Agenda and minutes

Under the terms of Executive Procedure Rule 2.3 Councillor J Procter was invited to attend the meeting on behalf of Councillor A Carter.

1  To highlight reports or appendices which officers have identified as containing exempt information, and where officers consider that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information, for the reasons outlined in the report.

2  To consider whether or not to accept the officers recommendation in respect of the above information.

3  If so, to formally pass the following resolution:-

  RESOLVED –  That the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of those parts of the agenda designated as exempt information on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the press and public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information.

RESOLVED – That the public be excluded from the meeting during the consideration of the following parts of the agenda designated as exempt on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information so designated as follows:-

(a)  Appendix 1 to the report referred to in Minute No. 168 under the terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that it relates to the financial or business affairs of a particular person, and of the Council. This information is not publicly available from the statutory registers of information kept in respect of certain companies and charities.  It is considered that since this information was obtained through one to one negotiations for the disposal of the property/land then it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this point in time.  Also it is considered that the release of such information would, or would be likely to prejudice the Council’s commercial interests in relation to other similar transactions in that prospective purchasers of other similar properties would have access to information about the nature and level of consideration which may prove acceptable to the Council. It is considered that whilst there may be a public interest in disclosure, much of this information will be publicly available from the Land Registry following completion of this transaction and consequently the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing this information at this point in time. 

(b)  Appendix 1 to the report referred to in Minute No. 173 under the terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). It is considered that the public interest in maintaining the content of Appendix 1 as exempt outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information at this point in time.

To identify items which have been admitted to the agenda by the Chair for consideration

(The special circumstances shall be specified in the minutes)

The Chair admitted to the agenda, the following late items of business:

(a)  A report entitled, ‘East Leeds Regeneration Board’ (Minute No. 169 referred). It was deemed appropriate that this matter be considered by the Board as a matter of urgency in order to ensure that the Board received at the earliest opportunity the latest information and clarification with regard to the governance arrangements for the East Leeds Regeneration Board.

(b)  A report entitled, ‘Letter from the Minister for Children and Families, Tim Loughton, regarding the Children’s Services Improvement Notice’, (Minute No. 182 referred). Following receipt of the correspondence from the Minister for Children and Families on the 21^st December 2011, it was deemed appropriate that Executive Board members be provided at the earliest opportunity with the latest information regarding the lifting of the Improvement Notice upon Children’s Services in Leeds.

To declare any personal/prejudicial interests for the purpose of Section 81(3) of the Local Government Act 2000 and paragraphs 8 to 12 of the Members Code of Conduct

Councillor Dobson declared a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Response to the Consultation on the Foundation Trust Application by Leeds NHS Trusts’ due to being a member of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (Minute No. 173 referred).

Councillors Yeadon declared a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Community First’, due to her position on the Kirkstall Community First Panel and also a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Response to the Consultation on the Foundation Trust Application by Leeds NHS Trusts’, due to being a member of the Leeds Initiative: Health and Wellbeing Board (Minute Nos. 167 and 173 referred respectively).

Councillor Wakefield declared a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Response to the Consultation on the Foundation Trust Application by Leeds NHS Trusts’ due to being a member of the Leeds Initiative: Health and Wellbeing Board (Minute No. 173 referred).

Councillor Ogilvie declared a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Community First’, due to his position on his local Community First Panel (Minute No. 167 referred).

On behalf of Councillor Blake, who was scheduled to join the meeting at a later point, Councillor Wakefield declared that Councillor Blake had a personal interest in respect of the agenda item entitled, ‘Community First’, due to her position on her local Community First Panel and also a personal interest in the agenda item entitled, ‘Response to the Consultation on the Foundation Trust Application by Leeds NHS Trusts’, due to being a member of the Leeds Initiative: Health and Wellbeing Board (Minute Nos. 167 and 173 referred respectively).

A further declaration of interest was made at a later point in the meeting (Minute No.178 referred).

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 14^th December 2011.

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the meeting held on 14^th December 2011 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development responding to the points raised by the Leeds Cycle Action Group during the organisation’s deputation to Council at the meeting held on 16^th November 2011.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the issues raised by the Leeds Cycle Action Group during the organisation’s deputation to the Council meeting held on 16th November 2011. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Correspondence on behalf of the National Federation of the Blind addressed to the Leader of Council had been tabled at the meeting for Board Members’ consideration. The correspondence detailed the Federation’s specific concerns regarding the proposed cycle way for Cookridge Street and Portland Crescent.

