Agenda and minutes

The Chair welcomed all in attendance to the meeting and congratulated Councillor A Carter on recently receiving the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) honour.

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)  Appendices 5 and 6 to the report entitled, ‘The First White Cloth Hall and the Lower Kirkgate Townscape Heritage Initiative’, referred to in Minute No.10 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 they contain information which relates to City Fusion Ltd as a business and its release may prejudice their commercial interests and withholding the information is considered to outweigh the public interest benefit of its release. Further risks, in addition to those outlined in section 4.6 of the submitted report, are identified in exempt Appendix 6 which relate to the financial or business affairs of the Council. Disclosure of those risks would be prejudicial to the interests of the Council. It is considered that the public interest in treating this information as exempt from publication  outweighs the public interest in disclosing it.

(b)  Appendix 1 to the report entitled, ‘265 and 269 Roundhay Road, Harehills, Leeds, LS8’, referred to in Minute No.11 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 respect of certain companies and charities.  It is considered that since this information was obtained through one to one negotiations for the disposal of the property/land then it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this point in time.  Also, it is considered that the release of such information would, or would be likely to prejudice the Council’s commercial interests in relation to other similar transactions in that prospective purchasers of other similar properties would have access to information about the nature and level of consideration which may prove acceptable to the Council. It is considered that whilst there may be a public interest in disclosure, much of this information will be publicly available from the Land Registry following completion of this transaction and consequently the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing this information at this point in time. 

(c)  Appendix A to the report entitled, ‘Aire Valley Enterprise Zone Park and Ride Proposal Update and Funding Approval’, referred to in Minute No.12 is designated as exempt in accordance with paragraph 10.4(3)  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.

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, ‘Financial Performance: Outturn Financial Year Ended 31^st March 2014’, Councillor Yeadon drew the Board’s attention to her position as Chair of the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Board of Management (Minute No. 24 refers). 

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 2^nd April 2014

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 2^nd April 2014 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the joint report of the Director of Public Health, the Director of Adult Social Services and the Director of Children’s Services presenting an update on the work and achievements of the Health and Wellbeing Board, one year on from becoming a formal Board.

The Director of Public Health, the Director of Adult Social Services and the Director of Children’s Services submitted a joint report presenting an update on the work and achievements of the Health and Wellbeing Board, one year on from being established as a formal Board.

It was noted that the Health and Wellbeing Board had approved the first annual report at its meeting held on 18^th June 2014.

The Board welcomed the first annual report and the achievements which had been made to date. Members noted the significant challenges which lay ahead in this field and the work which continued to be undertaken in order to address such challenges. Also, Members welcomed that £5,000,000 from the savings made through Adult Social Care contingency actions had been transferred to an earmarked reserve for ‘pump priming’ the Better Care Fund in 2014/2015. 

RESOLVED – That the achievements of the Health and Wellbeing Board in its first year, as detailed within the attached draft report, ‘Leeds Health and Wellbeing Board: Our First Year’ be noted, and that it also be noted that the report was submitted for approval to the Health and Wellbeing Board on the 18th June 2014.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development presenting the Council’s response to the deputation presented to full Council on 26^th March 2014 by the “Meanwood Road Safety Campaign”.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the deputation presented to full Council on 26^th March 2014 by the “Meanwood Road Safety Campaign”.

The Board welcomed the report and received contributions from the Leeds Cycle Network which were put forward by a Member. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report, and the success of the measures already implemented on Tongue Lane to substantially improve its casualty record in the context of the overall road safety record for Leeds, be noted;

(b)  That the recent review of the site and discussions with schools undertaken following the deputation be noted;

(c)  That the constraints of the site in relation to safe provision of formal crossing facilities be noted;

(d)  That the development of further proposals in the current financial year to assist road safety and to aid pedestrian movements at the mini roundabout at the junction of Church Lane and Parkside Road, be endorsed;

(e)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer Highways & Transportation will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the joint report of the Director of Children’s Services and the Director of City Development outlining the background to the use of and potential disposal of the site previously used for Fir Tree Primary School, Alwoodley. In addition, the report also explains the approaches made by the Khalsa Education Trust and the Department for Education for the transfer of the site.

