Agenda item

1.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR TRIMNELL

 

“This council notes the two conifer trees over 50+ years on the corner of St Mary’s Street and the controversy over imminent felling of one of them. 

 

This council notes the boundary wall to Kings School nearby is unstable due to the tree, but that most of the wall came down in February last year. 

 

The council notes that to rebuild the wall in the same place would invalidate the council's insurance, but to relocate and erect an alternative boundary structure may not. 

This council believes a compromise needs to be found with Kings School for the said tree to remain in situ and for an alternative measure of boundary security to be found.”

 

2.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

Matson, Podsmead and Coney Hill have a large proportion of families on low income and many without vehicles. Therefore the use of the city council landfill is not possible. 

This council requests that families and individuals on Universal Credit are included in the reduced fee for bulky item waste collection.

At present not all benefit users are able to use the discounted rate.

I therefore request that all members support this motion to ensure that families and individuals on universal credit have the opportunity to use this discounted collection rate.

Discounted rates for universal credit will
help reduce those struggling to dispose of waste legally due to no funds
available in a cost of living crisis and will undoubtedly reduce illegal fly
tipping.”



 



3.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS



 



“The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us clearly
that the Internet is no longer a luxury, a convenient enhancement for
lifestyles for those who can afford it. Rather, Internet access has become a
basic necessity.



 







During the lockdown, it
has become vital for everyday activities. It often is the only way we can
contact and care for close friends and family. In some instances, it even has
become the only way to say
goodbye to loved ones quarantined in hospital. Yet, online access is also
necessary during non-emergencies for fair opportunities to work, study, to
engage with government, and to exercise our political freedoms. We thus have
weighty reasons to accept a right to Internet access. If we doubted this
before, few will doubt this now. 









 



This council notes that WiFi
internet access is a basic need and not a luxury. Therefore this motion is to
provide FREE fast access WiFi for all Gloucester city
residents on every City Council ward. 



 



Free WiFi
will be provided to all areas of the Gloucester city by 2026.”



 



4.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS



 



Pump Tracks offer a fun, safe space for all
ages and abilities to enjoy a range of wheel based activities including
BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades.



 



The proposed Coney Hill Pump Track will be a
much-used and valued asset by its community and we're keen to work with
partners to help more areas such as Saintbridge/
Matson/ White City and Robinswood enjoy these same benefits. 



 



What is a Pump Track?



So what is a pump track? A pump track is
designed to create a safe, fun and inclusive playground for all wheels-based
users regardless of age or gender.



 



They provide a playground for kids and adults
from beginners to professionals, and a sustainable and fun-packed activity for
everyone in the community.



 



Their design combines rolling jumps with turns
that teach the basic skills of carrying momentum, balance and speed by using
your arms and legs to pump your bike/ skateboard/ scooter around the track….



 



‘A Moment to Learn, a Lifetime to Master’.



 



Community benefits



Pump Tracks not only offer a space to
exercise and improve skills, such as balance and coordination, they also
provide a community focal point. Coney Hill Pump Track will become a key
feature of the community, with regular meet-ups, litter picks and events.



 



A planned track at Coney Hill park next to the
pond will create a Hub in the area for those walking and cycling, with rest
stops and community events. A Coney Hill Community Pump Track group hopes to be
situated alongside environmental and nature-based projects while a Track.



 



Support



This Council notes that children and adult well being, fitness and mental health is priority.
Therefore this council will allocate an area of City Council land at Coney Hill
park off Metz Way by Stanway Road and Boughton Way for the construction of a
Pump track.



 



This location is far enough away from houses
and homes to ensure no associated ASB will be generated.



 



It’s an ideal location for a pump track.



 



This Gloucester City council will work with
City Council Planning department, Gloucestershire County Councillor for the
ward as well as NHS and city Council Cil & S106
budgets to ensure that this pump track will be built and operational before
April 2026



 



This is a great motion helping
keep children off the streets, build community’s, support mental health and well being and promote health equalities to one of the
County Councils most deprived areas and one the top
10 most deprived areas in England. Please support.”



 



5.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS



 



“Gloucester City Council created a
set of rules and regulations on the 1st August 2014 for the Coney Hill Cemetery
and Crematorium.



 



Following
complaints from hundreds of families about their child’s, brothers, mothers
fathers, & grandparents graves vases/ personal possessions and borders being
removed by the council as they don’t fit into the councils ridged set of rules
and regulations has caused much hurt and upset around the families who manage
their beloved members final resting place.  



 



Some
personal possessions, gifts, pictures, lights and borders have been removed
from the graves over night without the families being made aware. I am sure
council letters in some cases may have been sent. However this does not help
the situation when your beloved family’s members picture/ gift or toy has been
removed because it was an inch too big.



 



This
council notes that the rigid cemetery and crematorium rules needs reviewing
urgently as currently there are many families who have been given a deadline by
the council which have threatened to remove personal items from their beloved
ones final resting places. 