In responding the correspondence circulated, the Executive Member for Development and the Economy undertook to schedule a meeting between representatives of the Council and the Federation, in order to discuss their specific concerns.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted.

(b)  That the concerns of the Leeds Cycling Action Group be acknowledged together with the programmes and initiatives which are being pursued by the Council which aim to satisfy such concerns, whilst also maintaining a balance of provision for all road users. 

(c)  That the Chief Officer of Highways and Transportation be invited to address the Cycling Consultation Forum.

(d)  That a meeting be scheduled between representatives of both the Council and the National Federation of the Blind, in order to discuss the specific concerns which had been highlighted by the Federation.

To consider a report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Customer Access and Performance) seeking to raise awareness of the Community First and Community Organiser programmes.  The report also seeks Executive Board approval to support the Council’s active engagement and cooperation in establishing the Community First Programme in Leeds and endorsement that other programmes are, where appropriate, aligned with Community First.

The Assistant Chief Executive (Customer Access and Performance) submitted a report which aimed to raise awareness of the Community First and Community Organiser programmes.  In addition, the report sought the Board’s support for the Council’s active engagement and co-operation in establishing the Community First Programme in Leeds, together with the undertaking that other programmes, where appropriate, would be aligned with the Community First initiative. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Members welcomed the additional funding which would be received within targeted Wards, however, concerns were raised regarding the process by which the funding would be allocated, the extent to which the local authority had been involved in that process and how the targeted Wards had been identified.

Concerns were raised regarding the remit and the accountability arrangements for the Community Organisers. In addition, Members further considered the criteria which had been used to identify the targeted Wards and enquired how the funding would be used to specifically address those issues on which the selection criteria had been based, such as benefit claimant levels. In response, it was requested that a report was submitted to a future meeting of the Board in order to clarify such matters.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Council’s active engagement and co-operation in establishing the Community First Programme in Leeds be supported.

(b)  That the alignment of the programme with other relevant initiatives be endorsed.

(c)  That the Board’s awareness of the Community Organisers’ Programme and the potential relationships with other related programmes, be noted.

(d)  That a further report be submitted to a future meeting of the Board in order to clarify those matters relating to the initiative which had been raised during the discussion.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods seeking approval to sell 60, Sholebroke Avenue, Chapeltown, to Unity HA at a less than best consideration in order to bring the property back into use as a 7 bedroomed family house for a family to be housed from the housing register.

Appendix 1 to this report is designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3).

Further to Minute No. 21, 22^nd June 2010, the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods submitted a report which sought approval to sell 60, Sholebroke Avenue, Chapeltown, to Unity HA at a less than best consideration in order to bring the property back into use as a 7 bedroomed family home for a family to be housed from the housing register. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Following consideration of Appendix 1 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3), which was considered in private at the conclusion of the meeting it was

RESOLVED – That 60, Sholebrook Avenue be sold at a less than best consideration and on the terms detailed within the exempt appendix to the submitted report to Unity HA, in order that the property can be refurbished to Code Level 3 for Sustainable Homes, and brought back into use as a 7 bedroomed family house.

The Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods submitted a report outlining proposals regarding the establishment of area regeneration sub-boards to the overarching Housing and Regeneration Strategic Partnership Board, whilst also seeking Executive Board’s endorsement of the governance arrangements set out for the East Leeds Regeneration Board. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Copies of the report and appendices had been circulated to all relevant parties following the publication of the agenda papers.

Following Members’ enquiries, the Board received clarification with regard to the status of the Shadow Board. It was also emphasised that the Sub Board, when it became operational, would be an advisory body only. In addition, assurances were received regarding the composition of, and the appointment process to the East Leeds Regeneration Board. Enquiries were also raised regarding the geographical area covered by the Board and the added value that the proposals would bring.

Responding to a specific request that opposition representation on the Board was allowed to be taken from the overall membership of each opposition group, rather than just from those opposition Members representing the affected Wards, it was stated that this request would be given serious consideration.