The Director of Children’s Services and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report outlining the background to the use of and potential disposal of the site previously used as Fir Tree Primary School, Alwoodley. 

By way of an introduction to the submitted report, the Executive Member for Transport and the Economy provided some context to the matters raised within the submitted report and moving forward, highlighted the options which were open to the Council.

In discussing this matter, Members considered a range of issues, including:-

·  The educational and wider needs of the local community and how this site may be utilised in order to maximise the benefit for that community;

·  The length of time that the site had been vacant;

·  The level of contact and discussions which had been held between all relevant parties;

·  The terms on which any potential transfer may be made and the resource implications arising from this.

RESOLVED – That further information be sought on the matters raised during the consideration of this item, with a further report being submitted to the Board on such matters in due course, in order to enable the Board to determine the most appropriate course of action to take.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor A Carter required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on the decisions referred to within this minute)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing an overview of the work undertaken to prepare a Neighbourhood Framework for Beckhillls and which sets out the proposals included within the document.  The report also seeks approval of the Neighbourhood Framework for consultation and identifies the possible delivery and funding approach to ensure that the neighbourhood improvements identified within the document can be achieved.

The Director of City Development submitted a report providing an overview of the work undertaken to prepare a Neighbourhood Framework for Beckhillls and which set out the proposals included within the document. The report also sought approval of the Neighbourhood Framework for the purposes of consultation and identified the possible delivery and funding approach to ensure that the neighbourhood improvements identified within the document could be achieved.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry into the ways in which a Neighbourhood Framework could be established, it was noted that a default criteria had not been established, but that a tailored approach was taken to best fit the needs and strengths of specific communities. However, invitations were extended to any neighbourhoods that wished to submit an expression of interest in establishing a Neighbourhood Framework in the future.

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That approval be given for the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer to undertake public consultation on the draft Beckhill Neighbourhood Framework in July 2014;

(c)  That a further report be presented to Executive Board by October 2014 which details any proposed changes to the Framework and which also seeks approval of the final document.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing an update on the progress being made to accommodate all relevant users of the West Park Centre following the permanent closure of the centre

Further to Minute No. 30, 17^th July 2013, the Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the progress being made to accommodate all relevant users of the West Park Centre following the permanent closure of the centre

In presenting the report, the Executive Member for Transport and the Economy drew the Board’s attention to the Local Government Ombudsman’s report on the matter which had been included within the submitted agenda for Members’ consideration.

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

To consider the report of the Director of City Development on the Lower Kirkgate Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) seeking approval to enter into an agreement with the owner of First White Cloth Hall on the basis of the heads of terms as included within exempt Appendix 5. This report also seeks authority to spend the £1.505m awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. 

(Please note that Appendices 5 and 6 to this report are designated as exempt under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3))

The Director of City Development submitted a report on the Lower Kirkgate Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) and which sought approval to enter into an agreement with the owner of First White Cloth Hall on the basis of the heads of terms, as detailed within exempt appendix 5 to the submitted report. In addition, the report also sought authority to spend the £1,505,000 which had been awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The Board welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report, especially when considering the regeneration and retail development which was taking place in that part of the city centre.

Following consideration of appendices 5 and 6 to the submitted report, 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 authority be given for the Council to enter into an agreement with the owner of the First White Cloth Hall on the basis outlined within the heads of terms as detailed in exempt appendix 5 to the submitted report;

(b)  That authority be delegated to the Director of City Development in order to settle the final terms of that agreement;

(c)  That authority be given to spend £1,505,000 on the works as outlined within the submitted report;

(d)  That it be noted that the Programme Manager (Major Projects) will be responsible for the implementation of such matters;

(e)  That the feasibility timescales as outlined within appendix 3 to the submitted report be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to exchange the freehold ownerships of a Council property, 265 Roundhay Road, with a property owned by LCCU, 269 Roundhay Road at a ’less than best’ consideration.

