Agenda item

Cllr. Bottwood explained to the forum the background problems in terms of funding gap for the budget. The biggest problem is the large difference in what NBC will be receiving as to what NBC need to provide services. If NBC carry on as they are, eventually there will be a gap of £10 million. However, NBC are confident that they will meet the 2014/15 gap of £3 million. This is based on a 0% Council Tax increase.

Cllr. Bottwood went through the Budget in a minute. Further information can be found here: http://www.northampton.gov.uk/budget2014

This was then opened up to the Forum for questions:

Park Rangers

LB asked whether PCSOs do these jobs instead. Cllr. Bottwood advised that Park Rangers can work below the police in a friendly manner, advising on dog mess and litter dropping, and further engage with the community using the park.

Bus Station Demolition

Cllr Bottwood advised that although it will cost a lot of money to demolish, if it is left there, it will cost NBC much more during the years it is there for security, and ongoing costs. Cllr. Bottwood also advised that NBC are still in negotiations as to whether the site is taken on by legal and general to extend the Grosvenor Centre. If a decision is not made, the administration will look to other options.

Abington Street

The forum held different views around this budget proposal. Some members agreed that opening it up to cars etc. would hopefully make the street more vibrant. Also, will be better access, especially for disabled people. BB thought that there was no need for opening this up. LB asked whether it was possible to open it up only for Buses and Taxis to ensure it does not get too congested. AT agreed that Abington Street should accommodate Buses, with bus stops on both sides of the road, as it is a long way for disabled people to be able to access the top of the street and the businesses there.

Cllr Larratt highlighted that NBC does not deal with bus routes and that the bus companies would have to be consulted with this.

Cllr. Larratt hoped that this will replace a lot of the Disabled Parking that has been taken up with the new bus interchange. Also, it was highlighted that this would provide better access to Library.

RS asked whether there would be a loss of existing car parking spaces. Cllr Bottwood advised that there would not be any loss, only gain, and more drop off points/ short stay.  This proposal is still on the drawing board but the aim is to increase business into the town.

Other

AT asked what happens to the money put aside for the Decent Homes Standard in the budget that isn’t spent. Cllr. Bottwood advised that this money is ring fenced. However, the local authority wouldn’t be allowed to build up the money, it would have to spend it in the timescale set out.

Cllr. Bottwood is happy to attend the forum again in the future if any further clarification or explanation is required.