- The meeting had been called to discuss and consider a quotation for the repair of breaches along the River Stour footpath in Shotley Gate.
- The breaches had occurred during storms in early 2007. Due to the importance of the path as an amenity for local people and visitors, SPC had been working since then to seek a way of working with others to secure repairs, whilst responsibilities were complex and unclear.
- The quote had been provided by the sub-contractor currently working for the Marina on King Edward VII Drive. This was considered as a unique opportunity to repair the breaches. Due to the circumstances, there was a very short time frame within which the contractor could undertake this work at this price.
- Several potential sources of external funding contributions had been found by SPC, including from SCC, but little of it was certain at this stage.
- A view was held by some, that the County Council was the statutory agency with the responsibility to fund the repair, and SPC should therefore only take responsibility for funding part of the cost.
- Following a debate, including contributions from the 7 members of the public present, a proposal was put forward that, if the necessary insurance and health and safety documentation was supplied, the Parish Council would accept the quote and ask the contractor to proceed, potentially taking the risk of having to fund the whole cost (if other sources did not materialise).
- This proposal was agreed on a vote.
- Next meeting: 21 February 2008 (village hall).
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