Agenda and minutes

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

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

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

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

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

(a)  Appendix 1 to the report referred to in Minute No. 47 under the terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that it relates to the financial or business affairs of the Council and it is therefore considered not to be in the public interest to disclose this information, as it would be likely to prejudice the Council’s current negotiations.

(b)  Appendix 1 to the report referred to in Minute No. 48, under the  terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that this information relates to the financial or business affairs of a particular person and of the Council. It is therefore 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. 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)  The appendix to the report referred to in Minute No. 53, under the  terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that it relates to the financial or business affairs of a particular person, and of the Council. This information is not publicly available from the statutory registers of information kept in respect of certain companies and charities.  It is considered that since this information was obtained through one to one negotiations for the disposal of the property/land then it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this point in time.  Also it is considered that the release of such information would or would be likely to prejudice the Council’s commercial interests in relation to other similar transactions in that prospective purchasers of other similar properties would have access to information about the nature and level of consideration which may prove acceptable to the Council. It is considered that whilst there may be a public interest in disclosure, much of this information will be publicly available from the Land Registry following completion of this transaction and consequently the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing this information at this point in time.

(d)    Appendix 2 to the report referred to in Minute No. 54, under the  terms of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) and on the grounds that the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 30.

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

Councillors Wakefield, Dobson and Ogilvie all declared personal interests in the item entitled, ‘Design and Cost Report: Lotherton Estate Improvements’, due to being Leeds Card holders (Minute No. 35 refers).

Councillors Finnigan, Blake and R Lewis all declared personal interests in the item entitled, ‘Investment Partnership for South Leeds’, due to being members of the Investment Partnership for South Leeds. (Minute No.  44 refers).

Councillors Ogilvie and Dobson both declared personal interests in the item entitled, ‘Three Year Grant Funding for Culture’, due to being members of the Leeds Initiative – Sustainable Economy and Culture Board. (Minute No. 34 refers).

Councillor R Lewis declared a personal interest in the item entitled, ‘Arms Length Management Organisations (ALMO) and Tenant Management Organisations Annual Reports for 2010/11’, due to being a member of the Outer West ALMO Area Panel. (Minute No. 56 refers).

Councillors Golton and Finnigan both declared personal interests in the items respectively entitled, ‘Primary Basic Need 2012 – Outcome of Statutory Notices for the Expansion of Primary Provision in 2012’ and ‘Primary Basic Need Programme – Permission to Consult on Proposals for Expansion of Primary Provision in 2013 and 2014’, due to their respective positions as governors of Primary Schools. (Minute Nos. 58 and 59 refer respectively).

Further declarations of interest were made at a later point in the meeting (Minute Nos. 55 and 56 refer respectively).

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 22^nd June 2011.

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the meeting held on 22^nd June 2011 be approved as a correct record, subject to the inclusion of the comments made by Councillor A Carter in respect of Minute No. 22 entitled, ‘Housing Appeals – Implications of the Secretary of State’s Decision relating to Land at Grimes Dyke, East Leeds’, in which he emphasised the need to postpone the immediate release of all the Phase 2 and 3 housing allocations within the UDP, as recommended within the report, until after the outcomes from the related Inquiry undertaken by the Scrutiny Board (Regeneration) had been  considered.  

In respect of Minute No. 22(g), ‘‘Housing Appeals – Implications of the Secretary of State’s Decision relating to Land at Grimes Dyke, East Leeds’, the Chair suggested that a forthcoming visit to be made by Greg Clarke MP, Minister for Cities, would provide an opportunity for an all party lobbying exercise to be undertaken in respect of issues such as the land banking practices of developers.

To consider the report of the Chief Libraries, Arts and Heritage Officer responding to requests from the large arts organisations to provide longer term funding arrangements to enable them to plan their programme better. In addition, the report takes the opportunity to review the approach taken towards funding arrangements, reflecting on the new strategic priority plan and the impact of other agencies’ decisions on future funding, whilst also introducing a new, more robust and transparent process.

The Chief Libraries, Arts and Heritage Officer submitted a report responding to requests from the large arts organisations to provide longer term funding arrangements. In addition, the report reviewed current approaches and looked to reflect the new strategic priority plan and impact of other agencies’ decisions on future funding arrangements, whilst also proposing the introduction of a new, more robust and transparent process.

