Agenda and minutes

1  To highlight reports or appendices which officers have identified as containing exempt information within the meaning of Section 100I of the Local Government Act 1972, 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 the recommendation is accepted, to formally pass the following resolution:-

RESOLVED –  That, in accordance with Regulation 4 of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of those 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 press and public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information.

RESOLVED – That, in accordance with Regulation 4 of The Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012, the public be excluded from the meeting during 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 A to the report entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report for West Yorkshire Local Broadband Project and Authority to Spend’ referred to in Minute No. 68 is designated as  exempt in accordance with paragraph 10.4(3) of Schedule 12A(3) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that it contains information about the commercial proposals put forward by the bidder for the broadband infrastructure contract. The public interest in maintaining this confidentiality outweighs that of disclosure.

(b)  Appendix 1 to the report entitled, ‘Late Night Levy’ referred to in Minute No. 70 is designated as  exempt in accordance with paragraphs 10.4(3) and 10.4(7) of Schedule 12A(3) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that it contains specific detail relating to the deployment of police staff in the night time economy. 10.4 (3) relates to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).  10.4 (7) relates to Information relating to any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. It is considered that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information at this time.

(c)  Appendix 3 to the report entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report for Acquisition of Kernel House, Acorn Business Park, Leeds 14 for Council Accommodation’ referred to in Minute No. 73 is designated as exempt in accordance with paragraph 10.4(3) of Schedule 12A(3) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that the information relates to the financial or business affairs of a particular person and 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 relates to a financial offer that the Council has submitted to purchase the property in a one to one negotiation 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  ...  view the full minutes text for item 57.

There were no late items as such, however, Board Members were provided with an updated version of the table detailed within paragraph 4.4.4 of Agenda Item 12 entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report for West Yorkshire Local Broadband Project and Authority to Spend’ for their consideration (Minute No. 68 referred).

To disclose or draw attention to any disclosable pecuniary interests for the purposes of Section 31 of the Localism Act 2011 and paragraphs 13-16 of the Members’ Code of Conduct.

There were no Disclosable Pecuniary Interests declared to the meeting, however:-

In relation to the item entitled, ‘The Future Management and Pricing Arrangements for Allotments’, Councillor A Carter drew the Board’s attention to his position as President of the Calverley Horticultural Society’. With regard to the same item, Councillor Golton drew the Board’s attention to his position as Vice President of Leeds and District Gardeners’ Federation and also to the fact that he is an allotment holder, whilst also, Councillor Mulherin drew the Board’s attention to the fact that her father shares an allotment (Minute No. 63 refers).

In relation to the Part A of agenda item 28 entitled, ‘Outcome of Statutory Notice on Proposals for the Expansion of Primary Provision in 2014’, Councillor Mulherin drew the Board’s attention to her position as Chair of Governors of Robin Hood Primary School (Minute No. 84 refers). 

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 17^TH July 2013

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the meeting held on 17^th July 2013 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services on the outcome of the consultation undertaken in respect of eight Council owned residential care homes for Older People and seeking approval of the recommendations arising from the findings of the consultation.

(Please note that due to the considerable size of the appendices to this report, the appendices are provided in a separate pack for consideration).

Further to Minute No. 182, 15^th February 2013, the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report on the outcome of the consultation undertaken in respect of eight Council owned residential care homes for Older People and which sought approval of the recommendations arising from the findings of the consultation. In addition, the report also provided responses to the respective deputations presented to the 1^st July 2013 Council meeting regarding Manorfield House and Primrose Hill Care Homes.

As part of the introduction to the report, the Executive Member for Adult Social Care acknowledged and thanked all of those who had taken part in the wide ranging consultation exercise and together with the Director of Adult Social Services, provided further information and assurances around the sensitive and considered approach which would be taken when dealing with those affected by the decisions made at today’s meeting.

Following the introduction, the Board then discussed and received responses to the following key points:-

·  It was noted that the submitted report had not responded specifically to the deputation presented to the West (Outer) Area Committee on the 10^th July 2013 regarding the future of Musgrave Court;

·  A Member highlighted the need to ensure that there were sufficient levels of specialist dementia care provision available in Leeds, and emphasised that suitable intermediate care provision needed to be provided to those affected by any changes, as and when they occurred;

·  Emphasis was placed upon the need for Adult Social Services to work jointly with City Development via the Local Development Framework process, in order to ensure that there was sufficient care provision available in the long term;

·  The importance of mixed economy of Adult Social Care provision in Leeds was highlighted, along with the need for individuals to be cared for within their own community wherever possible.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the very extensive and wide ranging consultation undertaken be noted and that all contributors be thanked for their thoughtful and helpful comments which have informed the recommended outcomes.

