Agenda item

(Copy herewith)

Councillor Markham, as the Leader of the Council, submitted her Cabinet Member report and elaborated thereon. She explained that she was committed to working with Leaders of all Councils in Northamptonshire to review and promote consideration of local government reorganisation. She further noted that LGSS would continue to provide Finance, Revenues and Benefits and IT Services, noting that the delegation of HR and legal services would end in 2017. She further elaborated on the Rough Sleepers Strategy which would be considered by Cabinet on the 8^th June, to manage the issue of rough sleepers in Northampton.

In response to questions asked, Councillor Markham confirmed that the Greyfriars site would not accommodate any buses. She further noted that the potential development of the site was not going to be a temporary job, but that the longevity of the development was of utmost importance. Responding to further questions it was explained that with regards to LGSS, the contract entered into had been partly for cost-cutting reasons, but that there was the need to realign the service.

Councillor Nunn submitted his Cabinet Member report and noted the commitment of the Council to the improvement of the Town Centre, stating it was a top priority. He stated that Northampton were very lucky to have major sporting teams and welcomed all of their achievements.

In response to questions asked, Councillor Nunn stated that boosting retail in the Town Centre was a priority, but explained that the current financial climate was unfortunate but that the Administration were committed to making the Town Centre as attractive, clean and as safe as possible for visitors and residents. Responding to further questions, he confirmed that he would be urging the sports clubs to take on apprenticeships and would encourage and try to facilitate sports clubs working with schools. He commented he would be happy to discuss, with the Ward Councillor, the situation of Thorplands Club 81 and the possibility of arranging a pavilion. He further commented that he would work with the Ward Councillor in East Hunsbury to look at proposed changes to the football pitches.

Councillor Hadland submitted his Cabinet Member report and elaborated thereon. In response to questions asked, he confirmed that he would be working with the Railway Station to ensure the safety of disabled people using the facilities.

Councillor Hallam submitted his Cabinet Member report and reported that a night time economy weekend multi-agency hub had been established in partnership with McDonald’s at their premises on the Drapery. It was also noted that the Town Centre BID was also funding ‘Street Wardens’ who would provide additional support in key areas of the Town Centre.

In response to questions asked, Councillor Hallam explained that there were numerous reasons for increased overall crime figures including an increased number of thefts from motor vehicles due to expensive technology being left on display to changes in the reporting of some crimes such as domestic abuse. He further explained that tackling violent crime was a priority of the Council and that the collaborative working with streets pastors would help to ensure safety.

At this juncture, Councillor Larratt proposed the suspension of Council procedural rule 25 to extend the period of time for the Cabinet Member Presentations. This was seconded by Councillor Beardsworth.  This was voted upon and was carried.

Councillor King elaborated on her Cabinet Member report and explained that whilst there had been a reduction in the amounts that some organisations had received, the funding was limited. In response to questions asked, Councillor King commented that she would work with officers and members of the Disabled People’s Forum to explain the position of reduced funding to Shopmobility and commented that she had already assisted some people by helping them apply for grant applications.  Responding to further questions, Councillor King explained that she would be happy to share the Equality Impact Assessment information with regards to those awarded funding to gather information regarding age, sex and ethnicity. In response to a further question, Councillor King commented that an urgent Forum meeting would be arranged which she would attend to address and answer any concerns.