Major Joy Davidson led the Council in prayer.

The Chairman to make any announcements or communications.

The Chairman announced that Councillor Ray Berry was out of hopsital and wished him a speedy recovery.

At the discretion of the Chairman, to receive any questions, statements or deputations from members of the public in accordance with the Public Participation Procedure as set out in Annex 1 of part A4 of the Constitution.

One application had been received under Procedure Rule No. CM9 to speak during the fifteen minute question and statement period at the beginning of the meeting. 

Question/Statement from Mr David Croft in relation to Licensed premises at Sandy known as Island Bar and Restaurant

Mr Croft in his question to Council problems local residents were encountering with licensed premises in Sandy  known as the Island Bar and Restaurant.  He explained that since moving into the area there had been a significant change of use of the premises from a quiet wine bar into a pub which was licensed till 1.00am. He referred to noise outside the pub at night, associated with drinking and smoking, which was particularly bad on a Friday and Saturday evening when there could be up to 100 people. He explained it was not unusual for his children to be woken up 4 or 5 times a night from the noise. He concluded by questioning why residents had not had the chance to object to a change of use of the premises and what was the Council doing to protect the interests of residents in the future.

Response by Councillor D McVicar, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities  

Councillor D McVicar thanked Mr Croft for his question.  He explained that under the terms of the Licensing Act there had been no change of use from the license granted in 2008 as it was still licensed premises, although there may have been a variation of the license to extend the opening hours and also include regulated entertainment. There was no right, however, for the premises to be causing a nuisance and such issues were taken seriously  by the Council.  Separate complaints were being investigated by the Sustainable Communities Directorate and the Police were also investigating allegations made by members of the public.  Councillor McVicar explained that he could not comment on ongoing investigations but gave assurance that the Council takes such complaints seriously and would take action appropriate to the outcome. 

To confirm the appointment of the Chief Executive.  (Report to Follow)

The Council had for consideration a report from the Leader of the Council/Chairman of Appointments Sub-Committee seeking approval to the appointment of a Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service for Central Bedfordshire Council, in accordance with the recommendation of the Appointment Sub-Committee.

The Leader of the Council in presenting her report referred to the rigorous interview and selection process that led to the Appointments Sub Committee unanimously recommending the appointment of Mr Richard Carr, the current Chief Executive of Wolverhampton City Council.  

RESOLVED:

That Mr Richard Carr, currently Chief Executive of Wolverhampton City Council be appointed Chief Executive (Head of Paid Service) of Central Bedfordshire Council.