(b)   That the commitment and process which will be followed to ensure all people affected by the adoption of the recommendations are provided with comprehensive care planning and support in identifying appropriate alternative provision, be noted.

(c)   That the implementation of the following proposals for the long term residential care homes be agreed, namely:

  (a)  To close Amberton Court, Burley Willows, Fairview and Musgrave Court (see paragraph 8.2, Table 2 of the submitted report).

  (b)  To agree that Suffolk Court be re-designated over time to offer transitional care, with the objective of eventual conversion as a specialist clinical intermediate care centre (see paragraph 8.5, Table 3 of the submitted report).

  (c)  To agree that Manorfield House and Primrose Hill remain open (see paragraph 8.5, Table 3 of the submitted report) to provide residential care for existing residents but with no new admissions and will close:

•  when no longer required by existing residents;

•  if the health and wellbeing of the remaining residents cannot be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 61.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services on the outcome of the consultation undertaken in respect of day centres for Older People and seeking approval of the recommendations arising from the findings of the consultation.

Further to Minute No. 183, 15^th February 2013, the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report on the outcome of the consultation undertaken in respect of day centres for Older People and which sought approval of a number of recommendations arising from the findings of the consultation.

As part of the introduction to the report the Executive Member for Adult Social Care paid tribute to the work of the Neighbourhood Network schemes in this field, and gave a commitment that under proposals agreed in this phase, any affected groups of friends wishing to move together, would be able to do so, should they wish.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the very extensive and wide ranging consultation undertaken be noted and that all contributors be thanked for their thoughtful and helpful comments which have informed the recommended outcomes.

(b)  That the recommendations to close Doreen Hamilton, Naburn Court and Queenswood Drive day centres be approved, and that alternative uses for the buildings by community groups be actively pursued, in particular:

•  Developing the role of the Doreen Hamilton building in the wider community or as a day care satellite to Osmondthorpe Children’s Centre

•  It is proposed to develop the role of Naburn Court day centre so that it can play a wider role in the life of the local community

•  Working with community groups formerly based at the West Park Centre and local Neighbourhood Networks who have shown an interest in the Queenswood Drive building

(c)  That the recommendation to close Burley Willows Day Centre and declare the site surplus, with the stipulation that the site be marketed for the construction of extra care housing, be approved.

To consider the report of the Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing which summarises the findings from consultation and provides recommendations on the future management and pricing arrangements for allotments.

The Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing submitted a report which summarised the findings from the consultation exercise undertaken in respect of service delivery in this area and which provided recommendations on the future management and pricing arrangements for allotments.

Members discussed the nature of the consultation exercise which had been undertaken on this issue. In addition, the Board also considered the proportion of allotments which were currently self managed, and in response to a Member’s comments, it was noted that further work would be undertaken to encourage more sites to become self managed in the future. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That a phased price increase commencing in autumn 2014 to recover £50,000 subsidy, with a £15,000 above inflation rise in 2015 and 2016, projecting a full subsidy recovery of £80,000 in 2016/17, be approved.

(b)  That approval be given to Allotment Associations being given notice to terminate the existing lease on 29^th September 2013 to allow a renegotiation based upon the Allotment Associations keeping 32% of allotment rental by 2016/17 (which with the proposed price increases is the equivalent in monetary terms to the value currently retained).

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor Golton required it to be recorded that he voted against the matters included within this minute, whilst Councillor A Carter required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on the matters included within this minute)

To consider the joint report of the Director of Public Health and the Director of City Development providing further details relating to the Leeds Let’s Get Active (LLGA) pilot project.  Executive Board gave its support to the Leeds Let’s Get Active Pilot in April 2013 and accepted a £500k grant from Sport England as part of the overall project costs, this report seeks to provide the Board with additional information relating to the development of the project,  the methodology applied and the overall programme developed to date.

Further to Minute No. 229, 24^th April 2013, the Director of Public Health and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report providing further details regarding the Leeds Let’s Get Active (LLGA) pilot project, including additional information on the development of the project, the methodology applied and the overall programme developed to date.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the progress made with the implementation of the Leeds Let’s Get Active programme be noted.

(b)  That the proposals detailed in paragraph 3.2 of the submitted report for daily free 1 hour access at leisure centres and 2 hour free access at John Charles Centre for Sport, Armley, Fearnville and Middleton Leisure centres, be agreed.

