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, ‘South Bank Regeneration’, referred to in Minute No. 81 is designated as exempt from publication 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 submitted appendix relates to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). It is considered that the public interest in maintaining the content of appendix 1 as exempt outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

(b)  Appendix 4 to the report entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report for the Acquisition of Tribeca House, Deacon House and Unit 2 Killingbeck Court for Council Accommodation’, referred to in Minute No. 87 is designated as exempt from publication in accordance with paragraph 10.4(3) of Schedule 12A(3) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that the information within the appendix relates to the financial or business affairs of a particular of a particular person and the Council.

This information is not publicly available from the statutory registers of information kept in respect of certain companies and charities. It is considered that since this information relates to a financial offer that the Council has submitted to purchase the property in a one to one negotiation it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this point in time. Also it is considered that the release of such information would or would be likely to prejudice the Council’s commercial interests in relation to other similar transactions in that prospective purchasers of other similar properties would have access to information about the nature and level of consideration which may prove acceptable to the Council. It is considered that whilst there may be a public interest in disclosure, much of this information will be publicly available from the Land Registry following completion of this transaction and consequently the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing this information at this point in time.

There were no late items as such, however, prior to the meeting, Board Members were provided with correspondence for their consideration which had been received from interested parties in respect of agenda item 7 entitled, ‘South Bank Regeneration’ (Minute No. 81 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, ‘Capital Programme Quarter 2 Update 2015-19’, Councillor Yeadon drew the Board’s attention to her position on the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Board of Management (Minute No.82 refers); and

·  In relation to the agenda item entitled, ‘Learning Disability Day Service Modernisation’, Councillor Golton drew the Board’s attention to his position as Board Member of Aspire Community Benefit Society Limited (Minute No. 90 refers).

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 21^st October 2015

RESOLVED - That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 21^st October 2015 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing providing an update on the Council’s recycling strategy and which seeks approval to revise the Council’s household waste recycling targets in the light of current financial pressures and market related factors, and to bring them in line with current EU and national targets. In addition, the report also sets out a strategy for ensuring a continued improvement in recycling performance through maximising existing services and infrastructure and also by increasing resident participation.

Further to Minute No. 144, 14^th December 2011, the Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing an update on the Council’s recycling strategy and which sought approval to revise the Council’s household waste recycling targets in the light of current financial pressures and market related factors, and to bring them in line with current EU and national targets. In addition, the report also set out a strategy for ensuring a continued improvement in recycling performance through maximising existing services and infrastructure and also by increasing resident participation.

Members discussed the Council’s current policy by which approximately 80% of households received the alternate weekly recycling collection service and the criteria used to identify which areas received this service. The Board also considered how the proposed revisions to the recycling targets compared to the performance of other Core Cities, together with the EU and national target.

Discussion was also had on the innovative approaches currently being taken to improve recycling rates, and what further initiatives could be potentially developed, especially in those areas which currently did not receive alternate weekly collections, and it was requested that a further report on such matters be submitted to a future Executive Board.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report and the current context in relation to recycling performance, be noted;

(b)  That a revised target to recycle 50% of household waste by 2020 be approved, with the longer-term target to exceed 60% remaining unchanged;

(c)  That the medium-term strategy, as outlined in section 3.2 of the submitted report be approved, which will focus upon maximising existing capacity and infrastructure, and be supported by an effective programme of communications, engagement, enforcement and service improvement, but with the acknowledgement that there will be a requirement for residents to participate fully if the revised target is to be achieved; 

(d)  That approval be given to the expansion of recycling collections provision on an ‘opt in’ basis (in accordance with the Ash Road, Headingley pilot as outlined in 3.2.21 of the submitted report) in areas of the city where there is persistently poor recycling participation;

(e)  That approval be given to the removal of excess bins from the kerbside where households have more than the number for which they are eligible, as set out within the policy agreed by Executive Board in January 2014;

(f)  That a further report be submitted to a future Executive Board which provides information on the innovative approaches and bespoke solutions which have been and could potentially be undertaken across the city, with the aim of further improving recycling rates in Leeds.

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

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which seeks approval for the Council’s support to a major inward investment opportunity for the city. Specifically this is to support Burberry’s initial proposals to relocate their UK manufacturing operations to Leeds South Bank. The report also sets out the policy principles by which the Council would work with Burberry to secure the restoration and long term sustainable use of Temple Works as part of further plans for future phases of development.