 



Graves
and resting areas of loved ones should be a place of peace for family members.
A place to visit loved ones and feel close. A place of sanctuary where family
members are able to make the resting places bespoke to their past family
member, a resting place of a beloved family member should have the option to be
able to use colours that they liked, as well as pictures and ornaments. The
current rules and regulations are too specific and too rigid. 



 



There
are fixed rules for set edgings, many families can not
afford to buy solid granite sets for edgings and they have used an alternative
to mark out their family members resting place. As a result the Council have
removed these edgings and the gravel infill leaving the resting place bare and
empty. A further 12 letters have been sent by the City council to family
members to advise they will have items removed from their loved ones graves if
they do not follow the strict council rules.



 



The
council cemetery and crematorium rules need to be reviewed and current family
members/users consulted as well as a City wide consultation to reach a fair
balance of new rules and regulations which will include a more modern, flexible
approach to these final resting places. This council will also postpone any
grave / resting place removal till these new rules and regulations have been
consulted on, therefore protecting the 12 current graves which are set to be
dismantled by Gloucester City Council.



 



I
therefore ask City Council to support this motion to review the current rules
and regulations, while working with family members that maintain the resting
places to reach a fair & flexible outcome. The consultation must be
conducted within a maximum 8 weeks from this council motion and the new
cemetery and crematorium rules and regulations will be in action before the 1st
May 2024. The graves under threat of dismantle/ removal of edgings and toys etc
will be postponed till the new rules and regulations are created as some of
these edgings and toys would fit in the new modern rules approach.”



 



6.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR O’DONNELL



 



“This
council notes that there are 20 plus rough sleepers each night in and around
our Gloucester City Streets. 



 



After
speaking to other organisations who want to remain confidential at this point
they have advised that the current system is not fit for purpose.



 



Rough
sleepers who do not own mobile phone devices are unable to receive help as they
are missed off the system if they move at the point when the out reach team visit.



 



This
city council owes the rough sleepers a duty of care and protection. Currently
there have been numerous incidents of rough sleepers tents and bedding being
set on fire.



 



Not
only that there are many rough sleepers who have mental health conditions and
also pose a risk to the general public and themselves with several incidents
occurring recently. 



 



There
are also more worryingly British military veterans that have served our country
sleeping rough with no help or assistance. 



 



Temporary
hotel places for rough sleepers and ex British military veterans are becoming
increasing harder to obtain due to the fact over 2 large Hotels in our city are
full to the brim of small boat economic illegal immigrants. These economic
immigrants are predominately male of working age. This therefore has left
British ex military veterans and nationals out in the
cold.



 



Moreover,
the city’s missions night shelter has closed this year meaning many U.K.
nationals will be left out in the frost and snow over our harsh winter.



 



This
council notes that a solution is urgently required to safe guarding our cities
rough sleepers and make our city overall a safer place.



 



This
motion is for the City Council to find an empty building within the city and
form a night shelter within 14 days of this motion with a capacity of 100
people.



 



This
will then enable a safe space and shelter for the rough sleepers and any
families that find themselves homeless this Christmas.



 



This
night shelter must remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a
year.



 



The
saving of housing people in the temporary night shelter will ensure that the
City Council save enormous costs charged by hotels.”



 



7.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR WILSON



 



“At the September meeting of Full Council the non
availability of audited accounts for Gloucester City Council for the
financial years of 2022/22 and 2022/23 was debated. During the course of the
debate it was explained that this was partly
due to a crisis in local government auditing that was also affecting other councils in the country.



 



Openness and transparency are nonetheless important, especially in
these times of great financial uncertainty.



 



Council notes that Gloucestershire County Council, Cheltenham
Borough Council, Tewkesbury Borough
Council, Stroud District Council and The Forest of Dean District Council have
all published draft (unaudited) accounts for
2022/23.



 



Council therefore requires Gloucester City Council to adopt this
practice and ensure that fully audited
accounts for 2021/22 and draft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23 are
published on the council’s website by January 2024.”



 



8.   
PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR PATEL



 

We not only condemn those atrocities, but also the current campaign of bombings (over 10,000 bombs so far) by Israel on residential towers, schools, hospitals, ambulances and refugee camps killing and injuring thousands of innocent Palestinian people. Since 7th October, approximately 10,000 Palestinians have died (40% of those were children) and over 1,400 Israeli’s in this latest conflict. 

We call on the council leader to write to the MP Richard Graham and PM Rishi Sunak urging Israel to immediately stop the bombings and collective punishment against 2 million Palestinian people, and also call on Hamas to free the innocent kidnapped Israeli citizens back to Israel. We also support a call for a ceasefire by both IDF and Hamas.

A blockade preventing access to the most basic human necessities such as food, water, electricity, medical supplies etc is also classed as a war crime under International Law. 

This council agrees with the world that Hamas are terrorists and that they don’t represent the Palestinian people, and furthermore acknowledges that Israel’s fight is with Hamas, not the Palestinian people. 

We therefore call on the British Government and all its allies to listen to us and the world, and request an immediate end to the siege and the constant bombardment of Gaza.

