Meeting documents
Cabinet
Thursday, 14th March 2002
Present
Chair
S Foulkes
Vice-Chair
PL Davies
Councillors
DW Christian, George Davies, PJ Hackett, JM Jackson, AM McLaughlin, M McLaughlin, H Smith, AP Witter
Ex officio:
JE Green, J Hale, SE Kelly, Mrs P M Williams
Index to Minutes
- Minute 619 - MINUTES
- Minute 620 - FINANCE, BEST VALUE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: PERIODIC ELECTORAL REVIEW - BOUNDARY REVIEW SUBMISSION
- Minute 621 - FINANCE, BEST VALUE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: MEMBERS' ALLOWANCES - REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT PANEL
- Minute 622 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: CHARGING POLICY FOR FOOD WITHIN DAY CENTRES
- Minute 623 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: QUALITY PROTECTS PROGRAMME: MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN (MAP) IV 2002 - 2003
- Minute 624 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE YOUTH OFFENDING TEAM
- Minute 625 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: CHILDREN LEAVING CARE
- Minute 626 - CENTRAL SERVICES: APPROVED DUTIES
- Minute 627 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: NEW WALLASEY SRB INITIATIVE - FINANCIAL MATTERS
- Minute 628 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: CONTRACT WITH EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
- Minute 629 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: ESTABLISHMENT OF CONSULTANTS POSTS - INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY AND TEACHING AND LEARNING FOUNDATION STRANDS OF KEY STAGE 3 STRATEGY
- Minute 630 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHEME FOR FINANCING SCHOOLS
- Minute 631 - CULTURE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES: CULTURAL STRATEGY - "ENRICHING OUR LIVES"
- Minute 632 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE - DOWNHAM ROAD/WHITFIELD LANE, HESWALL
- Minute 633 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - BEACONSFIELD ROAD, NEW FERRY
- Minute 634 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - ASQUITH AVENUE, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 635 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - SEVERN STREET/TWEED STREET, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 636 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - BYERLEY STREET, SEACOMBE
- Minute 637 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - PASSAGEWAY, ST. NICHOLAS ROAD TO MALVERN ROAD, WALLASEY VILLAGE
- Minute 638 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - PASSAGEWAY, MARKET STREET TO HADFIELD AVENUE, HOYLAKE
- Minute 639 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: STREET NAMING
- Minute 640 - EXEMPT INFORMATION - EXCLUSION OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
- Minute 641 - CENTRAL SERVICES COBDEN PLACE, ROCK FERRY, CLEARANCE AREA
- Minute 642 - CENTRAL SERVICES: ST. PETER'S COURT, ROCK LANE EAST, ROCK FERRY
- Minute 643 - CENTRAL SERVICES: LAND AT PARK ROAD EAST, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 644 - CENTRAL SERVICES: LAND ADJACENT TO PRENTON VILLAGE ROAD, PRENTON
- Minute 645 - CENTRAL SERVICES: WIRRAL INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PARK - PHASE 1D
- Minute 646 - CENTRAL SERVICES: ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CONTRACT - GREEN ELECTRICITY
- Minute 647 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: GREYSTOKE/MOLYNEUX ESTATES - ADDITIONAL WORKS (PHASE 1) AND PROCUREMENT PROPOSALS (PHASE 2)
- Minute 648 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: EGERTON HOUSE, TOWER ROAD, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 649 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: PROPOSED HOTEL DEVELOPMENT - FEASIBILITY STUDY
- Minute 650 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: HERITAGE SKILLS PROJECT
- Minute 651 - ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING STRATEGY: MERSEYSIDE INFORMATION SERVICE
- Minute 652 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: PROPOSED PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING INITIATIVE - AREA BOUNDED BY CLEVELAND STREET, LYNAS STREET, CORPORATION ROAD AND LIVINGSTONE STREET
- Minute 653 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: FORMER TENANT ARREARS - WRITE OFFS
- Minute 654 - NEW BRIGHTON FUN FAIR
Minute 619 - MINUTES
Minute Text :
The Borough Solicitor & Secretary reported that minutes from the meetings held on 17 and 31 January 2002, which had been submitted direct to the Council, had been approved subject to the following amendments:
(a) Minute 515 (17/1/02) (Telecommunications Mast, Greenhouse Farm, Arrowe Road, Greasby) -
Delete the recommendation and substitute: "That the Council agrees to seek authority to serve a Discontinuance Order";
(b) Minute 516 (31/1/02) (Best Value Performance Plan Summary) -
Delete the recommendation and substitute:
"(1) That the views of the Finance, Best Value and Construction Services Select Committee be noted.
