South West Regional Development Agency

Summary of the Key Points from the Board Minutes 7th February 2000

• A presentation was made by DTZ Pieda on proposals for a Spatial Prioritisation Strategy. Following a discussion and questions the Board agreed that it was content with the broad approach of the zonal policies proposed. The final policy paper would be prepared for the April Board meeting.
• A presentation was made by DTZ Pieda on the State of the Region Indicators and Targets. It was explained that Government will use information on targets and it is important to be able to compare the South West with other regions. Following discussion the approach to setting targets proposed was endorsed.
• A presentation was made by the Higher Education Regional Development Association(HERDA) led by Professor John Bull. It was agreed that small working group should develop a programme of joint working between the RDA and HERDA.
• The Board agreed to realign the seven Board Sub Groups with the seven Frameworks for Action. The Tourism Sub Group become a sectors working group under the Business Development Sub Group. The Rural and Urban Sub Groups should be remain but meet jointly at least twice a year and have a particular brief to consider regeneration issues. This proposal also means that three new Sub Groups would be formed Partnership, Infrastructure and Developing the Image of the Region giving eight overall.
• Board members were asked to note and support the steps being taken to develop the role of the Sub Regional Partnerships (SRPs). It was agreed that discussions on future development would take place with each of the SRPs during the course of the next round of Chairman/CEO meetings.
• The Board established a sub-group to consider and agree the Single Regeneration Budget Round 6 bids. Meetings would be in March and July.
• The Board agreed the summary of the RDA's Statement of Matters for the Public Examination into Draft Regional Planning Guidance.
• The Board agreed the proposals to fund safety improvements at Plymouth City Airport, subject to normal project appraisal criteria.
• It was agreed that three members of the Board would work with the Chairman to consider a number of land and property being proposed under for approval before the next Board meeting under Chairman's urgent actions