The Community Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Cornwall Council was scheduled to discuss the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service's Community Risk Management Plan for 2026-2030, the refresh of the Safer Cornwall Partnership Plan for 2025-2028, and the renewal of the Public Spaces Protection Order concerning dogs on beaches. The meeting also included an opportunity for public questions and updates from Cabinet Members.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Community Risk Management Plan 2026-2030

The committee was scheduled to review the draft Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2026-2030. This plan, developed in consultation with the public, partners, and stakeholders, outlines the service's priorities for the next four years. It addresses how the service will provide prevention, protection, and response activities to mitigate risks and improve community safety, in line with the Fire and Rescue National Framework for England. The plan details the service's purpose, values, and identifies key risks and mitigation strategies, including those related to incidents, people, places, spaces, and tourism. It also outlines the service's resources, budget, and partnerships, with a focus on sustainability, improvement, and the well-being of its workforce. The consultation process for the CRMP involved over 900 responses, providing insights into public awareness of fire stations, preferred communication channels, and views on safety education and response times.

Safer Cornwall Partnership Plan 2025-2028 Refresh

The committee was set to discuss the refresh of the Safer Cornwall Partnership Plan for 2026/27. This plan is the multi-agency crime and disorder reduction strategy for Cornwall, fulfilling statutory requirements under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. The refreshed plan aims to reduce the impact of crime and disorder, improve quality of life, and support vulnerable people and places. It is structured around six key outcomes: safer communities and public spaces; zero tolerance for domestic and sexual abuse; reduced harms from drugs and alcohol; early identification and support for those at risk of exploitation and violence; fostering compassionate communities; and standing together against hate crime. The refresh incorporates emerging risks such as online harms, unresolved trauma, and the importance of early intervention, as well as addressing community cohesion and managing tensions.

Renewal of Public Spaces Protection Order: Dogs on Beaches 2026

A significant item on the agenda was the proposed renewal of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for seasonal dog restrictions on Cornwall's beaches. The current PSPO, which expires in April 2026, requires review and consultation every three years. The report detailed the consultation process, which involved responses from residents, visitors, businesses, and town and parish councils. The findings indicated a general agreement on the principle of restrictions, though with differing views on the extent and balance of current measures. The proposed renewal aims to maintain a balance between the needs of dog owners and those who prefer dog-free beaches during peak times, while also considering the requirements for Blue Flag and Seaside Award status for beaches. The report outlined specific proposed restrictions for beaches with and without these awards, as well as year-round restrictions for conservation areas.

Questions from Members to the Cabinet Member on their update

The committee was scheduled to receive updates from the Cabinet Members for Community Safety and Public Health, Environment and Climate Change, and Tourism, Localism and Planning. This agenda item would have provided an opportunity for committee members to ask questions regarding the Cabinet Members' reports and their respective portfolio areas. The Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health's update included information on the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service's People Culture and Leadership Programme Review and the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Capital Replacement Programme for 2025-26. The Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change's update referenced the Resources and Waste Strategy Delivery Plan, and the Cabinet Member for Tourism, Localism and Planning's update touched upon the Digital Inclusion Strategy.