Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Town Clerk/CEO with an update on the current year’s work programme relating to Capital and Special Revenue Projects; as well as projects identified during the course of the year for inclusion as Revenue Growth Items or Special Revenue Projects in the Council’s Revenue Budget or Capital Projects for 2023/24 and beyond

The Committee received and considered the report and verbal update of the Town Clerk/CEO.

Members discussed items that they would like to see in the 2023/24 budget which included commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the NHS possibly with planting around the town. Councillor Ashbourne offered a NHS “Thank You” flag which could be flown from the Town Hall.

Members agreed the Union Flag at the Town should be replaced as the current one is looking rather worn.

The Chair raised the prospect of treating of all community events at the Leys fairly and offering subsidised hire to all, subject to a completed grant form. This would not include commercial hirers.

A Member raised that the council may wish to consider a memorial to the “Windrush Generation” as the ship HMT Empire Windrush which is remembered for bringing one of the first large groups of post-war West Indian immigrants to the United Kingdom, was named after the river running through Witney. A memorial with a plaque by the river would record the link and information could also be added to the council website to explain its significance.

Resolved:

1.            That, the report and verbal update be noted and

2.            That, the town council commemorates the 75th anniversary of the NHS and,

3.            That, a new Union flag be purchased and

4.            That, Witney Pride be offered subsidised ‘free’ use of The Leys to host their annual event and,

5.            That, a memorial or recognition of the town’s link to HMT Empire Windrush be considered.