(2) Council notes that:
(a) under the sections headed 'What local people have told us' (p. 5), the report says 'People are least satisfied with activities . . . and the condition of roads and footpaths';
(b) the report goes on to say 'Section 2 describes some of the actions we are taking to address these issues.';
(c) in Section 2 (p. 25) there is no indication anywhere that the main action taken by the Labour-controlled Council was to reduce the funds available for roads and footpaths, and that this was done after the public survey results were known, thereby making a bad situation worse;
and, therefore, Council believes that in the interests of transparency and honesty the report should be amended to provide an explanation as to why the Council's response to public concern and the Best Value Inspection Service report (that the service was 'poor and unlikely to improve') was to significantly reduce the funding and thereby make the service worse.
(3) That the draft Best Value Performance Plan be further amended by the addition of the following information:
(a) where appropriate, comparisons of actual spend against Wirral's Standard Spending Assessment;
(b) an explanation as to why, given the high levels of public concern, £500,000 was removed from the highway maintenance revenue budget;
(c) data on how Wirral compares with comparative Councils to show more clearly Wirral's relative position.
(4) That the Chief Executive may make last-minute decisions on minor details relating to presentation and content.
(5) That the staff be congratulated on their achievements in those areas where improved performance has been achieved."
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the amendments be noted
Minute 620 - FINANCE, BEST VALUE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: PERIODIC ELECTORAL REVIEW - BOUNDARY REVIEW SUBMISSION
Minute Text :
The Borough Solicitor & Secretary reported on the progress made by the three political parties since her previous report was submitted to the Cabinet on 13 December 2001 and approved by the Council on 17 December. That report proposed that a Council size of 66 members be submitted to the Local Government Commission in respect of Wirral's boundary review. Since that time it had not been possible to obtain agreement on a number of issues relating to ward boundaries, though there were a number of points of common ground, and each group submitted their own set of proposals for the revision of ward boundaries.
The Chair stated that, having examined the proposals of the other two main parties, the Cabinet would have difficulty in supporting them, so that all three submissions would have to be put before the Council. The Borough Solicitor & Secretary emphasised that, if agreement were not reached at the Council meeting on 19 March, each set of proposals could be forwarded to the Boundary Commission but each would have to be supported by reasons justifying the proposals.
A decision was required to enable the Council to make a submission to the Boundary Commission in connection with the boundary review.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the Council be requested to consider the proposals submitted by each of the three main political groups, with a view to making a recommendation to the Boundary Commission in connection with the boundary review.
(2) That, if the Council is unable to agree a single submission, the Borough Solicitor & Secretary be granted delegated authority to finalise the details of each group's submission in consultation with the Party Leaders, and the attention of the Boundary Commission be drawn to those points of agreement within the submissions.
(3) That Richard Lewis, Principal Forward Planning Officer, and the Borough Solicitor & Secretary be thanked for their work in assisting members to prepare their submissions.
Minute 621 - FINANCE, BEST VALUE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: MEMBERS' ALLOWANCES - REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT PANEL
Minute Text :
The Borough Solicitor & Secretary submitted and reported upon the report of the Independent Panel on Members' Allowances and sought instructions with regard to the adoption of a members' allowances scheme for the municipal year 2002/03. Since the Panel had presented its report the Local Democracy Working Party had suggested some minor changes without diverging from the principles behind the report. The result was a recommended total annual budget for basic and special responsibility allowances of £761,450, an increase of 2.2% over that for 2001/2002. That total provided for a basic allowance of £8,500, a notional allowance for each member's miscellaneous expenses of £500, special responsibility allowances based on multiples of the basic allowance (which included recognition of the role of the Chairs of scrutiny committees) and an allocation of £7,500 from which carers' allowances could be paid.
The Chair stated that there was still some debate over the final wording of the allowances scheme and proposed that the Local Democracy Working Party, meeting later that evening, should consider the matter further.
