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 1 to the report entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report for Holbeck Urban Village and Land Assembly Proposals’ referred to at Minute No. 203 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 relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). It is therefore considered that the public interest in maintaining the content of the appendix as exempt outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. Disclosing the amounts detailed within the appendix will jeopardise the Council’s ability to secure the best financial outcome and releasing information could have a detrimental impact upon the financial affairs of businesses that have tenancies at the Round Foundry Media Centre and Leodis Court.

(b)  Appendices A, C, D and E to the report entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report: Aire Valley Enterprise Zone - Progress and Next Steps’ referred to at Minute No. 205 are 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 contents of the appendices relate to the financial or business affairs of the Council, and therefore it is considered in the public interest that these appendices are designated as exempt from publication.

(c)   Appendix A to the report entitled, ‘Aire Valley Park and Ride Proposals’ referred to at Minute No. 206 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 contained within the appendix 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 relation to certain companies and charities. It is therefore considered that since this information was obtained through one to one negotiations for the purchase of the land/property referred to, then it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this point in time. Also, the release of such information would or would be likely to prejudice the Council’s commercial interests in relation to and undermine its attempts to acquire by agreement similar properties in the locality in that owners of other similar properties would be aware 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  ...  view the full minutes text for item 190.

With the agreement of the Chair, an updated version of Appendix 1 to agenda item 23 entitled, ‘Leeds Core Strategy: Further Pre-Hearing Changes to Policy H7: Accommodation for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople’ had been circulated to Board Members for their consideration. (Minute No. 211 refers).

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 at the meeting, however in relation to the agenda item entitled, ‘Part A: Outcome of Statutory Notice on Proposals for the Expansion of Calverley Church of England Primary School; Part B: Outcome on a Proposal for the Expansion of Broadgate Primary School; and Part C: Outcome of Statutory Notice on Proposals for the Expansion of Broomfield South SILC and West Oaks SEN Specialist School and College’, Councillor A Carter drew the Board’s attention to his position on the Board of Governors at Calverley Church of England Primary School.

In referencing the fact that he had previously voted on related matters in his position as a school governor, Councillor Carter emphasised that he would not participate on any vote taken at the Executive Board in respect of Calverley Church of England Primary School. (Minute No. 216 refers).

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 14^th February 2014

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 14^th February 2014 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services introducing the 2013/14 Local Account of Adult Social Care Services in Leeds. The report provides a summary of the main areas of achievement of Adult Social care and indicates areas of service identified as requiring further development to sustain or improve performance. Additionally, the report sets out the new responsibilities placed upon councils and explains the Local Accounts contribution towards enhancing local accountability to the public and as a tool to support sector led service improvement

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report introducing the 2013/14 Local Account of Adult Social Care Services in Leeds. The report provided a summary of the main areas of achievement of Adult Social Care and indicated those areas of service identified as requiring further development to sustain or improve performance. Additionally, the report set out the new responsibilities placed upon councils and explained the Local Account’s contribution towards enhancing local accountability to the public and also as a tool to support sector led service improvement.

Members welcomed the content of the Local Account document for the period 2013/2014.

RESOLVED –  That the contents of the submitted report, together with the appendedLocal Account for Leeds, entitled “Better Lives Lived”, be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services highlighting the involvement of Adult Social Care in a ground breaking national initiative called Developing and Empowering Resources in Communities (DERIC) - a community interest company established in May 2012 - to find new ways of funding and providing social care in the current context of decreasing resources and increasing demand.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report highlighting the involvement of Adult Social Care in a ground breaking national initiative called Developing and Empowering Resources in Communities (DERIC), which was a community interest company established in May 2012 to find new ways of funding and providing social care in the current context of decreasing resources and increasing demand.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry regarding the potential around the support which could be provided to Neighbourhood Network Schemes in Leeds by DERIC, the Board noted that DERIC was a national initiative and that the allocation of funding was provided on a national basis. However, it was also noted that some of the savings generated by the scheme would be used to fund the next tranche of national investment.

In conclusion, the strength of Neighbourhood Networks and the vital role they played throughout Leeds was highlighted.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the involvement of Leeds City Council in Developing and Empowering Resources in Communities or DERIC be endorsed.

(b)  That the continuing involvement of Adult Social Care in the governance structure of the national DERIC Board be approved, which will be subject to on-going monitoring by the Deputy Director of Adult Social Care, and subject to a six monthly review with the Executive Lead Member.

(c)  That the holding of a contingency fund created from within the current funding base of Adult Social Care be approved in order to enable Leeds City Council to guarantee the loan from DERIC to organisations in Leeds, and that it be noted that funding will be ‘drawn down’ rather than provided as a lump sum. Leeds City Council will, therefore, only need to ensure it holds sufficient funds to cover the amount that has been received.

(d)  That the future expansion of the use of this fund in Leeds be approved, subject to additional funding being made available from DERIC.

