In the last 7 days (since Saturday 15 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Council on Monday 17 June 2024.
2. Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous on Tuesday 18 June 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Council meeting on Monday 17 June 2024. This meeting covered several key topics, including the transition of housing management back to Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC), capital investments to reduce energy usage, and council appointments.

Housing Transition and Governance Arrangements

One of the major decisions made during the meeting was the approval of new governance arrangements to reflect the return of housing management to CBC. This decision follows the council's earlier pledge to wind up Cheltenham Borough Homes and place the voice of tenants and leaseholders at the heart of housing services. The new structure includes the establishment of a Housing Cabinet Committee, a Tenant Panel, and a Leaseholder and Shared Ownership Panel. Councillor Haye emphasized the importance of tenant involvement, stating:

The structure seeks to ensure effective engagement with tenants, leaseholders, and shared ownership owners, and provide members with the required level of oversight that will be needed.

The new governance framework aims to create ways for residents to play an essential part in shaping CBC's housing services moving forward.

Capital Investments to Reduce Energy Usage

The council also approved capital investments aimed at reducing energy usage at Leisure at Cheltenham. Councillor Dobie, the Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, introduced the item, highlighting its alignment with the council's net-zero action plan. The investments include the purchase of pool covers and modern LED lighting, which are expected to generate significant returns on investment and reduce carbon emissions. Councillor Dobie noted:

Both of the described investments will reduce energy use and hence costs. Notably, the purchase of pool covers will generate a return on investment of 16.4%.

This decision underscores the council's commitment to achieving its ambitious net-zero targets by 2030.

Council Appointments

The meeting also included the appointment of Councillor Jeffries and Councillor Collins to the Joint Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy Joint Committee. These appointments are crucial for overseeing the allocation of funds for infrastructure projects that support the development and growth of the community.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous

The Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous meeting on Tuesday 18 June 2024 focused on an application for street trading consent. The application, which sought permission to sell hot food and drinks from a kebab van in the town centre, was ultimately refused. The committee raised concerns about the potential for increased antisocial behaviour, obstruction of emergency vehicle access, and the impact on the aesthetic and ambiance of the promenade area. The applicant was advised to consider alternative locations and submit a revised application if desired.

This week, the council's focus was on significant governance changes, energy efficiency investments, and maintaining the character and safety of the town centre. The approval of the new housing governance framework and energy-saving investments highlights the council's commitment to sustainable development and resident engagement. The refusal of the street trading application demonstrates the council's careful consideration of public safety and community impact.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 08 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Cabinet on Tuesday 11 June 2024.
2. Planning Committee on Thursday 13 June 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 13 June 2024. This meeting covered several significant planning applications, including the confirmation of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), the refusal of a planning application for a plot subdivision, and the approval of a unique residential development.

Tree Preservation Order Opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road

The committee confirmed a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for a London plane tree located opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road. The TPO was initially made in response to a planning application to develop the car park at North Place, which would have necessitated the removal of the tree. The tree officer, Sam, highlighted the tree's high value, good condition, and long life expectancy. He stated:

The tree has excellent public visibility and is very significant in the centre of town.

The committee unanimously agreed to confirm the TPO, ensuring the tree's protection.

Little Duncroft, Evesham Road

The committee refused a planning application for the subdivision of the plot at Little Duncroft, Evesham Road. The proposal involved converting an outbuilding into a separate dwelling and erecting a 1.8-metre high boundary fence. The planning officer argued that the subdivision would be out of character with the existing pattern of development and that the proposed fencing would have a harsh visual impact on the street scene. Councillor Tooke emphasized the importance of adhering to the original planning conditions, stating:

The existing approval was correct and should remain in its entirety.

The committee voted to refuse the application, with eight votes in favour of refusal, two against, and one abstention.

Leckhampton Reservoir

The committee approved a unique residential development at Leckhampton Reservoir. The proposal involved converting the existing reservoir into a single dwelling with associated works, including access and landscaping. The planning officer highlighted that the development would be compliant with policies regarding the Greenbelt and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The agent for the applicant emphasized the sustainable nature of the project, noting:

The scheme incorporates renewable technology and makes good use of a brownfield site.

Despite concerns raised by Councillor Horwood and the parish council regarding road safety and the impact on the AONB, the committee unanimously approved the application, recognizing its innovative design and minimal environmental impact.

Appeal Updates

The committee noted the appeal updates and appeals lodged between May and June 2024. No further discussion was required on these items.

This week, the council's focus was on significant planning decisions that will shape the future landscape of Cheltenham. The confirmation of the TPO ensures the protection of valuable green assets, while the refusal of the Little Duncroft application maintains the character of the existing neighbourhood. The approval of the Leckhampton Reservoir development highlights the council's commitment to innovative and sustainable housing solutions.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 25 May 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Cabinet on Tuesday 28 May 2024.
2. Planning Committee on Thursday 30 May 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 28 May 2024. This meeting covered a range of topics, from the richness of Cheltenham's cultural and sporting organizations to significant development projects and climate change initiatives.

Councillor Hallward, newly assigned to the portfolio of economy, wellbeing, and culture, expressed his amazement at the diversity of Cheltenham's cultural, sporting, and artistic organizations. He emphasized the town's good fortune in having such a vibrant community and pledged to do his best in his new role.

