Agenda item

1.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

“Gloucester City Council notes that parts of the city centre could be described as is looking empty and bland. The city scene is not to the same standard when compared to that of the Gloucester Docks area. And parts of the city centre 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 colourful and welcoming spaces for communities that people want to spend time in and enjoy.?

 

Here are five reasons why improvements should be considered to help the city.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

This Council notes that:

·       any additional street furniture or planters should be considered in detail, to ensure the correct positioning and funding requirements.

·       that the HSHAZ planned public realm works will include 30 planters of varying size, 11 with seating attached and 12 trees being planted in the area, in the first quarter of 2024.

 

This Council resolves to:

·       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.?

·       To look into the feasibility of using several roof top spaces on City Council buildings around the city that are not being used for another purpose for urban allotments.?

·       To look into the possibility of business sponsorship of any new street furniture in the gate streets, prior to installation.”

 

2.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR O’DONNELL

 

“Council members,

 

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, 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 relief to those in need.

 

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

 

This motion aims to achieve several key objectives:

1.    Utilising Existing Resources: Empty properties represent an underutilised resource within our community. By converting them into emergency accommodation, we could 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 could provide additional accommodation, along with other rest centres to help us to respond quickly to crises such as natural disasters, economic downturns, or sudden displacement. This immediate response could add another element to ensure that individuals and families have a safe place to stay during times of uncertainty.

3.    Cost-Effective Solution: Repurposing existing structures, we can minimise expenses while still providing provide essential shelter and support services to those in need quickly.

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

2.    Establish partnerships: Continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including property owners, community organisations, and housing agencies, to develop solutions for converting empty properties into emergency accommodation. This partnership will ensure the efficient utilisation of resources and expertise.

3.    Streamline regulations: To continue to review local policy to encourage property owners to participate in this initiative.

4.    Allocate funding: To continue with identifying and acquiring property to support consider the conversion of empty properties into emergency accommodation. 

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.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting empty properties into emergency accommodation may present a viable and practical solution to address the pressing issue of homelessness and displacement within our community. By repurposing these properties, we can could provide relief to those in need, utilise existing resources, and foster community engagement and revitalisation. 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.”

 

3.    PROPOSED BY COUNCILLOR A. CHAMBERS

 

“City council motion to ensure equality for hidden disabilities and undertake an audit of council equipment and buildings for disabled inclusion and compliance with Part M building regulations.

This council notes that there are areas of the city council that are not disability compliant and that there is disability discrimination in many parts. For example the very basic of democracy requires a platform for public speaking. To was evident that the city councils democratic public speaking platform was not all inclusive and that public residents attending the council meeting who were disabled were unable to access the public speaking platform. The public speaking platform/
Podium was unable to be reached by the wheel chair users, the speaker platform/podium did not have enough space around it for wheel chair move ability/ turning and access, the speaker podium was too high for the wheel chair users to look over when delivering their questions to council. The speaker platform was not adjustable in anyway to suit disabled wheel chair users. This one very important piece of democracy for public speaking was breaching the equality act/ upsetting disabled public speaking residents and putting barriers in place for democracy. It meant that disabled public speakers were not treated the same as able bodied public speakers. Cllr Chambers demanded that the public speaking podium was immediately updated to an all inclusive one.

This council resolves to:

 

1.    Raise Awareness: Start by raising awareness about hidden disabilities among council members, Council staff, Council subcontractors and communication campaign to the general public. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns.

2.    Conduct an Audit: Undertake a comprehensive audit of all council equipment and buildings to assess their accessibility and compliance with Part M building regulations. This audit should include a review of physical access, signage, parking, and other facilities.

3.    Consult with Disability Organisations: Engage with disability organisations and advocacy groups to gather insights and recommendations on how to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with hidden disabilities. These organisations can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the process.

4.    Develop an Inclusion Plan and amend/update existing plans: Based on the audit findings and input from disability organisations, develop an inclusion plan that outlines specific actions and timelines for improving accessibility and inclusion. This plan should address both physical barriers and attitudinal barriers that may exist within the council.

