To receive any announcements from the Leader.
Minutes:
The Leader made the following announcements:
“Today is a very sad and shocking day as we woke up to the news that Vladimir Putin has brought war back to Europe on what has been described as a catastrophe for our continent. At this time I would like to express my deepest empathy for the people of Ukraine. This Borough stands in solidarity with those who will be all impacted by this act of aggression.
Yesterday a by-election was held in Stanwell North and on behalf of this authority I would like to officially welcome Councillor Jon Button to Spelthorne Borough Council.
The Prime Minister announced earlier this week that all Covid restrictions will be lifted and from today, 24 February, you will not be legally required to self-isolate if you test positive for COVID-19. I ask that we all make sensible choices to minimise the risk to those most vulnerable in the community. As we emerge from the pandemic, I want to, once again, place on record my admiration for the many in of our community who volunteered to support others and Officers in this authority who have been serving Spelthorne diligently during the pandemic.
To reflect on the last 2 years Spelthorne will be creating a long-lasting memorial in the Borough and we are consulting with residents about how best to commemorate the difficulties our community has faced. We want the memorial to be resident-led and are keen to hear from anyone with ideas and suggestions on a fitting tribute. Please email news@spelthorne.gov.uk
If you are a business based in Spelthorne there are still a number of grant funded support services available – including website provision, free digital media training and free business coaching. If you would like to take advantage of these services please get in touch with our Economic Development Team.
The Borough will benefit from a multimillion-pound contract between Amazon Prime Video and Shepperton Studios for exclusive use of new production facilities. Shepperton Studios have launched a £500,000 community fund to support local individuals, non-profit and voluntary organisations. The fund will be distributed over ten years and will benefit the Shepperton area and wider borough of Spelthorne.
I would like to make Members and Residents aware of two consultations being undertaken by Surrey County Council.
Firstly the latest draft of their long-term vision for the county, known as the 2050 Place Ambition.
Secondly the County are also undertaking a consultation in relation to their preparation of a new Minerals and Waste Local Plan (MWLP) for Surrey. Details of both are on our consultation webpage.
Spelthorne Council continues to welcome applications for funding through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) for local projects and improvements and the 31 March deadline is fast approaching. Examples of the types of projects Local CIL can be used for are community centre improvements, community notice boards, bike shelters and local signage.
And finally, 2022 is the Queen's Platinum Jubilee year and, as of 6 February 2022 Her Majesty the Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of service to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. On behalf of the Council, I would like to extend my congratulations to Her Majesty and wish her well in her recovery from Covid. At the special bank holiday in June there will be lots of events in Spelthorne, and residents should check our website for more details, including advice on street party applications.”