Issue - meetings

This matter is the responsibility of Executive Councillor for Asset Management and Economic Development, Councillor Marcus Kravis.

This report sets out the current situation with the East Quay wall, Watchet and the options that the Council have to maintain this asset into the future.  It does not seek approval of a permanent solution for the repair at Splash Point, this will be dealt with separately once possible design options have been established, but does request financial approval of the design work for this permanent repair.

Recommended that the Executive requested Full Council approve the following additions to the Capital Programme, which would be funded through borrowing:

1)    Add the following to the Capital Programme for 2019/20

a.    The sum of £100,000 be allocated to the wall design works at Splash Point; and

b.    The sum of £100,000 be allocated to the wall design works at East Quay.

2)    Add the following to the Capital Programme for 2020/21

a.    The sum of £500,000 be allocated to reinforce the East Quay wall in the central section; and

b.    The sum of £40,000 for project management resource to deliver this project to its conclusion.

During the discussion, the following points were raised:-

·         Concern was raised on the wall and that a very large section had collapsed, but they acknowledged that was due to the age of the structure along with the effects of climate change.

·         Councillors supported the work and wanted to see Watchet grow and be a key part in the economic development of the district.

·         Councillors believed that the work had given the community trust in the Council and that they would carry out similar work when needed in the wider area of the district.  They stated that it was good to see that the asset was in such capable hands.

·         Councillors thanked the officers for all their hard work on the project and the presentation given on the item.

·         Councillors supported the recommendations.

Recommended that the Executive requested Full Council approve the following additions to the Capital Programme, which would be funded through borrowing:

1)    Add the following to the Capital Programme for 2019/20

a.    The sum of £100,000 be allocated to the wall design works at Splash Point; and

b.    The sum of £100,000 be allocated to the wall design works at East Quay.

2)    Add the following to the Capital Programme for 2020/21

a.    The sum of £500,000 be allocated to reinforce the East Quay wall in the central section; and

b.    The sum of £40,000 for project management resource to deliver this project to its conclusion.