The Health and Public Protection Scrutiny Panel of Fareham Council convened on 27 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the adoption of a new Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, amendments to traffic regulation orders, and the panel's priorities for the upcoming year. The panel approved the new Anti-Social Behaviour Policy and discussed its implications for local enforcement and community safety.

Anti-Social Behaviour Policy

The panel approved the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, which aims to address and mitigate anti-social behaviour within the community. The policy outlines measures for prevention, intervention, and enforcement. Councillors debated the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for a more robust framework. One councillor noted,

The new policy provides a comprehensive approach to tackling anti-social behaviour, ensuring that we have the tools necessary to protect our residents and maintain public order.

The policy includes provisions for community engagement, support for victims, and collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.

Traffic Regulation Order Amendment

The panel discussed the Traffic Regulation Order Amendment 9, which proposes changes to parking restrictions and traffic flow in several areas of Fareham. The amendment aims to improve road safety and reduce congestion. Some councillors expressed concerns about the potential impact on local businesses, while others highlighted the benefits for pedestrian safety and traffic management. The decision was made to proceed with the amendment, with a review scheduled after six months to assess its effectiveness.

Panel Priorities for the Upcoming Year

The panel reviewed and set its priorities for the upcoming year, as outlined in the Scrutiny Panel Priorities cover sheet. Key areas of focus include public health initiatives, community safety, and environmental protection. The panel emphasised the importance of addressing health inequalities and promoting mental health awareness. One councillor stated,

Our priorities reflect the needs of our community, and we are committed to making tangible improvements in public health and safety.

The panel also discussed the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of their initiatives to ensure they meet the community's needs effectively.

Other Business

The meeting also included a presentation on the panel's portfolio overview, as detailed in the Panel Portfolio Overview Presentation cover sheet. This presentation provided an update on current projects and initiatives, highlighting successes and areas for improvement. The panel acknowledged the hard work of council staff and community partners in delivering these projects.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Public minutes of the meeting.