This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held four meetings.

The first was the Licensing Sub-Committee on Monday, 10 June 2024. Unfortunately, the transcript for this meeting was not available, so details on the discussions and decisions made are not provided.

The second meeting was the Transport and Air Quality Committee, also on Monday, 10 June 2024. This meeting focused on the progress of cargo bike initiatives, the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service, and the committee's forward plan.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Cargo Bikes Initiative: The committee reviewed the annual update on cargo bike activity in the borough. The report highlighted the usage and carbon emission reductions from the Community Cargo Bike scheme. Notably, cargo bike parking locations near schools are set to be installed in May, and a cargo bike festival is planned for later in the year. Tim Lennon from the Richmond Cycling Campaign suggested several improvements, including removing the requirement for residents visiting the Townmead Road Reuse and Recycling Centre with a cargo bike to pre-book a time slot, providing route ideas, and engaging with local businesses and inclusive cycling organisations like Wheels for Wellbeing.

The committee resolved to:

1. Note the progress in providing and encouraging greater use of cargo bikes.
2. Agree in principle to setting aside space in a council car park for freight consolidation.
3. Delegate the response to the government’s consultation on amending legislation affecting electrically assisted pedal bikes to the Interim Director of Place, in consultation with the Chair of the Committee.

Transport Strategy Service: The committee endorsed the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service and recommended to the Finance, Policy and Resources Committee the approval of a revenue budget addition of £94,500 in 2024/25 and £126,000 in 2025/26. This decision aims to manage new work streams such as school streets, electric vehicles, and bike hangar programmes.

Forward Plan: The Director of Environment and Community Services presented the Forward Plan, which included an evaluation of the gully trials and a review of bus services. The committee noted the Forward Plan.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Minutes 23042024 Transport and Air Quality Committee.

The third meeting was the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee on Wednesday, 12 June 2024. This meeting covered the procurement of a green space management contract, the Richmond Road (East Twickenham) Conservation Area Appraisal, and the tender for a litter enforcement contract.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Green Space Management Contract: The committee approved the tendering of a new green space management contract for Richmond's 128 parks and open spaces. The contract, conducted jointly with Wandsworth, aims to protect these spaces while retaining the sovereign identities of both councils. Although a fully electric fleet is not feasible, tenderers will be asked to consider reducing carbon emissions.

Richmond Road (East Twickenham) Conservation Area Appraisal: The committee approved the draft appraisal for public consultation and delegated authority to make non-material changes and approve the final version if no substantive issues arise during the consultation.

Litter Enforcement Contract: The committee approved the tendering of a new concession contract for littering and fly-tipping enforcement services for up to three years, with an option to extend for two more years. This contract is part of a joint effort with Wandsworth and aims to be cost-neutral while maintaining staffing levels.

Forward Plan: The committee noted ongoing work with the Thames Landscape Strategy and the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan to build riverside strategies. An update will be provided in September 2024.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes 16042024 Environment Sustainability Culture and Sports Committee.

The fourth meeting was the Education and Children's Services Committee on Thursday, 13 June 2024. This meeting focused on educational outcomes, the Home to School Travel Policy, and the Youth Service Strategy.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Educational Outcomes: The committee noted the educational outcomes for the academic year 2022-2023. Highlights included all Richmond schools being rated good or above by Ofsted, above-average attainment results, and significant decreases in suspension rates for Children Looked After (CLA).

Home to School Travel Policy: The committee approved the amendment to the Home to School Travel Policy, enabling eligible children in shared custody arrangements to receive travel assistance from both home addresses.

Youth Service Strategy 2024 to 2028: The committee approved the Youth Service Strategy for 2024 to 2028, which aims to support young people in participating in developmental activities that combine enjoyment, challenge, learning, and achievement.

Forward Plan: The committee noted the current list of items on the Forward Plan for Committee business and added the following items for the Autumn:

• Digital Transformation Report
• Annual Report of the Kingston and Richmond Safeguarding Children's Partnership (KRSCP) 2023-24

These meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to improve transport and air quality, manage green spaces, enforce litter regulations, and enhance educational and youth services. The decisions made this week will have lasting impacts on the community, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability, educational outcomes, and the inclusivity of council decision-making.

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held two meetings.

The first was the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee on Tuesday, 28 May 2024. The meeting focused on the reconfiguration of specialist cancer treatment services for children in South London and much of South East England. Key points of discussion included the risks associated with moving clinicians from St. George's to Evelina, the transport issues for patients, and the potential impact on local health services.

Councillor Bennett raised concerns about the risk assessment, stating:

There didn't seem to be any risk assessment of, I mean, there was sort of talk about mitigation and various things, but I didn't really think there was a good, what is the risk of this whole thing? (Councillor Bennett)

The committee also discussed the transport issues, with suggestions such as using Ubers or specialist drivers to mitigate the stress of travel for patients and their families. The potential impact on St. George's ability to retain staff and deliver specialist paediatric oncology services was another significant concern.

Councillor Bennett further emphasized the importance of a thorough risk assessment:

I do think the one about the clinicians moving from the Georgia setup to the Evelina setup is a big risk. And they really have to be very clear that that risk, that they assess that risk, that they talk to the staff, that they're convinced. (Councillor Bennett)

The committee resolved to request the Secretary of State to call in the decision to NHS England, highlighting the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the risks and the impact on local health services.

The second meeting was the Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday, 30 May 2024. Unfortunately, the transcript for this meeting was not available, so details on the discussions and decisions made are not provided.