In conclusion, the Chair acknowledged that further work was required to be undertaken with regard to regeneration in other parts of the city. Specifically in relation to the work currently being undertaken in East Leeds, further consideration could be given to the current model by Executive Board, should concerns remain.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposal to establish area regeneration sub-boards, be noted.

(b)  That the arrangements for the East Leeds Regeneration Board, as detailed within the submitted report, be endorsed.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to transfer the operations from the City Council and establish the City of Leeds Gymnastics Club as an independent Community Interest Company to undertake to develop gymnasts to reach their full potential, with a reducing contribution from the City Council.

The Director of City Development submitted a report seeking approval to transfer the operation of the Leeds Gymnastics Training Scheme from Leeds City Council to the City of Leeds Gymnastics Club Community Interest Company, which would help develop gymnasts to reach their full potential, with a reducing contribution from the Council.In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

The Executive Member for Leisure paid tribute to all of those who had been involved in getting the scheme to its current position, particularly the City of Leeds Gymnastics Club.

Assurances were received in response to enquiries regarding the consultation process which had been undertaken.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the transfer of the Leeds Gymnastics Training Scheme from Leeds City Council to the City of Leeds Gymnastics Club Community Interest Company from 1 April 2012 be approved.

(b)  That approval be given to Leeds City Council providing financial support to City of Leeds Gymnastics Club Community Interest Company up to a maximum of £250,000 over the next 4 year period.

(c)  That approval be given to Leeds City Council acting as guarantor on the leasehold (Unit 1 Limewood Business Park) for a period of 4 years commencing on  1st February 2012 and terminating  31st January 2016.

To consider the joint report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Customer Access and Performance) and the Director of Adult Social Services providing Executive Board with a response to the issues raised by the Access Committee for Leeds during the group’s deputation to Council on 16^th November 2011.

The Assistant Chief Executive (Customer Access and Performance) together with the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a joint report responding to the issues raised by the Access Committee for Leeds during the organisation’s deputation to the Council meeting held on 16th November 2011. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

On behalf of the Board, the Chair thanked of those volunteers and voluntary organisations throughout Leeds who made an excellent contribution to the city.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted.

(b)  That the work which is taking place to support volunteering and the Third Sector be noted.

(c)  That Adult Social Care’s approach towards ensuring that a diverse care market thrives in Leeds, and where localism and volunteering are valued and encouraged alongside a wide variety of other providers, be noted and endorsed.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services seeking agreement for the outline plan for Brook House. In summary, this is to cease use of Brook House, sell the property and pass the proceeds of the sale to Leeds Community Foundation, to hold in trust for the people of Leeds (who broadly meet the requirements of the bequest) to support access to their individual choice of holiday arrangements.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report outlining proposals with regard to the future of Brook House. In summary, the report proposed to cease the use of Brook House, sell the property and pass the proceeds of the sale to Leeds Community Foundation, which would hold the sum in trust for those people of Leeds who broadly met the requirements of the bequest, in order to support their access to their individual choice of holiday arrangements. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

In responding to enquiries, officers undertook to provide Members with details of any similar properties within the Council’s possession which were located outside of the city boundary.

RESOLVED – That the following be approved, subject to the acceptance of the proposed course of action by the Charity Commission:-

·  The Council submit a proposal to the Charity Commission for the disposal of the property known as Brook House demonstrating why the intended new purpose is in the best interest of the charity.

·  That if approval is given by the Charity Commission to the Council’s proposals, the Council proceeds with the sale of the property known as Brook House.

·  The Council continues to work with Leeds Community Foundation to further an agreement on the establishment of a trust fund to continue to meet the broad requirements of the bequest from Harry Brook.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services enabling Executive Board to understand and respond to the potential impact on the local authority, of the Foundation Trust application process being undertaken by the Leeds NHS Trusts.

Appendix 1 to the report is designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3).

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report providing details of the Foundation Trust application process being undertaken by the Leeds NHS Trusts and which enabled the Board to consider and respond to the potential impact of such matters upon the local authority.  In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Following consideration of Appendix 1 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3), which was considered in private at the conclusion of the meeting it was

RESOLVED -

(a)  That the implications for the Local Authority arising from the Foundation Trust applications being undertaken by the Leeds NHS Trusts, be noted.