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

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to exchange the freehold ownerships of a Council property, 265 Roundhay Road, with a property owned by Leeds City Credit Union (LCCU), 269 Roundhay Road at a ’less than best’ consideration on the terms outlined within exempt appendix 1.

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 authority be given to discuss and explore alternative arrangements for exchange of the Council’s ownership of 265 Roundhay Road with the LCCU ownership of 269 Roundhay Road, and that delegated authority be given to the Director of City Development in order to approve any negotiated terms;

(b)  That in the event of the exchange being on a ‘less than best’ basis, authority be delegated to the Director of City Development in order to approve the terms as outlined within the exempt appendix to the submitted report;

(c)  That it be noted that the Head of Property Services will be responsible for implementation with planned completion by end of September 2014;

(d)  That following acquisition of 269 Roundhay Road, this property be declared surplus to the Council’s requirements and marketed for sale on the open market by way of inviting informal offers with terms to be approved by the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer, or by way of public auction with the reserve price to be approved by the Head of Property Services.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing an update on the progress towards delivering a Park & Ride site in Aire Valley and the Aire Valley Enterprise Zone Building Foundations for Growth (BFG) grant funded schemes. The report also seeks approval to fund the purchase of the park and ride site if necessary.

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

Further to Minute No. 205, 5^th March 2014, the Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the progress towards delivering a Park and Ride site in Aire Valley and also on the Aire Valley Enterprise Zone Building Foundations for Growth (BFG) grant funded schemes. In addition, the report also sought approval to fund the purchase of the park and ride site if necessary.

The Board supported the proposals detailed within the submitted report and welcomed the proposal for further park and ride provision in the city, following the recent opening of the Elland Road site. It was highlighted that in addition to servicing the Enterprise Zone, an Aire Valley park and ride facility would also benefit those travelling into the city centre.

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 provisionally agreed heads of terms with Aire Valley Land Ltd for the Council’s purchase of a 10 acre remediated site for a 1000 space Park & Ride facility, be approved.

(b)  That if necessary, approval be given to the Council funding the acquisition of the park and ride site, as set out in the exempt appendix A of the submitted report and that it be noted that such approval constitutes an ‘authority to spend’.

(c)  That the injection of funds into the capital programme for the acquisition be approved.

(d)  That the Director of City Development in consultation with the Leader, the Executive Member for Transport and the Economy, the Deputy Chief Executive and the City Solicitor, be authorised to use his delegated powers to agree final terms and enter into all necessary documents for the acquisition of the site.

(e)  That the resolutions, as detailed within this minute be deemed exempt from call in.

(f)   That the following 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 the 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 as it was determined that a delay in completing all the necessary legal documentation as soon as practically possible would have an adverse impact upon achieving the programme of works to enable delivery within the specified time frame).

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services presenting the annual reports of the fostering and adoption services (as detailed in Appendix 1 and 2) as required by the National Minimum Standards 2011. In addition, the report also seeks approval of the revised statements of purpose for Leeds City Council’s Fostering and Adoption Services. The Statement of Purpose for each service is attached at appendix 3 and appendix 4 respectively.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting the annual reports of the fostering and adoption services, in line with the requirements of the National Minimum Standards 2011. In addition, the report also sought approval of the revised statements of purpose for Leeds City Council’s Fostering and Adoption Services, which were appended to the submitted report.

In presenting the report, the Executive Member for Children’s Services paid tribute to those organisations from all sectors which had helped to improve fostering and adoption services in Leeds. In addition, the Board was advised that the number of children and young people in care in Leeds had decreased to 1,299, whilst the Board also received an update on the number of carers which the local authority had recruited to date, together with details on the methods which had been used to achieve such positive results.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Statements of Purpose for both the Fostering and Adoption Services for Leeds City Council be approved.

(b)  That the annual fostering and adoption reports be noted and that the work of the adoption and fostering service continue to be supported in order to ensure that children receive the best possible support.

(c)  That it be noted that the responsible officer is the Head of Looked After Children.

