Agenda and minutes

Lisa Handley and Michelle Doherty representatives from Family Action Cumbria attended the meeting for agenda item 6 – 0-19 Child and Family Support Service (minute 33 refers).

The Chair, on behalf of members, welcomed Ellie Dobson the newly appointed Community Development Assistant to her first meeting of the Committee.

An apology for absence was received from Ms H Wall.

Members are invited to disclose any disclosable pecuniary interest they have in any item on the agenda which comprises

1          Details of any employment, office, trade, profession or vocation carried on for profit or gain.

2          Details of any payment or provision of any other financial benefit (other than from the authority) made or provided within the relevant period in respect of any expenses incurred by you in carrying out duties as a member, or towards your election expenses.  (This includes any payment or financial benefit from a trade union within the meaning of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

3          Details of any contract which is made between you (or a body in which you have a beneficial interest) and the authority

            (a)    Under which goods or services are to be provided or works are to be executed; and

            (b)    Which has not been fully discharged.

4          Details of any beneficial interest in land which is within the area of the authority. 

5          Details of any licence (alone or jointly with others) to occupy land in the area of the authority for a month or longer.

6          Details of any tenancy where (to your knowledge)

            (a)    The landlord is the authority; and

            (b)    The tenant is a body in which you have a beneficial interest.

7          Details of any beneficial interest in securities of a body where

            (a)    That body (to your knowledge) has a place of business or land in the area of the authority; and

            (b)    Either –

(i)            The total nominal value of the securities exceeds £25,000 or one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that body; or

                     (ii)        If that share capital of that body is of more than one class, the total nominal value of the shares of any one class in which the relevant person has a beneficial interest exceeds one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that class.

In addition, you must also disclose other non-pecuniary interests set out in the Code of Conduct where these have not already been registered.

Note

A “disclosable pecuniary interest” is an interest of a councillor or their partner (which means spouse or civil partner, a person with whom they are living as husband or wife, or a person with whom they are living as if they are civil partners).

Mr B Shirley declared a non-pecuniary interest in agenda item 7 – Dalton Place Plan (minute 34 refers) as he was Manager of Dalton United FC.

RESOLVED,    that the press and public be not excluded from the meeting during consideration of any item of business.

There were no questions, statements or petitions relating to the business of the Committee on this occasion.

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on 17 September 2021 (copy enclosed).

RESOLVED,    that the minutes of the meeting held on 17 September 2021 be confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

To receive a presentation from the Assistant Director and Service Manager, Family Action (copy enclosed).

The Committee received a presentation from representatives of Family Action; a national charity started in 1869 with a presence in Cumbria since 2020 who won Charity of the Year in 2021.

Members were informed of their service levels and their proposed wide?range of service delivery for the next quarter. 

The Committee was informed of the successful national phone line and schools breakfast programme.  During the course of discussion officers agreed that better communication was required to promote the national phone line number and it was agreed that elected members would also help with this promotion.

The local Member for Dalton North asked for further information on the Domestic Abuse Recovery and ACEs Recovery Toolkits and asked whether there were any aspirations to have a physical location in Dalton.  The Committee was informed that specific services such as ‘Mums Minds Matter’ were available at the Drill Hall, Dalton and they were advertised through social media.

The local Member for Hawcoat drew attention to a ‘Support Bubble’ Facebook page and it was agreed that the details would be made available to the officers who would connect with this Group.

The local Member for Hindpool (Cabinet Member for Children's Services) welcomed the work of the Service and expressed appreciation for the continued work which had been undertaken during the pandemic whilst drawing attention to the importance of early intervention.  Officers’ attention was drawn to the Children’s Trust which worked collaboratively with other agencies and aimed to ensure a smooth transition took place during the Local Government Reorganisation process. 

The Committee noted the future challenges and plans for the Barrow services which included local need, demand for child and family support services, new services, partnership working, Local Government reorganisation, what was needed from them as a provider and the key people with the conversation.

A discussion took place regarding funding and members were informed that the Contract was commissioned by the County Council with the charity as a whole receiving national and local funding.

The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, congratulated the invaluable service which was provided by Family Action Cumbria and highlighted the welcomed future updates.

[Electoral Division: Dalton North and Dalton South]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed/Appendix to follow).