A decision was required to enable appropriate recommendations to be made to the Council with regard to members' remuneration in 2002/03.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That, subject to the minor changes proposed by the Local Democracy Working Party and to (2) below, the report of the Independent Panel on Members' Allowances be accepted.
(2) That the Borough Solicitor & Secretary be granted delegated authority to formulate any further amendments to the revised scheme of members' allowances, as set out in the report now submitted, that may be proposed by the Local Democracy Working Party, and to submit them to the Council for approval.
(3) That a letter of thanks on behalf of the three Party Leaders be sent to the members of the Independent Panel expressing appreciation for their hard work and the consideration they have given to this matter.
(4) That the Borough Solicitor and Secretary make all necessary arrangements to publicise the Independent Panel's report and the subsequent adoption of the members' allowances scheme in acordance with the appropriate regulations.
Minute 622 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: CHARGING POLICY FOR FOOD WITHIN DAY CENTRES
Minute Text :
The Directors of Social Services and of Finance sought approval to introduce a flexible charging arrangement for the provision of food within local authority day centres for adults with special needs. The proposals followed discussions with service users about how food could be provided that offered a choice of menu while being both nutritious and economical.
A decision was required in order to establish charging arrangements for food that would assist the delivery of more flexible services in future.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the introduction of a flexible charging policy for food within local authority day centres be approved as an interim measure pending a comprehensive departmental report on non-residential charges in 2003.
(2) That the services users involved be thanked for their contribution to determining the new charging arrangements.
Minute 623 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: QUALITY PROTECTS PROGRAMME: MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN (MAP) IV 2002 - 2003
Minute Text :
The Directors of Social Services and of Personnel & Policy reported upon posts that it was proposed to create in 2002/03 (set out in the appendix to their report) to support the Quality Protects Management Action Plan IV, which had been approved by the Cabinet on 17 January 2002 (minute 491 refers).
They explained that the Quality Protects programme had been designed as a time limited modernisation and improvement programme to transform services to children; it had begun in 1999 and the final grant payment (conditional upon the approval of a satisfactory MAP) would be made in 2003 for the forthcoming year.
A decision was required to approve formally the Quality Protects Management Action Plan and to establish the requisite posts.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the Quality Protects Management Action Plan IV be formally approved, and the establishment of the posts identified in the appendix to the joint report be agreed.
Minute 624 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE YOUTH OFFENDING TEAM
Minute Text :
The Directors of Social Services and of Personnel & Policy reported on the latest developments taking place in the Wirral Youth Offending Team in several key areas, relating to (i) the implementation of Referral Orders from April 2002, (ii) developments in restorative justice activity and (iii) the development of services to young people who offended where substance misuse was a contributory factor. They sought approval to create three additional posts and to redesignate and/or regrade two existing posts to take account of increased duties and responsibilities.
The total annual cost of the new posts and the regradings would be £101,597, for which dedicated funding was already available from the Youth Justice Board.
A decision was required to ensure that Youth Justice Board funds were allocated effectively to take forward the changes required by recent guidance and new initiatives.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the creation of three new posts - one Administrative Manager (YOT), Scale 6, and two Substance Misuse Workers (YOT), Grade PO1, be approved.
(2) That the changes to the following posts be approved:
(a) YOT Manager - re-align from Grade PO14 to Grade EPO6;
(b) redesignate the post of Social Services Support Worker to YOT Worker and regrade from Res.C Bar A/B to Grade PO1.
(3) That the joint report be referred to the Social and Health Services Select Committee for information.
Minute 625 - SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES: CHILDREN LEAVING CARE
Minute Text :
The Director of Social Services reported upon the implications of the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000, informed the Cabinet of progress made with regard to its implementation and sought approval of the Children Leaving Care Policy for the support of young people leaving care.
A decision was required to ensure that the policies required to implement the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 were approved.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the report be noted.
(2) That the Children Leaving Care Policy Statement be approved.
Minute 626 - CENTRAL SERVICES: APPROVED DUTIES
Minute Text :
The Cabinet considered a request for the Pensions Committee to be represented at the PIRC Annual Conference, to be held in London on 26 March 2002.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That attendance by the Chair and party spokespersons, or their nominees from the Pensions Committee, at the PIRC Annual Conference, to be held in London on 26 March 2002, be approved for the payment of conference fees and allowances.
