Issue - meetings

            The Board received a presentation from Martin Land, Liverpool City Region (LCR), on the Mersey Tidal Project. The project complemented the environmental aspects of the Council’s projects and was expected to provide the LCR with a clean source of energy generation.

            The presentation outlined the project parameters which included details on how much power (electricity) could be generated and the benefits of the project to the Merseyside region. In addition Members were advised on how LCR Officers would engage and listen with stakeholders and also the next steps to secure Government funding for the project.

            The Board discussed with Mr Land:

·         The need to raise the profile of the scheme and to obtain the support of the river community. Also the support of North West local authorities such as those in Manchester;

·         In response to a request for the more information on the environmental slide; the Board was advised on the work with the Wildlife Trust conducting bird surveys around the coast line and sharing data;

·         The potential for the scheme to bring employment opportunities to the region;

·         The lessons learned from the Swansea scheme and the alternative energy proposals in Cumbria and North Wales; and

·         The next stages in the process to obtain Government funding for the scheme.

            RESOLVED: That the Board note the presentation.