Contact: Merrick Denton-Thompson, ext 6826

1. Summary

1.1 The following decisions are sought:

(i) That the objectives for the future of the River Hamble set out as a vision in the document `Our Aspirations for the River Hamble Area' be approved.

(ii) That approval be given to these objectives forming the basis of a published policy document setting the format for all future River Hamble publications.

2. Reason

2.1 To provide an overarching framework for the development of a wide range of specific policies, strategies and programmes of work by Hampshire County Council (including the River Hamble Harbour Authority).

2.2 A copy of the report considered by the River Hamble Harbour Management Committee on 21 June 2002 is attached as an appendix.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Two other options were considered:

(i) not having any broad statement of objectives; and

(ii) pursuing individual policies by including a broad statement of intent as an introduction to each. Neither of these options were acceptable because they would lead to a lack of clarity and coordination in policies and programmes for the area.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or a Member or Officer consulted - none.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor K B Estlin

7225/MD-T

APPENDIX

Contact: Merrick Denton-Thompson, ext 6826

1. Summary

1.1 At the December 2001 meetings of this Committee and the River Hamble Harbour Advisory Committee it was reported that a consultation exercise was to be undertaken on the preparation of an overarching Vision for the River and its environment. The purpose of this report is to give an account of the results of the consultation and to set out the process for confirmation by the River Hamble Harbour Authority of the proposed set of aspirations.

2. Background to the Vision

2.1 The River Hamble Harbour Authority is required to produce a number of plans to meet its statutory obligations. The Harbour Authority also intends to work in partnership with the Crown Estate to promote the social, environmental and economic well-being of the area for the benefit of those who live near and who make use of the River Hamble. It was decided to prepare an overarching vision setting out broad aspirations that would establish the context for the development of individual plans and policies for the river. This proposal was reported to the last meeting of this Committee.

2.2 Following a qualitative market research exercise, and from the experience gained over the years by the County Council, a number of aspirations for the river were drafted for consultation, along with a questionnaire. These were sent out to local businesses, river user groups and other groups with an interest in the area. A small exhibition was held in Hamble, Bursledon, Old Netley and Warsash, from which 84 questionnaires were returned. The majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with all the aspirations set out in the attached leaflet entitled `Our Aspirations for the River Hamble Area'. A summary of the responses is also attached.

2.3 Although the results are not statistically valid it is proposed that the Vision set out in the document entitled `Our Aspiration for the River Hamble Area' be brought to the Executive Member for Environment for approval following this meeting.

Recommendations

1. That the report be noted.

2. That the Vision set out in the document `Our Aspirations for the River Hamble Area' be endorsed and submitted to the Executive Member for Environment for approval.

7209/MD-T