The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Neighbourhoods and Environment) presenting the Grassland Management Strategy which provides a framework for Southend-on-Sea City Council to improve the overall status and reduce losses in the diversity of pollinator species within the City.

Resolved:

1. That the Grassland Management Strategy, as set out at Appendix A to the submitted report, be approved.

2. That areas for grassland management be identified by officers in advance and engagement be undertaken with Ward Councillors, and residents’ associations, with wider publicity, on these areas.

3. That greater City-wide publicity to change ‘minds and hearts’ and encourage a culture change be undertaken.

4. That onsite notices advising of the changes and benefits, be provided.

5. That officers continue to engage with Councillors and communities in areas proposed for grassland management regime changes.

Reasons for decision:

To allow the delivery of the Strategy and its wider action plans, with the outcome that we have a more sustainable environment in Southend-on-Sea and “To see pollinators thrive, so they can carry out their essential service to people of pollinating flowers and crops while providing other benefits for our native plants, the wider environment, food production and all of us.”

Other options

Do nothing and retain the current management and maintenance standards – the impact would be that mowing regimes would not be conducive to enhancing local biodiversity.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: Place Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Mulroney