Agenda item

Report to follow

E.6/21          

The Executive considered a report that presented the findings of the public consultation exercise into the draft Motorhome Strategy in accordance with the request of the Executive at its last meeting held on 22 April 2021 (Minute E.84/20 refers).

In presenting the report, the lead Executive Member highlighted that:

-        it was his wish for the Strategy to come into effect before the May Bank Holiday weekend and half-term holidays had started;

-        this Strategy was very important for both the local tourism industry and South Hams economy; and

-        the number of consultation responses was commendable.  In thanking those consultees for submitting representations, the Member was of the view that the report recommendations demonstrated that the Council had listened carefully and had taken these comments into account.

During the ensuing debate, reference was made to:

(a)  concerns related to Anti-Social Behaviour.  To mitigate against any instances of Anti-Social Behaviour, Members were informed that measures would be put in place that included:

o  increased patrols in the car parks;

o  additional litter bin capacity; and

o  improved signage;

(b) night fishermen.  In reply to a specific question from a local Ward Member, officers asked that night fishermen be encouraged to contact the Council in order to obtain an express permission to be able to park overnight in Council car parks;

(c)  the proposals including the Cattle Market Car Park, Kingsbridge.  In reflecting the views of Kingsbridge Town Council, a local Ward Member expressed her disappointment that the Cattle Market Car Park was still included as part of the proposals.  In response, it was noted that the majority of the concerns raised by the Town Council had related to inclusion of the Quay Car Park, Kingsbridge and this had since been proposed to be removed from the pilot scheme.  In addition, other Members expressed their disappointment at the views of the Town Council and reiterated the need for the Kingsbridge economy to be in receipt of a much needed boost;

(d) the proposals striking the right balance.  Whilst of the view that the proposals struck the right balance, the importance of good management to ensure that the pilot scheme was a success was also recognised;

(e)  the use of local village hall and community centre car parks.  In the event of the pilot scheme being a success, Members encouraged parish councils to explore any opportunities that they may have to introduce similar provision within their local car parks;

(f)   advertising via short stay motorhome and camper van websites.  Members highlighted relevant websites that promoted car parks that were available for short stays and asked that officers contact these to ensure that the Council Car Parks were listed;

Before concluding the debate, a number of Members wished to put on record their thanks to the lead officer for her tireless work in reaching this project milestone.

It was then:

rESOLVED

1.    That the revision of the Motorhome Policy and Charges be approved (in accordance with Appendix A of the presented agenda report) for the following car parks only:

-        Longmarsh Car Park, Totnes;

-        Leonards Road Car Park, Ivybridge;

-        Poundwell Meadow Car Park, Modbury;

-        Park & Ride Car Park, Dartmouth; and

-        Cattle Market Car Park, Kingsbridge;

2.    That, for introduction on 29 May 2021, approval be given to the variation of the Off-Street Parking Order to reflect resolution 1 (above); and

3.    That it be noted that an outcome report on the pilot scheme will be presented to the Executive in twelve months’ time.