This report provides details of the Place Plan for Dalton and endorsement to submit the document to the Borderlands Partnership.

Members considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which provided details of the Place Plan for Dalton and endorsement to submit the document to the Borderlands Partnership.  The Committee noted the development of the Plan was supported by a programme of engagement and with the support of a Town Team which brought together a range of community stakeholders.

The Committee was informed that the Borderlands Growth Deal included provision of the Place Programme, however, was subject to approval from Government and was currently with Government for decision.  Officers explained the Place Programme had an indicative allocation of £18m for Cumbria for six towns.  It was noted that release of the funding for individual towns within the Programme, was subject to approval of a Place Plan and then a subsequent Borderlands Town Investment Plan (BTIP) by the Borderlands Partnership.  It was explained that the Place Plan was wider than just Borderland’s investment and was designed to lever in funding from a range of different funding bodies.

The local Member for Dalton North asked whether any public engagement would take place and it was explained that public consultation would be considered for the next phase of the process.

The local Member for Dalton South suggested that Dalton Town Council receive a presentation on this matter and it was agreed this would be undertaken by the Place and Enterprise Officer - Place and Enterprise.

RESOLVED,   that the Dalton Place Plan be endorsed and its submission to the Borderlands Partnership, with delegation given to the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure in consultation with the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Local Committee and the local members for Dalton North and South to agree the final designed version.

[Electoral Divisions: Barrow Island]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report sets out the responses to the statutory consultation and advertising of The County of Cumbria (Various Roads, Barrow-in-Furness) (Consolidation and Minor Amendment of Traffic Regulations) (Order 2001) Variation Order (No. 43) 20>< (“the Order”).

The Committee considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which detailed the responses to the statutory consultation and advertising of The County of Cumbria (Various Roads, Barrow-in-Furness) (Consolidation and Minor Amendment of Traffic Regulations) (Order 2001) Variation Order (No. 43) 20>< (“the Order”).

RESOLVED,   that the County of Cumbria (Various Roads, Barrow-in-Furness) Consolidation and Minor Amendment of Traffic Regulations) (Order 2001) Variation Order (No. 43) 20>< (“the Order”) be brought into operation as advertised having taken into account the objections and representations which were received, and having also taken into consideration the matters contained in Section 122(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (more specifically referred to in paragraph 7.2 of the report).

[Electoral Divisions: Hindpool]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report seeks approval from the Local Committee to progress to statutory advertising and consultation.

Members considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which sought approval from the Local Committee to progress to statutory advertising and consultation of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) which would amend and reduce the existing parking bays with additional No Waiting at any time restrictions on Duke Street, Barrow to allow for enhancement of the street scene incorporating wider pavements and trees.

The local Member for Hindpool whilst acknowledging that buses would use the area on Duke Street in front of the Town Hall raised a concern about the potential increase in other vehicles and asked that this be investigated.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager agreed with the concerns raised and explained that the matter was part of the former Future High Street Fund and would be considered further at a future date.

The Chair of the Local Committee raised his concerns regarding the lack of communication with members regarding this matter and asked that invites to future meetings be extended to the Chair and Vice?Chair of the Local Committee together with the local Member.

RESOLVED,   to progress to statutory consultation and advertising of The County of Cumbria (Various Roads, Barrow-in-Furness) (Consolidation and Minor Amendment of Traffic Regulations) (Order 2001) Variation Order (No. 44) 20>< (“the Order”) the proposed effect of which is: -

                          (i)           to amend the extent of the existing parking bays with time limited parking for 1 hour no return within 2 hours Monday to Saturday 8am–6pm (as shown on the plan in Appendix 1a of the report);

                          (ii)          that lengths of No Waiting at Any Time (double yellow lines) be introduced adjacent to new tree pits (as indicated on the plan in Appendix 1a of the report);

                          (iii)         that the existing extent of Disabled Badge Holder Only parking be amended to result in three spaces remaining as currently but spread across three locations on Duke Street to increase accessibility (as indicated on the plan in Appendix 1a of the report);

                          (iv)         to note that the existing bus stop will be relocated slightly as part of the scheme, which will be completed following a notification process.

[Electoral Divisions: All Barrow]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report presents the Highways Revenue and Devolved Capital and Non-Devolved Capital budget finance reports and updates Members as to current progress on these budget lines.

