During the meeting the Mayor agreed to change the order of business to allow items with public speakers to be taken first. To aid clarity the minutes are presented in the order the items appeared on the agenda.

At the meeting, after Agenda Item 4 (Overview and Scrutiny Committee) the Mayor took Agenda Item 5.9 (Lease for the Osmani Centre) next, followed by Agenda Item 5.4 (Substance Misuse Strategy Report). All other items were then taken in order starting with Agenda Item 5.1 (Parking CPZ Policy Review Project).

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:

·         Councillor Asma Begum (Cabinet Member for Culture)

·         Councillor Joshua Peck (Cabinet Member for Work and Economic Development)

·         Melanie Clay (Corporate Director, Law, Probity and Governance)

None were declared.

The unrestricted minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday 14 June 2016 are presented for approval.

RESOLVED

1.    That the unrestricted minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday 14 June 2016 be agreed and signed by the Chair as a correct record of proceedings.

Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) to report on any issues  raised by the OSC in relation to unrestricted business to be considered.

Councillor John Pierce, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, provided an update on their meeting the previous week. He reported on a number of items including that:

·         The Committee had considered their workplan for the year ahead and that there were also workplans for the Health and Housing Sub-Committees.

·         Councillor Shiria Khatun, as Cabinet Member for Community Safety, had attended a useful discussion on the substance misuse strategy. It was noted that Tower Hamlets was considered a good example for other authorities to follow.

·         The Committee had mixed views about the proposed Youth Service model and that they were exploring options for a challenge session on the issue.

·         Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, had attended for a discussion on the Provisional Financial Outturn for 2015/16.

·         The Mayor had attended for a review of the end of year Strategic Monitoring Report and in particular they discussed developments in charging for adult social care services and how to learn from other boroughs who had introduced charging.

The Mayor thanked Councillor John Pierce for his update and for the work of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee over the last year.

Nil items.

The Pre-Decision Scrutiny questions were noted. The recommendations were amended and then agreed.

DECISION

1.    To agree to the reduction of the number of free bays available for domestic bay suspensions from three to two (as per section 3.5 of the report).

2.    To agree to the amendment of the Penalty Charge Notice (‘PCN’) cancellation criteria for vehicles in contravention that are displaying valid Blue Badges such that:

2.1. the first PCN to such vehicles is no longer cancelled automatically but that representations are assessed on a case-by-case basis; and

2.2. a warning notice is issued instead of a PCN where the vehicle is seen in contravention within seven days of the expiry of the Blue Badge.

(as per section 3.6 of the report)

3.    To agree to the amendment of the terms and conditions for all permit types whereby, following a three month notice period given in writing, the Council can revoke any current permit without a refund and / or withhold issuing further permits issued to Persistent Evader Vehicles (as per section 3.7 of the report).

4.    To agree to the amendment of the removals priority list such that vehicles that have remained in a permit or pay and display bay, whilst contravening the restrictions in place, for more than two consecutive days are removed as a primary priority (as per section 3.8 to the report).

5.    At this stage not to agree on enforcement against vehicles parked across a demarcation line between two individual parking bays (as per section 3.9 of the report) to allow for further discussion

6.    To agree to reintroduce pay & display charges for vehicles parking at weekends in market areas (as per section 3.10 to the report).

7.    To agree to introduce an all-zone multi-purpose permit type for the use of car club companies whose business model permits vehicles to be picked up and dropped off at any location in Tower Hamlets or other participating authorities (as per section 3.11 to the report).

8.    To agree to introduce a maximum limit of three permits per household and to introduce surcharges for second and third permits, with concessions for Blue Badge holders and a grace period for households with more than 3 cars of one permit renewal cycle (as per section 3.12 to the report).

9.    To request further consideration of the proposal to introduce an all-day visitor's voucher at the full pay and display rate (as per section 3.12.9 of the report).

10. To not at this stage agree the introduction of a petition scheme framework and assessment criteria for the implementation of parking restrictions as well as the formalisation of current arrangements. (as per section 3.14 of the report).