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

Further to Minute No. 19, 15^th July 2015, the Director of City Development submitted a report which sought the Council’s support for a major inward investment opportunity for the city. Specifically, this was to support Burberry’s initial proposals to relocate their UK manufacturing operations to Leeds South Bank. In addition, the report also set out the policy principles by which the Council would work with Burberry in order to secure the restoration and long term sustainable use of Temple Works as part of further plans for future phases of development.

Prior to the meeting, Board Members had been provided with correspondence which had been received from interested parties regarding the submitted report. In considering this, Members were notified of a specific proposal within the correspondence which related to the suggested expansion of the Holbeck Urban Village Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). 

The Board welcomed the investment into the South Bank by Burberry and highlighted the significance of the company’s proposals, both in economic terms and with regard to the regeneration opportunities it presented.

With regard to consultation, it was highlighted that all relevant parties would be consulted as part of the proposed development of a Planning Guidance document in respect of the Temple Works area.

Responding to specific enquiries, assurances were provided that appropriate housing provision in the South Bank area still remained a priority, whilst the Board was also informed of the actions being taken to work with Burberry and Leeds City Region (LCR) partners in order to support those businesses and organisations within the LCR affected by the proposals. 

In conclusion, it was requested that the Board continue to be updated on the development of the matters arising within the submitted report.

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 – That the following be agreed:-

(a)  The Council’s support for Burberry’s proposals to relocate a significant part of its UK manufacturing operations to Leeds South Bank, as detailed within the submitted report;

(b)  The Council’s support for Burberry’s initial proposals to restore Temple Works and land neighbouring Temple Works as part of future phases of development;

(c)  The policy principles, as set out in section 5 of the submitted report, and the commercial terms, as detailed within exempt appendix 1, as a basis by which the Council will seek to help to secure the delivery of this inward investment opportunity, and produce legal documents for agreement with Burberry;

(d)  That the Director of City Development, in accordance with resolutions a), b) and c) above:

a.  produces and negotiates legal agreements with Burberry for the disposal of Council assets at Bath Road, Sweet Street and Leodis Court, and where necessary develops a vacant possession strategy for these assets.

b.  produces and negotiates a grant agreement with Burberry setting out the terms by which the Council will provide  ...  view the full minutes text for item 81.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive providing an update on the Capital Programme position as at period 6, the end of September 2015.  The report includes appendices on the Capital Programme funding statement at period 6, an Annual Programmes statement, a Major Programmes and other schemes statement, together with the latest Capital Receipts Incentive Scheme injection. In addition, the report also includes an analysis of the impact any changes in capital resources may have on the cost of borrowing within the revenue budget as a key control of capital investment, and seeks some specific approvals in relation to funding injections.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report providing an update on the Council’s Capital Programme position as at period 6, the end of September 2015. The report included appendices on the Capital Programme funding statement at period 6, an Annual Programmes statement, a Major Programmes and other schemes statement, together with the latest Capital Receipts Incentive Scheme injection. In addition, the report also included an analysis of the impact any changes in capital resources may have on the cost of borrowing within the revenue budget as a key control of capital investment, and sought some specific approvals in relation to funding injections.

Responding to a specific enquiry, it was confirmed that the capital expenditure proposals detailed within the Future for Social and Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) Education Provision report, which was found elsewhere on the Board’s agenda, were not included within the submitted report. However, if such proposals were approved by the Board, it was noted that such matters would be included within a future report.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the latest position, as at period 6 on the General Fund and HRA capital programmes, be noted;

(b)  That the net increase in the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme 2015-2019 of £63.1m since Quarter 1 be noted, and that it also be noted that the majority of these injections £40.15m relate to the inclusion of annual programmes in 2018-19, as shown in Appendix B to the submitted report;

(c)  That it be noted that the borrowing required to fund the Capital Programme in 2015-16 has reduced by a further £3.3m since the Quarter 1 update. That it also be noted that the Capital Programme remains affordable within the approved debt budget for 2015-16, and that further work is underway through regular capital programme reviews to ensure that future debt costs are maintained within the overall Medium Term Financial strategy;

(d)  That the following injections into the capital programme be approved:-

(i)  £40.15m, to reflect the roll forward of annual programmes into 2018-19, as set out in Appendix B to the submitted report;

(ii)  £1.5m for works to adopt 32 highways not included within the Little London Beeston Hill and Holbeck PFI scheme;

(iii)  £500.0k for bridges structures to address priority works within the 2016-17 programme;

(iv)  £221.0k for a contribution towards proposed disabled access works to the Grand Theatre in 2015-16;

(v)  £207.2k in relation to Capital Receipts to be utilised by Ward Councillors under the Capital Receipts Incentive Scheme (CRIS), as detailed at Appendix D to the submitted report.

