To receive questions from and provide answers to the public in relation to matters which are about something the council is responsible for or something that directly affects people in the city, in accordance with Part B, paragraph 11 of the Constitution.

Questions, of no longer than 50 words, can be submitted to the Democratic Support Unit, Plymouth City Council, Ballard House, West Hoe Road, Plymouth, PL1 3BJ, or email to democraticsupport@plymouth.gov.uk. Any questions must be received at least five complete working days before the meeting.

There was one question from the public.

Mr Ramage asked the following question:

Insects are the bedrock of our relationship with nature but are in serious decline. The South-West Wildlife Trusts’ campaign literature calls for a major reduction in the amount, type, and frequency of pesticides used to manage gardens, parks, and urban areas, etc. Will PCC endorse and enact this?

Councillor Dann, Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene gave the following response:

We are aware of the concerns around chemical treatment of weeds, particularly Glyphosate and other herbicides. We have already reduced the use of chemicals in parks and playgrounds and do not use any pesticides when treating weeds. We have trialled a number of methods to remove unsightly weeds from roads, lanes and footpaths, but have found chemicals to be the most cost-effective method of control. Nevertheless, we continue to trial a more targeted application by staff on foot rather than in vehicles to achieve optimum results. This more manual (targeted) approach means that we do not spray weeds that are not growing, which has shown clear benefits, especially where residents are actively helping us by removing weeds outside their properties. The down side of this slower method is that it does mean the rapid life cycle of weeds can get ahead of our teams, especially at a time when climate change is extending the growing season.  We continue to balance efficient and effective control versus reducing chemical use and will continue to monitor the evidence and advice from DEFRA and other reputable bodies.