Minute 627 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: NEW WALLASEY SRB INITIATIVE - FINANCIAL MATTERS
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/ Director of Planning & Economic Development report upon recommendations from the New Wallasey Partnership Board in respect of (i) a strategic site investigation to inform the proposed acquistion of a site in the Wallasey Docklands, (ii) a training and confidence-building project for the unemployed and those excluded from the labour market in Seacombe, (iii) the review of the New Wallasey Regeneration programme, and (iv) additional financial support for an existing project to extend the boathouse at a local rowing club in Wallasey Docklands. All of the matters nad been approved by the Partnership Board on 8 February 2002.
A decision was required to enable the New Wallasey Partnership to allocate SRB funds to the four projects.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the allocation of SRB funding to the following projects be approved as recommended by the New Wallasey Partnership Board:
Strategic Site Investigation (Limekiln Lane) - Docklands Programme - £25,000
First Steps - Learning for Life Programme - £27,408
New Wallasey Regeneration Review - Management and Administration - £4,995
Wirral Rowing Club - Community Determined Initiatives Programme - £30,000
Footnote :
Councillor Hackett declared an interest in this matter and took no part in the discussion.
Minute 628 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: CONTRACT WITH EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
Minute Text :
The Directors of Education & Cultural Services and of Personnel & Policy sought approval to continue and extend the provision of the Gateway Support Programme. They explained that the current programme comprised one full-time youth worker through a contract with Employment Services, and approval was required to establish two further posts to extend the contract to provide additional support to over-25's and young people who were leaving care and moving into the employment of the local authority.
The total additional cost would be £72,731, for the salaries and on-costs relating to the two new posts and a shortfall in funding of £16,550 for the existing post. That would be met from fee income for each client and a contribution from the Planning & Economic Development budget.
A decision was required to enable the Director of Education and Cultural Services to issue contracts to staff affected by the New Deal contract.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the establishment of a post of Senior Youth Worker, Scale JNC 3 (1-4) and a second post on Scale JNC 2 (2-10) be approved, and the matter be reviewed before 31 March 2003.
(2) That it be noted that this proposal is based upon the New Deal contract being awarded to the Youth and Community Service.
Minute 629 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: ESTABLISHMENT OF CONSULTANTS POSTS - INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY AND TEACHING AND LEARNING FOUNDATION STRANDS OF KEY STAGE 3 STRATEGY
Minute Text :
The Directors of Education & Cultural Services and of Personnel & Policy requested approval to establish the posts of Consultant for the Information and Communications Technology and Consultant for Teaching and Learning Foundation strands of the Key Stage 3 Strategy, as part of the Council's response to the requirements of the strategy.
The total annual cost of the posts would be £84,791, which would be met from the Standards Fund.
A decision was required to fulfil the Local Education Authority's responsibility for implementing the National Key Stage 3 Strategy.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That Consultant posts be established in the Information and Communications Technology and Teaching and Learning Foundation strands of the Key Stage 3 Strategy, on Grade EPO2.
(2) That the funding for the posts be reviewed after two years.
Minute 630 - EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHEME FOR FINANCING SCHOOLS
Minute Text :
The Director of Education & Cultural Services submitted and reported upon the Direction from the Secretary of State for Education & Skills, which had been issued to all LEAs in England, requiring the Council to make an amendment to the Wirral Scheme for Financing Schools, the effect of which would be to include within the Scheme a requirement on all schools to deduct at source from teachers' salaries the teacher's contribution to the General Teachers' Council.
A decision was required to comply with the Direction from the Secretary of State.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the Wirral Scheme for Financing Schools be amended as directed by the Secretary of State for Education and Skills.
Minute 631 - CULTURE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES: CULTURAL STRATEGY - "ENRICHING OUR LIVES"
Minute Text :
The Director of Education & Cultural Services presented and reported upon Wirral's recently-completed Cultural Strategy ("Enriching our Lives"), together with summary, background document and appendices. The report and Cultural Strategy had been considered and endorsed by the Culture and Community Services Select Committee on 8 January 2002 (minute 37 refers).
A decision was required to approve the Wirral Cultural Strategy.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the views of the Culture and Community Services Select Committee be noted, and the Wirral Cultural Strategy ("Enriching Our Lives"), as now submitted, be approved.
