TRURO CITY COUNCIL
Town Clerk’s Department Municipal Buildings Boscawen Street Truro TR1 2NE Tel. (01872) 274766 Fax. (01872) 225572
CITY OF TRURO www.truro.gov.uk
Roger Gazzard email: [email protected] Town Clerk F6/3/RG/RD January 2020
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED TO ATTEND A MEETING OF THE TRURO CITY COUNCIL TO BE HELD AT 7.00 pm ON MONDAY 27 JANUARY 2020 (PRECEPT) in Truro Public Library (top floor), Union Place, Truro For the transaction of the under-mentioned business:-
1 Prayers Prior to the formal business of the Council, Reverend Jeremy Putnam, the Mayor’s Chaplain, to say prayers.
2 To receive apologies for absence
3 Disclosure or Declarations of Interest Councillors will be asked to make disclosures or declarations of interest in respect of items on this agenda
4 To confirm the Minutes of the Council Meeting held 9 December 2019 pages 160- 165 (Minute Nos: 273 - 286).
5 Open Session for Cornwall Councillors verbal, written or tabled reports (15 minutes) This is an opportunity to discuss Cornwall Council issues relevant to the Council. If there are any matters that require a Council decision, please notify the Town Clerk four working days before the meeting.
6 Open Session for Electors of Truro – Verbal Questions (15 minutes) This is an opportunity for electors to raise issues with the Council. The Council is unable to make any resolutions at this meeting on any issues raised
7 To receive Communications from the Mayor (Appendix on cream)
8 To receive Correspondence
9 Question Time pursuant to Standing Order No. 5k – Written Questions only Councillors may ask the Mayor or the Town Clerk questions in writing. A minimum Of four clear working days is required, unless the matter is urgent, when the question must be received by the Town ‘Clerk before twelve noon of the day of the meeting
10 To receive information and/or determine action as appropriate in the following report:
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE HELD 5 DECEMBER 2019 Page Nos: 155 - 159, (Minute nos: 266 – 272) (Appendix on green) n1.1 Mi ute No:- 268 – Planning Consultation (i) Schedule 1 Proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that the recommendations contained within Schedule be adopted by the Planning Committee.
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(ii) Schedule 2
RESOLVED that Cornwall Council be informed of the recommendations as voted upon by Truro City Council’s Planning Committee.
1.2 Minute No:- 269 – Consultations (i) Home Office Consultation – Strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments Proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that Members consider the consultation documentation and for the item to be placed on the agenda for the Planning Committee meeting to be held on Thursday 2 January 2020.
(ii) A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross (Highways England, Scottish Powers, R Renewables UK & Western Power Distribution PLC) Proposed by Ellis, seconded Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that Truro City Council supports the application for an order granting development consent for the A390 Chiverton to Carland Cross Scheme.
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE HELD 2 JANUARY 2020 Page Nos: 166 - 170, (Minute nos: 287 – 293) (Appendix on green) 1.1 Minute No:- 289 – Planning Consultation (i) Schedule 1 Proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that the recommendations contained within Schedule be adopted by the Planning Committee.
(ii) Schedule 2
RESOLVED that Cornwall Council be informed of the recommendations as voted upon by Truro City Council’s Planning Committee.
1.2 Minute No:- 290 – Consultations (i) Conservation Applications Report Proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that the proposal, as outlined in Appendix 3, be adopted by the Planning Committee, subject ti approval from Council.
(ii) Home Office Consultation – Stregthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments Proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that, with permission of the Mayor, the above item be placed on the agenda for Council to consider on Monday 27 January 2020.
MEETING OF THE PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) HELD 6 JANUARY 2020 Page Nos: 171- 175, (Minute nos: 294 – 300) (Appendix on pink) n1.1 Mi ute No:- 295 – Public Conveniences- Working Group Proposed by Councillor Ellis, seconded by Councillor Biscoe
RECOMMENDED that the Parks and Amenities Manager: a) Meet with Cornwall Council to discuss the detailed redesign plans for the Green Street toilets, proposed parking for disabled people and security etc; b) Include improved ventilation, a public noticeboard and external drinking fountain in a revised Option 2 design for the Green Street toilets; c) Arrange for full plans for revised Option 2 to be drawn up by the Council’s contracted architects; d) Update disabled public convenience users with progress; e) Conduct a tender exercise for design Option 2 for the Green Street toilets; f) Produce a project plan for the works (referred to above); and g) Report back to a future meeting of the Parks and Amenities Committee.
1.2 Minute No:- 296 – Estimates 2020/2021 (i) Summary of Net Revenue Spending Proposed by Councillor Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, seconded by Councillor Smith
RECOMMENDED that, power be delegated to the Town Clerk to lead a campaign for the provision of a free or discounted water supply to public conveniences and engage with organisations such as South West Water (SWW), OFWAT (economic regulator of the water sector in England and Wales). Local Government Association (LGA), Cornwall Council (CC).
(ii) Statement of Funds & Reserves – Parks Committee Fund Proposed by Councillor Mrs Eathorne Gibbons, seconded by Councillor Smith
RECOMMENDED that: 1. The Revised Estimates for 2019 – 2020 be approved. 2. The Estimates for 2020 – 2021 be approved. 3. The Financial Forecasts for 2021 - 2022 and 2022 - 2023 be agreed in principle. 4. The contributions to the Capital Funds set out on page 31 be approved. 5. The Schedule of Fees and Charges for set out on pages 38 - 41 be approved, subject to the following amendment: Inclusion of “community groups” and an appropriate definition in the rates for charities set out on pages 40 – 41.
1.3 Minute No:- 297 – Exclusion of the Press and Public (i) Proposed by Councillor Ms Southcombe (Chairman)
RESOLVED that in accordance with s1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item by reason of its confidential or special nature.
1.4 Minute No:- 298 – New Staff Accomodation – Boscawen Park Depot/Nursery (i) Return of Press and Public Proposed by Councillor Ms Southcombe (Chairman)
RESOLVED that the press and public be invited back into the meeting.
(ii) Proposed by Councillor Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, seconded by Councillor Smith
RESOLVED that the tender from Truro Building Services, for works for New Staff Accommodation - Boscawen Park Depot/ Nursery, be accepted by Truro City Council.
MEETING OF THE FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) HELD 13 JANUARY 2020 Page Nos: 176- 179, (Minute nos: 301 – 305) (Appendix on yellow) 1.1 Minute No:- 304 – Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer’s Report Draft Estimates 2020/2021 Proposed by Councillor Roden, seconded by Councillor Smith
RECOMMENDED that the rate for the Municipal room hire for charities and community groups in the estimates report be used for the Library room hire for the next year.
Proposed by Councillor Wells (Chairman)
RECOMMENDED that (i) the revised Estimates for 2019-2020 be approved; (ii) the Estimates for 2020-2021 be approved; (iii) the financial forecasts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 be agreed in principle; (iv) contributions to the Committee Funds be approved.
(For clarification: consideration of these committee reports is for accuracy only. Agreement does not prevent the Council from fully considering the Precept in Agenda item 11 below)
11 To resolve the Precept upon Cornwall Council for 2020-2021 (Appendix on White) The estimates report, which has been changed to reflect the recommendations of the Parks and Amenities Committee and the Finance and General Purposes Committee, is attached.
12 Town Clerk’s Report (Appendix on cream) To consider the report of the Town Clerk
13 Truro/Roseland Community Network Panel (F20) Councillor Wells to report
14 To receive verbal or written reports of meetings or conferences attended by members If members wish the Council to pass resolutions based on their reports, the reports must be in writing and submitted to the Town Clerk at least four clear working days prior to the meeting.
