Issue - meetings

Matter for Decision:  

The report reviewed the profile of street based anti-social behaviour in Cambridge City; the current approach to support and enforcement; and suggested areas where policy and practice should be reviewed.

The Leader and Executive Councillor for Housing were jointly asked to note of the review of street-based anti-social behaviour, the services and enforcement measures in place to address problematic behaviour, and to agree to hold three multi-agency workshops.

Decision of the Leader and the Executive Councillor for Housing:

The Leader and the Executive Councillor for Housing jointly:

        i.      Noted the review of street-based anti-social behaviour and the services and enforcement measures in place to address problematic behaviour;

      ii.      Agreed to hold three multi-agency workshops, open to all Cambridge City Councillors, on the topic areas proposed in section 5 of the officer’s report.

Reason for the Decision:

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations:

The Committee received a report from the Director of Customer and Community Services regarding the Review of Street-life Anti-social Behaviour.

Members questioned why the overall numbers of rough sleepers remained consistent while the profile had shifted towards higher numbers with a local connection. The Director of Customer and Community Services stated the reasons behind this were complex and would be further investigated.

Concerns were raised over the safety of rough sleepers. Officers reported that violent incidents were few and appeared to be opportunistic rather that targeted. The Police were praised for the way they handled such incidents.

Daytime indoor provision and wet centres were discussed. Concerns were raised about what such provision would achieve and members were not supportive of an approach that would merely “tidy up” the streets. Members agreed that any solutions must be outcome focused. Members requested comparative national data to be included in future reports.

Improved use of licensing powers was suggested as a way of resolving some of the problems associated with street-life.  Cumulative Impact Zone powers had achieved some results. It was further suggested that members of the public were not aware of the powers to request a review of a premises license. Councillor Bick confirmed that the licensing dimension would be covered in the workshops.

The Committee resolved unanimously to endorse the recommendations.

Both the Leader and Executive Councillor Housing approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of interest declared by the Executive Councillor (and any dispensations granted)

Not applicable.