This week, the Cannock Chase Council held several meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Cared For Children and Care Leaver Committee meeting on Tuesday, 18 June 2024.

Cared For Children and Care Leaver Committee Meeting

The primary focus of this meeting was the appointment of key committee roles and updates on various initiatives supporting cared for children and care leavers.

Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair

The meeting began with the appointment of Councillor Carol Bullman as Chair and Councillor Saunders as Vice Chair for the municipal year. This aligns with the committee's terms of reference, which state that the Chair should be the statutory lead member for children's services.

Key Points:

• Chair Appointment: Councillor Carol Bullman was appointed as Chair.
• Vice Chair Appointment: Councillor Saunders was appointed as Vice Chair.

Updates from the Shadow Committee

Annie Britain provided an update on the Shadow Committee's activities, which focus on the lived experiences of cared for children and care leavers. The Shadow Committee meets one week before the main committee to discuss access to wider provisions outside of care services.

Key Points:

• My Voice Project: This project allows cared for children to have their voices heard and be involved in wider participation projects. It also includes life skills preparation and travel training.
• Positive Experiences: Young people shared positive experiences with social workers and inspectors, highlighting the importance of supportive relationships.
• Challenges: Some young people expressed the need for better support in areas such as mental health and education.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• I love my social worker, said one young person, highlighting the positive impact of supportive relationships.
• Domestic abuse isn't just about physical violence; make sure that our professionals are trauma-informed, emphasized a care-experienced young person.

Education, Employment, and Training

The committee discussed the importance of education, employment, and training for cared for children and care leavers. The focus was on providing interventions and support to help young people succeed in their educational and career pursuits.

Key Points:

• Apprenticeships: The committee highlighted the success of apprenticeships and the need for more opportunities.
• Bullying: There were discussions about the need for additional support for cared for children experiencing bullying.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• Good actual revision sessions to get you ready for exams, noted a young person, emphasizing the importance of educational support.

Health and Wellbeing

The committee also addressed health and wellbeing, including regular dental and GP check-ups. There was a call for more mental health support, particularly for male care leavers.

Key Points:

• Mental Health: The need for male mental health groups was discussed, with plans to explore this further through focus groups.
• Health Check-ups: Regular dental and GP check-ups were highlighted as essential for cared for children.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• It would be good to have a male mental health hub, suggested a care leaver, indicating a gap in current services.

Other Meetings

• General Licensing Sub-Committee on Monday, 17 June 2024: No video broadcast available.
• General Appeals Sub Committee on Tuesday, 18 June 2024: No video broadcast available.
• Highways and Transport Committee on Thursday, 20 June 2024: Summary not yet available.
• Cheshire and Warrington Joint Committee on Friday, 21 June 2024: This meeting was cancelled.

The discussions this week highlight the council's ongoing efforts to support cared for children and care leavers, focusing on education, mental health, and overall wellbeing. The emphasis on listening to the voices of young people and addressing their specific needs reflects a strategic approach to improving their lives. This theme of prioritizing the needs and experiences of cared for children and care leavers has been discussed in previous updates.

This week, the Cannock Chase Council held five meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Economy and Growth Committee meeting on Tuesday, 04 June 2024.

Economy and Growth Committee Meeting

The primary focus of this meeting was the ongoing development and financial management within the council's jurisdiction. Several key points were discussed:

Save Danes Moss Petition

The meeting began with public speakers addressing the petition to save Danes Moss, a local wildlife site. The Cheshire Wildlife Trust and the Save Danes Moss group presented their case against the proposed development, highlighting environmental concerns and the site's ecological value.

Key Points:

• Environmental Impact: The Cheshire Wildlife Trust emphasized the site's importance, citing the presence of over 1,000 species, including the threatened Willow Tit.
• Financial Concerns: The Trust argued that the financial compensation offered for the loss of the site was insufficient, estimating the true value at £5 million.
• Council's Response: The council acknowledged the petition and noted that the matter would be taken forward to the strategic planning board for further consideration.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• The destruction of biodiversity and stored carbon at this scale is unprecedented in recent decades. - James Melling, Cheshire Wildlife Trust
• Can we really justify destroying an irreplaceable habitat for such short-term financial gain? - Simon Brown, Save Danes Moss group

Financial Outturn for 2023-24

The committee reviewed the financial outturn for the previous year, noting a significant under-spend within the Place Directorate.

