Agenda and minutes

Venue: Council Chamber, Wallasey Town Hall

Items
No. Item

78.

Councillor Walter Smith

Minutes:

The Civic Mayor referred to the recent passing of Councillor Walter Smith and the Council stood for a minute’s silence in tribute to his memory.

79.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Members of the Council are asked to consider whether they have any disclosable pecuniary interests and/or any other relevant interest, in connection with any matter to be debated or determined at this meeting and, if so, to declare it and state the nature of such interest.

 

Minutes:

Name

Item No. and Nature of Declaration

Councillor

Steve Williams

Item No. 11(v) – Notice of Motion (Minute No. 105 refers).

Personal and prejudicial – by virtue of his former profession in Merseyside Police.

Councillor

Phil Davies

Item No. 8 D – Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee - Minutes of 29 June, 2017 (Minute 90 refers).

Personal – by virtue of him being a former Trustee of Callister Youth Club.

 

80.

CIVIC MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

To receive the Civic Mayor's announcements and any apologies for absence.

 

Minutes:

The Civic Mayor noted that apologies had been received from Councillors Eddie Boult, Bill Davies, John Hale, Treena Johnson, Tony Jones, Dave Mitchell and Tracey Pilgrim.

 

The Civic Mayor also informed that she would be hosting a small reception for Members of the Council, and invited Officers, at the conclusion of the evening’s Council meeting.

81.

MINUTES pdf icon PDF 250 KB

To approve the accuracy of the minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 16 October, 2017.

Minutes:

The minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 16 October, 2017 had been circulated to Members.

 

Councillor Janette Williamson referred to minute 54, ‘Leader’s, Executive Members’ and OSC Chairs’ Reports’ and the paragraph beginning:

 

‘Councillor Wendy Clements asked a question of Councillor Janette Williamson…’ and requested that it be amended to read:

 

‘Councillor Wendy Clements commented on the Council Tax exemption for care leavers and asked a question of Councillor Janette Williamson - Cabinet Member for Finance and Income Generation on the part played by scrutiny workshops in budget setting.’

 

Resolved – That the minutes be approved and adopted as a correct record, subject to the amendment above.

82.

PETITIONS pdf icon PDF 388 KB

A.   To receive petitions submitted in accordance with Standing Order 21.

 

B.   The following petition is referred to the Council for consideration in accordance with Standing Order 34 –

 

  A petition of some 3,297 signatories, submitted by Mr Richard Shield, of the Wirral Needs Campaign, asking the Council to oppose all privatisation and cuts to Wirral Council and NHS funding by the Tory Government.

 

The front sheet of the petition is attached and, in accordance with the Petition Scheme, the petition organiser has been invited to address the Council for up to five minutes. The Council should debate the matter for a maximum of 15 minutes before deciding how to respond to the petition.

Minutes:

A.  In accordance with Standing Order 21, the Mayor received petitions submitted by –

 

(i).  Councillor Chris Carubia on behalf of 45 residents objecting to access to Acre Lane development from Meadowside Road, Bromborough.

 

(ii).Councillor Pat Cleary on behalf of 189 residents requesting effective traffic calming measures along the Oxton stretch of Woodchurch Road.

 

B.  The following petition was referred to the Council in accordance with Standing Order 34 (1), having exceeded the threshold of 3000 signatures to trigger a Council debate, in accordance with the Petition Scheme –

 

A petition of some 3,297 signatures, submitted by Mr Shield of the Wirral Needs Campaign, asking the Council to oppose all privatisation and cuts to Wirral Council and NHS funding by the Tory Government.

 

Mr P Shield addressed the Council on behalf of the petitioners.

 

On conclusion of the debate, it was moved by Councillor Phil Davies and seconded by Councillor George Davies that –

 

“This Labour Council has consistently fought against attacks on public services by successive Tory governments since 2010. Council agrees that the return of a Labour government is essential to ensuring we have adequate and fair funding for local government, and in the meantime, Council supports the efforts of the current Labour Administration to ensure priority is given to protecting vulnerable people and communities and protecting front-line public services.

 

Council cannot and does not support the petition entitled ‘Wirral Needs’ on the grounds that the Plan it promotes for 2018/19 would push the authority into a position where it will be unable to set a legal and sustainable budget by failing to address the £61m funding gap. It would also be contrary to Labour Party policy.

 

Council reaffirms its support for delivering the 20 Pledges in the Wirral Plan and believes that we will achieve these goals through the policies and strategies developed and delivered with partner organisations across Wirral and the Liverpool City Region.”

 

An amendment was put by Councillor Ian Lewis, seconded by Councillor Lesley Rennie that –

 

“Council thanks the 3,297 people who have signed the petition organised by the Wirral Needs campaign and welcomes their contribution to the debate

 

Council calls upon the Leader to meet with the petition organisers to discuss the options proposed in more detail and hopes that the Wirral Labour Group will welcome the opportunity to meet with Socialist campaigners in the Borough.”

 

A second amendment was put by Councillor Phil Gilchrist, seconded by Councillor Stuart Kelly that:

 

“Council will prepare a legal budget within the resources known to be available and press the Government to provide additional resources for the needs of Children’s services and the vulnerable.”

 

Prior to the vote on the Conservative amendment, Councillor Blakeley and five Conservative Members rose to request a ‘card vote’.