11. To agree that a maximum period of time should be implemented for any advisory relaxation of enforcement arrangements. It is suggested that this be a maximum of two days over a weekend (including Bank Holiday weekends) or one working week day.

12.  ...  view the full decision text for item 5.1

Councillor Ayas Miah, Cabinet Member for Environment, introduced the report reviewing the Council’s Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) policy. He reported that the review had been ongoing for two years and included an independent survey of the Borough. There were now a number of recommendations proposed. He also highlighted that on Recommendations 9 and 13 the Mayor was being asked to choose from the options provided.

The Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions were noted and in particular it was agreed that as a general point officers should be looking to consult with Ward Councillors more regularly irrespective of whether it was a statutory requirement.

The Mayor then took Cabinet through the recommendations individually. He did not agree Recommendation 5 on parking across demarcation lines, Recommendation 9 on All Day Visitor Voucher charging or Recommendation 10 on the petition framework as he considered they all required further discussion.

For Recommendation 13 on consultation areas, the Mayor considered Option 3 was the most appropriate of those listed but asked officers to consider whether there were other high use areas that should also be consulted.

The Mayor then agreed the recommendations as amended.

RESOLVED

1.    To agree to the reduction of the number of free bays available for domestic bay suspensions from three to two (as per section 3.5 of the report).

2.    To agree to the amendment of the Penalty Charge Notice (‘PCN’) cancellation criteria for vehicles in contravention that are displaying valid Blue Badges such that:

2.1. the first PCN to such vehicles is no longer cancelled automatically but that representations are assessed on a case-by-case basis; and

2.2. a warning notice is issued instead of a PCN where the vehicle is seen in contravention within seven days of the expiry of the Blue Badge.

(as per section 3.6 of the report)

3.    To agree to the amendment of the terms and conditions for all permit types whereby, following a three month notice period given in writing, the Council can revoke any current permit without a refund and / or withhold issuing further permits issued to Persistent Evader Vehicles (as per section 3.7 of the report).

4.    To agree to the amendment of the removals priority list such that vehicles that have remained in a permit or pay and display bay, whilst contravening the restrictions in place, for more than two consecutive days are removed as a primary priority (as per section 3.8 to the report).

5.    At this stage not to agree on enforcement against vehicles parked across a demarcation line between two individual parking bays (as per section 3.9 of the report) to allow for further discussion

6.    To agree to reintroduce pay & display charges for vehicles parking at weekends in market areas (as per section 3.10 to the report).

7.    To agree to introduce an all-zone multi-purpose permit type for the use of car club companies whose business model permits vehicles to be picked up and dropped off at any location in Tower Hamlets or  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.1

The recommendation was amended and then agreed.

DECISION

1.    To agree in principle to proceed to move to a new model outlined in Option 4 and authorise, following further consultation with the Mayor and Lead Cabinet Member, the initiation of a tender process for a visiting floating support service and subsequent awarding of contract, subject to best value consideration being met by bids received, in respect of the sheltered housing schemes listed in this report (noting that a short extension to some contracts may be required in order to complete the tendering process).

Action by:

DIRECTOR, ADULTS’ SERVICES (D. RADLEY)

(Acting Service Head, Commissioning and Health (K. Sugars)

Councillor Amy Whitelock Gibbs, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, introduced the report. She explained how the report proposed a new model of sheltered housing provision moving to a floating support model which would allow more flexibility and was more financially sustainable. She noted the significant growth in the over 60s population and the likely increase in demand for sheltered housing. She also highlighted that continuity of care for service users was being built into the contracts.

The Mayor welcomed the report but expressed concern about the extent to which existing service users understood the levels of service they would be receiving. He considered that further discussion with service users was required. The Mayor agreed the report’s recommendation in principle but asked that further consultation take place including with himself and the Lead Member before the recommendations be actioned.

RESOLVED

1.    To agree in principle to proceed to move to a new model outlined in Option 4 and authorise, following further consultation with the Mayor and Lead Cabinet Member, the initiation of a tender process for a visiting floating support service and subsequent awarding of contract, subject to best value consideration being met by bids received, in respect of the sheltered housing schemes listed in this report (noting that a short extension to some contracts may be required in order to complete the tendering process).