(2) That the officers responsible for the preparation of the document, in particular Boo Stone, Cultural Development Officer, be congratulated on their work.
Minute 632 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE - DOWNHAM ROAD/WHITFIELD LANE, HESWALL
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval for the temporary closure of Downham Road North and Whitfield Lane, Heswall, for three months and two months respectively, to allow a major gas main renewal scheme to progress.
A decision was required to enable work for the renewal of the gas main to take place.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given to advertise the temporary closure of Downham Road North, Heswall, for a three month period with effect from 16 March, 2002 and Whitfield Lane, Heswall, for a period of two months with effect from 22 July, 2002.
Minute 633 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - BEACONSFIELD ROAD, NEW FERRY
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence the legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of adopted footpath leading from Beaconsfield Road to New Chester Road, New Ferry.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of adopted footpath, in order to facilitate redevelopment of the adjacent site.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given for the commencement of the closure procedures under Section 257 Town and Country Planning Act 1990 for the closure of a section of adopted footpath leading from Beaconsfield Road to New Chester Road, New Ferry, subject to the granting of planning consent.
Minute 634 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - ASQUITH AVENUE, BIRKENHEAD
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence the legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of unadopted passageway in Asquith Avenue, Birkenhead.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of unadopted passageway in order to deter anti-social behaviour.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given for the commencement of the closure procedures under Section 257 Town & Country Planning Act 1990 in respect of the section of unadopted footpath in Asquith Avenue, Birkenhead, indicated on the plan accompanying the Director's report, subject to the granting of planning consent.
Minute 635 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - SEVERN STREET/TWEED STREET, BIRKENHEAD
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence the legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of adopted highway at Severn Street and Tweed Street, Birkenhead.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of adopted highway following the demolition of the properties formerly served by the highway.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given for the commencement of the closure procedures under Section 116 of the Highways Act 1980 in respect of the section of adopted highway at Severn Street and Tweed Street, Birkenhead, indicated on the plan accompanying the Director's report.
Minute 636 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - BYERLEY STREET, SEACOMBE
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of adopted highway known as Byerley Street, Seacombe.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of adopted highway that was considered no longer to be necessary following demolition of the adjacent properties.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given for the commencement of the closure procedures under Section 116 of the Highways Act 1980 in respect of the section of adopted highway known as Byerley Street, Seacombe, indicated on the plan accompanying the Director's report.
Minute 637 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - PASSAGEWAY, ST. NICHOLAS ROAD TO MALVERN ROAD, WALLASEY VILLAGE
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence the legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of adopted passageway at St Nicholas Road, Wallasey Village.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of adopted passageway in order to deter anti-social behaviour.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That approval be given for the commencement of the closure procedures under Section 257 Town and Country Planning Act 1990, in respect of the section of adopted passageway at St Nicholas Road, Wallasey Village, indicated on the plan accompanying the Director's report, subject to the granting of planning consent
Minute 638 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: PROPOSED HIGHWAY CLOSURE - PASSAGEWAY, MARKET STREET TO HADFIELD AVENUE, HOYLAKE
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to commence the legal procedures for the permanent closure of a section of unadopted passageway running between Market Street and Hadfield Avenue.
A decision was required to enable the permanent closure of a section of unadopted passageway in accordance with a request by a local business.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That in view of the comments now made this matter be deferred for further information.
Minute 639 - TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE: STREET NAMING
Minute Text :
The Director of Highway & Engineering Services requested approval to the proposed naming of four new roads in the Borough.
A decision was required to allocate names to the new roads.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the names for four new roads on a new development off Noctorum Way, Noctorum, be as follows: Knightsbridge Court, Balmoral Grove, Dorchester Park and Hampton Chase.
Minute 640 - EXEMPT INFORMATION - EXCLUSION OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
Minute Text :
The Cabinet was advised that the remaining items on the agenda involved exempt information..
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That, under section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined by the relevant paragraphs of Part I of Schedule 12A to that Act.
Minute 641 - CENTRAL SERVICES COBDEN PLACE, ROCK FERRY, CLEARANCE AREA
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported that the Cobden Place, Rock Ferry, Clearance Area had been approved by the Cabinet on 12 July 2001 and authorised the acquisition by agreement of the 32 properties included in the scheme. To date, authorisation had been given for the acquisition of 20 properties, and terms had been provisionally agreed for the purchase of a further property, 26 Grenville Road, Rock Ferry.