 

A ‘card vote’ was then taken and the Council divided as follows:

 

For the amendment (19) Councillors T Anderson, B Berry, C Blakeley, D Burgess-Joyce, P Cleary, W Clements, D Elderton, G Ellis, J Green, P Hayes, A Hodson, K  ...  view the full minutes text for item 82.

83.

PUBLIC QUESTIONS

To deal with questions from members of the public, in accordance with Appendix 1 to Standing Orders – up to 30 minutes.

 

Minutes:

Mr J Brace, having given the appropriate notice in accordance with Standing Order 11, asked a question on the subject of the Council’s policy on the filming of public meetings and webcasting.

 

Councillor Moira McLaughlin, Chair of the Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee, responded accordingly.

 

Mr S Jiang, having given the appropriate notice in accordance with Standing Order 11, asked a question on street lighting repairs.

 

Councillor Stuart Whittingham, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, responded accordingly.

84.

LEADER'S, EXECUTIVE MEMBERS' AND CHAIRS REPORTS pdf icon PDF 64 KB

To receive the written reports of the Executive and Policy and Performance Committee Chairs, and to receive questions and answers on any of those reports in accordance with Standing Orders 10(2)(a) and 11.

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Mayor introduced the summary reports from the Leader, Cabinet Members and Policy and Performance Committee Chairs and asked for questions on any of the reports.

 

Councillor Phil Gilchrist asked a question of the Leader, Councillor Phil Davies.

 

Councillor Phil Davies stated in response:

·  Current focus and efforts to develop the Wirral Growth Company had come about as a result of a further £132 million of cuts being forced on the Council as a result of the loss of the revenue support grant from central government. The proposed scheme would generate income for the Council that could be re-invested in the community. Such decisions were vital to the future of the Council, particularly given the pressures faced in key areas such as children’s social care.

 

Councillor Phil Gilchrist asked a question of the Cabinet Member - Housing and Community Safety, Councillor George Davies.

 

Councillor George Davies stated in response:

·  Housing Adaptation Grants continued, with on average 2500 grants being awarded each year. During 2016/17 in the region of 3000 grants had been accessed which had led to the council’s performance target for the current year being raised from 2000 to 2500. There were currently no outstanding requests and a review of the service had been undertaken. A Cabinet Member decision was due shortly which would speed up and streamline the service and use of the discretionary budget. 

 

Councillor Pat Cleary asked a question of the Cabinet Member - Highways and Transport, Councillor Stuart Whittingham.

 

Councillor Stuart Whittingham stated in response:

·  Improvements to the North Bank scheme had considered objections from the Merseyside Cycle campaign.

 

Councillor Chris Blakeley asked questions of the Leader, the Cabinet Member - Transformation, Councillor Angela Davies, the Cabinet Member – Localism and Engagement, Councillor Matthew Patrick and the Cabinet Member – Finance and Income Generation, Councillor Janette Williamson.

 

In response comments included:

 

Councillor Phil Davies

·  Questions on the subject of Strategic Asset Acquisitions, including the Europa Building in Birkenhead, and advice given would be best directed to the Assistant Director: Law and Governance.

Councillor Angela Davies

·  A number of developers were expressing an interest in engaging with the Council as part of the Wirral Growth Company. Due diligence and competitive dialogue was still underway, and the outcome of a preferred deal was expected in 2018.

Councillor Matthew Patrick

·  He was happy to report that he had involvement with the budget engagement plans, and asked if Councillor Janette Williamson could take this opportunity to elaborate further in response to the questioner.

Councillor Janette Williamson

·  The information requested was actually contained in the report, and residents could provide their views through the budget consultation process that would include workshops and public engagement. The invitation to all elected members – regardless of party – to support the process still stood.

 

Councillor Brian Kenny asked a question of the Cabinet Member - Highways and Transport.

 

Councillor Stuart Whittingham stated in response:

·  Taking over direct responsibility for key areas of the maintenance of street lighting, carriageway, footpaths, drainage and pot hole  ...  view the full minutes text for item 84.

85.

MEMBERS' QUESTIONS

To consider Members’ general questions to the Civic Mayor, Executive or Committee Chair in accordance with Standing Orders 10 (2)(b) and 11.

 

Minutes:

In accordance with Standing Order 10(2) the Council had been advised of three questions.

 

Councillor Stuart Kelly asked a question of the Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Phill Brightmore, concerning flooding incidents in Oxton, Claughton and Pensby on 23 July, 2017. Councillor Phill Brightmore responded accordingly.

 

Councillor Phil Gilchrist asked a question of the Leader of the Council, concerning the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority allocation of £272,000 from the pothole action fund. Councillor Phil Davies replied accordingly.

 

Councillor David Burgess-Joyce asked a question of the Leader of the Council in relation to licences for specialist transport providers. Councillor Phil Davies responded accordingly.

86.

MATTERS REFERRED FROM OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEES OR OTHER COUNCIL COMMITTEES pdf icon PDF 67 KB

To consider and determine any references from the Overview and Scrutiny Committees and any other Council Committees.

