The Stockport Council meeting on Thursday 13 November 2025 saw councillors debate and vote on a range of issues, including a significant motion on road safety improvements across the borough. Key decisions were also made regarding the adoption of the Youth Justice Plan 2025-26 and the Gambling Policy Statement of Licensing Principles 2025-2028.

Road Safety Improvements Across Stockport

A motion was put forward by Councillor Jon Byrne and seconded by Councillor Helen Hibbert, calling for continuing road safety improvements across Stockport. The motion highlighted the Vision Zero Strategy, aiming to eliminate road deaths and life-changing injuries by 2040, and cited research on the benefits of reducing speed limits. It proposed a delivery plan for 20mph speed limits on residential streets, a review of 40mph urban roads with a view to reducing them to 30mph, continued work with Transport for Greater Manchester for School Streets and camera cars, and a public awareness campaign on speeding and dangerous parking. The motion also requested a report to Full Council within six months detailing progress and an assessment of the cost of inaction.

An amendment was moved by Councillor Grace Baynham and seconded by Councillor Angie Clark, which acknowledged the existing policy framework and ongoing delivery of improvements. The amendment stated that a delivery plan for 20mph limits already exists and that further rollout depends on additional funding, particularly where traffic calming is required. It confirmed that work on reviewing 40mph roads is programmed for the next capital programme and that Stockport is actively contributing to the GM target for School Streets. The amendment also confirmed that the council already delivers and supports public awareness campaigns and will continue to work with Transport for Greater Manchester to secure further funding. The amendment proposed reporting progress on school streets, enforcement, and awareness campaigns, and offered to write to the Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor and Chief Constable, as well as to the Greater Manchester Authority and National Government, to ask for extra funding.

Following debate, the amendment was agreed. The motion, as amended, was then put to a vote. The meeting was extended beyond its scheduled duration to allow for the conclusion of business.

Youth Justice Plan 2025-26

The Council approved and adopted the Youth Justice Plan for 2025-26. This statutory plan, required under Section 40 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, outlines the Youth Justice Partnership's responsibilities and priorities for the coming year. The plan details interventions from prevention through to custody and resettlement, with a focus on embedding youth justice and complex safeguarding alignment, strengthening social work practice, and improving links with education providers. The plan also addresses risks such as funding uncertainty and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on service delivery.

Gambling Policy - Statement of Licensing Principles 2025-2028

The Council approved and adopted the Gambling Policy – Statement of Licensing Principles for 2025-2028. This policy is reviewed every three years under the Gambling Act 2005. The adopted policy largely aligns with those across the Greater Manchester region, while acknowledging local demographics. It reiterates the council's commitment to the three licensing objectives: preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and protecting children and vulnerable persons from harm. The policy notes that the council awaits further legislative changes from the Government's review of the Gambling Act before undertaking a full review of its policy.

Other Business

The Council also approved proposed amendments to the Financial Procedure Rules and the Monitoring Officer Protocol to reflect new procurement legislation and updated Local Government Association guidance. The Business Programme for 2026/27 was also considered and approved, maintaining the established schedule of meetings.

During the Leader's Report and Cabinet Question Time, discussions touched upon the draft Stockport Local Plan, with Cabinet Members encouraging resident involvement in the upcoming consultation. There were also updates on various council activities, including regeneration projects, community cohesion efforts, and the Greater Manchester Care Leavers Awards.

Scrutiny Committees presented their minutes and work programmes, covering areas such as Adult Social Care & Health, Children & Families, Communities & Transport, Corporate Resource Management & Governance, and Housing, Economy & Environment. Several Area Committees also met, discussing local issues including parking, ward flexibility funding, and planning applications.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Youth Justice Plan 2025-26 and the Gambling Policy Statement of Licensing Principles 2025-2028, alongside the approval of amendments to the Council's Constitution. The road safety motion, as amended, was also agreed, signalling a commitment to ongoing improvements in this area.