(c)  That the proposals for the free community offer and the Bodyline Access Scheme be endorsed.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to submit a Stage 2 bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) under the Skills for the Future Initiative in order to progress the development and delivery of the Re-making Leeds project. Stage 2 of the process will incorporate a detailed training plan to be submitted by 31^st December 2013, and the report seeks agreement for the Council to act as administrator and accountable body for the operation of the bid. Additionally, approval is sought to incur the necessary expenditure of up to £810,300 for the works, as proposed within the report.

The Director of City Development submitted a report seeking approval to submit a Stage 2 bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) under the Skills for the Future Initiative in order to progress the development and delivery of the Re-making Leeds project. Stage 2 of the process would incorporate a detailed training plan to be submitted by 31^st December 2013, and the report sought agreement for the Council to act as administrator and accountable body for the operation of the bid. Additionally, approval was also sought to incur the necessary expenditure of up to £810,300.

The Board welcomed the initiative, and responding to a Member’s enquiry regarding the level of job opportunities which would be available to those participating in the training, officers undertook to provide the Member in question with further information. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the submission of a Stage 2 bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for the Skills for the Future initiative, based on the programme outlined in the submitted report be approved.

(b)  That approval be given to the Council acting as the accountable body for the bid, subject to Stage 2 being approved, and that authority be given to spend £810,300 on the activity outlined in the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources providing an update on the financial implications of the June 2013 Spending Review as detailed in the Technical Consultation provided by the Department for Communities and Local Government on 25^th July 2013

The Director of Resources submitted a report providing an update on the financial implications of the June 2013 Spending Review, as detailed in the Technical Consultation document provided by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) on 25^th July 2013.

Members highlighted the financial implications for the Authority arising from the DCLG’s Technical Consultation document. In response, the Chief Executive emphasised the need for partnership working with, for example, health partners and the Local Enterprise Partnership.

The Board then discussed Leeds’ funding envelope when compared respectively with the funding provided to Scottish Local Authorities and also those located within the South East of England. In conclusion, it was requested that correspondence on behalf of the Board be submitted to Government, highlighting the concerns in respect of funding cuts which had been highlighted during the meeting.

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That correspondence on behalf of the Executive Board be submitted to Government, highlighting the concerns in respect of funding cuts which had been highlighted during the meeting.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources presenting the Council’s projected financial health position for 2013/2014 after four months of the financial year.

The Director of Resources submitted a report presenting the Council’s projected financial health position for 2013/2014 after four months of the financial year.

Further to a previous enquiry raised, it was agreed that a more detailed submission for the Public Health directorate would be included within the financial health monitoring data for next month.

RESOLVED – That the projected financial position of the authority after four months of the financial year be noted, and that a more detailed submission for the Public Health directorate be included within the financial health monitoring data for next month.

To consider the joint report of the Director of Resources and the Director of City Development informing of the progress that has been made on the West Yorkshire Local Broadband project and also seeking approval in respect of a proposed injection of external funding from BDUK and ERDF into the capital programme

Please note that Appendix A of the report is designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3)

The Director of Resources and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report informing of the progress that had been made on the West Yorkshire Local Broadband (WYLB) project. In addition the report also sought approval in respect of a proposed injection of external funding from BDUK and ERDF into the capital programme.

It was noted that Board Members had been provided with an updated version of the table detailed within paragraph 4.4.4 of the submitted report, for their consideration.

Members discussed the progress which had been made to date on the scheme, highlighting issues arising from the Government’s Super Connected Cities (SCC) initiative, and the associated State Aid implications.  In conclusion, Members noted the work being undertaken to progress the programme and requested that further update reports be submitted to the Board in due course for consideration. 

Following consideration of Appendix A to the submitted report, designated as exempt under the provisions of 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 delivery of the West Yorkshire Local Broadband project by Leeds City Council on behalf of the partnership be approved.

(b)  That approval be given for £2,100,700 of external funding to be injected into Capital Scheme Reference 16662.

(c)  That Authority to Spend within the capital programme scheme reference 16662 be approvedfor the sum of £2,100,700,  on the installation of broadband infrastructure in the administrative areas of the WYLB Authorities.

(d)  That the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development in order to authorise entering into a contract with the preferred bidder for the supply of the works and services, as described within the submitted report  and for the sum described within paragraph 3.4 of the submitted report.

(e)  That the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development in order to authorise entering into funding agreements with BDUK and DCLG for £4,615,000 and £3,787,800 respectively.

(f)  That further update reports on this matter be submitted to the Board in due course for consideration. 

