In the past week, the Wirral Council held several meetings, including the Wirral Schools Forum on Tuesday, 11 June 2024, which was postponed, and the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee and Policy and Resources Committee meetings, both of which were cancelled. The Constitution and Standards Committee meeting on Monday, 10 June 2024, was also cancelled. However, the Regulatory and General Purposes Committee met on Thursday, 13 June 2024, and made several key decisions.

Honorary Freedom of the Borough for David Armstrong

One of the significant decisions made during the Regulatory and General Purposes Committee meeting was to grant the honorary freedom of the borough to David Armstrong. Armstrong's 34 years of service to the Wirral Council were highlighted, including his roles as acting Chief Executive during challenging times. Councillors praised his dedication and contributions, with one noting, David was the go-to person for many, many years in this council¹.

Tranmere Rovers Football Club Badge Trademark

The committee also approved a request by Tranmere Rovers Football Club to register their club badge as a trademark. The badge, derived from the Wirral Council's coat of arms, will help protect the club from counterfeit merchandise. This decision was made after considering the badge's unique elements and the benefits of trademark protection for the club and its supporters².

Amendments to Licensing Criteria for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles

The committee made significant amendments to the criteria for licensing Hackney carriage and private hire vehicles. These changes include:

• Emission Standards: Hackney carriage vehicles must now comply with Euro 5 emission standards at the date of first registration, while private hire vehicles must comply with Euro 6 emission standards.
• MOT Testing: Adjustments were made to the MOT testing requirements for older vehicles. Hackney carriage vehicles that are 11 years of age or more will require an MOT and compliance test every six months. Private hire vehicles that are eight years of age or more will also require an MOT and compliance test every six months.
• Tinted Windows: Updated requirements for tinted windows were established. The front windscreen must allow at least 75% of light through, the front side windows must allow at least 70% of light through, and the windows rear of the B pillar must allow a minimum light transmission of 30%. No windows or glass fitted to the vehicle may have been subject to an enhanced film or aftermarket tinting post-manufacture.
• Portable Steps: Vehicles with a top tread for the entrance exceeding 38 centimetres from the ground must be fitted with a step to allow easy access. Both fitted and portable steps must be robust to carry the weight of a passenger and covered with a non-slip surface. The driver must risk assess the use of a portable step on each occasion as requested by a passenger³.

These changes aim to align with the Department for Transport's Best Practice Guidance and the Statutory Standards, ensuring the safety and environmental compliance of licensed vehicles.

Implications and Future Directions

The decisions made during the Regulatory and General Purposes Committee meeting reflect the council's ongoing commitment to recognizing distinguished service, protecting local institutions, and ensuring the safety and compliance of public transport services. The amendments to the licensing criteria, in particular, are expected to enhance the environmental standards and safety of Hackney carriage and private hire vehicles operating in the Wirral.

As we have discussed in previous emails, the council's focus on community engagement and infrastructural development remains a recurring theme. The new amendments align with these ongoing priorities, promising continued efforts to enhance the borough's social and economic landscape.

This week, the Wirral Council held a Council Meeting on Wednesday, 22 May 2024. The meeting covered several key issues, including the behavior of protesters, the adoption of a revised council constitution, the appointment of committee chairs and vice-chairs, and the allocation of seats on the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee. The meeting was marked by significant debate, particularly around the fair representation of the Green Party in council roles.

Protester Behavior

Councillors expressed concern over the behavior of protesters who verbally abused and threatened council members, particularly targeting female members. Councillor Green and Councillor Gilchrist emphasized the need to ensure safety and condemned the aggression.

We must ensure the safety of all council members and condemn any form of aggression. — Councillor Gilchrist

Legal officers will now be given statements to prevent the aggressive protesters from approaching the town hall in the future. This decision aims to protect council members and maintain a safe environment for conducting council business.

Adoption of Revised Council Constitution

The council discussed adopting a revised constitution with minor amendments proposed by the Monitoring Officer. Councillor Tony Cox moved the recommendations, and Councillor Gilchrist seconded.