15 To authorise the sealing of documents to give effect to any Resolutions passed by the Council at this meeting
DATED this Twenty Second Day of January, Two Thousand and Twenty
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MEETING OF TRURO CITY COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 9 DECEMBER 2019 at 7.00 pm at the Large Community Room, Truro Library
PRESENT: The Mayor (Councillor Robert J. Smith), Honorary Freeman Cllr Wells, Councillors Allen, Mrs Butler, Mrs Callen, Mrs Carlyon, Mrs Cox, Mrs Eathorne- Gibbons, Ellis, Mrs Neale, Nolan, Mrs Nolan, Pascoe, Rich, Roden, Ms Southcombe, Mrs Stokes, Mrs Swain, Tamblyn, Mrs Tudor, Vella and Webb
APOLOGIES: Apologies for absence were submitted by Councillors Biscoe and Miss Jones.
Also in Attendance: Roger Gazzard, Town Clerk Reverend Jeremy Putnam, Mayor’s Chaplain
An apology of absence was also received from Mr David Harris CC
PRAYERS Prior to the formal business of the Council, the Mayor’s Chaplain, the Reverend Jeremy Putnam, said prayers.
273 DISCLOSURES OR DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS There were no disclosures or declarations of interest.
274 MINUTES The minutes of the Council Meeting held 28 October 2019 were taken as read and signed by the Mayor as a correct record.
275 CORNWALL COUNCIL (F1) (i) Towns Fund Bid Councillor Rich CC informed Members there would be a meeting the following week regarding the Towns Fund Bid with representatives from the qualifying towns in Cornwall. Councillor Rich CC hoped the board would be chaired by a representative of the community such as a member of the public or a business owner. Councillor Ms Southcombe commented it was vital that the community had a voice on the Towns Fund Bid Board and suggested either the Community Development Worker or a representative from the community be involved.
Councillor Rich CC commented that at a meeting regarding a place for retired people to socialise, the issue was raised about how hard it was for some people to get around Truro due to the cobbles. He would like to see some of the funding being made available for modifications to enable people to get around easier. This had been successful in other towns. The fund was a new pot of money and should be for new initiatives only.
Further discussion included the query whether the money was guaranteed. Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells responded the General Election result may impact this. However, he had spoken to the previous MP for Truro and Falmouth when the Bid was first announced and the monies available was for up to £25 million for each area, with £100 million available for the entire county. There was also a sum of money available for each town to create and submit their bid to the government. Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells referred Members to the minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee (Minute 258, page 151, 18 November 2019) where Councillors had discussed the community being part of the process.
(ii) Rail Services Councillor Rich CC commented he had a meeting with Geoff Brown CC, Portfolio Holder for Transport regarding the railway. Cornwall Council wanted to install a new coast-to-coast rail service from Falmouth to Newquay. Councillor Rich CC added there had been a report at Cornwall Council approximately five years ago that also discussed the opening of a rail line between St Dennis and Newquay.
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Should the new rail service go ahead, and prove to be popular, this created the potential for the opening of halts in Truro. Councillor Rich CC reported he had asked Cornwall Council for the consideration of a Pydar halt when designing the Pydar Street development, with the suggestion that even if a halt was not considered in the proposal, the potential for the introduction of one in the future be provided for.
(iii) Household Waste and Recycling Plant, Tregurra Councillor Nolan CC informed Members that unfortunately he was not able to attend the official opening of the Household Waste and Recycling Plant due to Purdah.
(iv) Planning Matters Councillor Nolan CC commented an application for Tolgarrick had gone to the Planning Review Committee, but it had been refused, with the comment it had changed a lot from the original vision. The Case Officer would now need to consider this advice with the possibility of either a refusal, or referral to the Strategic Planning Committee at Cornwall Council.
In addition, Councillor Nolan CC spoke about the Home Office consultation on strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments that the Planning Committee considered at their meeting on 5 December 2019 (Minute 269, page 158) confirming Liskeard had one authorised site that had space for 15 separate spots at a total cost of £1.8 million.
(v) ‘No Cold Calling’ Zone Councillor Nolan CC informed Members that a ‘No Cold Calling’ zone had been introduced in Carnon Downs following a spate of cold callers. Stickers had been handed out to residents to display, along with flyers, and a number to call if there were any issues. Funding was not currently available for this to be rolled out across the county.
(vi) Domestic Abuse Unit Councillor Nolan CC reported there had been 18 days of action with the aim of tackling domestic abuse, commenting it was important to remember domestic abuse could be mental and not just physical, and there was a helpline for members of the public either dealing with abuse, or wanting advice, to call.
(vi) Grass Alternative Councillor Nolan CC commented Cornwall Council was considering a grass alternative, Herbal Leys, a meadow mix that increased biodiversity and the richness of soil, locks in carbon, and apparently makes cattle taste better.
276 OPEN SESSION FOR ELECTORS OF TRURO There were no questions or comments from the electors of Truro.
277 MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS Drawing Members’ attention to his written report, the Mayor elaborated on the following events he had attended since his last report:
(i) Truro City Council Gardens & Allotments Presentation Evening – 16 October 2019 The Mayor commented the above event was absolutely packed out, and it was a pleasure to attend and witness the passion of members of the public who got so many positive things out of gardening. Mr and Mrs Mortimore had a very successful night winning lots of prizes.
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(ii) Cornwall Tourism Awards – 7 November 2019 The Mayor was invited to attend as a guest of Malcolm Bell of Visit Cornwall, and the Tourist Information Centre (TIC). It was a fantastic evening with the TIC achieving ‘Visitor Information Service of the Year.’
The Mayor commented there was a significant amount of money in tourism. Councillor Nolan confirmed it was £1.8 billion across Cornwall.
(iii) A Celebration of Cornwall’s Heritage, Royal Cornwall Museum (RCM) – 9 November 2019 The Mayor reported the event was well-attended, but it was unfortunate to hear that at the RCM’s AGM it was announced the museum would be closing for approximately eight months, which was felt was a sensible strategy to kickstart it again, with a new approach. It was also unfortunate this was taking place during the Hall for Cornwall’s closure.
(iv) Remembrance Sunday Service – 10 November 2019 The Mayor commented it was a very memorable, important event, but various glitches had to be ironed out for next year.
(v) The Festival of Lights – 20 November 2019 The Mayor reported the event was very successful with the public but unfortunately suffered from lack of financial support, and the organisational side also needed to be looked at.
Upcoming Events
(i) Youth Council, Hendra Hall – 11 January 2020 The Mayor was pleased to inform Members there would be an open event to try and elect young people onto the Youth Council. Any support from Councillors would be most welcome.
(ii) Mayor’s Charity Jazz Dinner – 17 April 2020 The Mayor announced his Charity Jazz Dinner, which would take place in April at the Alverton Hotel. There would be an auction and a raffle as well as dinner and dancing. The Mayor was being assisted in organising the event by Councillor Mrs Eathorne- Gibbons, Ms Karen Hurn, and staff of Truro City Council.