 

Overview and Scrutiny Committees

 

A.  The Council is advised that the Notice of Motion “Tougher Action of Fly-Tipping” referred from Council at its meeting on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) was considered by the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 30 November, 2017 (minute to follow in supplement). In accordance with Standing Order 7(5) the Council will be asked to consider the recommendation of the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

B.  The Council is advised that the Notice of Motion “Making More Time for Pedestrians” referred from Council at its meeting on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) was considered by the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 29 November, 2017 (minute to follow in supplement). In accordance with Standing Order 7(5) the Council will be asked to consider the recommendation of the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

C.  The Council is advised that the Notice of Motion “Wirral Well-Made Need for Infrastructure Support” referred from Council at its meeting on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) was considered by the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 29 November, 2017 (minute to follow in supplement). In accordance with Standing Order 7(5) the Council will be asked to consider the recommendation of the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee

 

D.  Minutes of the meetings of 29 June and 31 October, 2017.

 

In respect of minute 10 (29/6/17), the Council is requested to:

 

(1)  agree the transfer of Council’s trusteeship of the Callister Youth Club to new Trustees, to avoid a continuation of its conflict of interest over 19 Argyle Street (Birkenhead);

 

(2)  reaffirm Council’s decisions to pay into the bank account of the Trust an annual sum equal to the market rent for 19 Argyle Street (currently estimated to be £14,000);

 

(3)  note the valuation obtained for the Trust’s premises in Slatey Road, Birkenhead but defers any decision on its future disposal or use pending the appointment of new Trustees;

 

(4)  defer any decision on a change to the objects of the Trust pending the appointment of new Trustees.

 

In respect of minute 21 (2) (31/10/17):

 

(2) as well as the apology at (1) above, [this refers to (1) in minute 21] Councillor Reecejones must apologise for her unacceptable behaviour orally at the next meeting of the Council scheduled for 11 December 2017.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

In accordance with Standing Order 7(5), three matters had been referred to the Council by Overview and Scrutiny Committees. Two matters had been referred by the Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee. (See minutes 87 to 90 post).

87.

Committee Referral - Tougher Action on Fly-Tipping

Minutes:

At the meeting of the Council held on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) the Civic Mayor had referred a Notice of Motion ‘Tougher Action of Fly-Tipping’ to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The motion was duly considered at the meeting of the Committee on 30 November, 2017 (minute 30 refers).

 

In accordance with Standing Order 7 (5) the Council was invited to consider the recommendation of the Committee which had resolved that –

 

(1)  the Notice of Motion be noted, and;

 

(2)  the Strategic Commissioner – Environment provide a more detailed report to a future meeting of the Committee.

 

On a motion by Councillor Paul Stuart, seconded by Councillor Steve Foulkes it was:

 

Resolved (57:0) (One abstention) – That the resolution of the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee be agreed.

88.

Committee Referral - Making More Time for Pedestrians

Minutes:

At the meeting of the Council held on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) the Mayor had referred a Notice of Motion ‘Making More Time for Pedestrians’ to the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The motion was duly considered at the meeting of the Committee on 29 November, 2017 (minute 35 refers).

 

In accordance with Standing Order 7 (5) the Council was invited to consider the recommendation of the Committee which had resolved that –

 

The motion be noted and referred to officers in Highways for a more detailed report to be provided on the issue.

 

On a motion by Councillor Mike Sullivan, seconded by Councillor Phil Davies it was:

 

Resolved (57:0) (One abstention) – That the resolution of the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee be agreed.

89.

Committee Referral - Wirral Well-Made Need for Infrastructure Support

Minutes:

At the meeting of the Council held on 16 October, 2017 (minute 68 refers) the Civic Mayor had referred a Notice of Motion ‘Wirral Well-Made Need for Infrastructure Support’ to the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The motion was duly considered at the meeting of the Committee on 29 November, 2017 (minute 32 refers).

 

In accordance with Standing Order 7 (5) the Council was invited to consider the recommendation of the Committee which had resolved that –

 

The motion be referred to Merseytravel and officers in Forward Planning for a report to be brought back to this Committee.

 

On a motion by Councillor Mike Sullivan, seconded by Councillor George Davies it was:

 

Resolved (57:0) (One abstention) – That the resolution of the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee be agreed.

90.

Minutes of the Meetings of Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committees - 29 June and 31 October 2017

Minutes:

The minutes of the Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee from the 29 June and 31 October, 2017 were submitted and the Council were asked, in respect of minute 10 (29 June, 2017) to:

 

(1)  agree the transfer of Council’s trusteeship of the Callister Youth Club to new Trustees, to avoid a continuation of its conflict of interest over 19 Argyle Street (Birkenhead);

 

(2)  reaffirm Council’s decisions to pay into the bank account of the Trust an annual sum equal to the market rent for 19 Argyle Street (currently estimated to be £14,000);

 

(3)  note the valuation obtained for the Trust’s premises in Slatey Road, Birkenhead but defers any decision on its future disposal or use pending the appointment of new Trustees;

 

(4)  defer any decision on a change to the objects of the Trust pending the appointment of new Trustees.

 

With regard to minute 21(2) of 31 October, 2017, Councillor Moira McLaughlin, Chair of the Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee, read out a statement as follows:

 

“Councillors, this is an unusual action that I am taking tonight, but I am doing it as Chair of the Council`s Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee at the request of the committee members, and in response to an extraordinary demonstration of disrespect to both members of the public and to the authority of the Council by an elected member of this Council, Councillor Louise Reecejones.

 

In June of this year Councillor Reecejones was the subject of a Standards hearing when she was found to have used her position as Councillor to damage the reputation and lives of members of the public, and in doing so had shown disrespect to them and was in breach of the Members’ Code of conduct.

 

One of the sanctions imposed was that she be required to make a full written apology to those people she had harmed.