(b)  That the submission of the formal consultation responses be approved.

(c)  That a report providing further details regarding the current landlord and tenant issue between the Council and the Teaching Hospitals Trust, as outlined within exempt appendix 1 to the report, be submitted in due course.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services informing Elected Members of a finding of maladministration with injustice, in a report issued by the Local Government Ombudsman.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report which informed the Board of a finding of maladministration with injustice, in a report issued by the Local Government Ombudsman in November 2011. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

On behalf of the Council, the Board and the Chief Executive conveyed their full and unreserved apologies to the family concerned for the service which they had received. In addition, the Board acknowledged the swift and positive actions taken by both the Council and Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust following receipt of the complaint, whilst tributes were also paid to the invaluable work which continued to be undertaken throughout the city within the area of Adult Social Care.

RESOLVED -

(a)  That the Ombudsman’s Report and findings, together with the Council’s response be received and noted.

(b)  That it also be noted that this case dates back as far as 2008 and since then the Council has provided a significant training programme to workers in the areas of Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and the Mental Capacity Act. 

To consider the report of the Director of Resources setting out the Council’s projected financial health position after eight months of the financial year. The report reviews the position of the budget after eight months and comments on the key issues impacting on the overall achievement of the budget for the current year.

The Director of Resources submitted a report setting out the Council’s projected financial health position after eight months of the financial year. The report reviewed the position of the budget after eight months and commented upon the key issues impacting on the overall achievement of the budget for the current year. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Following Members’ enquiries, the Board was provided with the latest budgetary position within Environmental Services, specifically in relation to the provision of waste disposal. In addition, clarification was also provided to Members regarding the proposed allocation of the income which had been received from NHS Leeds. 

In conclusion, the Chair welcomed the all party approach which continued to be taken towards addressing the Council’s current budgetary position. In addition, he paid tribute to all the actions which had been taken to achieve the savings made to date, whilst emphasis was also placed upon the vital nature of the services the Council continued to provide to vulnerable groups.

RESOLVED - That the projected financial position of the authority after eight months of the financial year be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources presenting comments from Scrutiny Board (Resources and Council Services) on the revised Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy which contains a statement of the principles that the Council will apply when determining the large casino licence. The report also presents comments from Scrutiny Board (Resources and Council Services) on the Consultation Report which is the proposed Council response to the public consultation exercise on the large casino section in the Policy, and the draft application pack.

The Director of Resources submitted a report presenting comments from the Scrutiny Board (Resources and Council Services) on the revised Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy which contained a statement of the principles that the Council would apply when determining the large casino licence. In addition, the report also presented the comments from the same Scrutiny Board on the Consultation Report which was the proposed Council response to the public consultation exercise on the large casino section in the Policy, and the draft application pack. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Copies of the Statement of Licensing Policy 2010-2012 together with the Consultation Report had been circulated to Board Members for their consideration at the time of the agenda despatch.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the comments made by Scrutiny Board (Resources and Council Services) on the revised Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy 2010-2012 and the consultation report be noted as the Council’s response to the public consultation.

(b)  That the Statement of Licensing Policy 2010 – 2012, together with the associated Consultation Report be referred to full Council for approval.

(The matters referred to within this minute were not eligible for Call In, as the ultimate determination of such matters are reserved to Council)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing a response to the deputation from Scott Hall and Sholebroke Tenants’ and  Residents’ Association regarding the need for proper crossing facilities on Scott Hall Road, which was presented to Council on 16^th November 2011.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the issues raised by the Scott Hall and Sholebroke Tenants’ and Residents’ Association during the organisation’s deputation to the Council meeting held on 16th November 2011. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

The Executive Member for Development and the Economy advised that the matters raised by the deputation would continue to be monitored.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted.

(b)  That the concerns raised by residents be acknowledged.

(c)  That approval be given to a further survey being undertaken at a different time of year in order to capture any potential additional seasonal pedestrian demand.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing a response to the recommendation of Scrutiny Board (Regeneration),  which asks that Executive Board “reconsiders this interim housing policy as a matter of urgency with a view to reinstating the 2008 affordable housing targets in relation to Greenfield sites”.