278 CORRESPONDENCE There was no correspondence to report.
279 COMMITTEE REPORTS The Minutes of the Meetings of the under-mentioned Committees were approved and adopted by the Council, except where otherwise stated:-
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE 7 NOVEMBER 2019 Proposed by Councillor Vella, seconded by Councillor Webb
(i) Attendees It was noted that the applicant for Aspire Gymnastics Academy (PA19/05664) is Mr Buddell
MEETING OF THE PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE 11 NOVEMBER 2019 Proposed by Councillor Ms Southcombe, seconded by Councillor Mrs Butler
MEETING OF THE FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE 18 NOVEMBER 2019 Proposed by Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells, seconded by Councillor Mrs Cox 162
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280 TOWN CLERK’S REPORT (Appendix A) (i) Truro Public Library – ‘Key Handing Over’ Ceremony The Town Clerk commented that though the time in his report specified 3pm, as there was a meeting of the Trustees of the Library at 10am that day, the ceremony may be moved to take place afterwards. The Town Clerk confirmed he would let Councillors know nearer the time.
Concerns regarding the front door sticking, and the temperature of the library were also raised. The Town Clerk would investigate.
(ii) Towns Fund Bid The next meeting of the Towns Fund, to discuss the statements of readiness, to be submitted by the end of next week, would take place on 17 December 2019, to which all Councillors were invited. A committee would need to be set up by the end of January. Cornwall Council was suggesting the formation of the committee be split into three parts: a third made up of the public sector, a third made up of the private sector, and a third made up of the community/third sector.
The Town Clerk commented that the government had issued a statement of recommendation for who should be on the committee, and a representative from the private sector should act as Chairman. The Town Clerk confirmed he had a meeting the next day to discuss possible schemes that may be available immediately in Truro.
Councillors briefly discussed the provision of funding, and the Town Clerk confirmed the fund would be ‘co-funded’: that an area would be defined as a statistical area and generate funds from other sources that could then be matched. Clarity would be sought as the meetings progressed.
(iii) Hall for Cornwall Councillor Webb asked the Town Clerk if he had any news regarding his letters to the Hall for Cornwall regarding the proposed disabled access. The Town Clerk responded he had spoken to them and their architect would be writing to the City Council imminently.
Councillor Vella commented the meeting he and Councillor Webb had attended with the Town Clerk and the Hall for Cornwall had taken place a long time ago, and it was rather late to receive just a letter. He asked the Town Clerk to go back to the Hall for Cornwall and request an urgent meeting in the New Year.
281 SOUTH WEST WATER – POSSIBLE CONTAMINANTS IN THE NETWORK SYSTEMS Further to the presentation from Mr De’Ath, South West Water, given prior to this meeting, Councillor Mrs Tudor asked if Truro City Council could be the first local Council to introduce a planning policy that stipulated communal fat traps for new developments over a certain size. Councillor Mrs Swain queried whether this may be a possible addition to the Truro and Kenwyn Neighbourhood Plan.
Following further discussion, it was agreed that Councillor Vella would make enquiries into the feasibility of Truro introducing a planning policy with this condition, and he would liaise with the Town Clerk and report back to a future meeting.
282 TWINNING The Mayor reported he had a discussion with a gentleman from Penzance who had conducted significant research into the Pilgrim Fathers departing not from Plymouth, as previously thought, but from Newlyn. Following this revelation, both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor felt it was worth celebrating the links with Truro, Massachusetts as it was a landing point for some of the first people to explore America. However, upon 163
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further research, and the realisation the population of Truro, MA was only approximately 2,000, most of whom were second homeowners, the Mayor was unsure how this would work.
Councillor Mrs Cox explained to Councillors that in 2009 she visited Truro, MA to celebrate their 400th birthday, and she had found the community to be very active. Councillor Mrs Cox was also shown a wooden plaque that Lord Falmouth had gifted to Truro, MA in the 1980s. However, due to the distance, and subsequent cost of flights, which would be at Councillors’ own costs, as with travel to Morlaix and Boppard for their retrospective twinning activities, it was not feasible to regularly visit, and Councillor Mrs Cox suggested an informal friendship as opposed to a formal Twinning be encouraged. It was pointed out there was also a Truro in Australia and Canada.
Councillor Roden clarified the sum of monies allocated to the Twinning budget annually, which was small and covered such things as civic functions and gifts from the Mayor.
Councillor Mrs Butler left the meeting at 7:45pm.
Following further discussion, it was proposed by Councillor Smith (the Mayor) and
RESOLVED that the Mayor would write a letter to Truro, Massachusetts, extending a hand of friendship, and would impress the importance of Truro, MA, as being an initial landing point of the founding fathers.
283 STANDING ORDERS Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells reminded Members that a draft of Standing Orders (created comparing the City Council’s previous Standing Orders with NALC’s model standing orders and CALC’s recommendation following their interpretation of the model standing orders and Cornwall Council’s Code of Conduct), was presented to the Finance and General Purposes Committee (Min 203, pages 121 – 125, 14 October 2019), where a number of suggestions were made. These changes were highlighted in the report circulated via email prior to this meeting and included as an appendix to the agenda. These changes related to Part B, Part E and Procedural Guidance.
Secret Ballot Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells went through the changes as suggested by the Finance & General Purposes Committee, clarifying that changes had been made to Standing Orders that allowed for provision of a secret ballot for co-option and Mayoral/Deputy Mayoral Selection (Standing Order 9 (b) and Procedural Guidance 1 & 3), and that the decision for this to take place had to be made at the meeting at which the vote would take place. Procedural Guidance outlined how this would take place, requiring a minimum of a third of members to vote in favour.
Duration of Mayoral Term of Office Members discussed the pros and cons of extending the duration of the Mayoral Term of Office from one to two years. Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells clarified the proposed changes to Procedural Guidance allowed for the duration to be extended to two years in ‘special circumstances’ (Procedural Guidance 3 (iii), page 2), upon resolution of the Council. The special circumstances would be defined by the Council at the time the resolution was passed. It was not a caveat that would allow for any individual Mayor to choose to extend their term of office due to personal preference.
It was therefore proposed by Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells, seconded by Councillor Roden and
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RESOLVED that Truro City Council adopt the amended Standing Orders (Parts B, E and Procedural Guidance) as outlined in the report presented by Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells.
It was proposed by Councillor Roden, seconded by Councillor Smith (the Mayor) and unanimously
RESOLVED that it be recorded that the City Council extended its thanks to Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells for his hard work in revising the City Council’s Standing Orders.
Revised Standing Orders would be printed in due course and would be made available on the City Council website.
284 TRURO & THE ROSELAND COMMUNITY NETWORK PANEL (F20) Honorary Freeman Councillor Wells reported on the meeting of the Network Panel that took place on Tuesday 19 November 2019 at County Hall. A presentation was made by Noreen Jefferies of Cornwall Council’s Rural Housing regarding community- led housing initiatives. The Panel also considered the applications for Tranche 2 of the Highways Network Scheme, of which there were 24 (including Councillor Webb’s suggestion of a traffic management scheme at Tregurra Lane) compared to 13 submitted for Tranche 1. All of the schemes were accepted in principle, with funding allocated for feasibility studies to take place, after which, results would determine which schemes would go ahead.
The next meeting of the Network Panel would take place on 28 January 2020 at a venue to be confirmed.
285 REPORTS OF MEETINGS OR CONFERENCES ATTENDED Councillor Ms Southcombe commented she had attended the last meeting of the Flood Forum where there was a presentation from one of Cornwall Council’s compliance officers who mentioned a development in Troon had been refused planning permission purely on the grounds of an inadequate flood risk assessment and drainage scheme. The application went to appeal but was turned down.
286 COMMON SEAL
RESOLVED that the Common Seal be affixed to any document or documents necessary to give effect to the resolutions passed by the Council at this Meeting.
The meeting closed at 8:20 pm.