(e)  That approval be given for the Council to provide a guarantee to DERIC in respect of loans provided to organisations in Leeds and that the authority required to conclude the necessary agreements be delegated to the Director of Adult Social Services.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services providing information on the local development of plans for the Better Care Fund (BCF), the conditions of which were released by national government on 20 December 2013. The report explores the current and future implications for Leeds City Council in relation to the BCF, and highlights the role the BCF can play in bringing together partners to address the financial challenge facing the entire health and social care system in Leeds.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report providing information on the local development of plans for the Better Care Fund (BCF), the conditions of which were released by national government on 20 December 2013. In addition, the submitted report explored the current and future implications for Leeds City Council in relation to the BCF, and highlighted the role which the BCF could play in bringing together partners to address the financial challenge facing the entire health and social care system in Leeds.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry regarding the governance and scrutiny arrangements around the BCF initiative, the Board noted the tight timescales which had been involved in getting the Leeds BCF to the current position, that the matter had been considered by Scrutiny Board (Health and Wellbeing and Adult Social Care) and Members were provided with details around the further action which would be taken to keep Members briefed on related matters.

In conclusion, it was noted that a further report would be submitted to a future meeting of the Executive Board regarding the governance arrangements around the initiative and it was suggested that an event for Members be scheduled in the Autumn in respect of the wider implications for the city which would arise from the BCF initiative.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That it be noted that national Government launched the detailed guidance for the Better Care Fund on 20 December 2013, with a requirement for local authorities to develop a joint plan with the relevant CCGs; and requiring its sign off by the local Health and Wellbeing Board.

(b)  That it be noted that there are a number of potentially significant implications for Leeds City Council governance, budgeting and accounting arrangements arising from the requirements to establish a Better Care Fund, but given the tight national timescales at play, details of these are still to be worked through. It also be noted that the Deputy Director of Adult Social Care will continue to lead on the BCF on behalf of Leeds Council and will bring a further report to Executive Board in October 2014, which will advise the Board on the detail of outstanding governance, budgeting and accounting issues.

(c)  That it be noted that the first draft of the Leeds BCF was signed off by the Health and Wellbeing Board on 12 February 2014 as required by national Government, and that a final version will be signed off and submitted by 4 April 2014.

(d)  That it be noted that this first draft was signed off by the Director of Adult Social Services, in consultation with the relevant Executive Lead Councillors, on behalf of Leeds City Council and that the final version of the BCF plan will also be signed off by the Director of Adult Social Services, in consultation with the relevant Executive Lead Councillors, on behalf of the Council.

(e)  That notwithstanding the resolutions above, the following progress on the BCF to date be noted:-

·  Leeds has established 2014/15 as a shadow year  ...  view the full minutes text for item 196.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive on the Council’s projected financial position for 2013/14 after ten months of the financial year

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report on the Council’s projected financial position for 2013/14 after ten months of the financial year.

RESOLVED – Thatthe projected financial position of the authority after ten months of the financial year be noted.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) seeking Executive Board approval to establish criteria for project funding by the Social Inclusion Fund and identifies examples of specific activities that may be funded by the Social Inclusion Fund.

Further to Minute No. 69, 4^th September 2013, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report which sought approval to establish criteria for project funding by the Social Inclusion Fund and which identified examples of specific activities that may be funded by the Social Inclusion Fund.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the funding criteria be approved and that the example projects, which were agreed with partners during a consultation workshop on 24 January 2014 and which are appended to the submitted report, be noted.

(b)  That the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) be authorised to approve funding, within Financial Procedure Rules, of projects which meet the criteria for funding, as set out within the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive providing updated details on the Local Welfare Support Scheme and setting out how the scheme can continue to support the Citizens@Leeds approach to tackling poverty and deprivation

Further to Minute No. 97, 9^th October 2013, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing updated details on the Local Welfare Support Scheme and which also set out how the scheme could continue to support the Citizens@Leeds approach to tackling poverty and deprivation.

Members noted and raised concerns regarding the confirmation which had been received that there would be no Government funding for such schemes from 2015/2016 onwards. In emphasising the vital support which the Leeds scheme had provided since its establishment, it was requested that a letter be sent on behalf of the Board to Government highlighting the concerns which had been raised during the meeting regarding the withdrawal of Government funding towards the Local Welfare Support Scheme from 2015/2016 onwards.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to the current scheme continuing for 2014/2015.

(b)  That scheme funding be allocated, as set out within paragraph 3.3 of the submitted report.

(c)  That options be developed for emergency support schemes for 2015/2016, in light of the Government decision to discontinue direct scheme funding.

