The Executive Leader Councillor S J Conboy to address the Council on behalf of the Joint Administration on the State of the District.
The Chair will invite the Leaders of the Opposition to respond to the address.
Time Allocation: 20 minutes
Minutes:
The Chair invited the Executive Leader, Councillor S J Conboy to address the Council on the State of the District and to open the debate which was scheduled to follow.
Councillor Conboy opened her address by reflecting on the Council’s strong performance and progress during the current administration, noting that difficult but necessary decisions had been taken to address significant financial challenges inherited four years ago. It was reported that these decisions had contributed to improved service delivery, stronger financial stability and better outcomes for residents.
Members were advised of a number of key achievements, including a substantial reduction in the planning application backlog, improved performance against planning determination targets, reliable waste collection services, increased Council tax support for residents, growth in leisure and active lifestyles participation, homelessness prevention outcomes, significant improvements in broadband and 5G coverage, delivery of affordable housing, and progress in implementing the Council’s climate programme.
The Council’s new Corporate Plan was presented as building on this progress through three priorities: improving quality of life; creating a better Huntingdonshire for the future; and delivering core services effectively. The importance of early intervention, health and wellbeing initiatives, leisure provision and the proposed Huntingdon Sport and Health Hub was emphasised as part of the Council’s commitment to supporting stronger communities.
Members noted the Council’s continued focus on supporting businesses, strengthening market towns, attracting investment and ensuring Huntingdonshire benefits from opportunities associated with the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor. It was stressed that effective planning for growth was essential to ensure the provision of homes, jobs, transport infrastructure, education, healthcare and green spaces.
The Leader also reaffirmed the importance of delivering high-quality core services, including waste collection, planning, environmental maintenance, customer support and sound financial management, which underpinned public confidence in the Council.
Reference was made to ongoing Local Government Reorganisation and the uncertainty surrounding the Government’s preferred option. Members were advised that, regardless of the outcome, the Council’s priority would remain maintaining service delivery, supporting staff, protecting financial stability and ensuring a strong transition to any future unitary authority arrangements.
In closing, the Leader reflected on the collective efforts of Councillors and Officers over the past four years, acknowledging that while challenges remained, the Council was in a stronger financial and operational position, and remained committed to serving the residents of Huntingdonshire and leaving the authority in a stronger position for the future.
The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor R Martin, thanked the Executive Leader for her leadership of the Council and acknowledged the positive working relationships that existed across political groups despite differing viewpoints. Appreciation was also expressed to Council Officers and staff for their professionalism and commitment in delivering services and supporting the Council’s work.
Members were assured of the Opposition Group’s support for officers and staff as the Council approached Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), recognising the uncertainty this process may create. A commitment was given to ensuring officers had the resources and support required to maximise future opportunities within any successor authority arrangements.
Councillor R Martin challenged the characterisation of the Council’s financial position four years ago, noting that significant sums had subsequently been added to reserves and arguing that this demonstrated a stronger financial position than suggested. Nevertheless, it was acknowledged that the Council remained a well-run authority and that services continued to be delivered effectively.
Reference was made to the importance of focusing on the future, particularly in light of the Government’s forthcoming decision on LGR. Members were reminded of the need to provide reassurance to residents that the Council will continue to deliver services, represent local interests and maintain high standards regardless of any future governance changes.
Councillor R Martin highlighted several strategic opportunities for Huntingdonshire, including Project Fairfax and the development of the geospatial technology sector associated with RAF Wyton. The significant contribution of Officers and the Economic Development Team to advancing these initiatives was recognised, and it was noted that the projects enjoyed cross-party and cross-government support. Members were advised that these opportunities had the potential to attract investment, create jobs and support long-term economic growth in the area.
The potential economic benefits arising from the proposed Universal Studios development in Bedfordshire were also highlighted. It was suggested that Huntingdonshire should seek to maximise opportunities associated with the scheme, including improved public transport links and access to employment opportunities for local residents.
In closing, Councillor R Martin reaffirmed a commitment to constructive cross-party working in the interests of Huntingdonshire and expressed pride in serving the Council and its residents.