Issue - decisions

Resolved:

i)           That the content of the report be noted and that the commencement of the proposed changes in the management of verges and open space in selected areas identified in the report be agreed.

Reason: To build climate resilience and adaptation to climate change and improve the biodiversity of our green spaces by determining how these spaces will be managed in the future; recognising that not all changes can be made immediately.

ii)            That the content of the report be noted and that the commencement of the proposed changes in the management of sustainable planting across the city be agreed.

Reason: To initiate a move to more sustainable and pollinator friendly planting across the city by trialling new approaches commencing with key locations around the city centre.

iii)          That the report be noted and the amount of glyphosate used in the treatment of weeds across the city be reduced by moving to two sprays citywide.

Reason: To reduce the amount of glyphosate used in the treatment of weeds across the city delivering on the Council Plan.

iv)          That the Director of Transport, Environment and Planning be given delegated authority, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer and Head of Procurement, to take all steps necessary to procure, award and enter into contracts to deliver and effectively implement weed control treatments across the city.

Reason: To enable a contract to be put in place in a timely manner to ensure the treatment of weeds is delivered by an approved contractor and effectively monitored in line with budget commitments.

v)           That the Director of Environment, Transport and Planning be given delegated authority to trial alternative weed treatment options not previously trialled in York, so they can be appraised for their effectiveness and ability to be replicated across the city.

Reason: To inform the future direction of weed treatment approaches and to ensure the Council can trial any emerging technologies in an effective manner and can reduce glyphosate usage as soon as possible.