(d)  That a letter be sent on behalf of the Board to Government highlighting the concerns which had been raised during the meeting regarding the withdrawal of Government funding towards the Local Welfare Support Scheme from 2015/2016 onwards.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive which provides information on the work undertaken to review the 6 Best Council Plan 2013-17 objectives and priorities so that they reflect the progress made over the last year, the significant changes to the context in which we are working and to fully align our strategy with the 2014/15 budget. As a result, the report presents a revised ‘Best Council Plan - Plan on a Page’ that is brought to Executive Board for approval.  Furthermore, the report also sets out the next steps in developing the supporting detail.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report which provided information on the work undertaken to review the 6 Best Council Plan 2013-17 objectives and priorities to ensure that they reflected the progress made over the last year, the significant changes to the context in which the Council was working and to fully align the Authority’s strategy with the 2014/15 budget. As such, the submitted report presented a revised ‘Best Council Plan - Plan on a Page’ for approval. Furthermore, the report also set out the next steps in developing the supporting detail.

The Chief Executive emphasised the importance of the ‘Plan on a Page’ document together with the clear objectives contained within it, and highlighted the priority which would be given to the continued development of effective cross-directorate working throughout the Council.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the updated ‘Best Council Plan - Plan on a Page’ which sets out the Authority’s 6 strategic objectives and priorities for the next 3-4 years be approved.

(b)  That the next steps, as outlined within the submitted report, to further develop the rest of the Best Council Plan in time for the start of the 2014/15 financial year be noted.

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Strategy and Improvement Officer will be responsible for the implementation of such next steps.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being not eligible for Call In, as Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rule 5.1.2 states that the power to Call In decisions does not extend to those decisions made in accordance with the Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules. As the Best Council Plan forms part of the Budgetary and Policy Framework, it is therefore designated as exempt from call in)

To consider the joint report of the Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of City Development seeking approval to extend the guidelines for the award of discretionary rate relief to “for profit” organisations who meet the stated criteria, as now permitted under Section 69 of the Localism Act 2011.

Further to Minute No. 235, 24^th April 2013,the Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report which sought approval to extend the guidelines for the award of discretionary rate relief to “for profit” organisations who meet the stated criteria, as now permitted under Section 69 of the Localism Act 2011.

Members welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report and the assistance that the extension to the scheme would provide to businesses across the city.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposals to extend the guidelines for the award of discretionary relief for Business Rates from 1st April 2014 be approved.

(b)  That it be noted that the Deputy Chief Executive will be responsible for amending the guidelines for awarding discretionary relief.

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Economic Development Officer will be responsible for implementing the scheme from 1 April 2014, as outlined within Section 3.5 of the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to implement the A647/B6154 Thornbury Barracks Junction Pinch Point Scheme at a total estimated cost of £3,433,000.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to implement the A647/B6154 Thornbury Barracks Junction Pinch Point Scheme, at a total estimated cost of £3,433,000.

The Board welcomed the proposals to improve the Thornbury Barracks junction and the grant funding which had been successfully secured from the Department for Transport’s Local Pinch Point fund. 

A Member received reassurance to the comments raised in respect of the consultation exercises which had taken place regarding this and other schemes in the area.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposed works, as outlined within sections 3.1 and 3.2 of the submitted report and as indicated on drawing no. ‘‘EP-716952-MIS-05’ as appended, at an estimated cost of £3,433,000 be noted and approved.

(b)  That authority be given to incur expenditure of £3,433,000 (being £2,983,000 works costs, £400,000 internal staff fee costs and £50,000 other costs, including external staff fee costs), to be funded from a Department for Transport ‘Pinch Point’ grant of £2,403,000, Section 106 receipts of £142,000 and the LTP Transport Policy Capital Programme of £888,000.

(c)  That approval be given for the release of £142,000 (and any accrued interest) of section 106 monies collected through the Public Transport Improvements and Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document.

(d)  That it be noted that the Head of Engineering Services will be responsible for implementation, according to the timescales as set out in paragraph 3.13 of the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking agreement to the Council potentially acquiring assets in Holbeck Urban Village to support regeneration objectives in the area and to help stimulate economic growth.

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

Further to Minute No. 180, 14^th February 2014, the Director of City Development submitted a report which sought the Board’s agreement to the Council potentially acquiring assets in Holbeck Urban Village in order to support regeneration objectives in the area and to help stimulate economic growth.

Members welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report and the regeneration opportunities which they could promote.

In noting the difficulties which had been experienced by the Council in gaining access to Holbeck Viaduct, it was requested that on behalf of the Board, the Chief Executive write to the Chief Executive of Network Rail in order to try and resolve this matter.

Following consideration of Appendix 1 to the submitted report, designated as exempt from publication 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 agreement be given for the Council to acquire the freehold interest in Leodis Court from the Homes and Communities Agency, in accordance with the terms set out within paragraph 5.0 of the exempt Appendix 1 to the submitted report.

(b)  That agreement be given for the Council to take assignment of the lease at the Round Foundry Media Centre, in accordance with the terms as set out within paragraph 5.0 of the exempt Appendix 1 to the submitted report.

