Issue - meetings

Following scrutiny, the recommendation was supported to Cabinet.

James M. Davies, Neighbourhood Services Manager explained that this report follows up on the initial report from late 2024, which initiated a four-month trial period. Members were advised that the report presents feedback from stakeholders, staff, and community safety partnership meetings held at the start and end of the trial. Members were advised that the next step is to proceed with a full consultation process, expected to last 6 to 8 weeks, starting in a few weeks.

The chair thanked officers and cabinet members for considering the feedback from the first report. He noted that members had suggested including a consultation process during the trial but agreed that conducting a proper consultation now is a better option. He felt members appreciated this approach.

Members asked if the cost of repairing damage to parks would outweigh the savings from locking them? If parks are being damaged, is locking them the best solution?

Officers clarified that the initiative wasn't intended as a cost-saving measure, despite identifying a £5000 saving. The main reason for the initiative was the frequent failure of lock-in operations due to the nature of the role and difficulties encountered with people staying in the parks overnight. This prompted the consideration of the initiative.

Officers advised that they received feedback indicating that locking the parks wasn't beneficial. Officers plan to address issues in parks by implementing mitigation measures rather than locking gates. This will allow officers to reallocate resources to improve playground maintenance and inspections during regular working hours. Any savings could be offset by the cost of additional measures like bollards.

Members inquired whether reassigning mobile rangers to play areas represents a reduction in staff. They also asked if, in case of vandalism issues would there be other personnel available to lock gates if the mobile ranger positions are eliminated.

Officers clarified that there is no reduction in staff. The goal is to reallocate resources to improve playground inspections and maintenance, providing better value for money. The mobile ranger is not currently on call to handle vandalism or similar issues, and this will not change if the decision is made permanent following the consultation.

Members were advised that supervisors manage the different zones across the borough, and this will continue. There is also an on-call rota to address safety issues during weekends and evenings.

Members asked if there will still be personnel available to lock parks in the future if needed.

Officers explained that they need to understand the necessity of locking parks. During the four-month trial, over 50% of feedback concerned Victoria Gardens, which has unique challenges due to its proximity to the town centre and evening activities. The police noted an impact when gates were previously installed. Unlike most parks, Victoria Gardens is manned during the day.

Members were advised that currently, there is no impact on staffing as staff are already working during the gate closing hours. The consultation may lead to a recommendation to exclude Victoria Gardens from the initiative due to its unique circumstances.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4