The Strategic Programmes & Assets Manager introduced the report which set out an update on the future use and leasing of Bartons Point Coastal Park, Minster.

The Chair invited members to make comments and points raised included:

·      The future of Barton’s Point Coastal Park was exciting but disappointing to see that the process had been delayed;

·      the process had been delayed because of careful due diligence and issues that were unexpected as a result of the ecological survey;

·      it was the Economy and Property Committee’s responsibility to take the coastal park forward and get it back into use for the best interests of the community;

·      did the boathouse café operate seasonally?;

·      the Economy and Property Committee needed to retain an interest in the dealings of Bartons point as it was a significant area of interest for residents of the Isle of Sheppey;

·      Barton’s Point had massive potential;

·      for a such a valued asset, why had it taken so long for a decision to be made as to the use of Barton’s Point?; and

·      was it more appropriate for the Economy and Property Committee to consider the future use of the coastal park?

The Strategic Programmes & Assets Manager said that the boathouse café was currently operating under a license that could be rolled forward. In the event that the current operator did not continue then it would be officers’ intention to secure another whilst the future of the site was determined.

The Head of Environment and Leisure informed Members that a report would go to the 12 November 2025 Environmental Services and Climate Change Committee for a steer on how officers should progress with the Barton’s Point Coastal Park.

The Head of Place said that the decision on Barton’s Point had been delayed as it was necessary to carry out the ecology survey over a period of 12 months. The survey had revealed specific conditions which created unique habits for the protected wildlife found on the site.

The Vice-Chair proposed that an update on the Environmental Services and Climate Change Committee decision be reported back to the January 2026 Economy and Property Committee. This was seconded by Councillor Richard Palmer and on being put to the vote it was agreed.

Resolved:

(1)   That the future occupation and use of Bartons Point Coastal Park (as agreed on 19 January 2023) be rescinded until further consideration of its potential by the Environmental Services and Climate Change Committee.

(2)   That an update report on the proposals from the Environmental Services and Climate Change Committee be scheduled for the January 2026 Economy and Property Committee.