(The matters referred to within this minute were not eligible for Call In as being subject to call in may adversely affect the critical project timetable which requires contract signature at the earliest possible date. In addition, it was not possible to submit an earlier report to te Board as the tender (and the information set out in exempt appendix A) was not submitted until 11^th July 2013, which was too late to meet July Executive Board submission deadlines).

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) seeking approval to establish a Social Inclusion Fund using funds generated by the city granting a ‘large’ casino licence. In addition, the report also seeks approval to the principles of the management and administration of the fund. 

The Director of City Development and the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a joint report which sought approval to establish a Social Inclusion Fund (SIF) using funds generated by the city granting a ‘large’ casino licence. In addition, the report also sought approval to the principles of the management and administration of the fund. 

Members highlighted the need to ensure that the benefits gained from the allocation of funding were maximised, and also looked forward to the compilation of the criteria which would be used to allocate the funding.

RESOLVED –

(a)  The establishment of the Social Inclusion Fund, utilising moneys accrued by the council granting a large casino licence, be approved.

(b)  That approval be given for the money received as the ‘up-front payment’ being invested in initiatives that support the city’s anti-poverty priorities over the three year period prior to the opening of the casino and that annual payments be used to fund projects that both mitigate potential harmful social effects of the large casino and more general social inclusion priorities across the city.

(c)  That approval be given for the Social Inclusion Fund to be retained as a revenue reserve.

(d)  That the Licensing Committee receive an annual report on the nature of projects being supported by the Social Inclusion Fund.

(e)  That the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) administers and oversees fund allocation and, following further engagement with Elected Members and city partners, presents a report to Executive Board setting out recommendations for specific activities that will be funded by the SIF and how the fund will link into other schemes and initiatives within the city. 

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) presenting information to Executive Board in order to enable the Board to make decisions relating to the design of a potential late night levy and consultation with those affected.

Please note: Appendix 1 of the report is designated exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3 and 7).

The Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report presenting information, which included the recommendations of the Licensing Committee, to enable the Board to consider the design of a potential late night levy and the form of an associated consultation exercise with those affected.

It was agreed that this report be withdrawn from the agenda in order to enable further work to be undertaken on it and also to request that the relevant Scrutiny Board consider the issues within it, prior to the matter being further considered by Executive Board.

Following consideration of Appendix 1 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3) and 10.4(7), which was considered in private at the conclusion of the meeting, it was

RESOLVED – That the submitted report be withdrawn from the agenda in order to enable further work to be undertaken on it and also to request that the relevant Scrutiny Board consider the issues within it, prior to the matter being further considered by Executive Board.

To consider the report of the Director of Public Health which seeks to gain approval to tender for integrated sexual health services and a number of additional prevention contracts for Leeds.

The Director of Public Health submitted a report which sought to gain approval to tender for integrated sexual health services and a number of additional prevention contracts for Leeds.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposal to tender for integrated sexual health services for Leeds be approved.

(b)  That the proposal to also tender for a number of additional sexual health contracts delivering direct preventative work targeting those most at risk of sexual ill health (men who have sex with men, young people, female sex workers and African communities), be approved.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides an overview of the work undertaken to prepare a Neighbourhood Framework for Belle Isle and Middleton and sets out the primary proposals included within the document. Additionally, the report seeks approval of the neighbourhood framework to set out the community’s regeneration ambitions, help to promote the development opportunities in the area to developers, be used to inform the emerging Site Allocations Plan, and become a material consideration when determining planning applications

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided an overview of the work undertaken to prepare a Neighbourhood Framework for Belle Isle and Middleton and which also set out the primary proposals included within the document. Additionally, the report sought approval of the neighbourhood framework which set out the community’s regeneration ambitions, would help to promote the development opportunities in the area to developers, be used to inform the emerging Site Allocations Plan, and become a material consideration when determining planning applications.

A copy of the draft Belle Isle and Middleton Neighbourhood Framework document had been provided to Board Members for their consideration as part of the agenda pack.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board noted the origins of the document and that the local community and local stakeholders had been heavily involved in its development. Members also discussed the potential for Neighbourhood Framework documents being prepared for other communities.

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That the Belle Isle and Middleton Neighbourhood Framework be approved.

(c)  That approval be given for the Belle Isle and Middleton Neighbourhood Framework to be used to inform the emerging site allocation plan as part of the local plan making process.

