Summary of Full Council Meeting 4 July 2024

Public Participation

During public participation, concerns were raised about the Barge Workshop’s opening times and disabled access. Comments were also made about a public meeting to be held by a group called ‘7 Concerned Citizens’ regarding climate change plans. Questions were also asked concerning Lords Court in Stratton and Pride flags. A member of the public was removed after causing a disruption, leading to a temporary suspension of the meeting.

Food and Activities Programme Report

LJD Coaching reported on their award-winning Food and Activities Programme, which provides meals and activities for children. The programme has won local and national awards, with other towns working with LJD Coaching to replicate the work in Bude.

Report on Wharf Leases

Discussions on Wharf leases led to a potential motion to revisit a previous resolution. The item will be brought back to the next Full Council meeting.

Mayor’s Report

The Mayor noted a quiet month, with routine meetings with town officials.

Cornwall Councillor Update

Cllr LaBroy provided a detailed update on various local issues and projects. He announced the completion of the dredging of Bude Canal and expressed his intention to work with Cornwall Council officers to establish regular maintenance for the canal. He also described ongoing efforts to eliminate the invasive species of zebra mussels from the canal.

Discussions included early proposals for improved access to Summerleaze Beach (sand rails). Cllr LaBroy reported on his meeting with local police regarding crime in Bude and outlined his involvement in a youth project aimed at addressing these concerns.

He touched on broader regional issues, such as the proposed sell-off of Newquay Airport and the development of the mid-Cornwall metro. Locally, he highlighted the activities of the Car Speed Watch group and addressed concerns about grass cutting at St. Michael’s Church graveyard. He also discussed estate management issues at Shorelands, complaints about the sewage plant at Marhamchurch, parking problems, and a request for a 40mph speed limit on the road from Widemouth Bay to Elements.

Additionally, Cllr LaBroy reminded members about the upcoming new waste collection rollout from Cornwall Council. He then took questions from the floor, addressing any further concerns and clarifications needed.

Committee Reports and Recommendations

Committee minutes were noted, and several minor changes and recommendations were approved, including adopting changes to the Planning Committee’s terms of reference and approving the St George’s Flag to be flown from West Shalder Hill on St George’s Day. The Council also approved a letter supporting Cornwall Council’s application for Coastal Transition Accelerator Programme funding, with a request for involvement in the use of any funding.

Youth Facility and Skate Park Projects

The feasibility study for the Youth Facility Project was accepted, moving it to the planning phase of the project delivery. Updates on the Skate Park Project were noted, with new designs approved, allowing progression to submit them for planning permission.

Committee Vacancies and Amendments

There were no nominations for vacancies on the Planning and Cultural & Heritage committees. Cllr Haynes was elected as the second Town Team representative. The Cultural and Heritage Services Committee’s terms of reference were amended to include the Parkhouse Centre.

Lead Councillor Update

Cllr Aulsberry-Vockins provided an update on her recent activities, particularly highlighting her attendance at the Pearl Exchange (PE) Open Day. She reported that the new PE building now offers significantly more space, allowing the organisation to accommodate a larger number of people and enhance its inclusivity efforts. This expanded capacity is expected to benefit the local community by providing more opportunities for engagement and participation in PE’s various programmes and events. Cllr Aulsberry-Vockins also reminded members that the PE would be hosting another Open Day on Sunday, 7th July, encouraging attendance to see the new facilities and learn more about the services offered.

New Policies and Correspondence

BSTC qualified to join the Super Councils Network, with further discussion deferred. A Cornish Language Policy was adopted. Correspondence from the Climate Jury was noted for further discussion.

Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting date was set for 1st August 2024.