To receive an update from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Richard Biggs.
Minutes:
The Leader of the Council, Councillor Biggs, gave an update on the work of the Council. He began by thanking the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Budget Scrutiny Panel for their work throughout the year.
The Leader spoke about the challenges presented by the unexpected closure of the Harlequin theatre. The closure brought a loss of income, but also a saving in costs, and a full report would be presented to Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The pantomime had been relocated and all bookings for the forty-three performances had been honoured, helping to raise money for the Lucy Rayner Foundation, the Mayor’s nominated charity. A pop-up space in the Belfry centre is in use for other shows and events. The Leader thanked the Harlequin team for their hard work.
The Council continues to deliver good services and good work for the borough including:
· Approval for a trial of an electric bin lorry
· Plans to transition waste fleet vehicles to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil fuel
· Renewal of the Public Space Protection Order in Redhill
· A Housing Policy amendment which offers support to those residents interested in downsizing to help make better use of local housing stock
· The influence of The Rise, offering new facilities for residents and attracting new businesses to the area
Other highlights included:
· The Volunteer Awards had taken place in October 2023, recognising volunteers across the borough
· Free football coaching sessions set up for young people in Tadworth, which was showcased at Surrey Downs NHS ‘Pulling Together’ conference as an example of high quality community engagement
· The Council’s work with Mount Green Housing Association on Wheatley Court was shortlisted for the best partnership category in the 2023 Affordable Housing Awards
· The Business Awards took place in November, celebrating the vital role that local businesses of all sizes play in the local community.
Looking ahead, multiple projects are in progress including:
· The Sustainability Team are carrying out a light touch review of the Environmental Sustainability Strategy
· Engagement with residents and other stakeholders is taking place to inform development of the next Corporate Plan to cover 2025-30
· The Reigate and Banstead Sports Awards would be taking place
· Consultation on the A23 Great Street Design Code has concluded and has secured Department of Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities funding of £120k
· Plans are underway for the 50th anniversary of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council to include the appointment of Aldermen, Freemen and additional special awards.
The Leader invited Members to ask questions on his update. In response, the following clarifications were provided:
The Harlequin
Since RAAC had been discovered at the Harlequin and the theatre had been closed, the Council had remained on a waiting list for surveyors to carry out the necessary work to establish the extent of the problem. As the RAAC problem was nationwide, there was high demand for surveyors and no action could be taken to expedite the process. Members would be updated when more information was known. The Managing Director also reported that discussions were ongoing relating to liability for costs resulting from the RAAC issue.
The Leader confirmed that staff at the Harlequin were being redeployed and that their welfare was a primary concern.
A decision on where the annual pantomime might be held in 2024 would not be made until the report on costs relating to delivery of the pantomime in 2023 had been completed.
Redhill Infrastructure
The Leader confirmed that a strategic view over transport provision in Redhill was important and agreed to arrange a meeting with Redhill councillors and relevant Council officers as well as Surrey County Council members and officers to discuss the matter.
Riverside Garden Park, Horley
In response to a question about possible improvements to Riverside Garden Park in Horley, the Leader agreed to check on the ownership of the park and consider any improvements that might be necessary.
Environmental Sustainability Strategy Review
The Leader confirmed that the light touch review would provide a forum for bringing forward new ideas on environmental sustainability, but changes would be subject to costs and resources.
Gatwick Development Consent Order (DCO)
Following a request from the Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Leader would request a written update on the Council’s position regarding the Gatwick DCO.
The Chair thanked the Leader for his update.