(c)  That the Director of City Development be authorised, in conjunction with legal services and in consultation with the Executive Member for Development and the Economy and the Deputy Chief Executive, to take steps to finalise and enter in to the agreements with the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), in order to acquire the freehold interest in Leodis Court and the lease at Round Foundry Media Centre, in accordance with the terms as set out within paragraph 5.0 of the exempt Appendix 1 to the submitted report.

(d)  That the injection of the sum identified within exempt Appendix 1 into the capital programme for the purchase of Leodis Court be approved and that authority be given to spend the monies for the purchase of Leodis Court.

(e)  That it be noted that the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer will be responsible for the implementation of resolutions (a), (b) and (c) above, and that the timescales for implementation, as set out within exempt Appendix 1 to the submitted report also be noted.

(f)  That should access to the Holbeck Viaduct not be achieved, then the Chief Executive write to the Chief Executive of Network Rail regarding the difficulties which had been experienced by the Council in gaining access to the Viaduct, in order to try and resolve this matter.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being exempt from Call In. A decision may be declared as being exempt from Call In if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or the public interest. In this case, it is deemed that this report  ...  view the full minutes text for item 203.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development setting out the recommended main proposals from Leeds City Council to be incorporated into the Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan.

Further to Minute No. 165, 22^nd January 2014, the Director of City Development submitted a report which set out the recommended main proposals from Leeds City Council to be incorporated into the Leeds City Region (LCR) Strategic Economic Plan.

Members noted that the Leeds City Council submission towards the LCR Strategic Economic Plan would be considered by the Local Enterprise Partnership for inclusion within the overarching LCR Strategic Economic Plan document. In addition, the Board discussed the time period which the Strategic Economic Plan would cover.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the main emerging priorities from Leeds, which will form the basis for Leeds City Council’s submission to the Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan, be endorsed.

(b)  That the approach of using the Core Cities “asks” of Government, as the basis for our proposals to Government, through the Strategic Economic Plan and the City Growth Deal, for greater devolution to support economic growth be endorsed.

(c)  That the Chief Economic Development Officer be requested to co-ordinate further work to develop the proposals from Leeds for input into the Strategic Economic Plan, and also to work closely with the Leeds City Region team on the production of the Strategic Economic Plan.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being exempt from Call In. A decision may be declared as being exempt from Call In if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or the public interest. In this case, the exemption from Call In is due to the tight timescales for finalising the Strategic Economic Plan, specifically, the Local Enterprise Partnership Board meeting to consider the draft plan is scheduled for 17th March 2014)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing an update on the development within the Enterprise Zone and also seeks approval for a series of investment packages, which will trigger, if delivered alongside the development of a new Park & Ride facility within the Aire Valley, major development on up to 3 employment sites within the zone.

(Please note that Appendices A, C, D and E to the report are designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3)).

The Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the development within the Aire Valley Enterprise Zone and which also sought approval for a series of investment packages, which will trigger, if delivered alongside the development of a new Park and Ride facility within the Aire Valley, major development on up to 3 employment sites within the zone.

Members supported the proposals detailed within the submitted report.

Following consideration of Appendices A, C, D and E to the submitted report, all designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3), which were considered in private at the conclusion of the meeting, it was

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the strategy currently being adopted for the Enterprise Zone ofsecuring investment in infrastructure to open up sites and supportingdevelopment of commercial floor space, be approved.

(b)  That the principle for the acceptance of the grant from the Government’s “Building Foundations for Growth” (BFG) fund be approved, and that approval of the terms be delegated to the Director of City Development and the Deputy Chief Executive.

(c)  That it be noted that the BFG grant of £8,570,000 has been injected into the capital programme.

(d)  That the principle of entering into individual funding and investment packages, with the individual developers of Logic Leeds, Connex 45 and Temple Green be approved, and that the detailed recommendations relating to this matter, as set out within the exempt Appendix A to the submitted report, also be approved.

(e)  That the principle of prudentially borrowing the money required to fund the investment packages for Logic Leeds and Connex 45, as set out within exempt Appendix A to the submitted report, be approved.

(f)  That the principle of seeking funding from the Revolving Investment Fund for a contribution towards the cost of the investment package for Connex 45, be approved.

(g)  That the injection of funds into the capital programme in respect to the individual investment packages for Logic Leeds and Connex 45, as set out within exempt Appendix A to the submitted report, be approved.

(h)  That the Director of City Development be authorised, in consultation with the Leader, the Executive Member for Development and the Economy, the Deputy Chief Executive and the City Solicitor, to use his delegated powers to spend the BFG grant sums, as identified within exempt Appendix A to the submitted report and that authority to spend also be granted in respect of the individual investment packages as set out within exempt Appendix A.

(i)  That the Director of City Development be authorised, in consultation with the Leader, the Executive Member for Development and the Economy, the Deputy Chief Executive and the City Solicitor to use his delegated authority to enter into any and all necessary documentation, contracts and agreements required to facilitate the delivery of the individual development packages.