(e)  That it be noted that the above resolutions to inject funding will be implemented by the Chief Officer (Financial Services). 

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive which provides information on the drivers for publishing Council, non-personally sensitive data and also to recommend a particular strategic and policy approach which would facilitate the publication of such data. In addition, the report provides an update on the progress and achievements made in this area to date.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report which provided information on the drivers for publishing Council, non-personally sensitive data and recommended a particular strategic and policy approach which would facilitate the publication of such data. In addition, the report also provided an update on the progress and achievements made in this area to date.

Members welcomed the submitted report and highlighted the cutting edge work that was being undertaken in this field across the city’s public and private sectors. The Board noted the high profile recognition which Leeds had received as a result of such work and highlighted the need for the significant progress made in this area to continue and be built upon.

Responding to an enquiry, the Board was provided with an update on the work of the Open Data Academy.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to the Council adopting an ‘open by default’ approach towards proactively publishing all of its non-personal datasets;

(b)  That the ‘Leeds: The Data City’ manifesto, as detailed at Appendix 1 to the submitted report, be endorsed as the direction of travel for the Council and one which will be promoted across the city;

(c)  That approval be given to the setting of targets for all services to publish open data on Leeds Data Mill;

(d)  That support be given to the Council working across all sectors in order to get them to open their data for the benefit of the city as a whole.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive on the Council’s projected financial health after six months of the 2015/16 financial year.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report on the Council’s projected financial health after six months of the 2015/16 financial year.

With regard to Children’s Services and the issue of external placements, it was requested that further discussions be held with Group Leaders on this matter, in order to enable greater cross-party working.

Furthermore, the Board received an update on the current position regarding the in-year reduction in the 2015/16 Public Health grant funding.

RESOLVED – That the projected financial position of the Authorityfor 2015/16, be noted.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive presenting a review and update of the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy for the period 2015/16.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report presenting a review and update of the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy for the period 2015/16.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the update on the Council’s Treasury Management borrowing and investment strategy for 2015/16, be noted;

(b)  That the changes to investment criteria methodology, as outlined in paragraph 3.4 of the submitted report, be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides an overview of the Council’s positive and proactive enabling activity to progress regeneration in the urban areas of East Leeds, focusing upon the role of new housing developments in providing the investment required to deliver sustainable neighbourhood improvements. In addition, the report sets out the principles and primary proposals within the Neighbourhood Framework for Killingbeck and Seacroft and seeks approval to this document. The report also invites the Board to note the intention to accept a Local Growth Fund loan from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, to be injected into the capital programme in order to support the Brownfield Land Programme.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided an overview of the Council’s positive and proactive enabling activity to progress regeneration in the urban areas of East Leeds, which focussed upon the role of new housing developments in providing the investment required to deliver sustainable neighbourhood improvements. In addition, the report also set out the principles and primary proposals within the Neighbourhood Framework for Killingbeck and Seacroft and sought approval of this document. Furthermore, the report also invited the Board to note the intention to accept a Local Growth Fund loan from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, to be injected into the Capital Programme in order to support the Brownfield Land Programme.

In considering this report, emphasis was placed upon the importance of the neighbourhood planning process being equally accessible to all communities, regardless of size and location.

In welcoming the contents of the submitted report, a Member highlighted the need for such matters to now be progressed as swiftly as possible.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the progress made in bringing forward new housing development in East Leeds, be noted;

(b)  That it be noted that the Council has secured a Local Growth Fund loan to support the development of brownfield sites in East Leeds and also that the Deputy Chief Executive can approve that the Council enters into the loan agreement under existing delegations;

(c)  That the preparation of the Killingbeck and Seacroft Neighbourhood Framework be noted;

(d)  That the development principles and approach included within the framework, as summarised within paragraphs 3.23 - 3.40 of the submitted report, be agreed;

(e)  That approval be given for the Director of City Development to make future changes to the Framework in order to ensure consistency with the Site Allocations Plan upon its adoption.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development presenting the updated position on work to generate revenue savings from the Council’s asset portfolio, through the Asset Review Programme which forms part of the Council’s Asset Management Plan 2014-17. In addition, the report seeks approval to the acquisition of three properties to achieve revenue savings and also to support the delivery of three key corporate programmes: Asset Review, Integrated Health & Social Care and Community Hubs.

