Issue - meetings

To consider and endorse or make recommendations on a proposed decision of the Leader

1.         The Corporate Director of Growth, Environment and Transport, Mrs B Cooper introduced the report, which set out proposals for the creation of a Sub National Transport Body for the South East.

2.         The Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, and the Corporate Director of Growth, Environment and Transport responded to comments and questions raised by Members, and made points including the following:

(a)  Discussions were ongoing about governance, and the relationship between Shadow Boards, Transport for London and the London Mayor. 

(b)  A link with London plans was vital.

(c)  A link with TfL would be beneficial to the rail structure in Kent.

(d)  Although the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) straddled the estuary, The Department for Transport were keen that the South East and Essex were kept separate in relation to these Boards, however, it was acknowledged that there would still be a strategic link.  In addition, the Shadow Board needed to look carefully at cross-channel communications.

3.         RESOLVED that the decision proposed to be taken by the Leader, in accordance with Article 10(1) & (4) of the Council’s constitution, to agree (a) to establish and participate in a shadow Sub National Transport Body for the South East, known as Transport for the South East (TfSE), at the cost ,for purposes and with the membership set out in the report, and (b) to the proposal to establish, and participate in, a formal Sub-National Transport Body for the South East also known as TfSE and with the same purpose and membership, be endorsed.

4.         The voting figures were recorded as 8 in favour of the recommendation, and 2 against (Mr Baldock and Mr MacDowell).