Issue - meetings

To consider the Water Resources East report.

Councillor Pepper presented the report on the Council applying to become a member of Water Resource East Ltd.

Councillor Pavitt seconded the recommendation and said the scheme was relevant to Uttlesford as the district shared the chalk aquifer with Cambridge and other local authorities in the eastern housing market place. He said he had spoken to the Managing Director of the company and had been impressed with their approach. The end goal was to find a solution to the long term problem of sustainable water resources.

In response to a question from Councillor Barker, Councillor Pepper said herself and Councillor Pavitt would represent the Council on the forum.

In response to a question from Cllr Bagnall regarding how this would impact on Planning and the Local Plan, Councillor Pepper said lead planning officers were included in discussions with Water Resources East. Councillor Pavitt added that this was not a policy making body, but rather a forum to explore ideas and potential strategies.  

In response to a question from Councillor Evans, Members were informed that the only associated cost was £1 liability.

RESOLVED that Uttlesford District Council applies to become a Standard Member of Water Resources East (WRE) Ltd.

The motion was carried unanimously.