(Appendix 4 to this 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 presenting the updated position on work to generate revenue savings from the Council’s asset portfolio, through the Asset Review Programme which formed part of the Council’s Asset Management Plan 2014-17. In addition, the report also sought approval to the acquisition of three properties to achieve revenue savings and also to support the delivery of three key corporate programmes: Asset Review, Integrated Health & Social Care and Community Hubs.

Following the consideration of Appendix 4 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 contents of the submitted report, specifically the progress made to deliver revenue savings through asset rationalisation, be noted;

(b)  That the acquisition of Tribeca House, on the terms identified in exempt Appendix 4 to the submitted report, be approved;

(c)  That the acquisition of the long lease interest in Deacon House, on the terms identified in exempt Appendix 4 to the submitted report, be approved, which will provide the Council with the unencumbered freehold interest in the site;

(d)  That the acquisition of Unit 2, Killingbeck Court, on the terms identified in exempt Appendix 4 to the submitted report, be approved;

(e)  That the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development to agree the final detailed terms for the acquisitions;

(f)  That the injection into the Capital Programme of the sums (as identified in exempt Appendix 4 to the submitted report), be approved and that authority also be given to spend the monies as required;

(g)  That the ring fencing of the capital receipt from the sale of the Seacroft Library site be approved in order to contribute towards the acquisition cost of Deacon House;

(h)  That it be noted that the Head of Asset Management is responsible for the implementation of the Asset Review Programme and the proposed acquisitions.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development presenting the response to a White Paper Motion submitted to Council and which provides details on the progress made in respect of the development of cycling facilities in Leeds, with reference to how the Council was working collaboratively with its partners in order to ensure the success of world class sporting events in the city continues to be built upon.

The Director of City Development submitted a report presenting the response to a White Paper Motion considered by Council on 8^th July 2015 and which provided details on the progress made in respect of the development of cycling facilities in Leeds and the aim of encouraging more people to take up cycling, with reference to how the Council was working collaboratively with its partners in order to ensure that the successes of world class sporting events which had been held in the city continued to be built upon.

Responding to a Member’s enquiries, the Board was advised of the criteria used to identify the 3 locations for the city’s cycling hubs and also received an update on the factors which would need to be taken into consideration in respect of any proposals to develop an outdoor velodrome in the future.  Furthermore, responding to a specific question regarding the route of the north-south cycle superhighway, officers undertook to provide the Member in question with details of the route, together with a further briefing, if required. 

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That a report regarding the ‘Cycling Starts Here’ strategy be submitted to a future meeting of Executive Board.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Director of Adult Social Services providing an approach to older people’s housing, which includes a prospectus to be published and which encourages new supply of specialist accommodation. An approach which supports the recommendations outlined in the March 2015 Executive Board report on developing a range of choices in the older people’s housing market.

Further to Minute No. 173, 18^th March 2015, the Director of City Development and the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a joint report providing an approach towards older people’s housing, which included a prospectus to be published and which encouraged a new supply of specialist accommodation.

A Member emphasised the need to ensure that the Council was robust in ensuring that the development of any sites declared surplus to requirements were utilised for older people’s specialist accommodation. In response, Members were assured that any offers which were received for those sites detailed within the submitted report would be referred to Executive Board for determination.

