Agenda and minutes

The Scrutiny Committee noted the minutes.

The Committee noted the forward work programme.

The Committee selected the following Cabinet Board items for Scrutiny:

3.1    Japanese Knotweed

Members considered a report that highlighted the Council’s policy and procedures in relation to Japanese knotweed.

Members asked whether there was an update in relation to the trial of introducing a “superbug” that would kill the knotweed. Officers stated that the trial in other parts of South Wales had failed over the winter and was not a viable option.

Officers were asked if the policy would mean the Council would continue to give advice if the problem was found on private land or would it absolve all responsibility. It was confirmed that the Council will continue to offer advice but it would remain the responsibility of the land owner/complainant to pursue.

Members asked whether there was a specific issue in relation to communication between Network Rail and Natural Resources Wales. Officers confirmed that there could be a species control put agreement in place between the organisations but currently there was not. Members continued and asked whether there was a process in place to put pressure on Natural Resources Wales and officers confirmed that the Council could write to them to highlight their concerns.

Members requested data on where the locations of Japanese knotweed are within the County Borough and officers agreed that as this was being developed this could be shared with Members in the future.

Officers stated that in relation to private landlords the Council does not plan on visiting but a report will be presented to the next meeting which will identify potential income generation opportunities.

Members asked whether there are private companies in existence that offer this service. Officers stated that there are companies in existence..

Following scrutiny the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.

3.2    Proposed No Waiting, Loading or Unloading to the rear of 21-41 Station Road, Port Talbot.

Members were advised that the report had been written following complaints from local businesses.

It was suggested that a possible alternative may be to revise the traffic orders on Station Road itself. Officers advised that orders on Station Road were to be revised this year to accommodate a taxi rank following dialog between the local members and taxi fraternity in Port Talbot and an additional loading area could not be accommodated without the loss of further car parking on street.

Following scrutiny the Committee agreed to allow the Cabinet Board to take the relevant decision.

The Committee selected the following private Cabinet Board items for scrutiny

5.1 Extension of Frameworks and Framework Agreements for the Occasional Hire of Operative Plant and for the Occasional Hire of 180 Back Hoe Loader

Members asked whether this was the most cost effective option or would the purchase of a machine be more cost effective. Officers stated that they would undertake an analysis and report back to the Member.

Following scrutiny the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.