The Petitions Committee of Rugby Council met on Monday 24 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the proposed expansion of the Rugby railway station, the petition for improved mental health services in schools, and the request for additional funding for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Decisions were made to support the expansion of the railway station and to further investigate the mental health services petition.

Expansion of Rugby Railway Station

The committee discussed the proposed expansion of Rugby railway station, which aims to improve capacity and services. The expansion plan includes additional platforms, enhanced facilities, and better accessibility. The proposal received support from the majority of the committee members.

Councillor Paul Convery highlighted the benefits, stating, The expansion will not only cater to the growing population but also boost the local economy by improving connectivity. However, some concerns were raised about potential disruptions during construction and the environmental impact. The committee decided to approve the expansion plan, with a commitment to address these concerns through careful planning and community engagement.

Mental Health Services in Schools

A petition calling for improved mental health services in schools was presented to the committee. The petition, supported by NAHT Cymru, SCL Cymru, and NEU Cymru, highlighted the increasing mental health issues among students and the need for better support systems.

The committee reviewed correspondence from the petitioner and research briefs on the topic. Councillor Convery emphasised the urgency of the matter, stating, Our children are facing unprecedented mental health challenges, and it is our duty to ensure they have the necessary support. The committee decided to further investigate the petition and explore potential funding sources and partnerships to enhance mental health services in schools.

Funding for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

The committee also discussed a request for additional funding for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. The college seeks financial support to expand its facilities and programs, aiming to attract more students and enhance its offerings.

The committee reviewed correspondence from the college and considered the potential benefits of the funding. Councillor Convery expressed support, noting, Investing in the arts is crucial for cultural development and can have a positive impact on the community. However, some members raised concerns about budget constraints and prioritising other essential services. The committee decided to defer the decision and requested a detailed financial plan from the college for further review.

Correspondence and Reports

The committee reviewed various correspondences and reports, including letters from the Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport and the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care. These documents provided insights into ongoing projects and initiatives relevant to the committee's discussions.