DECISION

1.    To approve the remodelling of the hostel provision.

2.    To agree the reconfiguring of the hostel provision to enable implementation of the new model.

3.    Subject to legal and procurement approval to:

a.    Exempt Providence Row Housing Association (PRHA) for up to 3 years and the Salvation Army for up to 5 years ( 3 + 1 + 1 year contract) from any tendering exercise relating to the improved and / or reconfigured provision at Edward Gibbons House, Hopetown Hostel and Riverside House in recognition of the significant capital investment to improve the quality and design of the existing buildings.

b.    Vary the existing contracts at Hopetown and Booth House should it be necessary to provide continuity of support whilst the reconfiguration programme is being implemented.

c.    Commence the procurement programme to achieve the recommendations as set out above.

Action by:

DIRECTOR, ADULTS’ SERVICES (D. RADLEY)

(Interim Service Head, Commissioning and Health (K. Sugars)

Councillor Amy Whitelock Gibbs, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, introduced the report. She explained that this followed on from a report presented to Cabinet in May which agreed the high level principles but which asked for a public consultation to take place. This item was reporting back on that consultation. A key highlight on the consultation findings was that they supported the proposed new commissioning model.

The Mayor thanked the Lead Member for her work on this issue and he agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To approve the remodelling of the hostel provision.

2.    To agree the reconfiguring of the hostel provision to enable implementation of the new model.

3.    Subject to legal and procurement approval to:

a.    Exempt Providence Row Housing Association (PRHA) for up to 3 years and the Salvation Army for up to 5 years ( 3 + 1 + 1 year contract) from any tendering exercise relating to the improved and / or reconfigured provision at Edward Gibbons House, Hopetown Hostel and Riverside House in recognition of the significant capital investment to improve the quality and design of the existing buildings.

b.    Vary the existing contracts at Hopetown and Booth House should it be necessary to provide continuity of support whilst the reconfiguration programme is being implemented.

c.    Commence the procurement programme to achieve the recommendations as set out above.

DECISION

1.    To note that the Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 is part of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy in Tower Hamlets (the Community Safety Plan);

2.    To note that as the Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 is part of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy then pursuant to the Council’s Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules, the Mayor as the Executive has responsibility for preparing the draft strategy for submission to the full Council to adopt;

3.    To note that the Action Plan is due to go to the DAAT Board on 11^th July 2016 to be further developed;

4.    To note that the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 and Action Plan will be referred to the strategic partners for approval that the Strategy be adopted by their respective organisations;

5.    Having given careful analysis to the consultation response, to approve the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 as drafted and recommend it to Full Council for adoption; and

6.    To note that if any further changes are made to the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 or if, for any reason, any of the strategic partners do not approve the Strategy then a further report must be submitted to Cabinet for the Mayor to consider and make a fresh recommendation to Full Council.

Action by:

CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE (W. TUCKLEY)

(Service Head, Safer Communities (A. Bamber)

(DAAT Co-ordinator (R. Sadegh)

Councillor Shiria Khatun, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, introduced the report on the Substance Misuse Strategy. She highlighted that the current strategy expired in March 2016 and so a new Strategy was required. She explained that following Cabinet, the Strategy would be presented to Council for approval.

The Strategy had undergone consultation with residents, service users and partners and had been signed off by the Community Safety Partnership.

The overall structure of the existing strategy had been retained but there had been amendments. For example, the drug and alcohol chapters had been integrated and there had been a review of the consistency and quality of information provided.

During discussion officers noted that as well as the three year strategy there was a yearly action plan that would be monitored by the DAAT Board.

The Mayor noted the concerns of service users who were seeing their services change and officers confirmed they were working to minimise the impact of those changes. The Mayor agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To note that the Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 is part of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy in Tower Hamlets (the Community Safety Plan);

2.    To note that as the Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 is part of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy then pursuant to the Council’s Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules, the Mayor as the Executive has responsibility for preparing the draft strategy for submission to the full Council to adopt;

3.    To note that the Action Plan is due to go to the DAAT Board on 11^th July 2016 to be further developed;

4.    To note that the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 and Action Plan will be referred to the strategic partners for approval that the Strategy be adopted by their respective organisations;

5.    Having given careful analysis to the consultation response, to approve the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 as drafted and recommend it to Full Council for adoption; and

6.    To note that if any further changes are made to the draft Substance Misuse Strategy 2016-2019 or if, for any reason, any of the strategic partners do not approve the Strategy then a further report must be submitted to Cabinet for the Mayor to consider and make a fresh recommendation to Full Council.