We also call on the Home Secretary to cease her unacceptable attempts to suppress the democratic rights of the British people to peaceful protests.

This council prays for peace not only in Israel/Palestine, but all over the world and we condemn all forms of hate crimes such as Antisemitism, Islamophobia etc.”

53.1    Councillor Trimnell proposed and Councillor Hilton seconded the following motion:

 

“This council notes the two conifer trees over 50+ years on the corner of St Mary’s Street and the controversy over imminent felling of one of them.? 

 

This council notes the boundary wall to Kings School nearby is unstable due to the tree, but that most of the wall came down in February last year.? 

 

The council notes that to rebuild the wall in the same place would invalidate the council's insurance, but to relocate and erect an alternative boundary structure may not.? 

 
This council believes a compromise needs to be found with Kings School for the said tree to remain in situ and for an alternative measure of boundary security to be found.” 

 

53.2    The motion was put to the vote and was lost.

 

53.3    Councillor A. Chambers proposed and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following motion:

 

“This council notes that bulk item waste disposal for families and individuals on low income is disproportionate to their household revenue. 

 

Matson, and Coney Hill have a large proportion of families on low income and many without vehicles. the use of the city council landfill is not possible.  

 

This council requests that families and individuals on Universal Credit are included in the reduced fee for bulky item waste collection. 

 

At present not all benefit users are able to use the discounted rate. 

 

I therefore request that all members support this motion to ensure that families and individuals on universal credit use this discounted collection rate. 

 

Discounted rates for universal credit will help reduce those struggling to dispose of waste legally due to no funds available in a crisis and will undoubtedly reduce illegal fly tipping.” 

 

53.4    The motion was put to a recorded vote. The votes were as follows:

 

         

COUNCILLOR	FOR	AGAINST	ABSTAINING
Williams		Y
Hudson		Y
Cook		Y
Norman		Y
Chambers S.		Y
Lewis		Y
Padilla		Y
Hilton	Y
Gravells		Y
Tracey		Y
Morgan		Y
Wilson	Y
Bhaimia	Y
Brown D	Y
Taylor		Y
Field	Y
Patel		Y
Toleman		Y
Brown J.	Y
Hyman	Y
Bowkett	Y
Ackroyd		Y
Castle	Y
Chambers A.	Y
Chambers-Dubus	Y
Conder	Y
Dee		Y
Durdey		Y
Evans		Y
Kubaszczyk		Y
O’Donnell	Y
Radley	Y
Zaman		Y
Sawyer	Y
Campbell		Y
Trimnell	Y
Total	16	20	0

 

The vote was therefore lost.

 

53.4    Councillor A. Chambers proposed and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following motion:

 

“The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us clearly that the Internet is no longer a luxury, a convenient enhancement for lifestyles for those who can afford it. Rather, Internet access has become a basic necessity. 

 

During the lockdown, it has become vital for everyday activities. It often is the only way we can contact and care for close friends and family. In some instances, it even has become the only way to?say goodbye to loved ones quarantined in hospital. Yet, online access is also necessary during non-emergencies for fair opportunities to work, study, to engage with government, and to exercise our political freedoms. We thus have weighty reasons to accept a right to Internet access. If we doubted this before, few doubt this now.? 

 

This council notes that WiFi internet access is a basic need and not a luxury. this motion is to provide FREE fast access for all Gloucester city residents on every City Council ward.? 

 

Free WiFi will be provided to all areas of the Gloucester city by 2026.” 

 

53.5    Councillor Radley proposed and Councillor Wilson seconded the following amendment

 

“The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us clearly that the Internet is no longer a luxury, a convenient enhancement for lifestyles for those who can afford it. Rather, Internet access has become a basic necessity, and can be viewed as a utility such as water or power. 

 

During the lockdown, it has become vital for everyday activities. It often is the only way we can contact and care for close friends and family. In some instances, it even has become the only way to?say goodbye to loved ones quarantined in hospital. Yet, online access is also necessary during non-emergencies for fair opportunities to work, study, to engage with government, and to exercise our political freedoms. We thus have weighty reasons to accept a right to Internet accessdigital equality. If we doubted this before, few doubt this now.? 

 

This council notes that WiFi internet accessdigital equality is a basic need and not a luxury. this motion is to provide FREE fast access for all Gloucester city residents on every City Council ward.? 

 

Free will be provided to all areas of the Gloucester city by 2026. 

 

·         Request officers explore partnering with the DAISI?(Digital Accessibility, Inclusion, Support and Innovation)?project hosted by GRCC: leveraging their expertise in digital equity initiatives and?existing resources. 

·         Officers review support to help residents on lower incomes to access social tariffs for broadband and mobile phone access and make recommendations for improvement.? 

·         Officers review Gloucester City’s Website and report back regarding its accessibility. ? 

 

We ask that the?Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods responds with a cabinet report within 6 months of this meeting.” 

 

53.6    The amendment was accepted by the mover of the motion and therefore became the substantive motion. This was put to the vote and was carried.