A decision ws required to authorise the acquisition of the property for clearance.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the property, 26 Grenville Road, Rock Ferry, be acquired upon the terms now reported.
Minute 642 - CENTRAL SERVICES: ST. PETER'S COURT, ROCK LANE EAST, ROCK FERRY
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported that the Council had disposed of an area of land in Rock Lane East, Rock Ferry, to Merseyside Improved Housing and the site currently formed part of the flat development, St Peters Court. The sale had included a covenant precluding a sale in excess of £11,500 (plus an additional sum in respect of any subsequent improvement); it also included a pre-emption agreement which gave the Council the opportunity to acquire the property on the same basis.
The Housing Association had requested that the conditions be removed and terms had been provisionally agreed to that end.
A decision was required to enable the covenant and the pre-emption agreement to be removed.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the covenant and pre-emption agreement in respect of St Peter's Court, Rock Ferry, be removed upon the terms now reported.
Minute 643 - CENTRAL SERVICES: LAND AT PARK ROAD EAST, BIRKENHEAD
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported that the site in question, which was located on Park Road East on the perimeter of Birkenhead Park and comprised 0.23 hectare, had been declared surplus to requirements by the former Property Services Committee, and the Cabinet was advised of the results of the subsequent marketing exercise.
A decision was required to obtain authority for the sale of the site.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the site at Park Road East, Birkenhead, be sold to the highest bidder upon the terms reported, whilst noting that the proposed use will require planning permission.
Minute 644 - CENTRAL SERVICES: LAND ADJACENT TO PRENTON VILLAGE ROAD, PRENTON
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported the offers received in connection with the proposed sale of land at Prenton Village Road, Prenton, which had been declared surplus to requirements by the Cabinet on 18 January 2001.
A decision was required for the disposal of an area of land for which the Authority had no requirement, disposal of which would provide a capital receipt.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the land at Prenton Village Road, Prenton (as shown on the plan now submitted) be sold to the highest bidder upon the terms now reported.
(2) That, in the event of the highest bidder not proceeding, the Director of Property Services be authorised to negotiate with other interested parties to conclude a sale on the best terms possible, subject to a further report to Cabinet at the earliest opportunity thereafter.
Minute 645 - CENTRAL SERVICES: WIRRAL INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PARK - PHASE 1D
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported that a new road was to be built as Phase 1D of Wirral International Business Park, Bromborough, with the intention of bringing forward land for development. The route would pass over land in private ownership, and the Director reported on the nominal consideration agreed for the purchase of part of the land required.
A decision was required to enable the land to be purchased for new road construction.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the land required for new road construction at the Wirral International Business Park, Bromborough (as shown on the plan now submitted), be purchased for the nominal consideration now reported.
Minute 646 - CENTRAL SERVICES: ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CONTRACT - GREEN ELECTRICITY
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Property Services reported that an early renewal offer had been sought in an effort to obtain a quantity of "green" electricity for the over-100 kilowatt electricity supply contract, at a time when there were limited amounts of renewable energy available in the market place and in order to reduce the risk of contract price increases closer to contract renewal. The offer would provide 30% of the electricity from a renewable source (reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1,100 tonnes per year) and reduce the overall cost of the contract by 11% for a period of two years from 1 October 2002.
A decision was required to allow the early renewal of that element of the electricity supply contract to include 30% "green" electricity, with a reduction in the overall cost of the contract.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the offer for the supply of "green" electricity be accepted upon the terms now reported, and the contract for the supply of over-100 kilowatt electricity be extended for a further period of two years from 1 October 2002.
Minute 647 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: GREYSTOKE/MOLYNEUX ESTATES - ADDITIONAL WORKS (PHASE 1) AND PROCUREMENT PROPOSALS (PHASE 2)
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Directors of Housing & Environmental Protection and of Property Services requested approval to waive Standing Order 37 in order to authorise the procurement of the Phase 2 contract for Greystoke/Molyneux Estate as a partnering scheme with Bramall Construction Ltd, who were already carrying out the Phase 1 contract on the estate. In accordance with Standing Order 50(2), the Cabinet was also asked to approve the addition of underpinning and foundation works, together with external works to five more blocks of flats, as part of the Phase 1 scheme.
