Agenda, decisions and draft minutes
Venue: Main Hall, Brady Arts and Community Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, London E1 5HU
Contact: Angus Taylor, Democratic Services Tel: 020 7364 4333, E-mail: angus.taylor@towerhamlets.gov.uk
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COUNCILLOR H. ABBAS (CHAIR) IN THE CHAIR
WELCOME
The Chair opened the meeting by welcoming those present in the public gallery to the second meeting of the Cabinet to be held outside the Town Hall, commenting that forthcoming Cabinet meetings prior to the Mayoral election in October 2010 were, at his request, also to be held in the Community with a view to promoting resident attendance and engagement.
ADJOURNMENT
At this juncture the Chair informed those present that before Cabinet consideration of the substantive business set out in the agenda, he felt it appropriate to allow an opportunity for the public to put questions to the Leader of the Council [himself], Deputy Leader of the Council and other Lead Members comprising the Cabinet; also to allow an opportunity for members of the Cabinet to comment on the learning from their walkabout, which had taken place immediately beforehand. Accordingly the Chair Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, and it was: -
Resolved
That the Cabinet adjourn for a period of 30 minutes, at 5.35pm, and that the meeting reconvene at 6.05pm.
The meeting adjourned at 5.35pm The meeting reconvened at 6.05pm
Question & Answer Session
Members of the public asked a number of questions to which the members of the Cabinet responded including: · Administration’s stance on areas of the borough having their own devolved council’s. · Action the Council was taking to improve physical and visual access to its public buildings. · Joined up working/ response of Council departments to the Mayor of London’s cycle route initiative, given the perceived detrimental impact on pedestrian safety in some areas of the borough. · Whether the disposal of Council assets was proposed to meet the savings required by the Coalition Government.
Walkabout Learning
Cabinet members commented on the learning from their walkabout which had taken place immediately before the Cabinet meeting. This had comprised of 4 groups of Cabinet Members/ Chief Officers walking to the Brady Arts and Community Centre, from meeting points in the vicinity, for approximately an hour. Comments received focused on the following issues:
Valance Road/ Bethnal Green Road group · Tower Hamlets Homes properties: quality of caretaking and condition of stock - reasonably good. Lead Member encouraged by result of investment in deep clean of estates but acknowledged it needed wider roll-out. · Prostitution in Cheshire Street/ whether CCTV was operational and action plan to address. Corporate Director Communities Localities and Culture (CDCLC) reported on initiatives to mitigate, but to take this up and to update Deputy Leader in writing. · Derelict properties at bottom of Vallance Road owned by the Housing Revenue Account found to be in poor state of repair. Service Head Major Project Development reported the land had been set aside for a Transport for London road widening project, would explore if this was still viable and report back to next Cabinet meeting. · Pigeon droppings and street lights not working on a street to east of Vallance Road. Lights issue to be taken up with Officer responsible for spotting and to identify systemic failure. · Lister House in Vallance Road known for drug and prostitution issues seen to be in better condition. Hereford Estate lacked TRA - working with THH to support this. · Disappointing some programmed Decent Homes projects in the area had not yet commenced, although they were underway elsewhere.
Arnold Circus group · In context of number of refuse bins often used by businesses, over-full/unattractive, also spillage on pavement (possibly due to type of bags used) health and safety issue and counteractive to cleansing activities - new approach needed. Public Realm either good or unacceptably bad. · CDCLC reported some businesses had refuse collection contract with Council, some abused the service, others abused the bins provided to others. Working with contractors towards a new bin-less frequent collection approach. · Blatant touting on Brick Lane - action needed to mitigate. Policy to pursue enforcement through courts not effective. Is being taken up through joint tasking with Police but not a priority.
Whitechapel Idea Store/Market group · CDCLC acknowledged that although Council’s cleaning performance had improved against indicators, some areas seen on this walkabout, and others, were of unacceptable standard. Action to be taken to raise standards as appropriate. · Fenced area on corner of Whitechapel and Vallance Road full of litter disappointing and would be addressed. · Too many bicycles from bicycle scheme on junction of New Road. · Pigeon control needed taken up with TfL.
New Road and Commercial Road group · Children happy with play provision and tenants with facilities. One complaint of noise. · Restaurant owner just inspected happy with regulatory service. · Holes in pavement in New Road needed repair, sidewalk edge needed deep clean. · Oasis area outside Mosque Whitechapel Road and Bell Road needed attention.
The Chair thanked members of the public for attending to present questions. Also Cabinet members/ Chief Officers for attending the walkabout, which he considered presented an opportunity to see a locality/ any issues first hand and to assess how reality measured up to reported performance.
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COUNCILLOR H. ABBAS (CHAIR) IN THE CHAIR
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APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE To receive any apologies for absence.
Decision: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:
· Councillor S. Khatun, Lead Member Children’s Services. · Councillor A. Jackson, Chair Overview and Scrutiny Committee for whom Councillor Ahmed Adam Omer Vice-Chair Overview and Scrutiny Committee was deputising. · Mr A. Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal for whom Mr O. Whalley, Service Head Major Project Development - Development and Renewal, was deputising.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:
· Councillor S. Khatun, Lead Member Children’s Services. · Councillor A. Jackson, Chair Overview and Scrutiny Committee for whom Councillor Ahmed Adam Omer Vice-Chair Overview and Scrutiny Committee was deputising. · Mr A. Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal for whom Mr O. Whalley, Service Head Major Project Development - Development and Renewal, was deputising.
Noted.
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST PDF 25 KB To note any declarations of interest made by Members, including those restricting Members from voting on the questions detailed in Section 106 of the Local Government Finance Act, 1992. See attached note from the Chief Executive.