Members suggested that a report was submitted to a future meeting of the Board outlining the actions being taken to work with young people in order to identify, nurture and retain the sporting and musical talent within the city, in conjunction with the Leeds Arena development.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the introduction of 3 year grant funding to cultural organisations be approved.

(b)   That the introduction of Culture Leeds grants be approved.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development seeking an injection into the capital programme for various improvement works at Lotherton, which would be funded by prudential borrowing from additional income raised from changes to the current charging policy.

The Director of City Development submitted a report seeking an injection into the capital programme for various improvement works at Lotherton Estate, which would be funded by prudential borrowing from additional income raised via changes to the current charging policy.

Members made several comments on the proposals regarding the site improvements and charging policy and suggested that a further report was submitted to the Board, which enabled the outcomes arising from the consultation exercise to be fully considered.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which was being undertaken in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That an injection of £160,000 in to the capital programme for improvements at Lotherton be approved, which will be funded by prudential borrowing from additional income raised from changes to the current charges for Lotherton.

(b)  That the authority to incur expenditure of £160,000 on improvements to Lotherton be approved.

(c)  That the charges for entry to all facilities on the Estate be approved.

(d)  That, following the conclusion of the consultation, any change to the Phase 1 improvements be delegated to the Director of City Development with concurrence of the Executive Board Member (Leisure).

(e)  That a further report be submitted to the Board, which enabled the outcomes arising from the consultation exercise undertaken to be fully considered.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services regarding the outcome of the consultation on charges for non-residential services (home care, supported living, day care, transport, and direct payments) and makes recommendations for changes to these charges.

Further to Minute No. 141, 15^th December 2010, the Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report regarding the outcome of the consultation exercise undertaken in respect of charges for non-residential services, whilst making recommendations for changes to such charges.

Members highlighted the need to ensure that consideration was given to the frequency of reviews undertaken on this matter and suggested that details were provided to Board Members of those Local Authorities which had also altered their charges, in addition to information on the potential impact for Leeds arising from the Dilnot Commission’s report.

In noting the cross party support for this matter, the Chair proposed that cross party discussions continued, so that the proposals could be progressed effectively.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the outcomes of the consultation and the way in which they have been addressed, as set out within sections 4.6 to 5.7 of the submitted report, be noted.

(b)  That the outcomes of the equality impact assessment and the way in which they have been addressed, as set out within sections 7.1 to 7.4 of the submitted report, be noted.

(c)  That the changes to charges for non-residential services, as set out in sections 5.4 to 5.7 of the submitted report, effective from 1^st October 2011, be approved.

(d)  That the revised Adult Social Care Charging and Contributions Policy Framework, as set out within Appendix 6 of the submitted report be approved.

(e)  That the further review of charges and the financial assessment methodology, together with the associated consultation process, as set out within sections 5.15 and 5.16 of the submitted report, be approved.

(f)  That a further report on the outcomes of the further consultation process and proposals regarding charges and the financial assessment methodology be submitted to a future meeting of the Board.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services introducing the fourth annual report of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board and providing an update on the work of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Partnership.

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report introducing the fourth annual report of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board and providing an update on the work of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Partnership.

Copies of the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board Annual Report for 2010/2011 had been circulated to Board Members for their consideration.

Professor Paul Kingston, Independent Chair of the Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board, was in attendance at the meeting and provided an introduction to the report.

In responding to enquiries, officers undertook to provide Board Members with a breakdown of the statistics regarding the locations of alleged abuse in respect of private and public service providers.

RESOLVED – That the content of the attached 2010/11 annual report be noted and that the work programme of the Adult Safeguarding Partnership Board for 2011/12 be endorsed.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources presenting  the Council’s financial health position after three months of the financial year.

The Director of Resources submitted a report presenting the Council’s financial health position after three months of the 2011/12 financial year.

Enquiries were made into the current position of the Children’s Services and Adult Social Care budgets. In response, Members were provided with information where available, with the undertaking that further detail regarding Children’s Services would be provided in due course. In general, it was noted that more detailed information relating to those areas facing particular budgetary pressures would be made available at future meetings. Emphasis was then placed upon the Council’s current financial pressures and assurances were given that the management of such budgetary pressures remained a priority. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the projected financial position of the authority after three months of the financial year be noted.

