Agenda item

(a)          The following Motion has been submitted in the name of Councillor Steve Ardagh-Walter:

“In our commitment to working towards being a Carbon Net Zero District by 2030 this Council has made a substantial investment in photovoltaic technology, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy.  In delivering this significant element of our Environment Strategy, we not only supply the Council with clean energy, we also reduce the cost of running our buildings.

However, the very large financial setup and running costs involved in selling locally generated renewable electricity to local customers result in it being very difficult, if not impossible, for local suppliers to do so.  We recognise that making these costs proportionate to the scale of the renewable electricity supplier’s operation would enable and empower new local businesses, or Councils such as West Berkshire, to be such providers of locally generated renewable electricity, and that the revenues received could be used to help improve the local economy, local services and facilities, and to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions.

The cross-party Local Electricity Bill, reintroduced into Parliament on 10 June and currently supported by 187 MPs, would, if made into law, establish a Right to Local Supply which would promote local renewable electricity supply companies and co-operatives by making the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local customers proportionate to the size of the supply operation.

This Council would therefore welcome the opportunity to benefit further from the creation of a Right to Local Supply and RESOLVES to support the Local Electricity Bill and to seek the support of our local MPs in ensuring the passage of the Bill through Parliament and into law.”

(b)          The following Motion has been submitted in the name of Councillor Joanne Stewart:

“West Berkshire Council stands firmly against all inequality, unlawful discrimination, harassment, victimisation or any other form of activity that creates disadvantages for individuals within the community. The council will always promote equality of opportunity, challenge inequality and ensure respect for everyone: within the local community; as an employer; and as a partner.

The Council forges strong links with all groups, both within West Berkshire and within other neighbouring authorities too. Through our Equality and Diversity Officer, we will continue to hear and listen to all voices, especially our hard to reach groups.

We will always promote fairness and accessibility to all services, as well as employment opportunities and apprenticeships and regardless of background.

As times and perspectives are evolving, it is even more important to reinforce our commitment to welcoming diversity and challenging inequality, and therefore this Council RESOLVES to:

·           Update and refresh our Equality and Diversity Policy and Objectives, as well as implement an Equality and Diversity Strategy to lead us and our residents through these challenging times.

·           As part of that Strategy we will ensure Council employees and Members continue to be fully informed and updated through regular Equality and Diversity training to promote positive and inclusive attitudes.

·           Through the Health and Wellbeing Board we will work with local partners and review guidance issued by Public Health, to offer support for those at greatest risk of the impact of Covid-19.”

(c)          The following Motion has been submitted in the name of Councillor David Marsh:

“This Council notes the success of the 24-hour traffic-free zone covering part of Newbury town centre.

It made social distancing easier and was popular with shoppers. It helped to promote active travel, in line with the Prime Minister’s announcement on 28 July, which included a commitment to “improving air quality and reducing traffic” by introducing zero-emission zones in towns and cities, and with the Council’s own recently published Environment Strategy, which stresses the importance of reducing vehicle emissions.

This council further notes that the threat posed by Covid-19, and the need for social distancing, remain, and are likely to do so for the foreseeable future. It therefore regards the decision to return to “business as usual”, taken without allowing Council members to debate the issue, or even informing them of the decision, and without consulting Newbury Town Council, as premature at best.

This council further notes the following statement by Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport: “We’ve got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a shift in attitudes for generations to come.”

Allowing people to enjoy the town centre free of all but essential traffic is good for their health and wellbeing, and good for business. It conforms to the Council’s own aims with regard to carbon emissions, road safety, and creating a more attractive town centre for both residents and visitors. It is a win-win for the people of West Berkshire.

This Council therefore RESOLVES that:

(a)  The 24-hour traffic-free zone, with appropriate exemptions for deliveries and disabled access, be reinstated with immediate effect.

(b)  Officers will monitor the effect on social distancing, businesses (including the market), air quality and active travel, and report their findings to the Transport Advisory Group and Environment Advisory Group by the end of 2020.

(c)  Following this process, any recommendations as to making the traffic-free zone permanent or otherwise would be considered by the first full Council meeting of 2021.”