The recommendations were amended and then agreed.

DECISION

1.    To consider the consultation feedback and service responses set out in ANNEX B to the report.

2.    With the exception of the Breast Feeding Support services to agree to implement the savings as set out in the templates in ANNEX A to the report.

Action by:

DIRECTOR, ADULTS’ SERVICES (D. RADLEY)

(Director of Public Health (S. Banerjee)

Councillor Amy Whitelock Gibbs, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, introduced the report on Public Health Savings Proposals. She thanked officers for their hard work on this issue.

She explained that, following discussion at the May Cabinet meeting, detailed savings proposals to deal with the £5 Million funding cut from the government had now been consulted upon. The overall response to the consultation had been concern about the impact of the cuts but there was recognition of the robust methodology and consultation processes used to take views on board.

One specific concern highlighted was around the impact of potential cuts to breastfeeding support services. Following further discussion it was proposed to remove that cut from the list. The financial impact of that change was manageable but would require additional savings in phase 2.

The Mayor thanked the Lead Member and officers. He expressed his dissatisfaction with having to make cuts to services due to government funding reductions. He agreed the recommendations with the proposed amendment around breastfeeding services.

RESOLVED

1.    To consider the consultation feedback and service responses set out in ANNEX B to the report.

2.    With the exception of the Breast Feeding Support services to agree to implement the savings as set out in the templates in ANNEX A to the report.

DECISION

1.    To note the update on scheme delivery and the Council’s CPO in paragraphs 3.2.1 to 3.2.12 of the report.

2.    To note the update on actual and projected expenditure, scheme funding and potential overage in paragraphs 3.3.1 – 3.3.14 of the report.

3.    To approve an increase in the capital budget for the scheme to £20.3 million, as set out in paragraphs 3.3.2 to 3.3.8 of the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI)

(Housing Regeneration Manager (N. McGowan)

(Service Head, Strategy, Regeneration and Sustainability (J. Odunoye)

Councillor Rachel Blake, Cabinet Member for Strategic Development, introduced the report. The Mayor welcomed the report as a demonstration of good regeneration work the Council was engaged in. He agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the update on scheme delivery and the Council’s CPO in paragraphs 3.2.1 to 3.2.12 of the report.

2.    To note the update on actual and projected expenditure, scheme funding and potential overage in paragraphs 3.3.1 – 3.3.14 of the report.

3.    To approve an increase in the capital budget for the scheme to £20.3 million, as set out in paragraphs 3.3.2 to 3.3.8 of the report.

DECISION

1.    To approve Addendums to the following six Conservation Areas Management Plans:

a.    Chapel House

b.    Fairfield Road

c.    Jesus Hospital Estate

d.    Tredegar Square

e.    Victoria Park

f.     York Square

2.    To note that further research is being undertaken to more fully explore the potential for extensions for family homes in Driffield Road and Medway conservation areas, with particular focus on roof extensions.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI)

(Team Leader – Place Shaping Team (S. Sudhakar)

The Mayor introduced the report on proposed addendums to conservation area Character Appraisals.

Councillor Peter Golds, Leader of the Conservative Group, addressed the meeting. He expressed concern about the proposed impact of the changes on the Chapel House Conservation Area.

The Mayor noted the Pre-Scrutiny question and written response and in particular the need for more pro-active engagement of Ward Councillors.

The Mayor agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To approve Addendums to the following six Conservation Areas Management Plans:

a.    Chapel House

b.    Fairfield Road

c.    Jesus Hospital Estate

d.    Tredegar Square

e.    Victoria Park

f.     York Square

2.    To note that further research is being undertaken to more fully explore the potential for extensions for family homes in Driffield Road and Medway conservation areas, with particular focus on roof extensions.

