Issue - meetings

The Council welcomes contributions from members of the public. This meeting is open to the public, who may ask a question or make a statement. Written notice of questions or statements should be given to Yamina Rhouati of Democratic Services by 12.00 noon on 15 October.  Anyone wishing to ask a question or make a statement should contact the officer named above.

i) Statement from Ms Leila Gunning regarding the provision of home education service for children with difficulties and disabilities                         

ii) Question from Mr Michael Sprules, Chairperson RADAR

(Residents against Development Affecting Recreation Land) in respect of Item No. 7 – Wiltshire Housing Requirement

Declarations of interest

Cllr Allison Bucknell declared a personal interest in this item by virtue of being Chairman of the North Wiltshire and Devizes Portage Service.

The Leader also declared a personal interest in this item by virtue of having previously used the Portage Service albeit several years ago.

Mrs Gunning – Portage Service

Mrs Leila Gunning read out a statement expressing her concerns at the procurement process for the portage service and the impact she considered this could have on the service receiving local authority funding in 2011. She expressed concern that such changes could ultimately result in the service not being considered viable to run.  She sought an assurance the service would not be lost and that families who need the service would still be able to receive it.

Cllr Grundy, Cabinet member for Children’s Services responded by referring to the procurement process, the revision to the service to meet local needs and reducing the number of contracts from seven to four to provide better value for money. He appreciated the concerns and acknowledged that it was an important service to those who received it.

In the discussion which ensued, the Leader explained that she would be meeting the following day with Cllr Linda Conley to discuss the service and that she would take on board the issues raised at this meeting.

Mr Michael Sprules – Chairperson RADAR - Adopted Housing Provision for Chippenham

Mr Sprules, Chairperson of RADAR (Residents Against Development Affecting Recreation Land) presented a question in respect of the housing provision for Chippenham.

Cllr John Brady, Cabinet member for Economic Development, Planning and Housing provided a response. Mr Sprules thanked Cllr Brady for such a positive response.

The Leader explained that as usual, she would be happy to allow members of the public to speak at the start of each item if they wished to do so.