9 The Regeneration of former RAF Scampton PDF 545 KB
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Minutes:
Members of the Committee heard from the Chief Executive who introduced the report. It was explained that a report that had been requested by the Committee to update members on progress at the former RAF Scampton, and to outline the manner in which the project had been managed. It was stated that considerable lessons had been learnt during the previous three years and that, in most respects, the chosen approach had proved sound. The Chief Executive confirmed that a clear and compelling vision for change had been formulated and widely communicated with local Members of Parliament, neighbouring districts, and parish councils. The process by which the Council had secured a well-connected private-sector partnership was subsequently outlined.
The Chief Executive continued, explaining that weekly multi-agency meetings had been convened and had drawn representatives from a wide variety of sources. Despite the differing national objectives imposed upon those agencies, it was confirmed that strong local collaboration had been sustained. The contributions made by colleagues in public health, Lincolnshire County Council, City of Lincoln Council, and the police were acknowledged with gratitude.
The presentation continued, with the Chief Executive explaining that governance processes were tested but had been upheld through the use of extraordinary or combined Committees where necessary. In terms of enforcement powers, these powers had been exercised, including resort to the courts, thereby demonstrating that action against Central Government was possible. It was stated that the response of the Government had been to issue a Special Development Order, the requirements of which continued to bind the Home Office even after its original plans had been withdrawn.
In terms of future plans for the site, it was stated that a site-specific policy had been inserted into the Local Plan, thereby obliging any future owner to agree a masterplan with the authority before undertaking works. It was highlighted that any transfer to the authority from the Home Office would be purely transitory, as the intention remained to pass the asset to the developer immediately. The Chief Executive concluded by inviting comments from the Committee.
The Chairman noted that, when the matter of the former RAF Scampton had first been raised, numerous questions had been asked. Over time, those questions had been answered, and progress had been made. It was stated that the most appropriate course of action was now to move forward, expressing hope that a resolution would be reached that served the best interests of the residents of West Lindsey.
The Vice-Chairman Cllr Dobbie commented on the importance of the Council's engagement with councils in the affected area, describing this aspect of the process as exemplary. The limited communication from central authorities was acknowledged, and it was emphasised that efforts had been made to ensure that local communities were kept informed to the greatest extent possible.
With no further comments or questions, the Regeneration of former RAF Scampton report was DULY NOTED.