Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report of the Strategic Director (Place and Environment).

The Climate Change Officer presented the report on the Establishment of a Climate and Nature Forum.

Members were advised that the report sought disband the existing Climate Change Project Advisory Group (PAG) and replace it with a new body, the Climate and Nature Forum. The Forum, which like the PAG would not be a decision-making body but would be advisory, would offer the potential for wider representation including representatives from Kent County Council, the four town councils and local community groups.

The terms of reference for the new Forum would be discussed at the first meeting of the Forum. It was intended that the Forum would meet on a quarterly basis with other groups, such as the RSPB or Kent Wildlife Trust, being invited to the Forum as required.

Councillor C A Vinson expressed concern that this was reverting back to something similar to the previous Climate Change Working Group that had been changed to a PAG due to concerns over its effectiveness.

It was agreed to note the report.

To consider the attached report of the Strategic Director (Place and Environment).

Responsibility: Portfolio Holder for Finance, Governance, Climate Change and Environment

It was agreed that the Climate Change Project Advisory Group be disbanded and a Climate and Nature Forum be established in its place.