Agenda item

The report of the Head of Stronger Communities brings to members’ attention an update of the work which the Communities Team is engaged in, based on priorities identified by the Community Committee. It also provides opportunities for further questioning, or to request a more detailed report on a particular issue.

(Report attached)

The report of the Head of Stronger Communities updated Members on the work which the Communities Team are engaged in, based on priorities identified by the Community Committee. It also provided opportunities for further questioning, or to request a more detailed report on a particular issue. This report also provided updates on some of the key activities between Community Committee meetings and functions delegated to Community Committees, Community Champions roles, community engagement, partnership and locality working.

Member’s attention was drawn to the following points:

·  Information on Gully Cleansing;

·  Paragraph 20 Al Crook will now continue as a Sergeant on Outer West, taking over responsibility for Farnley and Wortley until the start of next year;

·  Advice from Public Health in relation to the current lockdown restrictions. Members were requested to note the advice provided to ensure that all residents and communities stayed safe and that these messages were provided in a number of languages. There was also telephone numbers and web links provided in the report;

·  It was noted that since September, that there had been an increase in the on line audience with increased engagement across the Outer West Community.

Member’s discussions included:

·  Leaf clearance as an issue with the leaves being swept into drains and gullies. Members requested information on leaf clearance in the area;

·  Issues with quad bikes in the area although it was noted that the Police were aware;

·  Members praised the police and the emergency services for their work over the past few weeks in the outer west area, especially over bonfire night.

In attendance at the meeting were Zahid Butt and Neil Platts from Leedswatch.

The officers provided an update to the Community Committee on the work of the Leeds Watch team and in relation to CCTV. Members were informed of the following points:

·  This service was currently under review looking at resources and services provided. The review has been in consultation with Members as to what level of information is useful;

·  The information captured on CCTV is used to assist the police with inquiries;

·  There are approximately 300 CCTV cameras located across the city in public spaces, there are also a number of cameras positioned on tower blocks;

·  Leedswatch also have an outside patrol service who look after cemeteries, parks and are key holders for a number of businesses;

·  The service also includes out of hours noise service, out of hours repair and noise calls, and lift call out;

·  The service also controls entry into the city centre where necessary;

·  The review is due to be implemented at the end of March 2021. Response officers to be issued with tablets rather than using pen and paper. It is proposed that there will be 5 teams covering shifts for 24 hours 7 days a week;

·  Members  were invited to visit Leedswatch when they are able to;

·  Resources are adequate and the use of technology and reviewed processes will make the service fit for purpose;

·  Members were advised of moveable cameras which can be requested, it was noted that these are plugged into lamp posts similar to the ordinary CCTV cameras out of reach of the public;

·  It was noted that no direct contact can be made to access CCTV from individuals, requests must be through insurance companies and the police in relation to incidents. 

The Chair thanked the officers for their attendance and their update.

RESOLVED – To note the report.