The Mayor noted the exempt appendix.

The recommendations were amended and then agreed.

DECISION

1. To note the contents of this report;

2.    To agree that the land and buildings at 255 – 279 Cambridge Heath Road, E2 0HQ (as shown on the plan in Appendix A to the report) are surplus to requirements;

3.    To agree to the disposal of the site by informal tender but with a planning brief to be provided;

4.    To agree to the disposal of the site on a 199 year lease;

5.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to appoint external agents to support the marketing of the site;

6.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal to accept the best tender return for the site on conclusion of the marketing exercise;

7.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, to agree the precise boundary of the land to be sold in order to implement the recommendations above.

8.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, following consultation with the Corporate Director of Law Probity and Governance, to agree the terms and conditions of any agreements required to implement the recommendations above.

9.    To note that the Direction issued by the Minister on 17^th December 2014 requires the Council, until 31^st March 2017, to “…. Obtain the prior written agreement of the Commissioners before [emphasis added] entering into any commitment to dispose of, or otherwise transfer to third parties, any real property other than exisiting single dwellings for the purposes of residential occupation”.  This report relates to the disposal of land through the sale of a lease and accommodation written consent of the Commissioners will be required before any sale can take place.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI)

(Service Head, Corporate Property and Capital Delivery (A. Sutcliffe)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report on the disposal of 255 – 279 Cambridge Heath Road on a 199 year lease. During discussion the Mayor agreed to an amendment to Recommendation 3 to provide for the inclusion of a planning brief.

During discussion the Mayor explained that the Council was spending a lot of money on buildings that were no longer useful to it and that detailed evaluation had been undertaken on the best way of disposing of this site.

The Mayor also agreed that an appendix to the report was restricted due to the financial information contained therein and he noted the contents of that appendix. Finally, he agreed the recommendations as set out in the report subject to the above amendment on the inclusion of a planning brief.

RESOLVED

1. To note the contents of this report;

2.    To agree that the land and buildings at 255 – 279 Cambridge Heath Road, E2 0HQ (as shown on the plan in Appendix A to the report) are surplus to requirements;

3.    To agree to the disposal of the site by informal tender but with a planning brief to be provided;

4.    To agree to the disposal of the site on a 199 year lease;

5.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to appoint external agents to support the marketing of the site;

6.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal to accept the best tender return for the site on conclusion of the marketing exercise;

7.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, to agree the precise boundary of the land to be sold in order to implement the recommendations above.

8.    To authorise the Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, following consultation with the Corporate Director of Law Probity and Governance, to agree the terms and conditions of any agreements required to implement the recommendations above.

9.    To note that the Direction issued by the Minister on 17^th December 2014 requires the Council, until 31^st March 2017, to “…. Obtain the prior written agreement of the Commissioners before [emphasis added] entering into any commitment to dispose of, or otherwise transfer to third parties, any real property other than exisiting single dwellings for the purposes of residential occupation”.  This report relates to the disposal of land through the sale of a lease and accommodation written consent of the Commissioners will be required before any sale can take place.

The recommendations were amended and then agreed.

The Mayor noted the concerns about the tight timescales to sign the contract that may need discussion with the Commissioners.

DECISION

1.    Following consultation with the Mayor and Lead Member, to authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to conclude a lease of the site known as the Osmani Centre, 58 Underwood Road, London, E1 5AW to the Osmani Trust;

2.    To agree that the lease will be for a 25-year term, commencing 1^st August 2011;

3.    To agree that the lease will incorporate a four-year rent free period from commencement and the rent in the fifth year will be £46,000;

4.    To agree that the rent from 1^st August 2016 should be the open market rental value for community use;

5.    To agree that the lease should incorporate a landlord’s (and tenant’s, if requested) option to break by giving to the tenant (or landlord) not less than 12 months’ notice in writing;

6.    To agree that the lease is to be excluded from the security of tenure provisions of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 at the end of the 25-year term;

7.    In the event of failure to conclude the lease on the above terms by 31^st August 2016, to authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to seek to recover possession of the property on behalf of the Council; and

8.    To note that under the Directions issued to the Council by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government in 2014, the Council will need to secure the prior written agreement of the DCLG-appointed Commissioners before entering into the lease.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI)

(Service Head, Corporate Property and Capital Delivery (A. Sutcliffe)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report. He explained that the proposed agreement would provide a stable basis for the centre for the next few years. The lease also provided scope to think about use of the site by youth services if that was found to be useful.

