Meeting documents
Cabinet
Thursday, 7th June 2007
Present
Chair
S Foulkes
Councillors
George Davies, PL Davies, PJ Hackett, SA Holbrook, SE Kelly, M McLaughlin, RK Moon, Jean Quinn
In attendance:
JE Green, Mrs LA Rennie
Apologies
G Gardiner
Index to Minutes
- Minute 46 - MINUTES
- Minute 47 - DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
- Minute 48 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: PRESENTATION ON TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE
- Minute 49 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: TRANSITION FROM CPA - CAA
- Minute 50 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: FINANCIAL MONITORING SUMMARY
- Minute 51 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: CAPITAL MONITORING SUMMARY
- Minute 52 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: SERVICE RE-ENGINEERING SUMMARY
- Minute 53 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: PROJECTED BUDGET 2008-2011
- Minute 54 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: COMPREHENSIVE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT USE OF RESOURCES ACTION PLAN PROGRESS AND CONSULTATION PROPOSALS
- Minute 55 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: BEACON COUNCIL ROUND NINE 2008
- Minute 56 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REVIEW GROUP
- Minute 57 - CULTURE, TOURISM AND LEISURE: WIRRAL PENINSULA – DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A WIRRAL COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE BRAND AND MARKETING CAMPAIGN
- Minute 58 - CULTURE, TOURISM AND LEISURE: DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A CLEAR WIRRAL PACKAGE AND BRAND
- Minute 59 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: EARLY RETIREMENT POLICY FOR TEACHERS
- Minute 60 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHOOLS MEALS PROVISION
- Minute 61 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHOOLS CAPITAL FUNDING 2007/08
- Minute 62 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SATELLITE CHILDREN’S CENTRE SCHEME AT NEW BRIGHTON PRIMARY SCHOOL - SCHEME AND ESTIMATE REPORT
- Minute 63 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: NEW TEACHING BLOCK FOR WEST KIRBY GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR GIRLS - SCHEME AND ESTIMATE REPORT
- Minute 64 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: NEW ARTS BLOCK AND MODIFICATIONS TO THE CITY LEARNING CENTRE AT RIDGEWAY HIGH SCHOOL – TENDER REPORT
- Minute 65 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: PRUDENTIAL BORROWING FAMILY SUPPORT CAPITAL FUND
- Minute 66 - ENVIRONMENT: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CHARGES 2007/2008
- Minute 67 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: PRIDE IN OUR PROMENADES - SEACOMBE TO NEW BRIGHTON
- Minute 68 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: HOSTEL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT GRANT FUNDING FOR BIRKENHEAD YMCA
- Minute 69 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: HM TREASURY – TAX INCENTIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF BROWNFIELD LAND – A CONSULTATION – WIRRAL RESPONSE
- Minute 70 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION ON “A SEA CHANGE - A MARINE BILL WHITE PAPER”
- Minute 71 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: EXTENSION OF ALLEYGATING CONTRACT
- Minute 72 - CORPORATE SERVICES: PROJECT MANAGERS
- Minute 73 - CORPORATE SERVICES: APPROVED DUTIES AND APPOINTMENTS
- Minute 74 - EXEMPT INFORMATION - EXCLUSION OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
- Minute 75 - CORPORATE SERVICES: APPROVAL OF ACQUISITIONS MADE UNDER DELEGATED AUTHORITY
- Minute 76 - CORPORATE SERVICES: UNITED UTILITIES WASTE WATER MANAEGEMENT SCHEMES 99 YEAR LEASES
- Minute 77 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LAND ADJOINING 379 NEW CHESTER ROAD, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 78 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LAND AT CRAVEN STREET, BIRKENHEAD
- Minute 79 - CORPORATE SERVICES: RNLI LIFEBOAT STATION, NORTH PARADE HOYLAKE
- Minute 80 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LEASOWE COMMUNITY HOMES RELAXATION OF RESTRICTIVE COVENANT
- Minute 81 - ANY OTHER URGENT BUSINESS - TELECOMMUNICATIONS MASTS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Minute 46 - MINUTES
Minute Text :
The minutes of the previous meeting, held on 24th May, 2007 had been published.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the minutes be approved and adopted.