(j)  That the resolutions detailed above be declared exempt from the Call In process.

(The matters referred to within this minute were  ...  view the full minutes text for item 205.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing an update on progress towards delivering a Park & Ride site in Aire Valley within the Enterprise Zone and which also seeks approval to move forward with the project.

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

The Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the progress made towards delivering a Park and Ride site in the Aire Valley within the Enterprise Zone and which also sought approval to move forward with the project.

The Board welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry regarding the potential for the early delivery of park and ride provision based at Bodington Fields, officers undertook to look into this matter further and respond accordingly to the Member in question.

Following consideration of Appendix A to the submitted report, designated as exempt from publication 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 principal of a 1000 space strategic Park and Ride site in the Enterprise Zone be endorsed.

(b)  That the principle of progressing the scheme in partnership with Metro via the West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund (WY+TF) be approved.

(c)  That the provisionally agreed heads of terms agreement with Aire Valley Land Ltd to purchase a 10 acre remediated site for a 1,000 space park & ride facility be approved, subject to funding approval from the WY+TF and planning permission being granted. Also, that any further consideration of terms for the acquisition be delegated to the Director of City Development to consider and approve as appropriate, under the appropriate scheme of delegation, with the concurrence of the Executive Member for Development and the Economy and also the Deputy Chief Executive.

(d)  That the submission of a joint planning application for the 1,000 space park & ride facility in association with Aire Valley Land Ltd. be approved, subject to the WY+TF approval processes.

(e)  That it be noted that Metro will tender for a bus operator to run an exclusive service between the site and the city centre, subject to the WY+TF approval processes.

(f)  That the following also be noted:-

i.   The stages required to implement the decision, as outlined in section 3.8 of the submitted report.

ii.   The proposed timescales for implementation, as outlined in section 3.8 of thwe submitted report.

iii.   That the Chief Officer Highways and Transportation will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being exempt from Call In. A decision may be declared as being exempt from Call In if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or the public interest. In this case, a delay in completing all the necessary legal documentation as soon as practically possible may have an adverse impact on the securing of the BFG grant and achieving the programme of works to enable delivery within the specified timeframe)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development presenting the Leeds Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and seeking approval to recommend to Council that the Leeds Local Flood Risk Management Strategy be formally adopted.

The Director of City Development submitted a report presenting the Leeds Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and which sought approval to recommend to Council that the Leeds Local Flood Risk Management Strategy be formally adopted.

Members welcomed the comprehensive report and paid tribute to the work which continued to be undertaken by the Flood Risk Management team.

Consideration was given to the issue of building upon flood plains, with emphasis being placed upon the need to ensure that such development was prohibited wherever possible. It was noted that a report on such matters was scheduled to be submitted to a future meeting of the Board.

Emphasis was placed upon the need for the Environment Agency to maintain strong local links with the city, despite the closure of its Leeds based office.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That full Council be recommended to formally adopt the Leeds Local

Flood Risk Management Strategy.

(b)  That it be noted that the Head of Engineering Services will be responsible for implementing the strategy once formally adopted.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being not eligible for Call In, as Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rule 5.1.2 states that the power to Call In decisions does not extend to those decisions made in accordance with the Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules. As the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy forms part of the Budgetary and Policy Framework, it is therefore designated as exempt from call in)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development setting out the Authority’s response to the deputation made to Council on 15^th January 2014 by the New Farnley Vision Group

The Director of City Development submitted a report setting out the Council’s response to the deputation presented to the meeting of full Council on 15th January 2014 by the New Farnley Vision Group.

RESOLVED – Thatthe contents of the submitted report be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing outlining the Environment and Housing Department’s response to the  recommendations made by the Safer and Stronger Scrutiny Board following their review of the role and allocation of Police Community Support Officers in Leeds . The Scrutiny Report is appended to this report.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report which outlined the Environment and Housing directorate’s response to the recommendations made by the Scrutiny Board (Safer and Stronger Communities) following the Scrutiny Board’s review into the role and allocation of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in Leeds .

The report of the Scrutiny Board (Safer and Stronger Communities) entitled, ‘Review of the Role, Number and Allocation of Police Community Support Officers in Leeds’ was appended to the submitted report for Board Members’ consideration.

As Chair of the Scrutiny Board (Safer and Stronger Communities), Councillor Anderson provided the Board with a brief introduction to the findings and recommendations arising from the Scrutiny Board’s review.

Having discussed a number of issues associated with the Scrutiny Board review, Members highlighted the vital role played by PCSOs within the community, specifically emphasising the reassuring presence that the officers provided.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Director of Environment and Housing be requested to bring back a workable solution on the deployment of PCSOs, following consultation with the Police, with the matter being reported back to a future meeting of the Executive Board.

(b)  That recommendations 2 and 3 of the Scrutiny Board (Safer and Stronger Communities) as detailed within the review report, be supported.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which sets out the key implications of the main modifications for the Council, and which also seeks formal approval to publish the modifications for the purposes of consultation.

