Agenda and minutes

To receive the apologies of any Member who is unable to attend the meeting.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Beck, Councillor Brookes, Councillor Cooksey, Councillor R Elliott, Councillor Sheppard, Councillor Short and Councillor Wyatt.

To bestow the honour of the Freedom of the Borough on Dame Julie A Kenny DBE DL.

In accordance with Section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972 and Minute No. 341, it was before the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council to admit Dame Julie Kenny CBE DL HonD FRSA as an Honorary Freewoman of the Metropolitan Borough of Rotherham.

The Mayor began the meeting by introducing Dame Julie Kenny whilst confirming that it was her pleasure to confer the title of Freedom of the Borough on a woman as this had not happened for 50 years. The Mayor explained that, to be granted the title of Honorary Freeman/Freewoman of the Borough was a mark of distinction upon the person that the Council wished to honour.

It was confirmed that Dame Julie Kenny had been awarded the Freedom due to her distinctive work as a major employer, services to industry and charity works in the Borough. The Mayor explained that Dame Julie Kenny had helped those less fortunate within the Borough whilst also leading innovative and inspirational entrepreneurial projects such as the redevelopment of Wentworth Woodhouse. A video was played that gave further details of Dame Julie Kenny’s work in the Borough.

Members joined the Mayor in congratulating Dame Julie Kenny on the award. Dame Kenny responded by stating that she was honoured to have the Freedom of the Borough bestowed upon her. She detailed her work in the Borough and expressed her pride in Rotherham.

The Mayor confirmed that a formal civic ceremonial event would take place when COVID-19 restrictions were removed in order to celebrate this achievement and present the Freedom of the Borough pendant.