The meeting primarily focused on the approval and adoption of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Management Plan for 2019 to 2024. The council also discussed procedural matters and excluded the press and public for a confidential item.

1. High Weald AONB Management Plan 2019-2024:

   • The council considered the recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting held on April 22.
   • The plan was recommended for approval and adoption. It has been reviewed by various committees and aligns with both the adopted and emerging Rother Local Plan.
   • The Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) for the High Weald AONB, which includes a seat for Rother, also recommended the plan.
   • Councillor Paul Osborne, Chair of the Scrutiny Committee, confirmed that the committee had no issues with the plan and recommended its approval.
   • The plan was unanimously approved by the council.

2. Procedural Matters:

   • The minutes from the previous meeting held on April 8 were approved.
   • Apologies for absence were noted for Lisa and a cancelled attendee.
   • There were no additional agenda items or urgent decisions.
   • Members were reminded to disclose any interests or dispensations related to the agenda items.

3. Exclusion of Press and Public:

   • The council moved to exclude the press and public for the next item, which included exempt material under Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.
   • The motion to exclude the press and public was approved.

The meeting concluded at 18:43.