The Committee considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which detailed the Highways Revenue and Devolved Capital and Non-Devolved Capital budget finance reports and updated members as to current progress on those budget lines.

Members noted the original budgets and were informed that following approval at the full County Council meeting in June 2021 to carry forward the under or accelerated spend during 2019/20 the Devolved Highways Revenue budget was now £883,064, Devolved Highways Capital budget was now £1,158,000 and the revised Devolved Highways Additional Pothole Repairs Capital budget was £802,000.

The Local Area Highways Manager explained the process which was still to be undertaken on the Devolved Capital budgets with regards to the top slicing of budgets.  Members raised their concerns with regards to this process and the problems this could cause when forecasting budgets.  It was suggested that this matter be raised by the Chair at the next Local Committee Chairs and Leadership meeting.

The local Member for Dalton North asked for assurances that the schemes at on Duke Street/School Street/Sandy Lane, Askam, Broughton Close/Ireleth Road and safety measures outside Askam Village School would be completed.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager confirmed to follow up on these schemes and update the Member on delivery.

The local Member for Dalton South asked for an update regarding a suggested change of traffic priority outside the Red Lion on Market Street, Dalton?in?Furness.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager explained no further investigations had taken place regarding this proposal as it was part of a housing development which had not yet been completed.

The Chair raised his concerns again regarding the lack of a ‘One?Way’ road sign on School Street, Barrow.  The Traffic Manager Team Leader confirmed that the sign had been ordered and would be installed as soon as possible.

The local Member for Roosecote asked for an update regarding the inclusion of the gritting of Holbeck Park Avenue as part of this year’s Winter Maintenance Programme.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager confirmed he had requested that this be included and would investigate the matter further.

The local Member for Ormsgill raised the concerns of constituents regarding a number of broken sign lights throughout the Barrow area.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager asked that the complaints be added to HIAMS.

The local Member for Hindpool raised concerns regarding the lack of communication from Barrow Borough Council regarding their street lights; highlighting the lack of lighting in the Preston Street/William Street area as a safety issue.  It was agreed that the Local Area Highways Network Manager would discuss this matter further with the County Council’s Lighting Manager with a view to the possibility of installing a new light in the area.

The Committee discussed the issues encountered for both members and constituents with regards to the responsibility for road lighting being split between the County Council and Barrow Borough Council, highlighting the need to work in partnership.  During the course of discussion  ...  view the full minutes text for item 37.

[Electoral Divisions: All Barrow]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report seeks approval for the Provisional Devolved Highways Capital Programme 2022/23.including funding allocated within the additional pothole fund stream, which will form the basis of the Local Committee’s Devolved Highways Capital Programme for 2022/23 and provide a core programme for future years subject to annual review.

Members considered a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which sought approval from Barrow Local Committee for the Provisional Devolved Highways Capital Programme 2022/23 including funding allocated within the additional pothole fund stream.  Officers explained this would form the basis of the Local Committee’s Devolved Highways Capital Programme for 2022/23 and provide a core programme for future years subject to annual review. 

The Local Committee was informed that the indicative allocation for 2022/23 was £991,000 for the devolved capital element and £728,000 for the additional pothole fund allocation.  Members noted that a further report would be brought before Local Committee in March 2022 when budget allocations had been finalised by full Council.

RESOLVED,   that the provisional Devolved Highways Capital Programme and Additional Pothole fund for 2022/23 (as set out in Appendices 1 and 2 of the report), be approved subject to final determination following the approval of the 2022/23 Council budget early in 2022.

[Electoral Divisions: All Barrow]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report gives recommendations for approval by Barrow Local Committee from the Highways Advisory Sub-Group meeting held on 12 October 2021.

The Committee considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which gave details of the discussion and recommendations of the Highways Advisory Sub-Group for the Barrow area which met on 12 October 2021.

The local Member for Hindpool informed the Committee that the Streetsafe event in Buccleugh Court was scheduled to take place in the New Year and extended an invite to the Chair and Vice?Chair of the Local Committee.

The local Member for Dalton South raised concerns regarding the issues with vehicles on Crellin Street.  The Traffic Manager Team Leader confirmed that discussions were taking place with the County Council’s Parking Team and a further report on this matter would be considered at the next meeting of the Local Committee in January.

