Agenda item

1.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR CHAMBERS-DUBUS

 

“In 2021, across England and Wales the proportion of disabled people was 17.8% so in the drive for equality this council needs to make sure 17.8% of licenced taxis and private hire vehicles available during all operating hours are Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).

 

Currently, whilst there are WAVs licensed by the council most only operate during daytime hours and many of those concentrate on providing specialist services to schools, colleges and other day time projects. This means that disabled people struggle and are often limited when needing a taxi to go shopping, get to work or go the railway station etc.

 

The situation in the evening and at weekends is worsened as there are very few taxis and operators prepared or available to take disabled people for a night out to the cinema, pub, restaurant, nightclub or simply to visit friends.

 

Whilst acknowledging the Councils licensing team are making changes to increase the number of WAVs, taxi and private hire operators need further encouragement to ensure that at least 17.8% are WAVs.

 

This council therefore resolves to:

 

·       Provide business rate discounts to taxi operators who can ensure 17.8% of their vehicles are WAVs and operate them at all times of the day.

 

·       Offer a registration rebate to operators who provide WAVs in the evenings and during weekends.

 

·       Provide free, quality disability awareness training to operators and drivers to enable them to safely transport disabled people.

 

·       Consider other incentives for operators.

 

·       Review and increase the percentage of WAVs available for public use, particularly during the evenings and at weekends.”

 

2.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR HUDSON

 

“This Councils notes;

 

A motion to this council on spiking in 2021 has helped progress the work by the Council and offers thanks to Gloucestershire Constabulary, GCC Licensing team, Nightsafe partners, and the individual licensed premises in Gloucester who have put extra measures in place to prevent and detect incidents of spiking in Gloucester.

 

The measures include drink testing kits, educational campaigns, the introduction of quiet areas for potential victims, spiking training, urine testing kits, and the successful street medic scheme who are medically trained to help those who may have been spiked and feel unwell.

 

This Councils supports the continuation and expansion of all these measures to ensure ALL licensed pubs, nightclubs and restaurants in Gloucester are aware of spiking and have provision to prevent and detect incidents in the day and night time economy including knowing how to support potential victims to get help and stay safe. 

 

The Council resolves:

 

·       To explore whether conditions on licenced premises can be included through the Council’s licencing regime whether voluntarily or mandatory to ensure venues have appropriate security and staff training in place to improve safety including the search for spiking paraphernalia and recognising signs that someone could be perpetrating this offence;

 

·       To commit to work with key stakeholders, particularly those in the night-time economy, to review existing practices in use and implement all possible safety options as a matter of urgency, including training for staff on how to administer the kits, what to do in the event of a positive result, and promotional material promoting how customers can access the kits;

 

·       To commit to working in partnership with all key stakeholders, to renew Gloucester’s Purple Flag status, a benchmark of safety in the night-time economy;

 

·       To work in partnership with all key stakeholders (including The Gloucester BID and OPCC), to determine a funding stream to restart the Best Bar None accreditation scheme which aims to improve and monitor standards of licensed premises.”

 

3.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR HILTON

 

"This council notes the increase in graffiti that is appearing on private and public buildings across the city.

 

This council recognises the negative impact that graffiti has on a particular area that is suffering from this anti-social crime.

 

This council agrees to review its current policy on dealing with the removal of graffiti from both public and private buildings.

 

This council agrees that it must strengthen its arrangements with key stakeholders to ensure more is done to catch and prosecute the perpetrators in a timely manner."

 

4.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

“Gloucester City Council notes that the city centre is looking empty and bland. The city scene is below standard compared to that of the Gloucester Docks area. And the city centre is a grey space that needs uplifting.

 

Gloucester City Councils mission is to get more people outside and green the grey in our city. We know adding beautiful planters and softening an urban landscape are great ways to achieve this. They create colorful and welcoming spaces for communities that people want to spend time in and enjoy. 

 

Here are five reasons why you this City Council motion should be accepted to enable all city councillors to green the grey.