Key Points:

• Under-spend: The Place Directorate reported an under-spend of £3.6 million against a £94 million budget.
• Vacancies: A significant portion of the savings was attributed to holding vacancies, which raised concerns about sustainability.
• Future Planning: The committee discussed the need for a sustainable approach to managing vacancies and the importance of the ongoing transformation program.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• It's a positive outlook for this committee, but we need to ensure that this is sustainable in the medium term. - Peter Skates, Director of Place

Budget Allocation for 2024-25

The committee also discussed the allocation of service budgets for the current financial year, highlighting the need for careful financial management and the challenges ahead.

Key Points:

• Service Restructures: The committee identified service restructures as a significant challenge, with a £2 million saving target across the Place Directorate.
• Utility Costs: The committee noted potential savings in utility costs due to reduced electricity and gas prices.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• We need to look at our vacancies in the short term, but it's not sustainable in the medium term. - Peter Skates, Director of Place

Other Meetings

• Children and Families Committee on Monday, 03 June 2024: Summary not yet available.
• Licensing Act Sub-Committee on Tuesday, 04 June 2024: Summary not yet available.
• Southern Planning Committee on Wednesday, 05 June 2024: The committee approved a residential development on Middlewich Street, addressing previous concerns about drainage and flood risk.
• Environment and Communities Committee on Thursday, 06 June 2024: Summary not yet available.
• Crewe Town Board on Friday, 07 June 2024: Summary not yet available.

The discussions this week highlight the council's ongoing efforts to balance environmental preservation with financial management and development. The emphasis on sustainable financial practices and the protection of local wildlife sites reflects a strategic approach to governance. This theme of balancing growth with community and environmental considerations has been discussed in previous updates.

This week, the Cannock Chase Council held two meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Strategic Planning Board meeting on Wednesday, 29 May 2024.

Strategic Planning Board Meeting

The primary focus of this meeting was a significant housing development proposal, which included several key elements and concerns:

Housing Development Proposal

Key Points:

• Tree Preservation: The development proposal emphasized that no trees would be felled. A condition was proposed requiring future applications to submit detailed tree documentation to ensure protection.
• Affordable Housing: The site is allocated for housing under LPS 36, with 30% designated as affordable homes. This was strongly supported by Councillor Moss, who highlighted the need for affordable housing in the area.
• Infrastructure Contributions: The proposal includes a £1.3 million contribution to the active travel scheme along the A50 King Edward Road and the new roundabout scheme at Canute Square. This aims to address long-term infrastructure issues.
• Allotment Provision: Councillor Moss urged the estate to review allotment provisions, suggesting that additional areas could be identified across the Tatton estate.
• Sports Facilities: Concerns were raised about the lack of a playing field on the site. Councillor Marshall expressed frustration, suggesting that the cost might be a factor. Councillor Edgar acknowledged the concerns but moved to approve the application, emphasizing the site's inclusion in the local plan.
• Care Facility: The provision of a care or nursing home on the site was discussed, with concerns about its appropriateness and potential impact on the wider council. It was suggested that prior discussions with the council's director of adult social care should be required.

Quotes from the Meeting:

• I've listened to the medical practice requirements and I agree that the allocated funds from the S-186 are allocated to the developments but I'm pleased that Nick Holland has confirmed that this will be the case and it will be stipulated. - Councillor Moss
• I think we need to look at this whole application in the round. It ain't perfect, there never will be perfect but my overall feeling is I think I'll move to approve it. - Councillor Edgar

Decision:

• The proposal was approved with conditions, including further discussions on the care facility and sports provisions.

Audit and Governance Committee Meeting

The Audit and Governance Committee meeting on Thursday, 30 May 2024 was also held, but the transcript is not yet available.

The discussions this week highlight the council's ongoing efforts to balance housing development with community needs and environmental preservation. The emphasis on tree preservation, affordable housing, and infrastructure contributions reflects a strategic approach to sustainable development. This theme of balancing growth with community and environmental considerations has been discussed in previous updates.

This week, the Cannock Chase Council held two meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Licensing Act Sub-Committee meeting on Wednesday, 22 May 2024.

