The Heatons & Reddish Area Committee met on Monday 19 October 2026 to discuss ward flexibility funding, traffic regulation orders, and community building issues. Decisions were made regarding funding for local organisations and the permanence of traffic orders.

Ward Flexibility Funding

The committee considered applications for Ward Flexibility Funding from three organisations.

ARC Mindset CIC received £200 towards the cost of coaching interventions for disadvantaged groups. The funding will equip volunteer coaches with starter kits to make sessions more practical and engaging for young people, aiming to build self-awareness, teamwork, and communication skills, and reduce social isolation. Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick expressed support, noting ARC's past work. Councillor Rachel Wise inquired about guidance for dividing funds between wards, and was informed that applicants can contact democratic services for assistance. Councillor Jo Williams asked about the scope of clients, and it was agreed that an update on project outcomes could be sought.

North West Steel Band Association was granted £190.40 towards the cost of their annual concert in St. Peter's Square. The funding will contribute to a gazebo, insurance for their van, and van hire. Councillor David White expressed his support, recalling the vital role steel bands play and suggesting future engagement in Holder Square. Councillor James Frizzell echoed this sentiment, praising the organisation's work with diverse groups and its accessibility. Councillor Colin Foster also supported the application, referencing his awareness of steel bands in local schools. The committee agreed to facilitate contact between the association and the Reddish District Centre Manager.

Inspire Capital Sports CIC had an application for £166.68 deferred. Councillor Colin Foster raised concerns about the absence of a child protection policy, stating that the application could not proceed without one. The committee agreed to defer the decision and request further information.

Traffic Regulation Orders

Two traffic regulation orders were discussed and decisions were made.

Stitch Lane, Heaton Norris: The committee agreed to make permanent an experimental Traffic Regulation Order for No Waiting at Any Time on Stitch Lane. Councillor James Frizzell explained that the experimental order, implemented in April 2024 due to bin lorries being obstructed by parked cars, had resolved the issue without reported problems or complaints. The order will now be made permanent.

Conway Street, Reddish: The committee approved a revised Traffic Regulation Order for Conway Street. An objection had been received from a business on the estate regarding the proposed No Waiting Monday to Saturday 7am – 7pm restriction. Following discussions, the restriction was reduced to balance the business's operational needs with highway safety. The revised order will introduce No Waiting Monday to Saturday 7am – 7pm on a shorter section of the north-west side of Conway Street.

Community Building and Infrastructure

Community Buildings, Structural Integrity of the Building and Deterioration of the Fabric of the Building: Councillor David White introduced this item, highlighting the long-running issues with a specific building and the need for information from the council on its plans and available funding. He stressed the importance of cross-party working and ensuring the building does not deteriorate further. Councillor Rachel Wise mentioned that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government had been contacted regarding derelict buildings funds, and that buildings like the 1908 buildings in Reddish were being considered. Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick, who is due to leave the area soon, suggested an honest appraisal of all options for a leisure facility in Reddish, including the feasibility of alternative sites and improved parking, while acknowledging the legacy of the current building. Councillor James Frizzell added that Reddish had lost several public services and that this building was totemistic for residents. The committee agreed to request a report that considered alternative sites.

Bridge Retaining Walls at Reddish Road, Reddish: Councillor David White raised concerns about the condition of bridge retaining walls at Reddish Road, adjacent to Reddish South Station. He presented historical documentation indicating that Stockport Council, as successor to the former railway company and local board, had a perpetual maintenance responsibility from 1888. Councillor White detailed significant cracks in the retaining walls and movements in the carriageway, calling for a full survey to ensure safety and for residents to be informed of the outcome. The committee agreed to request a report from the relevant director.

Dog Control and Dog Fouling in Public Spaces: Councillor Colin Foster raised concerns about the expiry of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) relating to dog control and fouling. He stated that the original order from 2018 had not been updated and that the current order, renewed in March 2022, was due to expire. Councillor Foster emphasised the importance of these orders in promoting responsible dog ownership and expressed dismay at the perceived lack of action. Councillor David White supported Councillor Foster's concerns, calling the situation a failure of basic council functions. Councillor Jo Williams questioned the council's previous statement about consultation, suggesting a timeline of events was needed to understand the situation fully. Councillor Liz Crix agreed with Councillor Foster's assessment. Councillor Rachel Wise suggested that lessons could be learned from the low response rate to consultations, particularly regarding reaching harder-to-reach individuals. Councillor Foster clarified that the previous communication from the cabinet member likely referred to a different PSPO and that the process for the dog control order had not even begun. The committee agreed to request the report as soon as possible.

Other Business

Neighbourhood Policing: Sergeant Cotton provided an update on policing in the area. She reported on new supervisory staff, current staffing levels for PCSOs and neighbourhood beat officers, and crime statistics, noting a reduction in residential burglaries but an increase in vehicle theft, particularly of motorbikes and mopeds. She also detailed efforts to tackle antisocial behaviour, including the use of live facial recognition vans and acceptable behaviour contracts. Sergeant Cotton mentioned upcoming operations for Halloween and Bonfire Night, visits from immigration officers, and a focus on retail crime and knife crime in November. Councillors raised concerns about vandalism in Heaton Norris and the ongoing issue of fireworks. Sergeant Cotton assured members that action was being taken and patrols would be increased. Councillor Wise thanked Sergeant Cotton for the update and mentioned positive feedback on Coffee with a Cop events. Councillor Colin Foster expressed concern about the lack of PCSOs in the Heatons, which Sergeant Cotton stated was a matter above her pay grade.

Chair's Announcements: Councillor Claire Vibert reminded the committee that the consultation on the Council's local plan was ending on 8 November and encouraged residents to submit their representations.

Petitions: A petition from residents of Bruskin Road requesting its inclusion in next year's capital programme for resurfacing was presented by Councillor David White. The petition was forwarded to the relevant department and cabinet member.

Development Applications: There were no development applications to consider.

Appeal Decisions, Current Planning Appeals and Enforcements: The committee noted a report summarising recent appeal decisions, current planning appeals, and enforcement actions. Councillor Jo Williams raised a query about a refused solar panel application on Clifton Road, citing the need for sustainable energy solutions, and it was agreed to seek a response from a planning officer.

Appointment of Councillors to Lay Wreaths: Councillors Colin Foster, Laura Smith, and Jo Williams were nominated to lay wreaths at Remembrance Day services at Heaton Mersey War Memorial, Reddish War Memorial, and St. Paul's Church, Heaton Moor, respectively.

Progress on Area Committee Decisions: The committee noted a report providing an update on decisions made at previous meetings and the current position on area flexibility funding and the highway and traffic management delegated budget.

Items 11 and 12, concerning ongoing works on Station Road, Reddish, and regeneration of Reddish, were withdrawn from the agenda at the request of Councillor David White.