Decision details

Members were presented with the report and recommendations of the Scrutiny working group by the Director of Communications & Interim Head of Democratic Services, following the Notice of Motion presented at the September Council meeting in respect of Snow Wardens.

The Director advised of the creation of a working group to look into the proposal of voluntary Snow Wardens within the County Borough and the need to expedite the groups consideration, due to the subject matter.

Members were advised of the discussions at the Working group meeting which met on the 9^th October and the subsequent recommendations.

Councillor Bradwick, as Chair of the Working Group spoke on the item.

The Leader thanked the Working Group for their recommendations and the need to ensure that the Council supports residents to become more resilient during the inclement weather and build upon the good will of neighbours.  He welcomed the recommendations in relation to lines of communication and the need for early communication with both Members and residents.  The Leader expressed his concerns of taking forward a blanket policy and the risk that could potentially impose on residents if they were working in isolation during severe inclement weather. He also added that for the benefit of all Members he would look to bring one of the Council’s mini snow ploughs on site before the Council meeting on the 24^th.

The Deputy Leader also expressed her thanks to the working group for looking into the matter in the limited timescales and welcomed the recommendations of the working group.  The Deputy Leader commented on the lines of communication and added that communication with the Town and Community Councils was also important.

Following discussions it was RESOLVED:

1.    To endorse the recommendations of the Scrutiny Working Group as outlined below, subject to some minor amendments:-

             i.       That the dedicated number for Elected Members is utilised to provide Members with  support and advice for all Elected Members during periods of inclement weather;

            ii.       That a targeted campaign is undertaken to promote community self help (Communities coming together to help each other on a voluntary basis during times of extreme weather) and to encourage residents to become ‘good neighbours’;

           iii.       That appropriate, practical guidance and good practice in relation to community action in severe weather is shared with the residents of RCT via the Council website (GOV UK -Guidance on Community Action in Severe Weather); and

           iv.       That further work is undertaken in respect of the public liability aspect of insurance for voluntary work undertaken in a safe manner.

2             That the Mini Snow Ploughsare brought on site before the October Council meeting for all Members to view.