 

In October, the Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee heard that she had failed to comply with any part of the sanctions imposed, that she had been found to have continued the activity which led to the findings of a breach and she had failed to cooperate in an open way with the Council commissioned investigation, and therefore she had further breached the Members’ Code of Conduct.

 

She was given a further 14 days to make the apology, and I understand she has not done that. She was also required to come to Full Council to repeat it to her fellow elected Members.

 

This was an indication of the anger and frustration felt by Committee Members at her actions but also at our lack of ability to impose meaningful sanctions, as a Council, when the behaviour of an elected Member falls so far below that expected by the people who elected us to uphold the Nolan Principals of honesty, integrity, selflessness and leadership.

 

This is an opportunity now for Councillor Reecejones to make some amends for her behaviour so far, and demonstrate the respect for this council that she has so far failed  ...  view the full minutes text for item 90.

91.

VACANCIES pdf icon PDF 58 KB

To receive nominations, in accordance with Standing Order 25(6), in respect of any proposed changes in the membership of committees, and to approve nominations for appointments to outside organisations.

 

1.  Councillor Walter Smith sadly passed away on 9 November, 2017. As a result, the following vacancies have arisen and will require consideration at Council.

 

Committees

 

·  Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny

 

Statutory and Advisory Committees, Working Parties and Panels

 

·  Education Staff Panel

·  Standing Advisory Committee on Religious Education

·  Young People’s Advisory Group

·  Members’ Development Steering Group

 

2.  Appointments to Outside Bodies

 

Leasowe Community Homes (Prima LCH)

Councillor Adrian Jones to be nominated for consideration by Prima LCH as a Director

 

3.  The Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee, at its meeting on 20 November, 2017, considered a report on the appointment of four independent persons to sit on its Committee (minute and report attached). The Council is recommended to approve the appointment of:

 

Mr G Kerr, Mr J R McCosh, Ms Angele Lloyd Prince and Mr A Wilson

 

for a period of four years.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

In accordance with Standing Order 25(6) the Council was requested to deal with the following matters in respect of the membership of committees and appointments to outside organisations.

 

The Civic Mayor referred to the recent sad passing of Councillor Walter Smith and as a result, the following vacancies had arisen which would require consideration. She paid tribute to Councillor Walter Smith for all the work he had undertaken for the Authority and expressed how much the Council would miss him.

 

At the request of the Leader and at the invitation of the Civic Mayor, Councillor Christina Muspratt then addressed the Council and paid a warm and fulsome tribute to her dear friend Councillor Walter Smith, who had always treated all people fairly and decently.

 

Councillors Phil Davies and Ian Lewis also added their tributes.

 

COMMITTEES

 

Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Councillor Jerry Williams replacing former Councillor Walter Smith and Councillor Christina Muspratt replacing Councillor Jerry Williams as deputy.

 

STATUTORY AND ADVISORY COMMITTEES, WORKING PARTIES AND PANELS

 

Education Staff Panel

Councillor Chris Meaden replacing former Councillor Walter Smith and Councillor Julie McManus replacing Councillor Chris Meaden as deputy.

 

Standing Advisory Committee on Religious Education

Councillor Brian Kenny replacing former Councillor Walter Smith and Councillor Tony Jones replacing Councillor Brian Kenny as deputy.

 

Young People’s Advisory Group

Councillor Warren Ward replacing former Councillor Walter Smith.

 

Members’ Development Steering Group

Councillor Brian Kenny replacing former Councillor Walter Smith.

 

Further appointments were requested as follows:

 

·  OUTSIDE BODIES

 

Leasowe Community Homes (Prima LCH)

Councillor Adrian Jones be nominated for consideration by Prima LCH as a Director

 

·  The Standards and Constitutional Oversight Committee, at its meeting on 20 November, 2017 (minute 25 refers), considered a report on the appointment of four independent persons to sit on its Committee and the Council was recommended to approve the appointment of:

 

Mr G Kerr, Mr J R McCosh, Ms Angela Lloyd Prince and Mr A Wilson.

 

Resolved – That all the above appointments and nominations be approved.

 

92.

MATTERS REQUIRING APPROVAL OR CONSIDERATION BY THE COUNCIL pdf icon PDF 94 KB

APPROVAL: To consider any recommendations of the Executive or Council Committees which require the approval or consideration of the Council.

 

CABINET – 6 NOVEMBER, 2017

 

A.  Revenue Monitoring 2017/18 - Quarter 2

(Minute 52 and Cabinet report attached). The Council is requested to approve funding of £350,000 from General Fund Balances in respect of the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in May 2018.

 

B.  Capital Monitoring 2017/18 - Quarter 2

(Minute 53 and Cabinet report attached). The Council is requested to approve the inclusion in the programme of 5 new bids, at an additional capital cost of £2.6 million, and approve the revised Capital Programme of £67.5 million.

 

C.  Treasury Management Mid-Year Report 2017/18

(Minute 54 and Cabinet report attached). The Council is requested to approve the revision to the Council’s Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy in selecting the annuity method within ‘Option 3 Asset Life’ for calculating the MRP.

 

DELEGATED DECISIONS

 

D.  Statutory Register of Brownfield Land

 

(Executive Member Decision form and report attached, the appendices can be viewed on the website here. (Copies can be provided on request)).

 

The Council is recommended to make the necessary amendments to the delegated powers for Planning Committee and the Assistant Director of Environmental Services in the Council’s Constitution to reflect the new requirements set out in recommendations 1, 3 and 4 of the decision.

