This week, the Leeds City Council held several important meetings, each addressing various aspects of the city's governance and development. Here are the key takeaways:

Scrutiny Board (Infrastructure, Investment & Inclusive Growth) - Wednesday 26 June 2024

Inclusive Growth Strategy

The Inclusive Growth Strategy has been a cornerstone of Leeds' economic development since its launch in September 2023. This week, the Board received a detailed presentation from Eve Roodhouse, Chief Officer for Culture and Economy, highlighting several initiatives and their progress. Key points discussed included:

• The success of the Leeds Apprenticeship Fair, which attracted 11,000 attendees.
• Challenges faced by young people with long-term health conditions in securing employment.
• Collaboration with the Leeds Anchors Network to support these individuals.
• The potential impact of a new mass transit system on the city's labour market.
• The role of the Innovation Arc in boosting productivity.

The Board resolved to continue monitoring the strategy's progress and requested a follow-up report in the autumn.

100% Digital Leeds

The 100% Digital Leeds programme aims to improve digital inclusion across the city. Amy Hearn, the Digital Inclusion Manager, presented the achievements and future plans of the initiative. Discussions included:

• The impact of digital exclusion and strategies to combat it.
• The programme's community-based approach and its extensive engagement across Leeds.
• The correlation between digital access and employment and health inequalities.

The Board endorsed the community-based approach and noted the programme's successes over the past year.

End of Year Statement & Work Schedule

The Board approved the publication of its end-of-year statement and noted the draft work programme for 2024/25.

Corporate Governance and Audit Committee - Monday 24 June 2024

Internal Control Report

The Committee reviewed the Council's Internal Control Report for 2023/24. Key findings included:

• A robust framework for risk management.
• Areas needing improvement, such as fraud risk management and data quality.

The importance of a strong internal control environment was emphasized, particularly given the Council's responsibility for significant public funds.

External Audit Plan

The External Audit Plan for 2022/23 was discussed, focusing on the Council's financial statements and value-for-money audits. The Committee noted the plan.

Work Programme & Annual Report

The Committee approved its Work Programme for 2024/25 and its Annual Report for 2023/24.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 25 June 2024

Yorkshire Indian Film Festival

The Sub-Committee granted a Temporary Event Notice for the Yorkshire Indian Film Festival, scheduled at the Hyde Park Picture House from 5 to 7 July 2024. The notice includes conditions to manage potential crime and disorder, such as employing security staff.

Farewell Amor Screening

A licence was granted for the screening of the film Farewell Amor¹ at the Hyde Park Picture House. The film, classified as 12A by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), is deemed suitable for children aged 12 and over, with parental guidance advised for younger viewers.

North and East Plans Panel - Thursday 27 June 2024

This meeting was cancelled.

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