Decision: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Abbas was a former representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101).The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and Mulberry Secondary School specifically and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Wellington Primary School and Phoenix Special School - Decisions on statutory proposals” (CAB 004/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Swanlea Secondary School, and his son attended Swanlea Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and referred specifically to Mulberry Secondary School, and Councillor Jones was a member ... view the full decision text for item 2. Minutes: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Abbas was a former representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101).The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and Mulberry Secondary School specifically and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Wellington Primary School and Phoenix Special School - Decisions on statutory proposals” (CAB 004/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Swanlea Secondary School, and his son attended Swanlea Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and referred specifically to Mulberry Secondary School, and Councillor Jones was a member ... view the full minutes text for item 2. |
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UNRESTRICTED MINUTES PDF 194 KB To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010.
Decision: Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Chair Moved and it was: -
Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
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DEPUTATIONS & PETITIONS To receive any deputations or petitions.
Decision:
Statement Tabled by Wapping Parents Group.
Resolved
1. That the following deputation be formally received and noted: -
Mr J. Cheyne, Wapping Parents Group, in respect of Agenda item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101);
2. That the points raised by the deputation be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the item of business to which the deputation related; and
3. That any outstanding issues raised by the deputation be referred to the Corporate Director Children Schools and Families for attention and response in writing within 28 days, in accordance with the Authority’s Constitution (Part 4, Rules of Procedure, Section 4.1 Council Procedure Rules, Rule 20 Deputations).
Action by: ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES (I. CATTERMOLE) Interim Service Head Resources, Children Schools and Families (K. Bingham) CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head Building Schools for the Future, Development & Renewal Directorate, (A. Sutcliffe)
Minutes:
At this juncture the Chair Informed members of the Cabinet that the Assistant Chief Executive had received one valid request, from Wapping Parents Group, to address them in respect of Agenda item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101).
Variation to Order of Business
The Chair also indicated that he thought it appropriate that the Order of Business be varied so that following receipt of the deputation, consideration be given to the report, contained in the agenda before the Cabinet for consideration, which was the subject matter of the deputation.
Accordingly the Chair Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, and it was: -
Resolved
That the Order of Business be varied so that following the receipt of the deputation, Agenda Item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101) be considered next, and subsequently the Cabinet return to the order of business detailed in the agenda.
At this juncture the Chair informed members of the Cabinet that a statement had been Tabled by the Wapping Parents Group, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Following receipt of the deputation, points of clarification sought and given, and an address from Deputy Leader of the Council, on behalf of the Lead Member Children’s Services, in response to the deputation, the Chair thanked the deputation for coming to address the Cabinet and then Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet and it was: -
Resolved
1. That the following deputation be formally received and noted: -
Mr J. Cheyne, Wapping Parents Group, in respect of Agenda item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101);
2. That the points raised by the deputation be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the item of business to which the deputation related; and
3. That any outstanding issues raised by the deputation be referred to the Corporate Director Children Schools and Families for attention and response in writing within 28 days, in accordance with the Authority’s Constitution (Part 4, Rules of Procedure, Section 4.1 Council Procedure Rules, Rule 20 Deputations).
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OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE |
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Chair's advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered To receive any advice of key issues or questions in relation to the unrestricted business of the Cabinet, arising from the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 3rd August 2010.
Decision: Sheet of questions and comments arising from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 3rd August 2010 Tabled by the Vice-Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Resolved
That the questions and comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted, and that these be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the items of business to which the questions/ comments related.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Omer, Vice-Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, had Tabled a sheet of questions/ comments arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, in respect of the unrestricted business contained in the agenda for consideration, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Councillor Omer, Vice-Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, addressed members of the Cabinet: · Key Issues or Questions (Pre Scrutiny) Informing members of the Cabinet that he had nothing to add to the questions/ comments raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as set out in the tabled paper regarding: - · Item 6.1 LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh · Item 7.4 Framework for Minor Works and Repairs · Item 7.5 Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations
The Chair thanked Councillor Omer for presenting the contribution of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee; and then Moved and it was: -
Resolved
That the questions and comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted, and that these be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the items of business to which the questions/ comments related.
Variation to Order of Business
At this juncture the Chair Informed members of the Cabinet that, given the level of public interest in two reports detailed later in the agenda before them for consideration: · Agenda Item 7.5 Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations · Agenda Item 10.2 Budget 2011/12 - 2013/14 - Resource Allocation and Budget Review he thought it appropriate that the Order of Business be varied so that following Agenda item 5.1 “Chair’s Advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered” that these two reports be considered as the next business.
Accordingly the Chair Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, and it was: -
Resolved
That the Order of Business be varied so that following Agenda item 5.1 “Chair’s Advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered” Agenda item 7.5 “Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations” (CAB 023/101) be considered next, thereafter Agenda Item 10.2 “Budget 2011/12 - 2013/14 - Resource Allocation and Budget Review” (CAB 026/101), and subsequently the Cabinet return to the order of business detailed in the agenda.
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Any Unrestricted Decisions "Called in" by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Under provisions of Article 6 Para 6.02 V of the Constitution).
The following item has been “called in” for further consideration by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at its meeting to be held on 3rd August 2010. Should the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, upon consideration, refer the report back to the Cabinet for further consideration Members will receive a copy of each report and the decision/ recommendations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at the Cabinet meeting.
(i) Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop (CAB 010/101).
Decision: 5.2(i) Cabinet Decision “Called in” Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop (CAB 010/101).
Reference from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, Tabled by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Response of Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture to the reference from Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, Tabled.