A decision was required to enable procurement of the Phase 2 contract to be progressed and to maintain continuity on site between the 2 phases, thereby minimising disruption to residents.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That Standing Order 37 be waived.
(2) That, in accordance with Standing Order 50 (2), the proposal to add foundation works and external works, based upon existing rates, for five further blocks of flats by way of a variation to the existing Phase 1 contract with Bramall Construction Ltd be approved.
(3) That staff in the Housing and Environmental Protection and Property Services Departments be instructed to continue consultations with the residents on the estate and report the outcome of this process.
(4) That the Director of Property Services proceed with negotiations with Bramall Construction Ltd and report back to the Cabinet on the outcome of this process, the report to contain details of the guaranteed maximum price for the Phase 2 scheme and a request that the appointment of Bramall Construction Ltd be confirmed as the Council's partner for the Phase 2 Contract.
(5) That the Director of Property Services be instructed to seek all necessary statutory approvals for the scheme, including any necessary footpath closures.
Minute 648 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: EGERTON HOUSE, TOWER ROAD, BIRKENHEAD
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 8 and 9, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/ Director of Planning & Economic Development and the Director of Property Services reported upon the offer to transfer free of charge the freehold interest in Egerton House, Tower Road, Birkenhead, from CEWTEC Limited and Wirral Business Enterprises Limited to the Council, subject to an immediate lease back to a new company to be called Egerton House Limited which was to be formed for the purpose of managing the buildings and business centre there and at the Cavendish Business Centre.
A decision was required to formally accept the proposal to acquire the freehold of a commercial building.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That the Borough Solicitor and Secretary be authorised to complete the transfer to the Council of the freehold estate in Egerton House and simultaneously to accept a surrender of Cavendish Business Centre and grant two leases to the new company, one of Egerton House and the other of the Cavendish Business Centre, upon the terms now reported.
Footnote :
Councillors Hackett and Hale declared a non-pecuniary interest in this matter.
Minute 649 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: PROPOSED HOTEL DEVELOPMENT - FEASIBILITY STUDY
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 5 and 7, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/ Director of Planning & Economic Development reported upon a proposed contribution to a study, commissioned by a developer which would examine the viability of securing a significant hotel development in West Wirral.
A decision was required to authorise expenditure on the initiative, the cost of which could be met from the Planning & Economic Development budget.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That a contribution by the Council to the costs of the feasibility study be approved, to a maximum of £8,000 plus VAT and subject to the study proceeding to the second phase.
(2) That the need to take account of public opinion and in particular the views of the users of golf courses in the area be noted.
Minute 650 - ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY PLANNING: HERITAGE SKILLS PROJECT
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 5 and 7, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
Further to minute 364 (1/11/01), the Deputy Chief Executive/ Director of Planning & Economic Development reported upon progress in assisting the project. The Chair emphasised the need to take account of the successful outcomes achieved by what was still considered to be a valuable scheme.
A decision was required in order to agree how the project should be developed in the future.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the material differences in the revised financial appraisal of the project, as compared to the forecasts originally provided by Heritage Skills, be noted, and the project continue to be underwritten by the Council under the conditions previously set out in minute 364; and that, in addition, it be made clear that continued financial support from the Council would also be conditional upon the Board and Management of Heritage Skills having sound business practices and processes in place, the main results of which would include the following:
(a) operating a facility that meets all the standards and requirements of training sponsors and relevant bodies;
(b) all statutory and regularity requirements being satisfied;
(c) safeguarding the health and welfare of employees and trainees in the care of Heritage Skills;
(d) fair and consistent management of personnel;
(e) effective management and control of all financial and non-financial resources;
(f) business planning that develops a continuing, sustainable operation without further support from the Council;
(g) the Council's investment being refunded.
(2) That arrangements be developed and put in place that would lead to the Company starting to trade as soon as is practicable and refund the Council's investment (the Council operation, known as the Heritage Skills Project, would cease under these arrangements and all liabilities arising from the operation would be transferred to the Company).
(3) That an approach be made to the Heritage Skills Board to secure additional grant and instigate the strengthening of the financial and managerial arrangements of the operation.
Footnote :
Councillor PL Davies declared a non-pecuniary interest in this matter and withdrew from the meeting.