The revised constitution will guide our governance for the 2024/2025 municipal year. — Councillor Tony Cox

The council adopted the revised constitution, which will now govern the council's operations for the upcoming year. This decision ensures that the council's governance framework remains up-to-date and effective.

Appointment of Committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs

The Green Party proposed amendments to ensure fair representation in committee chairs and vice-chairs, arguing that the current allocation was undemocratic and excluded Greens from positions of power. Councillor Onwemina, Councillor Jenkins, Councillor Graham, and Councillor Murphy were put forward for various roles.

We need fairness, proportionality, and diverse representation, including more women in leadership roles. — Councillor Onwemina

However, Councillors Gilchrist and Stewart argued that the proposals were last-minute and not in line with the council's governance process. They also accused the Greens of seeking power rather than fairness.

The proposals are not in line with our governance process and seem more about seeking power. — Councillor Gilchrist

The amendments proposed by the Green Party were rejected, and the original motion for committee chairs and vice-chairs was passed with 46 votes in favor, 14 against, and one abstention. This decision maintains the current allocation of committee roles, which the majority of the council deemed appropriate.

Allocation of Seats on the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee

The Green Party proposed an amendment to allocate one of the four seats on the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee to a Green councillor, arguing for proportional representation. Councillor Lamb and Councillor Molyneux highlighted the need for fair representation and the importance of having members who use public transport.

Fair representation is crucial, especially for those who use public transport. — Councillor Lamb

Councillor Gilchrist and Councillor Kelly pointed out that proportionality should be considered across the entire city region, not just within Wirral. They noted that the Greens already had representation from other areas.

Proportionality should be considered across the entire city region, not just within Wirral. — Councillor Gilchrist

The amendment was rejected with 14 votes in favor, 46 against, and one abstention. This decision reflects the council's stance on maintaining a broader perspective on proportional representation.

Other Appointments

The council also discussed appointments to other bodies and organizations. The Green Party proposed an amendment for fair representation on these bodies, but the amendment was rejected, and the original motion was passed with 60 votes in favor and one abstention.

Overall, the meeting was marked by significant debate over issues of fairness and representation, with the Green Party's proposals being consistently rejected by the majority of the council. This outcome suggests a continued preference for the existing governance structures and representation allocations within the council.

This week, the Wirral Council held two meetings. The most significant was the Council Annual Meeting on Wednesday, 15 May 2024. The Licensing Act Sub Committee also met on Friday, 17 May 2024, but details from this meeting are not yet available.

Council Annual Meeting Highlights

The annual meeting primarily focused on the transition of mayoral duties and the achievements of the outgoing mayor, Councillor Jerry Williams. Here are the key points:

Outgoing Mayor's Reflections

Councillor Jerry Williams shared highlights from his year in office, including the opening of Landican Memorial Gardens and visits from the Peruvian Embassy. He thanked his wife Irene and the Wirral Council team for their support, particularly during the Open Golf event in July. Williams also mentioned his involvement in various community events and fundraising for Birkenhead Dogs, Canals, and Autism Together.

I am deeply grateful for the support of my wife Irene and the entire Wirral Council team, especially during the Open Golf event in July. — Councillor Jerry Williams

Election of New Mayor

Councillor Cherry Povell was nominated and elected as the new Mayor of the Metropolitan Borough of Wirral for the 2024-25 municipal year. Councillor Geoff Green praised Povell's extensive public service, including her roles as a magistrate, solicitor, and member of the Council's pensions committee. Povell's dedication to improving children's lives was highlighted, including her work with the fostering panel and the neo-natal charity Incubabies.

Councillor Povell's dedication to public service and improving children's lives is commendable. — Councillor Geoff Green

New Mayor's Vision

Councillor Cherry Povell expressed her commitment to representing Wirral positively and supporting major transformational changes in the borough. She emphasized the importance of community involvement and volunteering, naming Incubabies and the Blind Sailing School as her main charities. Povell also mentioned upcoming projects funded by the government's leveling up fund, such as the transformation of Birkenhead and improvements to Wirral Waters.

