The Community Services and Licensing Committee of Stroud Council met on Thursday 26 September 2024, where they discussed and made decisions on a range of important issues including the council's Cultural Strategy, the Gambling Act Statement of Principles, taxi licensing policy, and the Antisocial Behaviour Policy. Key decisions included recommending the adoption of the Cultural Strategy with a £250,000 allocation for its delivery, recommending the adoption of the Gambling Act Statement of Principles, amending the taxi and private hire vehicle licensing policy to allow vehicles up to seven years old on first licensing, and approving the new Antisocial Behaviour Policy.

Cultural Strategy

The committee considered the draft Cultural Strategy for Stroud district, which aims to harness the district's creativity to foster community resilience, wellbeing, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The strategy, developed through extensive consultation with elected members, cultural organisations, community groups, and residents, outlines six key themes: Creativity, Climate and Nature; Communicating and Connecting; Economy and Regeneration; Future Generations; Communities and Wellbeing; and Heritage and Place. The committee recommended that the Council adopt the Cultural Strategy and its accompanying Action Plan, and approve an allocation of £250,000 to support its implementation over two years. Responsibility for overseeing the strategy's implementation and reporting on progress was delegated to the Strategic Director of Communities, in consultation with the Strategic Director of Resources and the Chair of the Community Services and Licensing Committee.

Review of Stroud District Council's Statement of Principles under the Gambling Act 2005

The committee reviewed the proposed Statement of Principles under the Gambling Act 2005, which sets out how Stroud District Council will exercise its functions relating to gambling licensing. The Licensing Manager explained that the current statement expires in January 2025 and that, following public consultation, no major changes were proposed to the existing policy. Councillor Natalie Rothwell-Warn raised concerns about potential unreported online gambling, to which the Licensing Manager clarified that the council's remit is limited to licensing physical premises such as betting shops and arcades. Councillor Steve Robinson expressed his hope for government action on online gambling and stated his intention to write to the local MP regarding this issue. The committee recommended that the Council adopt the revised Statement of Principles for the period January 2025 to January 2028.

Review of Stroud District Council's Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing Policy

The committee discussed proposed amendments to the council's taxi and private hire vehicle licensing policy, specifically concerning the age criteria for vehicles on first licensing. The Licensing Manager explained that the Taxi Task and Finish Group had considered requests from local businesses facing rising vehicle costs and increasing competition. Following consultation with licence holders, the recommendation was to change the policy from a maximum age of five years old to seven years old for first licensing, while retaining exemptions for electric vehicles, ultra-low emission vehicles, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Councillor Marisa Godfrey inquired about the promotion of licensed taxis and whether the trade was aware of the recommendation, and the Licensing Manager confirmed that licensed vehicles are listed on the council's website. Councillor Jonathan Edmunds questioned the continued requirement for Euro 6 compliance and the availability of funding for electric or hybrid vehicles, with the Licensing Manager confirming that Euro 6 compliance would still be mandatory and that central government funding exists, though the cost of such vehicles remains a significant investment for local businesses. The committee unanimously resolved to amend the policy to allow vehicles up to seven years old on first licensing, with exemptions, effective from 1 November 2024.

Antisocial Behaviour Policy 2024

The Head of Community Services presented the proposed corporate Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) Policy, explaining that while the Housing team would maintain its own specific policy due to tenancy complexities, it would be reviewed against the corporate framework. The policy establishes a four-tiered approach: prevention, early identification, supportive intervention, and enforcement. The committee was informed of extensive engagement and consultation undertaken since summer 2023, with consideration given to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, the Serious Violence Duty, and the Strategic Plan. The policy also highlights the impact of ASB on individuals and outlines plans for website enhancements for reporting ASB, the development of a Youth Strategy, continued partnership working with SOLACE, a review of enforcement penalties, and an assessment of CCTV provision. Councillor Paul Turner and Councillor Ian Hamilton expressed their thanks for the policy, with Councillor Steve Robinson noting concerns about the Police and Crime Commissioner's funding for PCSOs and the potential impact on community wardens. Councillor Edmunds acknowledged ASB as an ongoing issue but welcomed the joined-up policy. The committee unanimously approved the Antisocial Behaviour Policy 2024.

Appointments to Outside Bodies

The committee made several appointments to outside bodies. Councillor Marisa Godfrey was appointed as the substitute representative for Stroud Citizens Advice, and Councillor Carol Kambites as the substitute representative for Woodchester Park Mansion. Councillor Marisa Godfrey was appointed as the main representative for the Cowle Trust (Museum in the Park), and Councillor Gary Luff as the main representative for the Gyde Charity.

Member/Officer Reports (To Note)

The committee received updates on several items for noting:

• Gloucestershire Health Overview Scrutiny Committee: Councillor Steve Robinson raised concerns about the 138 patients waiting to be discharged from hospitals.
• Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel: No comments or questions were raised regarding the update.
• Salix Project Update Officer Report: No comments or questions were raised regarding the update on decarbonisation works at Stratford Park Leisure Centre, the Museum in the Park, and The Pulse.
• Abandoned Vehicles Information Sheet: No comments or questions were raised regarding the data on abandoned vehicles.
• Update on Leisure Service (Bringing SPLC in house): No comments or questions were raised regarding the insourcing of Stratford Park Leisure Centre.

Work Programme

The committee noted the work programme for future meetings.