Licensing Act Sub-Committee Meeting

The primary focus of this meeting was the application for a new premises license for the Lettie Spencer Playing Field on Wybunbury Road, Willaston. The application was submitted by Willaston Parish Council to facilitate community events, including the annual Willaston Garden Party.

Premises License Application for Lettie Spencer Playing Field

Applicant Presentation:

• Willaston Parish Council applied for a new premises license to host community events at Lettie Spencer Playing Field.
• The application was informed by community feedback, with 93% of survey respondents supporting future events.
• The council has previously held events under Temporary Event Notices (TENs), such as the Queen's Jubilee celebration and a garden party, with no noise complaints reported.
• The proposed license aims to transition from TENs to a more sustainable premises license, allowing for a maximum number of events per year to provide flexibility.
• The primary focus remains the annual Willaston Garden Party, with potential for additional events like an open-air cinema.
• The council emphasized their commitment to noise control, parking management, and overall event organization to minimize negative impacts on the community.
• Safety measures include widening entrance gates for emergency vehicles and relocating waste bins and signage for clear access.

Objections:

• Tab Wilcox, speaking on behalf of Mrs. Wilcox and Carol Enzo, raised concerns about the frequency and scope of events, potential noise disturbances, and parking issues.
• Objectors argued that the application for eight events per year was excessive and could lead to significant disruption for local residents.
• They questioned the appropriateness of the premises license for the proposed events, suggesting that TENs might be more suitable for the limited number of events currently planned.
• Concerns were also raised about the lack of consultation with residents and the potential for increased anti-social behavior.

Discussion and Clarifications:

• The council clarified that the number of events listed in the application was to future-proof the license and provide flexibility, not an indication of their intention to hold numerous events.
• They proposed reducing the number of events and the licensable hours to address the concerns raised by the objectors.
• The council highlighted their efforts to manage parking and ensure emergency access during events, including manning the entrance gates and providing a contact number for residents to report any issues.
• They reiterated their commitment to community engagement and safety, noting that risk assessments and operational plans are in place for all events.

Decision:

• The meeting concluded with the subcommittee adjourning to consider the application and objections. A decision will be communicated within five days.

Other Meetings

• Licensing Act Sub-Committee meeting on Friday, 24 May 2024: Summary not yet available.

The discussions this week highlight the council's ongoing efforts to balance community engagement with event management and safety. The emphasis on transitioning from Temporary Event Notices to a more sustainable premises license for the Lettie Spencer Playing Field reflects a strategic approach to supporting community events while addressing residents' concerns. This theme of balancing community needs with regulatory measures has been discussed in previous updates.

This week, the Cannock Chase Council held three meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 May 2024.

Council Meeting

The Council meeting was significant for several reasons:

1. Mayoral Elections: Councillor Marilyn Houston was elected as Mayor of Cheshire East for the Municipal Year 2024-25. Councillor Arthur Moran proposed the motion, highlighting Houston's extensive background in local government and community involvement. Councillor Sam Corcoran seconded the motion, emphasizing her ability to work with council members and represent the council effectively. The motion was carried unanimously, and Houston was duly elected as Mayor. Councillor David Edwards was appointed as Deputy Mayor, with Councillor Redge Crane and Councillor John Ray supporting his nomination.

2. Appointment of Honorary Aldermen: The council appointed several honorary aldermen, including Mark Asquith, Penny Butterall, Byron Evans, Peter Groves, David Marin, Andrew Martin, Don Stockton, and Jackie Weatherall. Councillor Janet Klaus proposed the motion, seconded by Councillor Arthur Moran, and it was carried with a clear majority. This recognition honors their significant contributions to the community.

3. Special Recognition: A special meeting was held to honor former members Stan Davies, Paul Finlow, Aylith Harewood, and Steve Hogcoran for their meritorious service. Councillor Sam Corcoran proposed the motion, quoting John F. Kennedy to emphasize the nobility of public service: Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country. Councillor Rod Fletcher seconded the motion, and it was carried unanimously.

4. Financial Approvals: The council approved a supplementary capital estimate of £2.435 million for the A500 crew corridor project. Councillor Goldsmith explained that a new business case would be developed due to the cancellation of HS2, with the Department for Transport agreeing to fund the cost. The motion was carried with a clear majority. Additionally, the council approved the Household Support Fund Grant, a supplementary estimate of £2.2 million to support vulnerable families. Councillor Batron proposed the motion, seconded by Councillor Gilman, and it was carried unanimously.

