Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development providing an update on the supply of burial space within north east Leeds, the preparation of a masterplan for the Whinmoor Grange site and the outcome of feasibility works undertaken to explore the potential to deliver a 5 acre cemetery on the site of the former Elmete Caravan Park. In addition, the report seeks approval of the Draft Planning Statement for Whinmoor Grange as a basis for public consultation, whilst also seeking approval of related expenditure.

Further to Minute No. 153, 3^rd December 2008, the Acting Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the progress made regarding the supply of burial space within north east Leeds, the preparation of a masterplan for the Whinmoor Grange site and the outcome of feasibility works undertaken to explore the potential to deliver a 5 acre cemetery on the site of the former Elmete Caravan Park. In addition, the report also sought approval of the Draft Planning Statement for Whinmoor Grange as a basis for public consultation, whilst also seeking approval to the incurring of related expenditure.

The report noted and provided details of an Equality Impact Assessment which had been undertaken in 2008 in respect of the proposed 50 year Burial Strategy, a matter which was considered by the Board at that time. However, since 2008, the report highlighted that there had been consultation with planning, legal, highways and specific faith groups, in addition to site visits with Ward Members, in relation to the proposals to develop Elmete and Whinmoor. The report also noted that the Equality Impact Assessment would be updated to reflect the ongoing consultations which were being undertaken with all faith groups in relation to the city’s long term burial supply.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the current position regarding the implementation of the proposals agreed at the Executive Board meeting in December 2008 be noted.

(b)  That the Draft Informal Planning Statement for Whinmoor Grange be approved for the purposes of a public consultation exercise which is to be undertaken over 4 a week period, with the findings being reported back to Executive Board.

(c)  That approval be given to the incurring of £309,579 expenditure on the construction of a 5 acre cemetery at Whinmoor (Cemetery Exts City Wide – Green Schemes, Scheme Number 1358).

(d)  That the proposal to move forward with a planning application for a cemetery at the former Elmete caravan park be noted.