 

53.7    RESOLVED that: - The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us clearly that the Internet is no longer a luxury, a convenient enhancement for lifestyles for those who can afford it. Rather, Internet access has become a basic necessity, and can be viewed as a utility such as water or power. 

 

During the lockdown, it has become vital for everyday activities. It often is the only way we can contact and care for close friends and family. In some instances, it even has become the only way to?say goodbye to loved ones quarantined in hospital. Yet, online access is also necessary during non-emergencies for fair opportunities to work, study, to engage with government, and to exercise our political freedoms. We thus have weighty reasons to accept a right to digital equality. If we doubted this before, few doubt this now.? 

 

This council notes that digital equalityis a basic need and not a luxury. this motion is to

 

·         Request officers explore partnering with the DAISI?(Digital Accessibility, Inclusion, Support and Innovation)?project hosted by GRCC: leveraging their expertise in digital equity initiatives and?existing resources. 

 

·         Officers review support to help residents on lower incomes to access social tariffs for broadband and mobile phone access and make recommendations for improvement.? 

 

·         Officers review Gloucester City’s Website and report back regarding its accessibility. ? 

 

We ask that the?Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods responds with a cabinet report within 6 months of this meeting.

 

53.8    Councillor A. Chambers proposed and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following motion:

 

          Pump Tracks offer a fun, safe space for all ages and abilities to enjoy a range of wheel based activities including BMX?bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades. 

          The proposed Coney Hill Pump Track will be a much-used and valued asset by its community and we're keen to work with partners to help more areas such as Saintbridge/ Matson/ White City and Robinswood enjoy these same benefits.? 

          What is a Pump Track? 

So what is a pump track? A pump track is designed to create a safe, fun and inclusive playground for all wheels-based users regardless of age or gender. 

          They provide a playground for kids and adults from beginners to professionals, and a sustainable and fun-packed activity for everyone in the community. 

          Their design combines rolling jumps with turns that teach the basic skills of carrying momentum, balance and speed by using your arms and legs to pump your bike/ skateboard/ scooter around the track…. 

‘A Moment to Learn, a Lifetime to Master’.

Community benefits 

Pump Tracks?not only offer a space to exercise and improve skills, such as balance and coordination, they also provide a community focal point. Coney Hill Pump Track will become a key feature of the community, with regular meet-ups, litter picks and events. 

A planned track at Coney Hill park next to the pond will create a Hub in the area for those walking and cycling, with rest stops and community events. A Coney Hill Community Pump Track group hopes to be situated alongside environmental and nature-based projects while a Track. 

Support 

This Council notes that children and adult well being, fitness and mental health is priority. Therefore this council will allocate an area of City Council land at Coney Hill park off Metz Way by Stanway Road and Boughton Way for the construction of a Pump track. 

          This location is far enough away from houses and homes to ensure no associated ASB will be generated. 

          It’s an ideal location for a pump track. 

          This Gloucester City council will work with City Council Planning department, Gloucestershire County Councillor for the ward as well as NHS and city Council Cil & S106 budgets to ensure that this pump track will be built and operational before April 2026 

          This is a great motion helping keep children off the streets, build community’s, support mental health and well being and promote health equalities to one of the County Councils most deprived areas and one the top 10 most deprived areas in England. Please support.” 

53.9    Councillor Cook proposed and Councillor Lewis seconded the following amendment:

“Pump Tracks offer a fun, safe space for all ages and abilities to enjoy a range of wheel based activities including BMX?bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades. 

 

The proposed Coney Hill Pump Track will be a we're keen to work with partners to help more areas such as Saintbridge/ Matson/ White City and enjoy these same benefits.? 

 

What is a Pump Track? 

 

So what is a pump track? A pump track is designed to create a safe, fun and inclusive playground for all wheels-based users regardless of age or gender. 

 

They provide a playground for kids and adults from beginners to professionals, and a sustainable and fun-packed activity for everyone in the community. 

 

Their design combines rolling jumps with turns that teach the basic skills of carrying momentum, balance and speed by using your arms and legs to pump your bike/ skateboard/ scooter around the track…. 

 

‘A Moment to Learn, a Lifetime to Master’. 

 

Community benefits 

 

Pump Tracks?not only offer a space to exercise and improve skills, such as balance and coordination, they also provide a community focal point. Coney Hill Pump Track will become a key feature of the community, with regular , litter picks and events. 

 

A planned track at  

 

Support 

 

This Council notes that children and adult , fitness and mental health is priority. this council will allocate an area of City Council land at off Metz Way by Stanway Road and Boughton Way for the construction of a Pump track. 

 

This location is far enough away from houses and homes to ensure no associated ASB will be generated. 

 

It’s an ideal location for a pump track. 

 

This Gloucester City council will work with City Council Planning department, Gloucestershire County Councillor for the ward as well as NHS and city Council Cil & S106 budgets to ensure that this pump track will be built and operational before April 2026 This Council notes that this request is not on the Council Forward Plan and there is at present no funding to invest in it, however the Council will establish a group includingall our partners to develop plans, consult the local community and look for funding to enable delivery of the project in the fullness of time. 