The Board received further specific details regarding the Windlesford Green site and also, responding to an enquiry, Members noted the actions which would be taken to ensure that any proposals which were progressed would be consistent with the local community’s requirements.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the content of the Older People’s Housing Prospectus, as attached at Appendices 1 and 2 to the submitted report be approved, and that following the graphic design process, the formal publication of the document in Autumn 2015 be supported;

(b)  That the sites listed at section 3.12 of the submitted report be declared surplus to Council requirements and that the identified sites be approved for the purposes of marketing for disposal,with a preference that such sites be developed for the purposes of older people’s specialist accommodation;

(c)  That the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development to identify further sites to support the delivery of older people’s specialist accommodation provision;

(d)  That it be noted that any offers received for the sites listed at section 3.12 of the submitted report will be referred to Executive Board for consideration.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services providing an update on the outcomes and achievements to date of the Learning Disability Day Service Modernisation Project and presenting information on how the final phase of the programme will be delivered.  The report also requests authority to incur expenditure of £870.0k for the refurbishment of Potternewton Fulfilling Lives Centre, to be funded from within the current capital programme.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report providing an update on the outcomes and achievements to date of the Learning Disability Day Service Modernisation Project and presenting information on how the final phase of the programme would be delivered. The report also sought authority to incur expenditure of £870.0k for the refurbishment of Potternewton Fulfilling Lives Centre, to be funded from within the current Capital Programme

Responding to an enquiry, the Board received further information on the process by which a property would be placed into void management, and if appropriate, how a property would then be put forward for disposal. Officers then undertook to provide the Member in question with a further briefing on such matters, if required.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the achievements to date of the Learning Disability Day Service Modernisation Project be noted, which to date had positively transformed day opportunities for over 560 adults with learning disabilities in the city;

(b)  That the plan to complete the Learning Disability Day Service Modernisation Project in the East North East of the city, which is in accordance with the Better Lives Strategy, be noted.  It also be noted that the plan will create three new bases at Wetherby, Cross Gates and Richmond Hill in addition to the refurbishment of Potternewton Fulfilling Lives Centre.  In turn this will allow both Wetherby and Ramshead Wood day centre sites to be released by Adult Social Care and put into void management.

(c)  That as part of this plan, the proposal to refurbish the existing Potternewton Fulfilling Lives Centre be agreed and that authority be given to spend a total of £870.0k for this development, which has been identified and transferred from existing resources within the current Capital Programme.

(d)  That it be noted that it is intended for the scheme, as described in section 3.5 of the submitted report, will be started and completed between February and September 2016 and that the lead officer responsible for the implementation of such matters is the Director of Adult Social Services.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services introducing the eighth and last annual report of the previous Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board, prior to its re-constitution as a statutory board under the Care Act 2014. In addition, the report provides an update on the work, going forward, of the new statutory Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board.

Further to Minute No. 60, 17^th September 2014, the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report introducing the eighth and last annual report of the previous Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board, prior to its re-constitution as a statutory board under the Care Act 2014. In addition, the report provided an update on the work, going forward, of the new statutory Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board.

The Board welcomed Richard Jones, Independent Chair of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board, who was in attendance in order to introduce himself and set out his initial priorities for the role.

In terms of Executive Board receiving further, interim updates on the work of the Safeguarding Board, it was highlighted that further consideration would be given to this matter in order to ensure that this was done in the most effective way.

Responding to an enquiry, officers undertook to provide all Executive Members with the Local Government Association led Peer Review of Safeguarding Adults in Leeds.

In addition, Members also received assurances on the comprehensive and co-ordinated work which was ongoing to safeguard those vulnerable individuals travelling via private hire taxi vehicles, with reference being made to the ongoing involvement of the Safeguarding Boards in such initiatives.

It was also noted that an update report regarding the issue of safeguarding in taxi and private hire licensing was scheduled to be submitted to the next meeting of the Board.

In conclusion, it was noted that regular update meetings would be scheduled between the Safeguarding Board Chair and the Chief Executive, and it was also noted that meetings would be arranged between the Chair and individual Group Leaders.

RESOLVED – That the contents of the submitted report, together with the appended 2014/15 annual report be noted and that the work programme of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board for 2015/16 be endorsed.

To consider the report of the Independent Chair of the Leeds Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) which introduces and presents the key issues from the LSCB Annual Report (2014/15).

Further to Minute No. 61, 17^th September 2014, the Independent Chair of

the Leeds Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) submitted a report which introduced and presented the key issues from the LSCB Annual Report (2014/15).

The Board welcomed Mark Peel, Independent Chair of the Leeds Safeguarding Children Board, who was in attendance in order to introduce himself and set out his initial priorities for the role.

In terms of Executive Board receiving further, interim updates on the work of the Safeguarding Board, it was highlighted that further consideration would be given to this matter in order to ensure that this was done in the most effective way.

