URL: https://democracy.ribblevalley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1321

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Director of Economic Development and Planning submitted a report updating Committee on the Haweswater Aqueduct Resilience Programme (HARP) project and to seek approval to appoint a part time Assistant Planning Officer.   It was noted that Cascade Infrastructure had been appointed to design, construct, maintain and finance the replacement of six tunnel sections of the existing aqueduct.    Members were given details in respect of the work programme, following the completion of the contract, and it was noted that as part of Cascade Infrastructure’s recruitment for the project, a Community Liaison Officer will be appointed.   Committee’s approval was also sought for a part-time Assistant Planning Officer, whose role would be to contribute to the provision of a planning development management service, specifically in relation to the delivery of HARP.  The role would be funded through section 106 contributions.   Regarding the planning application for the alternative temporary park and ride and HGV marshalling area to the west of Pimlico Link Road, Members were informed that an Independent Consultant had been appointed to review the impact of the development.  The scope of the work was detailed within the report.   Concerns were raised by Members in respect of the provision for compensation if businesses suffer as a result of HARP, and there was suggestion of commissioning an independent assessment of the potential financial impact of project.  Given the length and nature of the scheme along with the number of different businesses that could be affected, officers advised that obtaining such a report would likely be of little value. For a meaningful measure of the impact on businesses, it was agreed that there needs to be a baseline data set on economic activity.  Officers felt that this was something that individual businesses need to action and the importance of getting this information out to them as soon as possible was highlighted.  Once the Community Liaison Officer is in post, it will be key for them to engage with communities in this regard.   Regarding compensation, Members were advised that this issue had been reported to Committee on 28 November 2024.  The provisions relating compensation were contained in Schedule 12.1 (2) of the Water Industry Act 1991 and United Utilities had an established process for claiming loss of profits.    The Head of Legal and Democratic Services agreed to collate information for Member as to the provisions set out within the legislation, the procedure involved for claiming compensation, the appeals and arbitration procedures, and, if relevant, any case law.   RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:   Approve the creation of a part-time Assistant Planning Officer for a temporary 2-year period (subject to review) and refer the matter to Personal Committee to include the post temporarily within the establishment.

Date of Decision: October 23, 2025