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A Town Clerks Report Council 9th December 2019
Management Accounts
I reported to the Finance & General Purposes Committee on the finances for the period 1st April to 31 October, the first seven months of the financial year. In total the position is that we are £19k overspent. However, I advised the committee that I am confident with the known commitments we have at present that we will obtain at least a breakeven position at the year end.
Library
We have now installed the new access/security system which has improved both and made it easier to control out of hours movement. This will have benefits for the flexibility of use of the building
We are arranging a “key handing over” ceremony with Cornwall Council on the 28th January at 3pm. I will remind Councillors closer to the date.
Hall for Cornwall/Municipal Offices
I have received the following information regarding the repair works to the Municipal offices.
“Kier have experienced problems with temporary works design for the proposed waste shute through the skylight and down the main stairwell; due to the liability of damaging the Listed cantilevered granite stairs. The waste shute will now come down the Boscawen courtyard (behind the old Flourish café). Removal of flat roof coverings is due to commence from 2 Dec 2019.
The external clock tower elevations are rendered (apart from granite on Boscawen side) and have some obvious areas in poor condition. The internal clock tower condition assessment is awaiting removal of the bells and grilles. The cast iron grilles will be taken down w/c 12 Dec.
The Boscawen St elevation pointing continues. The scaffolding will be in place until April 2020 until the clock tower repairs have been completed.”
Towns Fund
Since reporting the position to the Finance & General Purposes Committee I attended a meeting arranged by Cornwall Council and attended by representatives from each of the four towns, Penzance, St. Ives, Camborne, and Truro. The first requirement of the government is for a statement of readiness to be submitted by the end of next week for each of the towns. This will be submitted by Cornwall Council. Our statement is due to be discussed and agreed at a meeting on the 4th December. I will report on this at the meeting.
Roger Gazzard Town Clerk
Mayor’s Report 1st December 2019 – 13th January 2020 I had been forewarned that Christmas was the busiest time during the Mayoral year and so it proved to be. As the Mayoral role was a unique opportunity, I was determined to attend as many functions and events as possible, hence the rather long list this month! I have to say, in spite of the hectic pace, it was all very enjoyable.
Date Event Comments 1 Dec Penryn Christmas Methodist Church Penryn. Welcome by Cllr Mary May. Music from Concert Nankersey Male Voice Choir, Jazz Harbour, The Chorus and Viva Voce. Impromptu performance by Cllr Mark Snowdon who is Chairman of Penryn Christmas Lights Committee, which everyone agreed, were outstanding once again. What a talented bunch! 4 Dec Primestock Show Lemon Quay. An excellent turn out on the day and the weather played its part. There were the regular exhibitors and a plethora of prizes in all categories. Lin Calcraft went home with 1st prizes in Best Cross Bred Heifer, Best Pair, Supreme Champion ‘Shamrock’ and the Reserve Champion ‘Starlight’. Lin and Paul Calcraft, from Honiton, regularly take all the trophies around the South West – much to the chagrin of some! The craft stalls were well represented, and I learnt a great deal about eggs! (Ask Cllr Mrs Carlyon and it will be an education for you!) The pasty lunch was held at the Conservative Club and organised by Adam Birchall. Even after the long speeches the pasties were still too hot to eat… 4 Dec Lane Gallery Truro. An unofficial attendance to the opening of a small gallery in Opening Cathedral Lane, accessed through the Scentstore. A gem of a gallery which the artists themselves run. They rent out exhibition space for one or two pictures at a time if you want to try your hand in the commercial world. Worth a look. 5 Dec Truro High School Cathedral. Welcomed by Rev Canon Dr Lynda Barley. A wonderful and Carol Concert at the atmospheric experience with all ages represented. A performance by Cathedral Year 7 of ‘Ave Maria’ was astonishing followed by Year 9 and 10 soloists performing ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’. Delightful! 6 Dec Reddanick House Truro. I had a warm welcome at Redannick, with warm mince pies, Christmas Party mulled wine and entertaining conversations with the residents reminiscing their childhood wartime Christmases. Although one dear lady (who had been resident for the last five years) claimed she was only visiting and was ready to go home now! 7 Dec Mayor’s Charity Day Lemon Quay. A very successful day with over 32 charities and organisations represented. Once again, the weather held out and the footfall in the marquee was steady between 10:30 and 3.:30 pm. I am astonished by the amount of tea and biscuits consumed at the Mayor’s stall. The bulk of the £200 plus we raised was by The Deputy Mayor making tea and coffee. A splendid effort. The ‘Blood Bikers’ had their usual spot and I was able to chat about their volunteer teamwork. Did you know that the AVERAGE age of the Blood Bikers is 74 years and they are all Advanced Skills motorcyclists? No, I did not realise that either. 7 Dec Truro Operatic Soc / Cathedral. Handel’s Messiah, done properly (which it undoubtedly was) Symphony is a magnificent experience, but it is also a marathon! The Lady Orchestra Mayoress and I were sitting with the Lord Lieutenant and his mother on ‘Messiah’ the front row on the wooden upright chairs. We had all forgotten to bring cushions. Certainly, Mrs Bolitho (elderly and tiny lady) and I were feeling rather numb by the intermission. In the second half Mrs Bolitho
appeared to have grown, towering over me on the next seat, balancing precariously on the kneeler cushions that the Lord Lieutenant had thoughtfully placed on her seat, her feet were dangling in mid-air as she swung them back and forth in time with “Behold, I Know That My Redeemer Liveth”. A wonderful production but remember to take a cushion! 9 Dec St Georges Hotel Truro. A quality bottle of sherry was opened, mince pies and Christmas Christmas Visit cake were circulated. I raised toast to the residents and staff with ‘Best Wishes for 2020’ and there followed by a variety of discussions ranging from the cost of living, Brexit and the forthcoming election. 10 Dec Barchester Kenwyn. A very cheery welcome from General Manager Nikki Culleton Christmas Visit and Deputy Manager Marie Wilson. I was given a tour and introduced to several groups and individuals. Barchester Kenwyn is a big residential care facility with some very dedicated and hardworking staff who were clearly spreading a lot of Christmas cheer during my visit. More sherry and mince pies ensued and some interesting, if abstruse, conversation! 10 Dec Richard Lander Cathedral. The processional entrance, accompanied by the orchestra, Service of Nine began with O Come Emmanuel which was followed by Once in Royal Lessons and Carols David’s City with an angelic solo by Phoebe Collishaw. Prayers were conducted by Revd. Simon Griffiths. There was then a musical extravaganza with every Year group represented. The brass ensemble was excellent. Candles were lit and paraded down the central aisle and the Christmas tree lights outside the cathedral were switched on. Sian Jones, the Director of Music, and her team, had clearly worked very hard to achieve the very high standards of performance. 