Issue - meetings

The report of the Chief Executive is attached.

It was RESOLVED that the work of officers of the Council and partners in responding to and supporting the recovery from Covid 19 be noted.

The Leader presented the report of the Chief Executive, providing an update on the work completed to date on response and recovery due to the Covid 19 pandemic since February 2021, and detailing an outline of plans to support the recovery from Covid 19.

The Leader highlighted the key headlines in the report, which reflected the work undertaken both internally and externally by the Council during the pandemic. Cabinet noted the changes to lockdown levels since January 2021, and the overview of restrictions, including the recent confirmation by the Government of the lifting of some restrictions scheduled for 17 May 2021, with a further easing of restrictions currently planned for 21 June 2021, details of which were highlighted in the report.

In respect of community issues, Cabinet noted the excellent work undertaken to ensure that the Council’s parks and open spaces have been appropriately managed, as usage increased, details of which were highlighted in the report.  The Leader also referred to the success of the vaccine programme, which was underpinning the easing of restrictions and referred to the key role that the Council had played to support that programme, with the use of the Gamston Community Centre as a vaccination centre, which had so far administered over 50,000 vaccine doses.  Cabinet was advised that the feedback from all users had been excellent and the Leader thanked all the staff and volunteers for their hard work and commitment.  Reference was also made to the successful running of the test and trace facility at the Arena, which continued to play a key role.

The Leader reiterated the importance of the financial support given to businesses throughout the pandemic, including business rate grants, an extension to the Reopening High Streets Safely (RHSS) funding, and funding from the Department for Work and Pensions to support vulnerable families, details of which were highlighted in the report.  The speed, efficiency and effectiveness of the funding roll out was emphasised, and officers were thanked for their hard work to facilitate that.

In respect of leisure, the significant impact to this sector could not be underestimated and the Leader confirmed that the Council had been successful in securing funding of £224,000 from the National Leisure Recovery Fund.  Cabinet noted the successful reopening of the leisure centres, and it was envisaged that with the further lifting of restrictions on 17 May 2021, more services would become available.  Cabinet noted that the hospitality sector, which played a key role in the Borough’s economy, had been able to start operating again, by expanding outdoor facilities, with the advice and support of Enforcement officers playing a key role in ensuring safety measures were adhered to.

The Leader referred to the funding given to community groups throughout the Borough, details of which were highlighted in the report, and the significant positive impact that had made to so many.     

In conclusion, the Leader referred to positive news that the ‘Proms in the Park’ event was scheduled for 26 June 2021, with any social distancing  ...  view the full minutes text for item 64