In accordance with Paragraphs 6.24 and 6.25 of the Area Committee Procedure Rules, at the discretion of the Chair a period of up to 10 minutes may be allocated at each ordinary meeting for members of the public to make representations or to ask questions on matters within the terms of reference of the Area Committee. This period of time may be extended at the discretion of the Chair. No member of the public shall speak for more than three minutes in the Open Forum, except by permission of the Chair.
Minutes:
In accordance with paragraph 6.24 and 6.25 of the Area Committee Procedure Rules, the Chair allowed members of the public to make representations or ask questions on matters within the terms of reference of the Area Committee:-
a) Council’s Policy regarding gritting on pavements
David Salinger, a local resident referred to the recent adverse weather conditions and enquired on the Council’s policy regarding gritting on pavements in view of the dangers to the public, especially for those with specific mobility problems.
The Chair responded and confirmed that it was Council policy to grit primary road networks in the first instance.
Councillor B Atha referred a recent article in the Yorkshire Evening Post which reported that a specific road/pavement in Yeadon had been treated by the Council.
Councillor J Monaghan reminded the meeting that residents had a right to request the provision of a grit bin in problem areas.
In concluding, it was agreed to request the Acting West North West Area Manager to seek clarification from Highways and to respond directly to Mr Salinger on the issues raised.
b) Protected Playing Pitches at the Leeds Girls High School
Sue Buckle, South Headingley Community Association enquired on the latest position with regards to the Council purchasing the protected playing pitches at the Leeds Girls High School.
Discussion ensued on the options available for purchase. The Committee noted that despite the application having been recently withdrawn, there was still a need for further discussions to be undertaken by Members and relevant officers on issues relating to the playing pitches and sports centre.
c) Holes dug on Woodhouse Moor
Mercia Southon, North Hyde Park Neighbourhood Association raised her concerns as to why workmen were digging test holes on the Monument Moor section of Woodhouse Moor and enquired if the Council were aware of any works being undertaken in the area.
Chris Dickinson, West North West Area Management responded and agreed to investigate this matter further with Parks and Countryside and report back the outcome to Ms Southon.
d) Hyde Park and Woodhouse Forum
A local resident enquired why the Hyde Park and Woodhouse Forum had not met since July 2009.
Chris Dickinson, West North West Area Management responded and confirmed that ultimately it was the discretion of ward members to decide when forum meetings would be held, as and when needed, and what should be included on the agenda.
Councillor P Ewens requested West North West Area Management to schedule a Hyde Park and Woodhouse Forum with the theme of the agenda being the environment i.e. greenspace issues.
e) The Council’s Protocol in relation to tarmacing paths
Sue Buckle, South Headingley Community Association enquired on the Council’s protocol in relation to tarmacing paths and whether Parks and Countryside consulted residents on the proposed work.
Chris Dickinson, West North West Area Management responded and agreed to consult Parks and Countryside on this issue with a report back to Ms Buckle on the protocol.
(Councillor J Illingworth joined the meeting at 4.25pm during consideration of the item relating to the protected playing pitches at the Leeds Girls High School)