Agenda and draft minutes

To receive, note, and where requested approve, the reasons for apologies for absence.

An apology for absence was received from Councillor Goodman-Bradbury.

Resolved that the apology be noted.

There was no Part II.

To declare any disclosable interests relating to the forthcoming items of business (if any).

There were no declarations of interest.

To approve, sign, and adopt the minutes of the Town Council meeting held on 20 June 2023.

Members considered the minutes of the Emergency & Strategy Committee meeting held on 20 June 2023.

Resolved that the minutes of the Emergency & Strategy Committee meeting held on 20 June 2023 be approved and signed as a correct and accurate record.

To consider the proposed Communications Action Plan and resolve appropriate action.

Members considered the previously circulated Communications Action Plan compiled by the Events, Projects and Tourism Officer.

Councillor Heath joined the meeting at 2.10 p.m.

During discussion, the following points were made:

·         The Events, Projects and Tourism Officer was thanked for the comprehensive report,

·         There was a clear identification of the methods already used in communicating with the public and the need to rationalise some of these – one Member considered the Council’s communications to rubbish; the Mayor interjected at the unfortunate use of language and the Member withdrew the comment and apologised – they had been trying to make the point that due to various channels they were sure the public were aware of them,

Councillor Wrigley joined the meeting at 2.53 p.m.

·         There was appetite that a post of Communications Officer including community engagement may be required going forward to focus and enhance the good work already being undertaken – this would be reviewed by the HR Committee, and

·         The report should be tabled at Town Council for information to draw Members attention to the various communication streams currently in use.

Resolved that the report be noted, and the recommendations made be approved.

To receive an update from the Events, Projects, and Tourism Officer regards the emerging draft Emergency Plan.

The Town Clerk left the meeting at 3.05 p.m. and Cllr A. James left the meeting at 3.06 p.m.

Discussion took place on the update and recent flash flooding incident including:

·         Possible insurance claim for the Brook lights.

·         Tender document needed for Brook lights and feedback should be given on this in the next few days to Councillors.

·         Possible lifting of the Tuck’s Plot gates.

·         Triggers and warnings and how they should be responded to.

·         Sluice gates and effects.

·         No issues at the Warren when the flash flooding occurred.

·         Need to emphasise flood concerns so critical flood and drainage works occur by authorities.

·         Several traders did not have flood protection measures and there might be options for funding for these. Cllr Wrigley to investigate.

Resolved: that a vote of thanks was given to all the volunteers involved in the recent incident with a letter to one individual, and that the report was noted.