This week, the Teignbridge Council held an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The meeting covered a range of topics, including the scrutiny of executive decisions, updates on waste and recycling, and discussions on environmental health and licensing.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Waste and Recycling Update

One of the most significant discussions was the update on waste and recycling provided by Councillor Williams. The key points included:

• Recycling Rate Increase: The recycling rate has increased by 0.1% to 53%, placing Teignbridge in the top 12% of all districts nationwide. This increase is primarily due to higher garden waste collections and subscriptions.
• Decarbonisation of Waste Fleet: The council's vehicle fleet, which accounts for one-third of its carbon footprint, is undergoing changes. Twenty battery electric vehicles are scheduled to arrive in October 2024, along with twelve new diesel refuse collection vehicles with electric backlifts.
• National Waste and Resources Strategy: The council is preparing for changes in national recycling policies, including deposit return schemes and the collection of plastic film and tetra packs. These changes will require significant investment in waste transfer stations and sorting equipment.

Councillor Williams emphasized the importance of these initiatives for improving recycling performance and reducing the council's carbon footprint.

Environmental Health and Licensing

Councillor Williams also provided an update on environmental health and licensing, highlighting the extensive remit of this department, which includes food safety, health and safety, licensing for various activities, and environmental protection. Key points included:

• Funeral Directors Inspections: Following issues in Hull, the council has conducted inspections of all funeral directors in the district to ensure compliance with standards.
• Fly Tipping: The council has dealt with 312 fly-tipping incidents this year, issuing fixed penalty notices and prosecuting serious offenders.
• Statutory Returns: The department has completed all required statutory returns, ensuring compliance with government regulations.

Scrutiny of Executive Decisions

The committee reviewed the executive decisions made on June 4, 2024, focusing on the strategic asset plan and the Future High Streets Fund. Representatives from South West Water and the Environment Agency are expected to attend future meetings to discuss these issues further.

Implications and Themes

The updates on waste and recycling and environmental health and licensing reflect ongoing themes of sustainability and public health. The council's efforts to improve recycling rates and decarbonize its vehicle fleet demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability. The focus on inspections and enforcement in environmental health highlights the council's dedication to maintaining high standards for public safety and well-being.

The scrutiny of executive decisions and the involvement of external agencies in future discussions indicate a collaborative approach to addressing complex issues. This approach aligns with the council's broader strategy of engaging with stakeholders and experts to inform decision-making.

Overall, the council's actions this week illustrate a strategic focus on sustainability, public health, and collaborative governance. These themes will likely continue to shape future council decisions and initiatives.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held two meetings: a Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, and a Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee meeting on Friday, June 14, 2024.

Planning Committee Meeting

The Planning Committee meeting on June 11th focused on several key applications, with the most impactful discussions involving the Higher Mead Farm and the Red Lion in Tedburn St. Mary.

Higher Mead Farm Application

The committee approved the application for the change of use of land at Higher Mead Farm in Ashburton to allow the siting of eight static caravans for holiday use, including associated staff accommodation. The planning officer noted that the application was retrospective, as the caravans were already on site. The committee concluded that the visual impact was acceptable and approved the application unanimously.

Red Lion in Tedburn St. Mary

The application for the change of use and conversion of the Red Lion in Tedburn St. Mary from a public house and one flat into four houses was a contentious issue. The committee heard from both supporters and objectors, including a local resident who emphasized the pub's historical and social significance. The planning officer noted that the pub had been registered as an asset of community value (ACV) and that the King's Arms, another pub in the village, provided sufficient choice for residents. The committee decided to conduct a site visit to better understand the impact on the community and the village's infrastructure.

Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee Meeting

The Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee meeting on June 14th focused on various applications related to hackney carriage and private hire vehicle licences. Key decisions included the granting of several vehicle licence extensions and the refusal of a small plate request.

Hackney Carriage Vehicle Licence Extensions

The Sub-Committee reviewed multiple applications for hackney carriage vehicle licence extensions. Notable decisions included:

• KV09 WPK: Decision deferred pending vehicle test inspection.
• DN62 WNU: Licence extension granted with a condition of six-monthly taxi inspection tests.
• DX13 OVS: Licence extension refused due to a failed vehicle test and lack of communication.
• MK12 YWA: Licence extension granted with a condition of six-monthly taxi inspection tests.
• SA14 CAB: Licence extension granted with a condition of six-monthly taxi inspection tests.

