COUNCILLOR L. RAHMAN (CHAIR) IN THE CHAIR

To receive any apologies for absence.

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:

·                    Councillor S. Islam, Deputy Leader of the Council and Vice-Chair of Cabinet.

·                    Councillor A. Asad, Chair, Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

·                    Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources for whom Mr A. Finch, Service Head Corporate Finance, Resources was deputising.

Noted.

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:

·                    Councillor S. Islam, Deputy Leader of the Council and Vice-Chair of Cabinet.

·                    Councillor A. Asad, Chair, Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

·                    Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources for whom Mr A. Finch, Service Head Corporate Finance, Resources was deputising.

Noted.

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.

Councillor Rofique. U. Ahmed declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor A. Ullah was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor O. Ahmeddeclared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund”. The declaration of interest was on the basis that Leaside Regeneration Limited had previously received funding from the Working Neighbourhood Fund and Councillor Ahmed was an employee of Leaside Regeneration Limited.

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.1 “Tower Hamlets Homelessness Strategy 2008 - 2013”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to service provision relating to domestic violence, the Gateway Housing Association operated two shelters for victims of domestic violence including those from Tower Hamlets, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.2 “Strategic Review of Supporting People Floating Support Services”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s provision of floating support services, some of which were provided by the Gateway Housing Association, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.3 “The Future of Telecare in Tower Hamlets”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.1 “Extension to Lifeline Contract for Substance Misuse Services for Children and Young People”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report made reference to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.2 “Responses to the Recommendations of the  ...  view the full decision text for item 2.

Councillor Rofique. U. Ahmed declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor A. Ullah was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor O. Ahmeddeclared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund”. The declaration of interest was on the basis that Leaside Regeneration Limited had previously received funding from the Working Neighbourhood Fund and Councillor Ahmed was an employee of Leaside Regeneration Limited.

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.1 “Tower Hamlets Homelessness Strategy 2008 - 2013”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to service provision relating to domestic violence, the Gateway Housing Association operated two shelters for victims of domestic violence including those from Tower Hamlets, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.2 “Strategic Review of Supporting People Floating Support Services”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s provision of floating support services, some of which were provided by the Gateway Housing Association, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.3 “The Future of Telecare in Tower Hamlets”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.1 “Extension to Lifeline Contract for Substance Misuse Services for Children and Young People”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report made reference to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.2 “Responses to the Recommendations of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.

To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 2^nd July 2008.

Resolved

That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 2^nd  July 2008 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.

Action by:

ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (M. KEATING)

Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services (A. Taylor)

The Chair Moved and it was: -

Resolved

That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 2^nd  July 2008 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.

To receive any deputations or petitions.

Statements Tabled by:

·                    Stakeholder in property at 47 Brick Lane

·                    Stakeholder in property at 805 Commercial Road

Resolved

1.         That the following deputations be formally received and noted: -

·              Mr H. Uddin, Stakeholder in property at 47 Brick Lane, in respect of Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089).

·              Mr M. A Matin and Ms J. Matin, Stakeholders in property at 805 Commercial Road, in respect of Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089).

2.         That the points raised by the deputations be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the item of business to which the deputations related; and

3.         That any outstanding issues raised by the deputation be referred to the Corporate Director Development and Renewal 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:

INTERIM CORPORATE DIRECTOR – DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (P. EVANS)

Service Head Major Project Development, Development and Renewal (O. Whalley)

Empty Property and Compulsory Purchase Officer, Private Housing Improvement, Development and Renewal (C. Ward/ J. Embleton)

At this juncture the Chair Informed members of the Cabinet that the Acting Assistant Chief Executive had received two valid requests, from:

·                    A representative of stakeholders in the property at 47 Brick Lane, London E1 6PU

·                    A representative of stakeholders in the property at 805 Commercial Road, London E14 7HG

to address them in respect of Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089).

The Chair also indicated that hhe considered it appropriate that the Order of Business be varied so that following receipt of deputations, consideration be given to Agenda item 5.1 “Chair’s Advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered”, because the clerk had advised that the report which was the subject matter of the deputations would also be the subject of matters to be raised by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

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 deputations Agenda item 5.1 “Chair’s Advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered” be considered next, thereafter Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089), 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 both the deputation relating to 47 Brick Lane and that relating to 805 Commercial Road, copies of which would be interleaved with the minutes.

Following receipt of the deputations, points of clarification sought and given, and a short address from Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development, the Chair thanked both deputations for coming to address the Cabinet.  The Chair also, in Moving the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, summarised that a decision by the Cabinet to authorise compulsory purchase action would not automatically result in the serving of such a notice and immediate compulsory purchase of the properties concerned, but would trigger a process which might result in such an outcome and during which the stakeholders would have ample opportunity to engage with the Council to identify any realistic options to address the matters of concern to the Council.

and it was: -

Resolved

1.         That the following deputations be formally received and noted: -

·              Mr H. Uddin, Stakeholder in property at 47 Brick Lane, in respect of Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089).

·              Mr M. A Matin and Ms J. Matin, Stakeholders in property at 805 Commercial Road, in respect of Agenda Item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089).

2.         That the points raised by the deputations be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the item of business to which the deputations related; and

3.         That  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

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 29^th July 2008.

Two Sheets arising from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 29^th July 2008 Tabled on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee:-

·                    Detailing key issues or questions relating to unrestricted business to be considered (pre-scrutiny questions).

·                     Detailing the advice / comments relating to the Budget and Policy Framework report at Agenda item 10.3 “Resource Allocation and Budget Review 2009/10 - 2010/11” (CAB 033/089)

Resolved

That the questions/ comments/ advice 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 and

comments related.

Action by:

ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (M. KEATING)

Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services (A. Taylor)

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that:-

·                    A sheet of questions/ comments arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in respect of the unrestricted business contained in the agenda for consideration; and

·                    A sheet of advice/ comments arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in respect of Budget and Policy Framework reports contained in the agenda for consideration.

had been Tabled on behalf of Councillor Asad, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, copies of which would be interleaved with the minutes.

Mr Keating, Acting Assistant Chief Executive, addressed members of the Cabinet, in the absence of the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee as follows:-

·                    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: -

o                   Agenda item 6.1 “Recycling Improvement Plan for Tower Hamlets” (CAB 018/089)

o                   Agenda item 6.2 “Review of Public Footway Trading Fees and Charges 2008/2009” (CAB 019/089)

o                   Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089)

o                   Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/2010” (CAB 021/089)

o                   Agenda item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund” (CAB 031/089)

·                    Budget and Policy Framework matters

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: -

o                   Agenda item 10.3 “Resource Allocation and Budget Review 2009/10 – 2010/11” (CAB 033/089)

The Chair Moved and it was: -

Resolved

That the questions/ comments/ adviceof 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/ advice related.

