The Bramhall & Cheadle Hulme South Area Committee approved grants for local community groups and decided not to confirm a Tree Preservation Order. The committee also discussed the future remit of area committees and received updates on local programmes and ongoing decisions.

Community Funding Approved

The committee approved two applications for Ward Flexibility Funding. The 2nd Cheadle Scout Group received a grant of £250 towards the cost of repairing and future-proofing the sewer and drainage system at their headquarters. Additionally, the Bramhall Together Trust was awarded £1,000 to support staging, entertainment, and marketing costs for their Light-Up Bramhall event and other subsequent community events. This funding was drawn from both the Bramhall North and Bramhall South & Woodford ward allocations.

Tree Preservation Order Not Confirmed

A report was presented detailing an objection to a proposed Tree Preservation Order (TPO) at 47 Gillbent Road, Cheadle Hulme. The committee resolved not to confirm the Order. Concerns were raised that the tree did not appear to make a significant visual contribution to the streetscene. While acknowledging the public benefit of trees, the decision reflected the specific circumstances of this particular order. The council's policy is to replant trees where possible, and it was noted that assessments for TPOs now use the most current guidance.

Discussion on the Remit of Area Committees

The committee considered a report outlining the ongoing work of the Constitution Working Party, which is examining the current delegations to area committees. Members expressed the view that area committees are a valued feature of governance in Stockport and that devolving decision-making remains the correct approach. They emphasised the importance of regularly reviewing these arrangements to ensure they remain appropriate. Specific points raised included the value of area committees in considering development applications, the discretion for each area committee to choose its chair, and the importance of selecting meeting venues that ensure accessibility to all parts of the communities they represent. The committee's comments on these matters were forwarded to the Constitution Working Party for consideration.

Neighbourhoods and Prevention Programme Update

An update was provided on the One Stockport Local Neighbourhoods and Prevention Programme. It was noted that there had been an incremental improvement in the comparative levels of polarisation within the borough, although further work is needed to reduce this gap. The committee noted the report and requested further updates on the programme at future meetings.

Parking Review on Hillbrook Road

A report was presented assessing a petition submitted by residents of Hillbrook Road, Bramhall, requesting a review of parking arrangements. The report recommended that no further interventions be taken at this stage, though local councillors stated they would continue to monitor the situation. The committee recommended to the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services that no further action be taken.

Community Engagement and Other Updates

The Chair provided announcements regarding local events, including the closure of the car park at Bramhall Precinct due to United Utilities works, the upcoming International Food and Craft Event, the Bramhall Arts Festival, and the Friends of Hesketh Park annual barbeque. A public drop-in session concerning the extension of the Woodford Garden Village development was also announced.

The committee also noted a report summarising recent appeal decisions, current planning appeals, and enforcement actions within the area. An update on progress on previous Area Committee decisions and the current position on area flexibility funding and the highway and traffic management delegated budget was also received and noted. There were no public questions or petitions submitted to the meeting.