(d)     The following Motion has been submitted in the name of Councillor Richard Somner:

“In consideration of the rural nature of the area we share, and communications received by both residents and animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, this council recognises the need to take action on the increasing concern of firework use across our District.

As a Council we have historically acted on the need to set appropriate licensing fees for fireworks and the need to restrict the areas in which sky lanterns can be used, this motion sets to add to those actions and to develop a safer environment for residents, their pets and the numerous livestock and wildlife in West Berkshire.

Whilst we recognise that fireworks are used throughout the year, and when used sensibly can be enjoyed by many, we approach a time of year when their use will see a dramatic increase.

The very nature of Fireworks as explosives are that they make loud and high intensity noises that are unpredictable and can affect a wide area.

As with sky lanterns, once reaching the ground the resultant debris can also pose a hazard to animals, such as horses and farm livestock.

We recognise that some people may not be aware of the anxiety or danger that may be created, and so there is a need to raise awareness generally including amongst owners of animals.

The short lived nature of firework noise can make it difficult for the police or local authority officers to pinpoint locations and take action.

This Council resolves:

•     to require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people

•     to actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks

•     to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays

•    to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.”

(Councillors Carolyne Culver, David Marsh, Graham Bridgman, Lynne Doherty, Tony Vickers and Martha Vickers declared a personal interest in Agenda item 16(a) by virtue of the fact that they had invested in the Council’s Abundance Bond. As their interest was personal and not a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest they determined to remain in the meeting and take part in the discussion on this item.

 

Councillor Tom Marino declared a personal interest in Agenda Item (16(a) by virtue of the fact that he was employed by Alok Sharma MP, who was the Secretary of State for Business and Energy. As his interest was personal and not a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest he determined to remain in the meeting and take part in the discussion on this item.)

 

The Council considered the under-mentioned Motion (Agenda item 16(a) refers) submitted in the name of Councillor Steve Ardagh-Walter relating to locally generated renewable energy. It was noted that Councillor Adrian Abbs would however  be proposing the motion.

The Chairman informed the Council that in accordance with Procedural Rule 4.9.8 the motion, if seconded, would be referred to the Environment Advisory Group for consideration prior to a report being submitted to the Executive. The outcome of that discussion would in turn be reported back to full Council.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Adrian Abbs and seconded by Councillor Steve Ardagh0Walter:

That the Council:

“In our commitment to working towards being a Carbon Net Zero District by 2030 this Council has made a substantial investment in photovoltaic technology, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy.  In delivering this significant element of our Environment Strategy, we not only supply the Council with clean energy, we also reduce the cost of running our buildings.

 

However, the very large financial setup and running costs involved in selling locally generated renewable electricity to local customers result in it being very difficult, if not impossible, for local suppliers to do so.  We recognise that making these costs proportionate to the scale of the renewable electricity supplier’s operation would enable and empower new local businesses, or Councils such as West Berkshire, to be such providers of locally generated renewable electricity, and that the revenues received could be used to help improve the local economy, local services and facilities, and to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions.

 

The cross-party Local Electricity Bill, reintroduced into Parliament on 10 June and currently supported by 187 MPs, would, if made into law, establish a Right to Local Supply which would promote local renewable electricity supply companies and co-operatives by making the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local customers proportionate to the size of the supply operation.

 

This Council would therefore welcome the opportunity to benefit further from the creation of a Right to Local Supply and RESOLVES to support the Local Electricity Bill and to seek the support of our local MPs in ensuring the passage of the Bill through Parliament and into law.”

 

The Council considered the under-mentioned Motion (Agenda item 16(b) refers) submitted in the name of Councillor Joanne Stewart relating to the Equalities and Diversity Strategy and Policy.

The Chairman informed the Council that under Procedural Rule 4.9.8 the motion, if seconded, would be debated at the meeting.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Joanne Stewart and seconded by Councillor Lynne Doherty:

That the Council:

“West Berkshire Council stands firmly against all inequality, unlawful discrimination, harassment, victimisation or any other form of activity that creates disadvantages for individuals within the community. The Council will always promote equality of opportunity, challenge inequality and ensure respect for everyone: within the local community; as an employer; and as a partner.

