Agenda

To receive apologies for absence.

To receive the draft Minutes from the meeting held on 27^th January 2025.

(A report by Christine Marshall, Deputy Chief Executive Corporate Development (S151))

Please note that in accordance with The Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014, a recorded vote will be taken on Budget recommendations.

(Members are reminded that if they are two months or more in arrears, they must disclose the fact and not vote on any item to set tax or any decision which may affect its calculation).

(A report by Christine Marshall, Deputy Chief Executive – Corporate Development (s151))

Please note that in accordance with The Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014, a recorded vote will be taken on Budget recommendations.

(Members are reminded that if they are two months or more in arrears, they must disclose the fact and not vote on any item to set tax or any decision which may affect its calculation).

(A report by Rob Barlow, Chief Executive)

(A report by James Gilbert, Assistant Director – Corporate)

(A report by John Medler, Assistant Director – Governance (Monitoring Officer)

(A report by John Medler, Assistant Director – Governance (Monitoring Officer))

To consider the following motions in accordance with procedure rule 14:

We the undersigned hereby request that the following Motion be submitted to the meeting of the Council on the 3^rd of March in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 14:-

Motion: Preservation of Fenland Landscapes and Recognition of Boston Borough as a Critical Food Producing Area

This Council notes:

1)    The unique and valuable characteristics of the Fenland landscape within the Borough of Boston, which not only provides a distinct natural heritage, but also contributes significantly to local biodiversity and the identity of our area.

2)    The critical role that Boston Borough plays as a key food-producing area, supporting both local and national food security, and contributing significantly to the agricultural economy.

3)    The potential impacts of national significant infrastructure projects planned for our area, specifically those related to energy generation and distribution at significant scale, which threaten to distribute and alter our valuable landscape.

This Council believes:

That it is essential to preserve the Fenland landscape to maintain its ecological balance, scenic beauty, and historical significance.

That protecting our agricultural lands is vital for the continued prosperity of local farmers and the broader agricultural industry, ensuring ongoing food production capacity and the nationally significant role that our area plays in feeding the country.

That any development or infrastructure project within our district must be carefully planned and executed to minimise adverse impacts on our landscape and agricultural productivity.

This Council:

Urges the relevant national authorities and infrastructure project planners to recognise the importance of the Fenland landscape and Boston Borough's role as a food-producing area.

Advocates for the implementation of mitigation strategies to minimise the visual and ecological impact of infrastructure developments, including the consideration of alternative technologies and routing options.

Encourages local stakeholders and residents, to engage in consultation processes to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns addressed in the planning and development processes.

Recognises initiatives that promote the sustainable development of energy infrastructure while balancing the need to preserve our natural and agricultural heritage.

Supports collaboration with other local authorities, including our partners within the South and East Lincolnshire Council's Partnership, to present a united front in the protection of our landscapes and agricultural interests.

By passing this motion, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the Fenland landscape and ensuring the sustainability and productivity of Boston Borough as a vital food-producing area for the benefit of current and future generations.

Proposer: Councillor Claire Rylott

Seconder: Councillor Stuart Evans