The Chief Officer Communities and Business presented a report which sought comments from Members on the District Council’s Consultation Draft of the Economic Development Strategy.  She advised that it was a very early draft arising from the workshop Members had attended previously as well as the results of a considerable number of workshops held with interested groups over the last few months.  It was proposed to send the draft strategy out for consultation over the summer months with a view to bringing back a final draft to Committee in October.  Members were asked to take it away and feed back any comments to the report author within the next three weeks, copying the Chairman in.

Members discussed the document.  During discussions it was agreed that  transport and infrastructure especially around the New Ash Green area and Swanley should be added.  Comments included the need for quality  hotel accommodation for tourists and businesses within the District; lack of training facilities and more connections needed with colleges outside the district; and transport links.

Members were asked to take it away and feed back any comments to the report author within the next three weeks, copying the Chairman in.

Action 3:  Chief Officer Communities and Business to circulate the most recent health profiling information.

Resolved:  That Members send in any further comments.