 

This is a great motion helping keep children off the streets, build community’s, support mental health and and promote health equalities to one of the County Councils most deprived areas and the top 10 most deprived areas in England. Please support  

 

53.10   The amendment was accepted by the mover of the original motion and therefore became the substantive motion.

 

53.11  RESOLVED that:-

 

“Pump Tracks offer a fun, safe space for all ages and abilities to enjoy a range of wheel based activities including BMX?bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades. 

 

The proposed Coney Hill Pump Track will be a we're keen to work with partners to help more areas such as Saintbridge/ Matson/ White City and enjoy these same benefits.? 

 

What is a Pump Track? 

 

So what is a pump track? A pump track is designed to create a safe, fun and inclusive playground for all wheels-based users regardless of age or gender. 

 

They provide a playground for kids and adults from beginners to professionals, and a sustainable and fun-packed activity for everyone in the community. 

 

Their design combines rolling jumps with turns that teach the basic skills of carrying momentum, balance and speed by using your arms and legs to pump your bike/ skateboard/ scooter around the track…. 

 

‘A Moment to Learn, a Lifetime to Master’. 

 

Community benefits 

 

Pump Tracks?not only offer a space to exercise and improve skills, such as balance and coordination, they also provide a community focal point. Coney Hill Pump Track will become a key feature of the community, with regular , litter picks and events. 

 

A planned track at  

 

Support 

 

This Council notes that children and adult , fitness and mental health is priority. this council will allocate an area of City Council land at off Metz Way by Stanway Road and Boughton Way for the construction of a Pump track. 

 

This location is far enough away from houses and homes to ensure no associated ASB will be generated. 

 

It’s an ideal location for a pump track. 

 

This Council notes that this request is not on the Council Forward Plan and there is at present no funding to invest in it, however the Council will establish a group includingall our partners to develop plans, consult the local community and look for funding to enable delivery of the project in the fullness of time. 

 

This is a great motion helping keep children off the streets, build community’s, support mental health and and promote health equalities to one of the County Councils most deprived areas and the top 10 most deprived areas in England. Please support 

53.12  Councillor A. Chambers proposed and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following motion:

 

“Gloucester City Council created a set of rules and regulations on the 1st August 2014 for the Coney Hill Cemetery and Crematorium. 

 

Following complaints from hundreds of families about their child’s, brothers, don’t fit into the councils ridged set of rules and regulations has caused much hurt and upset around the families who manage their beloved final resting place. ? 

 

Some personal possessions, gifts, pictures, lights and borders have been removed from the graves over night without the families being made aware. I am sure council letters in some cases may have been sent. this does not help the situation when your beloved family’s members picture/ gift or toy has been removed because it was an inch too big. 

 

This council notes that the rigid cemetery and crematorium rules needs reviewing urgently as currently there are many families who have been given a deadline by the council which have threatened to remove personal items from their beloved ones final resting places.? 

 

Graves and resting areas of loved ones should be a place of peace for family members. A place to visit loved ones and feel close. A place of sanctuary where family members option to be able to use colours that they liked, as well as pictures and ornaments. The current rules and regulations are too specific and too rigid.? 

 

There are fixed rules for set edgings, many families afford to buy solid granite sets for edgings and they have used an alternative to mark out their family members resting place. As a the Council have removed these edgings and the gravel infill leaving the resting place bare and empty. A further 12 letters have been sent by the City council to family members to advise they will have items removed from their loved graves if they do not follow the strict council rules. 

 

The council cemetery and crematorium rules need to be reviewed and current family members/users consulted as well as a  

                                       

I therefore ask City Council to support this motion to review the current rules and regulations, while working with family members that maintain the resting places to reach a fair & flexible outcome. The consultation must be conducted within a maximum 8 weeks from this council motion and the new cemetery and crematorium rules and regulations will be in action before the May 2024. The graves under threat of dismantle/ removal of edgings and toys etc will be postponed till the new rules and regulations are created as some of these edgings and toys would fit in the new modern rules approach.”

 

53.13  Councillor Norman proposed and Councillor Dee seconded the following amendment:

 

“Gloucester City Council created a set of rules and regulations on the 1st August 2014 for the Coney Hill Cemetery and Crematorium. 

 

Following complaintsa complaint and comments on social media from hundreds of families about their child’s, brothers, mothers, fathers, & grandparents graves vases/ personal possessions and borders being removed by the council as they don’t fit into the councils ridged rigid set of rules and regulations has caused much hurt and upset around the families who manage their beloved members final resting place. ? 

 

Some personal possessions, gifts, pictures, lights and borders have been removed from the graves over night without the families being made aware. I am sure council letters in some cases may have been sent. this does not help the situation when your beloved family’s members picture/ gift or toy has been removed because it was an inch too big. 

 

This council notes that the rigid cemetery and crematorium rules needs reviewing urgently as currently there are many families who have been given a deadline by the council which have threatened to remove personal items from their beloved ones final resting or the council shall do so and hold for collection.? 