Resolved
1. That the advice /comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as detailed in the Tabled Reference (CAB), be noted; and
2. That the provisional decisions of the Cabinet, made on 7th July 2010, in relation to Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop (CAB 010/101) be reaffirmed.
Action by CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE (S. HALSEY) Service Head Cultural Services, Communities, Localities and Culture (H. Bonfield) Head of Idea Store Communities, Localities and Culture (J. St. John) CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) [7 July 2010 Resolution 4]
Minutes: 5.2(i) Cabinet Decision “Called in” Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop (CAB 028/101).
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Omer, Vice- Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, had Tabled a reference (CAB 028/101) arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, in respect of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, held on 7th July 2010, made in relation to Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop (CAB 010/101), a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Councillor Omer, Vice- Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, addressed members of the Cabinet in relation to the tabled reference of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) (CAB 028/101), and requests contained therein, highlighting focal points of the further deliberation of this matter by the Committee and its conclusion to refer the provisional decision of the Cabinet regarding this matter back to the Cabinet for further consideration. · The suitability of the proposed location for the new Idea Store Local/One Stop Shop (ISL/OSS), the scale of the structure and associated impact on the pedestrian corridor through Watney Market. · The potential for other commercial and residential uses of the site proposed for the new ISL/OSS and the rationale for seeking one valuation of the site and not marketing it. · The merits of using and source of Section 106 funding for the project. · The level and methodology of consultation undertaken with residents/ Registered Social Landlords in relation to the project and in particular the use of the land. · The future of the existing idea store and safety aspects of combining a library in a One Stop Shop. And concluding by commending that the Cabinet set aside their previous decision and instead took the alternative course of action set out in the tabled report of the OSC: · A second independent valuation of the plot of land listed in Appendix 1 of the report for development of the new ISL/OSS be undertaken; · Further community consultation be undertaken to establish exactly what local residents would like to see the land used for; · The source (s) of the s106 funding required to support this project are identified; and · The need for an Idea Store in Watney Market and investment in the existing Watney Market Library be reviewed.
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that a detailed response to the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in the tabled reference regarding this agenda item, had been Tabled by the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, and Mr Whalley Service Head Major Project Development - Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair, also addressed members of the Cabinet in relation to the matters raised by the OSC in the ... view the full minutes text for item 5.2 |
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE |
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Additional documents:
Decision: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Resolved
1. That the contents of the Annual Review (2009/10) (Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 017/101)) and the Annual Refresh 2010 (Appendix 2) be approved; and
2. That the changes to the Tower Hamlets Housing Strategy detailed in Appendix 2 to the report (CAB 017/101) be agreed.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head, Strategy Regeneration and Sustainability, Development and Renewal (J. Odunoye) Strategic Housing Manager, Development and Renewal (J. Coker)
Minutes: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “LBTH Housing Strategy - Annual Review for 2009/10 and the Annual Strategy Refresh” (CAB 017/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Housing Strategy which affected properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes) and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing Heritage and Planning, in introducing the report, summarised the key points contained therein, commenting that: · The report provided an update on the first year’s performance of the Tower Hamlets Housing Strategy the key objectives of which were: Delivering and managing Decent Homes o Managing demand and reducing overcrowding o Emphasis on place-making and sustainable communities o New supply of housing and particularly social housing o Housing investment Strategy and a Local Investment Plan comprising of key housing projects. · Good progress was reported on: o Right to Buy “buy backs” o Local authority new build and the Local Homes Initiative o Decent Homes Pilots o Leasehold Services audit o Choice Based Lettings, which was now live o Preferred Partner Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) for development in the borough · Significant challenges remained: o The Decant Strategy o RSL aids and adaptions o Commercial units on estates o Maintaining Decent Homes/ RSL Asset Management including improved asset database o Guidance on housing design for BME communities o Identifying funding for housing, by far the biggest challenge
Mr Coker, Strategic Housing Manager – Development and Renewal additionally: · Outlined the areas on which the first refresh of the Housing Strategy, adopted in 2009, had focused, as set out in the report. · Highlighted significant risks to the delivery of the Housing Strategy’s objectives: o Tower Hamlets Homes not achieving the two star management standard from audit inspectors required to unlock capital resources necessary to deliver decent homes standard on the stock it managed on behalf of the Council. Also the possibility that this funding may no longer be made available by the Coalition Government regardless of achieving two star status. o Potential reduction in funding available from the Homes and Communities Agency National Affordable Housing Programme 2011-2014. Key housing projects at risk as a result of this would be 2012 Olympic Park, Blackwall Reach/ Robin Hood Gardens and the Bromley by Bow Masterplan Area. · Informed members of the Cabinet that the Decant Strategy which initially came out of the emergency allocation plan would move forward to examine under-occupancy. · Advised that 15 ... view the full minutes text for item 6.1 |
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Additional documents: Decision: Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Abbas was a former representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Additional paragraph 6.4 to the report Tabled.
Resolved
1. That the site detailed at a) below and identified on the Ordinance Survey maps attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 018/101), owned by the Authority (and held under provisions of Part II of the Housing Act 1985) be declared surplus to the Authority’s requirements;
a) Land at 36-42 Hessel Street, Whitechapel, E1
2. That, subject to (a) below, the disposal of the Authority’s interest in the site to Tower Hamlets Community Housing at a sum of £1, for the purposes of providing a scheme containing 100% affordable housing on the conditions set out in paragraphs 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4 [latter paragraph tabled] of the report (CAB 018/101); noting that the Authority would forego a Capital Receipt of £600,000 in exchange for obtaining 100% nominations to family sized social rented homes, be authorised; and
(a) That funding be confirmed as available by the Homes and Communities Agency under its revised value for money criteria.