5.    Implement Accessibility Measures: Implement the recommendations from the inclusion plan, which may include installing ramps, accessible parking spaces, braille signage, sensory-friendly spaces, and other accommodations to ensure equal access for people with hidden disabilities.

6.    Train Staff: Provide training to council staff on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council.

7.    Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of the inclusion plan to ensure that the implemented measures are effective and meeting the needs of people with hidden disabilities. Make adjustments as necessary based on feedback and ongoing assessments.

8.    Educate Councillors: Provide training to councillors on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council chamber and interaction with the public.

 

The city council will consult with legal and accessibility experts to ensure compliance with local regulations/ national equality legislation and best practices.”

78.1    Councillor A. Chambers moved and Councillor O’Donnell seconded the following motion:

 

“Gloucester City Council notes that parts of the city centre could be described as is looking empty and bland. The city scene is not to the same standard when compared to that of the Gloucester Docks area. And parts of the city centre 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 colourful and welcoming spaces for communities that people want to spend time in and enjoy.?

 

Here are five reasons why improvements should be considered to help the city.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

This Council notes that:

·       any additional street furniture or planters should be considered in detail, to ensure the correct positioning and funding requirements.

·       that the HSHAZ planned public realm works will include 30 planters of varying size, 11 with seating attached and 12 trees being planted in the area, in the first quarter of 2024.

 

This Council resolves to:

·       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.?

·       To look into the feasibility of using several roof top spaces on City Council buildings around the city that are not being used for another purpose for urban allotments.?

·       To look into the possibility of business sponsorship of any new street furniture in the gate streets, prior to installation.”

 

78.2    The motion was put to a vote and was carried.

 

78.3    RESOLVED that:-

 

“Gloucester City Council notes that parts of the city centre could be described as is looking empty and bland. The city scene is not to the same standard when compared to that of the Gloucester Docks area. And parts of the city centre 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 colourful and welcoming spaces for communities that people want to spend time in and enjoy.?

 

Here are five reasons why improvements should be considered to help the city.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

This Council notes that:

·       any additional street furniture or planters should be considered in detail, to ensure the correct positioning and funding requirements.

·       that the HSHAZ planned public realm works will include 30 planters of varying size, 11 with seating attached and 12 trees being planted in the area, in the first quarter of 2024.

 

This Council resolves to:

·       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.?

·       To look into the feasibility of using several roof top spaces on City Council buildings around the city that are not being used for another purpose for urban allotments.?

·       To look into the possibility of business sponsorship of any new street furniture in the gate streets, prior to installation.”

 

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

 

    “Council members,

 

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, 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 relief to those in need.

 

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

 

This motion aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

1.    Utilising Existing Resources: Empty properties represent an underutilised resource within our community. By converting them into emergency accommodation, we could 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 could provide additional accommodation, along with other rest centres to help us to respond quickly to crises such as natural disasters, economic downturns, or sudden displacement. This immediate response could add another element to ensure that individuals and families have a safe place to stay during times of uncertainty.

3.    Cost-Effective Solution: Repurposing existing structures, we can minimise expenses while still providing provide essential shelter and support services to those in need quickly.

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

2.    Establish partnerships: Continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including property owners, community organisations, and housing agencies, to develop solutions for converting empty properties into emergency accommodation. This partnership will ensure the efficient utilisation of resources and expertise.

3.    Streamline regulations: To continue to review local policy to encourage property owners to participate in this initiative.

4.    Allocate funding: To continue with identifying and acquiring property to support consider the conversion of empty properties into emergency accommodation. 

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.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting empty properties into emergency accommodation may present a viable and practical solution to address the pressing issue of homelessness and displacement within our community. By repurposing these properties, we can could provide relief to those in need, utilise existing resources, and foster community engagement and revitalisation. 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.”

         

78.5    The motion was put to a vote and was carried.

 

78.6    RESOLVED that:-

 

    “Council members,

 

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, 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 relief to those in need.

 

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

 

This motion aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

1.    Utilising Existing Resources: Empty properties represent an underutilised resource within our community. By converting them into emergency accommodation, we could 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 could provide additional accommodation, along with other rest centres to help us to respond quickly to crises such as natural disasters, economic downturns, or sudden displacement. This immediate response could add another element to ensure that individuals and families have a safe place to stay during times of uncertainty.