(b)  That directorates continue to develop and implement action plans which are robust and which will deliver a balanced budget by the year end.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources providing a final update on Treasury Management Strategy and operations in 2010/11.

The Director of Resources submitted a report providing a final update on Treasury Management Strategy and operations in 2010/11.

On behalf of the Board, the Chair thanked all of those officers who had been involved in the work of the Treasury Management Strategy and operations over the past year.

RESOLVED – That the treasury management outturn position for 2010/11 be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources providing an update of the financial position for 2011/12 as at June 2011.  The report includes an update of capital resources; a summary of schemes which have been upgraded from ‘Amber’ status to ‘Green’ status since February and provides a summary of progress made on some major schemes.  In addition, the report seeks some specific approvals to allow some schemes to progress. 

The Director of Resources submitted a report providing an update on the financial position for 2011/12 as at June 2011, which included details of capital resources, a summary of schemes which had been upgraded from ‘Amber’ status to ‘Green’ since February and which provided a summary of progress made on some major schemes.  In addition, the report sought specific approvals to enable some schemes to progress. 

Responses were received to Members’ enquiries regarding the ICT related projects which were detailed within the submitted report.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the latest position on the general fund and HRA capital programmes be noted.

(b)  That the transfer of schemes from the Amber to the Green programmes as set out in section 3.3 of the submitted report be noted.

(c)  That the bringing together of a number of ICT schemes within the approved capital programme to form the ICT Essential Services Programme(ESP), with a total value of £5,800,000, as set out in Appendix C of the submitted report,be noted.

(d)  That authority be given to incur expenditure of £2,130,000 on the migration to Microsoft technologies from Novell, as included in Appendix C to the submitted report.

(e)  That authority be given to incur expenditure of £950,000 on the Storage Consolidation element of the ESP as included in Appendix C to the submitted report.

(f)  That an injection into the capital programme of £4,389,500 to progress phase 1 of the Changing the Workplace programme be approved.

(g)  That approval be given to the promotion of £168,900 from the reserved to the funded capital programme, in order to allow the demolition of the former Parklees (ASC) building to proceed.

(h)  That an injection into the capital programme of £50,000 be approved in order to provide a grant to Clifford Parish Council.

To consider the report of the Director of Resources providing Executive Board with an overview of the Council’s corporate risks and the risk management work undertaken by the Risk Management Unit (RMU) in the last year in support of the Council’s Risk Management Framework, and  highlighting future areas of work to improve the Council’s management of risk.

The Director of Resources submitted a report which providing an overview of the Council’s corporate risks and the risk management work which had been undertaken by the Risk Management Unit (RMU) in the last year in support of the Council’s Risk Management Framework. In addition, the report highlighted future areas of work to improve the management of risk and provided assurances on the strength of the risk management arrangements currently in place. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the report, the risks on the corporate risk register and the progress made on enhancing the Council’s risk management arrangements be noted. 

(b)  That Executive Board Members continue to review and challenge the arrangements, particularly in relation to strategic decision-making and the delivery of the authority’s new City and Council strategic priorities.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development providing an update on the findings from public consultation exercise undertaken earlier this year, on the petition organised by the Friends of Kirkgate Market group and outlining the measures taken by the Council to address the issues raised. In addition, the report sets out the strategy for Kirkgate Market in order to ensure the market is sustainable.

Further to Minute No. 123, 15^th December 2010, the Director of City Development submitted a report providing an update on the findings from a public consultation exercise undertaken earlier in the year, on the petition organised by the Friends of Kirkgate Market Group and outlining the measures taken by the Council to address the issues raised.  In addition, the report set out the strategy for Kirkgate Market in order to ensure the market was sustainable.

Having received responses to Members’ enquiries regarding rental levels and the potential input of independent retailers into the running of the market, the Chair highlighted the levels of support for the long term future of the market which had been received.

The report noted that full equality impact assessments would be carried out on the different forms of arms-length companies and in determining the optimum size of the market.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Board restates its commitment to the long term future and success of Kirkgate Market.

(b)  That the vision and objectives for Kirkgate Market, as set out within Section 4 of the submitted report, be endorsed.