5. Appointments to Panels: Appointments to the Cheshire Police and Crime Panel and the Cheshire Fire Authority were confirmed. Councillors Steve Edgar, Rob Morton, and Judy Snowball were appointed to the Police and Crime Panel, with Councillor Stewart Gardner as a substitute. Councillors Rachel Bailey, John Byrd, David Brown, Peter Cohen, Laura Crane, Nick Mannion, Jeff Smith, Margaret Simon, and Mick Warren were appointed to the Fire Authority. Councillor Brian Podecum was appointed to the adoption panel, and Councillor Carol Bulman was appointed to the fostering panel.

6. Acknowledgment of Outgoing Mayor: The meeting concluded with the council expressing gratitude to outgoing Mayor Rod Fletcher and welcoming the new Mayor, Marilyn Houston.

Other Meetings

• Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 May 2024: No video broadcast available.
• Crewe Town Board meeting on Friday, 17 May 2024: Summary not yet available.

The Council meeting this week underscores a continued commitment to recognizing public service, supporting vulnerable families, and making strategic financial decisions. These themes of community support and strategic governance have been discussed in previous updates.

This week, the Cannock Chase Council convened multiple meetings, with the most impactful discussions occurring during the Children and Families Committee and the Appointments Committee meetings.

Children and Families Committee Meeting

The committee addressed three main issues:

1. Household Support Fund Allocation: The decision to adopt a more targeted approach in distributing the Household Support Fund is a significant shift. This move is intended to provide transformational support to families, focusing on long-term benefits rather than immediate relief. The implications here are profound as they aim to fundamentally improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable families within the community.

2. Changes to Children's Center Services: The consultation to repurpose children's centers into family hubs is underway. This decision could reshape early childhood and family support services across the council area. By focusing on family hubs, the council intends to create more centralized services that can address a broader range of needs, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of the support provided to families.

3. Walking Routes for School Children: The ongoing assessment of walking routes to schools is a critical safety measure. Ensuring that children have safe paths to school is a basic yet vital aspect of community planning. This assessment could lead to necessary infrastructure developments, enhancing safety and possibly encouraging more walking, which has broader health and environmental benefits.

Appointments Committee Meeting

The focus was on refining the recruitment process for key council positions:

1. Amendment to Recommendation 1: The expansion of consultation in the recruitment process for interim executive directors to include broader council representation is a move towards greater transparency and inclusivity. This decision could slow the recruitment process but is likely to enhance its legitimacy and acceptance.

2. Recommendations 2-5: The streamlined approach to permanent recruitment following the organizational review is crucial as it aligns with the strategic direction of the council. This approach is designed to expedite the recruitment process, ensuring that the council remains agile and responsive to administrative needs.

Both meetings this week highlight a strategic approach to governance, focusing on long-term benefits and inclusivity in decision-making. These decisions reflect a continued commitment to enhancing community services and administrative efficiency, themes we've discussed in previous updates.

This week, Cannock Chase Council held two significant meetings that could impact local commerce, recreation, and residential development.

The Strategic Planning Board convened on Wednesday to deliberate on several planning applications. Key decisions included:

1. Sainsbury's Store Approval: The board approved a new Sainsbury's store, complete with a petrol station and solar panels. The store is expected to enhance local commerce and provide more shopping options. Concerns about increased traffic were addressed with planned infrastructure improvements.

2. Golf Driving Range Approval: A new golf driving range was approved in a rural area. Despite concerns about traffic and environmental disruption, the board felt the economic and recreational benefits were substantial.

3. Residential Development Rejection: A proposal for a large, eco-friendly residential development was rejected. Despite its innovative design and environmental focus, it was considered too large and potentially disruptive to the rural landscape. This decision highlights the board's commitment to preserving the area's rural character.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the enforcement of planning conditions, a recurring theme of community concern about development compliance.

On Thursday, the Licensing Act Sub-Committee addressed the application for a full variation of a premises license for The Studio on Castle Street. The main decision was to extend operational hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The approval was based on customer demand and a successful trial of temporary licenses, with no significant objections from the police or environmental health officers. This decision could boost business for The Studio by allowing it to compete more effectively with other local venues.

Both meetings this week reflect the council's ongoing efforts to balance development and commercial growth with community standards and environmental preservation.