3.    Cost-Effective Solution: Repurposing existing structures, we can minimise expenses while still providing provide essential shelter and support services to those in need quickly.

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

2.    Establish partnerships: Continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including property owners, community organisations, and housing agencies, to develop solutions for converting empty properties into emergency accommodation. This partnership will ensure the efficient utilisation of resources and expertise.

3.    Streamline regulations: To continue to review local policy to encourage property owners to participate in this initiative.

4.    Allocate funding: To continue with identifying and acquiring property to support consider the conversion of empty properties into emergency accommodation. 

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.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting empty properties into emergency accommodation may present a viable and practical solution to address the pressing issue of homelessness and displacement within our community. By repurposing these properties, we can could provide relief to those in need, utilise existing resources, and foster community engagement and revitalisation. 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.”

 

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

 

“City council motion to ensure equality for hidden disabilities and undertake an audit of council equipment and buildings for disabled inclusion and compliance with Part M building regulations.

This council notes that there are areas of the city council that are not disability compliant and that there is disability discrimination in many parts. For example the very basic of democracy requires a platform for public speaking. To was evident that the city councils democratic public speaking platform was not all inclusive and that public residents attending the council meeting who were disabled were unable to access the public speaking platform. The public speaking platform/Podium was unable to be reached by the wheel chair users, the speaker platform/podium did not have enough space around it for wheel chair move ability/ turning and access, the speaker podium was too high for the wheel chair users to look over when delivering their questions to council. The speaker platform was not adjustable in anyway to suit disabled wheel chair users. This one very important piece of democracy for public speaking was breaching the equality act/ upsetting disabled public speaking residents and putting barriers in place for democracy. It meant that disabled public speakers were not treated the same as able bodied public speakers. Cllr Chambers demanded that the public speaking podium was immediately updated to an all inclusive one.

This council resolves to:

 

1.    Raise Awareness: Start by raising awareness about hidden disabilities among council members, Council staff, Council subcontractors and communication campaign to the general public. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns.

2.    Conduct an Audit: Undertake a comprehensive audit of all council equipment and buildings to assess their accessibility and compliance with Part M building regulations. This audit should include a review of physical access, signage, parking, and other facilities.

3.    Consult with Disability Organisations: Engage with disability organisations and advocacy groups to gather insights and recommendations on how to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with hidden disabilities. These organisations can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the process.

4.    Develop an Inclusion Plan and amend/update existing plans: Based on the audit findings and input from disability organisations, develop an inclusion plan that outlines specific actions and timelines for improving accessibility and inclusion. This plan should address both physical barriers and attitudinal barriers that may exist within the council.

5.    Implement Accessibility Measures: Implement the recommendations from the inclusion plan, which may include installing ramps, accessible parking spaces, braille signage, sensory-friendly spaces, and other accommodations to ensure equal access for people with hidden disabilities.

6.    Train Staff: Provide training to council staff on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council.

7.    Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of the inclusion plan to ensure that the implemented measures are effective and meeting the needs of people with hidden disabilities. Make adjustments as necessary based on feedback and ongoing assessments.

8.    Educate Councillors: Provide training to councillors on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council chamber and interaction with the public.

 

The city council will consult with legal and accessibility experts to ensure compliance with local regulations/ national equality legislation and best practices.”

 

78.7    Councillor Norman moved and Councillor Padilla seconded the following amendment:

 

“City council motion to ensure equality for hidden disabilities and undertake an audit of council equipment and buildings for disabled inclusion and compliance with Part M building regulations.

 

This council notes that there are areas of the it is important for the city council that are not to be disability compliant and that there is disability discrimination in many parts. For example the very basic of democracy requires a platform for public speaking. To was evident that the city councils democratic public speaking platform was not all inclusive and that public residents attending the council meeting who were disabled were unable to access the public speaking platform. The public speaking platform/Podium was unable to be reached by the wheel chair users, the speaker platform/podium did not have enough space around it for wheel chair move ability/ turning and access, the speaker podium was too high for the wheel chair users to look over when delivering their questions to council. The speaker platform was not adjustable in anyway to suit disabled wheel chair users. This one very important piece of democracy for public speaking was breaching the equality act/ upsetting disabled public speaking residents and putting barriers in place for democracy. It meant that disabled public speakers were not treated the same as able bodied public speakers. Cllr Chambers demanded that the public speaking podium was immediately updated to an all inclusive one.