Minute 47 - DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Minute Text :
The members of the Cabinet were invited to consider whether they had a personal or prejudicial interest in connection with any of the items on this agenda and, if so, to declare it and state the nature of such interest. The following declarations were made:-
Councillor Pat Hackett - a personal interest in minute 67 (Pride In Our Promenades) due to his membership of the Mersey Waterfront Regional Park.
Councillor George Davies - a personal interest in minute 60 (School Meals Provision) due to his membership of school governing bodies mentioned in the report, and a prejudicial interest in minute 64 (Ridgeway High School Tender Report) due to his appointment of chair of this school's governing body.
Councillor Phil Davies - a personal interest in minute 63 (West Kirby Grammar School for Girls - scheme and estimate) due to his child's attendance at the school,
Councillor Steve Foulkes - a personal interest in minute 57 (Implementation of a Clear Wirral Package and Brand) due to his employment, minutes 60 (School Meals Provision) and 64 (Ridgeway High School Tender Report) due to his membership of school governing bodies mentioned in these reports, and minute 81 (Telecommunications Masts Planning Applications) by virtue of having objected to one of the applications in question.
Councillor Simon Holbrook - a personal interest in minutes 60 (School Meals Provision) and 61 (Schools Capital Funding) due to his membership of school governing bodies mentioned in these reports, and minutes 69 (Tax Incentives for Development of Brownfield Land) and 70 (Marine Bill White Paper) due to his employment.
Minute 48 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: PRESENTATION ON TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE
Minute Text :
Jacqui Roberts, Head of Transformational Change, gave a presentation outlining the work carried out by the transformational change team to date in analysing the existing culture , processes, and systems, and laying the foundations for change management. She reported upon proposals for the further development of the three cornerstone projects - customer access strategy; agile working; and procurement; which were the key enablers for financial process and cultural change. The emphasis was on prioritising plans for short, medium and long term strategies, to drive efficiency savings through better use of IT systems, linking this with staff development and ownership of these systems, to maintain good quality of service provision to Wirral citizens.
The Chair thanked Jacqui Roberts for her presentation and said that it had been very useful in bringing members up to date with current change management developments. He emphasised the need for a co-ordinated approach involving members, chief officers and staff to drive the change management process forward and spread examples of good practice both across the authority and externally.
Councillor Holbrook highlighted the need to clearly communicate the change management vision as widely as possible within the organisation and seek the involvement of staff in this process. He commented that the key to successful implementation would require strong leadership from members and chief officers to advocate the change policies and cascade this information through the organisation to generate interest and commitment from the workforce.
With the permission of the Chair, Councillor Green addressed the meeting. He highlighted some key considerations in the implementation phases of the Efficiency Plan including: the sequencing of staff training to match new developments; staff involvement in the development and ownership of new systems and working practices, and defining the aims and objectives of the business process model to ensure maximum benefits realisation.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the presentation be noted.
Minute 49 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: TRANSITION FROM CPA - CAA
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report outlining changes from the existing performance assessment of local government (CPA) to new comprehensive area assessment (CAA) in 2009. The purpose of the report was to provide an overview of the new performance framework and outline some of the implications for the council and its partners. It also highlighted the need to start identifying and addressing potential issues requiring attention at the earliest opportunity. Key areas of focus were risk assessments, data quality, citizen experience and achieving outcomes through partnership working.
The Audit Commission had published a consultation document relating to the new performance framework, and a draft response was contained in Appendix 1.
Minute Decision :
Resolved -
(1) That the report be noted.
(2) That the proposed response to the consultation document be approved.
Minute 50 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: FINANCIAL MONITORING SUMMARY
Minute Text :
The Director of Finance submitted a report presenting an overview of the financial performance of the Council. The report detailed the key variations for this financial year and provided a summary of the overall implications for the General Fund.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the report be noted.
Minute 51 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: CAPITAL MONITORING SUMMARY
Minute Text :
The Director of Finance reported upon progress being made in delivering the agreed capital programme.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the report be noted.
