Agenda item
Announcements from the Chair, Leader or Chief Executive
To receive any announcements from the Chair of the Council, the Leader of the Council and the Chief Executive.
Minutes:
Chair’s announcements
The Chair reminded Councillors who had not yet reviewed their Register of Interests to update it either online or by submitting a paper copy to Democratic Services for the online record to be updated.
Councillor Ray Brassington was congratulated on his appointment as Chair of the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel, which oversees and supports the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The Chair reported attendance at the following events on behalf of the District Council:
· 23 May – Visited Year 3 students at Powell’s School during Make a Change Week. The students had written over 60 letters urging the Council to avoid harmful pesticide use, following their research into Rachel Carson’s work. The Interim Chief Executive was asked to respond to reassure them of the Council’s position. This was noted as an Action.
· 10 June – Attended the Army Engagement Event at the Royal Agricultural University, which showcased a wide range of career opportunities for young people.
· 12 June – Attended Home-Start Cotswolds’ 20th anniversary event, celebrating two decades of support for local families. The Chair noted with pride that the Council had helped launch the organisation, which, with the help of 54 volunteers now assists over 200 children and 150 families annually.
· 2 July – Attended the launch of Cirencester Food Bank’s 2025 Food Poverty Report. Although the need for such services remained concerning, the Council’s targeted initiatives, especially those led by Councillor Claire Bloomer, had helped reduce demand.
· 9 July – Met with Zoey Peace, Community Relations Advisor at RAF Fairford, alongside the former Chair, Councillor Nikki Ind. Thanks were given to Councillor Ind for her efforts in building strong relationships with the air base and its personnel.
· 11 July – Attended a visit with the National Farmers Union to Barhouse Farm, which had successfully diversified into gelato production. Members were reminded of the value of supporting local farmers, and it was noted that the dairy barn approved in Chedworth was helping local farming efforts.
The Chair also paid tribute to Alan “Mac” McQuillan, a D-Day veteran who recently passed away at the age of 102. Alan was part of the RIS 3210 Servicing Commando Unit and landed on Juno Beach on D-Day, serving throughout the war.
Councillor Joe Harris was invited to speak and described Alan as a remarkable character, a strong advocate for the Armed Forces, and a passionate supporter of remembrance. Alan was also well known in his community of Kemble, continuing to deliver newspapers well into his hundreds. His passing was described as “history evaporating before our eyes” and a great loss to the community.
Condolences were expressed to his family and friends and a minutes silence was held in the Chamber.
Leaders Announcements
The Leader welcomed staff who had transferred to the employment of Cotswold District Council on 1 July 2025. It was noted that a meeting had been held in the Chamber to mark the transition.
The Leader formally welcomed Jane Portman, the new Interim Chief Executive, to her first meeting of the Council and expressed appreciation for the positive collaboration to date.
Councillor Tony Dale was warmly welcomed back to the Chamber. The Leader highlighted the value of his wisdom and guidance, and conveyed the Council’s sincere appreciation of his return.
Following the heartfelt tribute delivered by the Chair, the Leader acknowledged with deep sadness the passing of Alan McQuillan and extended sincere condolences to his family and friends.
The Leader extended sincere congratulations to Councillor Laura Hall-Wilson on the recent birth of her child and welcomed the presence of her baby, Bertie, in the Chamber.
Finally, the Leader highlighted upcoming member briefings on local government reorganisation (LGR) and devolution. These would take place on 29 July (4–6 pm, in the Chamber) and 19 August (5–6 pm, virtual session).
Interim Chief Executive
The Interim Chief Executive thanked members for the warm welcome and the kind words expressed at the Extraordinary Full Council meeting on 26 June. She noted that her first weeks in the role had been positive and productive. She had met with staff, partner councils, and leaders across Gloucestershire and was encouraged by the strong collaborative relationships. She expressed confidence that this partnership working would support good decision-making for residents, businesses, and visitors.