11 Dec Mountford House Truro. Mountford House provides more specialist care by Cornwall Christmas Visit Care Ltd for residents suffering with dementia. They have capacity for 36 residents made up of short and long-stay accommodation. The staff are marvellous and were doing a wonderful job of making Christmas special for their residents. I declined mince pies on this occasion in preference to a cup of tea and with some rather nice Christmas cake! 11 Dec Cathedral View Truro. I had a very pleasant visit to this residential care home. I found Nursing Home the residents clearly looking forward to their Christmas and I was Christmas Visit challenged by several residents with the current political and social situation. They clearly read their newspapers and watched the current affairs programmes and were interested in the outcome of the election due to take place the next day. I had tea and succumbed to some very nice Stollen cake. 12 Dec Penmount Penmount. A cheery welcome by Susan Cannan, the Bereavement Crematorium Carol Services Manager followed by an introduction by Clare Bray from Service Cornwall Hospice Care, who were the organisers of the event. An uplifting prayer by Pastor John Keast was followed by readings and carols. (I always seem to get Luke 2: 8-16 and so it was on this occasion). Excellent performance by ‘Rhos Keur’ a Cornish male voice choir in their rendition of some Cornish carols. Collection proceeds to Cornwall Hospice Care. One of the more bizarre images I retain is that of the Nativity scene at this venue. The stable with the empty crib with Mary, Joseph, and the ox and ass, beautifully presented on the automated coffin-conveyor bed. 13 Dec St Petroc’s Cathedral. Also attended by The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress. This Christmas Carol was a very special experience. Officiants were Canon Alan Bashforth, Service Rev Steve Wild and Fr John Deeny. Bosvigo School and Nanstallon Primary School sang carols. Lady Mary St Levan read a very moving poem by Debbe Bloom, ‘My Hand In Yours’. Steve Ellis, Chief Executive of St Petrocs gave a short summary of the year’s achievements and the hopes for 2020. The congregation sang ‘While Shepherds Watched’ as two donkeys were led down the central aisle of the cathedral. The whole congregation was then treated to a most amazing performance by the Falmouth Community Gospel Choir led by
‘The Soul Sister’ Ley Adewole. It was probably the best performance of ‘Stand by Me’ I’ve ever heard! A truly memorable event. 16 Dec Blue Light Carol Cathedral. Officiants: Canon Chancellor Alan Bashforth and Rev. Service Stewart Turner. Ceremonial entrance with the procession escorted by the Kernow Pipes and Drums with the Mayor of Truro, The Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff with their consorts followed by the Chief Officers of the Fire, Police and Emergency Services. Readings were by the Cadets, the Police Chief Superintendent for Cornwall and the Isle of Scilly, Jim Pearce and Fire & Road Safety Advisor Elen Thomas. ‘A Police Officer’s Christmas Prayer’ was read by Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer. We were then entertained by ‘Halwyn a Gan’ (Whitemoor Sings) from the china clay village of Whitemoor and then Kemysk Cornish Dancers, who performed some traditional pieces in their metal shod clogs. Quite an auditory and visual spectacle! After a final blessing by the Canon Chancellor, the VIPs and Standards were escorted to the west doors where we gathered around the Christmas tree to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. We were then invited to tea and mince pies by the crib. 17 Dec Truro Youth String Museum. A Christmas performance organised by Director and Orchestra Conductor Tim Boulton. A varied programme of arrangements of carols and seasonal pieces. I am amazed at the incredibly high standard of the musicians overall, but especially the soloist. Some as young as 10 years of age are playing some very complex music. If you have never heard them, you should watch out for their next concert. 20 Dec Amberley House Truro. Another very warm and friendly welcome with live entertainment Christmas Visit in full swing on my arrival. There was opportunity to chat with a number of residents which included interesting reminiscences about Truro and how it has changed over the last 50 years. For someone with an interest in the history of our city, these visits to residential homes are fascinating. Party food and drink was in abundance including the ubiquitous mince pies and sherry! 24 Dec Parks Dept Organised by The Parks Manager, Richard Budge. A substantial Christmas pasties! number of beers and pasties consumed ensured everyone left for their Christmas holiday in a very festive mood. 24 Dec The Festival of Nine Cathedral. Officiants: The Dean, Canon Chancellor Alan Bashforth. A Lessons and Carols marvellously atmospheric service with the Cathedral filled to capacity. Readings were done by members of the Cathedral Lay team, Arthur Taylor, Head Chorister, Dr Pat McGovern, Chairman of the Cathedral Council, myself and the High Sheriff of Cornwall, Mr John Willis. If you have never attended this service, I can recommend it whole heartedly as a memorable experience. 31 Dec Firework Displays Lemon Quay. New Year was celebrated with two firework displays at Truro School viewed from Lemon Quay. The earlier one, for families with young children, was a tremendous success with record numbers attending. I estimate around 1400. Around 850 / 900 I would guess at the midnight event. Dry weather helped. Many thanks are due to Paul Caruana and the organisers. Ideas abound on ways the event might be enhanced, and we look forward to an even better event next year! 1 Jan New Year’s Day Cathedral. New Year’s Day Concert by Truro Operatic Society and the Concert Truro Symphony Orchestra. This was a spectacular event featuring Mendelson, Sans-Saens and a potted version of Bizet’s ‘Carmen’. A spectacular performance overall but an exceptional one by the narrator, none other than the Right Reverend Roger Bush. The Dean played his part with aplomb to the great delight and appreciation of the audience! If the stress of managing a cathedral become too much for him, I can see an alternative career beckoning at the Hall for Cornwall! 6 Jan Funeral: Insp. Mark Penmount. Whilst there was no formal invitation, Truro City Council Richards was represented by me, Roger Gazzard, Cllr Ms Southcombe and Cllr Mrs Carlyon. Cllr Biscoe read a poem celebrating the life and work of Mark Richards, written for the occasion. Very well attended with many
of the mourners standing outside, including me, for the duration of the ceremony. 11 Jan Youth Council Hendra Hall. Many thanks to all those who supported the event. We Launch had no idea of how many youth representatives would show up, but we managed 13 with at least two more to follow. We now have an Executive Committee who will steer the rest of the project. The next meeting is on 27th January where they will elect officers. 12 Jan Royal British Legion County Hall. Presided by Lt Col Edward Bolitho. Cllr Mary May and Conference and Mayor of Truro attending as guests. Steve Lewis stood down as AGM Chairman after seven years’ service and is succeeded by Andy Eke. Awards were made a number of members who had served diligently for several years. General concern about the fall in membership.
Meetings attended in the period 1st December
Date Meeting 2 Dec William Yeoman Bennett Charity 4 Dec Truro Civic Society 5 Dec Marketing Strategy Visit Cornwall TIC 5 Dec Planning 9 Dec Full Council 10 Dec Charity Dinner planning at the Alverton 12 Dec Rev Simon Griffiths: Community Celebration planning 2 Jan Planning 6 Jan Parks & Amenities 13 Jan Finance (Estimates)
Truro City Youth Council: As stated above, the Youth Council is underway. Thanks are due to all those who have assisted in bringing this idea to fruition. Cllr Wells deserves special mention for his proof reading and recommendations in the draft Constitution and Standing Orders. Thanks also to Damien Richards who organised the venue, Hendra Hall. I hope to involve more Councillors and officers in the project through mentoring and presentations that will be helpful support for them in the early stages. I am looking forward to seeing how the Youth Council evolves!
Community Celebration: Thank you to those who have already contributed to this scheme with ideas and feedback. We will see what comes of it, but I think in terms of bringing people together; getting to know ‘your patch’, sharing in a community event and subsequent publicity about the Council and the people it serves will be of benefit in a variety of ways.
Charity Dinner: The Mayor’s Charity Jazz Dinner, a fund raiser for Kernow Young Carers, has been a tricky bit of organising. It is taking place on April 17th at the Alverton Hotel. Tickets priced £35 per person. I do hope you will support it, either by coming along or by promoting it whenever you can. The project has raised the issue for the Mayor’s Charity account of ‘on-line-banking’ and facilitating ticket purchases. We now can accept donations and payments by BACs, and purchase and payment for tickets by phone through TIC.