Further to Minute No. 181, 14^th February 2014, the Director of City Development submitted a report which set out the key implications for the Council arising from the schedule of Main Modifications, and which also sought formal approval to publish the modifications for the purposes of consultation.

In response to Members’ enquiries, the Board received an update in respect of the work which continued to be undertaken to develop the Council’s evidence base in respect of a 5 year land supply for Leeds.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the ‘Main Modifications’ to the Core Strategy be approved, in order for these to be advertised, for a 6 week period of consultation.

(b)  That the revisions to the Core Strategy policies for Affordable Housing

(H5) and Gypsy’s and Travellers (H7) be agreed and published for the purposes of consultation, prior to the May 2014 Hearing sessions.

(c)  That approval be given to the publication of a simplified monitoring framework for the purposes of consultation, subject to agreement with the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Support Services.

(d)  That it be noted that the Head of Forward Planning and Implementation will be responsible for the implementation of such matters, in line with the timescales as set out within the submitted report.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being exempt from Call In. A decision may be declared as being exempt from Call In if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or the public interest. In this case, the inspector has identified a need for Main Modifications to the draft Core Strategy in order to resolve problems that would otherwise make the plan unsound. The Council must therefore agree the Main Modifications and carry out a further public consultation exercise on these if the process is to move forward. Therefore, this report is exempt from Call In given the need to consult on the modifications/changes for 6 weeks and in time for any representations to be considered and evidence prepared prior to the resumed Core Strategy hearing in May 2014)

To consider the report of the Director of Development seeking approval of proposed revisions to the Core Strategy Policy H7 in respect of Accommodation for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople, for the purposes of public consultation and also subsequent submission to the Core Strategy Inspector for discussion at the further hearing session in May 2014.

The Director of Development submitted a report which sought approval of proposed revisions to the Core Strategy Policy H7 in respect of Accommodation for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople, for the purposes of public consultation and also subsequent submission to the Core Strategy Inspector for discussion at the further hearing session in May 2014.

An updated version of Appendix 1 to the submitted report had been circulated to Board Members for their consideration.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That subject to the incorporation of those revisions as detailed within the updated Appendix 1 which had been submitted to Board Members for their consideration, the revised Core Strategy Policy H7 Accommodation for Gypsies,Travellers and Travelling Showpeople be approved for the purposes of: i) public consultation; and ii) subsequent submission to the Core Strategy Inspector for discussion at the further hearing session in May 2014.

(b)  That it be noted that the Head of Forward Planning and Implementation will be responsible for implementation of such matters in line with the timescales as set out within paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 of the submitted report.

(The matters referred to within this minute were designated as being exempt from Call In. A decision may be declared as being exempt from Call In if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or the public interest. In this case it is deemed appropriate that this matter be exempted from Call In as there is a requirement to maintain progress on the Core Strategy, given the need to conduct a 6 week consultation period prior to the further hearing session scheduled for May 2014)

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing which seeks approval to inject £0.7m of available affordable housing S106 funding into the capital programme for the purpose of building 12 additional pitches of accommodation at Cottingley Springs. In addition, the report seeks authority to spend £1.79m to develop 12 new pitches for the expansion of the Cottingley Springs Site, subject to the outcome of the Local Inquiry to be held by the Secretary of State into this planning application. 

Further to Minute No. 69, 5^th September 2012, the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report which sought approval to inject £700,000 of available affordable housing S106 funding into the capital programme for the purpose of building 12 additional pitches of accommodation at Cottingley Springs. In addition, the report also sought authority to spend £1,790,000 in order to develop 12 new pitches for the expansion of the Cottingley Springs Site, subject to the outcome of the Local Inquiry to be held by the Secretary of State into this planning application.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That £700,000 of available affordable housing S106 funding be injected into the Capital Programme.

(b)  That authority be given to spend £1,790,000 in order to develop twelve new pitches for the expansion of the Cottingley Springs Site, subject to the outcome of the Local Inquiry to be held by the Secretary of State into the planning application.

(c)  That it be noted that the Director of Environment and Housing will be responsible for the progression of this development and that it also be noted that a further report will be submitted to Executive Board following the outcome of the Local Inquiry.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing providing an update to Executive Board on progress with the delivery of Housing Management Review outcomes.The report also requests approval to the Housing Advisory Board’s proposal that the Council moves away from the Government’s decent homes standard towards the development of a Leeds Housing Standard which gives thermal efficiency more prominence. 

The report goes on to suggest that Executive Board agree to a review of the Tenure Strategy during 2014/15.

Further to Minute No. 47, 17^th July 2013, the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing an update on the progress made regarding the delivery of Housing Management Review outcomes. In addition, the report also sought approval to the Housing Advisory Board’s proposal that the Council moves away from the Government’s decent homes standard and towards the development of a Leeds Housing Standard which gives thermal efficiency more prominence.