(c)  That the strategy for Kirkgate Market, as set out within Appendix II of the submitted report be endorsed, specifically in respect of the proposals to:-

i)  move the management and ownership of Kirkgate Market to an arms length company and establish a Project Board and engage expert opinion to consider and recommend the form this should take;

ii)  start consultation with staff and the Trades Unions to inform the recommendations to Executive Board;

iii)  determine the optimum size for the indoor and open markets, after taking expert advice, and determine the necessary steps to reach that size.

To consider the report of the Head of Scrutiny and Member Development summarising the responses to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Board (City Development) arising from its inquiry entitled, ‘Review of the Future of Kirkgate Market’.

The Head of Scrutiny and Member Development submitted a report summarising the responses to the recommendations of the former Scrutiny Board (City Development) arising from its inquiry entitled ‘Review of the Future of Kirkgate Market’.

RESOLVED – That the directorate responses to the recommendations of the former Scrutiny Board (City Development) arising from its inquiry into the future of Kirkgate Market be noted.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development providing an update on the work undertaken on the Investment Partnership for South Leeds, an overview of the Investment Strategy which has been prepared, and details about the consultation undertaken and the forthcoming launch event for the strategy.

Further to Minute No. 9, 17th June 2009, the Director of City Development submitted a report presenting an update on the work undertaken to date, providing an overview of the Investment Strategy, whilst providing details of the consultation which had been undertaken and the forthcoming launch event for the strategy. 

RESOLVED – 

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report, together with the production of the Investment Strategy for South Leeds be welcomed, subject to the issues raised in paragraph 3.6 of the submitted report.

(b)  That the continuation of more detailed work to support the preparation of the Core Strategy and subsequent Site Allocations Development Plan Document be agreed.

(c)  That a review of the governance arrangements, as the work referred to in paragraph 7.2 of the submitted report  progresses, be agreed.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development seeking Executive Board agreement to transfer the Chapeltown Enterprise Centre on a 99 year peppercorn lease basis to Unity Enterprise and extend the management agreement for Leeds Media Centre to Unity Enterprise as part of the Chapeltown Enterprise Network project.

The Director of City Development submitted a report on the proposed transfer of the Chapeltown Enterprise Centre, on a 99 year peppercorn lease basis to Unity Enterprise, and the extension of the management agreement for Leeds Media Centre to Unity Enterprise, as part of the Chapeltown Enterprise Network project.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposal from Unity Enterprise be noted.

(b)  That a 99 year full repairing and insuring lease be provided for the Chapeltown Enterprise Centre to Unity Enterprise on a peppercorn basis, subject to:-

i)  no revenue grant support being payable;

ii)  that the agreed refurbishment works are successfully completed.

(c)  That a 10 year service level agreement be provided to Unity Enterprise to manage Leeds Media Centre, subject to:-

i)  no revenue grant support being payable;

ii)  that the rent payable by Unity Enterprise is nil;

iii)  that the targets and outputs as part of the service level agreement are in line with those contained within the existing service level agreement for 2011/12.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development providing an explanation of the permit scheme proposed and the expected benefits provided by the scheme, and seeking approval to apply to the Secretary of State to operate the permit scheme.

The Director of City Development submitted a report on the proposed permit scheme and detailing the expected benefits of the initiative. In addition, the report also sought approval for the submission of an application to the Secretary of State regarding the operation of the permit scheme.

In response to Members’ enquiries regarding the remit of the scheme, it was stated that such matters would be kept under review.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED – That officers be authorised to make an application to the Secretary of State to implement the permit scheme, as outlined within the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development presenting a recommendation about the future of Architectural Design Services, following  the extensive investigation of two options identified by the Board at its meeting on 9^th March 2011.

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

Further to Minute No. 182, 9th March 2011, the Director of City Development submitted a report presenting a recommendation about the future provision of Architectural Design Services (ADS) following the extensive investigation of two options previously identified by the Board.

The report presented the following two options, which Executive Board had previously instructed officers to explore further:-

Option 1 - to explore to the establishment of a joint venture arrangement with Norfolk Property Services (NPS) as the preferred route.

Option 2 - to explore alongside this in more detail, the option to separately procure design services using existing frameworks where appropriate e.g. Office of Government Commerce (OGC).

Members highlighted the need for this matter to be progressed without delay.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of the proposals.