Cllr Bob Smith Mayor of Truro
Truro City Council
The Mayor of Truro invites you and your guests to a Charity Dinner in support of KERNOW YOUNG CARERS Friday 17th April 2020 7:00 pm £35.00 per person at THE ALVERTON HOTEL Tregolls Road, Truro, TR1 1ZQ Black Tie Optional ❖❖❖❖ FEATURING Three Course Dinner The Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra Auction and Raffle of Luxury Goods and Services ❖❖❖❖ Tickets and Menu selection available at Visit Truro 30 Boscawen Street Truro tic@ truro.gov.uk 01872 274555 all payment methods also [email protected] Truro Community Library 01872 274766 (
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE HELD THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2019 at 7.00 pm
PRESENT: Councillors Mrs Carlyon, Ellis, Nolan, Pascoe, Ms Southcombe, Mrs Swain, Vella, (Chairman) Webb and Wells
APOLOGIES: Apologies for absence were reported from Councillors Biscoe, Smith and Tamblyn
Also in attendance: Councillor Mrs Tudor, Mr Damien Burley (Land at Maiden Green, PA19/07921) Mr Alun Jones, Truro BID, and Mr Steve Jolly, Schroders (Land North at A390, PA19/05930) Mr Paul Bateman (The Cabin, Park Farm, PA19/09838) Mr Matt Doble, Case Officer, Cornwall Council
266 DISCLOSURES OR DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no disclosures or declarations of interest.
267 MINUTES The Minutes of the meeting held 7 November 2019, were read and considered a correct record.
268 PLANNING CONSULTATION (a) Schedule 1 Further to all Councillors of Truro City Council being given the opportunity to submit comments to applications in their Ward (by an agreed deadline), and for Members of the Planning Committee to comment on this Schedule prior to publication of the agenda for this meeting, it was proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman) that it be unanimously:
RESOLVED that the recommendations contained within Schedule 1, as proposed by the Chairman, be adopted by the Planning Committee, with the exception of Carn Mab, Quarry Lane (PA19/09565), which, at the Chairman’s request, be moved to Schedule 2 for further consideration by the Committee.
(b) Schedule 2 The Committee considered plans submitted in accordance with the planning consultation procedure, details of which are attached (Schedule 2), and, that it be
RESOLVED that Cornwall Council be informed of the following recommendations as voted upon by Truro City Council’s Planning Committee: -
(i) Land at Maiden Green, Threemilestone (1) (PA19/07921) Unanimous deferral of the application recommended due to: 1) outstanding information yet to be provided, such as a full archaeological survey and details regarding foul sewage and disposal of surface water run-off; 2) the need for an independent sequential test outlining the impact the proposal would have on Truro City Centre; 3) significant changes that have taken place since the first proposal for a hotel on this site, such as the declaration of a Climate Emergency by Cornwall Council and Truro City Council which necessitates a study to demonstrate that adequate measures have been taken to ensure a low-zero carbon footprint for the development; 4) the design of the buildings does not comply with Cornwall Design Guide; 5) the development should be included in the emerging masterplan for Langarth Garden Village. 155
Proposer: Councillor Vella (Chairman)
Councillor Mrs Carlyon left the meeting at 7:30pm.
(ii) Land at Tolgarrick Farm, Green Lane (2) (PA19/04786) The Chairman deferred the above application to the January meeting, as an extension of time has been granted by the Case Officer.
(iii) Land North of A390, Threemilestone (3) (PA19/05930) Unanimous refusal recommended due to the detrimental impact of the retail units on businesses in Truro City Centre, the negative impact on biodiversity in the area, the lack of a sequential test (which the City Council had previously requested) and that the proposal contradicts Cornwall Council’s Climate Emergency declaration.
Proposer: Councillor Ms Southcombe Seconder: Councillor Pascoe
Councillor Ellis wished for his name to be recorded as having abstained from voting on the above recommendation.
It was agreed that Councillor Vella (Chairman) would write to Edwina Hannaford CC, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, to comment that proposals for Land at Maiden Green (PA19/07921) and Land North of A390 (PA19/05930) have completely disregarded Cornwall Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency.
Councillor Tudor, along with Mr Jones, Mr Jolly, Mr Burley and Mr Doble, left the meeting at 7:43pm.
(iv) Flat 3, 3 Strangways Terrace (4) (PA19/08949) Approval recommended for Listed Building Consent (retrospective).
Proposer: Councillor Wells Seconder: Councillor Ellis
(v) Truro Tennis Pavilion and Café, Boscawen Park (5) (PA19/09069) Approval recommended subject to any guttering and downpipes being a neutral colour (grey or green) instead of red.
Proposer: Councillor Ellis Seconder: Councillor Vella
(vi) The Old Store, St Clements Hill (6) (PA19/09165) Unanimous refusal recommended due to inadequate accommodation in a cramped unit, potentially dangerous parking, and highways issues (e.g. stepping straight out of the door onto a very narrow pavement right next to traffic, and potential for any debris from the roof garden falling into the road).
Proposer: Councillor Nolan Seconder: Councillor Ellis
(vii) 10 Rosewin Row (7) (PA19/09468) Approval recommended for the removal of wall to create openings for the installation of French doors, in line with the Truro Conservation Area Advisory Committee’s comments that state ‘approval subject to the UPVC being sympathetic to the setting 156
and the threshold being reduced to the width of the door. Members also commented that they did not want this to set a precedent on the street and felt this an exception to the rule.’
Proposer: Councillor Wells Seconder: Councillor Ellis
(viii) 16A Walsingham Place (8a) (PA19/09628) Unanimous approval recommended for Listed Building consent.
Proposer: Councillor Ellis Seconder: Councillor Pascoe
(ix) 16A Walsingham Place (8b) (PA19/09630) Unanimous approval recommended for the advertisement consent.
Proposer: Councillor Ellis Seconder: Councillor Pascoe
(x) The Cabin, Park Farm, St Clement (9) (PA19/09838) Unanimous approval recommended for the sustainable dwelling.
Proposer: Councillor Vella (Chairman)
The Chairman congratulated the architect for a creative, innovative design.
Mr Bateman left the meeting at 8:10pm.
(xi) Aldi Supermarket, Highertown (10) (PA19/09864) Unanimous refusal recommended for the variation of condition 11 for the same reasons the City Council has given for all the previous applications requesting similar, and in support of the neighbours’ objections. This is the seventh application to alter hours of operation. Heavy vehicles manoeuvering in a small space, adjacent to dwellings, on Sunday has always been wholly unacceptable.
Proposer: Councillor Wells Seconder: Councillor Webb
(xii) 10 Rashleigh Vale (11) (PA19/10040) Unanimous approval recommended for the crown raise, in line with the Tree Officer’s comments.
Proposer: Councillor Mrs Swain Seconder: Councillor Wells
(xiii) Carb Mab, Quarry Lane (PA19/09565) Approval recommended for the single storey rear and side extensions to existing dormer bungalow.
Proposer: Councillor Pascoe Seconder: Councillor Webb
Councillor Nolan wished for his name to be recorded as abstaining from voting on the above recommendation. Councillor Vella (Chairman) wished for his name to be recorded as having voted against the above recommendation.
157
269 CONSULTATIONS (i) Home Office Consultation – Strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorized encampments Members were asked to consider responding to a Home Office Consultation regarding strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorized encampments, as noted in a briefing from the National Association of Local Councils (NALC). The closing date for comments was 19 February 2020.
Further to discussion, it was proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman)
RESOLVED that Members consider the consultation documentation and for the item to be placed on the agenda for the Planning Committee meeting to be held on Thursday 2 January 2020.
Councillor Nolan commented he would investigate the current status of Cornwall Council providing adequate sites for travelers and report back to the Committee.