3. That the Director of Development and Renewal be authorised to negotiate the final details of the disposal of the land and that these include adequate pavement provision adjacent to the public highway.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head, Strategy Regeneration and Sustainability, Development and Renewal (J. Odunoye) Private Sector and Affordable Housing Manager, Housing Strategy and Development, Development and Renewal (A. Thomas) Development Officer, Housing Strategy and Development, Development and Renewal (J. Dowle)
Minutes: Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Abbas was a former representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Homes Initiative: Sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101).The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Tower Hamlets Community Housing, and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Community Housing.
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that an additional paragraph 6.4 to the report “Local Homes Initiative: sale of additional land to Tower Hamlets Community Housing” (CAB 018/101),which contained supplementary information relating to the valuation process, and a revised valuation figure, for the land recommended for disposal in the original report, had been Tabled, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Ms Thomas, Private Sector and Affordable Housing Manager – Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report and tabled additional paragraph thereof, summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · Cabinet had approved the principles of the Local Homes Initiative in December 2008 and subsequently agreed further details of the scheme and disposal of 8 small sites to Tower Hamlets Community Housing (THCH) and Poplar HARCA. The disposals were conditional on obtaining planning consent to build family sized homes on the sites and obtain funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). · Slow progress resulted in the 2009/10 HCA funding allocation being allocated to other schemes which were currently on site and due to deliver 23 three bedroom units by Spring 2012. · THCH had received a 2010/11 HCA funding allocation of £3.925m, for 23 units for rent, but this had to be taken up by December 2010, with the trigger being start on site. The grant rate is over £170,000 per unit as this allocation was made over a year ago. The current average grant rate for LBTH was less than £100,000 per unit. · Paragraph 4 of the report indicated that the number of sites currently available, just 13 units, would not provide sufficient units to take up the full HCA grant allocation. THCH were working on smaller schemes on their own land and anticipated being able to provide an additional 4 units. · The site at Hessel Street, in Whitechapel, could provide 6 three bedroom units; and were Cabinet to agree disposal to THCH for £1, it would enable THCH to take up their full allocation of funding from the HCA. · However the HCA funding for the scheme was dependent not only on obtaining planning consent, but also on continued availability which was not guaranteed. HCA funding rules were ... view the full minutes text for item 6.2 |
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A PROSPEROUS COMMUNITY |
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Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy (CAB 019/101) PDF 197 KB Decision: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101).The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and Mulberry Secondary School specifically and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Resolved
1. That the content of the report (CAB 019/101) be noted; also noting that the population growth which it projects will have implications for wider Council and public services beyond statutory education provision;
2. That it be noted that officers are continuing to develop feasibility studies for the provision of a new school(s) on Bow Lock and Southern Grove and that it be agreed that the outcome of these studies is reported back in December 2010;
3. That the strategy in response to the projected increasing demand for secondary school places beyond 2014/15 be agreed, also noting that this demand will exceed capacity in spite of the plan to provide a new 8 form entry (FE) secondary school;
4. That the strategy in response to the projected increasing demand for primary schools places up to 2020 be agreed; and
5. That relevant Council officers be instructed to identify and shortlist suitable sites and associated resource for educational use, whether council or privately owned, to meet this demand and report on this by November 2010.
Action by: ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES (I. CATTERMOLE) Acting Service Head Resources, Children Schools and Families (K. Bingham) CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head Building Schools for the Future, Development & Renewal Directorate, (A. Sutcliffe)
Minutes: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.1 “Pupil Place Planning and School Estate Strategy” (CAB 019/101).The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and Mulberry Secondary School specifically and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Please note that the order of business was varied by resolution of the Cabinet earlier in the proceedings in order to allow this item to be considered following Agenda Item 4.0 “Deputations and Petions”, however for ease of reference the deliberations of the Cabinet, and subsequent decisions taken, are set out below in the order detailed in the agenda.
Ms Cattermole, Acting Corporate Director Children, Schools and Families, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · That the report provided an update on pupil projections and the Authority’s associated strategy to meet its statutory duty to provide places for students. · The Authority’s Pupil Place Planning statement, originally prepared in January 2008, had now been reviewed by Officers in Children Schools and Families and Development and Renewal directorates to take account of a variety of factors including: known/ projected birth rates, school census data, student yield from planned housing developments (with a watching brief on new development), sustainable delivery of educational provision to meet demand, demographic movements (in and out of borough, including new arrivals of statutory school age). Projections of population growth and the associated projections for school places to 2020 had been revised accordingly. · The elements of the school estate strategy to meet rising demand for both primary and secondary school places and associated funding plans: o Primary: short term to be met by expansion of 5 existing schools. Longer term significant additional provision required in Central and east of borough by further expansions and two new primary schools (feasibility studies for expansion of 9 more primary schools underway). o Secondary: short term demand to 2014/15 to be met by expansion of number of forms of entry at existing schools, (detailed discussions underway with governing bodies) and an additional 8 form entry school included within the Building Schools for the Future Programme; also re-location of Bow Boys School. Demand additional to this post 2014 to be met by expansion/ refurbishment of existing estate and optimum usage of unused places. · Further report to be presented to Cabinet by December 2010. · Addressed the matters raised by the deputation in relation to the report earlier in the proceedings as follows: o Officers had liaised closely with the parents group from Wapping/Shadwell over past months, examined their proposals in detail and had made arrangements for them to visit John Orwell Sports Centre. o An options appraisal had been undertaken to inform the Authority’s strategy to meet forecast growth at secondary level, starting by looking at sites owned by the Authority and those suitable for new school build. o A more detailed options appraisal ... view the full minutes text for item 7.1 |
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Decision: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Wellington Primary School and Phoenix Special School - Decisions on statutory proposals” (CAB 004/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Resolved
1. That the contents of the report (CAB 020/101), including the published statutory proposals for Wellington School at Appendix A and for Phoenix School at Appendix B of the report (CAB 020/101), be noted;
2. That the statutory requirements for the school organisation decision-making process and the considerations to be taken into account in making any decision, set out in paragraphs 6 and 7 of the report (CAB 020/101), be noted;
3. That the proposals as published for the expansion of Wellington Primary School from 1 September 2011 (attached as Appendix A to the report CAB 020/101) be approved; and
4. That the proposals as published for the addition of a sixth form at Phoenix School from 1 September 2010 (attached as Appendix B to the report CAB 020/101) be approved.
