Issue - meetings

To receive an update from the Director of Culture, Communities and Business Services on the County Council’s country parks.

The Committee received a presentation setting out recent country parks updates and the impact of the pandemic on operations on site. Members noted the importance of country parks and outdoor space during the period of lockdown, enabling people to spend time outside in the fresh air which had a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. A service recovery strategy had been implemented, continually reviewing Government guidance to allow the popular facilities to re-open as safely as possible across the county. 

The Committee also received an update on the ongoing Country Parks Transformation programme, reviewing the projects that had already been finalised and upcoming improvements planned.

In response to Members’ questions, it was noted that:

·         Car parking charges were set at seasonal rates and that off peak charging had also been introduced encouraging visitors into the parks during quieter months.

·         Some site assets had been sold, such as houses that were previously lived in by rangers, and that there was no requirement for people to live on site.

·         The current country parks membership offer was under review seeking to make it more suitable for a larger proportion of visitors.

·         There were plans for a cycle hub at Queen Elizabeth Country Park to incorporate bike servicing, hire, storage and also would include electric bike facilities.

RESOLVED:

That the Culture and Communities Select Committee notes the presentation.