 

E.  Playing Pitch Strategy

 

(Executive Member Decision form and report attached, the appendices can be viewed on the website here. (Copies can be provided on request)).

 

The Council is recommended to adopt the Assessment Report and Strategy and Action Plan as a material consideration in the determination of planning applications and in other decisions under the Town and Country Planning Acts.

 

OTHER ITEMS REQUIRING APPROVAL OF THE COUNCIL

 

F.  Council is requested to appoint Shaer Halewood, Director of Finance and Investment, as the Council’s Statutory Section 151 Officer.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

In accordance with Standing Order 5(2) six matters had been submitted for approval or consideration by the Council (see minutes 93 to 98 post).

93.

Revenue Monitoring 2017/18 - Quarter 2

Minutes:

The first matter requiring consideration was in relation to funding of £350,000 from General Fund Balances in respect of the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in May 2018, as recommended by the Cabinet at its meeting on 6 November, 2017 (minute 52 refers).

 

On a motion by Councillor Phil Davies, seconded by Councillor George Davies, it was –

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) – That the recommendation contained within minute 52 of Cabinet, be approved.

94.

Capital Monitoring 2017/18 - Quarter 2

Minutes:

The second matter requiring approval was in relation to the inclusion in the capital programme of 5 new bids, at an additional capital cost of £2.6 million, and a revised Capital Programme of £67.5 million as recommended by Cabinet at its meeting on 6 November, 2017 (minute 53 refers).

 

Councillor Phil Davies introduced the motion, seconded by Councillor George Davies.

 

One amendment which had been circulated in advance of the meeting was submitted in accordance with Standing Order 12(1) and (9), as follows:

 

Amendment

 

Proposed by Councillor Stuart Kelly

Seconded by Councillor Alan Brighouse

 

Add to Recommendations (p101)…

 

“Council notes that the 2017/18 capital programme was considered by Cabinet on 20 February 2017 and that the Report (Capital Programme and Financing 2017/20) at paragraph 3.7 stated:

 

3.7 There were a number of bids relating to sports centres, libraries and the Williamson Art Gallery. Pending the outcome of the current review of leisure and cultural services these schemes are not included in the proposed Programme in Table 3. However, details can be found in the Appendix 2.

 

The Capital Programme, therefore, did not include the submissions listed in Appendix 2 of that Report namely:

 

New Capital Bids 2017-20 relating to the leisure and cultural review

Europa Pools refurbishment

Income generation

2,500

Arrowe Park golf improvements

Income generation

650

Tennis Centre refurbishment

Income generation

1,340

Williamson Art Gallery refresh and repair

Maintain Accredited Museum Status, small income increase

350

 

Beechwood Leisure Centre remedial works

Upgrade to ensure sustainability

500

Bebington Central Library refurbishment and repair

Improvements to the building fabric

1,219

Birkenhead Central Library redevelopment and refurbishment

Improvements to the building fabric

467

Wallasey Central Library redevelopment and refurbishment

Improvements to the building fabric

196

 

The full report can be viewed at…

http://democracy.wirral.gov.uk/documents/s50039181/CAPITAL%20PROGRAMME%202017-20%20Final.pdf

 

Council considers that the future Capital Programme review at Quarter 3 should reconsider the bids for other Leisure and Cultural Services schemes submitted but be placed on hold should slippage and re-profiling free up available capital resources.

 

Council is particularly concerned to ensure an early decision with regard to the items submitted by the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum linked to maintaining its Accredited Museum Status.”

 

The amendment was put and lost (22:33) (One abstention).

 

The motion was put and carried (33:22) (One abstention).

 

Resolved (33:22) (One abstention) – That the recommendation contained within minute 53 of Cabinet, be approved.

95.

Treasury Management Mid-Year Report 2017/18

Minutes:

The third matter requiring approval was in relation to the revision to the Council’s Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy in selecting the annuity method within ‘Option 3 Asset Life’ for calculating the MRP as recommended by the Cabinet at its meeting on 6 November, 2017 (minute 54 refers).

 

On a motion by Councillor Phil Davies, seconded by Councillor George Davies, it was –

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) – That the recommendation contained within minute 54 of Cabinet, be approved.

96.

Statutory Register of Brownfield Land

Minutes:

The fourth matter requiring approval was in relation to amendments to the delegated powers for Planning Committee and the Assistant Director of Environmental Services in the Council’s Constitution to reflect the new requirements set out in recommendations 1, 3 and 4 of the Cabinet Member decision.

 

On a motion by Councillor George Davies, seconded by Councillor Phil Davies, it was –

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) – That the recommendation to make the necessary amendments to the delegated powers for Planning Committee and the Assistant Director of Environmental Services in the Council’s Constitution to reflect the new requirements set out in recommendations 1, 3 and 4 of the report, be approved.

97.

Playing Pitch Strategy

Minutes:

The fifth matter requiring approval was in relation to the adoption of the Assessment Report and Strategy and Action Plan as a material consideration in the determination of planning applications and in other decisions under the Town and Country Planning Acts as set out in the recommendation of the Cabinet Member decision.

 

On a motion by Councillor George Davies, seconded by Councillor Phil Davies, it was –

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) – That the Assessment Report and the accompanying Strategy and Action Plan be adopted as a material consideration in the determination of planning applications and in other decisions under the Town and Country Planning Acts.

98.

Statutory Officer Appointment

Minutes:

The sixth matter requiring approval was in relation to the appointment of the Council’s Statutory Section 151 Officer.