Request for a Small Plate for Private Hire Vehicle

The Sub-Committee refused a request for a small plate for a private hire vehicle registration YS19 WDZ. The applicant sought a small plate to provide a discreet service for private hire customers and local business clients. The Sub-Committee decided that the standard plate should remain for better visibility and public interest.

Implications and Themes

The decisions made during the Planning Committee meeting reflect ongoing themes of balancing development with community and historical considerations. The approval of the Higher Mead Farm application underscores the council's support for local tourism and economic development, while the decision to conduct a site visit for the Red Lion application highlights the importance of community engagement and historical preservation.

The Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee's decisions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards for public safety and service quality in the local transport sector. The refusal of the small plate request indicates a priority on transparency and visibility for private hire services.

Overall, the council's actions this week illustrate a strategic approach to governance, with a focus on community development, historical preservation, and public safety. These themes will likely continue to shape future council decisions and initiatives.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held an Executive meeting on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Here are the key points and their implications:

Welcoming New Councillors

The meeting began with the introduction of Councillors Williams and Buscombe to the Executive. Their addition is expected to bring fresh perspectives and energy to the council's activities.

Strategic Asset Plan

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the council's strategic asset plan. Councillor Palesor presented the plan, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing the council's assets effectively to generate income and support community services. The plan aims to provide a comprehensive review of the council's land and buildings, with a focus on individual asset management.

Key points from the discussion include:

• The plan will be reviewed against the new council strategy later in the year.
• It aims to separate the treatment of commercial and community properties, ensuring fair community rents and supporting the voluntary sector.
• The plan is expected to generate approximately £2.5 million in rental income, which is crucial for funding council services.

Councillor Palesor highlighted the extensive work involved in developing the plan and thanked Tom Phillips and his team for their efforts. The plan was unanimously approved by the Executive.

Future High Streets Fund

Councillor Palethorpe provided an update on the Future High Streets Fund, focusing on the progress of the Market Square and Market Walk projects. The planning application for these projects is expected to be considered by the full planning committee by the end of June or early July. The update also mentioned the development of a project adjustment request for the remaining £2 million of the fund.

Councillor Palethorpe noted positive meetings with local businesses, who are concerned about the impact of the roadworks but remain optimistic about the future benefits. The update was unanimously accepted by the Executive.

Notice of Motions on South West Water

The Executive discussed two similar notice of motions regarding South West Water's discharges into local watercourses and coastal environments. Councillor McGregor emphasized the need to address the lack of investment in infrastructure and the prioritization of shareholder dividends over environmental protection. Councillor Cox supported the motion, highlighting the community's frustration with South West Water's actions.

The Executive agreed to write to the secretaries of state and local MPs to express their concerns and lack of confidence in South West Water. The motion was unanimously approved.

Implications and Themes

The approval of the strategic asset plan marks a significant step towards better asset management and financial sustainability for the council. By focusing on generating income and supporting community organizations, the council aims to create a sustainable financial model that can better serve the district's needs.

The update on the Future High Streets Fund highlights the council's commitment to local economic development and revitalizing key areas. The positive engagement with local businesses indicates a collaborative approach to addressing community concerns.

The discussion on South West Water reflects ongoing environmental and infrastructure challenges. The council's decision to formally express their concerns to higher authorities underscores the importance of addressing these issues for the well-being of the community.

Overall, the council's actions this week demonstrate a strategic and collaborative approach to governance, with a strong emphasis on financial sustainability, community development, and environmental protection. These themes will likely continue to shape future council decisions and initiatives.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. The primary focus was on the election of the Chair and Vice Chair for the committee, along with discussions on digital connectivity and the council's strategic asset plan.

Election of the Chair and Vice Chair

Councillor Suzanne Sanders was elected as the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. She was nominated by Councillor Parker and seconded by Councillor Hayes. Sanders' expertise in coordinating and presenting items for the committee over the past year was highlighted as a key reason for her nomination. Councillor Phil Bullivant was also nominated but received fewer votes.