Minute 52 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: SERVICE RE-ENGINEERING SUMMARY
Minute Text :
The Director of Finance reported upon the progress being made in achieving the service re-engineering savings contained within the budget for 2007/08. Also included were details on the use of the service re-engineering reinvestment budget for 2007/08.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the report be noted.
Minute 53 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: PROJECTED BUDGET 2008-2011
Minute Text :
The Director of Finance submitted a report updating the projected budgets for 2008-2011 to coincide with the period of the Comprehensive Spending Review 2007 (CSR). The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) had stated that, following the CSR, the Local Government Finance Settlement would cover the period from 2008 to 2011 and that local authorities would be expected to budget on a three year basis.
On a motion by the Chair seconded by Councillor Holbrook it was:
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That in view of the fact that:
1. The projected budget shortfall for 2008/09 now stands at £19m, with forecast shortfalls in the following two years of £13m each year.
2. Initial estimates for the Efficiency Plan totalled only £10m a year.
3. It is important that budget decisions, the medium term financial strategy and the revised Corporate Plan are closely aligned together.
4. Member/officer protocols, (including press protocols), need to be reviewed to reflect the reality of a controlling joint administration.
This Cabinet asks:
(a) That new targets are apportioned to each Chief Officer reflecting the figures within the Projected Budget and acknowledging the role of the Efficiency Plan within the Council’s budget.
(b) That the report, which was to be brought to the Cabinet on 20 June be updated as far as possible with the new targets and be taken instead in the first instance as a draft discussion paper to the Cabinet Away Day, where it can be reviewed at length in conjunction with the Corporate Plan before reports are brought to Cabinet.
(c) That the Cabinet Away Day take place as soon after 16 July as is practicable.
(d) That portfolio holders and Chief Officers continue to work on achieving savings and individual reports be brought as necessary in order to progress the budget in a timely fashion.
(e) That in order to reduce the size of Cabinet agendas and allow more time for strategic debate on key issues, the Monitoring Officer is also asked to draw up a draft scheme of delegation for individual portfolio holders for consideration by the Council.
Minute 54 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: COMPREHENSIVE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT USE OF RESOURCES ACTION PLAN PROGRESS AND CONSULTATION PROPOSALS
Minute Text :
The Director of Finance submitted a report providing an update on progress achieved against the Use of Resources (UoR) action plan. This would be assessed in the forthcoming Use of Resources inspection to be undertaken by the Audit Commission and formed part of the Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA).
The report also provided details of proposed changes to the Use of Resources assessments for 2008 onwards which were subject to consultations with local authorities.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the progress in delivering the Use of Resources Action Plan be noted; and
(2) the response to the Audit Commission Use of Resources consultation for 2008 be endorsed.
Minute 55 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: BEACON COUNCIL ROUND NINE 2008
Minute Text :
The Director of Regeneration reported upon the forthcoming Beacon Scheme 2007 Round 9 and requested endorsement of the proposal of the Merseyside Local Transport Plan (LTP) Partnership to submit an application under the Beacon Scheme Round 9, theme of Improving Accessibility. The Merseyside LTP Partnership consisted of Merseytravel and the five local authorities of Liverpool, St Helens, Sefton, Knowsley and Wirral.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the submission of a Partnership Bid for Round Nine Beacon Council status under the theme of Improving Accessibility, by Merseytravel on behalf of the LTP Partnership be endorsed.
Minute 56 - FINANCE AND BEST VALUE: CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REVIEW GROUP
Minute Text :
The Chief Executive reported upon the progress of the Corporate Governance Monitoring Group.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the report be noted; and
(2) a further report be received in two months' time.
Minute 57 - CULTURE, TOURISM AND LEISURE: WIRRAL PENINSULA – DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A WIRRAL COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE BRAND AND MARKETING CAMPAIGN
Minute Text :
Emma Degg, Head of Tourism and Marketing, submitted a report comprising an update on progress regarding the development and implementation of “Wirral Peninsula” – the new coast and countryside marketing brand. This was supplemented by a presentation outlining the aims of the project, the target audience and brand values, key milestones, and an illustration the proposed new marketing brand “Wirral Peninsula.”