(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 29^th July 2008. Should the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, upon consideration, refer the reports 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)                 London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, Draft Bromley-by-Bow Land Use Design Brief (CAB 014/089)

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that no provisional decisions made by the Cabinet, at its meeting held on 2^nd July 2008, had been referred back to Cabinet, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, for further consideration.

Resolved:

That the actions set out in the Recycling Improvement Plan 2008 - 2011 summarised at section 4 of the report (CAB 018/089) be endorsed.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES & CULTURE

(S. HALSEY)

Head of Waste Management, Waste Management, Communities, Localities & Culture, (F. Heyland)

Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair in introducing the report:

·                    Briefly summarised the salient points contained therein:

o                    Highlighting in particular that since 2005/06, when Tower Hamlets had recorded the lowest recycling level in England and Wales, there had been a step change in performance but this still fell short of achieving the Government target.  The Authority had therefore agreed a service improvement growth bid, during the 2008/09 Budget process, of approximately £1.85 million, to be used to improve recycling performance.

o                    Drawing particular attention to the action plan set out at Section 4 of the report which set out the specific initiatives which would close the gap between current performance and Government target over the 3 years to the end of 2011, resourced in part by the service improvement growth referred to above, and focused on the best opportunities to improve recycling performance base on an independent waste analysis for Tower Hamlets.

·                    Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.

A comprehensive discussion followed, during which the Authority’s proposed Recycling Improvement Plan was broadly welcomed, but which also identified areas where the plan could be strengthened including:-

·                    Placement of young people at the heart of the improvement plan in particular through recruitment to the boroughwide network of resident “Recycling Champions”, and opportunities for the Young Mayor to act as an advocate for such initiatives linked to youth participation work both in a commercial and academic setting.

·                    A robust communications strategy for the initiatives within the Recycling Improvement Plan before they were implemented, and a particular a strand that informed residents how to make good use of the Garden Waste Collection Service.

·                    Recognition during implementation of the planned initiative for food waste recycling in high rise properties that this should apply not only to tenanted social housing but also to privately owned properties of this type, if performance was to move forward. In particular, whilst noting that this type of initiative required significant levels of investment, that a pilot scheme for private rented high rise property be introduced between January and April 2009.

·                    Bringing forward initiatives to work with the owners of free papers, such as London Lite and Metro, and transport operators to minimise waste and maximise recycling particularly in the vicinity of transport hubs.

Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, and Ms Heyland, Waste Services Group Manager, Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, responded to requests for clarification/ assurance, in relation to a number or matters including:-

·                    Capacity of the Authority’s waste collection/ recycling contractor to deliver services at the required level for example in relation to food waste regular collection was essential in order to avoid long storage periods outside properties.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.1

Resolved:

1.         That the levels of fees and charges for Footway Licensing in Tower Hamlets as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 019/089), effective from 1^st September 2008, be approved, subject to a 28 day period of consultation with footway licensees following publication of a Notice of Variation of Charges to be issued by the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture;

2.         That the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture undertake further consultation with the Footway Licensees on the fees and charges set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 019/089); and

3.         That the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture be authorised to set the final level of fees and charges for footway licensing following the outcome of consultation.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES & CULTURE

(S. HALSEY)

Service Head Environmental Control, Communities, Localities & Culture (B. Jones)

Head of Markets, Market Services, Communities, Localities & Culture

(D. Saunders)

Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report:

·                    Briefly summarised the salient points contained therein.

·                    Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.

Councillor Ullah, Lead Member Cleaner, Safer, Greener, informed members of the Cabinet that Members had expressed concerns to him, and he had relayed these to the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, that Brick Lane was a popular tourist destination, the public footways there were built in a different era and not suitable for alfresco dining, and as a consequence in that specific area the public right of way on the footways should take precedence over the wishes of others who wanted to dine there.

The Chair commented that it was well known that Brick Lane was a national tourist attraction with a thriving business community and the activities there were to be celebrated.  However this exceptional success also brought with it large numbers of visitors and the existing footways did not have sufficient capacity to cope, resulting in the visitors walking on the highway putting themselves and others in danger. He therefore considered that this situation should not be exacerbated by the licensing of tables and chairs on the footways, and that Brick Lane should be treated as an exception from the proposed licensing regime.

Mr Saunders, Head of Markets, Communities, Localities and Culture, responded that a survey conducted by Officers of the Authority on foot, together with review of CCTV footage, had confirmed the concerns expressed by the Chair and Lead Member; consequently he gave an assurance that should the proposed licensing regime be agreed by the Cabinet it would not apply to Brick Lane.

Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, and Mr Saunders, Head of Markets, Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, responded to requests for clarification/ assurance, in relation to a number or matters including:-

·                    Whether Licensed Street Traders would fall within the scope of the proposed licensing regime and consultation arrangements in this regard.

·                    Whether staffing levels were sufficient to ensure adequate enforcement of the proposed policy

·                    Potential measures to relocate commercial waste bins off the public footway.

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report and it was: -

Resolved:

1.         That the levels of fees and charges for Footway Licensing in Tower Hamlets as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 019/089), effective from 1^st September 2008, be approved, subject to a 28 day period of consultation with footway licensees following publication of a Notice of Variation of Charges to be issued by the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture;

2.         That the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture undertake further consultation with the Footway Licensees on  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.2

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Resolved

1.         That the land and buildings at 47 Brick Lane, 805 Commercial Road, 122 Bethnal Green Road, and 109 Wellington Row, as identified on the plan attached at Appendix 5 (Exempt/ confidential appendix – part two of the agenda), be made the subject of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) under the provisions of Section 17 of the Housing Act 1985 for the purpose of providing housing accommodation;

2.         That the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal) be authorised, after consultation with the Lead Member Housing and Development, to take all necessary steps to:

(a)       make and obtain confirmation of the Compulsory Purchase Order

(b)       obtain possession of the properties and land following confirmation

(c)        complete the acquisition of the properties and land and effect immediate disposal in line with the Council’s strategic regeneration objectives;

3.         That a capital estimate of £1,590,000 within the Housing Investment Programme 2008/09 and 2009/10 be adopted to allow the purchase by the Authority of the Freehold interests in the properties referred to in resolution.1 above, inclusive of legal costs and possible interest payments on fees;

4.         That the Interim Corporate Director of Development & Renewal be authorised, after consultation with Lead Member Housing and Development to enter into negotiations to acquire the four properties by agreement, failing which a CPO will be made. The properties will then be sold on the open market with prospective purchasers entering into a binding legal agreement to renovate the properties and bring them back into residential use; and

5.         That the resources generated from the sale of the properties be used to regenerate the local area by bringing empty properties back into circulation.  They will therefore be 100% usable.  The receipts will then be earmarked from the Local Priorities Programme to retrospectively fund the purchase of the properties cited in resolution 1 above.