 

Improved air quality

Did you know plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air? This is the process known as photosynthesis and as humans breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide plants do the opposite making the surrounding air quality better. Trees and plants also act as filters for urban pollutants and fine particulates by trapping the nasties in their leaves and bark. That’s why the more plants we have in our Gloucester City environment the better, they not only help us breathe better and cleaner air they form an essential part of our surrounding atmosphere. City council to add a minimum of 20 planters to the city centre 5 North/ 5 South/ 5 East and 5 West streets. Planters to include colour and greenery. 

 

Good for mental and physical health

Studies have proven that seeing and being close to plants helps reduce anxiety and stress levels in human beings. Gloucester City is dominated by the hospital tower block some older 1960s apartment blocks that don’t have any outside space, that can have a negative effect on adults and children including decreased concentration levels and increased psychological stress. Providing planters in Gloucester will help bring people closer to nature, they will create inviting greener spaces and people are more likely to leave their homes, go outside and exercise if there are attractive spaces filled with colourful plants to enjoy. Gloucester City Council to include in the planters, plants that give good scents and aromatic smells to the public.

 

Sustainable communities

The fact is we all want to contribute to living in a more sustainable world, in cities there are a number of ways we can use plants to contribute to our sustainable development. Rooftop allotments are a great way of growing fruit and vegetables in a sustainable way, it has long term environmental benefits; saves money and is much more nutritious than shop bought produce. The community benefits are also greater as urban gardening connects the community together over common sustainable purposes. There are several roof top spaces on City Council buildings around the city that are not being used. These would make the perfect place for these allotments. City Council to review places for allotments. 

 

Economic benefits

In towns and shopping centres the addition of simple landscaping and planters by businesses can be largely effective in attracting more customers and boosting sales. The addition of plants, flowers and shrubs help to cultivate a positive environment where people can thrive. Greenery can also provide economic benefits to property owners; investing in landscaping can potentially boost property values and attract a wealthier market. Planting can reinforce a sense of identity amongst neighbourhoods providing potential jobs or hobbies for the community. Initiatives like rooftop allotments are a great example of this – they encourage residents to get involved in their communities through allotment rentals all the while providing fresh produce for the locals. City Council to look into a Greener Gloucester City Centre business Competition. Where businesses make the outside of their premises greener with plants and hanging baskets. The mayor will then pick a winner, second place and runner up. 

 

Defining spaces & pedestrian movement

Planters, when used strategically, provide the ability to divide spaces and manage pedestrian movement to aid with meeting social distancing requirements; pathways can be clearly separated from other areas. They can also be used to hide unsightly areas, to act as subtle visual and physical access barriers, or simply to enhance dead space between commercial buildings and roads. Gloucester City Council Centre to look at defining spaces movement with 50 additional planters to be included. These 50 are additional to the 20 planters the City Council are providing. These planters will be sponsored by local businesses. The cost of the planter/ soil/ plants and small advertising badge and QR code to the business website would be covered by the local Gloucester business. This would raised income for the 50 additional sponsored planters as well as help to cover the cost of the watering of the planter. Businesses sponsorships will be for 1 year, and other businesses can take on the sponsorship of planters in following years. This would be a self funding green scheme. 

 

This motion is a fairly simple motion to make happen, which could be actioned with plan and locations before the 30.03.2024 and implemented with planters on the streets of Gloucester before 30.04.2024 deadline.”

 

5.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

“Gloucester City Council recognises that Public benches should be viewed for health and wellbeing benefits – not anti-social behaviour.

 

Gloucester City Council encourages people to hang out on public benches which is recognised as essential for mental health and social wellbeing and should not be viewed as unwelcome lingering or potential anti-social behaviour, according to new research published by the University of Sheffield and The Young Foundation.

 

Researchers in the University's Department of Landscape and the London-based think tank, found that sitting on benches allows people to spend longer outside, which is both beneficial for mental health and allows people to connect with others in their community. This is particularly important for people who find cafes too expensive or may be marginalised from other collective environments, such as work or education.

