Contact: Chris Williams, ext 6720 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decisions are sought:

(i) That the highways and environmental improvement scheme for Hythe Promenade, as approved in the project appraisal of 15 October 2003 as part of the Country Towns Initiative, be reviewed to reduce costs.

(ii) That further sources of funding be investigated and, subject to the availability of funding, a revised project appraisal be brought forward at a future date.

2. Reason

2.1 Following receipt of tenders by New Forest District Council it has become apparent that there are insufficient funds to enable the approved scheme of highway and environmental improvements at Hythe Promenade to be achieved.

2.2 This scheme supports the following Aims of the Corporate Strategy:

(i) Aim 1 - (Maximising Life Opportunities) and Aim 4 (Building Strong and Safe Communities) by creating opportunities for the local community to address local environmental and traffic issues through public involvement and partnership working and incorporating measures for public outdoor events and features to deter anti-social behaviour;

(ii) Aim 2 - (Stewardship of the Environment) by improving an unattractive and rundown part of the waterside conservation area as a public amenity, reinforcing the County Council's pedestrian access strategy for the Pier and public transport interchange, improving highway safety and creating opportunities for developing historic and wildlife interpretation facilities in relation to Southampton Water; and

(iii) Aim 3 - (Achieving Economic Prosperity) by developing amenity potential of the Promenade and Pier for residents and visitors and helping achieve economic regeneration objectives identified by the local community.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 The elimination wholly or substantially of the boardwalk is an option which has been considered and rejected for the time being, as it is an important element of the scheme.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member 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