Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report which updates Cabinet on the progress made in delivering the Corporate Strategy 2023-27 and the Council’s performance in 2023-24.

Cllr Dave Wood introduced the report, moved the officer recommendation and made the following statement:

“It's hard to know where to start given the sheer quantity of achievements delivered by our hard-working officers over the last year.

Amongst our achievements are:

• Opening of the new Pixash Waste recycling facility in Keynsham.
• Being shortlisted by the Local Government Chronical Awards as most Improved Council.
• Bringing social care back in house with no services disruption.
• Agreeing an ambitious new Economic Strategy prioritising green growth, good jobs and affordable housing.
• 15km roads resurfaced and 7,000 potholes filled.
• Support for hundreds of refugees.
• Progressing regeneration in Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and Radstock.
• Renewables are up, emissions per house are down, air quality improved, tree planting is up.

This is a testament to the hard work of officers, councillors, and the vision of the Liberal Democrat administration.”

Cllr Manda Rigby seconded the motion.  She highlighted the achievements of the Highways Team who have received national and regional recognition.  The Bath park and ride schemes were ranked second best in the country for customer satisfaction.  The Council’s Highway Maintenance was ranked best in the South West in a national independent survey which analysed results from 111 authorities across England.  She went on to give further examples of the team’s achievements including high numbers of pothole repairs, resurfacing work, drainage improvements and upgrades to Pay and Display machines.

Cllr Sarah Warren highlighted the improvements that have been made in relation to the area’s climate and ecological performance indicators.  There has been a reduction in overall carbon emissions for the district and increased renewables capacity.  Cllr Warren congratulated the air quality and Clean Air Zone teams for the reduction we are seeing in air quality measurement sites breaching the new local target.  There is a steadily improving picture in terms of air quality, both in the city and outside.

Cllr Warren thanked the Strategic Transport and Highways Teams who work alongside the West of England Combined Authority to roll out innovations such as the liveable neighbourhood schemes and e-scooter trial.  There remains a long way to go to achieve net zero and it is important to continue and to redouble our efforts across all areas of work.

Cllr Matt McCabe thanked the award-winning Planning Team, the Housing Team and the Community Equipment Team for their hard work.

Cllr Paul May pointed out the huge growth in the number of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) due to increased demand.

Cllr Alison Born thanked the Adult Social Care Team for their partnership working enable people to return home from hospital as quickly as possible to reduce pressure on hospital beds.

Cllr Mark Elliott highlighted the work of the Corporate Services staff, for example, those working in IT and Finance, and commended their work to provide these services for the Council.

Cllr Kevin Guy stated that performance improvements are made easier by the excellent staff and Cabinet Members in B&NES Council and thanked everyone for their hard work.

RESOLVED (unanimously):  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14