The Chair referred to the success of the Open Golf Championship and reported that the televised coverage had provided some unique imagery of Wirral's tourism assets which could be further exploited through the new marketing campaign.
In response to a question from Councillor Hackett regarding the involvement of the private sector, Emma Degg reported that structures were in place for business continuity through the Business Network , Attractions , and Hoteliers groups.
Councillor Holbrook referred to potential marketing opportunities associated with the European Sand Yatching Championship which was being held in Wirral on 16/21 September and televised throughout Europe. He suggested that the Cabinet may also wish to convey its congratulations to the Wirral tourism sector winners at the recent Mersey Partnership Tourism Awards Ceremony.
On a motion by the Chair seconded by Councillor Holbrook it was:-
Minute Decision :
Resolved -
(1) That the work to develop and implement “Wirral Peninsula”, to help market the Borough’s key assets more efficiently and effectively, to both potential and existing visitors, be noted and supported.
(2) That Cabinet's congratulations be conveyed to Wirral's winners at the Mersey Partnership Tourism Awards Ceremony:
• Lynn Taylor, Lady Lever Art Gallery for Outstanding Customer Service
• Peel Hey Country Guest House, Frankby for Bed and Breakfast of the Year
• Hillbark Hotel, Frankby for Small Hotel of the Year
• Open Golf, Hoylake for Best Tourism Experience
Award
Minute 58 - CULTURE, TOURISM AND LEISURE: DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A CLEAR WIRRAL PACKAGE AND BRAND
Minute Text :
Emma Degg, Head of Tourism and Marketing, submitted a report outlining work that was underway to coordinate the diverse range of activities to promote Wirral's as an excellent place to live, work and invest, to ensure a more consistent approach and effective use of resources. This was supplemented by a presentation outlining the background to the development of the new website to create a single customer orientated navigable site and the promotion of a key message "Wirral We're thinking big".
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the work to develop and implement a clear Wirral package and brand, to help market the Borough more efficiently and effectively, to potential investors be noted.
Minute 59 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: EARLY RETIREMENT POLICY FOR TEACHERS
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted and reported upon a revised Early Retirement Policy for Teachers taking into account the changes to the Redundancy Procedure for Schools which was approved by Cabinet on 24th January 2007.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the revised Early Retirement Policy for Teachers be implemented with effect from 1 April 2007.
Minute 60 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHOOLS MEALS PROVISION
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted a report providing an update on:
i) the current position in respect of school meals provision in Wirral schools;
ii) specific issues related to the council’s Metro Catering operation;
ii) national developments and initiatives in respect of school meals;
iii) capital investment in meals facilities.
The report updated the Cabinet on the position since the previous reports in July 2004 and July 2005.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the report be noted.
Minute 61 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SCHOOLS CAPITAL FUNDING 2007/08
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted a report providing a summary of the capital funding available under a number of local and national initiatives and programmes and setting out a draft programme of works in 2007/08 for consideration by the Cabinet . The report also provided an update on the progress of the two major, successful Targeted Capital Bid schemes at West Kirby Grammar School for Girls and Wirral Grammar School for Boys, and a summary of the current position in relation to the new school One School Pathfinder project at Woodchurch High and other main school capital projects.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the individual schemes in the 07/08 departmental Capital Programme be approved;
(2) the various grant and local capital funding sources be noted, including the additional DfES Modernisation “draw down” in 07/08; and
(3) individual schemes be the subject of further scheme and estimate reports where applicable.
Minute 62 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: SATELLITE CHILDREN’S CENTRE SCHEME AT NEW BRIGHTON PRIMARY SCHOOL - SCHEME AND ESTIMATE REPORT
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted a report outlining the work required to provide a Satellite Children’s Centre facility for families of under fives including secure reception area, multi-function room(s), refreshment kitchen, drop in areas and associated accommodation for children’s professionals, and setting out the costs of the scheme.
