Archived decisions

REPORT OF THE

CABINET/LEADER

PART II

RURAL DELIVERY STRATEGY FOR HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL - RESULTS OF CONSULTATION AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

At its meeting on 30 March 2009, Cabinet considered a report from the Chief Executive and Director of Recreation and Heritage (/decisions/decisions-docs/090330-cabine-R0323153007). This report provided an update upon actions and work undertaken following the initial report presented to Cabinet on 7 July 2008,

`Rural Delivery Strategy for Hampshire County Council - Supporting Hampshire's Rural Community' (/decisions/decisions-docs/080707-cabine-R0701220101)

Following the 7 July 2008 Cabinet meeting, a draft Rural Delivery Consultation Strategy was produced and distributed to over 100 stakeholder consultees. A consultation seminar was also organised and held at Sparsholt College on 14 October 2008 with the consultation responses received being assessed and the material received grouped in to themes.

A wide range of issues featured within the consultation responses including the need for effective local community engagement, the need for effective working with the voluntary sector, affordable housing; transport; access to services, including ICT; community facilities; skills development and training; and support for rural economy, particularly the land-based sector. There was a prominent parish contribution in the responses with a strong message around parish planning issues and concern over the agricultural land management sector. The importance of maintaining and enhancing environmental quality also featured in many responses.

To progress the responses received and emphasise the importance of seeking to rural proof council services, Cabinet approved the production of a final Rural Delivery Strategy for Hampshire County Council based upon the consultation results. The Rural Delivery Strategy would be supported by an action plan identifying how key areas of activity responding to the consultation would be dovetailed into existing service and business plans and also how new initiatives and partnerships could be taken forward. The final documents would be taken to the 27 April 2009 Cabinet meeting.