Agenda item

To receive and consider the attached report of the Head of Scrutiny and Member Development.

The Head of Scrutiny and Member Development submitted a report which invited Members to discuss a range of issues which were representative to the remit of the Board.

The Chair welcomed the following to the meeting:

• Councillor John Procter, Executive Member for Leisure
• Catherine Blanshard, Chief Libraries, Arts and Heritage Officer
• Martin Farrington, Acting Chief Recreation Officer

Wharfemeadows Park

A question was asked regarding when works at Wharfemeadows Park would be completed and whether there were any plans to carry out improvements to the side road off Farnley Road at the top of the park, which was reported as being in a state of disrepair.  In response, it was reported that £450k had been earmarked for improvements to Wharfemeadows Park.  The tennis courts had been refurbished and there were plans to consult young people through the Youth Service regarding the refurbishment of the skate park and a new youth shelter.  Further developments at the park included new and improved signage, refurbishment of the playground and landscaping works.  With regard to the road repairs, it was reported that this would be investigated and Members advised of the outcome.

Chevin Forest Park

A Member queried whether Parks and Countrysides could promote the use of Chevin Forest Park for healthy exercise.  It was reported that the use of parks for exercise was encouraged in general.

Roundhay Mansion

A number of Members expressed concern regarding the length of time since Roundhay Mansion was open to provide catering facilities.  It was reported that delays had partly been encountered due to previous considerations for a possible change in the use of the mansion building.  There were also extensive works to be carried out to the interior.  Members agreed to arrange a site visit to the building.

Sports Trust

Councillor Procter was asked how and when would be the best time for scrutiny involvement into the Sports Trust proposals.  It was reported that a draft agreement was being developed.  It was further reported that should a Sports Trust be established, it was this agreement that would detail the governance arrangements, including the relationship with the City Council.  Given the importance of such an agreement, Councillor Procter stated that he would welcome the Board’s input in this regard and while there were still some unresolved issues, it was agreed that the Board would be given the opportunity to examine the proposals at the earliest possible opportunity in the New Year

Leeds City Museum

Councillor Procter was reminded of the Board’s previous concerns regarding the level of expenditure on anti-skateboarding measures in general, including outside the City Museum:  This included the Board’s suggestion that more should be done to enforce existing bye laws.  Councillor Procter welcomed the Board’s comments and agreed there was a need to enforce existing bye laws.  Councillor Procter further staed that, while anti-skateboarding measures were also necessary to prevent damage, he would investigate this issue further and advice the Board of the outcome.

RESOLVED –

(1)  That the report be noted.

(2)  That a site visit for Board Members to Roundhay Mansion be arranged.

(Councillor Jennings joined the meeting during the discussion of this item)