Action by: ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES (I. CATTERMOLE) Acting Service Head Resources, Children Schools and Families (K. Bingham) Head of Building Development, Children Schools and Families (Pat Watson)
Minutes: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Wellington Primary School and Phoenix Special School - Decisions on statutory proposals” (CAB 004/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Cabinet members welcomed in particular the proposal contained in the report for the addition of a sixth form at Phoenix School, which responded to the need for sufficient and appropriate school places for post 16 students with Special Educational Needs.
The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report; and it was: -
Resolved
1. That the contents of the report (CAB 020/101), including the published statutory proposals for Wellington School at Appendix A and for Phoenix School at Appendix B of the report (CAB 020/101), be noted;
2. That the statutory requirements for the school organisation decision-making process and the considerations to be taken into account in making any decision, set out in paragraphs 6 and 7 of the report (CAB 020/101), be noted;
3. That the proposals as published for the expansion of Wellington Primary School from 1 September 2011 (attached as Appendix A to the report CAB 020/101) be approved; and
4. That the proposals as published for the addition of a sixth form at Phoenix School from 1 September 2010 (attached as Appendix B to the report CAB 020/101) be approved.
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Decision: Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Swanlea Secondary School, and his son attended Swanlea Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and referred specifically to Mulberry Secondary School, and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Resolved
1. That the acceptance of the final tenders from Tower Hamlets Local Enabling Partner (The LEP) for the Design and Build Contracts for Swanlea and Harpley PRU, together with such ancillary services incidental to the BSF schemes, the terms of each agreement or document to be agreed by the Corporate Director of Development and Renewal provided and conditional upon each scheme being within the target cost figure of: Swanlea £16,345,518 and Harpley £6,626,924, as set out in paragraph 3.1 of the report (CAB 021/101), be authorised;
2. That the Corporate Director of Development & Renewal be authorised to accept the final tenders for Raines Foundation and Bowden, due to be agreed during August 2010, as long as they are contained within the funding envelope of £20,341,600 and £8,968,720 respectively, as set out in paragraph 3.2 of the report (CAB 021/101) and;
3. That the Corporate Director of Development & Renewal be authorised to enter into Design and Build contracts and any other ancillary agreements, undertakings and obligations incidental to the BSF Scheme with THeLEP for each of the above projects outlined in resolutions 1. and 2. above; subject to final approval of all the contractual documents by the Assistant Chief Executive ( Legal Services) .
CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head, Building Schools for the Future, Children Schools and Families (A. Sutcliffe)
Minutes: Councillor H. Abbas declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Swanlea Secondary School, and his son attended Swanlea Secondary School.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.3 “Update on Building Schools for the Future Programme (authorisation to enter into contracts)” (CAB 021/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to secondary schools in general and referred specifically to Mulberry Secondary School, and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Ms Cattermole, Acting Corporate Director Children, Schools and Families, at the request of the Chair, briefly introduced the report summarising the key points contained therein.
The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report, noting that the Authority’s Building Schools for the Future programme was one of the few that had not suffered from the recent cuts announced by the Coalition Government; and it was: -
Resolved
1. That the acceptance of the final tenders from Tower Hamlets Local Enabling Partner (The LEP) for the Design and Build Contracts for Swanlea and Harpley PRU, together with such ancillary services incidental to the BSF schemes, the terms of each agreement or document to be agreed by the Corporate Director of Development and Renewal provided and conditional upon each scheme being within the target cost figure of: Swanlea £16,345,518 and Harpley £6,626,924, as set out in paragraph 3.1 of the report (CAB 021/101), be authorised;
2. That the Corporate Director of Development & Renewal be authorised to accept the final tenders for Raines Foundation and Bowden, due to be agreed during August 2010, as long as they are contained within the funding envelope of £20,341,600 and £8,968,720 respectively, as set out in paragraph 3.2 of the report (CAB 021/101) and;
3. That the Corporate Director of Development & Renewal be authorised to enter into Design and Build contracts and any other ancillary agreements, undertakings and obligations incidental to the BSF Scheme with THeLEP for each of the above projects outlined in resolutions 1. and 2. above; subject to final approval of all the contractual documents by the Assistant Chief Executive ( Legal Services) .
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Framework for Minor Works and Repairs (CAB 022/101) PDF 52 KB Additional documents:
Decision: Resolved
1. That, subject to (a) below, the option of establishing a framework agreement for Minor Works and Repairs to cover the various speciality trades as Lots, be approved;
(a) Inclusion of quality assurance mechanisms where appropriate.
