Issue - meetings

Purpose of Report

To seek approval to enter into a ten year management agreement with Long Leys Residents Association for the general management and improvement of an area of open space known as ‘Hobblers Hole’ off Long Leys Road, Lincoln.

Decision

That approval be given to the Council entering into a ten year management agreement for the environmental improvement of a section of Hobblers Hole by Long Leys Residents Association.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None.

Reason for Decision

In early 2020 officers were approached by the Chair of Long Leys Residents Association, who was keen to explore the potential to improve the biodiversity of an ephemeral pond on Hobblers Hole. In addition, the Association was developing plans to undertake a range of other environmental improvements in the vicinity to create a focal point for the general public. The whole project had been designed to further galvanise the work of Residents Association and therefore presented a strong opportunity to bring the community together on a project to enhance a green space in the city.

In order for Long Leys Residents Association to undertake this work it was seeking a 10-year management agreement. It was anticipated that this duration would enable the Association to access external grant funding to realise their plans for the site. The site was identified in Appendix A attached to the report, with the essence of the agreement set out in paragraph 3.2 of the report. It was noted that the management agreement would include a range of terms, conditions and safeguards to ensure that the site remained available for the public at all times and to comply with the covenant on the land.

Councillor Neil Murray took this opportunity to thank Simon Walters, Strategic Director of Communities and Environment, for all his hard work and patience in respect of this project which he said was a very good example of how the Council could work with local resident groups.