(d)  That approval be given to the Belle Isle and Middleton Neighbourhood Framework to be used to inform, guide and be used as a material consideration when determining planning applications.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Director of Children’s Services seeking approval to acquire office accommodation at Kernel House, Acorn Business Park, Leeds 14, to facilitate vacant possession, and the subsequent disposal of the Council owned site at Roundhay Road.

Please Note that Appendix 3 of the report is designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 10.4 (3).

The Director of City Development and the Director of Children’s Services submitted a joint report which sought approval to acquire office accommodation at Kernel House, Acorn Business Park, Leeds 14, to facilitate vacant possession, and the subsequent disposal of the Council owned site at Roundhay Road.

Following consideration of Appendix 3 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under the provisions of 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 contents of the submitted report be noted.

(b)  That an acquisition of the long leasehold interest for Kernel House on the terms identified in the exempt Appendix 3 be approved, which will provide the Council with the unencumbered freehold interest in the site, to facilitate the relocation of Children’s Services staff from Roundhay Road, and thus secure vacant possession of the site in readiness for its future disposal at the earliest opportunity.

(c)  That the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development to agree the final detailed terms for the acquisition.

(d)  That the injection of the sum identified in exempt Appendix 3 into the Capital Programme be approved, together with the authority to spend the monies as required.

(e)  That approval be given to the ring fencing of the balance of the net receipt for the Roundhay Road site in order to fund the acquisition of Kernel House.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides an update on the progress of the proposals to provide flood defences for the City of Leeds and seeks approval to the tender for the detailed design and construction of the mitigation works downstream of the city centre at Woodlesford.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided an update on the progress of the proposals to provide flood defences for the City of Leeds and which also sought approval to the tender for the detailed design and construction of the mitigation works downstream of the city centre at Woodlesford.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That an injection of funding into the Capital Programme of £3,362,000 from the Regional Growth Fund, and £23,000,000 from the Defra Growth Fund be approved.

(b)  That authority be given to the expenditure from the Regional Growth Fund and Defra Growth Fund of £3,638,800 for the initial development and design of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme and for the implementation of advance mitigation works in Woodlesford.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development on Business Improvement Districts, and the need for the City Council to have a considered approach to developing an appropriate policy framework to support emerging BIDs. The purpose is to encourage the private sector to bring forward BID proposals and ensure that BIDs develop successfully in alignment with the Council’s strategic objectives for supporting business, encouraging investment in the trading environment and providing the necessary support to foster economic growth and jobs

The Director of City Development submitted a report on Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), and the need for the Council to have a considered approach to developing an appropriate policy framework to support emerging BIDs, in order to encourage the private sector to bring forward BID proposals and also to ensure that BIDs were developed successfully in alignment with the Council’s strategic objectives for supporting business, encouraging investment in the trading environment and providing the necessary support to foster economic growth and jobs.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, officers provided reassurances regarding the measures which would be taken to prevent small businesses located within BIDs being disadvantaged by the initiative and undertook to provide the Member in question with a briefing on this matter. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Board agree to being open to the private sector bringing forward proposals for BIDs that are in line with the Council’s strategic policy objectives, namely to improve and promote the city centres and town and district centre as successful retail and leisure and tourism destinations.

(b)  That approval be given to adopt the position of in principle support for BIDs, subject to a full BID proposal coming forward from a proposer which should be aligned to the Council’s objectives, and there being clear evidence of an effective partnership and approach to delivery.

(c)  That support be given to initial BID inception work in the early stages by using the City Council’s expertise to offer high level advice on BID development as necessary.

(d)  That support be given to the need to undertake further work to examine the case for a Tourism BID (TBID), as well as other potential mechanisms for securing private sector funding for work to improve and promote Leeds as a destination for visitor, and host city for major events.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Director of Environment and Housing providing an update on proposals for the development of a new horticultural nursery at Whinmoor Grange to replace existing operational facilities at Red Hall.  The report highlights the current role and benefits of the nursery, an outline business case for its relocation and future benefits of a new nursery.  The report also seeks approval to commission detailed design proposals to RIBA stage D for the Whinmoor Grange site.  In addition, the report provides an update on work to establish the medium-term strategic disposal opportunity that will subsequently arise for the Council’s land holdings at Red Hall and the progress made on feasibility work to inform the scope of redevelopment. 

The Director of City Development and the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a joint report providing an update on proposals for the development of a new horticultural nursery at Whinmoor Grange to replace existing operational facilities at Red Hall.  The report highlighted the current role and benefits of the nursery, an outline business case for its relocation and future benefits of a new nursery.  In addition, the report also sought approval to commission detailed design proposals to RIBA stage D for the Whinmoor Grange site, whilst also providing an update on work to establish the medium-term strategic disposal opportunity that would subsequently arise for the Council’s land holdings at Red Hall, together with the progress which had been made on feasibility work to inform the scope of redevelopment. 