 

Graves and resting areas of loved ones should be a place of peace for family members. A place to visit loved ones and feel close. A place of sanctuary where family members option to be able to use colours that they liked, as well as pictures and ornaments. The current rules and regulations are too specific and too rigid.?These needs however need to be balanced with the requirements of operation cemetery. 

 

From the 2014 rules, Tthere are fixed rules for set edgings, many families can notcannot afford to buy solid granite sets for edgings and they have used an alternative to mark out their family members resting place. As a result, the Council have removed thesewritten to the families advising that these edgings and the gravel infill leaving the resting place and emptyshould be removed within 14 days to comply with the rules which were signed prior to the grave being purchased. Recently, Aafurther 12 letters have been sent by the City council to family members to advise they will have items removed from their loved graves if they do not follow the strict councilcemetery rules. 

 

This council notes the hard work and dedication of the cemetery team who work in a very challenging area, providing support and guidance to the bereaved with the upmost compassion and empathy. 

 

The council cemetery and crematorium rules need to be reviewed and current family members/users consulted as well as a The council agrees to conduct a review of the 2014 rules and regulations for the cemetery, considering industry best practice and the rules of all local cemeteries. A report shall be brought to Cabinet outlining the results. Should this review recommend changes to the rules, Cabinet will be asked to approve a full public consultation requesting comments from families who use the cemetery and all Gloucester residents. This council will also postpone any grave / resting place edging removal till these new rules and regulations have been consulted on, therefore protecting the 12 current graves which are set to be dismantled by Gloucester City Counciluntil the end of the review process and consultation if required. 

 

I therefore ask City Council to support this motion to review the current rules and regulations, while working with family members that maintain the resting places to reach a fair & flexible outcome. The consultation must be conducted within a maximum 8 weeks from this council motion and the new cemetery and crematorium rules and regulations will be in action before the May 2024. The graves under threat of dismantle/ removal of edgings and toys etc will be postponed till the new rules and regulations are created as some of these edgings and toys would fit in the new modern rules approach.”            

 

53.14  The amendment was accepted by the mover of the original motion and therefore became the substantive motion.

 

53.15  RESOLVED that:-

 

Gloucester City Council created a set of rules and regulations on the  

 

Following a complaint and comments on social mediafrom hundreds of families about their child’s, brothers, mothers, fathers, & grandparents graves vases/ personal possessions and borders being removed by the council as they don’t fit into the councils rigidset of rules and regulations has caused much hurt and upset around the families who manage their beloved members final resting place. ? 

 

Some personal possessions, gifts, pictures, lights and borders have been removed from the graves over night without the families being made aware. I am sure council letters have been sent. this does not help the situation when your beloved family’s members picture/ gift or toy has been removed because it was an inch too big. 

 

This council notes that the cemetery and crematorium rules needs reviewing urgently as currently there are many families who have been given a deadline by the council to remove personal items from their beloved ones final resting places or the council shall do so and hold for collection.? 

 

Graves and resting areas of loved ones should be a place of peace for family members. A place to visit loved ones and feel close. A place of sanctuary where family members option to be able to use colours that they liked, as well as pictures and ornaments.?These needs however need to be balanced with the requirements of n operational cemetery. 

 

From the 2014 rules, there are fixed rules for set edgings, many families afford to buy solid granite sets for edgings and they have used an alternative to mark out their family members resting place. As a result, the Council have written to the familiesadvising that these edgings and the gravel infill should be removed within 14 days to comply with the rules which were signed prior to the grave being purchased. Recently, afurther 12 letters have been sent by the City council to family members to advise they will have items removed from their loved graves if they do not follow the cemeteryrules. 

 

This council notes the hard work and dedication of the cemetery team who work in a very challenging area, providing support and guidance to the bereaved with the upmost compassion and empathy. 

 

The council agrees to conduct a review of the 2014 rules and regulations for the cemetery, considering industry best practice and the rules of all local cemeteries. A report shall be brought to Cabinet outlining the results. Should this review recommend changes to the rules, Cabinet will be asked to approve a full public consultation requesting comments from families who use the cemetery and all Gloucester residents.This council will postpone any grave / resting place edging removal until the end of the review process and consultation if required. 

 

53.15   Councillor O’Donnell proposed and Councillor A. Chambers seconded the following motion:

 

“This council notes that there are 20 plus rough sleepers each night in and around our Gloucester City Streets.  

 

After speaking to other organisations who want to remain confidential at this advised that the current system is not fit for purpose. 

 

Rough sleepers who do not own mobile phone devices are unable to receive help as they are missed off the system if they move at the point when the team visit. 

 

This city council owes the rough sleepers a duty of care and protection. Currently there have been numerous incidents of rough tents and bedding being set on fire. 

 

Not only that there are many rough sleepers who have mental health conditions and themselves with several incidents occurring recently.  

 

There are also more worryingly British military veterans that have served our country sleeping rough with no help or assistance.  