Action by:

INTERIM CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT & RENEWAL

(P. EVANS)

Service Head, Major Project Development, Development and Renewal (O. Whalley)

Empty Property & Compulsory Purchase Officers, Development & Renewal (C. Ward) (J. Embleton)

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.

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Mr Evans, Interim Corporate Director Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report:

·                         Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29th July 2008, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings; and also the matters raised by the deputations in relation to the report earlier in the proceedings.

·                         Informed members of the Cabinet that:

o              Compulsory purchase was a longstanding policy of the Authority to bring empty properties into effective use, in relation to meeting housing need in the Borough, and to mitigate any detrimental impact to the local environment of properties in poor condition, and not to deprive owners of their property. The policy sat within a wider strategic context of achieving housing regeneration within the Borough.

o              That although Cabinet authorisation was being sought for compulsory purchase action by Officers of the Authority, in relation to 4 properties, should they secure action by the owners of these properties, which addressed the concerns of the Authority that had prompted the proposals, within a realistic timeframe, there would be no need to proceed with such action. They may also wish to consider specifying what such a realistic timeframe might be.

o              Paragraph 3.4 of the report contained a substantive error in detailing that the property at 805 Commercial Road had been empty for 15 years as the Authority’s records indicated this period to be approximately 10 years.

Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development:

·                    Commented that:

o                   The compulsory purchase proposals had emerged against a backdrop of an acute housing crisis in London and were part of a longer term strategy to raise the condition of property within the Borough to an appropriate level in order to optimise its usage and also to ensure the quality of neighbourhoods was maintained.

o              Over 400 long term empty properties had been identified in the Borough which indicated that the Authority’s current approach of encouraging voluntary action by property owners and using compulsory purchase powers as a last resort  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.3

Councillors Rofique. U. Ahmed and A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda Item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10” shortly after commencement of Cabinet consideration of this item of business, and withdrew from the proceedings for the remainder of the consideration of this item of business, being 6.45pm.

Councillor Rofique. U. Ahmed declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor A. Ullah was an LBTH leaseholder.

Resolved:

That the proposals set out in section 4 of the report (CAB 021/089) be agreed.

Action by:

INTERIM CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT & RENEWAL

(P. EVANS)

Interim Service Head Housing Strategy & Development, Development & Renewal (J. Odunoye)

Interim Housing Strategy Manager (A. Cahill)

Councillors Rofique. U. Ahmed and A. Ullah re-entered the proceedings following the conclusion of the Cabinet deliberations in respect of this item, being 6.50pm.

Councillors Rofique. U. Ahmed and A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda Item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10” shortly after commencement of Cabinet consideration of this item of business, and withdrew from the proceedings for the remainder of the consideration of this item of business, being 6.45pm.

Councillor Rofique. U. Ahmed declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor A. Ullah declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to London Borough of Tower Hamlets leaseholders and Councillor A. Ullah was an LBTH leaseholder.

Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development:

·                    Commented that members of the Cabinet would recall that at their last meeting, held on 2^nd July 2008, their deliberations had included discussion of ways in which to invest approximately £4 million, of the identified increase in Housing Revenue Account reserves, with a view to delivering transformational change on estates and emergency measures to alleviate the worst aspects of housing need in Tower Hamlets; and the report before them set out costed proposals as to how to do so.

·                    Highlighted the key points contained in the report as follows:-

o          Additional resources for initiatives to relieve overcrowding including:

¨    Targeted knock-throughs to proactively increase the supply of larger homes

¨    Increased incentivisation for under-occupying tenants to move to a smaller home, including increased cash incentive payments.

o          Additional resources for the Estate Improvement Programme encompassing an expansion of the block cleaning programme (a “deep clean”), painting of stairwells, lighting improvements, environmental works to play areas, improved paving and roads and improvements to bin stores and sheds.

o          Additional resources for estate/ block security improvements with Members suggestions welcomed as to how this might be prioritised.

o          Additional resources for improved horticultural maintenance, including revised performance monitoring arrangements to assess the capacity of the Authority’s contractor to deliver the intense programme of work envisaged, and termination of the contract if appropriate.

o          Additional resources for adaption of homes for the disabled and elderly, with consideration to be given to funding additional internal decoration for the elderly, the current policy being 2 rooms for those over 80 years of age.

o          A further rebate for Tower Hamlets leaseholders, in relation to the administration charge in 2007/8, in recognition that services delivered have not been of an appropriate standard nor delivered sufficient value for money.

·                    Concluded that the programme of housing initiatives set out in the report were short term and it was his intention to bring forward a longer term strategy with particular reference to the provision of social for rent homes in three months time.

Councillor O. Ahmed, Lead Member Regeneration, Localisation and Community Partnerships commented  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.4

Special circumstances and reasons for urgency Agreed.

Resolved:

1.         That the consortium Bouygues Partnership for Education and Community (BPEC) be granted Selected Bidder status in relation to the Authority’s procurement of its Building Schools for the Future programme;

2.         That the Corporate Director Children’s Services be authorised, after consultation with the Corporate Director Resources, the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal) and Lead Member Children’s Services to:

i           approve and sign on behalf of the Authority the letter granting Selected Bidder status, having resolved any outstanding commercial issues within the Council’s affordability envelope;

ii          meet the Selected Bidder costs in the event that Contractual Close cannot be achieved by 31st December 2008, authorise the approval of the Final Business Case, finalise and execute any documents, agreements and any ancillary documents required to implement the Building Schools for the Future programme;

3.         That the Corporate Director Resources be authorised to sign the Certificates required by Section 3 of the Local Government (Contracts) Act 1997;

4.         That the adoption of a capital estimate for the Wessex Centre of £4.0m be approved and the Corporate Director, Children Services be authorised to approve the acceptance of the related tender for the Wessex Centre, within the agreed funding allocation of £4.0m including works, fees and Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment; and

5.         That the Corporate Director, Children Services proceed to tender for the D&B contract to deliver the new HUB facilities at the Wessex Centre.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS)

Service Head, Building Schools for the Future,Children’s Services (A. Sutcliffe)

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the special circumstances and reasons for urgency associated with the proposals were detailed on the front page of the report. The Cabinet subsequently agreed the special circumstances and reasons for urgency as set out on the front page of the report and also set out below:

·                    The report was unavailable for public inspection within the standard timescales set out in the Authority’s Constitution, because of the continuation of legal negotiations between the parties which it had been anticipated would be completed in time for publication of the agenda for this meeting of the Cabinet.