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, officers undertook to provide the Member in question with further information on a specific planning matter regarding the proposed development. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the use of land at Whinmoor Grange to develop a replacement horticultural nursery be approved.

(b)  That commencement of the design and site layout of a circa 6 hectare horticultural nursery facility and ancillary facilities at Whinmoor Grange to RIBA stage D, funded from existing budget provision (Capital Scheme No. 16442), indicating how this would relate to adjoining parts of the site, be approved.

(c)  That a further report be submitted to Executive Board in the form of a Design and Cost report, outlining the processes involved in progressing the development of a horticultural nursery at Whinmoor along with further detail on funding.

(d)  That the progress on feasibility work undertaken to inform the development of the Red Hall site, be noted.

(e)  That the key development principles, as set out within the submitted report and accompanying concept plan, including the retention of two pitches on site, be noted and confirmed.

(f)  That approval be given to the process and timetable for the production of a draft Informal Planning Statement to guide future planning applications, disposal and development of the site for housing and related infrastructure, to include requirements for greenspace, scale and type of development, highways, pedestrian and cycle movement, as well as more detailed design guidance.

(Under the terms of Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rule 3.1.6, during the consideration of this item, Councillor Anderson was invited to attend the remainder of the meeting on behalf of Councillor A Carter, who left the meeting at this point).

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing providing a response to the Hands off our Homes Deputation made to Council on 1^st July 2013 in respect of the impact of the Social Sector Size Criteria (SSSC) or “bedroom tax” on council tenants. The report also sets out the measures the Council and its ALMOs/BITMO partners are undertaking to minimise the impact of the changes and some early findings on such impacts.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing a response to the deputation from the ‘Hands off our Homes’ organisation presented to Council on 1^st July 2013 in respect of the impact of the Social Sector Size Criteria (SSSC) or “bedroom tax” on council tenants. In addition, the report also set out the measures which the Council and its ALMOs/BITMO partners were taking to minimise the impact of the changes and also provided some early findings on such impacts.

As part of the introduction to the report the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Support Services encouraged those people who faced financial difficulty as a result of the changes to the welfare system to approach the Council, so that they could be offered assistance wherever possible.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the concerns raised in the deputation from the ‘Hand off our Homes’ organisation be acknowledged.

(b)  That the following be noted:-

·  the extensive work that was put into preparing staff and affected customers for the changes;

·  the work currently being undertaken by the Council and its ALMOs and BITMO to minimise the impact on tenants; and

·  the early findings on the impacts of the welfare changes.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development setting out a response to the deputation made to Council on 1st July 2013 by the Morley Against Reckless Construction (MARC) organisation.

The Director of City Development submitted a report setting out a response to the deputation presented to Council on 1st July 2013 by the Morley Against Reckless Construction (MARC) organisation.

As part of the introduction the report, the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Support Services highlighted that every effort was being made to ensure that the Council was taking a co-ordinated and consistent approach on this issue.

RESOLVED – That the contents of the submitted report be noted.

To consider the joint report of the Deputy Chief Executive and the City Solicitor providing the background to the establishment of Civic Enterprise Leeds, including proposals to establish the trading company and determine the governance and board arrangements for the company.

The Deputy Chief Executive and the City Solicitor submitted a joint report providing the background to the establishment of Civic Enterprise Leeds, including proposals to establish a trading company entitled, ‘Civic Enterprise Leeds Ltd.’, whilst also seeking consideration of the governance and board arrangements for the company.

The report proposed to delegate to the Deputy Chief Executive approval of commercial activity through the company, and it was emphasised that this would only be done subject to consultation with appropriate Members.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the establishment of a company, to be named Civic Enterprise Leeds Ltd., which would be limited by shares and owned wholly by the Council, be approved.

(b)  That a further report be brought back to Executive Board in due course seeking approval of the governance and board membership arrangements for the company.

(c)  That approval of commercial activity through the company, including approving business cases as and when required for the exercise of trading powers, be delegated to the Deputy Chief Executive, subject to consultation with appropriate Members. 

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing requesting the Executive Board to authorise the injection of £4.05m into the capital programme  for Cross Green Group Repair Phase 2 and 3. This total includes the approval to inject £0.3m into the capital programme for contributions from the owner occupiers and the £3.75m agreed by the Board in February 2013.