Further to Minute No. 221, 18th May 2011, the Director of City Development submitted a report providing a response to the recommendation of Scrutiny Board (Regeneration) agreed by the Scrutiny Board on 29th November 2011, which asked that the Executive Board “reconsiders this interim housing policy as a matter of urgency with a view to reinstating the 2008 affordable housing targets in relation to Greenfield sites”. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Councillor J Procter, as Chair of the Scrutiny Board (Regeneration) highlighted the issues which had been raised during the Scrutiny Inquiry, which had led to the recommendation to Executive Board.

Concerns were raised in relation to the retrospective applications which had been submitted by some developers in line with the lower affordable housing provision percentage targets of the interim policy, despite already having planning permission with agreements for provision of affordable housing at the previous higher level, with specific emphasis being placed upon those instances concerning Greenfield sites.

Responding to the concerns raised, it was emphasised that the interim policy needed to be maintained in order to stimulate the industry, however, Members noted that the matter would be closely monitored and would be resubmitted to the Board for review as appropriate, in order to adapt to any changes within the housing market.  

In instances where permissions had been granted at appeal, but developers had yet to submit new planning applications for reduced contributions, Members highlighted as a potential way forward, the scope that the Local Planning Authority had to reconsider Section 106 packages on a case by case basis, and in consultation with local Members and communities could seek increased affordable housing contributions as a priority at the expense of other funding areas.   

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the existing 2011 Interim Affordable Housing policy targets as agreed by Executive Board in May 2011 be retained.

(b)  That a monitoring report on the progress of the revised policy be received by the Board in Summer 2012.

(c)  That it be clarified that the implementation period is 2 years from the date of the decision to grant planning permission, subject to Section 106 obligations in order to secure the early delivery of affordable housing and that at the end of 2 years if not implemented, the percentage of affordable housing will revert to whatever the policy is at the time.

(d)  That on those Greenfield sites which are granted at appeal with higher levels of affordable housing, and where lower levels of affordable housing is sought in accordance with the interim policy, regard is had to the content of the overall Section 106 package together with local priorities, in consultation with Ward Members and local communities.

(Councillor Golton declared a personal interest in this matter, due to having relatives working within the building trade)

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor Finnigan required it to be recorded that he voted against the decisions taken above)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development identifying a number of policies and proposals in Bradford’s Core Strategy: Further Engagement Draft 2011, which have the potential for significant impact upon Leeds, whilst also  recommending the submission of the response to Bradford’s Core Strategy, as appended to the cover report.

The Director of City Development submitted a report identifying a number of policies and proposals detailed within Bradford’s Core Strategy: Further Engagement Draft 2011, which had the potential to impact significantly upon Leeds. In addition, the report also recommended the submission of a response to Bradford’s Core Strategy, as appended to the submitted report. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Members welcomed the recommendations within the report, but highlighted that similar issues may need to be addressed in respect to other neighbouring Local Authorities’ Core Strategy documents. Responding to a specific enquiry, the Board noted that Kirklees Council’s Core Strategy was not yet at the same stage as Bradford’s and therefore the opportunity had not yet arisen to provide a response to it.

Following comments raised regarding the role which could be played by the Leeds City Region on this issue and the benefits of a cohesive approach being taken between authorities, the Chief Executive emphasised the good working relationships which existed between Leeds and Bradford and advised that further re-engagement could be made with other local authorities and on a Leeds City Region basis in addressing such matters, whilst further officer time could also be invested.

RESOLVED – That the Board formally object to Bradford’s Core Strategy: Further Engagement Draft, on the basis that:

(i)  proposals for redrawing the Green Belt boundary to enable development at Holme Wood and Menston would encroach into the strategic gap between Leeds and Bradford leading toward a merging of the two cities. 

(ii)   traffic congestion and hazards would be created to roads in Leeds, particularly the A657 and routes to Drighlington and beyond, and the A65.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval of the draft response to the Government’s proposals for reform of Neighbourhood Planning; Community Right to Build and Neighbourhood Development Orders.