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) – That Shaer Halewood, Director of Finance and Investment, be appointed as the Council’s Statutory Section 151 Officer.

99.

Procedural Motion

Minutes:

It was moved by Councillor Ron Abbey, seconded by Councillor Phil Davies and –

 

Resolved – That Standing Order 9(1) be suspended and motions (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) be debated with the guillotine coming into effect after that.

100.

NOTICES OF MOTION pdf icon PDF 113 KB

Notices of motion submitted in accordance with Standing Order 7(1), are attached. They are listed in accordance with Standing Order 7(2), and the full text of each motion is attached. The Mayor, having considered each motion, in accordance with Standing Order 7(4) has decided that they will be dealt with as follows:

 

(i).  National Budget

To be debated.

 

(ii).  Preparing Communities for the Impact of New Development

To be debated.

 

(iii).  Reducing Single-Use Plastic (SUP) in Wirral Council

To be debated.

 

(iv).  Domestic Violence

To be debated.

 

(v).  Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign

To be debated.

 

(vi).  The United Kingdom’s Household Debt Ticking Time-Bomb

 To be debated.

 

(vii).  Economic Viability Assessments from Developers

The Civic Mayor to refer to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

(viii).  Planning Ahead to Use the Community Infrastructure Levy

The Civic Mayor to refer to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Notices of Motion submitted in accordance with Standing Order 7(1) were reported to the Council. The Civic Mayor having considered each motion, in accordance with Standing Order 7(4) had decided that they would be dealt with as follows:

 

(i).  National Budget

  To be debated.

 

(ii).   Preparing Communities for the Impact of New Development

  To be debated.

 

(iii).  Reducing Single-Use Plastic (SUP) in Wirral Council

  To be debated.

 

(iv).   Domestic Violence

  To be debated.

 

(v).   Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign

  To be debated.

 

(vi).  The United Kingdom’s Household Debt Ticking Time-Bomb

  To be debated.

 

(vii). Economic Viability Assessments from Developers

  To be referred to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

(viii). Planning Ahead to Use the Community Infrastructure Levy

  To be referred to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

Resolved – That the Notices of Motion, ‘Economic Viability Assessments from Developers’ and ‘Planning Ahead to Use the Community Infrastructure Levy’, be referred to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

101.

Motion - National Budget

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Phil Davies

Seconded by Councillor Bernie Mooney

 

“At the hands of this Tory Government, and the Coalition before, the people of Wirral have endured the longest period of falling incomes since records began. People are poorer under the Conservatives – and they feel poorer.

 

Chancellor Philip Hammond had the opportunity to deliver a budget offering real hope and change – and he bungled it.

 

This budget offered little for families in Wirral. The Chancellor offered little in the way of help to the least well-off: he failed to provide any vision for how, in the face of Brexit, we can hope to kick-start our economy out of its current doldrums. The Chancellor even denied unemployment exists, so little surprise the Tories have no message for those looking to return to work or further their careers.

 

For local government the story was the same. Less money available while demand rises. Our communities who need our help most are being failed by the Tories as a direct consequence of their broken austerity experiment.

 

One of the few measures directed at alleviating the financial stresses faced by councils up and down this country was the ability to charge an extra 100% council tax on properties which have been empty for more than two years.

 

While this may be impactful in central London where absentee overseas landlords sit on thousands of empty properties – this is of little consequence in Wirral. To put this in perspective – while Wirral has been forced to slash £200million from our budgets since 2010, this measure is understood to raise just £12,000 - unlikely to make much of an impact.

 

Mr Hammond tinkered with the economy when it needs turbo-charging. As his cabinet colleagues currently dither in their half-hearted negotiations on Britain’s withdrawal from the EU the chancellor too has shirked his responsibilities. If ever we needed a grand plan and strong leadership that moment is now but instead we have a man whose best idea is to introduce a new rail card for those people who need a home.

 

Once again it is clear. Only Labour can be trusted to act in the best interests of the people of Wirral.

 

Council agrees to write to Wirral’s 4 MPs and ask them to arrange a meeting with the Chancellor of the Exchequer asking him to look again at the issues facing local authorities up and down the country, including Wirral, and to take immediate action to avert the national crisis in children’s social care by providing adequate funding and make serious and real interventions to protect the collapsing housing markets with real assistance which will help Wirral residents find suitable housing.”

 

One amendment which had been circulated in advance of the meeting was submitted in accordance with Standing Order 12(1) and (9), as

follows:

 

Proposed by Councillor Phil Gilchrist

Seconded by Councillor Alan Brighouse

 

“Delete ‘and the Coalition before’ from paragraph 1.

 

Insert at the end of paragraph 1…

 

‘The resignations from the Board  ...  view the full minutes text for item 101.

102.

Motion - Preparing Communities for the Impact of New Development

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Phil Gilchrist

Seconded by Councillor Alan Brighouse

 

Council recognises that, at its meeting on 14 December 2015, Council had before it a Notice of Motion entitled ‘Investing in our Communities’. This referred to the use of the Capital Receipt expected from the sale of Acre Lane as ‘one of the most substantial receipts received since the Borough was created.'

 

The Notice of Motion referred to the limited resources available to the Constituency Committees.

 

It suggested that…

 

'Cabinet should consider allocating £1m from this asset sale into each Constituency Committee; in line with the 2020 vision and in the spirit of devolution to Constituency Committees, they should be enabled to determine the use of these funds.'