During the course of discussion the local Member for Hindpool raised concerns regarding the length of time which it had taken to resolve the matter on Crellin Street highlighting the potential increased problems which could occur over the Christmas period.

The local Member for Walney North emphasised his concerns regarding the length of time it was taking to find a resolution to the traffic problems at Hollywood Park roundabout.  The Local Area Highways Network Manager acknowledged the concerns raised and informed members that he was still awaiting a response from the Land Agent following a survey which had been undertaken by the site owner.  During the course of discussion it was suggested that the Land Agent be invited to a future meeting of the Committee. 

The local Member for Roosecote raised his concerns regarding the lack of communication from the Flood and Development Management Officer regarding Peasholme Lane.  It was agreed the Chair of the Highways Sub?Group would contact the officer concerned and report back direct.

RESOLVED,     that the minutes of the meeting of Barrow Highways Advisory Sub?Group held on 12 October 2021 (attached as Appendix 1 to the report) be noted.

[Electoral Divisions: All Barrow]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Corporate, Customer and Community Services (copy enclosed).

This report provides Local Committee with an update on its work and agreed activity since the last meeting of the Committee.  It also includes a financial statement in support of the work of the Local Committee for Members’ information.

The Committee considered a report from the Executive Director – Corporate, Customer and Community Services which detailed information from across the Community teams including Community Development, Archives and libraries, and provided an update on work and agreed activity since the last meeting of the Committee.

Members were given an update on the work of the Birchall Trust which provided a specialist support to people whose lives had been affected by sexual abuse/rape in Cumbria and Lancashire.  Officers explained their activities were delivered under 3 pillars: Wellbeing, Counselling & Education which enabled them to provide each individual with a holistic package of support that promoted recovery, whilst undertaking awareness-raising activities in the local community that reduced and prevented further harm.

Members were informed they were requesting funding from the Local Committee to enable them to develop their Education Programme and to run a project, Feeling Safe, Standing Strong, in local schools throughout South Cumbria and North Lancashire.

The Committee received an update on Dropzone, a youth organisation which supported young people from the ages of 8–23 years who ran an extended education provision for young people who struggled with mainstream settings and also delivered youth work across Furness.

Members were informed that Dropzone had worked in partnership with the Police and schools to deliver a knife crime awareness project in local secondary schools and would like to fund the Knife Angel sculpture to come to Barrow in January 2022 to raise awareness throughout communities.  It was explained the funding would cover the cost of the Knife Angel and motivational speakers with Dropzone securing further funding to cover staff and resources costs.

The Vice-Chair of Barrow & Families Children’s Partnership – Barrow Children’s Trust Board informed the Committee that both BAE and the BID had agreed to provide support for the funding of the Knife Angel and a request had been made to Cumbria County Council to obtain funding for transport to enable children from outlying districts to visit the sculpture. 

The Committee received an update from the Community Development Officer on the Emergency Referral Process informing members that 50 referrals had taken place during the previous six weeks.

The Committee was informed of the successful visit of the HARRI (Health Advice Recovery Resilience Information) Bus in Askam and Dalton and welcomed the intention that it would visit every electoral division in the Borough, with dates for each session being finalised with local Members.

Members received a positive update from the Library Customer Manager for Barrow who informed the Committee that the Barrow Library and Archive Service continued to deliver a wide range of activities and work across communities within the Borough. 

The Committee was informed that following the staff restructure library hours would return to normal with extended lunchtime opening at Roose and Walney Libraries which were key to providing residents with greater access to services.  It was explained that discussions were taking place with regards to Askam Library which included the exploration of opening the Library on Saturdays.

Members also received an  ...  view the full minutes text for item 40.

To note the minutes of the meeting of the Local Committee Chairs and Leadership meetings held on 27 September 2021 (copy enclosed).

RESOLVED,   that the minutes of the Local Committee Chairs and Leadership meeting held on 27 September 2021 be noted.

There were no reports from members serving on outside bodies on this occasion.

The next scheduled meeting will take place on Monday 17 January 2022 at 10.30 am in the Community Room, Nan Tait Centre, Barrow?in?Furness, LA14 1LG.

RESOLVED,    that the next scheduled meeting will take place on Monday 17 January 2022 at 10.30 am in the Community Room, Nan Tait Centre, Barrow?in?Furness, LA14 1LG.