 

The findings are part of the Bench Project – a collaboration between the University's Department of Landscape and The Young Foundation with Sheffield Hallam University, The University of Sussex and the Greenwich Inclusion Project – which investigated the use of public spaces in two different London neighbourhoods, Woolwich and Sutton.

 

The researchers found that access to free public benches was also beneficial for physical health, as they can provide resting places for those with limited mobility to walk around. They also provide places to sit for people who want to meet in large groups, for example teenagers after school, and a space for people who are not in work or education to sit outside and watch the world go by – combatting loneliness and isolation.

 

The project addressed concerns that hostile architecture – the use of deliberately uncomfortable seating - is being used to dissuade people from meeting in public spaces. And while the traditional park bench – wooden slats, metal arms – is strong on comfort, it's less flexible as a meeting place for many people who enjoy gathering in larger groups.

 

They also argue that what is considered to be 'anti-social behaviour' around benches is often simply 'differently-social'. They found that people who share space together in a park or town square are largely tolerant of big groups, banter and the occasional drink (only where acceptable, legal and allowed). In diverse communities, this acceptance of a wide range of behaviours is crucial, and being able to use benches and enjoy high quality public space can contribute positively to a sense of local belonging.

 

The research also found people should be encouraged to use benches through good planning, design and management of spaces. Good visibility, open space, zoned quiet and noisy areas and high pedestrian movement should be used to help people feel safe.

 

The project, which was funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, has produced an 18-minute documentary, titled 'Alone Together, the Social Life of Benches' which will be premiered in Woolwich and Sutton in 2015. Directed by Esther Johnson, the film shows the daily rhythms of life in the two locations.

 

Clare Rishbeth, from the University of Sheffield's Department of Landscape and the project's Principal Investigator, said: "It is heartening to find how sitting outside can improve quality of life for many people, and underlines the importance of socially aware design of both benches and public space."

 

Radhika Bynon, from The Young Foundation, added: "Benches are egalitarian, and the current trend of removing them in cities damages community life. Our research found that benches help people to feel a sense of belonging to an area, and helps to combat loneliness and isolation."

 

Gloucester City Council understands that good comfortable seating is fundamental on the health and wellbeing of the city Centre.

 

Therefore Gloucester city council will provide a minimum of 16 x additional benches or seating systems which will take 2 people minimum per application. (Therefore additional seating for 32 people). This will work out as 4 bench/ seat systems per Gate street. 4 x East / 4 x West/ 4 x North/ 4 x South

 

Gloucester city council will also offer to business the opportunity to sponsor a further 20 benches/ seat systems. To be placed also on these gates streets pedestrian area. The businesses will sponsor the benches and will have a small brass plaque on each bench with which company sponsored the bench and a QR code taking you to the company website.

 

The sit down Gloucester seating & bench motion is a simple one to get installed and fitted in the city. Therefore action plan to be created with 4 weeks of the motion 25/02/24 sponsorship packages out to public 14/03/24

Installation of seating by 30/04/24

 

Cllr Chambers notes:

 

‘’Outdoor seating reduces isolation. Also when space is shared, everyone benefits – studies show that shared places become safer and more interesting. We are always passing through places; sometimes it’s good to just be somewhere and feel a sense of belonging.””

 

6.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR O’DONNELL

 

“Council members,

 

I rise today to propose a motion that addresses a critical issue within our community – the urgent need for emergency accommodation. It is no secret that our city is facing a growing crisis of homelessness and displacement, exacerbated by a lack of affordable housing options. In light of this, I propose that we explore the possibility of converting empty properties into emergency accommodation to provide immediate relief to those in need.