 

Council referred the Notice of Motion to the Cabinet of 22 February 2016. Cabinet decided that the Notice of Motion should be considered as part of the review of Neighbourhood Working and the future of the Council’s Constituency Committees.

 

It is clear that limited progress has been made with this ‘review’ apart from a series of consultative sessions. It is also apparent that the Capital Programme considered by Cabinet (6 Nov 2017, item 10) expects that the Capital Receipt is being utilised:

http://s03vs-intrcm.core.wcent.wirral.gov.uk//documents/s50045804/Capital%20Monitoring%20Q2%202017-18%20Report.pdf

 

Council believes that Cabinet should consider and set out how Wirral can deal with the pressures on local services, including school accommodation and health and social facilities should the Acre Lane development proceed. Such considerations can also apply to other major developments and set out how Section 106 and, in future, Community Infrastructure Levies, may be secured and applied.

 

Consideration has yet, apparently, still to be given to allocating capital and revenue to Constituency Committees so that they can fulfil their role effectively.

 

Council also requests that Cabinet should consider spending part of the capital receipt on the physical infrastructure of the wider Bromborough and Eastham community. That consideration should include identifying narrow estate roads where there are limited parking facilities and where grass verges are damaged.

 

Following a debate and Councillor Phil Gilchrist having replied, the motion was put and lost (21:34) (One abstention).

103.

Motion - Reducing Single Use Plastic in Wirral

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Pat Cleary

Seconded by Councillor Adam Sykes

 

Council notes that, in the UK, some 2.2 million tonnes of plastic packaging is consumed annually. Only 40% of this is recycled domestically1. According to recent research, eight million tons of plastic waste ends up in the world’s oceans each year, endangering marine life and entering the food chain2. In addition, there is a growing understanding of the risks posed to human health by toxic chemicals present in plastics.

 

Council also notes that following the introduction of the 5p bag charge in England in 2015, the use of single-use plastic bags dropped by 83% in the first six months.

 

Council believes that the reduction of single-use plastic would benefit health in Wirral and reduce waste. Council therefore requests the Cabinet to:

 

1.  Develop a robust strategy to ensure Wirral Council phases out single-use plastics (SUP) in its activities within the next two years.

2.  Work with partners and other large institutions e.g. the NHS to encourage them in developing similar strategies to reduce SUP.

3.  Inform the public of Wirral of the reasons for phasing out SUP and encourage them to switch to alternatives.

 

Sources

1. Wrap. Plastics Market Situation Report, Spring 2016, p9

2. Science. Plastic Waste Inputs from Land into the Oceans. Feb 13, 2015.

 

One amendment which had been circulated in advance of the meeting was submitted in accordance with Standing Order 12(1) and (9), as follows:

 

Proposed by Councillor Phill Brightmore

Seconded by Councillor Paul Stuart

 

Add the following:

 

Council also agrees to:

 

1.  Incorporate the reduction of SUP use into Wirral Council's Waste Minimisation Strategy (regarding entire Borough, not just WBC).

 

2.  Refer all of the recommendations in this motion to Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee with a view to advising Cabinet how they can most effectively be delivered.

 

3.  Ask the Cabinet Member for Environment to write to the Conservative Minister for Environment, requesting that the reduction of SUP form part of any future national Waste Management Strategy.

 

Following a debate and Councillor Pat Cleary having waived his right of reply, the amendment was put and carried (55:0) (One abstention).

 

The substantive motion, as amended was then put and carried (55:0) (One abstention).

 

Resolved (55:0) (One abstention) -

 

Council notes that, in the UK, some 2.2 million tonnes of plastic packaging is consumed annually. Only 40% of this is recycled domestically. According to recent research, eight million tons of plastic waste ends up in the world’s oceans each year, endangering marine life and entering the food chain. In addition, there is a growing understanding of the risks posed to human health by toxic chemicals present in plastics.

 

Council also notes that following the introduction of the 5p bag charge in England in 2015, the use of single-use plastic bags dropped by 83% in the first six months.

 

Council believes that the reduction of single-use plastic would benefit health in Wirral and reduce waste. Council therefore requests the Cabinet to:

 

1.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 103.

104.

Motion - Domestic Violence

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Anita Leech

Seconded by Councillor Janette Williamson

 

“This meeting takes place as the White Ribbon campaign’s 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence comes to a close. (December 10th). 

 

The 16 Days campaign has taken place against a background of increased reporting of high profile cases of abuse directed against women, stretching from Hollywood to Westminster, but we must not forget the overwhelming majority of abuse takes place in a domestic environment, often against mothers and their children – and yet we see the Government again targeting the most vulnerable with its failed austerity measures.

 

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) the majority of victims of domestic homicides recorded between April 2013 and March 2016 were females (70%).

 

The ONS also said that the police recorded 1.1 million domestic abuse-related incidents and crimes in the year ending March 2017, while the majority of victims of 454 domestic homicides recorded between April 2013 and March 2016 were females (70%).

 

However, according to the latest reports many victims of domestic abuse do not see justice.

 

Now we have a Government which is trying to sneak out measures which will put even more women’s lives at risk. It is being reported that the Tory Government is planning to remove refuges and other forms of short-term supported housing from the welfare system. At a point in their lives, when they fear for their safety – and often that of their children – many women will now face even more pressure because the Government is withdrawing key support for them.