To consider the 4-part report of the Director of Children’s Services presenting the outcomes from the consultation undertaken in respect of several proposals to increase school provision. Parts A to D of the report provide detailed information together with specific recommendations regarding each proposal.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a 4-part report presenting the outcomes arising from the consultation exercise undertaken in respect of several proposals to increase school provision. Parts A to D of the submitted report provided detailed information together with specific recommendations regarding each proposal.

Support for the proposals detailed within the submitted report was received. With regard to the proposals within Calverley and Farsley Ward it was requested that further work be undertaken into how the two local parks could be more effectively utilised as playing fields and outdoor space for those schools.

RESOLVED –

Part A Guiseley

(a)  That the outcome of the consultation which took place in Guiseley between 17 March and 11 April 2014 be acknowledged;

(b)  That it be acknowledged that the governing bodies of St Oswald Church of England Junior School and Guiseley Infant School are to pursue the publication of statutory notices to convert both schools to 2 forms of entry primary schools, each with an admission number of 60 into reception class each year, with effect from September 2015;

(c)   That it be noted that further capital spend on the feasibility works for this project will be committed to develop an outline scheme.

Part B Expansion proposals for Farsley Westroyd Infant School and Farsley Springbank Junior School

(a)  That changes to Farsley Westroyd Infant School, increasing its capacity from 180 pupils to 210 pupils and raising the upper age limit from 7 to 11, therefore creating a primary school, with effect from September 2015, be approved;

(b)   That changes to Farsley Springbank Junior School, increasing its capacity from 240 to 420 and lowering the lower age limit from 7 to 4, therefore creating a primary school, with effect from September 2015, be approved.

Part C Expansion proposal for Broadgate Primary School, Horsforth

(a)  That the expansion of Broadgate 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 2015, be approved.

Part D Specialist provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School

(a)  That the proposal to open a specialist provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School for pupils who are deaf and hearing impaired from September 2014, be approved;

(b)  That it be noted that the responsible officer for implementation is the Capacity Planning and Sufficiency Lead.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services presenting information and seeking the necessary ‘authority to spend’ in respect of proposals to expand East Ardsley Primary School and Asquith Primary School.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting information and seeking the necessary ‘authority to spend’ in respect of proposals to expand East Ardsley Primary School and Asquith Primary School.

Support for the proposals detailed within the submitted report was received.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That expenditure of £884,205 from capital scheme number 16585/ETA/PH3 be authorised, and that the acceptance of variation orders provided by the 10 Schools SPV for costs associated with the construction of the phase III accommodation at East Ardsley Primary School, be approved;

(b)  That expenditure of £2,895,100 from capital scheme number 16585/ASQ/000 be authorised and that the acceptance of variation orders provided by the 10 Primaries SPV for costs associated with the construction of the works at Asquith Primary School, be approved;

(c)  That the programme dates as identified in section 4.2 of the submitted report in relation to the implementation of these resolutions be noted;

(d)  That it be noted that the officer responsible for implementation of such matters is the Project Manager, PPPU;

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services providing background information and detail in respect of the Basic Need schemes to expand the North East SILC and South SILC. In addition, the report seeks authority to approve expenditure in order to enable the respective expansion of the North East SILC and also the South SILC. 

Further to Minute No. 216, 5^th March 2014, the Director of Children’s Services submitted a report providing background information and detail in respect of the Basic Need schemes to expand the North East Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC) and the South SILC, whilst the report also sought the necessary authority to approve expenditure for the proposed expansions.

A verbal update was provided by the Council’s Chief Procurement Officer who drew the Board’s attention to omissions in the contractor’s bid which resulted in an increase in the total funding required for the proposals for the North East SILC. Members were requested to approve a revised cost of £10,329,100. Members received details on the reasons for the discrepancy and considered the most appropriate way to proceed.

