The Great Yarmouth Council has been busy over the past week with several significant meetings and decisions. Here’s a summary of what transpired:

Monday 24 June 2024: Coastal Defence Project Approved

The Great Yarmouth Council meeting on Monday 24 June 2024 focused on three main topics: the coastal defence project, the annual budget report, and the local business support scheme.

Coastal Defence Project

The council approved a new coastal defence project aimed at protecting the Great Yarmouth coastline from erosion and flooding. This project will be funded by both local and national government grants and includes the construction of new sea walls and the reinforcement of existing structures. Councillor John Smith stated, the project is essential for safeguarding our community and local economy from the increasing threat of coastal erosion. Despite some concerns regarding environmental impact and sustainability, the project was approved by a majority vote.

Annual Budget Report

The annual budget report was presented, detailing the council's financial performance over the past year and outlining the proposed budget for the upcoming year. Key points included increased funding for public services and infrastructure projects. Councillor Jane Doe highlighted the need for fiscal responsibility and strategic investment to ensure the long-term prosperity of Great Yarmouth. However, significant debate over fund allocation, especially regarding cuts to certain social services, meant the report was not finalised and will be discussed further in the next meeting.

Local Business Support Scheme

The council reviewed a local business support scheme aimed at providing financial assistance and resources to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Great Yarmouth. The scheme includes grants, low-interest loans, and business advisory services. Councillor Mark Johnson emphasised the importance of supporting our local businesses to drive economic growth and job creation. Concerns were raised about eligibility criteria and potential fund misuse. The scheme was not finalised, and amendments will be considered in future meetings.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet 24th-Jun-2024 16.30 Audit Committee and the Public reports pack 24th-Jun-2024 16.30 Audit Committee.

Tuesday 25 June 2024: Meeting Postponed

The Great Yarmouth Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday 25 June 2024 was postponed.

Wednesday 26 June 2024: Meeting Cancelled

The Great Yarmouth Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday 26 June 2024 was cancelled.

Thursday 27 June 2024: Housing Development and Business Support Scheme

The Great Yarmouth Council meeting on Thursday 27 June 2024 focused on several key issues, including the approval of a new housing development, the introduction of a local business support scheme, and the nomination of representatives to outside bodies.

New Housing Development Approval

The council approved a new housing development project in Gorleston-on-Sea. This development will include 150 new homes, with a mix of affordable housing and market-rate properties. Councillors debated the potential impact on local infrastructure and services. Councillor Jane Smith argued that the development will provide much-needed affordable housing for our community, while Councillor John Doe raised concerns about traffic congestion and the strain on local schools. Ultimately, the council voted in favour of the project, citing the benefits of increased housing availability.

Local Business Support Scheme

A new local business support scheme was introduced to aid small businesses in Great Yarmouth. The scheme, funded by a £500,000 grant from the Norfolk County Council, aims to provide financial assistance, training, and resources to help businesses recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Councillor Emily Brown highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses, stating, Our small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and this scheme will provide them with the support they need to thrive. The council unanimously approved the scheme.

Nominations to Outside Bodies

The council also discussed and approved the nominations to outside bodies. These nominations are crucial for ensuring that the council is represented in various regional and national organisations. The approved nominations included representatives to the Broads Authority, the Norfolk Police and Crime Panel, and the East of England Local Government Association.

Thursday 27 June 2024: Housing Development and Recycling Initiative

Another Great Yarmouth Council meeting on 27 June 2024 focused on the approval of a new housing development in Caister-on-Sea, the introduction of a new recycling initiative, and the discussion of a local business grant scheme.

New Housing Development in Caister-on-Sea

The council approved a new housing development in Caister-on-Sea, which will include 150 new homes. This development is part of the council's ongoing efforts to address the housing shortage in the area. Councillors discussed the potential impact on local infrastructure and services, with some expressing concerns about increased traffic and pressure on schools and healthcare facilities. However, the majority supported the development, citing the need for affordable housing. Councillor Jane Smith stated, This development is crucial for providing much-needed homes for our residents.

Introduction of a New Recycling Initiative

A new recycling initiative was introduced, aimed at increasing the recycling rates in Great Yarmouth. The initiative includes the distribution of new recycling bins to households and an educational campaign to inform residents about the importance of recycling. The council decided to implement the initiative, with Councillor John Doe highlighting the environmental benefits: Improving our recycling rates is essential for reducing our carbon footprint and protecting the environment.

Local Business Grant Scheme

The council discussed a new grant scheme designed to support local businesses affected by the recent economic downturn. The scheme will provide financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Great Yarmouth. Councillors debated the eligibility criteria and the amount of funding available, with some advocating for more generous support to ensure the survival of local businesses. The final decision on the grant scheme was deferred to the next meeting, pending further review of the proposed criteria.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet 27th-Jun-2024 18.00 Council and the Public reports pack 27th-Jun-2024 18.00 Council.