Councillor John Parrett was elected as the Vice Chair. He was nominated by Councillor Colin Parker and seconded by Councillor Henderson. Parrett's background in finance and his previous role as Vice Chair of ONS1 were noted as significant qualifications. Councillor Alex Hall was also nominated but did not secure enough votes.

Digital Connectivity for Households

The committee discussed a proposal on digital connectivity for households, focusing on global broadband coverage and the involvement of Building Digital UK (BDUK). The proposal aims to address the late changes presented by BDUK and seeks to improve broadband access across the district. The committee approved the proposal, emphasizing the importance of digital infrastructure for community development.

Strategic Asset Plan

Councillor David Pailthorpe provided an update on the council's strategic asset plan, which includes a comprehensive review of the council's land and buildings. The plan aims to shift the focus from merely making savings to generating income to support community services. Pailthorpe highlighted the importance of a fair concession and subsidy policy to support vulnerable groups and organizations.

Key points from the discussion include:

• The council owns 0.8% of the district's land, equivalent to 749 rugby pitches.
• The strategic asset policy will be reviewed against the new council strategy later in the year.
• The council's approach will involve assessing each asset's community value and potential for generating income.

Implications and Themes

The election of Councillor Sanders and Councillor Parrett to leadership positions within the Overview and Scrutiny Committee reflects a focus on experienced and financially knowledgeable leadership. This is likely to influence the committee's approach to scrutinizing council policies and initiatives.

The discussion on digital connectivity underscores the council's commitment to improving infrastructure, which is essential for economic development and community well-being. The involvement of BDUK indicates a collaborative approach to addressing digital disparities.

The strategic asset plan represents a significant shift in the council's approach to asset management. By focusing on generating income and supporting community organizations, the council aims to create a sustainable financial model that can better serve the district's needs. This approach aligns with broader themes of balancing financial prudence with community support, a recurring topic in previous council meetings.

Overall, the council's actions this week highlight a strategic and collaborative approach to governance, with a strong emphasis on financial sustainability and community development. These themes will likely continue to shape future council decisions and initiatives.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held a Full Council meeting on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. The primary focus was the election of the Chair and Deputy Chair for the upcoming term.

Election of the Chair

Councillor Rosie Dawson was elected as the new Chair. She was proposed by Councillor Riggly and seconded by Councillor Riggy Keeling. Dawson's effectiveness and experience, including her recent term as Dawlish Mayor, were highlighted as key reasons for her nomination. Councillor Clarence was also proposed for a second term but declined the nomination, expressing gratitude for the consideration and his past service. Councillor Jane Taylor was then proposed by Councillor DAWS and seconded by Councillor MACKRICK. Taylor was noted for her governance experience and previous role as Chair of King's Kurzwell Parish Council. The vote resulted in 24 votes for Dawson, 9 for Taylor, and 9 abstentions.

Election of the Deputy Chair

Councillor Suzanne Sanders was elected as the new Deputy Chair. She was proposed by Councillor VICLE and seconded by Councillor Keeling. Sanders was recognized for her contributions as a new Councillor. Councillor John Radford was also proposed by Councillor Taylor and seconded by another Councillor. Radford was highlighted for his fairness, experience as Chair of King's Castle Parish Council, and his independent thought. The vote resulted in 24 votes for Sanders and 17 for Radford.

Both Councillor Rosie Dawson and Councillor Suzanne Sanders expressed their commitment to fairness and respect for all members and staff, emphasizing the importance of working together for the benefit of Teignbridge. Dawson stated, I am committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and that we work collaboratively for the betterment of our community (Full Council Meeting Transcript, May 21, 2024).

Implications and Themes

The election of new leadership in the council is a significant event, as it sets the tone for the upcoming term. Councillor Dawson's background as Dawlish Mayor suggests a focus on effective governance and community engagement. Her election may bring a renewed emphasis on these areas, which could influence future council decisions and initiatives.

Councillor Sanders' election as Deputy Chair highlights the council's recognition of new voices and contributions. Her role will likely involve supporting the Chair in fostering a collaborative environment within the council.

This week's Full Council meeting reflects ongoing themes we've discussed before: the importance of leadership in shaping council priorities and the emphasis on collaborative governance. The new leadership team’s commitment to fairness and respect is crucial for maintaining a productive and inclusive council environment.

