Questions are invited from members of the public present at the meeting about the work or performance of the Council or the Council’s services relevant to the Radcliffe area.
Approximately 30 minutes will be set aside for Open Forum, if required.
Minutes:
The Chair invited questions, comments and representations from members of the public present at the meeting. Questions were asked and comments made on the issues detailed below. The Township Forum Co-ordinator undertook to obtain a reply to matters which could not be dealt with at the meeting:-
· A member of the public asked for an update on Radcliffe Baths.
Cllr Shori informed the meeting that the asbestos issue had been dealt with and of the structural issues relating to the replacement of steel beams. Any work required would take approximately 6 months and following the installation of the temporary pool at Broad Oak, this was being considered for Radcliffe. If a temporary pool was not a feasible option, then the Council would consider introducing incentives for Radcliffe residents to utilise facilities in town which could involve free parking and free leisure sessions. Colette Jones asked about the costs involved and why these costs could not be spent on brand new facilities for Radcliffe rather than spend considerable money on upgrading existing facilites. Cllr Shori gave an assurance that all options were currently being considered, of the importance to consider all short, medium and long term options and for the need to develop a workable contingency plan.
· Gill Stainthorpe asked for clarification regarding a recent report in Radcliffe Times relating to a survey being sent to parents in Radcliffe as part of a consultation process to assess views on local need/demand for a high school in Radcliffe. Gill raised concerns that this action would be too little too late and could raise false hopes for parents in the area.
Cllr Shori informed the meeting that Ivan Lewis, MP had met with a number of Primary School Headteachers in the area to identify the demand for a High School which had been confirmed following these meetings. Local schools were now looking at consulting parents via a survey on the desire for a High School in Radcliffe. Following a debate by members of the Township Forum, the Chair, Colin Jones concluded by asking members present to support all positive actions towards getting a High School for Radcliffe and asked those present to formally re-affirm their support for this.
· Colette Jones raised concerns regarding the closure of Hollins Lane for a number of months. Many elderly residents accessing the Health Centre could incur extra costs in terms of transport to/from the area. Colette
felt that pressure needed to be put on United Utilities to provide additional transport arrangements. Cllr Daisy Bailey commented that business continuity plans had not been finalised in relation to the Health Centre and asked if a letter could be sent on behalf of the Township Forum to the CCG requesting details of any special measures in place regarding works and closures.
· Colette Jones enquired about information for local residents regarding the implementation of the new registration of electors procedures. Christine Maksymowski, Township Co-ordinator confirmed that letters were being sent out in August to all residents in the Borough.
It was agreed:
1. That, members of Radcliffe Township Forum re-affirm their support for the provision of a High School in Radcliffe. This motion was moved by Cllr Isherwood and Seconded by Cllr Cummings.
2. That, the Township Co-ordinator sends a letter to the Clinical Commissioning Group requesting details about any special measures in place regarding works and closures affecting the Health Centre, Hollins Lane area.