Shafiur Rahman, Executive Director of the Osmani Trust, provided a submission to Cabinet. He welcomed the opportunity to agree a lease but highlighted concerns about the deadlines being set due to the holiday period and the need to understand recent changes made to the lease by the Council.

The Mayor noted that the deadline to sign the lease had been set by the Commissioners. He agreed that discussions could take place to see if the deadline could be extended if that proved necessary but that it was a decision for the Commissioners to take.

During discussion it was also proposed that the first recommendation be amended to allow final consultation with the Lead Member and Mayor before the process was concluded.

The Mayor agreed the proposed amendment and then agreed the recommendations.

RESOLVED

1.    Following consultation with the Mayor and Lead Member, to authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to conclude a lease of the site known as the Osmani Centre, 58 Underwood Road, London, E1 5AW to the Osmani Trust;

2.    To agree that the lease will be for a 25-year term, commencing 1^st August 2011;

3.    To agree that the lease will incorporate a four-year rent free period from commencement and the rent in the fifth year will be £46,000;

4.    To agree that the rent from 1^st August 2016 should be the open market rental value for community use;

5.    To agree that the lease should incorporate a landlord’s (and tenant’s, if requested) option to break by giving to the tenant (or landlord) not less than 12 months’ notice in writing;

6.    To agree that the lease is to be excluded from the security of tenure provisions of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 at the end of the 25-year term;

7.    In the event of failure to conclude the lease on the above terms by 31^st August 2016, to authorise the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, to seek to recover possession of the property on behalf of the Council; and

8.    To note that under the Directions issued to the Council by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government in 2014, the Council will need to secure the prior written agreement of the DCLG-appointed Commissioners before entering into the lease.

DECISION

1.    To note the updated HRA financial outlook and 30 year business plan base case as set out in section 5, and note the resulting medium-term projections detailed in Appendix 1, including the assumptions regarding new-build and the capital requirements relating to maintaining the existing stock.

2.    To note that, as outlined in section 6 of the report, and detailed in Appendix 2 to the report, although the Housing and Planning Act has been enacted, the financial impact on the HRA of the High Value Void levy and Pay to Stay is not known, although some assumptions have been made for modelling purposes.  A further review of the business plan will be brought back to Cabinet for consideration when full details have been published

3.    To agree the HRA medium-term financial plan net savings target of £1 million per annum over the period of the medium-term plan period, in addition to the £2 million of savings already assumed in 2017/18.

4. To note the financial impact on the HRA of developing new housing and letting at social rent, as outlined in paragraphs 9.18 to 9.22, and agree the appropriate mix of social and ‘Living’ rents as set out at 9.34 to the report.

5. To agree a disposal programme of up to five HRA properties per year as an initial response to the requirement to sell vacant higher value Council stock, as set out in paragraphs 9.30 to 9.33 to the report.

6. To agree to incorporate a capital budget of £89.92m (inclusive of fees, on costs and a level of contingencies) into the capital programme for the new build construction at the Hereford, Locksley, Baroness, Jubilee, Tent Street and Arnold Road sites to deliver 270 new homes as set out in section 9. This replaces the total budgets of £48.157m that were previously agreed for Hereford, Locksley, Baroness and Jubilee and for preliminary works at Tent Street and Arnold Road.

7. To agree that approval to proceed to award contracts be delegated to the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal and the Corporate Director, Law Probity & Governance, subject to the tenders being within the capital estimate amount.  In addition, note that, in relation to the Arnold Road site, additional relocation costs are likely to be incurred, to be determined, to be funded from General Fund resources.

8. To note that, in relation to the Hereford scheme, the scheme is still subject to final sign off following consultation with residents on the final scheme layout and number of units.