 

At the January 2024 council meeting, members of the public were advised in advance of the arrangements for wheelchair users to ask their questions, however, we should and can do more to ensure that all residents can ask questions in the same disability compliant way. Many council buildings already have ramps, lifts and disabled toilet facilities, however regular review of disability compliance should be welcomed.

 

This council resolves to:

 

1.    Raise Awareness: Start by raising awareness about hidden disabilities among council members, Council staff, Council subcontractors and a communication campaign to the general public. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns.

2.    Conduct an Audit: Undertake a comprehensive audit of all council equipment and buildings to assess their accessibility and compliance with Part M building regulations. This audit should include a review of physical access, signage, parking, and other facilities.

3.    Consult with Disability Organisations: Engage with disability organisations and advocacy groups to gather insights and recommendations on how to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with hidden disabilities. These organisations can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the process.

4.    Develop an Inclusion Plan and amend/update existing plans: Based on the audit findings and input from disability organisations, develop an inclusion plan that outlines specific actions and timelines for improving accessibility and inclusion. This plan should address both physical barriers and attitudinal barriers that may exist within the council.

5.    Implement Accessibility Measures: Implement the recommendations from the inclusion plan, which may include installing ramps, accessible parking spaces, braille signage, sensory-friendly spaces, and other accommodations to ensure equal access for people with hidden disabilities.

6.    Train Staff: Provide training to council staff on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council.

7.    Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of the inclusion plan to ensure that the implemented measures are effective and meeting the needs of people with hidden disabilities. Make adjustments as necessary based on feedback and ongoing assessments.

8.    Educate CouncillorsAwareness: Provide training to councillors on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council chamber and interaction with the public.

 

The city council will consult with legal and accessibility experts to ensure compliance with local regulations/ national equality legislation and best practices.”

 

78.8    The amendment was accepted by the proposer of the original motion and therefore became the substantive motion. The motion was put to a vote and was carried.

 

78.9    RESOLVED that:-

 

This council notes that it is important for the city council to be disability compliant.

 

At the January 2024 council meeting, members of the public were advised in advance of the arrangements for wheelchair users to ask their questions, however, we should and can do more to ensure that all residents can ask questions in the same disability compliant way. Many council buildings already have ramps, lifts and disabled toilet facilities, however regular review of disability compliance should be welcomed.

 

This council resolves to:

 

1.    Raise Awareness: Start by raising awareness about hidden disabilities among council members, Council staff, Council subcontractors and acommunication campaign to the general public. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns.

2.    Conduct an Audit: Undertake a comprehensive audit of all council equipment and buildings to assess their accessibility and compliance with Part M building regulations. This audit should include a review of physical access, signage, parking, and other facilities.

3.    Consult with Disability Organisations: Engage with disability organisations and advocacy groups to gather insights and recommendations on how to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with hidden disabilities. These organisations can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the process.

4.    Develop an Inclusion Plan and amend/update existing plans: Based on the audit findings and input from disability organisations, develop an inclusion plan that outlines specific actions and timelines for improving accessibility and inclusion. This plan should address both physical barriers and attitudinal barriers that may exist within the council.

5.    Implement Accessibility Measures: Implement the recommendations from the inclusion plan, which may include installing ramps, accessible parking spaces, braille signage, sensory-friendly spaces, and other accommodations to ensure equal access for people with hidden disabilities.

6.    Train Staff: Provide training to council staff on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council.

7.    Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of the inclusion plan to ensure that the implemented measures are effective and meeting the needs of people with hidden disabilities. Make adjustments as necessary based on feedback and ongoing assessments.

8.    Councillor Awareness: Provide training to councillors on disability awareness, inclusive practices, and how to effectively communicate and support individuals with hidden disabilities. This will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the council chamber and interaction with the public.

 

The city council will consult with legal and accessibility experts to ensure compliance with local regulations/ national equality legislation and best practices.”