Agenda

To issue a welcome to those present, and to confirm if there are any apologies for absence.

Members will be asked to declare any interests they may have in the business to be discussed.

Bharti Mistry asks:

1. We propose that the Council establish User Community Groups at Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, Rushey Mead Recreation Centre, and the two libraries. These partnerships would help identify income-generation opportunities for each centre and assess the evolving needs of the local communities and how best to meet them.
2. We ask that the Council does not revisit the CAT (Community Asset Transfer) issue regarding Rushey Mead and Belgrave community centres and libraries. Instead, we urge the Council to commit to working in partnership with users, residents, and the wider communities of Rushey Mead and Belgrave.
3. Does the Council have its own proposals to improve the financial sustainability of sites that remain Council-run, including any potential impact on staffing? For example, measures to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and increase usage of the centres and libraries?
4. Aside from the CAT policy, has the Council considered any other models for operating neighbourhood services (community centres and libraries) across the city?
5. Will the Council commit to reviewing the current arrangements and future direction for Belgrave and Rushey Mead? We seek assurance of strong frontline service delivery, improved outreach, and increased activity—particularly for diverse communities where English is not the first language, as well as for elderly residents, young people, disabled users, and those experiencing loneliness and isolation.
6. Can we clarify what plans are in place for development at Rushey Mead library, including potential use of the capital budget?

Mala Shah asks:

1.    How much capital does LCC have (please provide breakdown of how much allocated and how much is in reserve)?

2.    Please would the council & the Assistant City Mayor for Health, Culture, Libraries and Community Centres accept a thank you for the decision relating to neighbourhood services particularly for those in Rushey Mead & Belgrave;

With the new changes now being proposed, how much saving is the council looking to make at

A.       Rushey Mead library

B.       Rushey Mead recreation centre

C.       Belgrave library

D.       Belgrave neighbourhood centre

3.If the council is looking to make savings at Rushey Mead recreation centre, Rushey Mead library, Belgrave library and Belgrave neighbourhood centre, please do provide a breakdown of where the currents savings are coming from?

Nizamuddin Patel asks:

1. Following the consultation, it is noted that in Netherhall either the neighbourhood centre or the Armadale centre (pending survey) will be considered for CAT.

Is there a reason why both buildings can't be considered for CAT?

2. Can a timeframe be given as to how soon a condition survey can be completed and published of the Armadale Centre?

The Director of Neighbourhood and Environmental Services submits a report providing an update on the findings of the recent public consultation (April 2025 – June 2025) and provide commission members with an update on the future recommended delivery model for Libraries and Community Centres.