·                    Chief Officers recommend that a cabinet decision in respect of the selection of the Selected Bidder is taken at the earliest opportunity to ensure that the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme can be implemented within the timescales for the reasons set out in the report.

Mr Collins, Corporate Director Children’s Services, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the salient points contained therein and in particular:

·                    Outlined the next stages in the procurement timeline for the BSF Wave 3 Programme: Selection of a Preferred Bidder in August 2008, Financial Close in December 2008 and start of construction at St Paul’s Way School by January 2009.

·                    Highlighted that the BSF funding envelope had increased from approximately £185 million, when this matter was last discussed by the Cabinet, to approximately £240 million, following negotiations between the Authority and the Department of Schools and Families. Also  highlighted the transformation of the school estate in the 21^st Century, the new sixth form at Bethnal Green and new secondary school that this funding would yield.

·                    Outlined difficulties encountered during the procurement process to date, and the close scrutiny that the one remaining bidder had been placed under by the Partnership for Schools advisers to ensure achievement of value for money and delivery of the BSF programme outcomes for the young people of Tower Hamlets.

·                    Summarised the background of Bouygues Partnership for Education and Community, the partner identified by the procurement process for its capacity to deliver the BSF Programme and also to drive up standards.

Councillor Hawkins, Lead Member Children’s Services:

·                    Welcomed the major proposals set out in the report for their potential to transform the teaching and learning community.

·                    Thanked the Officer Team for their contribution to the achievement of the positive position the Authority now found itself in, in relation to the BSF Programme, a priority for the Council.

·                    Commented that the Authority was committing substantial resources to the BSF Programme and she therefore wanted to assure her Cabinet colleagues that the proposed decision was robust. Accordingly Councillor Hawkins requested that the Corporate Director Children’s Services detail the checks and balances in the legal framework, associated with the proposals, which ensured quality and value for money and also to give an assurance to members of the Cabinet that the proposals were financially robust in the context of the current economic downturn, driven by  ...  view the full minutes text for item 7.1

Resolved:

That the prescribed alteration, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 023/089), be approved in accordance with the School Organisation Regulations 2007, to establish the Cambridge Heath Sixth Form on the basis set out in the body of the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS)

Service Head, Young People & Learning, Children’s Services (C. Littleton)

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report and it was: -

Resolved:

That the prescribed alteration, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 023/089), be approved in accordance with the School Organisation Regulations 2007, to establish the Cambridge Heath Sixth Form on the basis set out in the body of the report.

Resolved:

1.         That the reconstitution of the Schools Forum with the Terms of Reference and revised membership, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 024/089), be agreed with effect from 31 August 2008;

2.         That, in future, appointments to the Schools Forum be made at the start of the academic year (September); and

3.                  That the terms of reference at Appendix A and the Good Practice Guide at Appendix B of the report (CAB 024/089), which have been drafted in consultation with Legal Services to reflect the new membership and requirements of the Schools Forum (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2008, be approved.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS)

Service Head Resources Children’s Services (I. Cattermole)

Head of Pupil & Student Services, Children’s Services (H. Franek)

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report and it was: -

Resolved:

1.         That the reconstitution of the Schools Forum with the Terms of Reference and revised membership, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 024/089), with effect from 31 August 2008, be agreed.

2.         That it be agreed that, in future, appointments to the Schools Forum are made at the start of the academic year (September).

3.                  That the terms of reference at Appendix A and the Good Practice Guide at Appendix B of the report (CAB 024/089),  which have been drafted in consultation with Legal Services to reflect the new membership and requirements of the Schools Forum (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 be approved.

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.1 “Tower Hamlets Homelessness Strategy 2008 - 2013”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to service provision relating to domestic violence, the Gateway Housing Association operated two shelters for victims of domestic violence including those from Tower Hamlets, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Resolved:

1.         That the Tower Hamlets Homelessness Strategy 2008-2013 and associated action plan attached at Appendix A and B respectively to the report (CAB 025/089), be approved; and

2.         That the Partnership Management Group of the Tower Hamlets Partnership be invited to endorse the strategy as a homelessness strategy for the Partnership as a whole.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR ADULTS HEALTH & WELLBEING (J. GOLDUP)

Head of Homelessness and Housing Advice Services, Adults Health and Wellbeing (C. Cormack)

Strategy Manager, Strategy and Performance, Adults Health and Wellbeing (D. Baker)

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.1 “Tower Hamlets Homelessness Strategy 2008 - 2013”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to service provision relating to domestic violence, the Gateway Housing Association operated two shelters for victims of domestic violence including those from Tower Hamlets, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Mr Goldup, Corporate Director Adults Health and Wellbeing, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: briefly summarised the salient points contained therein highlighting in particular that the key theme running through the proposed strategy and associated action plan, which was the product of detailed work and consultation, was that further improvements in the prevention and support of homelessness within Tower Hamlets required commitment and involvement across the Council and Partnership and could not be delivered by Housing Services alone.

Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development:

·                    Informed members of the Cabinet that the proposed Homelessness Strategy was the product of a statutory obligation upon the Authority, under the Homelessness Act 2002, to adopt a strategic and preventionist approach to homelessness by undertaking a review of homelessness in its area every five years. He considered the five year review undertaken in 2007/08 was a good model for other authorities to follow, particularly because of the engagement of stakeholders, such as “Crisis” (the homeless policy/ research/ campaign group), in the review.

·                    Commented that in Tower Hamlets:

o          Some of the worst aspects of the homelessness crisis had already been addressed:

¨        The number of rough sleepers had been reduced every night.

¨        The practice of placement of families with children in long term bed and breakfast accommodation had ceased.