I am committed to representing Wirral positively and supporting major transformational changes in our borough. — Councillor Cherry Povell

Deputy Mayor Appointment

Councillor Brian Kenney was appointed as the Deputy Mayor. Kenney made his declaration of acceptance and was invested with the Deputy Mayor's chain of office.

Ceremonial Activities

The meeting included performances by the Wirral Singers Choir and the presentation of commemorative medals to the Royal Air Force 1123 Hooton Park Easton Air Cadets. The outgoing Mayor, Jerry Williams, and his wife Irene were presented with past Mayor's badges.

Implications and Future Directions

The transition to Councillor Cherry Povell as the new mayor signals a continued focus on community involvement and transformational projects. Povell's emphasis on charities like Incubabies and the Blind Sailing School indicates a strong commitment to health and social welfare. The mention of projects funded by the government's leveling up fund, such as the transformation of Birkenhead and improvements to Wirral Waters, suggests significant infrastructural developments on the horizon.

The annual meeting concluded with the announcement that the second part of the annual council meeting would take place on May 22nd. This continuation will likely address further strategic and operational plans for the upcoming year.

As we have discussed in previous emails, the council's focus on community engagement and infrastructural development remains a recurring theme. The new mayor's vision aligns with these ongoing priorities, promising continued efforts to enhance the borough's social and economic landscape.

This week, the Wirral Council held three meetings, with the most significant being the Wirral Place Based Partnership Board on Tuesday, 07 May 2024. The Licensing Panel and Licensing Act Sub Committee also met, but details from these meetings are not yet available.

Wirral Place Based Partnership Board Meeting Highlights

The board tackled several critical issues impacting health and social care services:

1. CUNY Services and Crisis Response: The council emphasized the need for better attendance at meetings to avoid delays in enhancing CUNY services and crisis responses. The lack of stakeholder engagement could hinder timely improvements in these areas.

2. Children and Young Peoples Program: The program's underperformance has prompted a planned refresh of the action plan. This shift could improve effectiveness but might require additional resources or adjustments in operations.

3. Involvement of Disabled and Long-term Health Condition Groups: The council plans to engage more community groups in planning, aiming for more inclusive policy-making. This approach requires managing diverse opinions and needs effectively.

4. Unscheduled Care Improvements: Initiatives to reduce hospital stays and improve patient flow were discussed. However, the financial and independence costs associated with increased care packages were noted, highlighting the challenge of balancing immediate healthcare outcomes with long-term sustainability.

5. ADHD Treatment and Diagnosis: The board discussed the challenges in diagnosing and treating ADHD, including medication shortages and the impact of private diagnoses. There's a recognized need for a more robust system to manage ADHD care, which might necessitate regulatory changes.

The meeting also revealed external pressures from private healthcare providers and schools in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, pointing to broader systemic issues that may need addressing beyond the council's immediate plans.

Financial and Strategic Planning

The board reviewed the financial performance, noting a significant forecasted deficit of £46.8 million. Discussions focused on the need for financial recovery, emphasizing workforce productivity and efficient patient care. This situation implies potential service adjustments and budget cuts, impacting community health services and hospital operations.

The updated Whirl Health and Care Plan for 2024-25 was discussed, with a focus on continuing existing programs and integrating new national health objectives. This strategic alignment is expected to improve overall health outcomes and system efficiency.

Unscheduled Care Improvement Program

The board noted improvements in patient discharge processes and reduced hospital stays. The decision to continue focusing on this program is based on its success in enhancing patient flow and reducing unnecessary hospital occupancy, crucial for both patient outcomes and financial stability.

The complexities of mental health services were underscored by a debate about ADHD over-diagnosis and medication shortages, suggesting a need for a review of diagnostic criteria and treatment practices.

This meeting highlighted several ongoing challenges and strategic decisions that could significantly impact the delivery of health and social care services in Wirral. As these plans are implemented, they will likely influence the council's ability to meet health needs effectively while managing financial constraints.