During yesterday's Full Council meeting, councillors unanimously backed several key initiatives. A motion proposed by Cllr David Levien called for enhanced public awareness regarding the regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters, acknowledging the safety risks posed by illegal and modified vehicles. In response, the council committed to developing a public education campaign and tasked its Trading Standards team with engaging retailers on their responsibilities. The Public Health service will collaborate with NHS partners to analyse injury data, and the Chief Executive will contact local MPs to advocate for stronger national enforcement powers against non-compliant vehicles.
Cllr Ros Hathorn's motion highlighted the critical need for improved water infrastructure, emphasising its importance for economic growth, meeting Government housing targets, and minimising disruption for residents. Consequently, the council has agreed to communicate with the Government and regulators to seek reforms in infrastructure processes and better coordination of utility works. Water companies will also be invited to work more closely with the council on managing highway impacts, addressing leaks, and planning infrastructure.
The future of adult social care was addressed in a motion by Cllr Richard Howitt, which urged greater local involvement in the national Casey Commission's 'Big Conversation on Care' and promoted cross-party collaboration on social care reform. The Adults and Health Committee is set to consider feedback and findings related to this motion.
A motion from Cllr Jonny Edge, supporting a broader 'Nurturing Cambridgeshire' approach, was also approved. This will lead to the Strategy, Resources and Performance Committee exploring how nurturing, relationship-based, and trauma-informed methods can be further integrated into the council’s business planning and budget setting.
Concerns regarding Stonea Bridge's history of vehicle strikes prompted a motion from Cllr Chris Thornhill, advocating for a more proactive road safety strategy. The council agreed to request that Vision Zero partners consider integrating a risk-based assessment framework into future updates of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Road Safety Strategy.
The Full Council meeting was live-streamed and is available to watch back on the council's YouTube channel. Meeting documents are accessible on the council's website.
