that an Employment Land Review had been undertaken to inform the emerging Local Plan and Forward Planning are currently re-evaluating this work to ensure it is still fit for purpose. It was also noted that once the Local Plan is adopted that will release further sites. Similarly the Greater Exeter Strategic Plan will also be identifying additional sites for commercial development through its processes. There was increasing demand for space which was seen as positive.

·         There was also recognition that commercial development can occur in a range of locations, not just on those sites allocated in development plans, provided that they are consistent with policies.

·         A lot of the work that the Economic Development Officer undertook was to try and find spaces that worked for businesses.

Note: * Report previously circulated; copy attached to the signed minutes.