¨        The numbers of homeless people housed in temporary accommodation had been significantly reduced.

o          Positive improvements had also been made in the delivery of services to the homeless for example relocation of the service from the Isle of Dogs to a more accessible central location in the Borough, now recognised as a model facility. The quality of the service had also recently received renewed recognition from Government with the award of the Charter Mark.

o          There was a continuing demand from the homeless and he considered the level of homelessness in Tower Hamlets to be driven by exceptionally high levels of overcrowding and therefore mitigating action in this area was key to its further reduction.

o          The setting of a target to reduce the number of households in temporary accommodation in Tower Hamlets by half (of 2005 levels) by 2010 had been a positive advance.

o          The proposed measures to support vulnerable people through supported tenancies should be extended to include the use of the private rented sector.

o          The proposed review of priority categories affecting homeless households was welcome for its advancement of the housing need agenda in Tower Hamlets.

·                    Extended his thanks to:

o                    Mr Cormack, Head of Homelessness and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.1

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.2 “Strategic Review of Supporting People Floating Support Services”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s provision of floating support services, some of which were provided by the Gateway Housing Association, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

Resolved:

1          That that the services identified in paragraph. 4.2 of the report (CAB 026/089) be decommissioned, as set out in section 5,, with effect from 1^st June 2009;

2.         That a competitive tendering process be conducted to procure a new pattern of services as set out in section 6 of the report (CAB 026/089);

3.                  That the Corporate Director Adult Health and Wellbeing be authorised to enter into contracts arising from the procurement process recommended in resolution 2 above, after consultation with the Supporting People Commissioning Body and the Lead Member, Health and Wellbeing; subject to the availability of resources following the review of Area Based Grant.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR ADULTS HEALTH & WELLBEING (J. GOLDUP)

Service Head Commissioning & Strategy, Adults Health and Wellbeing (H. Taylor)

Supporting People Manager, Supporting People, Adults Health & Wellbeing (C. Kilpatrick)

Councillor J Peckdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.2 “Strategic Review of Supporting People Floating Support Services”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s provision of floating support services, some of which were provided by the Gateway Housing Association, and Councillor Peck was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of the Gateway Housing Association.

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report and it was: -

Resolved:

1          That that the services identified in paragraph. 4.2 of the report (CAB 026/089) be decommissioned, as set out in section 5,, with effect from 1^st June 2009;

2.         That a competitive tendering process be conducted to procure a new pattern of services as set out in section 6 of the report (CAB 026/089);

3.                  That the Corporate Director Adult Health and Wellbeing be authorised to enter into contracts arising from the procurement process recommended in resolution 2 above, after consultation with the Supporting People Commissioning Body and the Lead Member, Health and Wellbeing; subject to the availability of resources following the review of Area Based Grant.

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.3 “The Future of Telecare in Tower Hamlets”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Resolved:

1.         That Telecare services should in future be available as a preventive service to people with low or moderate needs for care and support, rather than one restricted to those with substantial or critical needs as defined by the Council’s eligibility criteria for community care services;

2.         That Telecare (including the existing Care Alarm service) should be a free service; and

3.         That that the policy changes referred to in resolutions 1 and 2 above be effective from 1^st October 2008.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR ADULTS HEALTH & WELLBEING (J. GOLDUP)

Service Head Older People and Homelessness, Adult Services Management Team, Adults Health & Wellbeing (J. Roog)

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 8.3 “The Future of Telecare in Tower Hamlets”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor Ali, Lead Member Health and Wellbeing:

·                    Welcomed the proposals set out in the report for the future development of the Telecare programme, commenting that these would:

o          Significantly improve the quality of life of elderly and frail members of the Community and in particular meet their preference to retain their homes and independence for as long as they were able.

o          Manage the demand for more expensive services provided by the Authority, which was particularly important in the context of the expected considerable rise in the number of people requiring community based health and social care support over the next decade, together with the level and complexity of that need.

·                    Extended her thanks to the Officer Team for their excellent work in the review of current arrangements and development of the proposals.

Mr Goldup, Corporate Director Adults Health and Wellbeing, at the request of the Chair, responded to requests for clarification/ assurance, in relation to the following:-

·                    Whether a commitment had been made to those residents who had paid for Telecare services beyond the point at which these would become free, to refund the balance, and whether they had been proactively contacted by the Authority in this regard.

·                    Whether there had been a proactive effort by the Authority to engage with potential users of Telecare services to encourage the take up of the free service.

The Chair in Moving the recommendations as set out in the report, commented that the proposals demonstrated the commitment of the Administration to care for the elderly members of the Community; and it was:-

Resolved:

1.         That Telecare services should in future be available as a preventive service to people with low or moderate needs for care and support, rather than one restricted to those with substantial or critical needs as defined by the Council’s eligibility criteria for community care services;

2.         That Telecare (including the existing Care Alarm service) should be a free service; and

3.         That that the policy changes referred to in resolutions 1 and 2 above be effective from 1^st October 2008.

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.1 “Extension to Lifeline Contract for Substance Misuse Services for Children and Young People”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report made reference to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Resolved:

1.         That authorisation be given, pursuant to Procurement Procedures paragraph 2.1.1 (b), for an exception to the general provisions of paragraphs 2.5.1 (requirement for 6 tenders) and 2.5.2 (requirement for public notice) of the Procedures in respect of the proposed contract extension; and

2.         That the Corporate Director Children’s Services be authorised to extend the contract with Lifeline for the provision of support and treatment for young people suffering from substance misuse for six months, subject to satisfactory performance against the objectives set out in the existing contract.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS)

Service Head Strategy, Partnerships and Performance,Strategy Commissioning & Partnerships, Children’s Services (N. Parish)

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.1 “Extension to Lifeline Contract for Substance Misuse Services for Children and Young People”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report made reference to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report, and it was: -

Resolved:

1.         That authorisation be given, pursuant to Procurement Procedures paragraph 2.1.1 (b), for an exception to the general provisions of paragraphs 2.5.1 (requirement for 6 tenders) and 2.5.2 (requirement for public notice) of the Procedures in respect of the proposed contract extension; and

2.         That the Corporate Director Children’s Services be authorised to extend the contract with Lifeline for the provision of support and treatment for young people suffering from substance misuse for six months, subject to satisfactory performance against the objectives set out in the existing contract.

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.2 “Responses to the Recommendations of the Health Scrutiny Panel - Tobacco Cessation”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Resolved:

1. That subject to (a) below the Action Plan attached at Appendix A to the report (CAB 029/089), in response to the recommendations from the Health Scrutiny Panel Working Group on Tobacco Cessation, be approved;

Addition of new Recommendation 10.

