The following questions and in each case supplementary questions were put (except where indicated) and were responded to by the Mayor or relevant Executive Member.

11.2 Question from Councillor Peter Golds

For years residents of Napier Avenue and Blasker Walk in Island Gardens Ward have provided extensive and detailed evidence of drug dealing and ASB taking place on rarely used resident’s parking bays on Blasker Walk. They have repeatedly asking for the bays to be removed and the pavement extended. Despite numerous meetings, site visits, letters, requests and questions, the situation continues.

Will this simple action be undertaken to improve the quality of life for these residents?

Response of Councillor Dan Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Realm (Job Share) - Lead on Public Realm:

The Council had held a number of site visits to look into this issue with local Councillors. We hope to progress action to address the issues  in the weeks and months ahead subject to funding and collaboration with ward councillors.

Supplementary question from Councillor Peter Golds:

Last night local residents submitted further evidence showing issues with ASB and drug dealing in the street and the car park. In light of this, when does the Council intend to introduce the measures?

Councillor Dan Tomlinson’s response to supplementary question:

I can confirm that the measures should be introduced soon.

11.3 Question from Councillor Victoria Obaze

What actions have the Covid Ambassadors undertaken to maintain compliance with Covid restrictions?

Response of Councillor Rachel Blake , Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing:

The role of the local volunteers involved: visiting residents, in areas with the highest Covid rates. Whilst they do not have an enforcement role, they can provide valuable feedback on non - compliance to the relevant Council team and they provide a vital role in providing information and keeping people safe.

No supplementary question was asked

11.4 Question from Councillor Andrew Wood:

How does the Council intend to respond to the findings of the Isle of Dogs and South Poplar Integrated Water Management Plan which said “The scale of growth planned for the Isle of Dogs and; South Poplar to 2041 poses a significant challenge for the delivery of water services infrastructure in the area. Much of the existing infrastructure is close to, or already at capacity; and flood risk and water quality are key concerns in many parts of the area.”?

Response of Councillor Eve McQuillan, Cabinet Member for Planning and Social Inclusion (Job Share) - Lead on Planning:

We are aware of the need to address this issue and challenges around this. In view of this, I am pleased to report on the development of the Integrated Water Management Plan for the area with the GLA, Thames Water and the Environment Agency. The plan sought to provide a targeted approach to ensure water needs are met and  recommended a range of other measures. We look forward to implementing the plan and were currently exploring how this can be delivered to address the issues in a timely fashion. In addition, the Council looks forward to the implementation and coordination of other emerging measures, such as a wider Infrastructure Delivery Plan for the Isle of Dogs. This should be available soon and I am happy to discuss this with Councillors. 

Supplementary question from Councillor Andrew Wood:

I note that developers are concerned about this issue.

Councillor Eve McQuillan’s response to supplementary question:

I am aware of this.  It was anticipated that the measures should help address the issues.

11.5 Question from Councillor Gabriela Salva Macallan:

Could the Lead member outline whether the Council intend to offer any additional financial compensation to those small businesses that have had a loss of turnover caused as a result of construction associated with the Liveable Streets Programme?

Response of Councillor Dan Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Realm (Job Share) - Lead on Public Realm:

I wish to extend my apologies to any businesses affected by the construction works particularly when they overrun. It was hoped that the improvements should, when implemented, assist businesses, but I  also understand that should they wish to claim compensation for any adverse impacts, they may contact the Valuation Office Agency, who can provide advice about this.

Supplementary question from Councillor Gabriela Salva Macallan:

I am aware that a number of businesses have been affected by the ongoing construction work in the area. Whilst it is noted that they may seek advice, I am concerned that funding is not forthcoming. Can the Council look at providing this to support additional needs for those business as part of the programme?

Councillor Dan Tomlinson’s response to supplementary question:  response to supplementary question:

I am happy to look into this with you. Whilst I cannot commit to anything at this stage, I think it is important that where there are lengthy construction works, we should look to support businesses

11.6 Question from Councillor Kahar Chowdhury:

How are the Covid Champions supporting the community through the pandemic?

Response of Councillor Rachel Blake , Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing:

The Covid Champions play a key role in the Council’s work to keep the community safe, as volunteers. They provide up to date advice to the community and the Council on compliance. They work together and share information, through engagement in webinars and receiving newsletters for example.

No supplementary question was asked

Question 11.1  was not put due to the absence of the questioner. Questions 11.7 -  11.17 were not put due to lack of time. A written response would be provided to these questions. (Note the written responses are included in Appendix A to these minutes)