In the absence of the Leader (Councillor Peter Mullineaux), Councillor Colin Clark (Deputy Leader) answered questions and enquiries.

In response to Councillor David Howarth’s concerning the alleged in appropriate use of social media and behaviour of members, the Deputy Leader stated that if there was any such evidence there was an existing procedure in place to deal with any possible issues of misconduct.

Two representatives from the Leyland Sports Association Bowling Club referred to the current situation whereby local bowlers were not able to access the bowling greens. Councillor Colin Clark was asked if the Council could assist in re-gaining access to the bowling greens and, if there was a re-development of the site whether it would be possible through the planning process for the Council to include in any potential planning permission a requirement that provision be made for bowling at the site.  The Deputy Leader expressed the Council’s empathy with the bowling club and its position.  However, as the Council was not a landowner at this location, its powers were limited. That said the Council aimed to protect and improve leisure facilities and it would look further into this matter and help were it could and support the club’s endeavours to retain the bowling facilities.  In respect of planning and the possible re-development of the site, Councillor Colin Clark agreed that he and Councillor Cliff Hughes (Cabinet member for Strategic Planning and Housing) were happy to meet with representatives of the club.   

The following written question has been received from Councillor Claire Hamilton:

“Please could the Leader confirm his statement made at the Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday 21st June that South Ribble residents who opt out of using their brown bin and dispose garden waste in their grey bin will not be charged?”

(a)          Written question submitted by Councillor Claire Hamilton:

“Please could the Leader confirm his statement made at the Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday 21st June that South Ribble residents who opt out of using their brown bin and dispose garden waste in their grey bin will not be charged?”

Councillor Peter Mullineaux (Leader of the Council) confirmed that the statement was correct.

(b)          Councillor Sue Jones referred to the last meeting of the Cabinet which

had been very hot without water or tables and asked that the room layout be re-considered?

The Leader stated he did not want members in discomfort and agreed that it would be looked at.

(c)          A member of the public asked if the Leader agreed that if the position of an elected Mayor was to be introduced for Lancashire this should not be imposed but selected by referendum?

The Leader was not aware of any such proposal and if the regulations required a referendum, residents would need to be consulted.