9.    To approve the principle of acquiring Section 106 affordable units from developers, and authorise officers to negotiate with both Registered Providers and the developers on a potential acquisition in relation to the two sites outlined in 9.12 to 9.17 to the report.

10.To note that a future report will be submitted to Cabinet regarding the setting up of a housing company or companies to help deliver the Authority’s strategic objectives, as detailed in section 10 of the report.

11. To note that as part of the  ...  view the full decision text for item 5.10

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report. He highlighted that it responded to the report of the Affordability Commission and set out new ways of delivering homes including approval in principle to acquire new homes from developers. The report set out details on the 30 year business plan and notes levels of uncertainty for the future such as proposed government plans on requiring higher income tenants to make contributions.

The Mayor noted that there were lots of issues to consider in ensuring a viable housing revenue account and a number of discussions had taken place. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the updated HRA financial outlook and 30 year business plan base case as set out in section 5, and note the resulting medium-term projections detailed in Appendix 1, including the assumptions regarding new-build and the capital requirements relating to maintaining the existing stock.

2.    To note that, as outlined in section 6 of the report, and detailed in Appendix 2 to the report, although the Housing and Planning Act has been enacted, the financial impact on the HRA of the High Value Void levy and Pay to Stay is not known, although some assumptions have been made for modelling purposes.  A further review of the business plan will be brought back to Cabinet for consideration when full details have been published

3.    To agree the HRA medium-term financial plan net savings target of £1 million per annum over the period of the medium-term plan period, in addition to the £2 million of savings already assumed in 2017/18.

4. To note the financial impact on the HRA of developing new housing and letting at social rent, as outlined in paragraphs 9.18 to 9.22, and agree the appropriate mix of social and ‘Living’ rents as set out at 9.34 to the report.

5. To agree a disposal programme of up to five HRA properties per year as an initial response to the requirement to sell vacant higher value Council stock, as set out in paragraphs 9.30 to 9.33 to the report.

6. To agree to incorporate a capital budget of £89.92m (inclusive of fees, on costs and a level of contingencies) into the capital programme for the new build construction at the Hereford, Locksley, Baroness, Jubilee, Tent Street and Arnold Road sites to deliver 270 new homes as set out in section 9. This replaces the total budgets of £48.157m that were previously agreed for Hereford, Locksley, Baroness and Jubilee and for preliminary works at Tent Street and Arnold Road.

7. To agree that approval to proceed to award contracts be delegated to the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal and the Corporate Director, Law Probity & Governance, subject to the tenders being within the capital estimate amount.  In addition, note that, in relation to the Arnold Road site, additional relocation costs are likely to be incurred, to be determined, to be funded from General Fund resources.

8. To note that, in relation to the Hereford scheme, the scheme is still  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.10

DECISION

1.    To approve the draft Single Equality Framework

The Mayor introduced the Single Equality Framework report he noted that it set out how the Council met the Public Sector Equality Duty. He agreed the recommendation as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To approve the draft Single Equality Framework

DECISION

1.            To agree the new Corporate Procurement Strategy 2016-19

2.            To agree for the development of an overarching Commissioning and Procurement Strategy by the end of the current financial year.

Action by:

(CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Head of Procurement (Z. Ahmed)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report. He welcomed the proposed new procurement strategy and stated that the report set out why this was a good way of approaching procurement for the Council.

The Mayor reported that there had been lengthy discussions with officers and in particular thanked Zamil Ahmed, Head of Procurement, for his efforts. He also explained that the Commissioners had been fully involved in the discussions. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.            To agree the new Corporate Procurement Strategy 2016-19

2.            To agree for the development of an overarching Commissioning and Procurement Strategy by the end of the current financial year.