Councillor Clegg highlighted Cheltenham's influence beyond its borders, noting that other cities and towns across Europe look to Cheltenham as a model for rebuilding economies and reinvigorating communities. He praised the council's ability to achieve this without facing bankruptcy, unlike many other councils in the country. He attributed this success to the commitment and operational ability of the council members and their care for the people of Cheltenham.

Councillor Jeffries discussed his new portfolio focused on social value, particularly in relation to the Golden Valley development. He described this project as the most significant development in the Southwest, emphasizing its long-term impact on the town and the importance of supporting various areas across Cheltenham.

Councillor Toby, now responsible for the climate change portfolio, underscored Cheltenham's ambitious targets to achieve net zero by 2030, far ahead of the national government's targets. He stressed that climate change touches every aspect of the council's work and that there is strong support from the community and other parties for these initiatives.

Councillor Atherston provided updates on two key projects: the pre-loved school uniform project and a £41,000 fund for organizations specializing in detached youth work. The school uniform project has been highly successful, thanks to donations from families across Cheltenham. The fund aims to support young people at risk of antisocial behavior, with applications open until 18 June.

Councillor Collins reported that the Arle Court Transport Hub is on target to open in July and be fully operational by August. This project is expected to significantly reduce unnecessary car journeys into the town center, contributing to Cheltenham's climate ambitions. However, he noted challenges with the progress on Junction 10 and called for further efforts to address these issues.

The Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 30 May 2024 did not have a transcript available at the time of writing.

This week, the council's focus was on leveraging Cheltenham's cultural assets, advancing major development projects, and pushing forward with ambitious climate change targets. The successful school uniform project and the new fund for youth work highlight the council's ongoing commitment to supporting the community. The progress on the Arle Court Transport Hub is a positive step towards reducing car journeys and achieving climate goals, though challenges remain with other infrastructure projects like Junction 10.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 18 May 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Licensing Sub Committee-Alcohol and Gambling on Wednesday 22 May 2024.
2. Inauguration of the Mayor on Monday 20 May 2024.
3. Appointments and Remuneration Committee on Wednesday 22 May 2024.
4. Inauguration of the Mayor on Monday 20 May 2024.
5. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
6. Council on Monday 20 May 2024.
7. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
8. Council on Monday 20 May 2024.
9. Council on Monday 20 May 2024.
10. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
11. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
12. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
13. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
14. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
15. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.
16. Unknown committee on Monday 20 May 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Council meeting on Monday 20 May 2024. This meeting focused on the transition of leadership roles and the appointment of new council members. Key topics included the retirement of the outgoing mayor, the election of the new mayor and deputy mayor, and the appointment of various council committees and roles.

The outgoing mayor took a moment to thank council members and staff, particularly highlighting Bob Bishop from the mayor's office, who is retiring. The mayor expressed gratitude for Bob's contributions, especially in organizing civic events like Remembrance Day.

Councillor Baker was elected as the new Mayor of Cheltenham for the 2024-2025 year. Councillor Harvey proposed the motion, and Councillor Smith seconded it. The vote was carried unanimously. Councillor Dr. David Willingham was elected as the Deputy Mayor, with Councillor Atherston proposing and Councillor Boys seconding the motion, which was also carried unanimously.

The meeting continued with the approval of the minutes from the last meeting held on March 18, 2024. The new mayor, Councillor Baker, expressed his excitement and outlined his plans for the year, including support for four charities: Cheltenham Welcomes Refugees, Aim Up, Friends of Sandford Park, and CCP.

Councillor Jeffress proposed Councillor Rowena Hay as the Leader of the Council, with Councillor Joy seconding. The motion was carried unanimously. Councillor Hay then announced the new Cabinet members and their respective roles, including Councillor Lewis for Finance and Assets, Councillor Jefferys for Major Developments and Housing Delivery, and others.

The council also approved the establishment and appointment of various committees, including Appeals, Audit Compliance, Licensing, and Planning. Additionally, joint committees and advisory panels were appointed, such as the Gloucestershire Police Crime Panel and the Treasury Management Panel.

No petitions were received, and there were no urgent items requiring a decision. The meeting concluded with a short break before resuming for a second session.

Another significant meeting was the Council meeting on Monday 20 May 2024, which focused on the appointment of honorary titles to former councillors and distinguished citizens. Apologies were noted from Councillors Collings, Steinhardt, Barnes, and Oliver.

The first significant topic was the appointment of honorary Aldermen. The Chief Executive, Gareth, introduced the report recommending that former Councillors Babbage, Britta, Fisher, Flynn, and Seachem be conferred the title of honorary Alderman. This title is given to individuals who have rendered eminent services to the authority, typically requiring at least 16 years of service or having served as a past mayor or chair of the Council. Councillor Arwina proposed the motion, and Councillor Tabby Joy seconded it. The motion was passed after a vote.

The second topic was the appointment of honorary Freeman of the borough. The Chief Executive introduced the report recommending Leslie Bonney, Chun Kong, and Michael Ratcliffe, MBE, for this title, recognizing their eminent and distinguished service to the borough of Cheltenham. Councillor Arwina proposed the motion, and Councillor Tabby Joy seconded it. The motion was passed after a vote.

The meeting concluded with no further business.

This week, the council's focus was on leadership transitions and the recognition of long-serving and distinguished individuals. The appointment of new council members and the establishment of various committees will shape the council's operations for the coming year. The recognition of honorary Aldermen and Freeman highlights the council's appreciation for dedicated service to the community.