Cabinet was asked to consider and approve the proposals
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the Scheme and Estimate, as presented, be accepted;
(2) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to seek tenders for the project; and
(3) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to obtain all necessary statutory approvals for the project.
Minute 63 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: NEW TEACHING BLOCK FOR WEST KIRBY GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR GIRLS - SCHEME AND ESTIMATE REPORT
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted a report outlining the work required to provide an additional purpose built teaching block at West Kirby Grammar School for Girls, and setting out the costs of the scheme.
The Cabinet was asked to consider and approve the proposal.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the Scheme and Estimate, as presented, be accepted;
(2) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to seek tenders for the project; and
(3) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to obtain all necessary statutory approvals for the project.
Minute 64 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: NEW ARTS BLOCK AND MODIFICATIONS TO THE CITY LEARNING CENTRE AT RIDGEWAY HIGH SCHOOL – TENDER REPORT
Minute Text :
The Director of Technical Services submitted a report detailing tenders received for this scheme and seeking approval of the lowest tender.
Cabinet at its meeting on 25 April 2006 approved the Schools Capital Funding programme, which included funding for this scheme (minute 584 refers).
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the lowest revised tender in the sum of £557,122.00 submitted by E.J. Horrocks Ltd, of Liverpool be approved, subject to the Contractor developing a satisfactory Construction Phase Safety Plan and completion of contract documentation.
Footnote :
Councillor G Davies declared a prejudicial interest in this matter (see Minute 47) and left the room during its consideration.
Minute 65 - CHILDREN'S SERVICES AND LIFELONG LEARNING: PRUDENTIAL BORROWING FAMILY SUPPORT CAPITAL FUND
Minute Text :
The Director of Children's Services submitted a report seeking approval for funding a scheme to modify residential premises owned by Beechwood Ballantyne to support children in foster care, and allow the children concerned to remain in their current provision. This was proposed under the previously approved Prudential Borrowing Family Support Capital Fund (Cabinet 3rd August 2005).
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That as part of the approved Prudential Borrowing Family Capital Support Fund, a grant of £19,500 be made in respect of the case outlined at paragraph 2.3 of the report, to fund alteration works and this grant be subject to a formal agreement between the Council and the relevant parties.
Minute 66 - ENVIRONMENT: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CHARGES 2007/2008
Minute Text :
The Director of Regeneration submitted a report seeking endorsement of revised charges for various Environmental Health services for 2007/2008. The report followed recommendations from the Director of Finances Group Auditor that Environmental Health Service charges should be reviewed and reported to Cabinet.
The Director also reported upon a proposed amendment to the scheme of delegation to allow him discretion to waive charges for the provision of information under the Environmental Information Regulations in appropriate circumstances.
Minute Decision :
Resolved -
(1) That the revised charges for Environmental Health be endorsed.
(2) That it be a recommendation to the Council that the scheme of delegation be amended to permit the Director of Regeneration to waive charges for the provision of information under the Environmental Information Regulations in appropriate circumstances.
.
Minute 67 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: PRIDE IN OUR PROMENADES - SEACOMBE TO NEW BRIGHTON
Minute Text :
The Director of Regeneration submitted a report providing an update on the £1 million programme of improvements to be started this summer along the Promenade between Seacombe and New Brighton. The works formed part of Mersey Waterfront Regional Park’s Pride in our Promenades project, which was funded by the Northwest Development Agency and the European Objective One programme. It was a condition of both grants that the Council agree to a 10 year Management Plan for the Promenade, requiring a total additional revenue budget of £29,700 per annum plus inflation from financial year 2008/09.
Councillor Hackett referred to the significant investment in the Promenades programme, and reported upon the need for action to prevent the use of unauthorised vehicles on the section of the Promenade between Seacombe and New Brighton.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) proposed improvements to the Seacombe to New Brighton Promenade be welcomed, and the funding and implementation of the 10 year Management Plan prepared by TEP Landscape Architects which is a condition of receiving the £1m capital grant be agreed; and
(2) the building into budget projections for 2008/09 until 2018/19 the sum of £29,700 per annum plus inflation (which will be split £26,130 for the Technical Services Department and £3,570 for the Regeneration Department), to the budgets available to the Directors of Regeneration and Technical Services, in order to meet the provisions of the Management Plan, be agreed.
