Agenda item

(A report by the Partnership Scrutiny Task Group)

A member of the Partnership Scrutiny Task and Finish Group, Councillor David Scoot, presented a report by the Partnership Scrutiny Task Group which sought consideration of the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group.

The joint environmental crime enforcement contract with Kingdom Services Group had commenced in March 2023 for a three-year term, with an option to extend for a further two years. The contract covered enforcement of environmental offences such as fly-tipping, littering, and dog fouling, and included CCTV operations The report of the Task and Finish Group was attached as Appendix 1 and the Agreed Project Scoping Document was attached at Appendix 2 within the report.

Members noted that Boston Borough Council had performed particularly well under the contract, partly due to its prior working relationship with Kingdom.The Task and Finish group had reviewed the contract’s performance across the three partner councils and made 13 recommendations.

Members discussed the report and commented as follows:

·        Members engaged in a detailed discussion on the performance and public interface of the environmental crime enforcement contract with Kingdom Services Group. A key focus was the accessibility and effectiveness of public reporting mechanisms. Members queried whether reports submitted via the FixMyStreet app were integrated into Kingdom’s operational workflow. The Assistant Director – Regulatory clarified that FixMyStreet was a Lincolnshire County Council platform and was not directly linked to the councilswebsites for the most efficient response. Whilst it was acknowledged that some FixMyStreet reports may eventually be redirected to the appropriate authority, it was not considered to be the most effective method. Members emphasised the importance of residents providing contact details when using FixMyStreet in order to receive updates, and noted that the app was effective when used correctly.

·        Several members highlighted the convenience of apps such as FixMyStreet, particularly for younger and more digitally engaged residents, and suggested the development of a Boston-specific reporting app to improve accessibility and responsiveness. The Assistant Director – Regulatory confirmed that Recommendation 3 within the report addressed the need to improve public reporting mechanisms and he acknowledged the value of adopting best practice from other authorities.

·        Members raised long-standing concerns regarding wheelie bins being left on public footpaths, particularly in the context of the forthcoming Boston 400 celebrations. The visual impact on the town and the obstruction caused to pedestrians, including disabled residents and those with pushchairs, were highlighted. Members discussed the potential for enforcement officers to be tasked with addressing this issue and suggested exploring longer-term solutions, such as reopening rear alleyways to facilitate bin storage. The possible use of Town Deal funding to support such improvements was also raised.

·        A committee member shared positive experiences using the ClearWaste app, which allowed users to report fly-tipping with photographic and location data.  It was noted that reports submitted via ClearWaste were typically resolved within 48 hours and that the app communicated effectively with Boston Borough Council.

·        In addition, members commented on the broader utility of FixMyStreet for reporting issues to other public bodies, including Network Rail and the NHS, and cited examples of successful outcomes. The importance of public education and communication was emphasised, with members recommending that the Council do more to publicise successful enforcement actions and promote community engagement in tackling environmental crime.

·        Members noted the potential for Town Deal funding to support infrastructure improvements that enhance the town’s appearance and accessibility, particularly in the context of the forthcoming Boston 400 celebrations.

The 13 recommendations of the Task and Finish group, as set out within the report, were endorsed by the Committee. The Chairman thanked members of the Task and Finish Group and Officers for the report.

Resolved:

That the report be noted and that the associated recommendations be agreed.