The Council is facing an unprecedented set of challenges. The cuts in funding and the need to reduce expenditure increases the need to review the way in which we deliver our services, and how these can be done more efficiently, but still meet customer expectations.

The parks and open spaces within Brentwood are without doubt some of the most highly regarded assets operated by the Council and to ensure they are not only safe to use but also well maintained it is important that there is a focused forward thinking plan in place to direct resources and highlight areas for improvements within them.

The provision of management plans with structured programmes for improvements for the formal open spaces will help Officers to focus and direct resources where they are needed, manage resident expectation with regard to future provision and improvements and also ensure that value for money is obtained with the works undertaken.

Members praised Mr Anderson for his work on the Park Management Plans.

A motion was MOVED by Cllr Lloyd and SECONDED by Cllr Sapwell to receive the recommendations set out in the report.

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY to:

1.    That Members approve the management plans, including works programmes, for King George’s Playing Fields, Hutton Recreation Ground, Warley Playing Fields and Bishops Hall Park.

2.    That Members delegate authority to the Head of Street Scene, Chair of Committee and in consultation with Ward Members to instigate new working practices and efficiency savings in the provision of services for football and bowls in the borough.

REASON FOR DECISION

So that a robust and forward planning strategy can be put in place for the management of the parks and open spaces ensuring they are fit for purpose and safe for users.

Ensure that management plans are in place to allow robust and realistic budget setting to take place to ensure resources are allocated when and where they are needed.

To allow for opportunities to be identified to generate additional income or to rationalise the use of the Councils parks estate and the manner in which it is used to ensure maximum income is obtained whilst utilising the available resources i.e. sports turf provision.