To receive questions submitted to the Leader under Standing Order No.14
Minutes:
Under Standing Order No. 14 Members asked the following questions:
Councillor Kellman asked the Leader for an update on any plans for redeveloping the Walton Works site.
The Leader gave a verbal response explaining how disappointing it was that there were still no firm proposals for redevelopment of the Walton Works site. It wasn’t through any lack of effort on the part of the council who had offered advice and support on multiple occasions to the landowners on different schemes and introduced prospective developers and occupiers to the landowners.
Councillor Bingham asked for an update on any plans for the Black and White buildings on Knifesmithgate.
The Leader gave a verbal response indicating that she was not aware of any current plans for the buildings, which were in private ownership.
Councillor Falconer asked if legal action had yet been completed and whetherChesterfield Borough Council would see any compensation or have to bear the full costs of the houses that were built in 2019 and shortly after demolished at Rufford Close, Boythorpe.
The Leader responded that there had been legal proceedings, but as she didn’t precisely know the outcome, she would consult with the Council’s legal team about how much could be disclosed. The Leader committed to providing a written reply to Cllr Falconer.
Councillor Hollingworth asked if there were any plans to occupy the time of Chesterfield Museum staff whilst the Stephenson Memorial Hall renovations were taking place.
The Leader gave a verbal response explaining that the Museum’s staff were still very active. Museum artifacts were now displayed at multiple locations across the borough, and staff were regular contributors at town centre festivals and events for example, the recent 60’s music event at the Pavements Shopping Centre.
Councillor Snowdon asked if the Leader could confirm how many consultants and contract staff were employed by the Council and at what cost.
The Leader gave a verbal response explaining that the Council only used consultants and contract staff where there were capacity challenges and / or where specific skills were needed to supplement the skills of the Council’s existing workforce. Cllr Snowdon was advised to speak with the Council’s Service Director for Finance, Theresa Channell for specific details on the costs of employing consultants and contract staff.