To address rising concern regarding the number of punts touts within Cambridge city centre, Cambridge City Council, in consultation with Cambridge’s punt operators, has agreed a new code of practice to regulate the activity of punt touts in Cambridge.
Neil McGovern, Executive Councillor for Customer Services and Resources, launched the code on Saturday at the Guildhall. Councillor McGovern commented: “I welcome this initiative and the positive response from the punt operators, showing their commitment to uphold the values of best practice in the punting industry” The increase in touting activity in the centre of Cambridge has been a cause for concern to residents and visitors in recent years. The vast majority of touts in the centre of Cambridge are associated with businesses operating from Garret Hostel Lane. As of April 1, The Conservators of the River Cam will only grant commercial punt licenses to businesses operating from identified punt stations, those being:
Companies operating from these identified stations have agreed a code of conduct to promote best practice when touting for business. The code includes an agreed touting area for each company, specifies a limit to the number of touts and also sets out standards of behaviour when dealing with members of the public. Although the code is voluntary, all companies have indicated their willingness to sign, after which they will be able to display a symbol to publicise that they have agreed to adhere to the code. |
Apply now for Area Committee Grants
Does your group want to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee or the 2012 Olympics?
Or organise a local event or festival?
Or prepare a newsletter for the local area?
Area Committees have previously funded trips and a range of community, sports and arts events and activities.
The closing date for applications for grants to be awarded at the West/Central Area Committee meeting on 26th April is 31st March.
Download this leaflet for more information, including details of how to apply.
Next West Central Area Committee – Thursday 1st March, 7pm
Turnstone Suite, Cambridge Rugby Union Football Club, Volac Park, Grantchester Road, Cambridge, CB3 9ED.
The agenda is here. This is your opportunity to ask questions of your local councillors. |
Protecting Midsummer Common
The local LibDem team has pushed the City Council to install an automated gate that will, in time, open only for authorised traffic.
“This is to protect our common land for all,” said Cllr Andrea Reiner.
“Now the next step is to ensure that those who use the gates for access don’t park on the common or drive on the grass”.
Sharing the frustration of many people, Cllr Tim Bick has persuaded the council to make this a priority.