 

Empty properties, whether they be vacant homes, abandoned buildings, or unused commercial spaces, present a unique opportunity to address the pressing issue of emergency housing. By repurposing these properties, we can swiftly provide safe and secure shelter to individuals and families who find themselves without a home due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

This motion aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

1.    Utilizing Existing Resources: Empty properties represent an underutilised resource within our community. By converting them into emergency accommodation, we can make the most of these existing structures and ensure that they serve a purpose in addressing the urgent needs of our most vulnerable residents.

 

2.    Swift Response to Emergencies: Converting empty properties into emergency accommodation allows us to respond quickly to crises such as natural disasters, economic downturns, or sudden displacement. This immediate response is crucial in ensuring that individuals and families have a safe place to stay during times of uncertainty.

 

3.    Cost-Effective Solution: Converting empty properties into emergency accommodation can be a cost-effective approach compared to constructing new facilities from scratch. By repurposing existing structures, we can minimize expenses while still providing essential shelter and support services to those in need.

 

4.    Community Engagement and Revitalisation: This motion also presents an opportunity for community engagement and revitalisation. By converting empty properties, we can breathe new life into neglected areas, fostering a sense of pride and community ownership. This approach not only addresses the immediate need for emergency accommodation but also contributes to the long-term development of our city.

 

To achieve these objectives, I propose the following actions:

 

1.    Conduct an inventory: Initiate a comprehensive survey to identify and assess all empty properties within our jurisdiction that have the potential to be converted into emergency accommodation.

 

2.    Establish partnerships: Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including property owners, community organizations, and housing agencies, to develop a framework for converting empty properties into emergency accommodation. This partnership will ensure the efficient utilization of resources and expertise.

 

3.    Streamline regulations: Review and amend existing regulations, if necessary, to facilitate the conversion process. This may include expedited planning permissions, zoning adjustments, and financial incentives to encourage property owners to participate in this initiative.

 

4.    Allocate funding: Allocate a dedicated budget to support the conversion of empty properties into emergency accommodation. This funding can be sourced from various channels, including government grants, public-private partnerships, and community fundraising efforts.

 

5.    Monitor and evaluate: Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the effectiveness of the converted emergency accommodation and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal outcomes for the residents.

 

In conclusion, converting empty properties into emergency accommodation presents a viable and practical solution to address the pressing issue of homelessness and displacement within our community. By repurposing these properties, we can provide immediate relief to those in need, utilize existing resources, and foster community engagement and revitalization. I urge all council members to support this motion and work together to make a positive impact on the lives of our most vulnerable residents.

 

7.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR O’DONNELL

 

“Council members,

 

I rise today to propose a motion that addresses a significant concern within our community I have spoken to Ben Baker, who i believe is the curator and he tells me they still have 4 years left on the lease – there is urgent need to repair and maintain the historic Kings Theatre in Eastgate Street. This iconic landmark holds immense cultural and historical value, and it is our responsibility to ensure its preservation for future generations to enjoy, and I feel it will make a great asset for gloucester.

 

The Kings Theatre has long been a centerpiece of the community, serving as a hub for entertainment and cultural events. However, over time, neglect and lack of maintenance have taken their toll on this magnificent structure. The deterioration of the building not only poses safety risks but also threatens to erase an essential part of our local heritage.

 

This motion aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

1.    Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The Kings Theatre stands as a testament to our community's rich history and cultural identity. By repairing and maintaining this iconic landmark, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving our heritage and ensuring that future generations can appreciate and enjoy its architectural and historical significance.

 

2.    Economic Revitalisation: The restoration of the Kings Theatre has the potential to contribute significantly to the economic revitalisation of Eastgate Street and the surrounding area. A restored and vibrant theatre will attract visitors, stimulate local businesses, and create job opportunities, thus enhancing the overall economic prosperity of our community.

 

3.    Community Engagement: The Kings Theatre has always been a gathering place for the Gloucester community, fostering a sense of unity and pride. By investing in its repair and maintenance, we provide a space for cultural events, performances, and community activities, promoting social cohesion and engagement among our residents.