2. That the use of the framework for Minor Works and Repairs be compulsory unless otherwise agreed by Service Head Procurement and Corporate Programmes; and
3. That the Corporate Director of Resources be authorised to award the framework agreement for Minor Works and Repairs to the successful bidders.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head, Procurement & Corporate Programmes, Resources (R. Parsons) Senior Procurement Manager (Category & Contract Management),Procurement & Corporate Programmes, Resources (D. Pridmore) Category Manager for Construction & Repairs, Procurement & Corporate Programmes,Resources (H. Mackie)
Minutes: Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein commenting that: the framework built on strategies approved in 2009/10, contributing to significant efficiencies to be realised from a closer management of the Council’s third party spend; the importance of which had been set out by the Lead Member Resources in introducing his motion relating on the Budget report [Agenda item 10.2] earlier in the proceedings. The Council spend on responsive repairs and minor works was in the region of £25 million per annum and historically these activities had been undertaken in a series of arrangements which the proposed framework would streamline. · The tighter framework would also bring improved opportunities for local small and medium size businesses, already supported by the Procurement Strategy which required competition for all Council spend under £25,000, and where local suppliers were preferred. · Procurement practice would also be improved with improved legal compliance. · Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented by the Vice- Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.
A short discussion followed, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · Clarification/ assurance was sought and given that the Authority’s commitments to equalities including equal pay, trade union representation/ employee rights, the London Living Wage and local business in Tower Hamlets were being accommodated by the Authority’s contractors/ suppliers and within the Framework for Minor Works and Repairs so far as was possible. · Councillor Ali, Lead Member Environment, considered that the framework should include quality assurance mechanisms for works undertaken by the Authority’s contractors, so that their performance could be monitored and appropriate action taken if this was not satisfactory; and proposed for the consideration of members of the Cabinet that the recommendations set out in the report be amended accordingly.
The Chair Moved the recommendations set out in the report (taking account of the amendment proposed by Councillor Ali); and it was: -
Resolved
1. That, subject to (a) below, the option of establishing a framework agreement for Minor Works and Repairs to cover the various speciality trades as Lots, be approved;
(a) Inclusion of quality assurance mechanisms where appropriate.
2. That the use of the framework for Minor Works and Repairs be compulsory unless otherwise agreed by Service Head Procurement and Corporate Programmes; and
3. That the Corporate Director of Resources be authorised to award the framework agreement for Minor Works and Repairs to the successful bidders.
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Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations (CAB 023/101) PDF 193 KB Decision: Councillor A. Ullah declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.5 “Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations“ (CAB 023/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future process for the allocation of Council owned property to Third Sector organisations, and Councillor Ullah was Secretary for a local voluntary organisation which currently had access to Council owned premises.
Resolved
That subject to (a) below, the recommendations in this report be agreed, specifically:
· The proposed methodology for the allocation of Council-owned property for use by Third Sector organisations through appropriate leasing arrangements and a two stage process: - A stage one: Gateway Eligibility criteria - A stage two: Strategic Assessment criteria
(a) Stage One: Gateway Eligibility criteria set out at Appendix 2 to the report be revised as follows: Question 1 Proposed use of premises provides benefits to the community: Supporting evidence provided, element c): Following text to be deleted: “Application form cross checked against the electoral roll register to demonstrate that the organisation’s board or committee has some local representation (minimum of one person)”. Following text to be inserted: “Application form cross checked against the electoral roll register to demonstrate that the organisation’s board or committee has some local representation (minimum of four persons)”.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head Strategy and Performance Chief Executive’s (L. Russell) Third Sector Strategy Manager, Strategy & Performance, Chief Executive’s (A Wallace)
Minutes: Councillor A. Ullah declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.5 “Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations“ (CAB 023/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future process for the allocation of Council owned property to Third Sector organisations, and Councillor Ullah was Secretary for a local voluntary organisation which currently had access to Council owned premises.
Please note that the order of business was varied by resolution of the Cabinet earlier in the proceedings in order to allow this item to be considered following Agenda Item 5.1 “Overview and Scrutiny - Chair’s Advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered”, however for ease of reference the deliberations of the Cabinet, and subsequent decisions taken, are set out below in the order detailed in the agenda.
Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report:, summarised the key points contained therein and addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 3rd August 2010, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented by the Vice- Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings:
A brief discussion followed which focused on the following point:- · Councillor Islam, Lead Member Regeneration and Employment, commented that the criteria for assessing applications to transfer property owned by the Council, in terms of whether the proposed use of premises provided benefits to the community, required strengthening with regard to the provision of supporting evidence from the electoral roll as to local representation on the organisation’s board/ committee. He considered local representation on such a board should comprise of at least four local residents. Councillor Islam proposed, for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, that the recommendation set out in the report be amended accordingly.
The Chair Moved the recommendation set out in the report (taking account of the amendment proposed by Councillor Islam) commenting that suspicions were sometimes raised by current arrangements for the allocation of Council property, and therefore a formalised process which added transparency was welcome; and it was: -
Resolved
That subject to (a) below, the recommendations in this report be agreed, specifically:
· The proposed methodology for the allocation of Council-owned property for use by Third Sector organisations through appropriate leasing arrangements and a two stage process: - A stage one: Gateway Eligibility criteria - A stage two: Strategic Assessment criteria
(a) Stage One: Gateway Eligibility criteria set out at Appendix 2 to the report be revised as follows: Question 1 Proposed use of premises provides benefits to the community: Supporting evidence provided, element c): Following text to be deleted: “Application form cross checked against the electoral roll register to demonstrate that the organisation’s board or committee has some local representation (minimum of one person)”. Following text to be inserted: “Application form cross checked against the electoral roll register to ... view the full minutes text for item 7.5 |
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A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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A HEALTHY COMMUNITY |
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Children Schools and Families Contract Awards (CAB 024/101) PDF 76 KB Additional documents: Decision:
Report withdrawn.