(ii) A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross (Highways England, Scottish Powers, R Renewables UK & Western Power Distribution PLC) Members to consider responding to an application for an order granting development consent for the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross Scheme. Comments to be submitted by 12 December 2019.
Following brief discussion, it was proposed by Councillor Ellis, seconded by Councillor Vella and unanimously
RESOLVED that Truro City Council supports the application for an order granting development consent for the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross Scheme.
270 LANGARTH STAKEHOLDER GROUP The Chairman reported that minutes from the Langarth Stakeholder Group were now available online on Cornwall Council’s website via the following link: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/planning/langarth-garden- village/langarth-stakeholder-panel/
The Chairman commented that there was current debate over whether the Garden Village should have a single centre, or three or more centres, each with its own character, as well as debate over access.
Councillor Nolan commented that to provide green space, some buildings would need to be approximately six stories to achieve the number of dwellings being proposed. This comment was disputed by the chairman.
271 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT The Chairman had nothing to report as it had already been covered during the meeting.
272 CORRESPONDENCE There was no correspondence to report as it had been circulated via email during the month.
158
The meeting closed at 8:35pm.
------CHAIRMAN
159
Schedule 1
PLANNING APPLICATIONS – FOR THE MEETING OF 5 DECEMBER 2019 SCHEDULE 1 – To Receive a Single Recommendation for the Entire Schedule at the Meeting. If Members of the Planning Committee wish for an application to be transferred to Schedule 2, please inform the Chairman and Clerk by Thursday 28th November at 5pm for it to be included on the agenda. Please use material planning considerations only. If the recommendation already states “transfer to schedule 2” there is no need to comment further on this application until the meeting.
Application Details Proposal Ward Comments from Case Officers Recommendation from Chairman/ Vice-Chairman & Councillors PA19/07921 Full planning application for the Kenwyn Matthew Doble: Schedule 2 Land at Maiden Green, development of 78 bed hotel with A3/A5 Threemilestone uses on the ground floor, a drive through R J Walker restaurant (A3/A5), pump station, access, parking, landscaping, infrastructure and associated works. PA19/08925 Prune back T1, T2 and T4 – Blackthorn and Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Approval recommended, Land to the rear of 3 Hazel, and T3 Oak. Removal of subject to work to T3 Brewers Road undergrowth/brambles around tree bases (common Oak) being Ms Julie Powell and fence. T5 – not under TPO (Horse confined to that agreed Chestnut planted by neighbour). with CC Tree Officer.
PA19/09069 Demolition of the existing tennis pavilion Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Schedule 2 Truro Tennis Pavilion and removal of café with the construction of and Café, Boscawen a new café, changing rooms, office/storage Park space and public toilets and changing place. Mr Budge, Truro City Council PA19/09565 Single storey rear and side extensions to Tregolls Claire Broughton: Approval recommended Carn Mab, Quarry Lane existing dormer bungalow. Mr Robert Cowie
1
Schedule 1
PA19/09165 Change of use of redundant store to 1 bed Tregolls James Moseley: I have not yet visited the Schedule 2 The Old Store, St residential dwelling including formation of site on this one, so cannot confirm my final Clements Hill roof garden with balustrading thoughts. Mrs Nicola Halse However, looking at the information submitted and on mapping, the principle of a property in the location would be acceptable. There are possible technical concerns which I shall need to consider on site; access seems poor, but I have consulted the highway officer on this point. Amenity space to accompany the development appears minimal, and insufficient for a detached new unit. This risks a cramped unit, which could be jarring in the surrounding context. On a positive side to the proposal, the existing building seems to contribute little to the visual value of the area, so there would be scope to improve the setting in this respect.
PA19/09954 Tree Works to T1 Sycamore subject to a Trehaverne Camellia Bullingham: Refusal recommended 85 Penwethers Crescent Tree Preservation Order because there is a lack Mr Alex Atkins, AA Tree of justification for the & Garden Services extent of the crown reduction.
PA19/09864 Variation of condition 11 (delivery Trehaverne Claire Broughton: Schedule 2 Aldi Supermarket, restriction) in respect of decision notice Highertown PA17/05050 – to allow the store to receive Aldi Stores Limited deliveries between 0800 hours and 1900 hours on Sundays and Bank Holidays
2
Schedule 1
PA19/05390 Comprehensive development comprising Kenwyn Matthew Doble: Schedule 2 Land North of A390, class A1 foodstore, non-food retail units, Threemilestone restaurants, new site accesses, car parking, Mr W Marsh landscaping and associated works
Members to consider additional information received from Cornwall Council in connection with the above application (this application was discussed at the meeting of the committee on 5 September 2019 PA19/05390). Comments to be submitted by 6 December 2019.
PA19/09468 Proposed removal of wall below windows to Boscawen Claire Broughton: Schedule 2 10 Rosewin Row create opening for the installation of French Mr and Mrs Collenette doors
PA19/09838 Replacement of a lawful residential home Tregolls James Moseley: Schedule 2 The Cabin Park Farm, St (removed from site) with a sustainable Clement dwelling Mr and Mrs Roberts PA19/10040 Sycamore (T1) – Crown raise from 8 metres Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Schedule 2 10 Rashleigh Vale to 10 metres to allow more light into garden Rule and to prevent lower branches from coming into contact with garden sheds and walls. PA19/10180 Rear extension and internal reconfiguration Boscawen Camellia Bullingham: Approval subject to the 112 Bodmin Road to provide additional bedrooms and living replacement of the Mr & Mrs McGlone space. timber cladding with render, as per the rest of the house and extension.
3
Schedule 1
PA19/09630 Advertisement consent to display 2no fascia Boscawen Claire Broughton: Schedule 2 16A Walsingham Place signs and one hanging sign Mr William Attlee
PA19/09628 Listed Building Consent to paint exterior Boscawen Claire Broughton: Schedule 2 16A Walsingham Place ground floor windows and shop front. Mr William Attlee Installation of 2no fascia signs and one hanging sign.
PA19/08949 Listed Building Consent for the replacement Redannick Janice Taylor: Schedule 2 Flat 3, 3 Strangways of external French double doors from Terrace bedroom to private courtyard and wall Mrs Victoria Calvy around courtyard. PA19/04786 Reserved matters application for Redannick Peter Bainbridge: Schedule 2 Land at Tolgarrick Farm, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale Green Lane following outline consent PA12/07283 for a Mr Simon Wagemakers residential development of up to 320 dwellings, new highway access from Green Lane, landscaping, associated open space and infrastructure
4
Schedule 2
PLANNING APPLICATIONS – FOR THE MEETING OF 5 DECEMBER 2019 SCHEDULE 2 – Applications to be considered at the Meeting.
Application Details Proposal Ward Comments from Case Officers Recommendation from Chairman/ Vice-Chairman & Councillors (1) PA19/07921 Full planning application for the Kenwyn Matthew Doble: Unanimous deferral Land at Maiden Green, development of 78 bed hotel with A3/A5 recommended Threemilestone uses on the ground floor, a drive through R J Walker restaurant (A3/A5), pump station, access, parking, landscaping, infrastructure and associated works. (2) PA19/04786 Reserved matters application for Redannick Peter Bainbridge: Deferral Land at Tolgarrick Farm, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale recommended Green Lane following outline consent PA12/07283 for a Mr Simon Wagemakers residential development of up to 320 dwellings, new highway access from Green Lane, landscaping, associated open space and infrastructure (3) PA19/05930 Comprehensive development comprising Kenwyn Matthew Doble: Unanimous refusal Land North of A390, class A1 foodstore, non-food retail units, recommended Threemilestone restaurants, new site accesses, car Mr W Marsh parking, landscaping and associated works
Members to consider additional information received from Cornwall Council in connection with the above application (this application was discussed at the meeting of the committee on 5 September 2019 PA19/05930). Comments to be submitted by 6 December 2019.