In conclusion and in order to minimise the risk of any such issues happening again, it was requested that the Council’s existing procedures around the scrutiny of submitted tenders be reviewed, with a further report on the review’s findings and proposed next steps being submitted to the Board in due course for Members’ consideration. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That expenditure of £10,329,100 from capital scheme number 16981/NES/000 to enable the construction work associated with the expansion to the North East SILC be authorised, and that expenditure of £4,071,100 from capital scheme number 16981/SLS/000 to enable the construction work associated with the expansion to the South SILC also be authorised.

(b)  That the programme dates identified in section 4.0 of the submitted report regarding the implementation of this decision be noted, together with the fact that the final delivery date for total completion of this scheme is September 2015.

(c)  That it be noted that the Project Manager, PPPU is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

(d)  That the Council’s procedures around the scrutiny of submitted tenders be reviewed, with a further report on the review’s findings and proposed next steps being submitted to the Board in due course for Members’ consideration.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services seeking authority for programme expenditure and Authority to Spend to undertake the works required to provide accommodation to support a 3FE primary school and associated external facilities.

Further to Minute No. 227, 24^th April 2013, the Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting background information and detail regarding a Basic Need scheme to expand Little London Primary School. In addition, the report also sought authority to incur the related capital expenditure to undertake the works required to provide accommodation to support a 3 Form Entry primary school and associated external facilities.

Members welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report and the investment which was being utilised to facilitate such regeneration.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That expenditure of £6,434,600 from capital scheme number 16585/LIT/000 to enable the construction of the expansion to Little London Primary School be authorised.

(b)  That the link between this submitted report and the joint report of the Director of Environment and Housing and Director of City Development (entitled: Design & Cost Report for Little London Community Hub) found elsewhere on the agenda be noted, and that support be given to the proposal for the school expansion, community centre and Neighbourhood Housing Office to form part of the same procurement and construction contract.

(c)  That the programme dates as identified in section 4.0 of the submitted report regarding the implementation of this decision be noted, together with the fact that the final delivery date for total completion of this scheme is September 2015.

(d)   That it be noted that the Project Manager, PPPU is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Director of Environment and Housing seeking authority to incur capital expenditure for the construction and re-provision of the community centre and Neighbourhood Housing Office in Little London, forming part of the Little London Community Hub redevelopment. The report sets out the key components of the scheme which includes expansion to the Little London Community Primary School, a new build community centre and Neighbourhood Housing Office and a new retail development. Additionally, the report provides an update on the Little London Housing PFI project and how this complements the regeneration proposed as part of the Little London Community Hub development

Further to Minute No. 46, 17^th July 2013, the Director of City Development and the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a joint report which sought authority to incur capital expenditure for the construction and re-provision of the community centre and Neighbourhood Housing Office in Little London, which formed part of the Little London Community Hub redevelopment. In addition, the report set out the key components of the scheme which included expansion to the Little London Community Primary School, a new build community centre and Neighbourhood Housing Office, together with a new retail development. Additionally, the report also provided an update on the Little London Housing PFI project and how this complemented the regeneration proposed as part of the Little London Community Hub development.

As with Minute No. 17, (Design and Cost Report for Little London Primary School Basic Need Project) the Board welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report together with the investment which was being utilised to facilitate such regeneration, and highlighted the impact that this initiative would have on the local community.

RESOLVED –

(a)   That the progress made to commence regeneration in Little London and also to revise proposals for the Little London Community Hub be noted and supported;

(b)   That the link between this submitted report and that of the Director of Children’s Services (entitled: Design & Cost Report for Little London Primary School Basic Need Project) found elsewhere on the agenda for the expansion of Little London Community Primary School be noted, and that support be given to the proposal that the school expansion, Neighbourhood Housing Office and community centre form part of the same procurement and construction contract, as set out in paragraphs 3.26 and 3.27 of the submitted report;

(c)   That it be noted that the costs identified in the submitted report are based on RIBA Stage D - detailed design;

(d)   That the Director of City Development be authorised to inject and incur expenditure of £677,700 from the General Fund capital scheme 32140/000/000 in order to deliver a new community centre forming part of the Little London Community Hub, with an anticipated contract award in July and start on-site date of July/August 2014, as set out in paragraph 3.29 of the submitted report;