Further to Minute No. 173, 15^th February 2013, the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report which sought approval to authorise the injection of £4,050,000 into the capital programme for Cross Green Group Repair Phase 2 and 3. This total included the approval to inject £300,000 into the capital programme for contributions from the owner occupiers and the £3,750,000 previously agreed by Executive Board.

The Board highlighted the need for investment and regeneration in this particular area, and the benefits which would be gained from it.  In addition, officers responded to an enquiry regarding the Sustainable Communities Investment Programme and whether the funding from it could potentially be accessed for other areas.

RESOLVED –

a)  That an injection of £300,000 in owner’s contributions towards the overall cost of the group repair scheme in Cross Green as part of the Sustainable Communities Investment Programme, be authorised.

b)  That scheme expenditure of £4,050,000 on Gross Green Phase 2 and 3 be authorised.

c)  That the management of the project within the agreed budget be delegated to the Director of Environment and Housing, including ensuring that wherever possible, local labour, training and supply chains are used by the chosen contractor as part of the delivery of the schemes.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval of the Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Pitch Requirement Study in order to ensure that the Submission Core Strategy policy dealing with Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople is supported by an up to date evidence base, which is compliant with national policy and aligns with the wider activities of the Council in planning positively for Leeds-based Gypsies and Travellers.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval of the Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Pitch Requirement Study in order to ensure that the Submission Core Strategy policy dealing with Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople was supported by an up to date evidence base, which was compliant with national policy and aligned with the wider activities of the Council in planning positively for Leeds-based Gypsies and Travellers.

Members were provided with an update on the role of the Leeds City Region in respect of this issue.

Further to the Inquiry into Gypsy and Traveller Site Provision in Leeds undertaken by the Scrutiny Board (Environment and Neighbourhoods) in 2010, it was requested that the data considered at that time be re-examined by the relevant Scrutiny Board along with any fresh data, in order to contribute towards the policy development process.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Pitch Requirement Study be approved for the purposes of supporting Policy H7 of the Submission Core Strategy at Examination.

(b)  That the approach to making further changes to the plan, as set out within paragraphs 2.8 and 2.9 of the submitted report be approved.

(c)  That further to the Inquiry into Gypsy and Traveller Site Provision in Leeds undertaken by the Scrutiny Board (Environment and Neighbourhoods) in 2010, the data considered at that time be re-examined by the relevant Scrutiny Board along with any fresh data, in order to contribute towards the policy development process.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as exempt from Call In as the matter was deemed to be urgent, and as the Core Strategy Inspector had set a deadline of 16^th September 2013 for the submission of supplementary statements by the Council for the Core Strategy examination, and that any delay may damage the Council’s or public’s interest).

To consider the report of the Director of City Development outlining the reasoning for the amendment to Core Strategy Policy H6, relating to Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). Further details on PBSA within Leeds can be found in the ‘Student Housing Demand and Supply: A review of evidence’ document produced by Re’New, whichy is attached as Appendix 2 to the submitted report.

The Director of City Development submitted a report outlining the reasoning for the amendment to Core Strategy Policy H6, relating to Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). It was noted that further details on PBSA within Leeds could be found within the ‘Student Housing Demand and Supply: A review of evidence’ document produced by Re’New, which was appended to the submitted report.

As part of the introduction to the report the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Support Services emphasised the need for the Council to establish a defined policy in this area, in order to enable the authority to defend its position on such matters.

RESOLVED –

(a)     That the revision to Policy H6 of the Core Strategy, as set out within Appendix 1 to the submitted report, be approved for the purposes of targeted public consultation, as set out within paragraphs 3.1.1 and 3.1.2, prior to the Core Strategy examination.

(b)   That it be agreed that the policy amendments may be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications until the Core Strategy is adopted.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor Golton required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on the matters included within this minute)

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as exempt from Call In as the matter was deemed to be urgent, and as the Core Strategy Inspector had set a deadline of 16^th September 2013 for the submission of supplementary statements by the Council for the Core Strategy examination, and that any delay may damage the Council’s or public’s interests)

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services seeking permission to consult on the addition of provision reserved by the Local Authority for deaf and hearing impaired children at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report which sought permission to consult upon the addition of provision reserved by the Local Authority for deaf and hearing impaired children at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School.

RESOLVED – That approval be given to the undertaking of a consultation exercise on the addition of provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School that is recognised by the Local Authority as reserved for pupils who are deaf and hearing impaired, with effect from September 2014.