 

To achieve these objectives, I propose the following actions:

 

1.    Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment: Initiate a thorough assessment of the current condition of the Kings Theatre, including structural integrity, safety hazards, update disability access and necessary repairs. This assessment should be done no later than 4 weeks and will serve as a foundation for developing a comprehensive restoration plan.

 

2.    Secure Funding: Explore various funding sources, including government grants, private sponsorships, community fundraising, and partnerships with arts and cultural organisations, to secure the necessary financial resources for the repair and maintenance of the Kings Theatre.

 

3.    Develop a Restoration Plan: Engage architectural and engineering experts to develop a detailed restoration plan that addresses the structural, aesthetic, and functional aspects of the Kings Theatre. This plan should prioritize safety, accessibility, and the preservation of historical elements. This should be looked at within 6 months of this motion

 

4.    Establish Partnerships: Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as heritage preservation organizations, local businesses, and community groups, to form partnerships that will support the restoration efforts. These partnerships can provide expertise, resources, and community engagement opportunities.

 

5.    Implement a Maintenance Program: Once the restoration is complete, establish a comprehensive maintenance program to ensure the ongoing preservation and upkeep of the Kings Theatre. This program should include regular inspections, repairs, and necessary upgrades to maintain the building's integrity and functionality.

 

In conclusion, the repair and maintenance of the Kings Theatre in Eastgate Street is not only a matter of preserving our cultural heritage but also an opportunity for economic revitalization and community engagement. By investing in this iconic landmark, we demonstrate our commitment to our community's history, identity, and future prosperity. I urge all council members to support this motion and work together to restore the Kings Theatre to its former glory.”

 

8.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

“Gloucester City council agrees that flags are a very British way of expressing joy and pride – they are emotive symbols which can boost local and national identities, strengthen community cohesion and mark civic pride.

 

The City Council understands that the government wants to see more flags flown, particularly the Union Flag, the flag of the United Kingdom. It is a symbol of national unity and pride. The government has recently issued guidance encouraging the flying of the Union Flag on all UK government buildings throughout the year, alongside other national and local flags.

 

The Government website (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flying-flags-a-plain-english-guide/flying-flags-a-plain-english-guide) states the Government is keen for local authorities and other local organisations to follow suit. The Government have made it easier for the Union Flag to be flown alongside other flags, so organisations can highlight their local identities, as well as their national identities, and celebrate special days or events which champion civic pride.

 

In England, the flying of flags is treated as advertisements for the purposes of the planning regime to ensure the flags do not impact on safety or amenity. Some flags require formal consent (permission) from the local planning authority, whereas others like the Union Flag do not. The detailed controls over flag flying are set out in detailed regulations (see link shown above).

 

As long as the above legislation is adhered to, This Gloucester City Council will promote the display of the Union Flag around Gloucester. 

 

Gloucester City Council will purchase a minimum of 1000 Union Flags (average cost of Union flag is £3.00 on quantities of 100 plus brought) therefore the total spend for the Union flags is very low a maximum of £3,000

 

The positive benefit to Gloucester City of the promotion and supply of Union Flags in the City will increase National pride, National Identity and National awareness of the City of Gloucester. Gloucesters City’s overall financial income will be increased with more tourists visiting, which will enable the realisation of financial gain to the city of tens of thousands of pounds brought in by visiting tourists drawn to the Union Flag display. Therefore a great financial return on the very small outlay. 

 

Each shop/ store and building within the immediate Gloucester city centre gated walls streets will be provided with a free Union flag to display. Those opting out of the Union flag display will have to return their flag to be used at another location by another retailer/ business or residential premises with the designated area. 

 

Shops will ideally buy and install a wall mounted flag pole. This will help set the scene well and provide a wealth of colour and national pride to Gloucester City as well as a decorated street. 

 

Let’s make our city have the most Union Flags within a square kilometre in the whole country, restore community well-being.

 

Let’s be proud of our British Identity, our Union flag and our British history.