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

RESOLVED –

(a)  That Option 1 be pursued and that the establishment of a Joint Venture Company with Norfolk Property Services (NPS) be supported in principle.

(b)  That, subject to the agreement of detailed terms, the Director of City Development be given delegated authority to finalise contractual terms with NPS and to establish appropriate interim arrangements.

(c)  That, should negotiations with NPS not be satisfactorily concluded, Option 2 be pursued, with a further report being brought back to Executive Board should this situation arise.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development informing of the outcome of the consultation undertaken on the Draft Planning Statement for the Sovereign Street site, whilst also providing an update on the potential to create a new city centre greenspace, in conjunction with a mixed use development at this location.

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

The Director of City Development submitted a report informing of the outcomes from the consultation on the Draft Planning Statement for the Sovereign Street site and providing an update on the progress made to date on the potential to create a new city centre greenspace, in conjunction with a mixed use development on the site.

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

RESOLVED –

(a)   That the progress made in relation to the development proposals for the Sovereign Street site be noted.

(b)  That the revised Sovereign Street Planning Statement be approved as a guide to future development proposals for the Sovereign Street site.

(c)  That the draft Heads of Terms agreed with KPMG and Sovereign Leeds Ltd, as detailed within exempt appendix 1 for site A be approved, and that authority be delegated to the Director of City Development in order to negotiate the detailed terms.

(d)  That a further six month exclusivity period be granted, for KPMG to complete their due diligence on the site and to complete the Agreement for lease.

(e)  That the marketing of the two remaining development sites be commenced upon completion of the Development Agreement with KPMG, expected in September 2011.

(f)  That the principle of using part of the KPMG receipt to deliver the proposed greenspace be approved.

(g)  That approval is given to appropriate land from highways to planning purposes to allow easements and other rights be overriden pursuant to S237 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 on the proposed KPMG (Site A).

(h)  That an injection into the Capital Programme and the authority to spend up to £100,000 of feasibility funding be approved, for the design brief and scheme development which will enable the procurement of the new greenspace.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development report addressing the request of Full Council for a feasibility study into the establishment of a Low Emission Zone in Leeds to be undertaken.

The Director of City Development submitted a report addressing the request of Full Council for a feasibility study to be undertaken into the establishment of a Low Emission Zone in Leeds.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the content of this response to Full Council’s resolution requesting a study into the feasibility of establishing a Low Emission Zone in Leeds be noted.

(b)  That the bid which has been made to DEFRA in respect of funding be noted and endorsed.

(c)  That, subject to the DEFRA funding bid being successful, the further development of proposals for an initial feasibility study be approved, with a further progress report being received in due course.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development detailing the proposed response to the Government’s consultation on a National High Speed Rail Strategy.

The Director of City Development submitted a report detailing the proposed response to the Government’s consultation on a National High Speed Rail Strategy.

Members emphasised the need for the lobbying process in respect of this matter to continue.

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That support for the Government’s high speed rail strategy and network proposals be confirmed.

(c)  That the proposed response to the national high speed rail consultation, as appended to the submitted report, be approved.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development summarising the responses from the recent public consultation exercise in relation to the proposed Article 4 Direction to require planning permission for a change of use from Use Class C3 to C4 in selected areas of Leeds, and seeking Executive Board approval to confirm the Article 4 Direction.

The Director of City Development submitted a report summarising the responses from the recent public consultation exercise in relation to the proposed Article 4 Direction in Leeds, and sought approval to confirm the Article 4 Direction.

In response to Members’ enquiries, officers undertook to look into those geographical areas highlighted which were not referenced within the report.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report and the responses received in relation to the Article 4 Direction public consultation exercise be noted.

(b)  That the principle of confirming the Article 4 Direction to cover the area proposed be approved and that the Chief Planning Officer be delegated the necessary authority to confirm the Direction.

To consider the report of the Acting Director of City Development responding to full Council’s resolution of 6^th April 2011 to request the Executive Board to instruct the Council’s Highways Department to ensure that consultation with Ward Members takes place with regard to Planning Applications’ highways matters before the Highways Department passes formal comment to Planning Officers.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to full Council’s resolution of 6^th April 2011 requesting that Executive Board instructed the Council’s Highways Department to ensure that consultation with Ward Members took place with regard to planning applications’ highways matters prior to the Highways Department passing formal comment to planning officers.