(3) the Director of Technical Services be requested to provide improved signage to prevent unauthorised vehicles on the promenade and thereby assist Merseyside Police with their enforcement responsibilities.
Minute 68 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: HOSTEL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT GRANT FUNDING FOR BIRKENHEAD YMCA
Minute Text :
The Director of Regeneration submitted a report advising Cabinet of the additional allocation of £115,000 Hostel Capital Improvement Grant funding (HCIP) given to the Council to grant to Birkenhead YMCA for their innovative Maritime Industries Training Programme, which the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG formerly ODPM) had allocated from the HCIP 2006/07 under spend.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the additional allocation of £115,000 HCIP funding be made available to fund Birkenhead YMCA’s Maritime Industries Training Programme, be agreed.
Minute 69 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: HM TREASURY – TAX INCENTIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF BROWNFIELD LAND – A CONSULTATION – WIRRAL RESPONSE
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services reported receipt of a government consultation paper on Tax incentives for the development of brownfield land upon which the views of the Council were requested.
In light of the Council’s commitment to the regeneration of Wirral and the protection of greenfield and Green Belt sites from inappropriate development, Cabinet was recommended to support the proposals in the consultation paper. These included the need to promote the use of land remediation tax relief and to support the identification of derelict land through the National Land Use Database.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That this report forms the basis of the Council’s formal submission on the HM Treasury consultation on Tax Incentives for Development of Brownfield Land.
Minute 70 - REGENERATION AND PLANNING STRATEGY: CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION ON “A SEA CHANGE - A MARINE BILL WHITE PAPER”
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services reported receipt of a government White Paper outlining the scope and content of a proposed Marine Bill upon which comments were invited by 8 June. It followed on from an initial consultation in 2006 (to which Wirral responded) and proposed a new system of Marine Spatial Planning, a new marine Management Organisation, changes to marine consents, fisheries licensing and marine nature conservation. He submitted a report setting out a proposed response to the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the comments set out in section 9 of the Director's report form the basis of the Council’s response to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.
Minute 71 - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SAFETY: EXTENSION OF ALLEYGATING CONTRACT
Minute Text :
The Director of Regeneration submitted a report seeking approval to extend the current alleygating contract with The Lighthouse Project, to complete all alley gate installations on Wirral for a further year.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the extension of the contract for one year with the Lighthouse Project, in accordance with paragraph 4.1 of the Alleygating Contract 2005-07, be approved.
Minute 72 - CORPORATE SERVICES: PROJECT MANAGERS
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking formal approval to a list of officers acting as Project Managers across the Authority.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the list of Project Managers be agreed.
Minute 73 - CORPORATE SERVICES: APPROVED DUTIES AND APPOINTMENTS
Minute Text :
The Cabinet was requested to consider:
(a) any requests for the designation of an approved duty relating to attendance at meetings;
(b) any applications relating to conferences or seminars made in accordance with the procedure approved by Cabinet on 19 February 2004 (minute 534 refers);
(c) any changes in the membership of bodies to which the Council makes appointments.
It was requested that the following matters be designated as approved duties:
(i) Attendance by the Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Lifelong Learning at the National Councillor network for Children’s Services conference in Manchester on 18th July;
(ii) Attendance at a North West Employers induction module for new councillors in Manchester on 18 June ;
(iii) Attendance by the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Inclusion at the Coventry LA – Challenges of Modernising Social Care – a Coventry Perspective (conference). This is being held on Friday 15th June at Coventry TechnoCentre, Coventry University;
(iv) Attendance on a 1:1:1 basis at the 'Igniting Enterprising Ideas'
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That attendance at the above events be designated an approved duty.
Minute 74 - EXEMPT INFORMATION - EXCLUSION OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
Minute Text :
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That, under section 100 (A) (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the remaining 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 (as amended) to that Act.
