Agenda and draft minutes

To receive declarations of interest from Members on items contained within this agenda.

There were no declarations of interest stated.

A minute’s silence was held for former Councillor and Mayor, Colin Brooks who had recently passed away.

The Leader of the Council led the tributes stating that Colin had been a member of the Council  from 1995 to 1999 and 2002 to 2006, serving as Mayor between 2005 and 2006.  He had served on several committees during his terms.  Heartfelt condolences were sent to Sheila and the family.

Councillor Gill Williams stated that Colin had been very proud to have been elected as Mayor.   He represented the Borough with dignity and understanding.  Colin worked with Councillors and officers to create the Lyme Valley Park.

Watch the tributes here

This Extraordinary Meeting had been called in respect of conferring honorary Freedom of the Borough upon Sir Ian Dudson KCVO CBE.

The Leader, Councillor Simon Tagg moved the recommendation, stating that he was pleased to propose this.  Sir Ian had recently retired after nearly a decade of distinguished service.  He had deep roots in local heritage with his family business and his leadership in industry and civic life was a great credit to him.   As Lord Lieutenant he represented the Crown in Staffordshire  with dignity and dedication.  His contribution spanned education, the voluntary sector and cultural heritage.  Sir Ian had showed unwavering commitment to the Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, making him an outstanding ambassador.

Councillor Dave Jones stated that it was an honour to second the recommendation and stated that throughout his long connection to the Borough, Sir Ian had served for a significant period of time as pro-Chancellor and Chair of Keele University Council and the University owed him a great debt.

Resolved:    That the Council in exercise of their powers under Section

                    249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972 and being desirous of

expressing its admiration and appreciation of the long and continuing service given by Sir Ian Dudson KCVO CBE to the Borough and his outstanding contribution to civic life of the Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme and the County of Staffordshire and as a mark of esteem does confer upon him the honorary Freedom of the Borough.

Watch the debate here