This week, Cheshire East council held five meetings, with the most significant discussions occurring in the Cared For Children and Care Leaver Committee.

The Cared For Children and Care Leaver Committee on Tuesday was a pivotal meeting, focusing on the appointment of key roles and the ongoing support for care-experienced young people. Councillor Carol Bullman was appointed as the chair, and Councillor Saunders as the vice-chair for the municipal year. This committee is crucial as it oversees the welfare and development of children in care and care leavers in Cheshire East.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates from the shadow committee, which provides insights into the lived experiences of care-experienced young people. Sally Britton, a representative for care leavers, presented on various initiatives and activities designed to support these young people. One notable project discussed was My Voice, which encourages care-experienced children to participate in decision-making processes that affect them. This project includes life skills training, travel preparation, and wider participation in community activities.

The committee also reviewed the outcomes of a recent Ofsted inspection, which highlighted both strengths and areas needing improvement in the services provided to care leavers. The inspection findings emphasized the need for better communication and support for care leavers, particularly in accessing mental health services and suitable accommodation. The committee acknowledged these challenges and discussed steps to address them, including the development of a domestic violence training resource aimed at equipping professionals with the skills to support care-experienced young people facing domestic abuse.

Additionally, the committee discussed the upcoming Star Celebration Day, an annual event to recognize the achievements of cared-for children. This year's event will be held at Sandbach Town Hall on Sunday, 24th November. The event aims to celebrate the successes of these young people and provide a platform for them to share their stories and achievements.

Other meetings this week included the General Licensing Sub-Committee on Monday, the General Appeals Sub Committee on Tuesday, the Highways and Transport Committee on Thursday, and the Cheshire and Warrington Joint Committee on Friday. Unfortunately, no transcripts or videos were provided for these meetings, so we cannot provide detailed summaries.

This week's meetings underscored the council's commitment to supporting care-experienced young people and addressing the challenges highlighted by the recent Ofsted inspection. The discussions and decisions made in the Cared For Children and Care Leaver Committee reflect a proactive approach to improving services and ensuring that the voices of care-experienced young people are heard and acted upon.

This week, Cheshire East council held five meetings, with significant discussions in the Economy and Growth Committee and the Southern Planning Committee.

The Economy and Growth Committee on Tuesday was a key meeting, focusing on financial outcomes and future budget allocations. The committee reviewed the final outturn for the 2023-24 financial year, noting an underspend of £4.5 million against a net budget of £24.8 million. This positive outcome was attributed to temporary mitigations, additional income, and holding vacancies. However, concerns were raised about the sustainability of these measures in the long term. The committee also discussed the allocation of service budgets for 2024-25, highlighting the need for early engagement and cross-committee collaboration to address budget challenges. The importance of transparency and proactive financial management was emphasized, with a commitment to start the budget-setting process earlier in the year.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Save Danes Moss petition, which called for the council to scrap a development project on the Danes Moss peatland. Petitioners argued that the development would lead to the destruction of an irreplaceable habitat and increase carbon emissions. The committee acknowledged the concerns and noted that the matter would be considered by the Strategic Planning Board.

The Southern Planning Committee on Wednesday dealt with two notable applications. The first was for land at the rear of 203 and 205 Middlewich Street, which had been deferred previously for further drainage assessments. The committee approved the application after being satisfied with the detailed drainage strategy that included a storage tank to manage surface water. The second application was for a B8 storage and distribution use at Yew Tree Farm, Clay Lane, Haslington. This retrospective application was also approved, with the committee deciding against a condition to change the building's color, deeming it unnecessary.

Other meetings included the Licensing Act Sub-Committee on Tuesday, which did not have significant outcomes to report, and the Children and Families Committee on Monday, which focused on ongoing assessments and support allocations.

The Crewe Town Board met on Friday, but details from this meeting are not yet available.

This week's meetings highlighted the council's efforts to balance financial prudence with community and environmental concerns. The discussions on budget allocations and the Save Danes Moss petition underscore the importance of sustainable development and proactive financial management. The planning decisions reflect a careful consideration of local needs and environmental impacts, ensuring that development aligns with community welfare and conservation goals.

This week, Cheshire East council held two meetings, both of which were Licensing Act Sub-Committee meetings.

The Licensing Act Sub-Committee on Wednesday focused on the application for a new premises license for the Letty Spencer Playing Fields in Williston. The application was submitted by the Williston Parish Council, represented by Councillor Wayne Soltrey, Anna Cook, Emma Ongere, and Craig Bailey. The license enforcement officers present were Tracey Billington and Jennifer Rowney.

Premises License Application

The main agenda item was the application for a new premises license to transition from temporary event notices (TENS) to a more sustainable premises license. This license would cover events like the annual Williston Garden Party and potential new initiatives such as an open-air cinema event. The applicants emphasized that the license would provide flexibility but not necessarily increase the number of events.

Arguments For the Application

• The Williston Garden Party has been a successful and well-received community event.
• Steps have been taken to address community concerns, including noise control, parking management, and safety measures.
• Infrastructure improvements, such as widening entrance gates for emergency vehicles, have been made.
• The applicants are willing to adjust the number of events and operational hours based on community feedback.

Arguments Against the Application

• Objectors, represented by Tab Wilcox and Carol Ennsly, argued that the playing field is not an appropriate venue due to lack of facilities and parking.
• Concerns were raised about noise levels, public safety, and the potential for antisocial behavior.
• Objectors felt that there had been insufficient consultation with local residents.
• They questioned the need for a premises license if only one event per year is planned.