In addition, Members also received assurances on the comprehensive and co-ordinated work which was ongoing to safeguard those vulnerable individuals travelling via private hire taxi vehicles, with reference being made to the ongoing involvement of the Safeguarding Boards in such initiatives.

It was also noted that an update report regarding the issue of safeguarding in taxi and private hire licensing was scheduled to be submitted to the next meeting of the Board.

In conclusion, it was noted that regular update meetings would be scheduled between the Safeguarding Board Chair and the Chief Executive, and it was also noted that meetings would be arranged between the Chair and individual Group Leaders.

RESOLVED – That the key issues from the LSCB Annual Report for 2014/15 be noted, specifically:

-  The evaluation of the effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements in Leeds;

-  The challenges identified for strategic bodies in 2015/16; and

-  The implications for the work of Leeds City Council.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services which seeks permission to consult on the proposal to further develop social and emotional mental health (SEMH) education provision in Leeds, and take steps to move the governance (cease to provide) of some existing providers to become part of an outstanding local Academy.  This would enable the establishment of additional SEMH provision on sites in the east and in the south of the city as part of the conversion process with an outstanding preferred sponsor.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report which sought permission to undertake consultation on the proposal to further develop social and emotional mental health (SEMH) education provision in Leeds. In addition, the report proposed to take steps to move the governance (cease to provide) of some existing providers to become part of an outstanding local Academy, which would enable the establishment of additional SEMH provision on sites in the east and in the south of the city as part of the conversion process with an outstanding preferred sponsor.

A request was made that the matters detailed within the submitted report were progressed as swiftly as possible, that liaison with the Department for Education continued to take place throughout this process and that the Board continued to be kept up to date as appropriate.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the intention to convert the existing Behavioural, Emotional  and Social Difficulties (BESD) Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC) into a 4 – 19 SEMH sponsored academy across one primary phase and three secondary phase sites, be noted;

(b)  That approval and permission be granted to consult upon changing (ceasing to provide) provision at North East SILC Oakwood site in order to become part of the new academy, from 31 August 2016;

(c)  That approval be given to establishing a new site in east Leeds for Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) as part of the converted BESD SILC academy from 2017;

(d)  That approval be given to establishing a new site in south Leeds for Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) as part of the converted BESD SILC academy from 2017; 

(e)  That approval be given to proceed with the design development for the first two SEMH projects, with an acceptance of the associated design fees incurred;

(f)  That the capital expenditure required to create a world class provision within the city be approved in principle and subject to further reports being submitted to Executive Board, and that the savings, both in the revenue costs and social capital costs, of not having to provide for children with SEMH outside of the authority be acknowledged;

(g)  That it be noted that the officer responsible for the implementation of such matters is the Head of Learning Systems, and that the scheme will be implemented by September 2017.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services providing statistical information on the annual admissions round for entry to Reception and year 7 for September 2015. In addition, the report considers the potential effect of the latest government consultation on changes to the admissions code, and also potential for changes within the Leeds City Council admissions policy.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report providing statistical information on the annual admissions round for entry to Reception and year 7 for September 2015. In addition, the report considered the potential effect of the latest government consultation on changes to the admissions code, and also potential for changes within the Leeds City Council admissions policy.

In receiving the submitted report, the Chair acknowledged the extraordinary work being undertaken to continue to address the challenges being faced by the Council in this area.

RESOLVED – That the following be noted:-

-  The numbers of applications for both phases of education; that the percentage of successful first preferences for secondary admissions was 83% and for Reception admissions was 85%;

-  The percentage of parents receiving one of their top three preferences was 95% for secondary and 93% for primary;

-  The percentage of parents getting none of their preferences and made an alternative offer instead was 4.5% in secondary (3.2% last year) and 5.5% in primary (5% last year);

-  The expected contents of the government consultation on changes to the admissions code for 2016;

-  That the officer responsible for such matters is the Admissions and Family Information Service Lead.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services presenting details of proposals submitted to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of both school and SEN places. Specifically, this report describes the outcome of the consultation regarding proposals to expand primary school provision and establish SEN provision at Carr Manor Community School and also seeks permission to publish a statutory notice in respect of these proposals. 

