Agenda item

Councillor Nunn, as Leader of the Council, submitted his report and elaborated thereon. He explained that he had met with the NCC Children’s Commissioner to discuss children’s services and was encouraged by the observations made. He reminded Councillors of an upcoming unitary briefing session on 30^th January. He further stated that a Northampton West Steering Group had been set up. The next step would be to implement a Joint Committee before moving to an implementation board, which would comprise of 16 members.

The Leader commented that the trial Park & Ride service in the lead up to Christmas had been a success despite it not being widely advertised and stated that its continuation was important for the town’s long-needed culture change. Regarding the Queen Eleanor Cross, the Leader advised that Historic England had strongly recommended that the Cross remain uncovered, since condensation could cause further damage and a temporary cover could be seen as a “climbing frame” to some.

In response to questions asked, the Leader agreed that there was significant demand for family housing. The Leader confirmed a meeting between residents’ associations and heritage officers would be arranged for those interested in discussing the Queen Eleanor Cross; moving forward, he advised that briefings, possibly monthly, would be arranged to keep councillors updated with progress made. He confirmed that he would be happy to meet with the Councillor G Eales, as the Ward Councillor for Spencer, regarding the St James Mill Link Road and commented that regarding unitary business, there was no benefit in further lobbying Central Government. He stated that the current proposal was the best thing for the town.

Councillor Larratt, as Deputy Leader to the Council, presented his report to the Council and elaborated on the salient points. He noted that a report updating Members on carried motions was unfortunately not ready for the meeting but hoped that it would go to the next. He also clarified that there had been some changes to upcoming Councillor Development groups, new dates being as follows:

·         18^th February

·         9^th May

·         8^th July

·         16^th September

·         4^th December

Responding to questions, the Deputy Leader explained that a meeting room capable of webcasting would make it a more lettable facility in order to generate income. He confirmed that consultants had been appointed for the consultation element of the Community Governance Review would be ready to start the consultation process from the end of January. With regard to sports clubs, the Deputy Leader stated that work to secure the Fernie Fields club was ongoing, confirming that the Head of Economy, Regeneration and Assets was currently working on a lease.

Councillor Hibbert elaborated upon his report highlighting the importance of the Strategy and its aim to change lives. He informed the Council of a homeless person who had used the Night Shelter, had found it very beneficial and useful.  He had moved to Oasis House and had been very happy there but had since passed away. He stated that a review would be undertaken into the death of a homeless woman who had died on New Year’s Day. Councillor Hibbert emphasised the importance of rough sleepers engaging with Outreach Workers.

In answer to a question regarding assistance provided to rough sleepers with drug or alcohol addiction, Councillor Hibbert informed that individuals could be referred to the relevant Agencies but they must want the assistance in order to be helped.

At this juncture of the meeting, the Mayor announced that the time limited for Cabinet Member reports had been reached and no further Cabinet Members would elaborate on their reports.