 

According to the reports the Government instead plans to hand money to local councils – but as we have seen before local government is expected to make this cash go further than the Government could manage. According to recent media reports “the government proposes handing a “ring-fenced” grant to councils for short-term supported housing. However, this does not exclusively cover refuges – it is also aimed at older people, homeless people, offenders, people with mental illnesses and drug addicts”.

 

Council recognises local authorities such as Wirral have demonstrated their ability to show great prudence and planning in making ever decreasing funding go much further, but believes it is unacceptable for the Government to place further pressures on local government, placing more women at risk because they are failing to balance their own budget.

 

Council agrees to write to the Home Secretary to ask her to drop these proposals and take the safety of women in situations of domestic abuse more seriously by providing adequate funding for key issues such as women’s refugees and on-going support for women fleeing domestic violence.”

 

One amendment which had been circulated in advance of the meeting was submitted in accordance with Standing Order 12(1) and (9), as follows:

 

Proposed by Councillor David Burgess-Joyce

Seconded by Councillor Bruce Berry

 

“Paragraph 2: Delete ‘ – and yet……… measures.’

 

Delete paragraphs 6, 7, 8, 9 and insert:

 

Domestic violence is a blight on our society and many  ...  view the full minutes text for item 104.

105.

Motion - Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Christine Spriggs

Seconded by Councillor Brian Kenny

 

This Council is concerned and disappointed by the Home Secretary’s rejection on the 31st October, 2016 of an Inquiry into the policing of events at Orgreave.

 

This Council observes that the Independent Police Commission said in their redacted report released in June 2015 “that there was evidence of excessive violence by police officers, and a false narrative from police exaggerating violence by miners, perjury by officers giving evidence to prosecute the arrested men, and an apparent cover-up of that perjury by senior officers”.

 

This Council believes in the light of such statements that the Home Secretary needs to review her decision and ensure that there is a full public inquiry into the events at the Orgreave coking plant on 18th June 1984.

 

This Council notes that 95 miners were arrested and charged with offences, but were all later acquitted amid claims that police at the time had fabricated evidence.

 

Council agrees to write to the Home Secretary and ask that she takes into account the opinion of this Council and accepts that there is widespread public concern about events at Orgreave and calls for her to order a public inquiry into them.

 

Having applied the guillotine in accordance with minute 99 ante, the Council did not debate this matter.

 

Prior to the motion being put to the vote, Councillor Blakeley and five Conservative Members rose to request a ‘card vote’.

 

A ‘card vote’ was then taken and the Council divided as follows:

 

For the motion (53) Councillors R Abbey, T Anderson, B Berry, C Blakeley A Brighouse, P Brightmore, D Burgess-Joyce, C Carubia, P Cleary, A Davies, G Davies, P Davies, P Doughty, D Elderton, G Ellis, S Foulkes, P Gilchrist, J Green, P Hackett, P Hayes, A Hodson, AER Jones, C Jones, S Kelly, B Kenny, A Leech, I Lewis, M McLaughlin, J McManus, C Meaden, B Mooney, C Muspratt, T Norbury, C Povall, D Realey, L Reecejones, L Rennie, L Rowlands, PA Smith, C Spriggs, J Stapleton, P Stuart, M Sullivan, A Sykes, T Usher, J Walsh, W Ward, G Watt, S Whittingham, I Williams, KJ Williams, J Williamson and G Wood.

 

Against the motion (0)

 

One abstention – Councillor A McLachlan (Civic Mayor).

 

Resolved (53:0) (One abstention) – That the motion be approved.

106.

Motion - The United Kingdom's Household Debt Ticking Time-Bomb

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Adrian Jones

Seconded by Councillor Paul Stuart

 

Council notes that in once prosperous Wirral hardship is increasing, food-banks can scarcely keep up with need, and the government’s withdrawal of central funding is set to significantly increase poverty throughout the Borough.

 

The Chancellor appears to think that there are no unemployed, more jobs are being created, and the economy is sound. However, in an increasingly low-wage ‘gig economy’ the continuing Tory/LibDem austerity policy continues to increase poverty through wage-depression whilst food-price inflation, housing costs, and increasing travel costs inexorably drive millions of low-income families and individuals (who may be in work or not in work) into unsustainable household debt.  Many who are in paid employment earn so little that they qualify for benefits – a transfer payment of funds from the public purse to subsidise a low-wage “austerity” culture. Council notes that the present UK generation still anticipate becoming the first to receive lower life-time earnings than their parents and to be unlikely ever to earn enough to become home-owners.

 

The rapid expansion of private debt was recognised as early as 2015 when Ian Duncan Smith’s right wing ‘think tank’ warned that household debt had risen by more than £34 billion in less than three years and stood at £1.47 trillion – the highest ever recorded. Almost nine million people were ‘over indebted’ through credit card borrowing, bank overdrafts, and pay-day loans. The IDS findings are vindicated by the JP Morgan Chase Foundation’s research, revealing that as many as fifteen million UK people are now in serious debt just trying to pay their ordinary living bills.  The extent of hardship is illustrated in Wirral’s formerly prosperous shopping centres where major retailers are closing to be replaced increasingly by charity shops and pawn-broking businesses, and by the dependency of so many people (including many who are in paid employment) on charities and food banks. 

 

Council agrees to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and ask him to recognise the growing problem of household debt on the poorest families on Wirral and to reconsider his welfare policies.

 

Having applied the guillotine in accordance with minute 99 ante, the Council did not debate this matter.

 

Resolved (38:16) (One abstention) – That the motion be approved.