 

Temporary hotel places for rough sleepers and ex British military veterans are becoming increasing harder to obtain due to the fact over 2 large Hotels in our city are full to the brim of small boat economic illegal immigrants. These economic immigrants are predominately male of working age. This therefore has left British veterans and nationals out in the cold. 

 

Moreover, the city’s  

 

This council notes that a solution is urgently required to our cities rough sleepers and make our city overall a safer place. 

 

This motion is for the City Council to find an empty building within the city and form a night shelter within 14 days of this motion with a capacity of 100 people. 

 

This will then enable a safe space and shelter for the rough sleepers and any families that find themselves homeless this Christmas. 

 

This night shelter must remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. 

 

The saving of housing people in the temporary night shelter will ensure that the City Council save enormous costs charged by hotels.” 

 

53.16  Councillor S. Chambers proposed and Councillor Padilla seconded the following amendment:

 

“This council notes that there are 20 plus rough sleepers each night in and around our Gloucester City Streets.  

 

After speaking to other organisations who want to remain confidential at this advisedclaimed that the current system is not fit for purposedoes not work as well as it could. 

 

It can be more difficult for Rrough sleepers who do not own mobile phone devices are unable to receive help as they missed off the system if they move at the point when the team visit. 

 

This city council owes the rough sleepers a duty of care and protection. Currently there have been numerous incidents of rough tents and bedding being set on fire. 

 

Not only that there are manyThere are rough sleepers who have mental health conditions .  

 

There are also more worryingly British No one should be sleeping rough on the streets of Gloucester including military veterans that have served our country sleeping rough with no help or assistance.  

 

Temporary hotel places for rough sleepers and ex British military veterans are becoming increasing harder to obtain due to the fact over 2 large Hotels in our city are full to the brim of small boat economic illegal immigrants. These economic immigrants are predominately male of working age. This therefore has left British veterans and nationals out in the cold. 

 

Temporary accommodation for rough sleepers can be harder to obtain due to demand. 

 

Moreover, he cm night shelter has closed this year meaning many U.K. nationals will be left out in the frost and snow over our harsh winterwill not be opening this winter however Severe Weather Emergency Protocol will continue to operate during extreme weather conditions. 

 

This council notes that a solution is urgently required to our citiescity’s rough sleepers and make our city overall a safer place. 

 

This motion is for the City Council to find an empty building within the city and form a night shelter within 14 days of this motion with a capacity of 100 peoplework with partners to provide a night shelter to help meet the needs of rough sleepers that we owe a duty to in Gloucester. 

 

This will then enable a safe space and shelter for the rough sleepers and any families that find themselves homeless this Christmaswith children will always be provided with accommodation either through the city council under the Housing Act 1996 or the County Council under the Children’s Act 1989 so no family should be without a roof this Christmas. 

 

This night shelter must remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a yearwill operate to meet the needs that are required in line with assessed. 

 

The saving of housing people in the temporary night shelter will ensure that the City Council save enormous costs charged by hotelsAny cost saving is to be determined, however this shelter would be another offering to support homeless people we owe a duty to.” 

 

53.17   RESOLVED that:-

 

This council notes that there are rough sleepers each night in and around our Gloucester City Streets.  

 

After speaking to other organisations who want to remain confidential at this claimed that the current system does not work as well as it could. 

 

It can be more difficult for rough sleepers who do not own mobile phone devices to receive help as they missed off the system if they move at the point when the  

 

This city council owes the rough sleepers a duty of care and protection.

 

There are rough sleepers who have mental health conditions.

 

No one should be sleeping rough on the streets of Gloucester includingmilitary veterans that have served our country.

 

Temporary accommodation for rough sleepers can be harder to obtain due to demand. 

 

The City Mission’s night shelter will not be opening this winter however Severe Weather Emergency Protocol will continue to operate during extreme weather conditions. 

 

This council notes that a solution is urgently required to city’s rough sleepers and make our city overall a safer place. 

 

This motion is for the City Council to work with partners to provide a night shelter to help meet the needs of rough sleepers that we owe a duty to in Gloucester. 

 

This will then enable a safe space and shelter for the rough sleepers and families with children will always be provided with accommodation either through the city council under the Housing Act 1996 or the County Council under the Children’s Act 1989 so no family should be without a roof this Christmas. 

 

This night shelter will operate to meet the needs that are required in line with assessed. 

 

Any cost saving is to be determined, however this shelter would be another offering to support homeless people we owe a duty to.

 

53.18  Councillor Wilson proposed and Councillor Hilton seconded the following motion:

 

“At the September meeting of Full of audited accounts for Gloucester City Council for the financial years of 2022/22 and 2022/23 was debated. the it was explained that this was partly due to a crisis in local government auditing that was alsoaffecting other councils in the country. 

? 

Openness and transparency are nonetheless important, especially in these times of great financial uncertainty. 

? 

Council notes that Gloucestershire County Council, Cheltenham Borough Council, Tewkesbury Borough Council, Stroud District Council and The Forest of Dean District Council have all publisheddraft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23. 

? 

