First Community Live event held in Grimsby Town Hall

FROM potholes, to selective licensing, roadworks, flowers, and illegal parking – just a few of the topics discussed at North East Lincolnshire Council’s first Cabinet Community Live event.

More than 70 residents arrived at Grimsby Town Hall this week for the two-hour question and answer session held by Leader, Cllr Oliver Freeston and members of his Cabinet.

The audience was made up of all ages and ranged from business owners – past and present – health board members, Immingham residents, those with elderly parents, and those from the Wolds villages.

Topics on a wide range of issues affecting those across the borough were asked and answered by the relevant Portfolio Holders in areas including highways, health, children’s and skills, the environment and green spaces and regeneration.

“Hearing views and the things that concern our residents in North East Lincolnshire is vital if, as a Cabinet, we are going to act on behalf of those who live and work here,” said Cllr Freeston.

“We were all really pleased with the open conversations we were able to have at this event and certainly took a lot away from the evening in terms of good ideas, and actions. Thank you all for coming,” he added.

The issue of Selective Licensing and the current trial taking place in Grimsby’s East Marsh was raised. This scheme requires landlords who rent out properties in an area obtaining licences from the local authority for each of their properties. Cabinet members pledged to have further conversations to seek more views from business people who deal directly with both landlords and tenants.

There was also an active debate about equipping people, especially the young, to gain the skills needed to have careers within North East Lincolnshire – while others wanted answers to driving around the town and roadworks, enforcement, the impact of crime on householders, and accessibility around the borough for people with disabilities.

“So many subjects were raised and I would like to reassure those who came along of our pledge to work with officers and partners, and you as our residents, to look at how we can take the issues raised forward,” said Cllr Freeston.

ENDS