By way of introduction to the report, the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Support Services highlighted the substantial savings which had been made to date following the implementation of the review. However, emphasis was placed upon the Council’s priorities which centred around tenants receiving a consistently high quality service, with particular reference being made to housing repair service provision. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the considerable progress which is being made to deliver the outcomes of the Housing Management Review be noted, together with the savings that have already been accrued or are forecasted to accrue as the implementation programme progresses.

(b)  That it be recognised that the Government’s decent homes standard is no longer the sole investment driver, and that the Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing be requested to undertake work in order to develop a new housing standard for Leeds which takes account of improvement priorities for tenants, particularly around thermal efficiency.

To consider the joint report of the Directors of Children’s Services and City Development provides a response to the deputation presented to Full Council on 12 January 2014, entitled ‘Life Cycle of Leeds’. The report was presented by Charlotte Williams, the winner of the Leeds Children’s Mayor competition.

This report acknowledges the timeliness and importance of Charlotte’s manifesto, in contributing to the best council and best city ambitions, in putting the voice of children and young people at the heart of key transport developments in the city (notably the City Connect cycle project) and in the year when the Tour de France comes to the region and presents a unique opportunity to create a legacy and lasting enthusiasm around cycling.

The Director of Children’s Services and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report which responded to the deputation presented to the full Council meeting of 15 January 2014, entitled ‘Life Cycle of Leeds’. The deputation was presented by Charlotte Williams, the winner of the Leeds Children’s Mayor competition.

Members welcomed the deputation and the number of priorities which had been raised within it. The Board highlighted the importance for children and young people to be involved in consultation processes associated with the development of cycling infrastructure. In addition, Members emphasised the benefits of the ‘City Connect’ scheme, but also highlighted the importance of 20mph zones within residential areas which could be used as a catalyst to further encourage young people to cycle in their neighbourhood.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That a letter be written to Charlotte on behalf of Executive Board, thanking her for highlighting her vision for improving cycling opportunities for children and young people in Leeds, whilst also offering her the Board’s congratulations on being elected as Children’s Lord Mayor.

(b)  That approval be given for Leeds City Council to work with key partners in order to ensure that children and young people are explicitly given the opportunity to contribute towards any consultation and development of significant new cycle paths and facilities in the city, including the ‘City Connect’ project and on-going developments as part of the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan (WYLTP) implementation.

(c)  That Charlotte be invited to meet with key members and officers involved in managing the Tour de France event as well as those who are responsible for and ensuring that there is a sustainable legacy post July 2014.

(d)  That Charlotte’s wishes as outlined within her deputation, and as detailed below, be noted:-

(i) promoting cycling for children and young people;

(ii) ensuring children and young people can make safe journeys around the city;

(iii) considering developing further cycling paths to places like schools and leisure centres and into the city centre;

(iv) providing more safe ‘lock up’ places for bikes in schools, parks and in the centre of Leeds;

(v) supporting potential opportunities for raising funds through sponsorship; and

(vi) ensuring Charlotte’s wishes are considered at all stages throughout the planning process of delivering a successful Tour de France 2014 and build them into the legacy as and when appropriate.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services presenting an analysis of outputs from the Turning the Curve’ Outcomes Based Accountability (OBA) workshop held by the Children’s Trust Board and Health and Well-being Board in October 2013. The report notes that the proportion of children entering care at birth or before the age of 5 has increased significantly, with these children now forming the majority of care entrants and reflects on the complex reasons for this change. The significant partnership activity across the city to address the increase in the number of infants entering care is outlined in the report; including the commissioning and development of new services. Finally, the report provides proposals for the further development of coordinated multi-agency responses to reduce the number of babies and infants becoming looked after for the Executive Board to consider.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting an analysis of outputs from the ‘Turning the Curve’ Outcomes Based Accountability (OBA) workshop jointly held by the Children’s Trust Board and Health and Wellbeing Board in October 2013 and detailed proposals for the further development of co-ordinated, multi-agency responses aimed at to reducing the number of babies and infants becoming looked after.

Members noted the key parental factors detailed within the submitted report, consistent with both national and international research, which had been identified as common in those cases resulting in children being taken into care.

The Board highlighted the vital importance of early intervention wherever possible, and as such, emphasised the need to ensure that effective inter-directorate and inter-agency work in such matters was maximised.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received an update regarding the drug and alcohol treatment and recovery service provision, and the flexibility which was available around such provision to ensure that effectiveness of the service was maximised.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the issues raised within the submitted report be noted and that the importance of such issues be highlighted.

(b)  That the direction of travel, as outlined within the submitted report be supported.

(c)  That the arrangements for monitoring progress over the next year, as detailed within the submitted report, be agreed.

(d)  That it be noted that the officer responsible for progressing this matter is the Deputy Director, Safeguarding, Specialist and Targeted.

