Issue - meetings

The Three Rivers Environmental Forum has operated successfully for many years. However, since meetings moved online during the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance has steadily declined. Participation is now limited to a small number of regular members, which limits the topics discussed, actions arising and networks created thus reducing value for both attendees and staff.

This report proposes a full refresh of the Forum, including a new name, updated Terms of Reference, and revised format. The aim is to create a more accessible, inclusive, and action-oriented space for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and community engagement on sustainability and climate-related issues.

Recommendation

That the Committee:

       i.          Approves the new name Three Rivers Environmental Network (TREN).

      ii.          Approves the revised Terms of Reference (Appendix 1).

The Chair announced that he was taking item 7. Environmental Forum Refresh of the agenda next.

TheClimate Change & Sustainability Strategy Officer introduced the report.

Key points include the desire to re-establish the network with a hybrid meeting format to increase accessibility and engagement, recognising the importance of sharing information and educating the public about local environmental assets such as Croxley Wood and the Withey Beds. Challenges highlighted include declining attendance, the need for clearer definitions of membership, and difficulty securing regular participation from key stakeholders like water companies and environmental agencies due to their limited capacity. The conversation also touched on aligning the Three Rivers Environmental Network (TREN) agenda with broader environmental and climate issues, suggesting focused meetings on specific topics such as water management, climate change, and transport to ensure relevance and encourage active participation. There was support for sharing minutes and updates from related organisations like ColneCan to keep Members informed.

The Head of Leisure and Natural Infrastructure to check with ColneCan whether their minutes can be shared with Members.

Councillor Jon Tankard moved the recommendation as set out in the report, seconded by Councillor Chris Lloyd.

On being put to the Committee, the motion was declared CARRIED by the Chair, the voting being by general assent.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee:

       i.          Approves the new name Three Rivers Environmental Network (TREN).

      ii.          Approves the revised Terms of Reference (Appendix 1).