That in relation to the various tobacco cessation initiatives set out in the action plan the Primary Care Trust undertake a locally focused communications campaign utilising local expertise (eg Council expertise in targeting BME communities) and resources (eg BME media) to an optimum;

2.                  That the contents of the report of the Health Scrutiny Panel Working Group on Tobacco Cessation, attached at Appendix B to the report (CAB 029/089), together with the findings and associated conclusions/ recommendations be noted.

Action by

ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (M. KEATING)

Scrutiny Policy Officer,Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (S. Matin)

Councillor A Alideclared a personal interest in Agenda item 9.2 “Responses to the Recommendations of the Health Scrutiny Panel - Tobacco Cessation”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and Councillor Ali was an employee of the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (partner in general practitioner’s practice in Spitalfields).

Councillor Ali, Lead Member Health and Wellbeing, welcomed the report of the Health Scrutiny Panel, as reflective of the excellent review which it had conducted, but believed that it did not sufficiently address the need to target the significant number of Bangladeshi smokers in Tower Hamlets. Councillor Ali considered that the various tobacco cessation initiatives set out in the Action Plan should have a local focus, for example using the stories of local residents and workers as a vehicle for the desired message to unfold. Also that the Primary Care Trust should optimise the use of local resources, such as a developed BME media, and utilise local expertise, for example that of the Authority in reaching BME communities, in the associated communications campaign.  Accordingly Councillor Ali proposed the following amendment to the recommendation contained in paragraph 2.1 of the report, for the consideration of members of the Cabinet:-

“That the Action Plan attached at Appendix A to the report be approved subject to the addition of a new recommendation that in relation to the various tobacco cessation initiatives set out in the action plan the Primary Care Trust undertake a locally focused communications campaign utilising local expertise (eg Council expertise in targeting BME communities) and resources (eg BME media) to an optimum.”

Mr Keating, Acting Assistant Chief Executive, advised that the Health Scrutiny Panel would review progress in relation to the Action Plan, at their meeting to be held in November 2008, and Councillor Ali’s proposal would be further discussed at that point.

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the recommendation contained in paragraph 2.1 requested Cabinet approval of the action plan whilst that contained in paragraph 2.2 requested that Cabinet consider the report of the Health Scrutiny Panel Working Group. Accordingly the Chair Moved the following motion, taking account of the amendment proposed by Councillor Ali, for the consideration of members of the Cabinet and it was: -

Resolved:

1. That subject to (a) below the Action Plan attached at Appendix A to the report (CAB 029/089), in response to the recommendations from the Health Scrutiny Panel Working Group on Tobacco Cessation, be approved;

Addition of new Recommendation 10.

That in relation to the various tobacco cessation initiatives set out in the action plan the Primary Care Trust undertake a locally focused communications campaign utilising local expertise (eg Council expertise in targeting BME communities) and resources (eg BME media) to an optimum;

2.                  That the contents of the report of the Health Scrutiny Panel Working Group on Tobacco Cessation, attached at Appendix B to the report (CAB 029/089),  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.2

Resolved:

That, subject to (a) below, the proposed Governance Structure for the Tower Hamlets Partnership, attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 030/089) be approved and implemented from September 2008: -

(a)       Local Area Partnership Steering Groups operating arrangements – Revision to allow for co-chairing by a local resident.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE

(S. HALSEY)

Interim Director of Tower Hamlets Partnership, Tower Hamlets Partnership Communities, Localities And Culture(S. Hussain)

Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the salient points contained therein.

Councillor O. Ahmed, Lead Member Regeneration, Localisation and Community Partnerships:

·                    Welcomed the report commenting that the Tower Hamlets Partnership would remain strong as a result of the governance refresh. In particular he welcomed the proposal set out in Appendix 1 to the report that Community Plan Delivery Groups would be co-chaired by a relevant Lead Member and a lead partner.

·                    Considered that it was appropriate that the empowerment of stakeholders within the Partnership Governance arrangements be extended further through a facility for co-chairing of Local Area Partnership (LAP) Steering Groups by a local resident.

·                    Accordingly proposed an amendment to the recommendation contained in paragraph 2.1 of the report, for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, as follows:-

“That the Governance Structure for the Tower Hamlets Partnership, attached at Appendix 1 to the report be approved subject to a revision to Local Area Partnership Steering Groups operating arrangements to allow for co-chairing by a local resident.”

The Chair in Moving the recommendations as set out in the report, taking account of the amendment proposed by Councillor O. Ahmed:

·                    Commented that the proposals reflected the genuine desire of the Authority for partnership with stakeholders and residents and enhanced the synergy between delivery groups and LAP Steering Groups

·                    Commented further that the amendment to the recommendations proposed by the Lead Member Regeneration, Localisation and Community Partnerships would engage and empower residents by providing for co-chairing at grass roots level; and it was:-

·                    Extended his thanks, and that of the Cabinet, to Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, and Ms Hussain, Interim Director of Tower Hamlets Partnership, for their excellent work in the review of current governance arrangements and development of the proposals.

Resolved:

That, subject to (a) below, the proposed Governance Structure for the Tower Hamlets Partnership, attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 030/089) be approved and implemented from September 2008: -

(a)       Local Area Partnership Steering Groups operating arrangements – Revision to allow for co-chairing by a local resident.

Councillors O. Ahmed having declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda Item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund” withdrew from the proceedings at the commencement of consideration of this item of business, being 7.25pm.

Councillor O. Ahmeddeclared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund”. The declaration of interest was on the basis that Leaside Regeneration Limited had previously received funding from the Working Neighbourhood Fund and Councillor Ahmed was an employee of Leaside Regeneration Limited.

Resolved:

1.         That the level of Working Neighbourhood Fund funding available in 2008/09 and the two subsequent financial years be noted;

2.         That the commissioning strategy for the Working Neighbourhoods Fund, set out at Appendix A of the report (CAB 031/089), be agreed; and

3.         That the commissioning process involving the Tower Hamlets Partnership set out at Appendix B to the report (CAB 031/089),  including addressing the key issues for decision in section 4, be agreed.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR)

INTERIM CORPORATE DIRECTOR – DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (P. EVANS)

CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE

(S. HALSEY)

Councillor O. Ahmed re-entered the proceedings following the conclusion of the Cabinet deliberations in respect of this item, being 7.38pm.

Councillor O. Ahmed having declared a prejudicial interest in Agenda Item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund” withdrew from the proceedings at the commencement of consideration of this item of business, being 7.25pm.

