Agenda item

Members considered a progress report on the provision of Members Facilities within Port Talbot Civic Centre and Neath Civic Centre.

Officers advised that work would commence in the Members room in Port Talbot Civic Centre shortly after 20 March 2017.

Members asked whether the new seats that had been ordered were faux leather or fabric and it was confirmed that they were fabric.

In addition, Members stated that they welcomed  the works being undertaken to improve the audio and visual facilities in Neath Civic Centre.

Members questioned whether there was a possibility of introducing some sort of tea and coffee vending facility within the Members room in Port Talbot Civic Centre particularly given the reduced opening hours of the on site coffee shop. It was agreed that quotes would be obtained for the purchase or the lease of such a facility.

Members also noted that the refrigerator currently in the Members room was old and unhygienic. Officers confirmed that the item would  be replaced as part of the refurbishment programme and cleaning of the new fridge will be arranged on a weekly basis.

Members noted that whilst not actually a facility there is a need to ensure that presentations are readable when shown on projectors and paper copies. It was agreed that this would be looked at by officers to ensure some consistency.

Members asked could they be kept updated on the progress in relation to the refurbishment of the opposition group rooms. Officers confirmed that this would be the case but stressed that they may like to the opportunity to have their own purge on what is currently stored within the office areas.

Members asked for a point of clarity on why no refreshments were allowed in the Chamber. It was confirmed that this was a historic decision and was in relation to the furniture and desk finishings. Officers stated that they would look at allowing liquid refreshments to be consumed.

Resolved:

·         That Officers obtain quotes for the provision of tea/coffee facilities for the Members room in Port Talbot Civic Centre.

·         That work is undertaken to review the possibility of basic guidance being circulated to encourage officers to prepare and present presentations which are clear,concise and free of abbreviations and jargon to aid understanding of Members.