Issue - meetings

This report highlights potential options for adding more equipment for young people into the North Drive Recreation Ground in March.

AGREED that Cabinet:

·         Instructs officers to proceed with a community consultation regarding the option of either a skate park or a BMX Pump track in the location described above on the open space at North Drive Recreation Ground in March.

·         Notes the original space discussed by Cabinet in November 2024 to be designated as space required for biodiversity net gain following the development of either a skate park or BMX pumping track.

Members considered the Fenland Inspire! Project regarding North Drive Recreation Ground report presented by Councillor Seaton.

·         Councillor Mrs French welcomed the report as North Drive is the most deprived area of March in terms of so few facilities, and it is time that the children had something there.

·         Councillor Tierney stated that it is important to get the consultation right; often young people will either be unaware of a consultation or not respond. It is important for them to have a voice as what they want and will use may be different to what older people decide. They must therefore be given a good chance to engage.

·         Councillor Boden agreed and asked that officers take that on board; he requested that they be open and pay attention to what young people ask for and not just give them a choice between a or b.

·         Councillor Seaton said these are good points and that he has instructed officers to ensure the younger element are taken note of during consultation and given every opportunity to contribute.

Proposed by Councillor Seaton, seconded by Councillor Mrs French and AGREED that Cabinet:

·         Instructs officers to proceed with a community consultation regarding the option of either a skate park or a BMX Pump track in the location described above on the open space at North Drive Recreation Ground in March.

·         Notes the original space discussed by Cabinet in November 2024 to be designated as space required for biodiversity net gain following the development of either a skate park or BMX pumping track.