To consider the report of the Director of Childrens Services detailing proposals brought forward to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. The report is divided into four parts - Part A describes the outcome of statutory notices in relation to the expansion of primary provision across the city for September 2014, and seeks a final decision on these proposals. Part B seeks permission to publish a statutory notice in relation to the expansion of Pudsey Primrose Hill Primary School and summarises the consultation and next steps in Guiseley.  Part C seeks permission to consult on the expansion of Broomfield South SILC and the expansion of West Oaks SEN Specialist School and College.  Part D describes the outcome of the Targeted Basic Need bid.

The Director of Childrens Services submitted a report detailing proposals brought forward to meet the Local Authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. The report was divided into four parts - Part A described the outcome of statutory notices in relation to the expansion of primary provision across the city for September 2014, and sought a final decision on such proposals. Part B sought permission to publish a statutory notice in relation to the expansion of Pudsey Primrose Hill Primary School and summarised the consultation and next steps in respect of the Guiseley area.  In addition, Part C sought permission to consult upon the expansion of Broomfield South SILC and the expansion of West Oaks SEN Specialist School and College. Whilst Part D described the outcome of the Targeted Basic Need bid.

As part of the introduction to the report, the Executive Member for Children’s highlighted a correction to be made to the submitted report, specifically that the report should recommend that consultation be undertaken with regard to the potential expansion of West Oaks SEN Specialist School and College from 200 to 350, and not 130 to 280, as detailed within the submitted report.

RESOLVED –

Part A

(a)  That the expansion of Allerton Bywater Primary School from a capacity of 210 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 30 to 60 with effect from September 2014, be approved.

(b)  That the expansion of Asquith Primary School from a capacity of 210 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 30 to 60 with effect from September 2014, be approved.

(c)  That the expansion of Morley St Francis Catholic Primary School from a capacity of 154 pupils to 210 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 22 to 30 with effect from September 2014, be approved.

(d)  That the expansion of East Ardsley Primary School from a capacity of 315 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 45 to 60 with effect from September 2014, be approved.

(e)  That the expansion of Robin Hood Primary School from a capacity of 315 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 45 to 60 with effect from September 2014, be approved.

(f)  That approval be given to lower the age range of Hollybush Primary School from 5 to 11 to 3 to 11.

Part B

(a)  That the publication of a statutory notice to expand Pudsey Primrose Hill from a capacity of 315 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 45 to 60 with effect from September 2015, be approved.

(b)  That the further work to be undertaken in the Guiseley area be noted.

Part C

(a)  That permission to consult on the expansion of Broomfield South SILC from a capacity of 200 to 250 pupils with effect from September 2015 using a site adjacent to the school, Broom Court ( Broom Place, Leeds, LS10 3JP),  ...  view the full minutes text for item 84.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services providing information on proposals to establish a Leeds Behaviour Alliance intended to bring together the specialist (SILC), targeted (PRU), locality (AIP), and individual school behaviour offer in order to support children to make progress in learning by preventing exclusion from learning, providing outstanding learning opportunities when short periods out of mainstream are necessary, and maximise re-integration back into mainstream learning.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report providing information on proposals to establish a Leeds Behaviour Alliance which intended to bring together the specialist (SILC), targeted (PRU), locality (AIP), and individual school behaviour offer, in order to support children to make progress in learning by preventing exclusion from learning, providing outstanding learning opportunities when short periods out of mainstream were necessary, and to maximise re-integration back into mainstream learning.

Members welcomed the clarification provided within the submitted report that children with SEN statements and complex or multiple needs who benefited from generic SILC provision, would not be placed in a provision alongside children with a behaviour need.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the publication of a statutory notice for the change in the age range of the BESD Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (Elmete Wood) from 5 to 16 to 11 to 16; the expansion of the capacity of the provision from 150 to 200 pupils using sites at Elmete Wood, Stonegate Road, the Burley Park Centre, the Hunslet Gate Centre, and the Tinshill Centre; and the expansion of its remit to allow it to offer provision to children without a statement of special educational needs, in the manner of a PRU, with effect from January 2014, be approved.

(b)  That the publication of a statutory notice for the expansion of the North East Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (Oakwood Lane) primary BESD provision from a capacity of 30 pupils aged 4-11 to 40 pupils aged 4-11; and the expansion of its remit to allow it to offer provision to children without a statement of special educational needs, in the manner of a PRU, with effect from January 2014, be approved.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:    6^TH SEPTEMBER 2013

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  13^TH SEPTEMBER 2013 (5.00 P.M.)

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00noon on Monday, 16^th September 2013)