Issue - meetings

To consider the report which sets out the work the Council, acting as the landowner, is proposing to deliver works at Poynton Pool to comply with the Reservoirs Act 1975. 

The Committee considered the report which provided an overview of the progress made to date, and next steps, in relation to works at Poynton Pool. It was reported that a very strong response was received during consultation and engagement with the local Town Council and residents.

The Council as the landowner had statutory responsibilities under the Reservoirs Act 1975 to manage Poynton Pool – a large high-risk reservoir. Recent inspections had found that the reservoir did not meet modern standards and the Council would be required to either undertake works to address the issues or permanently remove water, reducing its capacity to take it outside of the current legislation.

It was confirmed that a meeting between officers and members of Friends of Poynton Pool was scheduled to discuss the concerns raised by the group and local residents. Officers extended the offer to meet to the public speakers present.

Councillor N Mannion stated that he was a member of the Northern Planning Committee which would ultimately consider the planning application surrounding Poynton Pool. Cllr Mannion confirmed that he would not participate in any debate or vote on this matter when it is considered by the Northern Planning Committee.

RESOLVED (by majority): That the Committee

1. Note that the Director of Growth and Regeneration will consider whether to submit planning applications related to this scheme.
2. Note that a virement for £780,000 will be considered by the Director of Finance and Customer Services in consultation with the Chair of the Economy and Growth Committee and the Chair of the Finance Sub Committee. A £580,000 allocation is required from the approved Strategic Capital Project and £200,000 from an earmarked reserve previously set aside for this matter.

Councillor C O’Leary voted against the above recommendations.