Council therefore requires Gloucester City Council to adopt this practice and ensure that fully audited accounts for 2021/22 and draft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23 are published on the council’s website by January 2024.” 

 

53.19  Councillor Norman proposed and Councillor Cook seconded the following amendment:

 

“At the September meeting of Full of audited accounts for Gloucester City Council for the financial years of 2022/22 and 2022/23 was debated. the it was explained that this was partly due to a crisis in local government auditing that was also affecting other councils in the country. 

? 

Openness and transparency are nonetheless important, especially in these times of great financial uncertainty. 

? 

Council notes that Gloucestershire County Council, Cheltenham Borough Council, Tewkesbury Borough Council, Stroud District Council and The Forest of Dean District Council have all published draft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23. 

? 

Council therefore requires Gloucester City Council to adopt this practice and ensure that fully audited accounts for 2021/22, subject to completion of audit work by Deloitte, are published on the website. The Deloitte audit is subject to ongoing proposals from Central Government with regards to expected back stop dates to clear the sector wide backlog of audits. Council also requires thatand draft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23 are published on the council’s website by January 2024before the March 2024 Council meeting to allow transparent debate.”       

 

53.20  The amendment was accepted by the mover of the original motion and therefore became the substantive motion.

 

53.21  RESOLVED that:-

 

At the September meeting of Full of audited accounts for Gloucester City Council for the financial years of 2022/22 and 2022/23 was debated. the it was explained that this was partly due to a crisis in local government auditing that was also affecting other councils in the country. 

? 

Openness and transparency are nonetheless important, especially in these times of great financial uncertainty. 

? 

Council notes that Gloucestershire County Council, Cheltenham Borough Council, Tewkesbury Borough Council, Stroud District Council and The Forest of Dean District Council have all published draft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23. 

? 

Council therefore requires Gloucester City Council to adopt this practice and ensure that fully audited accounts for 2021/22, subject to completion of audit work by Deloitte, are published on the website. The Deloitte audit is subject to ongoing proposals from Central Government with regards to expected back stop dates to clear the sector wide backlog of audits. Council also requires thatdraft (unaudited) accounts for 2022/23 are published on the council’s website before the March 2024 Council meeting to allow transparent debate.

 

53.22  Councillor Patel proposed and Councillor Zaman seconded the following motion:

 

“This council strongly condemns the horrific atrocities by Hamas on the people of Israel on 7th October 2023.  

 

We not only condemn those atrocities, but also the current campaign of bombings (over 10,000 bombs so far) by Israel on residential towers, schools, hospitals, ambulances and refugee camps killing and injuring thousands of innocent Palestinian people. Since 7th October, approximately 10,000 Palestinians have died (40% of those were children) and over 1,400 in this latest conflict.  

 

We call on the council leader to write to the MP Richard Graham and PM Rishi Sunak urging Israel to immediately stop the bombings and collective punishment against 2 million Palestinian people, call on Hamas to free the innocent kidnapped Israeli citizens back to Israel. We also support a call for a ceasefire by both IDF and Hamas. 

 

A blockade preventing access to the most basic human necessities such as food, water, electricity, medical supplies etc is also classed as a war crime under International Law.  

 

This council agrees with the world that Hamas are terrorists and that they don’t represent the Palestinian people, and furthermore acknowledges that Israel’s fight is with Hamas, not the Palestinian people.  

 

We therefore call on the British Government and all its allies to listen to us and the  

 

We also call on the Home Secretary to cease her unacceptable attempts to suppress the democratic rights of the British people to peaceful protests. 

 

This council prays for peace not only in Israel/Palestine, but all over the world and we condemn all forms of hate crimes such as Antisemitism, Islamophobia etc.” 

 

53.23  RESOLVED that:-

 

This council strongly condemns the horrific atrocities by Hamas on the people of Israel on 7th October 2023.  

 

We not only condemn those atrocities, but also the current campaign of bombings (over 10,000 bombs so far) by Israel on residential towers, schools, hospitals, ambulances and refugee camps killing and injuring thousands of innocent Palestinian people. Since 7th October, approximately 10,000 Palestinians have died (40% of those were children) and over 1,400 in this latest conflict.  

 

We call on the council leader to write to the MP Richard Graham and PM Rishi Sunak urging Israel to immediately stop the bombings and collective punishment against 2 million Palestinian people, call on Hamas to free the innocent kidnapped Israeli citizens back to Israel. We also support a call for a ceasefire by both IDF and Hamas. 

 

A blockade preventing access to the most basic human necessities such as food, water, electricity, medical supplies etc is also classed as a war crime under International Law.  

This council agrees with the world that Hamas are terrorists and that they don’t represent the Palestinian people, and furthermore acknowledges that Israel’s fight is with Hamas, not the Palestinian people.  

 

We therefore call on the British Government and all its allies to listen to us and the  

 

We also call on the Home Secretary to cease her unacceptable attempts to suppress the democratic rights of the British people to peaceful protests. 

 

This council prays for peace not only in Israel/Palestine, but all over the world and we condemn all forms of hate crimes such as Antisemitism, Islamophobia etc.