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Harlow Council Approves Governance Statement & Traffic Calming Measures

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 22 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

Audit & Standards Committee - Wednesday 26 June 2024

The Audit & Standards Committee convened to discuss several key reports and plans, making important decisions regarding the council's governance and financial oversight.

Annual Governance Statement

The committee reviewed and approved the Annual Governance Statement for 2023-24. This document outlines Harlow Council's governance framework and the effectiveness of its internal controls. Key areas for improvement were highlighted, with an action plan to address these issues. The need for enhanced transparency and accountability in council operations was a significant point of discussion. Councillors emphasised the importance of ensuring that governance structures are robust and fit for purpose.

Head of Internal Audit Annual Report

The Head of Internal Audit Annual Report for 2023-24 summarised the internal audit activities and findings over the past year. While the internal control environment is generally effective, areas requiring improvement, such as risk management and compliance with statutory requirements, were identified. The committee agreed on the need for a more proactive approach to internal audits to preemptively identify and mitigate risks.

External Audit Plan 2023-24

The committee endorsed the External Audit Plan for 2023-24, prepared by KPMG. The plan focuses on key risk areas like financial sustainability and governance. The importance of external audits in providing an independent assessment of the council's financial health was underscored. One councillor remarked, External audits are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that we are financially accountable.

Risk Management

The committee reviewed the Risk Management report, which included the Strategic Risk Register and the Current Risk Rating Matrix. The need for continuous monitoring and updating of the risk register to reflect emerging risks was discussed. It was agreed that risk management should be an integral part of the council's strategic planning process.

Audit and Standards Work Plan 2024-25

The Audit and Standards Work Plan for 2024-25 was also discussed. The plan sets out the committee's priorities and activities for the upcoming year. Emphasis was placed on aligning the work plan with the council's strategic objectives and addressing key risk areas. One member noted, Our work plan should be dynamic and responsive to the changing needs of the council and the community.

Harlow Local Highways Panel - Tuesday 25 June 2024

The Harlow Local Highways Panel meeting focused on enhancing road safety and improving infrastructure across Harlow.

Traffic Calming Measures

The panel approved new traffic calming measures for Old Road, addressing resident concerns about speeding vehicles. Measures include speed humps and additional signage. Speeding on Old Road has been a persistent issue, and these measures will help to mitigate the risks, noted one councillor.

Pedestrian Safety Improvements

A series of pedestrian safety improvements at Market Street were approved. These include new zebra crossings and improved street lighting. The decision was influenced by recent incidents involving pedestrians. Enhancing pedestrian safety in Market Street is crucial, especially given its high footfall and proximity to local businesses, highlighted a councillor.

Budget Allocations

The panel reviewed and allocated budgets for upcoming projects such as road resurfacing and new cycle lanes. The Public reports pack 25th-Jun-2024 19.00 Harlow Local Highways Panel details these discussions. Projects that align with the council's commitment to sustainable transport and reducing traffic congestion were prioritised. Investing in cycle lanes not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also helps to alleviate traffic issues, remarked one councillor.

Future Projects

The potential for a new park-and-ride scheme to ease congestion in the town centre was discussed. This proposal is still in the early stages, with further studies required. The panel agreed to revisit this topic in future meetings once more data is available.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the HLHP - 25 June 2024 document.

New Faces, Celebrations, and Community Spirit: Highlights from Harlow Council's Latest Meeting

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

Council Meeting - Thursday 23 May 2024

The council meeting on Thursday was significant for several reasons. It marked the introduction of new council members, the recognition of long-serving members, and the acknowledgment of local organizations and individuals for their contributions to the community.

Welcoming New Members

New council members were introduced, including Jake Shepherd, Michael, Luke Howard, Alan O'Pray, Dan Bush, Stuart Gee, Stefan Mullard-Holl, Markingville, Emma Caffari, and Danielle Brown. The Chair expressed hopes for their fruitful and enjoyable tenure.

Recognizing Long-Serving Members

The Chair acknowledged the service of long-serving members, including Councillor Simon Carter and another unnamed councillor, thanking them for their dedication.

Review of the Year

The Chair reviewed the past year, highlighting events and initiatives aimed at celebrating the community. These included:

Gems of Harlow: Events celebrating local organizations like sporting clubs, charities, and arts venues such as the Playhouse, Pets Corner, and Victoria Hall.
Celebrate Harlow: An event at the Playhouse featuring diverse acts and raising money for charities.
Golf Day and Quiz: Fundraising events supported by local organizations and council staff.
Civic Service: Held at St Paul's Church, focusing on community support.
Palmer Mill Event: Showcasing local heritage and arts, with positive feedback from attendees.

Acknowledgments and Awards

The Chair thanked various individuals and teams for their support, including:

Rory and the Playhouse Team: For their assistance in hosting events.
Martin Harris: For his support as the Chair's chaplain.
Chair's Family: For their support throughout the year.

Civic Awards

The meeting included the presentation of civic awards, recognizing individuals nominated by their peers. Notable awards included:

Citizen of the Year: Awarded to June Fleming for her extensive work with special needs education and the charity PACT.

Final Remarks

The Chair emphasized the importance of respectful and polite debate among councillors, especially in a politically charged year. The meeting concluded with a vote on an unspecified motion, which passed with 23 votes in favor, none against, and nine abstentions.

This meeting highlighted the council's ongoing commitment to community engagement and recognition of local contributions. The introduction of new members and the celebration of long-serving ones set a tone of continuity and renewal. The review of the year's events underscored the council's efforts to foster community spirit and support local initiatives. The emphasis on respectful debate suggests a focus on maintaining a constructive and collaborative atmosphere in council proceedings.