Agenda and minutes

Apologies were received from Councillors Mrs Bacon, Mrs Constable, Drinkwater, Miss Fisher and Miss Shepherd.

There were no declarations of interest.

The minutes of the meeting held on 5^th July 2018, as printed and circulated, were taken as read, approved and signed by the Chairman.

The work programme was considered and it was agreed to remove the item on Environmental Health fees and charges, as this could be done under delegated powers.

The Committee received a report seeking approval to consult on the draft statement of principles 2019- 2022. It was reported that there was no major changes in the legislation, however it was a requirement to review the statement every 3 years.

There was some concern regarding gambling addiction and the effects this has on families, however it was recognised that was not many premises within the District. It was questioned how gambling policy contributed to the Strategic Plan priority of the vibrant and prosperous economy and it was reported that regulation helped ensure a level playing field for business and prevented illegal or non-compliant operations undercutting compliant businesses.

RESOLVED: 1)   That the consultation for the draft statement of principles be

                            approved.

                      2)  That any responses to the consultation be considered by the   Chairman of Regulatory and Licensing Committee together with the Head of Regulatory Services, Housing and Wellbeing, before submitting to full Council for adoption.

The Committee received a report seeking approval for consultation to begin on the draft Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy. It was reported that presently there was a number of guidance notes and conditions, this would amalgamate them all into one overarching policy.

It was noted that the policy would bring in a penalty point scheme, and the Committee were supportive of this as it would raise standards, whilst providing a consistent approach to unacceptable conduct. Whilst still being proportionate to the nature of the offence.

Members asked if training was given to drivers on assisting disabled passengers and it was reported that there was a number of avenues that could be explored and it would be investigated on the best way of how to deliver this.

It was asked whether driver’s mental health was taken into consideration, when applying for their licence and it was reported that all drivers must have a medical assessment every 3 years or more frequently if specified by the medical practitioner or if officers had concerns.

RESOLVED:  1)  That the consultation for the draft Hackney Carriage and Private       Hire Licencing Policy be approved.

                2)  That following the consultation the draft policy together with any significant comments received be brought back to the committee.

           3)  That the Chairman of Regulatory and Licensing Committee with the  Head of Regulatory Services, Housing and Wellbeing be delegated to make any minor amendments to the Policy.

The Committee received a report introducing the recent changes to houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licencing and the updated guidance notes to landlords on these standards.

It was asked how Officers knew of these HMO’s within the District to ensure these standards were upheld. It was reported through intelligence gathering either by neighbours or residents of such properties. It was reported that some Landlords have already been proactive and submitted applications. It was suggested that Parish Councils may help in identifying these properties and it was agreed to send these new standards with further information to Parish Clerks.

RESOLVED: That the draft houses in Multiple Occupation Amenity Standards were agreed.