Minute 651 - ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING STRATEGY: MERSEYSIDE INFORMATION SERVICE
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 7,8 and 12, Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
Further to minute 463 (13/12/01), the Deputy Chief Executicve/ Director of Planning & Economic Development reported on the progress made to conclude the proposed externalisation of the Merseyside Information Service (MIS) to Mott MacDonald Ltd from 1 April 2002. The financial bid made by Mott MacDonald would provide significant cost reductions for all subscribers with no loss of service, and the proposals would satisfy the contractor's obligations under TUPE. The Director also advised of a recent notificaction from Liverpool City Council that it might wish to make certain alternative arrangements.
A decision was required to approve the contractual arrangements.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That, subject to (2), (3) and (4) below, the Council agree to enter into a 5-year contract with Mott MacDonald Ltd for the provision of county-wide information services and other services as prescribed in the Output Specification and to include the Citizens' Panel.
(2) That this decision be subject to the completion of reciprocal Agreements between Wirral and each of the subscriber authorities.
(3) That the Borough Solicitor and Secretary be authorised to execute the contract and all ancillary documentation necessary to finalise the transfer of MIS to Mott MacDonald Ltd.
(4) That the completion of the transfer be conditional on satisfactory clarification of the issues arising from Liverpool City Council's current intention to bring Citizens' Panel services in-house and not to commit to the provision of that service through MIS.
(5) That Andy Wallis, Deputy Director of Planning & Economic Development, and his colleagues be congratulated on their excellent work in bringing this matter to its current stage.
Minute 652 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: PROPOSED PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING INITIATIVE - AREA BOUNDED BY CLEVELAND STREET, LYNAS STREET, CORPORATION ROAD AND LIVINGSTONE STREET
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION Exempt by virtue of paragraphs 7 and 13 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972
Minute Text :
The Director of Housing & Environmental Protection and the Director of Personnel & Policy reported upon proposals, including staffing arrangements, to progress a pilot initiative to respond to increasing abandonment and environmental issues, and requested approval to a series of specific measures to enable implementation. The Chair stressed that the innovative scheme was dependent on external funding which could not be guaranteed for any other area of the Borough at the current time.
A decision was required to enable the initiative to proceed.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the policy principles outlined in paragraph 2.1 of the Directors' report be endorsed.
(2) That, subject to a further report, the provision of financial support through the Housing capital programme, be approved in principle.
(3) That the establishment of a post Technical Officer, Scale 4/5/6, within the Housing and Environmental Protection Department be approved, initially on a three-year basis, at an approximate annual cost of £30,000 including ancillary project costs, to be met from the Housing capital programme.
(4) That, subject to the approval of the Secretary of State, the "Council house discount" proposal and criteria be approved in principle, subject to a further report on its practical application in relation to residents' actual circumstances.
(5) That the award of priority status to those residents requiring re-housing from the Unified Housing Waiting List, be approved in principle, subject to any necessary detailed amendments to the allocations scheme being considered at a future meeting of the Cabinet prior to implementation.
(6) That further reports be submitted to the Cabinet or Select Copmmittee, as appropriate, as details develop.
Minute 653 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: FORMER TENANT ARREARS - WRITE OFFS
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3 of Part I, Schedule 12A, Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Director of Housing & Environmental Proection sought approval to write off former tenant arrears debts, which were recommended to be written off in accordance with agreed practice.
A decision was required to enable irrecoverable debts to be written off.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED -
(1) That the former tenant arrears detailed in the Appendix to the Director's report be written off against the existing HRA provision for bad debts.
(2) That the Director of Finance's approval to write off a number of former tenant arrears debts with a value of less than £600 be noted.
Minute 654 - NEW BRIGHTON FUN FAIR
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of Paragraph 9 of Part I of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Chair agreed to consideration of this matter as urgent other business for the reason specified below.
The Director of Education & Cultural Services sought agreement to an Easter fun fair being held in New Brighton, from 23 March to 7 April 2002, which had the support of local traders and community groups.
An urgent decision was required in order to allow the fun fair to take place over the Easter period.
Minute Decision :
RECOMMENDED - That Michael Wallis Fun Fairs (the highest tenderer) be permitted to operate a fun fair in New Brighton from 23 March to 7 April 2002 on the terms proposed.
(Minutes Published: 15 March 2002)