FOI Request - Cooper Park Works

Request 101003995097

I'd like to make a FOI request regarding the works at Cooper Park, please. I'd like to know the following:

1. What was the original planned completion date for the current park works, and what were the reasons for this being extended?

2. The project has been funded by the award of £18 million to the council from the UK government's levelling up fund - how much money has this project cost so far, what is the total budget for the project, and how much of this funding is projected to be left for other uses upon completion?

3. Did the ecological consultants appointed by the council advise of a risk to the health of the wildlife (particularly swans) in the pond resulting from the works on their habitat? If so, what was the advice given to mitigate this risk and were these measures implemented?

4. Was the incident where a swan died following removal from its habitat reported to a police wildlife crime officer or a relevant statutory body (e.g. NatureScot)?

5. Did any councillors or members of committees relevant to this project declare conflicts of interest where this project was being discussed and implemented? If so, what were they?

6. Has the council initiated an internal investigation into a potential breach of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 resulting from the emptying of Cooper Pond, which was a habitat for at least one protected species?