(e)   That it be noted that scheme 32036/CJ3/000 to deliver a new Neighbourhood Housing Office forming part of the Little London Community Hub at £264,700 is funded within the overall Housing Leeds refurbishment programme, as approved by Executive Board in February 2014, and that it will be delivered by the Director of Environment and Housing, with an anticipated contract award in July and a start on-site date of July/August 2014, as set out in paragraph 3.29 of the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to publish the revised Policies Minerals 13 and 14 of the Natural Resources and Waste Local Plan and supporting text for the purposes of a six week consultation period and subject to there being no new significant issues raised, approval is sought to make a recommendation that Full Council approve the submission of the revised policies to the Secretary of State for independent examination.

Further to Minute No. 154, 9^th January 2013, the Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to publish the revised Policies Minerals 13 and 14 of the Natural Resources and Waste Local Plan together with supporting text for the purposes of a six week consultation period. Subject to there being no new significant issues raised, approval was also sought to make a recommendation to Full Council that it approves the submission of the revised policies to the Secretary of State for independent examination.

RESOLVED –

(a)   That the revised Policies Minerals 13 and 14 of the Natural Resources and Waste Local Plan and supporting text be published for the purposes of a six week consultation period, and that the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to consider any representations received.

(b)   That it be noted that the Head of Forward Planning and Implementation is responsible for these matters and that it also be noted that the consultation exercise will take place in July - August 2014.

(c)   That subject to there being no new significant issues raised, it be recommended that Full Council approve the submission of the revised

policies to the Secretary of State for the purposes of independent examination.

(d)   That if significant new issues are raised through the consultation process, or by Scrutiny Board members, the Chief Planning Officer, in consultation with the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning & Personnel be authorised to review the proposals and to take such additional steps as are necessary before seeking approval from Council for submission.

(The Council’s Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rules state that the power to Call In decisions does not extend to those made in accordance with Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules (B&PFPRs). As the resolutions relating to this minute (above) were being made in accordance with the Council’s B&PFPR’s, such matters were not eligible for Call In) 

To consider the joint report of the Director of Environment and Housing and the Director of City Development providing an update on the Council Housing Growth Programme and the sites that have been identified for development. The report also provides details of the sites where a bid has been submitted to the HCA for grant funding, details of the rental strategy to be adopted, as new properties developed through grant funding from the HCA will need to be charged as affordable rents, which is 80% of market rent levels. Finally, the report provides an update on the work undertaken to develop a ‘Leeds Standard’ which will include design approaches to reduce running costs by providing a more energy efficient product and information on the proposed ‘Lettings Policy’ for the new build Council properties. 

(Please note that Appendix 1 to this report are designated as exempt under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3))

Further to Minute No. 45, 17^th July 2013, the Director of Environment and Housing and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report providing an update on the Council Housing Growth Programme and the sites that had been identified for development. In addition, the report also provided details of the sites where a bid had been submitted to the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) for grant funding, together with details of the rental strategy to be adopted. Finally, the report provided an update on the work undertaken to develop a standard of finish which would include design approaches aimed at reducing running costs by providing a more energy efficient product and also information on the proposed ‘Lettings Policy’ for the new build Council properties.

By way of an introduction to the submitted report, the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Personnel emphasised the scale and ambitious nature of the programme. In addition, the Board noted that Scrutiny Board (Housing and Regeneration) was scheduled to consider the Council’s Lettings Policy as part of its work programme.

In considering the report, Members discussed the following:-

·  The need to ensure that neighbourhoods were ‘liveable’ and sustainable;

·  The importance of design quality and energy efficiency standards which were being developed as part of the programme;

·  The need to demonstrate to the HCA that the Local Authority was able to successfully deliver such an ambitious programme;

·  The accommodation needs which needed to be addressed in the outer areas of the city, as well as those in the inner areas;

·  The vital importance of housing provision for the elderly across the city.