Councillor O. Ahmeddeclared a prejudicial interest in Agenda item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund”. The declaration of interest was on the basis that Leaside Regeneration Limited had previously received funding from the Working Neighbourhood Fund and Councillor Ahmed was an employee of Leaside Regeneration Limited.

Mr Evans, Interim Corporate Director Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair in introducing the report:

·                    Briefly summarised the salient points contained therein including:-

o                    That Working Neighbourhoods Fund (WNF) a new Government funding stream would supersede the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund (NRF) in relation to funding intervention at local level to address strategic objectives arising from the Community Plan.

o                    That the strategy set out objectives to target resources to achieve maximum benefit and a commissioning approach to achieve this.

·                    Drawing particular attention to the table set out at Appendix A “Working Neighbourhoods Fund (WNF) Strategy Statement” Section 4 “Programme Streams” which identified the significant elements of the programme in relation to Local Area Agreement targets these aimed to address but also acknowledged longer term objectives and the need to target hard to reach groups. It also identified the availability of larger scale funding available in relation to the targets with a view to collective targeting of resources.

·                    Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.

Mr Evans, Interim Corporate Director Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair, responded to a request for clarification/ assurance, in relation to the amount of Working Neighbourhoods Fund resources already allocated or commissioned without specific Cabinet approval.

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report, and it was: -

Resolved:

1.         That the level of Working Neighbourhood Fund funding available in 2008/09 and the two subsequent financial years be noted;

2.         That the commissioning strategy for the Working Neighbourhoods Fund, set out at Appendix A of the report (CAB 031/089), be agreed; and

3.         That the commissioning process involving the Tower Hamlets Partnership set out at Appendix B to the report (CAB 031/089),  including addressing the key issues for decision in section 4, be agreed.

Councillor O. Ahmed re-entered the proceedings following the conclusion of the Cabinet deliberations in respect of this item, being 7.38pm.

Motion Tabled by Councillor J. Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance

Resolved:

1.         That the financial outlook and draft medium term projection set out in the body of the report (CAB 033/089), be noted;

2.         That it be agreed that revenue budget inflation should be funded at the levels set out in the body of the report (CAB 033/089), and that any inflation in excess of this should be met from within the budgets for the Services affected (paragraph 4.3.5);

3.         That it be noted that £1.5million is available for ongoing service improvement growth from 2009-10, and that there is scope to identify further resources by zero-basing Area Based Grant;

4.         That the Cabinet’s five priorities for this budget round will be;

·                    Reducing over-crowding

·                    Raising GCSE results to be the best in the country

·                    Reducing levels of youth unemployment

·                    Tackling anti-social behaviour and crime

·                    Improving cleanliness and quality of the public realm;

5.         That it be noted that Agenda Item 6.4 “Housing Priority Areas 2008/2010” (CAB 021/089) brings forward costed proposals that accord with the priorities of the Authority to deliver early improvements in frontline Housing services;

6.         That it be noted that Agenda Item 10.2 “Working Neighbourhoods Fund” (CAB 031/089) directly addresses the Cabinet’s priority for tackling youth unemployment and raising educational performance at GCSE level.

7.         That Corporate Directors be requested to prepare budget proposals for 2009/10 -2010/11 in accordance with the following parameters.

(a)       A review of the allocation of Area-Based Grants to identify efficiencies to add to the £1.5m available for service improvement growth

(b)       In principle agreement of the earmarking of £2.4million for £300,000 for each Local Area Partnership (LAP) that can be allocated for General Fund service improvements in the identified priority areas, through a process of participatory budgeting, and to request Directorates to bring forward scalable proposals that can be implemented at different levels in each Local Area Partnership (LAP)

(c)        Bringing forward proposals for capital projects that will deliver improvements in youth provision, community safety and public realm;

8.         That £5.6million of General Fund balances be earmarked for budget risks as set out in the body of the report (CAB 033/089);

9.         That £1.0m of General Fund balances be earmarked towards one-off investments in in-year service improvement (CAB 033/089);

10.       That the previous Cabinet decision that in the first year of the new parking permit charging structure, 2008/09, based on emissions/engine size, net additional receipts accruing to the Authority as a result of the introduction of this structure, be allocated to road safety and environmental improvement schemes.  (Minutes of Cabinet 6^th February 2008, Item 6.1 “Review of Parking Services Fees & Charges” refers), be noted; and it be agreed that a sum equivalent to the additional income within the Parking Control Account, being the estimated additional proceeds in 2008/09 resulting from the introduction of Emissions-Based Car Parking Charges, be earmarked to a fund for public realm and road safety improvements;

11.       That Corporate Directors be requested to bring forward  ...  view the full decision text for item 10.3

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Peck, Lead Member: Resources and Performance, had Tabled a Motion in relation to the recommendations set out in the report, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.

Councillor Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance, in introducing the report and proposing the tabled motion: -

·                    Commented that the Authority was currently in a strong financial position because of prudent budgetary decisions made over the past few years. However it now faced a more challenging period and consequently there was a need for the organisation to achieve more significant savings in order to balance the budget over the next 3 years and further into the future. The next item of business on the agenda addressed the longer term and the report currently before members of the Cabinet the shorter term.

·                    Highlighted five areas comprising the Administration’s priorities for achievement of transformational change, to be delivered through the General Fund Budget, Housing Revenue Account and Working Neighbourhoods Fund, and set out for agreement at paragraph 2.4 of the motion [Resolution 4. below].

·                    Commented that the premise for setting a three year Budget was to drive up performance. Balanced budgets in Years 2 and 3 of the period allowed attention to focus on significantly improving service delivery in key areas through the freeing up of efficiencies.

·                    Highlighted that the motion asked members of the Cabinet to note that there was £1.5 million available for ongoing service improvement growth (SIG) from 2009/10, as a consequence of efficiencies agreed in 2008/09, and also that there was scope to identify further resources for SIG by zero-basing Area Based Grant.

·                    Drew the attention of members of the Cabinet to the request, set out in the motion for agreement at paragraph 2.7 (c), that Corporate Directors bring forward proposals for capital projects that were congruent with the Administration’s five priorities for transformational change.

·                    Highlighted that the motion proposed for agreement that in to achieve in-year transformational change:

o                    £1million of General Fund Balances be earmarked towards one-off investments in in-year service improvement.

o                    That a sum equivalent to the estimated additional proceeds in 2008/09 resulting from the introduction of Emissions-Based Parking Charges, be earmarked to a fund for public realm and road safety improvements.

