The Conservation Area Advisory Committee (CAAC) should receive backing from Reading Borough Council (RBC), but it should not be governed by the authority. And will instead remain an independent entity. Items from local leaflet printers could be used to publicise the position of the committee in relation to other institutions in Reading.
A report to a council committee has outlined who will be likely to feature in the membership of the CAAC, stating:
“CAACs normally consist mostly of non-local authority people who represent the interests of residents and businesses and who are able to bring expertise or understanding of the area’s history and amenity.”
However, a councillor may choose to stand on a CAAC. This is because anybody has the right to stand as a potential member in an election to this type of committee.
A broad range of people may want to participate in a CAAC. The report made to the strategic environment, planning and transport committee of RBC said that individuals with interests in heritage and architecture would probably join in. Members of associations of residents and entrepreneurs could also be tempted to play their part.
The new body is likely to have an influence on the outcome of planning applications which might impact on conversation areas. If particular areas are believed to be threatened by development, the group might choose to comment.