Minute 75 - CORPORATE SERVICES: APPROVAL OF ACQUISITIONS MADE UNDER DELEGATED AUTHORITY
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report informing Cabinet, in accordance with the “Approved Scheme of Delegation”, of those occasions where delegated authority had been used to acquire various properties in Housing Market Renewal Areas, or in Neighbourhood Renewal Areas.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the acquisition of the properties identified in this report, using delegated authority, be approved.
Minute 76 - CORPORATE SERVICES: UNITED UTILITIES WASTE WATER MANAEGEMENT SCHEMES 99 YEAR LEASES
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services reported upon the provisional terms of two new 99 year lease agreement for two plots of land required for the implementation of waste water management schemes in New Brighton and West Kirby.
Minute Decision :
Resolved -
(1) That approval be given to the grant of a new 99 year lease for a plot of land, shown on plan 1, for the implementation of a waste water management scheme in New Brighton,
(2) That consideration of the proposed lease of a plot of land, shown on plan 2, for the implementation of a waste water management scheme in West Kirby, be deferred for further discussions with United Utilities regarding their requirements for this scheme.
Minute 77 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LAND ADJOINING 379 NEW CHESTER ROAD, BIRKENHEAD
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking consent to the disposal of the Council’s freehold interest in this land to the existing lessee.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the Council’s freehold interest in this land be sold to the current lessee in accordance with the provisionally agreed terms set out in this report.
Minute 78 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LAND AT CRAVEN STREET, BIRKENHEAD
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking authority to declare this site surplus and thereafter offer it in a joint sale at Auction with an adjoining privately owned site. The sale proceeds of the combined sites to be split in a proportion as reported.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That
(1) the site be declared surplus; and
(2) the site be sold at Public Auction as a joint sale with the adjoining privately owned site, subject to a reserve price of at least the minimum agreed value reported, and the agreed split of the capital receipt.
Minute 79 - CORPORATE SERVICES: RNLI LIFEBOAT STATION, NORTH PARADE HOYLAKE
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking authority to amend the area to be included in a lease to the RNLI at North Parade, Hoylake previously approved by The Executive Board on 2nd November 2006.
Minute Decision :
Resolved- That the area of land to be leased to the RNLI adjacent to Hoyle Road Slipway, North Parade, Hoylake, incorporates the area included in planning permission number 2006 7545, after approval is obtained from Government Office for the North West and subject to no objections being received in respect of the statutory notice of disposal of public open space.
Minute 80 - CORPORATE SERVICES: LEASOWE COMMUNITY HOMES RELAXATION OF RESTRICTIVE COVENANT
Exempt :
NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 3, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Deputy Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking authority to the relaxation of a restrictive covenant affecting seven communal sites owned by Leasowe Community Homes to permit their use for communal car parking and landscaped areas.
Minute Decision :
Resolved - That the covenant be relaxed to allow the development of the sites.
Minute 81 - ANY OTHER URGENT BUSINESS - TELECOMMUNICATIONS MASTS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Exempt :
Exempt : NOT FOR PUBLICATION: Exempt by virtue of paragraph 5, Part I, Schedule 12A (as amended), Local Government Act 1972.
Minute Text :
The Chair indicated that he had agreed to accept this matter as urgent to consider the detailed report of the Director of Technical Services and the decision of the Planning Committee upon this matter ( minute 15 - 31/5/07 refers).
On a motion by the Chair seconded by Councillor Holbrook it was:
Minute Decision :
Resolved -
(1) That the decision of the Planning Committee is supported by Cabinet.
(2) That this Cabinet is deeply concerned that the democratic process has been frustrated by a management error. Cabinet calls on the Chief Executive to review the investigation conducted by the Director of Technical Services to ensure that lessons for improving management arrangements are learnt and that any disciplinary action, if deemed necessary, is taken at the appropriate management level.
(3) That the remit of Internal Audit be extended to include an urgent review of planning systems and processes.
(4) That the Chief Executive be asked to report back on these matters to a future meeting of the Cabinet and the Planning Committee.
(Minutes Published: 12 June 2007)