·                    Highlighted a typographical error in paragraph 2.10 line 7of the motion which should read agrees rather than agreed.

Mr Finch, Service Head Corporate Finance - Resource, at the request of the Chair, addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 29^th July 2008, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented on behalf of the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.

Councillor Hawkins, Lead Member Children’s Services, commented that Area Based Grant contained funding for many sensitive initiatives which also contributed to the priorities of the Administration and and whilst concurring that these should be the subject of a search for efficiency considered  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.3

Resolved:

1.                 That the contents of the report (CAB 032/089) be noted; and

2.                 That Corporate Directors be requested to identify proposals for efficiencies to address the projected funding gap identified from 2011/12 onwards.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR)

Service Head of Corporate Finance Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch)

ALL CORPORATE DIRECTORS [Resolution 2]

Councillor Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance, commented that balancing the Authority’s Budget over the next 10 years was likely to be a more difficult task than the setting a three year budget had been.  However it was incumbent upon the administration to address this longer term objective with equal commitment.

The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report, and it was: -

Resolved:

1.                 That the contents of the report (CAB 032/089) be noted; and

2.                 That Corporate Directors be requested to identify proposals for efficiencies to address the projected funding gap identified from 2011/12 onwards.

Resolved:

1.         That the Action Plan attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 034/089), in response to the recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Working Group on Use of Consultants, be approved; and

2.                 That the contents of the report of the Overview and Scrutiny Working Group on Use of Consultants attached at Appendix 2 to the report (CAB 034/089), together with the findings and associated conclusions/ recommendations be noted.

Action by

ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (M. KEATING)

Scrutiny Policy Officer,Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (S. Matin)

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the recommendation contained in paragraph 2.1 requested Cabinet approval of the action plan whilst that contained in paragraph 2.2 requested that Cabinet consider the report of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee Working Group.  Accordingly the Chair Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet and it was: -

Resolved:

1.         That the Action Plan attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 034/089), in response to the recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Working Group on Use of Consultants, be approved; and

2.                 That the contents of the report of the Overview and Scrutiny Working Group on Use of Consultants attached at Appendix 2 to the report (CAB 034/089), together with the findings and associated conclusions/ recommendations be noted.

Resolved:

1.                  That subject to (a) below the Diversity and Equality Action Plan 2008/09, attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 035/089), be approved; and

(a)    Inclusion of the new local performance indicator “The percentage of the top paid 5% of staff who are of Bangladeshi origin”

2.         That a review of the Authority’s performance against targets set out in the 2008/09 Diversity and Equality Action Plan be undertaken 3 months after implementation and the outcome of the review reported to Cabinet for consideration.

Action by

ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (M. KEATING)

Diversity and Equality Coordinator, Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (F. Jones)

Mr Keating, Acting Chief Executive, at the request of the Chair in introducing the report, briefly summarised the salient points contained therein:

·                    Commenting that the report encompassed a wide range of activities undertaken by the Authority, relating to all the equality strands and the themes of the Community Plan driving the delivery of “One Tower Hamlets”, and concluding that the Action Plan reflected the aspiration of the Administration to maintain the achievement of Level 5 of the Equality Standard.

·                    Drawing the attention of members of the Cabinet to an error in Appendix 1, page 77, to the report: advising that due to a change in the functions undertaken directly by the Authority, as a consequence of the establishment of Tower Hamlets Homes (Arms Length Management Organisation [ALMO]), the total number of Equality Impact Assessments (EQIA) to be delivered in 2008/09 was now 128 and not 141 as detailed.

Mr Keating, Acting Chief Executive, at the request of the Chair, responded to requests for clarification/ assurance, in relation to the following:-

·                    Consideration that additional detail was required particularly in relation to population demographics within the Borough.

·                    Consideration that there was disparity between celebration of the Authority’s achievement of Level 5 of the Equality Standard, on the one hand and resident perceptions regarding the Authority’s practical achievement of the required level of equality in undertaking its activities.

Councillor O. Ahmed, Lead Member Regeneration, Localisation and Community Partnerships, commented that the performance indicators detailed in the Diversity and Equality Action Plan did not include the local performance indicator: “Percentage of the top paid 5% of staff who are of Bangladeshi origin”, and he considered it appropriate that it should do so. Accordingly Councillor O. Ahmed proposed the following amendment to the recommendation contained in paragraph 2.1 of the report, for the consideration of members of the Cabinet:-

“That the Diversity and Equality Action Plan attached at Appendix 1 to the report be approved subject to the Inclusion of the new local performance indicator: “The percentage of the top paid 5% of staff who are of Bangladeshi origin.”

The Chair commented that diversity and equality was a top priority for the Administration, a guiding principle that underpinned all the Authority’s activities and the Authority’s achievements in this regard had been widely recognise. However he considered it appropriate that the Authority’s progress in relation to the Diversity and Equality Action Plan should be closely monitored.  Accordingly the Chair Moved the recommendations, contained in the report (taking account of the proposed amendments from Councillor O. Ahmed), together with an additional recommendation for the consideration of members of the Cabinet as follows:

“That a review of the Authority’s performance against targets set out in the 2008/09 Diversity and Equality Action Plan be undertaken 3 months after implementation and the outcome of the review reported to Cabinet for consideration.”

and it was: -

Resolved:

1.                  That subject to (a) below the Diversity and Equality Action Plan 2008/09, attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 035/089), be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.6

Report Withdrawn.

Action by

CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR)

Service Head Customer Access, Resources (C. Symonds)

The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the report had been withdrawn upon the advice of Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, because it was insufficiently informative with regard to the tender process and would instead be submitted to a future meeting of the Cabinet for consideration.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

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)

Resolved:

That in accordance with 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 contained information defined as exempt or confidential in Part 1 of

Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972.

The Chair Moved and it was: -

Resolved:

That in accordance with 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 contained information defined as exempt or confidential in Part 1 of

Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

(Under provisions of Article 6 Para 6.02 V of the Constitution).

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Exempt/ Confidential appendix to the unrestricted report “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 037/089) [Agenda item 6.3] noted.

Councillor L Rahman declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 020/089) and the exempt/ confidential appendix thereto Agenda item 16.1 (CAB 020/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Spitalfields and Banglatown area and Councillor Rahman was a Ward member for Spitalfields and Banglatown.

Exempt/ Confidential appendix to the unrestricted report “Compulsory Purchase Action for 4 Long-Term Vacant Properties” (CAB 037/089) [Agenda item 6.3] noted.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.

Nil items.

Nil items.

The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.