Issue - meetings

The Board received a report from the Executive Director - Environment and Regeneration, which provided an update on the progress in the Community Safety and Protection Division.  The report highlighted some key matters for the Board to note, that would progress over the next 12 months, in the following areas: 

• Enforcement and CCTV – a report would be presented to the Executive Board in July and a piece of work was planned to invest in this area of work; the Board would receive further updates throughout the year;

·       Emergency Planning - the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 (also known as Martyn’s Law) received Royal Ascent on 3 April 2025.  The regulator had been confirmed as the Security Industry Authority (SIA).  A Halton working group had been set up to scrutinise the guidance to ensure the Council was compliant; and

• Devolution Arrangements – arrangements were progressing in Cheshire and Warrington and the anticipated implementation of a Mayor and Combined Authority was May 2026.  A piece of work was being undertaken to consider a pan-Cheshire Community Safety Partnership in a devolved administration.  The Board would be updated throughout the year on arrangements and how progress would impact on Halton.

Following discussions, some additional information was noted:

·       Requests for CCTV in hotspot areas would addressed outside of the meeting;

·       Issues with electric bikes should be reported to the Police; and

·       Concerns were raised about inappropriate comments on social media relating to various issues such asylum seekers and refugees and the  High Court’s ruling on the definition of a “woman”, under the Equality Act 2010.  These were acknowledged, however, Members were reminded that it was not the Council’s role to respond to comments on social media.

RESOLVED:  That the report be noted.