Consideration was given to the final draft of the Sustainable Community Strategy. The Strategy had been considered by the Sustainable Communities Scrutiny Committee on 15 July and the following comments had been made: -
· The document was well written and clear.
· A clear definition of a town is needed – the Strategy should refer to the fact that the LDF process will address this.
· Members questioned whether or not producing such a strategy represented value for money.
· Members noted that the strategy was aspirational and not compulsory.
· Members were disappointed that the contribution of agriculture, rural economy and productiveness of land, had not been given sufficient emphasis or greater reference, throughout the strategy.
· That any reference to the PCT should be replaced with health services
In considering these comments it was agreed by Cabinet that the following words be inserted as an additional bullet point under the heading ‘We have a strong, sustainable economy’ on page 17 (Cheshire East in 2005, Our Vision):-
‘Farming and agriculture are valued and supported for the contribution they make to Cheshire East’s economy and the distinctiveness of our rural communities.’
RESOLVED
For the reasons set out and as now reported: -
That Council be recommended to adopt the Sustainable Community Strategy, subject to the inclusion of the additional words detailed above.