 

Union Motion to be programme planned by 25/02/2024

Union Flags purchased by 07/03/2024

Union Flags to be issued to shops/ stores/ buildings by 14/03/2024

Union Flags issued and installed by 30/04/2024.

70.1    Councillor Chambers-Dubus and Councillor Pullen moved the following motion:

 

“In 2021, across England and Wales the proportion of disabled people was 17.8% so in the drive for equality this council needs to make sure 17.8% of licenced taxis and private hire vehicles available during all operating hours are Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).

 

Currently, whilst there are WAVs licensed by the council most only operate during daytime hours and many of those concentrate on providing specialist services to schools, colleges and other day time projects. This means that disabled people struggle and are often limited when needing a taxi to go shopping, get to work or go the railway station etc.

 

The situation in the evening and at weekends is worsened as there are very few taxis and operators prepared or available to take disabled people for a night out to the cinema, pub, restaurant, nightclub or simply to visit friends.

 

Whilst acknowledging the Councils licensing team are making changes to increase the number of WAVs, taxi and private hire operators need further encouragement to ensure that at least 17.8% are WAVs.

 

This council therefore resolves to:

 

·       Provide business rate discounts to taxi operators who can ensure 17.8% of their vehicles are WAVs and operate them at all times of the day.

·       Offer a registration rebate to operators who provide WAVs in the evenings and during weekends.

·       Provide free, quality disability awareness training to operators and drivers to enable them to safely transport disabled people.

·       Consider other incentives for operators.

Review and increase the percentage of WAVs available for public use, particularly during the evenings and at weekends.”

 

70.2    Councillor Norman proposed and Councillor Brooker seconded the following amendment:

 

“In 2021, across England and Wales the proportion of disabled people was 17.8%, with 8% of those who are registered as disabled requiring the use of a wheelchair. Therefore, so in the to drive for equality this council needs to make sure that 17.8% of the licenced taxis and private hire vehicles and drivers available during all operating hours are suitable for the needs of our disabled population includingWheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).

 

Currently, whilst there are WAVs licensed by the council most only operate during daytime hours and many of those concentrate on providing specialist services to schools, colleges and other day time projects. This means that wheelchair users disabled people struggle and are often limited when needing a taxi to go shopping, get to work or go the railway station etc.

 

The situation in the evening and at weekends is worsened as there are very few taxis and operators prepared or available to take wheelchair users disabled people for a night out to the cinema, pub, restaurant, nightclub or simply to visit friends. Whilst acknowledging the Councils licensing team are making changes to increase the number of WAVs, Taxi and private hire operators need further encouragement to ensure that WAVs are available for more operating hours, including evenings and weekends. at least 17.8% are WAVs.

 

This council notes that:

 

• in September 2023 the Licensing and Enforcement Committee approved a policy exempting WAVs from the age and euro omission standards that apply to saloon vehicles.
• any new Hackney Carriage vehicle licences must be wheelchair accessible.
• most of the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Drivers in Gloucester are self-employed and therefore can choose which hours to work.
• There is currently no national legislation which mandates the requirement to have a WAV available 24/7.

 

This council therefore resolves to:

 

• Provide business rate discounts to taxi operators who can ensure 17.8% of their vehicles are WAVs and operate them at all times of the day.
• Subject to consultation with the trade, offer an operator licence registration 50% rebate to operators who can evidence provide at least one WAVs available for bookings during all evenings and during weekends
• Promote alongside the required safeguarding training Provide free, quality disability awareness training to operators and drivers to enable them to safely transport disabled people and understand the needs of all disabled passengers, including those who may have hidden disabilities.
• Consider other incentives for operators, learning from best practice within other authorities.
• Continue to review and aim to increase the percentage of WAVs available for public use (to 10% of the Gloucester fleet), and promote with Hackney Carriage, Private Hire Drivers and Operators the importance of them providing their service particularly during the evenings and at weekends.
• Write to the Secretary of State for Transport and the Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work to ask them to consider a change to legislation to give local authorities powers to mandate operating hours of WAVs.”

