Decision details

The Director of Strategy and Resources submitted a report which sought approval for the installation of panels within the Civic Hall Council Chamber commemorating six inspirational women from the city’s past. The report outlined the outcomes from the consultation undertaken on this proposal and also recommended that consideration be given to how more women could be recognised in the future, and that moving forward such recognition be increasingly reflective of the city’s diversity.

The names proposed to be initially installed on the plaques in order recognise their contributions to the city were:

-  The Barnbow Lasses;

-  Leonora Cohen OBE;

-  Gertrude Paul;

-  Alice Bacon CBE;

-  Beryl Burton OBE; and

-  Ivy Benson.

In presenting the report, the Executive Member thanked all Members of Council for the cross-party support for, and engagement in the development of the proposals. Thanks was also extended to all officers involved, with specific reference to Tom Riordan, outgoing Chief Executive, for their roles in this initiative.

The importance of recognising the inspirational women of Leeds in this way was highlighted, together with the overwhelmingly positive response to the public consultation which had been received. The Board confirmed its support for the proposals and welcomed that further work would be undertaken on a cross-party basis so that the role of more inspirational women could be recognised moving forward, in order to further reflect the diversity of the city, and which it was hoped would prove to be inspirational to future generations.  

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the results of the consultation undertaken, as detailed within the submitted report and appendix 1, be noted;

(b)  That the proposals within the submitted report for plaques to be installed within the Civic Hall Council Chamber, be approved, subject to listed planning consent being received;

(c)  That the proposals within the submitted report for further work to be undertaken in order to recognise further inspirational women in future years, be approved, with approval also being given for this recognition to be increasingly reflective of the diverse nature of the city.