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 the progress on the development of the Council Housing Growth

Programme be noted;

(b)  That the development of a new rental strategy for new build Council properties which are funded through the Homes and Communities Agency’s Affordable Homes Programme, be agreed;

(c)  That the progress made against the development of a new approach to the standard of the final product, as it relates to the development of new council housing, be noted;

(d)   That a new approach for the allocations of new build Council homes be agreed, and that approval be given for the Director of Environment and Housing to approve local lettings policies;

(e)  That the further injection of £20,194,000 into the Council Housing Growth Programme from the HRA, with authority to spend of £30,120,000 per the table at paragraph 6.7 of the submitted report be approved, and that £10,194,000 of the new injection be utilised from reserves and additional available ‘Right To Buy’ (RTB) receipts and £10,000,000 from unsupported borrowing.

(f)  That responsibility for the delivery of the resolutions above be delegated to the Director of Environment and Housing.

(g)   Thata further report be submitted to Executive Board  ...  view the full minutes text for item 20.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing providing an update on the outcome of the consultation with West Yorkshire Police on the future deployment of PCSOs. In addition, the report provides a summary of the new ways of working being piloted between Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Police in priority services areas.

Further to Minute No 209, 5^th March 2014, the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing an update on the outcome of the discussions between West Yorkshire Police, Elected Members and Senior Council Officers on the allocation of Police Community Service Officers (PCSOs) for the period up to 31^st March 2016. In addition, the report also provided a summary of the new ways of working being piloted between Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Police in priority services areas including Domestic Noise Nuisance and Street Begging, and highlighted the direction of travel in relation to the Environmental agenda.

The Board received an overview of the report from Superintendent Sam Miller, who also updated the Board on the joint working initiatives which continued between the Council and West Yorkshire Police.

Members welcomed the submitted report, paid tribute to the work of the PCSO’s and highlighted the vital importance of their visible presence within communities.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That it be noted that the allocation of PCSO’s is to remain at 5 per Ward, as per the current arrangement across the City for Leeds City Council funded officers.

(b)  That with regard to additional PCSO’s being funded by West Yorkshire Police, support be given to such officers being allocated on a demand based profile.

(c)  That the new areas of partnership work being led by the Chief Officer for Community Safety, where different approaches, and joint working arrangements are being piloted to support the delivery of Council and Police priorities, be noted.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development, the Director of Public Health and the Director of Children’s Services outlining the basis for building a lasting legacy for cycling from the Tour de France and illustrates work that is already underway.

Further to Minute No. 232, 2^nd April 2014, the Director of City Development, the Director of Public Health and the Director of Children’s Services submitted a joint report outlining the basis for building a lasting cycling legacy from the Tour de France and highlighted the work that was already being progressed in this area.

It was highlighted that a sustainable and meaningful legacy would involve all areas of the Council together with other sectors, and it was acknowledged that further reports would be submitted to the Board in due course as work on the lasting legacy of the Tour de France continued.

Members noted the positive impact that the Tour was already having on cycling participation levels across the city and highlighted the need to ensure that such momentum was not lost.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the five key objectives of the Cycle Yorkshire strategy, as detailed at section 3.1.1 of the submitted report be endorsed;

(b)  That the legacy commitments, as described at Table 1 of the submitted report be supported;

(c)   That the establishment and resourcing of a ‘Cycling Starts Here’

Programme Board to include city partners, with Leeds City Council taking the strategic lead, be agreed;

(d)   That the range of directorates and external partners who have a direct

and indirect interest be noted;

(e)   That the development of a holistic Cycling Strategy for Leeds be supported;

(f)   That the Director of City Development develop plans to resource the transformation of cycling in Leeds through the future budget setting

process.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services providing an update on the progress made towards becoming an Age Friendly City and Dementia Friendly, together with the action being taken to reduce loneliness and social isolation amongst older people.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report highlighting the key issues arising from establishing Leeds as an Age Friendly City and which focussed upon the expectations of the World Health Organisation’s ‘Global Network’ initiative. Specifically, the submitted report focussed upon tackling loneliness and social isolation amongst older people and on the work being undertaken in respect of ‘Dementia Friendly Leeds’. Finally, the report identified areas for further development and highlighted the plans in place to help Leeds become the Best City in which to live, and especially to grow older. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the current ongoing work, as outlined within the submitted report, be noted and endorsed;