 

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

 

70.4    Councillor A. Chambers and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following amendment which proposed adding the following two points to the original motion;

 

·       As well any new Hackney Carriage vehicle licences, any new private hire vehicle licences must be wheelchair accessible.

·       Meet with Gloucester city taxi providers and look at ways to adapt current digital taxi applications which are already in use to enable disabled blue badge holders priority collection over able bodied customers.”

 

70.5    The mover of the original motion accepted this amendment in parts, which would delete the penultimate paragraph. This proposal was accepted by the mover of the amendment.

 

          RESOLVED:- That

 

“In 2021, across England and Wales the proportion of disabled people was 17.8%, with 8% of those who are registered as disabled requiring the use of a wheelchair. Therefore, to drive equality this council needs to make sure that the licenced taxis and private hire vehicles and drivers available during all operating hours are suitable for the needs of our disabled population includingWheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).

 

Currently, whilst there are WAVs licensed by the council most only operate during daytime hours and many of those concentrate on providing specialist services to schools, colleges and other day time projects. This means that wheelchair users struggle and are often limited when needing a taxi to go shopping, get to work or go the railway station etc.

 

The situation in the evening and at weekends is worsened as there are very few taxis and operators available to take wheelchair users for a night out to the cinema, pub, restaurant, nightclub or simply to visit friends. Taxi and private hire operators need further encouragement to ensure that WAVs are available for more operating hours, including evenings and weekends.

 

This council notes that:

 

• in September 2023 the Licensing and Enforcement Committee approved a policy exempting WAVs from the age and euro omission standards that apply to saloon vehicles.
• any new Hackney Carriage vehicle licences must be wheelchair accessible.
• most of the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Drivers in Gloucester are self-employed and therefore can choose which hours to work.
• There is currently no national legislation which mandates the requirement to have a WAV available 24/7.

 

This council therefore resolves to:

 

• Subject to consultation with the trade, offer an operator licence  50% rebate to operators who can evidence at least one WAVs available for bookings during all evenings and during weekends
• Promote alongside the required safeguarding training quality disability awareness training to operators and drivers to enable them to safely transport disabled people and understand the needs of all disabled passengers, including those who may have hidden disabilities.
• Consider other incentives for operators, learning from best practice within other authorities.
• Continue to review and aim to increase the percentage of WAVs available for public use (to 10% of the Gloucester fleet), and promote with Hackney Carriage, Private Hire Drivers and Operators the importance of them providing their service during the evenings and at weekends.
• Write to the Secretary of State for Transport and the Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work to ask them to consider a change to legislation to give local authorities powers to mandate operating hours of WAVs.
• Meet with Gloucester city taxi providers and look at ways to adapt current digital taxi applications which are already in use to enable disabled blue badge holders priority collection over able bodied customers.”

 

70.6    Councillor Hudson proposed and Councillor Brooker seconded,

 

“This Councils notes;

A motion to this council on spiking in 2021 has helped progress the work by the Council and offers thanks to Gloucestershire Constabulary, GCC Licensing team, Nightsafe partners, and the individual licensed premises in Gloucester who have put extra measures in place to prevent and detect incidents of spiking in Gloucester. 

The measures include drink testing kits, educational campaigns, the introduction of quiet areas for potential victims, spiking training, urine testing kits, and the successful street medic scheme who are medically trained to help those who may have been spiked and feel unwell.

This Councils supports the continuation and expansion of all these measures to ensure ALL licensed pubs, nightclubs and restaurants in Gloucester are aware of spiking and have provision to prevent and detect incidents in the day and night time economy including knowing how to support potential victims to get help and stay safe. 