Questions and Clarifications

Councillors asked about the number of events, noise control measures, parking, and emergency access. The applicants clarified that their primary focus is the annual garden party, with no immediate plans for additional events. They also explained that the application includes provisions for future events to provide flexibility.

The meeting concluded with the chair thanking everyone for their participation. The decision on the application will be communicated within five days.

The Licensing Act Sub-Committee also met on Friday, but the notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

This week's focus on licensing applications highlights the council's ongoing efforts to balance community events with residents' concerns. The application for the Letty Spencer Playing Fields premises license, if approved, could provide more structured and predictable event planning for the Williston Parish Council. However, the objections raised underscore the importance of thorough community consultation and addressing local concerns about noise, safety, and infrastructure.

This week, Cheshire East council held three meetings, with the most significant being the Council meeting on Wednesday.

The Council meeting on Wednesday was primarily focused on ceremonial appointments and recognitions. Councillor Marilyn Houston was elected as Mayor of Cheshire East for the municipal year 2024-25. Councillor Arthur Moran proposed the motion, highlighting her extensive background in local government and community involvement. Councillor Sam Corcoran seconded the motion, emphasizing her ability to work with council officers and members, represent the council, and chair meetings. The motion was carried unanimously. Councillor Houston expressed her gratitude and outlined her goals for the coming year, including supporting the Crewe and Nantwich Committee of Cancer Research UK as her chosen charity.

Another key appointment was Councillor David Edwards as Deputy Mayor. Councillor Redge Crane proposed the motion, praising Councillor Edwards for his guidance and mentorship. Councillor John Ray seconded the motion, commending his suitability for the role. The motion was carried, and Councillor Edwards expressed his thanks and shared anecdotes from his long career in local government.

The meeting also included the appointment of honorary aldermen. Councillor Janet Klaus proposed the motion to appoint eight former councillors, noting their combined service of over 150 years. Councillor Arthur Moran seconded the motion, and it was carried. The newly appointed honorary aldermen received certificates and small gifts. Additionally, a special meeting of the council was held to recognize former members for their service. Councillor Sam Corcoran proposed the motion to recognize Stan Davies, Paul Findlow, Aylith Harewood, and Steve Hogben for their meritorious service. Councillor Rod Fletcher seconded the motion, and it was carried.

The meeting concluded with the council noting an urgent decision taken by the Chief Executive on behalf of the council.

There was another Council meeting on the same day, but no video broadcast is available for this meeting.

The Crewe Town Board met on Friday, but we do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is very recent, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

This week's meetings were largely ceremonial, focusing on the recognition of service and the appointment of key roles within the council. The election of Councillor Marilyn Houston as Mayor and Councillor David Edwards as Deputy Mayor sets the stage for the council's leadership in the coming year. The appointment of honorary aldermen highlights the council's appreciation for long-term service and dedication. These ceremonial roles and recognitions, while not immediately impactful in terms of policy, play a crucial part in maintaining the council's traditions and morale.

This week, Cheshire East council held four meetings, with significant discussions in the Appointments Committee and the Children and Families Committee.

The Appointments Committee on Monday focused on refining the recruitment process for key council positions. The committee decided to delegate recruitment authority for an interim executive director to the Chief Executive, with added consultation from various council leaders to ensure transparency and broad representation. This decision underscores a commitment to inclusive governance, potentially leading to more widely accepted outcomes. The committee also set a flexible recruitment timetable, reflecting the urgency of filling these critical roles. Here's a relevant quote from the discussion:

It is essential that we expedite this process while ensuring the utmost transparency and inclusivity in our recruitment, stated the committee chair.

The Children and Families Committee also met on Monday, tackling several pressing issues. The allocation of the Household Support Fund was adjusted to be more flexible, aiming to address both immediate and long-term needs effectively. This decision could lead to more sustainable support for families facing financial difficulties. The committee also approved the conversion of children's centers into family hubs, a move intended to optimize resource use and enhance service delivery, though it raised concerns about the focus on children-specific programs. The ongoing assessment of walking routes for school children highlighted the council's commitment to safety, albeit with significant resource allocation.

These meetings reflect the council's ongoing efforts to address community needs through thoughtful policy adjustments and strategic planning. The decisions made could have substantial implications for recruitment transparency, family support dynamics, and children's safety in Cheshire East.

This week, the Cheshire East council convened for two significant meetings: the Strategic Planning Board and the Licensing Act Sub-Committee.

The Strategic Planning Board met on Wednesday to deliberate on several key planning applications, each with notable implications for the local community and environment. The board approved a new Sainsbury's store and a golf driving range, both of which promise economic and recreational benefits respectively. However, they rejected a large residential development and an eco-home proposal, prioritizing environmental conservation and the preservation of rural character over development.

The rejection of the residential development was based on its potential negative impact on local wildlife, particularly bats, and the overall landscape. This decision is a continuation of the council's strict stance on environmental protection, a theme we've seen in previous planning decisions. The eco-home proposal, despite its sustainability features, was turned down due to concerns about its scale and intrusion into the countryside. This sparked a debate on the balance between innovative sustainable design and traditional rural aesthetics. Here's a notable quote from the debate:

We must consider the long-term visual impact of such structures, not just their environmental credentials, argued one board member.

On Thursday, the Licensing Act Sub-Committee focused on a licensing application from The Studio on Castle Street, which sought to extend its operational hours. The committee approved the application, noting that previous extensions had not resulted in any complaints. This decision could enhance the business's competitiveness and customer satisfaction, reflecting the council's supportive stance towards local businesses seeking to adapt to market demands.

Both meetings this week highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to balance development and business needs with community welfare and environmental preservation. These decisions will likely have lasting impacts on the community's economic landscape and its environmental conservation efforts.