Issue - meetings

(a)  That cabinet approves the proposed ‘Community Trigger’ threshold and mechanism for use in the Borough;

(b)  That Cabinet recommend that Council approves the proposed changes to the Scheme of Delegation; and

(c)  That Cabinet recommend that Council approves the proposed fixed penalty fees as set out in this report, with these fees to be approved by Council in the first instance and to delegate to Public Protection Committee any further alternations to these fees

Cabinet received a report providing an overview of the changes introduced by the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act (2014) provided new powers to local authorities and their partners, and placed a number of statutory obligations on councils when responding to incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The report also outlined the Borough Council’s role in delivering appropriate responses to these changes, in particular, Part 6 (the ‘Community Trigger’).

The report also sought approval to amend the Councils scheme of delegation to enable the relevant provisions of the Act to be enforced.

Also requested was approval of the fixed penalty fees for non-compliance with a Community Protection Notice and a Public Spaces Protection Order including a maximum fee and discounted fee for early payment.

A question was raised regarding the Public Spaces Protection Orders and whether these would have an impact on the Council’s current policy relating to Gypsy and Traveller Sites. The Leader confirmed that yes this existing policy would have to be revised and that it was crucial that all partners were aware of their responsibilities under the new legislation.

The Leader asked for confirmation that a system was in place that would ensure that when three complaints were received whether by the Council or a Partner organisation the 3 complaints trigger would be recognised. The Council would act as gatekeeper for this trigger but ultimate responsibility was with the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Resolved:

That Cabinet notes the contents of the report and

(a)  Approves the proposed ‘Community Trigger’ threshold and mechanism for use in the Borough;

(b)  To recommend that Council approves the proposed changes to the Scheme of Delegation; and

(c)  To recommend that Council approves the proposed fixed penalty fees as set out in this report, with these fees to be approved by Council in the first instance and to delegate to Public Protection Committee any further alternations to these fees