Overall, the council's actions this week demonstrate a focus on effective leadership and collaboration, which will be essential for addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Teignbridge in the coming term.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held two meetings: a Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, and a Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee meeting on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

Planning Committee Meeting

The Planning Committee meeting on May 14th covered several significant topics, with the most impactful discussions involving the Broadmeadow Sports Centre refurbishment and the Alexandra Cinema redevelopment.

Broadmeadow Sports Centre Refurbishment

The committee approved the internal refurbishment and decarbonisation proposals for the Broadmeadow Sports Centre in Teignmouth. This includes replacement cladding, external insulation, and a relocated main entrance. However, the approval is contingent on a bat survey being completed and no bats being found on site. Planning Officer Darren Roberts highlighted the necessity of a flood risk assessment due to part of the site being within a flood zone.

Alexandra Cinema Redevelopment

The redevelopment of the Alexandra Cinema in Newton Abbot involved two applications: one for planning permission and one for listed building consent. The proposal includes restoring the single theatre auditorium and constructing a glass-sided atrium extension. Planning Officer Jennifer Jewell noted that while the atrium extension would cause less than substantial harm to the listed building, the public benefits justify the restoration. The committee approved both applications with a condition that the atrium extension would only be built after or concurrent with the theatre restoration.

Other Discussions

• Declarations of Interest: Councillors Nutty, Hook, and Pailthorpe declared their interests.
• Public Participation Process: The committee discussed the public participation process and introduced key officers present at the meeting.
• Change of Use for Land in East Dun Lane: The committee approved a change of use for land in East Dun Lane to a secure dog walking field for private hire, despite objections from local residents and the parish council. The committee noted the need for such facilities and the minimal impact on traffic and the environment.

Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee Meeting

The Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee meeting on May 15th did not have a video broadcast available, so details of the discussions are not accessible.

Implications and Themes

The decisions made during the Planning Committee meeting reflect ongoing themes we've discussed before: balancing development with environmental considerations and the need for public amenities. The approval of the Broadmeadow Sports Centre refurbishment, contingent on environmental assessments, underscores the council's commitment to sustainable development. Similarly, the Alexandra Cinema redevelopment highlights the council's focus on preserving historical sites while enhancing public facilities.

The approval of the secure dog walking field, despite local objections, indicates a prioritization of community needs and amenities, even when faced with opposition. This decision may set a precedent for future developments where community benefits are weighed against local concerns.

Overall, the council's actions this week demonstrate a careful balancing act between development, environmental sustainability, and community needs. These themes will likely continue to shape future council decisions.

This week, the Teignbridge Council held an Executive meeting on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, focusing on a range of governance and community issues. Here are the key points and their implications:

1. Minutes of the Last Meeting: The unanimous approval of the previous meeting's minutes indicates a smooth functioning of the council, with no disputes on record.

2. Executive Forward Plan: The lack of changes to the forward plan suggests a steady continuation of the council's current projects and priorities. This stability is crucial for ongoing initiatives but raises questions about the council's responsiveness to new challenges.

3. Public Questions: The council addressed public concerns about the Broad Meadow leisure centre. Despite criticisms, the council upheld its current policies, emphasizing safety and inclusivity. This decision highlights the council's commitment to existing strategies, though it may face ongoing public scrutiny.

4. Car Parking Operational Plan: The decision to review rather than adopt the car parking plan reflects a cautious approach, prioritizing further analysis and community input. This could delay improvements but ensures that future policies are well-considered and community-backed.

5. Street Naming and Numbering Policy: The adoption of a new policy here aims to streamline administrative processes and respond better to community requests. This change will likely enhance local identity and efficiency but will require careful implementation to avoid confusion during the transition.

6. Future High Streets Fund: The update on this project underscores its importance for local economic development. The extension of deadlines and plans for unspent funds suggest a flexible approach to ensure the project's success, which is vital for revitalizing the area and supporting local businesses.

The meeting's outcomes reflect a council that values procedural integrity and is cautious in implementing changes that directly affect the community. As this is a recurring theme, the council's approach to balancing stability with innovation will be crucial in upcoming decisions.