Agenda item

To receive the latest iteration of the 2024-25 E&E Select Committee Work Programme for comment and noting. The Chair will verbally highlight possible work programme items for 2025-26.

The Committee discussed the Work Programme.

During the discussion, the following topics were raised:

·       Waste and Recycling

It was proposed that the Committee would hold two meetings on waste and recycling to explore the service in-depth, including statutory changes, climate implications, and service efficiency.

It was proposed that Members undertake site visits to the Cavendish Road Depot and "ride-alongs" with collection crews to gain firsthand insight into operations.

The Assistant Director (Stevenage Direct Services) explained that at the first meeting, officers would provide a broad overview of the service. Members could then use this overview to identify specific areas for more in-depth scrutiny at the second meeting.

·       Climate Change Progress Update

It was proposed that the Committee would hold two meetings.

o   March 2024

o   November 2026.

·       Enforcement

Members suggested the Committee allocate a meeting to parking enforcement, especially in areas with planned double yellow lining, to ensure the measures are effectively implemented and enforced.

Members commented about inadequate enforcement against fly-tipping, with calls for stronger responses and follow-ups to reduce incidents and costs.

·       Garages

Some Members suggested a discussion on exploring the management of garages, a significant income source for the Council, including issues related to asbestos and service delivery. However, some Members questioned the necessity of this topic for scrutiny.

·       Street Scene

Members suggested they examine hedge trimming, street cleaning, and overall maintenance of the public realm, with concerns over visibility issues and general upkeep.

·       Cycling and Active Travel

Members discussed the need to revisit the 2019 cycling and pedestrian strategy in light of current needs and priorities. There were suggestions to incorporate colour-coded signage on cycleways and walkways to encourage active travel and make navigation easier and more engaging.

·       Transport Accessibility

Members suggested incorporating issues with car park availability, especially for disabled parking, and the negative impact on accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Problems with the lift at Stevenage Station were discussed, which was reportedly out of order 30 times in 2024, impacting travellers reliant on it. Suggestions included escalating the matter to portfolio holders and following up on parliamentary discussions on the subject.

·       Town Centre Regeneration

Members commented about the design and implementation of the regeneration project, including the integration of flats and shops, the loss of popular car parks, and the perceived inefficiency in the planning approach.

Members suggested the need for an updated progress report on the regeneration project, avoiding repetitive information from earlier stages, and focussed on the current status and future plans.

·       Accessibility in the Public Realm

Members proposed to address neurodiversity by creating autism-friendly spaces, better signposting, and quiet zones to support a less overwhelming shopping experience.

Members raised issues with covered walkways being repurposed by businesses, making them less accessible, and the general lack of cohesive design for accessibility in public areas.

Linking proposed items, Members suggested the Committee examine how regeneration efforts can improve accessibility in both the town centre and Old Town, ensuring inclusivity for all users.

The Chair suggested a holistic review of transportation, including cycling, pedestrian routes, and parking strategies, while addressing the impacts of reduced car parks and encouraging modal shifts to more sustainable options.

The Chair acknowledged the suggestions for future scrutiny topics and emphasised the need to ensure meaningful outcomes, with emphasis on issues affecting the public most directly.