Weekly Update from the Leader and Chief Executive

Dear Friends

South Warwickshire hospitals bed occupancy levels are currently over 90%, highlighting just how important it is that we continue to be vigilant as Covid restrictions are lifted. While local infection rates have fallen this week from 1,405.7 to 1,144.2 cases per 100,000 people, there are many in our community who remain vulnerable. During these last few weeks of winter, it is important that we continue the safe practices that we know work, by washing our hands, ventilating rooms and self-isolating when required.

After two extraordinary years, we’re regaining our cherished freedoms thanks to the protection given by the vaccine, which continues to be our best defence against Covid. Jabs are freely available, with details on the first and second jabs (and third or fourth boosters), here.

Good progress was made on the local Recovery Plan this week:

• Council tax freeze. Our Cabinet have agreed unanimously to recommended that no change is made to Warwick District Council’s share of tax collected for the 2022/23 financial year. Subject to approval at the budget-setting 23 February Council meeting, the tax paid by a band D household will remain at £176.86 for the coming year. Freezing our Council Tax is just one of a number of measures we’re taking to address the financial squeeze many of us will experience over the year ahead. Thankfully, our partnership with Stratford on Avon District Council, and the efficiencies this is already generating, is helping us strengthen our services and share the financial benefits directly with our residents.
• Net zero carbon development. An innovative planning policy that will require all new homes built in the district to achieve a net zero carbon standard goes out for public consultation. The new policy, which is part of our ambitious Climate Emergency Action Plan, is scheduled to be submitted to government for approval this time next year.
• Reducing carbon emissions from Council owned buildings. An ambitious programme of measures has been agreed to transform our public buildings, including the installation of LED lighting, PV panels and more energy efficient heating and cooling systems. The framework for future investments and grant bids has also been put in place to help accelerate this key programme over the years ahead.
• Over £1m paid in grants to hospitality and leisure business. Our brilliant finance team have been doing double time during the busy budget season to ensure the latest round of government grants are processed promptly, getting vital support those affected by the Omicron variant. Applications close on 21 February 2022, and details are found here.
• Helping deal with rising fuel prices. Alongside our Stratford colleagues we are working again with local charity Act On Energy to promote the availability of grants, advice and practical support for anyone who is struggling to deal with the rapidly increasing energy costs.

With the Commonwealth Games just around the corner, we’d welcome your suggestions on people, places, objects or things that you associate with Royal Leamington Spa for a ‘Colour Palette’ art piece, to be installed in the pedestrian underpass at the Station. You can easily submit your suggestions, by completing this short online form by next Monday 14 February.

We’re also seeking nominations for anyone that you believe would be worthy Baton-bearer for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay. There are many unsung heroes or individuals who have overcome adversity across our community. So why not visit the B2022 website over this weekend and share our nomination for this special honour.

And finally…… a number of Commonwealth Games community drop-in sessions are being organised to enable us to ask questions about getting involved; the plans for parking, road closures and other elements of the preparations. No appointment is necessary, with the first drop-in session taking place next Friday 18 February at the Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa between 10am and 3pm.

Keep smiling and stay safe.

Andrew Day Leader                                    Chris Elliott    Chief Executive