Agenda and minutes

There were no apologies for absence.

At this point Members must declare whether they have an interest, whether personal or prejudicial, in any of the items on the agenda. Members must also declare if they are subject to their party group whip in relation to any items under consideration.

There were no declarations of interest.

There were no whipping declarations.

The minutes of the meeting held 6^th November 2008, were approved subject to removal of Cllrs Croft, Sandford and Thacker from the apologies.

To consider the draft Budget and Corporate Strategy for 2009/10.

Members are reminded to bring their copy of the budget book for this item

The panel received a report from the Executive Director – Strategic Resources on the budgets proposals for 2009/10-2011/12. The report covered;

1. The grant settlement and consequential “claw back”.
2. The pressures on the budget including the credit crunch.
3. Council Tax proposals at 2.5% and the rationale for adjusting the original projection.

The Panel made the following comments on the budget proposals;

1. Clarification was sought on the timing of the proposed reduction in the workforce. The Director confirmed that it was intended that the initial phase would be complete by 31^st March 2009.
2. Clarification was sought on the nature of the work undertaken by the Pest Control Service, and the definition of “non statutory” services. The Executive Director – Operations confirmed that the only statutory service related to the management of stray dogs. The financial challenges of providing the service were outlined.

To consider the proposed Local Transport Plan (LTP) capital programme for 2008/09 prior to consideration by the Cabinet Member for Environment

The Committee received a report from representatives of Transport & Engineering regarding the proposed Local Transport Plan Capital Programme of Works 2009/10. The report covered the rationale for prioritising and selecting schemes; proposed schemes for 2009/10 and the funding arrangements.

The Panel made the following comments

1. The definition of “haunch” and “slurry seal” was requested. Officers advised that “haunch” related to rebuilding the sides of highways, and “slurry seal” was form of resurfacing.
2. Cllr Fox asked about the process for the construction and sighting for new lamp posts. Mark Speed agreed to provide details in writing.
3. Cllr Thacker sought clarification on the plans for Lincoln Road. Mark Speed agreed to provide details in writing.
4. Cllr Day sought clarification on the process of identifying accident “black spots” and whether there was any mechanism for capturing all accidents not just injuries/fatalities. The Executive Director – Operations confirmed that work was ongoing to provide this data, to allow resources to be deployed in a more effective manner.
5. Cllr Dobbs agreed to send detailed map of an area of concern on Whittlesey Road, Thorney.

To note and consider any Executive Decisions taken since the last meeting that are relevant to the remit of this Panel

There were no comments raised on he Executive Decisions.

To consider the latest version of the Forward Plan

The nature of the Junction 8 signalisation project was confirmed to members in response to a question.

To receive a standard report providing feedback on any issues or questions raised at previous meetings

The Panel received the Feedback and Update Report. The Executive Director – Operations provided an additional updated on the parking review

• Concerns of residents and members were raised on a range of issues including cost, access to spaces, commercial/over sized vehicles and availability of permits.
• The process for developing new schemes was outlined, and it was emphasised that they would only be progressed if the residents requested.
• Officers confirmed that not all schemes ran 24/7 and some provided restriction “windows”.

Members were advised that it was hoped to have the review completed and implemented by the end of February. Members also noted that the authority was also undertaking a wider review of enforcement activity.

To agree the current work programme

The Panel noted the plan.

Thursday 5 March 2009 in the Bourges and Viersen Rooms

The Panel noted that the next meeting was on 5 March 2009.