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report presenting details of proposals submitted to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of both school and Specialist Educational Needs (SEN) places. Specifically, this report described the outcome of the consultation regarding proposals to expand primary school provision and establish SEN provision at Carr Manor Community School and which also sought permission to publish a statutory notice in respect of these proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given for the publication of a Statutory Notice to expand primary provision at Carr Manor Community 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 2017, and also to establish provision for pupils with Complex Communication Difficulties including children who may have a diagnosis of ASC (Autistic Spectrum Condition) forapproximately 12 pupils (6 primary, 6 secondary) with effect from September 2017;

(b)  That it be noted that the responsible officers for the implementation of such matters are the Capacity Planning and Sufficiency Lead and the Head of Complex Needs.

To consider the joint report of the Director of Children’s Services, the Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of City Development presenting details of proposals submitted to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. Specifically, this report describes the outcome of consultation regarding proposals to expand primary school provision at Greenside and seeks permission to publish a statutory notice in respect of these proposals. 

Further to Minute No. 41, 23^rd September 2015, the Director of Children’s Services, the Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report presenting details of proposals submitted to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school places. Specifically, this report described the outcome of consultation regarding proposals to expand primary school provision at Greenside and which sought permission to publish a statutory notice in respect of these proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the publication of a Statutory Notice to expand Greenside Primary School from a capacity of 315 pupils to 420 pupils with an increase in the admission number from 45 to 60 with effect from September 2017, be approved;

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

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing providing an update on the Council’s investment strategy into older people’s housing provision across the city, and seeks authorisation to commence a further phase of work in this area.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report providing an update on the Council’s investment strategy into older people’s housing provision across the city, and which sought authorisation to commence a further phase of work in this area.

As part of the introduction to the report, the Board was asked to take into consideration the fact that introductory paragraph 5 of the submitted report should read £12.5m, and not £1.25m, as currently presented.

Responding to an enquiry, the Board received further information on the actions being taken to ensure that a co-ordinated approach was being taken to ensure the effective provision of sheltered housing across the city. In addition, where improvements to properties were proposed, Members emphasised the importance of prior consultation with those affected. Further to this, it was highlighted that a more resident focussed approach was now taken in terms of policies associated with sheltered housing. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted, subject to the correction outlined above;

(b)  That approval be given to commence a further phase of work, as identified under the ‘Investment’ section at paragraph 3.7 of the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) providing an update on the review of ten Community Centres as previously reported to the Board.  Specifically, the report provides information on the consultation undertaken, the actions that have been progressed on all ten Community Centres under review and details a specific proposal to move ahead with the closure of two centres, one being Gildersome Youth Club and the other being Kippax Youth Centre.

Further to Minute No. 106, 19^th November 2014, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing an update on the review of ten Community Centres as previously reported to the Board. Specifically, the report provides information on the consultation undertaken, the actions that have been progressed on all ten Community Centres under review and details a specific proposal to move ahead with the closure of two centres, one being Gildersome Youth Club and the other being Kippax Youth Centre.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) be requested to undertake the following actions:-

(i)  effects the closure of Gildersome Youth Club, Street Lane, Gildersome and declares the property surplus to Council’s requirement;

(ii)  effects the closure of Kippax Youth Centre, known as the Kippax Cabin, Cross Hills, Kippax and declares the property surplus to Council’s requirement ;

(iii)  arranges the relocation of current users of Gildersome Youth Club and Kippax Youth Centre to appropriate local venues, and;

(iv)  carries out the actions specified in the submitted report relating to the future running of the following community centres:

·  Bramley Community Centre, Waterloo Lane, Bramley

·  Fieldhead Youth and Adult Centre, Naburn Approach, Whinmoor

·  Lewisham Park Centre, Clough Street, Morley

·  Old Cockburn Sports Hall, Primrose Lane, Hunslet

·  Meanwood Community Centre, Stainbeck Avenue, Meanwood

·  St Gabriel's Community Centre, Fall Lane, East Ardsley

·  Weston Lane Community Centre, Weston Ridge, Otley

·  Windmill Youth Centre, Marsh Street, Rothwell

(b)  That approval be given to the ring fencing of the required portion of the capital receipt from the sale of the Gildersome Youth Centre site to make improvements to Gildersome Meeting Hall, and that it be noted that the Director of City Development is responsible for the implementation of this resolution.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:    FRIDAY, 20^TH NOVEMBER 2015

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  5.00PM, FRIDAY, 27^TH NOVEMBER 2015

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00noon on Monday, 30^th November 2015)