Further to Minute No. 121, 2^nd November 2011, the Director of City Development submitted a report which presented for approval and subsequent submission to the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), the Council’s draft response to the Government’s proposals regarding the reform of Neighbourhood Planning; Community Right to Build and Neighbourhood Development Orders. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Concerns were raised regarding the resource and budgetary implications arising from the Government’s proposals which would be placed upon the Council and it was suggested that representations were made to the Government emphasising that in order to ensure the proposals were implemented successfully, additional resource would be required.

The Board considered the differing approaches towards the initiative which would be adopted by individual communities and Parish and Town Councils, and highlighted the role of Area Committees and Area Management in neighbourhood planning matters. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report, in association with the previous background information received by the Board at the meeting held on 2^nd November 2011, be noted.

(b)  That the response to the Government’s proposals for reform of Neighbourhood Planning; Community Right to Build and Neighbourhood Development Orders, as set out within section 3 of the submitted report and also in the questionnaire attached as Appendix 1 be approved, and that the response be submitted to the Department for Communities and Local Government before 5^th January 2012.

(c)  That the submitted report be circulated to Town and Parish Councils for their information.

(The matters referred to within this minute were not eligible for Call In, due to the 5^th January 2012 deadline for responding to the DCLG consultation process on the draft neighbourhood planning regulations)

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services detailing the outcome of the public consultation exercises undertaken on the expansion of primary provision across the city, and making recommendations for the next steps for each of the proposals.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report which detailed the outcomes arising from the public consultation exercises undertaken regarding the expansion of primary provision across the city. In addition, the report made several recommendations with respect to the next steps for each of the proposals detailed within the submitted report.  In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

In presenting the report, it was noted that regarding the Florence Street proposal, further consideration would need to be given to the activities on the existing refuse site which was in the proximity of the proposed school site. In addition, the strong representations which had been made regarding the proposal for the South Leeds Sports Centre site were acknowledged, and it was noted that work was ongoing in considering whether both leisure and educational provision could be accommodated on that same site.

In discussing this matter, Members highlighted the proposed significant expansion of Morley Newlands Primary School, received assurances regarding the work being undertaken in respect of Free Schools in Leeds and were provided with details regarding the costing exercise with respect to the decontamination work required at the Florence Street site. Having received details of what the temporary accommodation arrangements proposed within the submitted report entailed, assurances were provided that implementing such measures would be done in consultation with local Ward Members.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the publication of an ‘invitation to bid’ statutory notice for a proposed new 420 place school with 26 place nursery on land at Florence Street to serve families in that area, be approved.

(b)  That the publication of an ‘invitation to bid’ statutory notice for a proposed new 420 place school with 26 place nursery on land at the former South Leeds sports centre to serve families in that area, be approved.

(c)  That the publication of a statutory notice for the expansion of Morley Newlands Primary School from 420 pupils to 630 pupils be approved.

(d)  That it be noted the authority will commission temporary increases in a number of areas whilst further evidence is gathered to identify permanent expansion proposals.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting for consideration a letter from the Minister for Children and Families, Tim Loughton, to the Leader of the Council, which confirmed that the Improvement Notice placed upon Leeds Children’s Services in March 2010 had been lifted with immediate effect. In determining this matter, the Board took into consideration all matters contained within the accompanying report.

Copies of the report and appendices had been circulated to all relevant parties following the publication of the agenda papers.

The Board paid tribute to and thanked all officers involved, members of the Improvement Board, the Executive Member for Children’s Services and the Director for all of their efforts which had led to the Minister for Children and Families lifting the Improvement Notice for Children’s Services in Leeds. However, it was acknowledged that work would continue in order to ensure that Children’s Services provision across the city continued to improve.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the removal of the Improvement Notice from Children’s Services in Leeds be noted, and it be acknowledged that this is an important milestone for the ongoing improvement journey.

(b)  That the important role which the Improvement Board has played in supporting the improvements made be formally acknowledged, and in particular, the Independent Chair, Bill McCarthy, together with the Support and Challenge Advisor, Penny Thompson, and all the partner agencies on the Board be thanked for their key contributions.

(c)  That the workforce of the Council together with its partners be thanked for achieving this significant milestone, in addition to their continued support in rising to the outstanding performance challenges faced.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:   6^TH JANUARY 2012

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  13^TH JANUARY 2012   (5.00 P.M.)

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00 p.m. on 16^th January 2012)