Decision details

This will be a reference report to the Cabinet with recommendations from Environment and Front Line Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee following the in-depth service review of greenspace services.

451/2004 The Cabinet endorsed the appointment of a new greenspace manager (to fill a vacant post).
452/2004 The Cabinet agreed to make interim and longer term improvements to the standard of management of greenspaces by more effective use of existing resources.
453/2004 The Cabinet agreed to instruct officers to co-ordinate the various greenspaces contracts and prepare tenders for a common contract start date in 2006, establishing a team to do this work under the new manager and allowing for both private sector and in-house bids.
454/2004 The Cabinet agreed to the establishment of a ranger service (at a cost of £470,000 per annum) (option two of the report) across all parks to provide a security, contract monitoring, educational and minor jobs service (e.g. litter scavenging) in the urban parks and open spaces, as part of the budget setting process.
455/2004 The Cabinet instructed officers to test the feasibility of attracting external partners to enhance revenue at the Country Parks through advert and a formal procurement process.
456/2004 The Cabinet agreed to retain the plant production facility at Cozenton, enhanced by the Skills for Life project and to explore all opportunities for additional and future funding.
457/2004 The Cabinet agreed to close the vehicle workshop and instructed officers to make alternative arrangements for the services provided.

These decisions will enhance the quality of greenspace services and improve the security of green spaces within Medway. The options address concerns raised by members of the public expressed during the consultation period.