DECISION

1.    To note the performance of the Strategic Measures at the end of year stage (appendix 1 to the report);

2.    To note the progress in delivering the Strategic Plan at the end of year stage (appendix 2 to the report).

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, LAW, PROBITY AND GOVERNANCE (M. CLAY)

(Interim Service Head, Corporate Strategy and Equalities (K. Kewin)

The Mayor introduced the report on the Council’s Strategic Performance Monitoring. He noted that this had been pre-scrutinised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and that their concerns around a number of issues including staff sickness had been noted. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the performance of the Strategic Measures at the end of year stage (appendix 1 to the report);

2.    To note the progress in delivering the Strategic Plan at the end of year stage (appendix 2 to the report).

DECISION

1.    To note the Council’s revenue and capital financial outturn position as detailed in Sections 3 to 7 and Appendices 1-6 of the report.

2.    To endorse the proposed transfers to and from reserves as reflected in Appendix 5 to the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Chief Accountant (K. Miles)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report. He welcomed the increased level of detail that was now being included in the report. Examining the report he noted that

·         The expected use of £8 Million of reserve had not been required.

·         There had been slippages in the Capital Budget, and the reasons were set out in the report.

·         There was an underspend in the Housing Revenue Account.

The Mayor noted the challenging financial environment the Council was facing over the next few years and he agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the Council’s revenue and capital financial outturn position as detailed in Sections 3 to 7 and Appendices 1-6 of the report.

2.    To endorse the proposed transfers to and from reserves as reflected in Appendix 5 to the report.

DECISION

1.    To agree the proposed transitional arrangements for Grants Decision Making as set out in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.14 of this report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Head of Benefits Services (S. Hill)

Councillor Rachael Saunders, Deputy Mayor with specific responsibility for Grants and the Third Sector, introduced the report proposing Transitional Arrangements for the Council’s Grants decision making processes.

She highlighted the importance of agreeing new processes so that grants decision making could gradually be taken back under the control of the Council. The report set out plans for new decision making meetings chaired by the Mayor with the Commissioners, Cabinet Members and the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee also in attendance.

Councillor Peter Golds, Leader of the Conservative Group, welcomed the steps proposed to bring decision making back to the Council but highlighted the importance of ensuring that, after the Commissioners had left, grants decision making remained in public so that it could be properly monitored and challenged. It was also vital to ensure there was no expectation of favours for awarded grants.

During discussion the Mayor and Lead Member agreed on the importance of transparency to reassure the public on how grants were being processed and awarded and that the auditing process was also extremely important.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Peter Golds for his efforts in holding the executive, and the previous administration, to account.

The Mayor agreed the recommendation as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To agree the proposed transitional arrangements for Grants Decision Making as set out in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.14 of this report.

DECISION

1.    To agree that all contracts listed in Appendix 1 to the report can proceed to contract award after tender.

2.    To authorise the Service Head, Legal Services, to execute all necessary contract documents in respect of the awards of contracts referred to in recommendation 1 above.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Head of Procurement (Z. Ahmed)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Resources, introduced the report. He asked that should Cabinet require it they inform him of any reports they would like written on the listed contracts before they proceeded to tender.

The Mayor confirmed with Members that they were content for all listed contracts to proceed to tender.

RESOLVED

1.    To agree that all contracts listed in Appendix 1 to the report can proceed to contract award after tender.

2.    To authorise the Service Head, Legal Services, to execute all necessary contract documents in respect of the awards of contracts referred to in recommendation 1 above.

DECISION

1.    To note the Corporate Directors’ decisions set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, RESOURCES (Z. COOKE)

(Accountant – Financial Planning (A. Kadir)

The Mayor noted the listed decision and agreed the recommendation as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the Corporate Directors’ decisions set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

DECISION

1.    To note the Individual Mayoral Decisions set out in Appendix 1.

Action by:

COMMITTEE SERVICES MANAGER (M. MANNION)

The Mayor noted the individual decisions listed and agreed the recommendation as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the Individual Mayoral Decisions set out in Appendix 1.

Nil items.

No motion to exclude the press and public was passed.

Nil items.

Nil items.

Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) to report on any issues  raised by the OSC in relation to exempt/confidential business to be considered.

Nil items.

Nil items.

Nil items.

Note – the Mayor agreed the report was exempt but considered the item in public session.

The recommendations set out in the report were agreed.

Note – the Mayor agreed the report was exempt due to the financial information contained therein but considered the item in public session.

The recommendations set out in the report were agreed.

Nil items.

Nil items.