The Chief Executive stated that correspondence had been received from Councillor Cleasby in respect of this matter, who had requested that the recommendations detailed within the submitted report be replaced by the resolution which had been formally agreed by Council on the 6^th April 2011.

RESOLVED – That in light of the representations received in respect of this matter, the report be withdrawn from the agenda, with a further report being submitted for consideration in due course.

To consider the joint report of the Acting Director of City Development and the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods regarding proposals to sell the subject site on the provisionally agreed terms contained within the exempt appendix, which includes payment of part of the receipt deferred until completion of the development.

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

The Director of City Development and the Director of Environments and Neighbourhoods submitted a joint report which sought approval to sell the subject site on the provisionally agreed terms, contained within the exempt appendix to the submitted report, which included deferring payment of part of the receipt until completion of the development.

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

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the site of the former Wyther Park Primary School be sold on a deferred payment basis, on the terms outlined within the submitted report.

(b)  That approval be given to the use of the deferred payment received in a Local Investment Plan priority scheme.

To consider a report of the Acting Director of City Development regarding proposals to develop a scheme to install a maximum of £3,010,000 of investment in solar photovoltaic systems on Council buildings, including schools, which would generate an income over 25 years.

Appendix 2 to the report is designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3).

The Director of City Development submitted a report regarding proposals to develop a scheme to install a maximum of £3,010,000 of investment in solar photovoltaic systems on Council buildings, including schools, which would generate an income over 25 years.

Following consideration of Appendix 2 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3) which was considered in private at he conclusion of the meeting, it was

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the project proposal for installing photovoltaic in corporate buildings, including schools, be approved.

(b)  That the injection of £3,010,000 into the Capital Programme to be fully funded by Unsupported Borrowing be approved.

(c)  That delegated authority be given to the Director of Resources to authorise expenditure of up to any value on a scheme by scheme basis, up to a total of £3,010,000, which will be subject to a prior approval of a Business Case for each site by the Director of Resources.

(d)  That the Director of City Development be given delegated authority to approve the award of the contract and building selection.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods providing an update on the outcome of the Government Value for Money review of the national housing PFI programme and its impact on the above project, the resultant changes required to the project scope, the affordability of the project following the changes and notifying Members of the Key Decision taken by the Director of Environment & Neighbourhoods approving changes to the project scope and affordability and the re-submission of a Pre-Preferred Bidder Final Business Case for the project to the Homes and Communities Agency.

The appendices to this report are designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3)and(5).

The Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods submitted a report providing an update on the outcome of the Government Value for Money Review of the national housing PFI programme and its impact upon the Little London, Beeston Hill and Holbeck PFI project, the resultant changes required to the project scope, the affordability of the project following such changes and on the recent Key Decision taken by the Director of Environment & Neighbourhoods. 

Members received an update on the current position of the project.

The report provided details of the equality impact assessment which had been undertaken in respect of this matter.

Following consideration of the appendices 1 and 2 to the submitted report, designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3), and appendix 3 to the same report, designated as exempt under Access to Information Procedure Rules 10.4 (3) and (5), which were considered in private at he conclusion of the meeting, it was

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the outcome of the government value for money review be noted.

(b)  That the overall changes and cost variations to the project be noted.

(c)  That the re-submission of an amended Pre-Preferred Bidder Final Business Case under the Director Delegation Scheme as detailed in paragraph 7.1 of the submitted report, be noted.

(d)  That the revised overall affordability position, as detailed in exempt appendix 2 of the submitted report, be noted.

(e)  That it be noted (without affecting the resolutions of the meeting of this Board on 9th March 2011 including those granting authority to enable the Project to reach financial close) that it is anticipated that a further report be brought to a future Board meeting in due course with details of the Pre-Financial Close affordability.

(Councillors Finnigan and Dobson both declared personal interests in relation to this matter, due to their respective positions as Aire Valley Homes ALMO Board Members).

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods presenting the 2010/2011 achievement reports for the Arms Length Management Organisations and Belle Isle Tenant Management Organisation.

The Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods submitted a report presenting the in 2010/11 Annual Reports for the Arms Length Management Organisations (ALMOs) and Belle Isle Tenant Management Organisation (BITMO) which highlighted the achievements and performance results for the previous year.