To consider the report of the Director of Childrens Services on proposals brought forward to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. The report is divided into three parts and seeks a final decision on each of the following proposals:

Part A - describes the outcome of a statutory notice in relation to the expansion of Calverley C of E Primary School from September 2015, and seeks a decision on this proposal.

Part B - summarises the consultation regarding a proposal to expand Broadgate Primary School, Horsforth, and seeks permission to publish a statutory notice.

Part C - describes the outcome of statutory notices in relation to the expansion of special educational needs provision within Leeds for September 2015 and seeks a final decision on these proposals.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report on proposals brought forward to meet the Local Authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. The report was divided into three parts and it sought a final decision on each of the following proposals:-

Part A - Described the outcome of a statutory notice in relation to the expansion of Calverley Church of England Primary School from September 2015, and which sought a decision on this proposal.

Part B - Summarised the outcomes arising from the consultation undertaken regarding a proposal to expand Broadgate Primary School, Horsforth, and which sought permission to publish a statutory notice in respect of such matters.

Part C - Described the outcome of statutory notices in relation to the expansion of special educational needs provision within Leeds for September 2015 and which sought a final decision on such proposals.

With regard to proposals relating to Calverley Church of England Primary School, a Member highlighted the positive impact that such proposals would have, once all issues relating to access had been resolved.

Responding to a Member’s comments regarding the increasing levels of demand for school places, the Board received an update on the ongoing cross-directorate work being undertaken to address such matters throughout the city. 

RESOLVED –

Part A:

(a)  That the expansion of Calverley Church of England Primary School from a capacity of 315 to 420 pupils, with an increase in the admission number from 45 to60 with effect from September 2015, be approved.

Part B:

(a)  That the publication of a statutory notice to expandBroadgate Primary School from a capacity of 210 pupils to 420 pupils, with an increase inthe admission number from 30 to 60 with effect from September 2015, be approved.

Part C:

(a)  That 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) with effect from September 2015, be approved.

(b)  That the expansion of West Oaks SEN Specialist School and College from a capacity of 200 to 350 pupils by the creation of an additional site for 150 children and young people aged 2 to 16 on the former Blenheim Centre (Crowther Place, Leeds, LS6 2ST) with effect from September 2015, be approved.

Parts A-C:

(a)  That it be noted that the Head of Service, Strategic Development

and Investment is responsible for implementing such decisions by September 2015.

(Earlier in the meeting, Councillor A Carter had brought the Board’s attention to his position on the Calverley Church of England Primary School Board of Governors. As he had previously voted in his capacity as school governor on matters relating to those detailed within the submitted report regarding the Primary School, Councillor Carter did not participate in any vote taken at the Executive Board meeting in relation to the school)

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing advising members of the progress on design development and cost estimates for the refurbishment of Kirkstall Road TLS and HWSS, and the intention of Environment and Housing to value engineer the scheme down from a RIBA stage D total of £4.3m, prior to the issue of tenders. The report also seeks authority to spend up to £4.3m from existing budget provision (capital scheme no 16169) on the refurbishment.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing an update on the progress made regarding the design development and cost estimates for the refurbishment of Kirkstall Road Transfer Loading Station (TLS) and Household Waste Sorting Site (HWSS). In addition, the report detailed the intention of Environment and Housing to value engineer the scheme down from a RIBA stage D total of £4,300,000, prior to the issue of tenders. Finally, the report sought authority to spend up to £4,300,000 from existing budget provision (capital scheme no 16169) on the refurbishment.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the RIBA stage D designs and cost estimates for the redevelopment of Kirkstall TLS and HWSS be approved.

(b)  That expenditure up to a limit of £4,300,000 from existing budget provision (capital scheme 16169) on the redevelopment of Kirkstall TLS and HWSS, be authorised.

(c)  That the further development of designs and the procurement of a contractor to carry out construction work at Kirkstall TLS and HWSS be approved.

(d)  That the following be noted:-

(i)  The actions required to implement the resolutions (above);

(ii)  The proposed timescales to undertake the proposed works, as detailed within paragraph 3.2.1 of the submitted report; and

(iii)  That the Chief Officer Waste Management will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development setting out the authority’s response to the issues raised in the deputation made to Council on 15^th January 2014 in respect of Leeds International Piano Competition

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the issues raised by the deputation presented to the meeting of full Council on 15th January 2014 in respect of Leeds International Piano Competition, the spokesperson for which was Dame Fanny Waterman.

Members highlighted the significant contribution that the Leeds International Piano Competition made towards the city’s cultural offer. In addition, emphasis was placed upon the competition’s importance when considering the international recognition which it brought to Leeds.

RESOLVED – That it be noted that free use of the Civic Hall has been granted to the Piano Competition in2015.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:  FRIDAY, 7^TH MARCH 2014

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  FRIDAY, 14^TH MARCH 2014 AT 5.00 P.M.

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00noon on Monday, 17^th March 2014)