Issue - meetings

The Report of the Head of Human Resources.

Presented by the Deputy Leader.

The Deputy Leader presented the report and updated the meeting with information the progress made over the first two quarters in comparison the delivery plan. It was noted that continuing progress had been made in the Council’s key priority areas. The meeting was informed that observations made by the Corporate Scrutiny Committee would be picked up by officers, particularly with regards to delays in the housing repairs programme.

The Community Services Portfolio holder highlighted that the Newmarket now housed 17 new businesses and had again seen an increase in footfall. It was also noted that North West Leicestershire had one of the best leisure offerings in the country and that memberships had almost doubled since the start of the pandemic. The correlation between the increase in memberships and the benefits in promoting the health and wellbeing agenda was pointed out.

With regards to litter, it was noted that the Council is still committed to making NWL a cleaner and tidier district, and the good work of the local litter pickers, who had collected over 100,000 bags of litter was highlighted, as was the Council’s response in collecting this litter. In terms of dog fouling, it was felt that improving this situation would still require some work, however, the Council was committed to tackling the problem.

The Housing, Property and Customer Services Portfolio Holder highlighted the notable improvement in letting times and noted that the Council was very close to achieving its target of 28 days. The meeting was informed that the target for the production of new homes had been exceeded.

In terms of Customer Service, Cabinet was advised that telephone service had been the weakest point, but that the head of service would be taking steps to improve this going forward. Online contact had been very successful and had attained the targets set. The success of the new Customer Service Centre was highlighted and it was noted how busy it had been following the move to a more accessible location for local residents.

It was moved by Councillor R Ashman, seconded by Councillor R Blunt

RESOLVED THAT:

The progress against the Council Delivery Plan Actions and Performance Indicators for Quarters 1 and 2 of the financial year be noted.

Reason for decision: The report provides Members of the Cabinet with information on the performance and progress made against the Council Delivery Plan actions and performance indicators for Quarters 1 and 2 of the financial year (April to September 2022)