Issue - meetings

A period of 20 minutes is allocated for questions to be put to Cabinet Members by members of the Council. Notice of questions need not be given in advance of the meeting. Questions must relate to the powers, duties or responsibilities of the Cabinet. Questions put to Cabinet Members must relate to their portfolio responsibilities.

The Leader will determine how Cabinet question time should be allocated where there are a number of Members wishing to ask questions. Where a question relates to a matter which appears on the agenda, the Leader may allow the question to be asked at the beginning of consideration of that item.

Councillor R Fletcher had raised a question at the December meeting regarding car parks in Alsager and inconsistencies in conditions of service in Alsager from other areas of the Borough. He indicated that he was still awaiting a reply. The Chairman assured Councillor Fletcher that his question was still logged and under consideration. At the Leader’s invitation, the Executive Director Place added that the matter was being looked at in detail with a view to providing a precise answer as soon as possible.

Councillor S Hogben asked about the facility to report environmental services and highways issues via the “Fix My Street” app, and why this no longer redirected to the appropriate Cheshire East Council website. He also asked whether there should be some communication around this to make it clear to those wishing to use the facility. The Portfolio Holder for Environment stated that the Council’s own website for reporting issues was a more efficient and effective way of reporting highways and other matters. The Leader noted the concern around the need for communication and agreed to take this away for further consideration.

Councillor D Flude referred to the insanitary and untidy condition of the car park under the old library building in Crewe. There had also been reports of cars being vandalised. She asked whether there were any plans to provide CCTV surveillance at the car park, and whether consideration had been given to a reduction in the parking charges at this car park in recognition of the issues with the car park. The Leader indicated that a written response would be provided.

Councillor B Moran asked a number of detailed questions relating to housing land supply and housing need in Cheshire East. The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Planning and Regeneration answered each question in detail.