Agenda item

To receive the report of the Biodiversity & Green Spaces Officer.

The Committee received the report of the Biodiversity & Green Spaces Officer  which provided an update on progress on of the Lake & Country Park Management Plan.

Members heard of the proposal to register the Country Park with the aim of it becoming a Local Nature Reserve. It was proposed by Councillor J Aitman and seconded by Councillor J Doughty that Officers proceed with the application and all Members were in agreement.

The Committee also discussed proposals to repair the well-used paths around the lake which had suffered due to the extensive flooding from the River Windrush; they also discussed the potential to widen some of the path to make them more accessible and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant. The Committee were in agreement that further investigations to cost be explored and conversations held regarding potential third-party funding. They were particularly pleased this was an item raised in the 2024 resident’s survey.

Resolved:

1.      That, the report be noted and,

2.      That, Officers apply for Local Nature Reserve status at the Country Park and,

3.      That, Officers proceeding with costings for the path repairs and potential widening around Witney Lake.