Issue - meetings

The report of the Head of Economic Regeneration

The Head of Property and Economic Regeneration presented the report.

A member complimented the report and supported the use of Marlborough square again but noted some concerns in relation to the increased risk of incidents of cars being driven in to crowds at events. He asked to see risk assessments and the measures that would be put in place to mitigate the risks. He also sought assurances on how the numbers of people on the square at any one time would be limited.

The Head of Property and Economic Regeneration advised the members that hostile vehicle mitigation has been looked into for the square and the team had been in contact with Counter Terrorism officer at Leicestershire Police. It was also noted that the Health and Safety Officer had undertaken risk assessments and suggested measures to put in place based on assessment. He agreed to share the information outside of the meeting.

The Principal Economic Development Officer advised that the Emergency Planning group had been looking at Martin’s Law and that the traffic management company that was used for Ashby Statutes would be used for the Christmas Event.

In response to questions raised by a member in relation to the Christmas lights, the Principal Economic Development Officer advised that the lights were reused each year and were checked before being put in situ, and that the lights were only disposed of if they were beyond repair. She also agreed to make a breakdown of the total amount spent on the lights, including storage, repair and replacing, each year would be circulated outside of the meeting.

The Chairman thanked Members for their comments.