Issue - meetings

To consider the latest trends, priorities and pressures in terms of departmental performance as reported in the QSR for the fourth quarter of 2017/18 (January to March ) relating to Environment, Culture and Communities. 

Panel members are asked to give advance notice to the Governance and Scrutiny Team of any questions relating to the QSR where possible.

Vincent Paliczka, Director of Environment, Culture and Communities, informed members about variances on the Department’s budget, as outlined in Agenda Item 14. Current pressures on the budget included funding for Highways and a decrease in income from car parking permits. It was suggested a review of the uptake of car parking permits be carried out after the scheme had been in place 12 months. The Council had also received an additional amount of funding from central Government to repair pot holes in March this year and allocation of this funding was being agreed, although was noted the Council tried to repair whole roads rather than just potholes. Members were also asked to note that the waste collection target of 45% was unlikely to be achieved.

Members queried when the new facility at Easthampstead Cemetery and Crematorium was due to open and Steve Loudoun, Chief Officer for Environment & Public Protection, confirmed it was expected to be in use by the end of September.

The Director of Environment, Culture and Communities also outlined potential pressures in the future including the sale of Easthampstead Park Conference Centre; the Local Plan and services at Martins Heron roundabout not being far enough underground.

Members asked if there was an intention move away from QSR reports in the future and Governance & Scrutiny Officers informed members a technical solution was being explored to allow members to view information in a timely manner.

Actions

·         A review of car parking permits 12 months after implementation to be brought to a future meeting.