Agenda and minutes

Councillor Julie Swan sent her apologies.

No interests were declared.

Purpose

To advise the Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety of the licences issues by the Business Support Team and to obtain approval for revised frees and charges to be put into effect as from 1 April 2016.

The services impacted by this policy are those which include the registration of businesses which involve a potential risk of infectious disease transfer (such as tattooing and skin piercing) and those involving the licensing of businesses where animal welfare concerns might arise (such as pet shops and dog breeding).

For clarity, licensing requires an annual renewal fee whereas registrations involve a one-off fee upon application.

RECOMMENDED that the Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety approve the licence and registration charges as set out in appendix one.

Richard Lee, Environmental Health Manager introduced the report.

Councillor Smith stated that he supported the intention to pursue the full recovery of costs but asked the Cabinet Member to instruct officers to be alert to any opportunity to reduce the time spent on this work.

Councillor Chowdhury noted the importance of this work which also plays an important role in reducing risk to people.

Councillor New noted that although the fees could reduce in future, it is important that the service is not subsidised and that the fees are in line with other local authorities.  He welcomed the fact the council has a duty to do ensure as much as possible animal welfare and people's safety. 

DECISION

The Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety approved the licence and registration charges as set out in appendix one.