The Board welcomed the four Chief Executives of the ALMOs and BITMO, who were in attendance to provide additional detail and answer any questions.

Following Members’ enquiries regarding tenants’ perception of the ALMOs and BITMO, it was proposed that a report was submitted to a future meeting of the Board in respect of such matters and the work being undertaken to improve tenants’ satisfaction levels.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the 2010/11 ALMO and BITMO annual reports and supporting papers be noted.

(b)  That a report be submitted to a future meeting of the Board regarding tenants’ satisfaction levels, and the work being undertaken to improve such levels.

(Councillors Finnigan, Dobson and Blake all declared personal interests in relation to this matter, due to their respective positions as either Aire Valley Homes ALMO Board Members or Belle Isle Tenant Management Organisation Board Members).

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods providing an update on the response to the Scrutiny Board (Environment and Neighbourhoods) Inquiry into site provision for gypsies and travellers in Leeds.

Further to Minute No. 168, 11^th February 2011, the Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods submitted a report providing an update on the work undertaken following the Board’s consideration of the response to the inquiry undertaken by the former Scrutiny Board (Environment and Neighbourhoods) Inquiry into site provision for Gypsies and Travellers in Leeds.

Members made enquiries into the content of the report, when compared to the current governmental guidance relating to site development for Gypsies and Travellers and due to the fact that the government was currently consulting on new planning policy for such sites. In response, Members received assurances in respect of their enquiries, including those in respect of external funding proposals, whilst officers undertook to circulate the relevant governmental guidance on this matter as appropriate. In addition, it was proposed that a further report was submitted to the Board in due course when the new governmental planning policy for Gypsy and Traveller sites had been released.

RESOLVED –

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

(b)  That the instigation of a search for a new site or sites, in accordance with the principles set out at paragraph 3.9 and 3.10 of the submitted report, be approved.

(c)  That a further report be submitted to the Board in due course when the new governmental planning policy for Gypsy and Traveller sites had been released.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor A Carter required it to be recorded that he voted against the decisions taken above, whilst Councillor Golton required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on these matters).

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services describing the representations made in relation to the consultation on the proposals for expansion of primary provision from September 2012, and asking the Executive Board to make a final decision on the proposals.

Further to Minute No. 203, 30^th March 2011, the Director of Children’s Services submitted a report outlining the representations received as part of the consultation exercise on the proposals for expansion of primary provision from September 2012 and seeking a final decision on the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the capacity of Wykebeck Primary School be expanded from 315 places to 420 places on its existing site.

(b)  That the former South Gipton Community centre site be earmarked for the expansion of Wykebeck Primary School.

(c)  That the capacity of Bracken Edge Primary School be expanded from 315 places to 420 places on its existing site.

(d)  That the age range of Carr Manor High School be changed from 11-18 to 4-18 years, with a reception admission limit of 30, with land next to the school being used for the primary provision.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services describing the requirement for primary school places in the academic year 2013/14 and beyond, presenting a range of proposals to address the identified need, and seeking permission from the Executive Board to consult on some specific options and identifying further work required on others, prior to any statutory consultation.

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report detailing the requirement for primary school places in the academic year 2013/14 and beyond, presenting a range of proposals to address the identified need and seeking permission to consult on some specific options and identifying further work required on others, prior to any statutory consultation.

Members received responses to their specific enquiries regarding particular  school sites or geographical areas of Leeds.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That it be noted that Bramley St Peter’s will be expanded from 315 to 420 places, with no requirement for a statutory process.

(b)  That formal consultation to expand existing schools be approved, as follows:-

i)  Rawdon St Peter’s Primary School from 315 to 420 places,

ii)  Morley Newlands Primary School from 420 to 630 places;

(c)  That approval be given to the undertaking of formal consultation on two new 420 place primary schools, to be established on the site of the former South Leeds Sports Centre and on land at Florence Street, with the sites being earmarked for this purpose.

(d)  That further reports detailing the outcomes of these consultation exercises, and any further proposals to cover any remaining shortfall, be submitted to the Board at a later date.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:   29^TH JULY 2011

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  5^TH AUGUST 2011 (5.00 P.M.)

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00 p.m. on 8^th August 2011)