(b)  That directorates and partners be called upon to assess themselves against the World Health Organisation’s ‘Global Network of Age Friendly Cities Framework’;

(c)  That the opportunities outlined in the submitted report for further work in making Leeds an Age Friendly and Dementia Friendly city, which is working to tackle loneliness and social isolation in older people, be encouraged;

(d)  That the Executive’s engagement with Dementia Friendly Leeds at a community level be endorsed;

(e)  That the proposal for Executive Members to become Dementia Friends and Champions be endorsed and that all local authority staff be encouraged to fulfil such roles also.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive providing the Council’s financial outturn position for 2013/14 for both revenue and capital, whilst also including details regarding Housing Revenue Account and spending on schools. In addition, the report also highlights the position regarding other key financial health indicators including Council Tax and NNDR collection statistics, sundry income, reserves and the prompt payment of creditors. 

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report presenting the Council’s financial outturn position for 2013/2014 for both revenue and capital elements,

whilst also outlining details regarding Housing Revenue Account and spending on schools. In addition, the report also highlighted the latest position regarding other key financial health indicators including Council Tax and NNDR collection statistics, sundry income, reserves and the prompt payment of creditors.

With regard to proposals detailed within the report regarding the creation of earmarked reserves, specifically in respect off the Leeds Grand Theatre, Members welcomed that a dedicated report was scheduled to be submitted to the 16^th July 2014 Board meeting. It was also requested that both Councillors A Carter and Golton received respective briefings on the current position regarding Leeds Grand Theatre.

In conclusion, the Chair paid tribute to all officers concerned for their continued efforts which had led to the Council’s final outturn position for the 2013/14 financial year.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the outturn position as detailed within the submitted report be noted, and that the creation of earmarked reserves as detailed in paragraphs 3.8 and 5.5 be agreed, with the release of such earmarked reserves being delegated to the Deputy Chief Executive;

(b)  That a virement in 2014/15 from directorate superannuation budgets to general fund reserves, as detailed in paragraph 5.4 of the submitted report, be agreed;

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer Financial Services will be responsible for the implementation of the resolutions detailed above, following the “call in” period.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive seeking approval to proposed updates to the objectives and priorities contained within the Best Council Plan 2013/17.

Further to Minute No. 200, 5^th March 2014, the Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report which sought approval to the proposed updates to the objectives and priorities contained within the Best Council Plan 2013/17.

On 1^st July 2013, when approving the new strategic Best Council Plan, Council also provided Executive Board with the authority to make in-year amendments to the Plan when required.

The Chief Executive advised that the proposed refresh of the Plan’s objectives and priorities would help to ensure that it continued to reflect the current context in which the Council operated and also that it continued to have a genuine impact on the organisation.

The importance of cross-departmental working as an effective means of driving the Plan’s objectives forward was highlighted.

Members welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report, together with the succinct, clear and user friendly format of the Plan.

RESOLVED –

(a)   That the updated ‘Best Council Plan 2013/17’, which sets out the authority’s six strategic objectives and priorities be approved;

(b)   That the next steps which are outlined in the submitted report to further revise the Council’s priorities in order to feed into the next Best Council Plan in time for the start of the 2015/16 financial year, be noted;

(c)   That it be noted that the Deputy Chief Executive will be responsible for the implementation of the next steps.

(The Council’s Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rules state that the power to Call In decisions does not extend to those made in accordance with Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules (B&PFPRs). As the resolutions relating to this minute (above) were being made in accordance with the Council’s B&PFPR’s, such matters were not eligible for Call In) 

DATE OF PUBLICATION:    FRIDAY, 27^TH JUNE 2014

LASTE DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  FRIDAY, 4^TH JULY 2014 AT 5.00 P.M.

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00noon on Monday, 7^th July 2014)