Minutes:
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the report had been withdrawn upon the advice of Ms Cattermole, Acting Corporate Director Children Schools and Families, to allow further development of the proposals, before submission to a future meeting of the Cabinet for consideration.
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ONE TOWER HAMLETS |
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Decision: Resolved
1. That the 2009/10 performance including areas where further work is needed to ensure the Authority delivers improved outcomes be noted;
2. That Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 025/101) – Annual Report Performance Summary be approved for publication on the Council’s website as an update on performance for residents;
3. That the Council’s financial position as outlined in paragraphs 5.7-17 and detailed in Appendix 5 to the report (CAB 025/101) be noted; and
4. That the transfers to and from earmarked reserves, as set out in this report (CAB 025/101) and at Appendix 6 to the report, be approved.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch) Service Head, Strategy & Performance, Resources (L. Russell)
Minutes: Councillor Peck, Deputy Leader of the Council and Councillor Edgar, Lead Member Resources highlighted key points within the report and commented as follows: · Significant achievements by the Council over the past year had included: o A reduction in the number of homeless families in temporary accommodation from 3000 to 2000 households. o A significant improvement in household waste recycling with the percentage rate approaching 30% or a 37% increase in household waste recycling.?? o A 3.4% reduction in the proportion of children in the borough living in poverty. · The above were measures of achievement, but the Coalition Government was sweeping away performance management by which public satisfaction with the provision of services by local authorities was measured, and this was not surprising given its major cuts in the funding of Public Sector Services. In this context The Council needed to re-examine how it would drive performance. · The 2009/10 outturn in the General Fund which had been almost in line with budget, with a small under-spend of £31,000, was a testament to the financial management of the Authority’s staff. However in the new environment of severe financial constraint financial management was even more important to prevent overspend. · Substantial efficiency savings had been achieved in 2009/10 but they were not of the level required. In the context of severe Government funding cuts for the Authority there was a much sharper focus on efficiency savings and it was vital to ensure these were delivered. · The report indicated that debt collection performance was below target and the importance of achieving these targets was emphasised.
A brief discussion followed which focused on the following points:- · Councillor Ullah, Lead Member Community Safety, In referring to Appendix 2 “Strategic Plan Progress Report 2009/10”,Priority 4.2 “Tackle and Prevent Crime”, Activity 62 “Develop a drug intervention and enforcement policy”, commented that this would encompass enforcement relating to the use of crack cocaine by children, although there was no evidence to suggest this was prevalent in Tower Hamlets. · Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing Heritage and Planning commended the work of Officers and of Tower Hamlets Homes in achieving the 2009/10 Housing Revenue Account outturn where there had been a minor under-spend. The performance well beyond target for service charge collection was also commended. However the target for rent collection of greater than 100% was considered to be beyond comprehension and accordingly it was requested that this be re-examined. · Consideration that the number of books borrowed was a more appropriate performance indicator than the number of visits to libraries/ Idea Stores.
The Chair Moved the recommendations set out in the report; and it was: -
Resolved
1. That the 2009/10 performance including areas where further work is needed to ensure the Authority delivers improved outcomes be noted;
2. That Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 025/101) – Annual Report Performance Summary be approved for publication on the Council’s website as an update on performance for residents;
3. That the Council’s financial position as outlined in paragraphs 5.7-17 and detailed ... view the full minutes text for item 10.1 |
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Budget 2011/12 - 2013/14 - Resource Allocation and Budget Review (CAB 026/101) PDF 137 KB Additional documents:
Decision: Motion from Councillor D. Edgar, Lead Member Resources Tabled.
Resolved
1 That the financial outlook and medium term projection set out in the report (CAB 026/101) including the announcement by the Government of public spending cuts averaging 25% over the four years from 2011/12 to 2014/15, be noted.
2 That the outcome of the review of the budget for 2010/11 and officers’ advice on the risks of additional costs falling in 2010/11- 2013/14, be noted and the Medium Term Financial forecast for 2011/12-2012/13 also be noted;
3 That the approach to developing the Strategic Plan, set out in Section 4 of the report, (CAB 026/101), be noted;
4 That the position in relation to funding for the capital programme be noted, and it be agreed that non ring-fenced capital resources from Government should be treated in the same way as locally generated funding for capital planning purposes;
5 That the position in relation to the Housing Revenue Account be noted, and a three year savings target of £4.7m by the end of 2013/14 be agreed;
6 That the Authority’s Corporate Management Team prepare service and financial planning submissions in accordance with a savings target for the General Fund revenue budget of £57.5m over the period 2011/12 to 2013/14, as set out in Appendix A to the report (CAB 026/101), and a savings target for Area Based Grants of £12.7m over the same period; giving a total savings target of £70.2m;
7 That it be agreed that the Cabinet’s priority of protecting frontline services, (in particular the priority of achieving a safe and secure community for all residents of Tower Hamlets), and the themes emerging from the Service Options Review, attached at Appendix D to the report (CAB 026/101), provide the framework for achieving the savings target of £70.2m;
8 That savings options should include an assessment of the equalities impact;
9 That the timetable set out in Appendix G to the report (CAB 026/101) be agreed;
10 That £2.5m be earmarked from General Reserves to fund work required to conclude a variation to the Council’s Grouped Schools PFI contract, and that the Chief Executive be authorised to agree expenditure of sums up to this amount; and
11 That the Corporate Director Resources be authorised to allocate reserves set aside for measures to manage transformation and improve efficiency, in order to progress work to identify savings.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch)
Minutes: Please note that the order of business was varied by resolution of the Cabinet earlier in the proceedings in order to allow this item to be considered following Agenda Item 7.5 “Allocation process for Council-owned property to Third Sector Organisations” (CAB 023/101), however for ease of reference the deliberations of the Cabinet, and subsequent decisions taken, are set out below in the order detailed in the agenda.