The Council resolves: 

·   To explore whether conditions on licenced premises can be included through the Council’s licencing regime whether voluntarily or mandatory to ensure venues have appropriate security and staff training in place to improve safety including the search for spiking paraphernalia and recognising signs that someone could be perpetrating this offence;

·   To commit to work with key stakeholders, particularly those in the night-time economy, to review existing practices in use and implement all possible safety options as a matter of urgency, including training for staff on how to administer the kits, what to do in the event of a positive result, and promotional material promoting how customers can access the kits;

          This council also notes that many licensed premises in Gloucester allow drinking to excess to maximise profit. The recent police documentary along Eastgate street in Gloucester, highlighted several licensed premises allowing young adults to leave their premises extremely intoxicated which led to several assaults and arrests. This shows a blatant disregard for the safety of customers of these licences premises along with that of the public. The cost to Gloucester Police is significant with many resources spent each week policing this on going alcoholic abuse. Therefore this council will undertake closer monitoring of the public community safety by checking alcoholic abuse at Eastgate street licences premises to help reduce crime in the area and ensure public safety.”

70.8    Following debate, the amendment was accepted and therefore became the substantive motion.

          RESOLVED:- That

“This Councils notes;

A motion to this council on spiking in 2021 has helped progress the work by the Council and offers thanks to Gloucestershire Constabulary, GCC Licensing team, Nightsafe partners, and the individual licensed premises in Gloucester who have put extra measures in place to prevent and detect incidents of spiking in Gloucester. 

The measures include drink testing kits, educational campaigns, the introduction of quiet areas for potential victims, spiking training, urine testing kits, and the successful street medic scheme who are medically trained to help those who may have been spiked and feel unwell.

This Councils supports the continuation and expansion of all these measures to ensure ALL licensed pubs, nightclubs and restaurants in Gloucester are aware of spiking and have provision to prevent and detect incidents in the day and night time economy including knowing how to support potential victims to get help and stay safe. 

The Council resolves: 

·   To explore whether conditions on licenced premises can be included through the Council’s licencing regime whether voluntarily or mandatory to ensure venues have appropriate security and staff training in place to improve safety including the search for spiking paraphernalia and recognising signs that someone could be perpetrating this offence;

·   To commit to work with key stakeholders, particularly those in the night-time economy, to review existing practices in use and implement all possible safety options as a matter of urgency, including training for staff on how to administer the kits, what to do in the event of a positive result, and promotional material promoting how customers can access the kits;

          "This council notes the increase in graffiti that is appearing on private and public buildings across the city.

          This council recognises the negative impact that graffiti has on a particular area that is suffering from this anti-social crime.

          This council agrees to review its current policy on dealing with the removal of graffiti from both public and private buildings.

          This council agrees that it must strengthen its arrangements with key stakeholders to ensure more is done to catch and prosecute the perpetrators in a timely manner."

70.10  Councillor A. Chambers and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following amendment which proposed adding the following two points to the original motion;

          “This council agrees to find a COMMUNITY GRAFFITI WALL / area in this city to enable. The community wall will be in an area that does not offend or upset residents but enables youth artistic freedom and expression.

          A community graffiti wall fosters artistic expression, cultivates a sense of local identity, and provides a creative outlet for residents. It can also serve as a platform for community engagement, encouraging collaboration and communication among diverse individuals.

          The wall will be able to be painted on and over by graffiti artists. There will be rules of the community wall adjacent. These rules for example will explain that nothing can be painted which would cause upset or alarm on the community wall and will be removed if painted.

 



This
community wall will help reduce graffiti on public buildings/ bus stops/
private buildings and statues.”



70.11  The
amendment was not accepted by the mover of the original motion. The amendment
was voted on and was lost.



          RESOLVED:-
That

          This council recognises the negative impact that graffiti has on a particular area that is suffering from this anti-social crime.

          This council agrees to review its current policy on dealing with the removal of graffiti from both public and private buildings.

          This council agrees that it must strengthen its arrangements with key stakeholders to ensure more is done to catch and prosecute the perpetrators in a timely manner."

          As
the meeting had reached the 3-hour mark, the motion to close the meeting was put.
Members voted to close the meeting.