Last night was the regular meeting of the Council’s Executive Committe. This is the Committee which brings together the eight Executive Members of the ruling Labour Group in Bury, together with the two opposition group leaders as ‘non-portfolio’ members.

This year there is a policy of touring the Borough for Executive Committee meetings, so last night we were at Radcliffe Civic Hall. (Next time its in Prestwich…)

Homeless Hostel Relocation
Most of the members of the public had come because they were concerned about what turned out to be the most controversial report for decision – a proposal to consult on closing a hostel that the Council runs for short term accommodation of homeless people, called ‘South View’ in East Bury, and replacing it with some supported housing provision in the Chapelfield estate in Radcliffe.

Some people were upset because of the lack of consultation about closing South View, but most seem concerned about moving this facility into Chapelfield – local people had learned about this from an article in the Bury Times, which is hardly a good way of consulting local people.

A number of Executive members, including me, asked for assurances that the Council would really involve residents in the discussion from on, and that we receive full assurances that this has happened.

Other Issues
Other issues were less controversial:
– a ‘refresh’ of the Bury PLan – which sets out the core priorities for the authority
– a refresh of the Affordable Housing Strategy, which I suspect will only amount in something if the Council chooses to invest more money in this area
– the final sign off of the operating framework for the new Township Forums.

Any questions please ask! The papers can be viewed here.