The Council forges strong links with all groups, both within West Berkshire and within other neighbouring authorities too. Through our Equality and Diversity Officer, we will continue to hear and listen to all voices, especially our hard to reach groups.

We will always promote fairness and accessibility to all services, as well as employment opportunities and apprenticeships and regardless of background.

As times and perspectives are evolving, it is even more important to reinforce our commitment to welcoming diversity and challenging inequality, and therefore this Council RESOLVES to:

·           Update and refresh our Equality and Diversity Policy and Objectives, as well as implement an Equality and Diversity Strategy to lead us and our residents through these challenging times.

·           As part of that Strategy we will ensure Council employees and Members continue to be fully informed and updated through regular Equality and Diversity training to promote positive and inclusive attitudes.

·           Through the Health and Wellbeing Board we will work with local partners and review guidance issued by Public Health, to offer support for those at greatest risk of the impact of Covid-19.”

In proposing the Motion Councillor Stewart requested that the final bullet point be amended as follows and this was seconded by Councillor Doherty:

·           “Through The Health and Wellbeing Board be asked to we will work with local partners and review guidance issued by Public Health, to offer support for those at greatest risk of the impact of Covid-19.”

 

The Motion was put to the vote and declared CARRIED.

The Council considered the under-mentioned Motion (Agenda item 16(c) refers) submitted in the name of Councillor David Marsh relating to extending the 24 hour traffic free zone in Newbury Town Centre.

The Chairman informed the Council that in accordance with Procedural Rule 4.9.8 the motion, if seconded, would be referred to the Transport Advisory Group for consideration prior to a report being submitted to the Executive. The outcome of that discussion would in turn be reported back to full Council.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor David Marsh and seconded by Councillor Tony Vickers:

That the Council:

“notes the success of the 24-hour traffic-free zone covering part of Newbury town centre.

It made social distancing easier and was popular with shoppers. It helped to promote active travel, in line with the Prime Minister’s announcement on 28 July, which included a commitment to “improving air quality and reducing traffic” by introducing zero-emission zones in towns and cities, and with the Council’s own recently published Environment Strategy, which stresses the importance of reducing vehicle emissions.

This Council further notes that the threat posed by Covid-19, and the need for social distancing, remain, and are likely to do so for the foreseeable future. It therefore regards the decision to return to “business as usual”, taken without allowing Council members to debate the issue, or even informing them of the decision, and without consulting Newbury Town Council, as premature at best.

This Council further notes the following statement by Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport: “We’ve got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a shift in attitudes for generations to come.”

Allowing people to enjoy the town centre free of all but essential traffic is good for their health and wellbeing, and good for business. It conforms to the Council’s own aims with regard to carbon emissions, road safety, and creating a more attractive town centre for both residents and visitors. It is a win-win for the people of West Berkshire.

This Council therefore RESOLVES that:

(a)  The 24-hour traffic-free zone, with appropriate exemptions for deliveries and disabled access, be reinstated with immediate effect.

(b)  Officers will monitor the effect on social distancing, businesses (including the market), air quality and active travel, and report their findings to the Transport Advisory Group and Environment Advisory Group by the end of 2020.

(c)  Following this process, any recommendations as to making the traffic-free zone permanent or otherwise would be considered by the first full Council meeting of 2021.”

The Council considered the under-mentioned Motion (Agenda item 16(d) refers) submitted in the name of Councillor Richard Somner relating to fireworks.

The Chairman informed the Council that in accordance with Procedural Rule 4.9.8 the motion, if seconded, would be referred to the Licensing Committee for consideration prior to a report being submitted to full Council.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Richard Somner and seconded by Councillor Jeff Brooks:

That the Council:

“In consideration of the rural nature of the area we share, and communications received by both residents and animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, recognises the need to take action on the increasing concern of firework use across our District.

As a Council we have historically acted on the need to set appropriate licensing fees for fireworks and the need to restrict the areas in which sky lanterns can be used, this motion sets to add to those actions and to develop a safer environment for residents, their pets and the numerous livestock and wildlife in West Berkshire.

