A new cross-council task force has been established in Scarborough to address a variety of issues and improve the town centre.
The task force, chaired by Rachel Joyce, Assistant Chief Executive for Local Engagement, aims to coordinate activities across council services and tackle long-term issues. The group will focus on improving the “on-street” look and feel of the town centre, making residents and visitors feel safer, and better supporting young or vulnerable residents.
For the initial 12 months, the Task Force will focus on the following objectives to drive its work:
- To understand the breadth of projects, programmes and activity already underway in Scarborough to remove duplication and develop a more holistic approach to resolving issues in the town centre.
- Coordinate the Council’s efforts and resources in Scarborough to maximise impact where possible, particularly in response to the priorities identified through the recent Let’s Talk Scarborough consultation.
- Provide reassurance to residents, businesses and partners that the Council is acting and listening to stakeholders’ concerns, including the development of a specific NYC comms plan for Scarborough.
- Identify the most ‘demand intensive’ areas of work and target activity to reduce demand on Council services.
- Look to maximise the value and input of partners, including the voluntary and community sector.
Councillor David Jeffels has welcomed the task force but stressed the urgent need for investment in the town centre, particularly in secondary streets. He believes that improving the street environment would have a positive impact on anti-social behaviour, the town’s appearance, and the local economy. Jeffels pointed to the regeneration of some shops as a positive sign and called for further investment to make Scarborough more attractive to residents, shoppers, and tourists.
The task force is currently meeting monthly and includes representation from various council services, including:
- Waste & Street Scene
- Community Safety
- Highways
- Tourism
- Economic Development
- Regeneration
- Public Health
- Adult Social Care
- Children Social Care
The group will link in with other Scarborough-based groups and partnerships, such as the Scarborough Towns Board, the Town Centre Team, the South Bay Summit, and the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee.
Councillor Derek Bastiman raised concerns about the enforcement of the Public Place Protection Order (PSPO), pointing to a previous instance in Scarborough where similar orders were not adequately policed. Cllr Bastiman requested assurances that the order would be effectively enforced and looked forward to a report on the positive steps taken.
In response, Rachel Joyce acknowledged the concerns and assured the council that the community safety team is working diligently to address the issues. She promised to provide a comprehensive update on the action plan, with a specific focus on the PSPO.
The task force is an important step towards addressing the challenges facing Scarborough town centre.
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