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Edgar, Lead Member: Resources, had Tabled a Motion in relation to the recommendations set out in the report, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting that: · The report outlined the formal Budget planning process for 2011/12 and for setting a Three Year Budget for the period 2011/12 to 2013/14. The ultimate outcome of this process would be a set of proposals which would be submitted to full Council for consideration in March 2011. · The report was one of a suite being submitted for Cabinet consideration in relation to the impact of Coalition Government announcements of cuts to Local Government funding in future years, and the Authority’s planned response to this. The financial projections were based on a number of assumptions, based on both existing announcements and indications from Government. · A key focus of the Authority’s response to the savings required by Government was to tackle this in a three year plan which optimised opportunities to close the Budget gap through achievement of savings whilst also protecting priority front-line services as far as possible. · Appendix D to the report outlined the key elements of the strategy to close the Authority’s future Budget gap.
Councillor Edgar, Lead Member Resources, in Moving the tabled motion commented that: - · It was important to place the proposals set out in the motion in the context of the existing announcement by the Coalition Government of £6.2 billion in public service spending cuts; and the response of the Authority’s Cabinet to this, in July 2010, with agreement of approximately £8 million of savings. These had focused on reducing the number of agency staff and associated spend, vacancy, performance and sickness management, bringing forward efficiency savings, utilising under-spends and bearing down on supplier costs; and had been agreed early on with a view to protecting front line services. · Since that point the Coalition Government had announced that public services, where the budget protected was not protected as a matter of policy, would face substantial spending cuts in real terms over the next four years of between 25% and 40%; a grim prospect. This was in addition to cuts in Area Based Grant (ABG), announced earlier in the year, which would have the greatest impact on boroughs that were most in need. The per capita impact of this in Tower Hamlets was double that in the Prime Minister’s constituency, and this gave some indication of the Coalition Government ... view the full minutes text for item 10.2 |
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ANY OTHER UNRESTRICTED BUSINESS CONSIDERED TO BE URGENT To consider any other unrestricted business that the Chair considers to be urgent.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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UNRESTRICTED REPORTS FOR INFORMATION |
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Treasury Management Activity for Period Ending 31 May 2010 (CAB 026/101) PDF 105 KB Decision: Resolved
That the contents of the report (CAB 026/101) be noted.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch) Chief Financial Strategy Officer, Corporate Finance, Resources (O. Shonola)
Minutes: The Chair Moved the recommendation as set out in the report and it was: -
Resolved
That the contents of the report (CAB 026/101) be noted.
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EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC In view of the contents of the remaining items on the agenda, the Committee is recommended to adopt the following motion:
“That, under the provisions of Section 100A of the Local Government Act, 1972 as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) Act, 1985, the Press and Public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting for the consideration of the Section Two business on the grounds that it contains information defined as Exempt in Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972”.
EXEMPT/CONFIDENTIAL SECTION (PINK)
Decision: Resolved:
That pursuant to regulation 21(1)(b) of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2000, the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting:
(a) As it was likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted in Section Two of the agenda, that if members of the public were present during consideration of this business there would be disclosure of exempt information.
· Exempt information is defined in section 100I and, by reference, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (“the 1972 Act”). To be exempt, information must fall within one of the categories listed in paragraphs 1 to 7 of Schedule 12A, must not fall within one of the excluded categories in paragraphs 8 and 9 and the public interest in maintaining the exemption must outweigh the public interest in disclosing the information.
o Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010) contained information Ø Relating to any individual. Ø The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). Ø Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime.
(b) As although there is a public interest favouring public access to local authority meetings, in this case the Cabinet concluded that given the information contained in:
· Agenda Item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010) relating to o any individual. o The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). o Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. that the public interest in maintaining the exemption on the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing it.
Minutes: The Chair Moved and it was: -
Resolved:
That pursuant to regulation 21(1)(b) of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2000, the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting:
(a) As it was likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted in Section Two of the agenda, that if members of the public were present during consideration of this business there would be disclosure of exempt information.
· Exempt information is defined in section 100I and, by reference, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (“the 1972 Act”). To be exempt, information must fall within one of the categories listed in paragraphs 1 to 7 of Schedule 12A, must not fall within one of the excluded categories in paragraphs 8 and 9 and the public interest in maintaining the exemption must outweigh the public interest in disclosing the information.
o Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010) contained information Ø Relating to any individual. Ø The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). Ø Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime.
(b) As although there is a public interest favouring public access to local authority meetings, in this case the Cabinet concluded that given the information contained in:
· Agenda Item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010) relating to o any individual. o The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). o Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. that the public interest in maintaining the exemption on the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing it.
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EXEMPT / CONFIDENTIAL MINUTES To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the exempt / confidential minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 7th July 2010.
Decision: Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 7th July 2010 agreed.
Minutes: Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 7th July 2010 agreed.
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OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE |
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Chair's advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Exempt / Confidential Business to be considered. Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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Any Exempt / Confidential Decisions "Called in" by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Under provisions of Article 6 Para 6.02 V of the Constitution).
Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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A PROSPEROUS COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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A HEALTHY COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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ONE TOWER HAMLETS Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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ANY OTHER EXEMPT/ CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS CONSIDERED TO BE URGENT To consider any other exempt/ confidential business that the Chair considers to be urgent.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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EXEMPT / CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS FOR INFORMATION Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: Nil Items.
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