Whilst we recognise that fireworks are used throughout the year, and when used sensibly can be enjoyed by many, we approach a time of year when their use will see a dramatic increase.

The very nature of Fireworks as explosives are that they make loud and high intensity noises that are unpredictable and can affect a wide area.

As with sky lanterns, once reaching the ground the resultant debris can also pose a hazard to animals, such as horses and farm livestock.

We recognise that some people may not be aware of the anxiety or danger that may be created, and so there is a need to raise awareness generally including amongst owners of animals.

The short lived nature of firework noise can make it difficult for the police or local authority officers to pinpoint locations and take action.

This Council resolves:

•        to require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people

•        to actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks

•        to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays

•       to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.”

The Council considered the under-mentioned Motion (which was an urgent item) submitted in the name of Councillor Lynne Doherty relating to public engagement in remote Council meetings.

The Chairman informed the Council that In accordance with paragraph 4.9.4 (Urgent Motion) he had consented, as he believed that it was right and proper that the current arrangements be reviewed, that the motion be considered at this Council meeting as urgent agenda item.

The Chairman reported that in accordance with Rule 4.16.1 [Six Months Rule] the Motion has been signed by at least one quarter of the Members of Council. (Councillors: Lynne Doherty, Graham Bridgman, Howard Woollaston, Hilary Cole, Ross Mackinnon, Richard Somner, Jo Stewart, Steve Ardagh-Walter, Dominic Boeck, Alan Law and James Cole.)

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Lynne Doherty and seconded by Councillor Lee Dillon:

That the Council:

“RESOLVES that, with effect from 1 October 2020:

1      Its Resolution of 29 April 2020 in relation to Remote Council Meetings is rescinded.

2      The following changes to the Constitution are approved insofar as they apply to Remote Council Meetings (“Remote Meetings”) only:

a)    Any right given to a member of the public by the Constitution to make a submission to any Council meeting shall not apply to Remote Meetings.  This right will be replaced with the ability to make written submissions.

b)    Written submissions that replace the right of a member of the public to speak for up to five minutes shall be limited to a written submission of no more than 500 words.  (This limit shall be applied pro rata to any different time limit detailed within the Constitution.)  Written submissions must be submitted to the Council by no later than midday, two working days before the meeting.

c)     Where practicable, written submissions made as an alternative to a previous right to address a Committee will be read aloud at the Remote Meeting.  Where multiple parties make written submissions, these will all be made available to the Members of the Committee, but it will not be appropriate to read all aloud.  In such circumstances, an officer will provide a verbal summary for the Remote Meeting of the issues raised.

d)    Where a member of the public has made a written submission they will be invited to attend the Remote Meeting to answer any questions that Members of the Committee might wish to ask in relation to their submission (but questions may only be asked to clarify a statement made and not to introduce new business).  If members of the public attend as invited they will be in the Remote Meeting with a right to speak for only so long as they are receiving and answering such a question or questions.

e)    Where a member of the public has submitted a written question to a Council meeting they will be invited to attend the Remote Meeting to hear the answer to their question and to ask any supplementary question they might wish (in accordance with the Constitution).  If they attend as invited they will be treated as being in the Remote Meeting with a right to speak for only so long as they are asking and receiving the answer to such a question or questions.

f)      The requirement for any questioner to say (eg) “I ask my question as set out in the Summons” is replaced by a requirement for the Chairman of the meeting to refer to the question and invite the Member responding to answer.

g)    Nothing in this Resolution affects the ability of the Chairman of the meeting to determine how a question shall be answered as set out in the Constitution (eg at 4.12.5).

h)    Members of the public will have no right to present a Petition in person during a Remote Meeting.

3      Any statutory right for a person other than a Member or Officer of the Council to attend, and/or speak at, and/or raise verbal questions at, a Remote Meeting shall not be affected by this Resolution.

4      The Monitoring Officer is authorised to publish a statement setting out the effect of this Resolution in the Constitution and in any other place considered necessary to bring it to the attention of anyone affected as she deems fit, and to publish any Protocol or Guidance to assist Members and others in the way in which the Council conducts Remote Meetings.”

The Motion was put to the vote and declared CARRIED.