Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Head of Planning, Economy & Regeneration updating Members on progress with key Economic Development Service priorities.

The Group had before it, and NOTED, a report * from the Head of Planning, Regeneration & Growth updating Members on progress with key Economic Development Service priorities.

Consideration was given to the following areas:

Devon Hydro and Smart Grid Project (‘Mills Project’)

Works had been undertaken by Hydromatch Ltd in delivering a full feasibility study on Tiverton Weir and this had progressed on to pre-application discussions with the Environment Agency.

It would be necessary to register before March 2019 in order to qualify for any feed-in tariff. The Council had already begun this process with regards to the Tiverton Weir.

Enquiries and Investments

An update was provided on some of the businesses the team had worked with:

·         The Goonvean development was now well under way with 64,000 square feet being occupied and a further 30,000 square foot planned. The Economic Development Officer would let the Group know how many jobs had been created as a result of this.

·         There was a live planning application from Lidl which the GED Team would be commenting on.

·         The Hitchcock site was almost fully developed.

·         Discussions were being had with landowners around the three towns with a view to bringing sites forward.

·         It was reported that it was a positive time for indigenous growth with lots of investment opportunities possible.

Cullompton Heritage Project

Historic England had advised that the timing of any bid to fund a scheme for Cullompton needed to coincide with delivery of the relief road. It was agreed that this was seen as vital for the future prosperity of Cullompton.

Tiverton Market Events

It was reported that there had been no trouble at the recent evening events in Tiverton and that there had been a good atmosphere.

Discussion took place regarding what the Electric Nights events were actually bringing to the town. The Town Centre Manager responded by stating that these events had attracted people from far away. Food fairs were popular throughout the country and these events had introduced artisan food and crafts to the town. The reputation of Electric Nights was growing in and outside of the district which helped to generate income for local traders.

It was suggested that perhaps the turning on of the Christmas lights should take place at least a week earlier than was planned for 2018 but it was explained that this would have clashed with other events.

Notes:

(i) * Report previously circulated; copy attached to the signed minutes.

(ii) Cllr Mrs N Woollatt declared a personal interest as she was a mill owner.