This week's meetings highlight the council's focus on healthcare and the importance of thorough risk assessments and transport solutions in the reconfiguration of specialist services. The discussions underscore the need for careful consideration of the impact on local health services and the well-being of patients and their families.

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held two significant meetings, both on Tuesday, 14 May 2024.

The first Council meeting was held to honour two former councillors, Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel, by awarding them the title of honorary alderman posthumously. The meeting began with a prayer for Jeffrey and Martin, acknowledging their service and dedication to the community. Councillor Roberts moved the motion to honour Martin Ellingorn, highlighting his 40 years of service, particularly in the environment committee, and his extensive knowledge of planning, law, and custom. Councillor Needham Watts seconded the motion, sharing personal anecdotes about Martin's mentorship and friendship.

Councillor Roberts then moved the motion to honour Geoffrey Samuel, noting his long tenure since the 1950s and his various roles, including Deputy Leader and lead member for Finance. He praised Geoffrey's dedication to the borough and his ability to command budget meetings. Councillor Fries seconded the motion, emphasizing Geoffrey's adherence to process and his impact on council operations. Both motions were agreed upon, and the Chief Executive signed the documents to admit Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel as honorary aldermen. The meeting concluded with the presentation of mementos to their families and a final round of applause in their memory.

The second Council meeting focused on the election of the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, along with a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor and other formalities.

1. Election of the Mayor: Councillor Richard Pine was elected as the new Mayor. Councillor Roberts proposed the motion, and Councillor Fries seconded it. Richard Pine's wife, Helen Pine, was named his consort. Councillor Kouldev Sarah was appointed as the Deputy Mayor, with Kashmir Unweight as the Deputy Mayor's consort. Reverend Jeffrey Hopkins Williams was named the chaplain for the year.

2. Retiring Mayor's Address: The retiring Mayor, Councillor Suzette Nicholson, gave a speech reflecting on her year in office. She thanked her Deputy Mayor, Fiona Sachs, and her consort, Richard, as well as her own consort, her husband John, who was absent due to illness. She also expressed gratitude to various council staff and drivers who supported her. She highlighted her engagements with local charities, events, and the community, including the Twin City visits, lifeboat naming ceremony, and addressing pollution in the Thames.

3. Vote of Thanks to Retiring Mayor: Councillor Roberts and Councillor Fries expressed their gratitude to Suzette Nicholson and Fiona Sachs for their service. They praised Suzette's dedication, especially in balancing her duties despite personal challenges, and her faith-driven approach to her role.

4. New Mayor's Charities: Richard Pine announced his chosen charities for the year: Homestart Richmond upon Thames, which supports families with young children, and Richmond Borough Mind, which assists people with mental health issues. He also mentioned that the Civic Service would be held in the autumn at St Mary's Church in Twickenham.

5. Formalities and Announcements: The meeting proceeded with formalities such as the signing of minutes, declarations of interest, and the election of the Leader and Deputy Leaders of the Council. Councillor Gareth Roberts was re-elected as the Leader, and Councillors Needham Watts and Millard were elected as Joint Deputy Leaders. The appointments to committees and outside bodies were agreed upon, and the Member's Allowance Scheme for 2024-25 was retained as per the previous year.

6. Acknowledgment of Service: The Council thanked Mike Gravitt for his 24 years of service and agreed on the appointments of John Evans and Kathy Potter to their respective roles, anticipating a potential general election.

The meeting concluded with a prayer led by Reverend Geoffrey Hopkins Williams, focusing on gratitude for the borough and its contributors, and prayers for the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

These meetings highlight the council's efforts to honour past contributions, ensure smooth transitions in leadership, and maintain continuity in their operations. The recognition of former councillors Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel underscores the value placed on long-term service and dedication to the community. The election of new leaders and the acknowledgment of outgoing ones reflect the council's commitment to both tradition and progress.

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held three significant committee meetings, each addressing crucial aspects of community life and infrastructure.

The Education and Children's Services Committee met on Monday to discuss several key issues, including the Education Outcomes report and the Home to School Travel Policy. The committee approved an amendment to the travel policy to allow travel assistance from both parents' addresses in shared custody situations. This decision could lead to increased operational costs and requires careful monitoring to assess its financial and social impacts. The committee also approved the Youth Service Strategy for 2024-2028, focusing on enhancing mental health support and addressing risky behaviors among youth. This strategy aims to improve overall youth well-being and reduce incidents of substance abuse and mental health issues.

On Tuesday, the Transport and Air Quality Committee convened to discuss the guinea trials and the review of bus services. The council confirmed that all necessary permissions for the guinea trials were in place, allowing them to proceed. This decision reflects a focus on practical evaluation over preliminary detailed reporting, which could impact the transparency and preparedness perceived by the council members. Additionally, a separate discussion was planned to gather insights and suggestions before finalizing any changes to the bus services, indicating an inclusive approach to decision-making.

The Finance, Policy and Resources Committee met on Thursday and discussed several important items, including community fund allocations and decarbonization improvements to the Twickenham Civic Centre. The committee decided on the allocation of community funds, focusing on projects that met pre-set criteria. Despite a passionate appeal from Teddington Theatre Club for funding for LED stage lights, the request was denied due to insufficient funds and failure to meet the criteria. The committee also approved a budget for the next phase of decarbonization and improvements at the Twickenham Civic Centre, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and improve the work environment.

These meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to address educational needs, environmental sustainability, and community involvement in decision-making processes. The decisions made this week will have lasting impacts on the community, particularly in terms of educational outcomes, environmental sustainability, and the inclusivity of council decision-making.