1
Schedule 2
(4) PA19/08949 Listed Building Consent for the Redannick Janice Taylor: Approval Flat 3, 3 Strangways replacement of external French double recommended. Terrace doors from bedroom to private courtyard Mrs Victoria Calvy and wall around courtyard.
(5) PA19/09069 Demolition of the existing tennis pavilion Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Conditional approval Truro Tennis Pavilion and removal of café with the construction recommended and Café, Boscawen of a new café, changing rooms, Park office/storage space and public toilets and Mr Budge, Truro City changing place. Council (6) PA19/09165 Change of use of redundant store to 1 bed Tregolls James Moseley: I have not yet visited the site Unanimous refusal The Old Store, St residential dwelling including formation of on this one, so cannot confirm my final thoughts. recommended Clements Hill roof garden with balustrading Mrs Nicola Halse However, looking at the information submitted and on mapping, the principle of a property in the location would be acceptable. There are possible technical concerns which I shall need to consider on site; access seems poor, but I have consulted the highway officer on this point. Amenity space to accompany the development appears minimal, and insufficient for a detached new unit. This risks a cramped unit, which could be jarring in the surrounding context. On a positive side to the proposal, the existing building seems to contribute little to the visual value of the area, so there would be scope to improve the setting in this respect.
(7) PA19/09468 Proposed removal of wall below windows Boscawen Claire Broughton: Conditional approval 10 Rosewin Row to create opening for the installation of recommended Mr and Mrs Collenette French doors
2
Schedule 2
(8) (a) PA19/09628 Listed Building Consent to paint exterior Boscawen Claire Broughton: Unanimous approval 16A Walsingham Place ground floor windows and shop front. recommended Mr William Attlee Installation of 2no fascia signs and one hanging sign.
(b) PA19/09630 Advertisement consent to display 2no Boscawen Claire Broughton: Unanimous approval 16A Walsingham Place fascia signs and one hanging sign recommended Mr William Attlee (9) PA19/09838 Replacement of a lawful residential home Tregolls James Moseley: Unanimous approval The Cabin Park Farm, St (removed from site) with a sustainable recommended Clement dwelling Mr and Mrs Roberts
(10) PA19/09864 Variation of condition 11 (delivery Trehaverne Claire Broughton: Unanimous refusal Aldi Supermarket, restriction) in respect of decision notice recommended Highertown PA17/05050 – to allow the store to receive Aldi Stores Limited deliveries between 0800 hours and 1900 hours on Sundays and Bank Holidays
(11) PA19/10040 Sycamore (T1) – Crown raise from 8 Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Unanimous approval 10 Rashleigh Vale metres to 10 metres to allow more light recommended Rule into garden and to prevent lower branches from coming into contact with garden sheds and walls.
3
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE HELD THURSDAY 2 JANUARY 2020 at 7.00 pm
PRESENT: Councillors Biscoe, Mrs Carlyon, Ellis, Pascoe, Ms Southcombe, Mrs Swain, Vella, (Chairman) Webb and Wells
APOLOGIES: Apologies for absence were reported from Councillors Biscoe, Ellis and Tamblyn
Also in attendance: Councillor Rich, Mr Martin Wilkins (member of the public, against), and Mr John Marshall (Planning Consultant for the developer, for) (60 Tregolls Road, PA19/10271). There were also half a dozen members of the public (not speaking) in attendance to listen to the above application.
287 DISCLOSURES OR DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST (PA19/10352) 79 Lemon Street (Minute 289 (b) (8), page 168) Councillor Mrs Carlyon declared an interest due to Mr Carlyon being the freeholder of 78 Lemon Street.
(PA19/10512) Cemetery, Kenwyn (Minute 289 (a), page 166) Councillor Wells declared an interest due to being the Vice-Chairman on the Trustees Board for the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Kenwyn with St Allen.
288 MINUTES The Minutes of the meeting held 5 December 2019, were read and considered a correct record.
289 PLANNING CONSULTATION (a) Schedule 1 Further to all Councillors of Truro City Council being given the opportunity to submit comments to applications in their Ward (by an agreed deadline), and for Members of the Planning Committee to comment on this Schedule prior to publication of the agenda for this meeting, it was proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman) that it be unanimously
RESOLVED that the recommendations contained within Schedule 1, as proposed by the Chairman, be adopted by the Planning Committee.
(b) Schedule 2 The Committee considered plans submitted in accordance with the planning consultation procedure, details of which are attached (Schedule 2), and, that it be
RESOLVED that Cornwall Council be informed of the following recommendations as voted upon by Truro City Council’s Planning Committee: -
(i) 60 Tregolls Road (1) (PA19/10271) Unanimous refusal recommended for the Outline application with some matters reserved on the grounds of:
(i) overdevelopment of the site. The proposal does not respect the existing street- scene, fundamentally altering the appearance of the estate and therefore public perception of this part of Truro; (ii) the loss of green space (with little potential of any green space being added due to the exclusion zone around the sewer);
166
(iii) lack of consideration to the existing Highway . Turning space, and provision for deliveries would need to be provided for new dwellings; (iv) the site being a high flood risk due to being in a critical drainage area. The topography, along with the proposed addition of hard surfacing, would add to the surface water run-off. A detailed analysis of the water run-off as existing would be helpful; (v) failing to create a design that respects the context of the local area (including use of existing local materials such as that from the proposed demolition of the barns); (vi) the proposal being contrary to the principles of the original development; (vii) concerns over land ownership, over the wall entrance (the removal of one side would render the purpose —that of a feature— useless), and the removal of trees prior to any works being approved (a re-planting scheme seems to be omitted from the proposal).
Members invite the applicant to come back with a scheme that respects the local area, understands that quality of life for residents is important, and addresses the City Council’s previous concerns surrounding climate change and air pollution.
Proposer: Councillor Vella
Following the recommendation, Councillor Rich, the speakers, and all members of the public left the meeting at 7:35pm.
(ii) Land at Tolgarrick (2) (PA19/04786) Unanimous refusal recommended for the reserved matters application on the grounds of:
(i) inadequate play area provision, within a suitable distance from the dwellings, and inadequate public open space (the 4-metre strip along the bottom of the site is not considered to be public open space); (ii) overcrowding, due to the dwellings being crammed into this phase of the development (due to lack of affordable housing being provided in the first), which Members consider provides an inadequate quality of life; (iii) ongoing concern over the management of foul drainage and surface water run-off on site; (iv) lack of storage space for bins and recycling as efficiency of design is vital; (v) concerns of modern life not being considered, such as measures to mitigate climate change, and there being no provision for a community centre
Members also wondered whether the management company, which is cited as being responsible for maintenance on site, has been set up.
The Committee is sympathetic to the need for affordable housing but not at the compromise of quality of life and feel the Design Review Panel provided comments that gave strong grounds for refusal of this application. Members invite the applicant to come back with a scheme that addresses the above concerns, as well as those outlined in previous comments from the City Council.
Proposer: Councillor Vella
(iii) Land Adjacent to Lamorran, Old Falmouth Road (3) (PA19/09402)
Councillor Smith left the room at 7:55pm and returned at 8:00pm.
Approval recommended for the demolition of three existing buildings and replacement with a single storey sustainable dwelling on the condition of adequate mitigation to prevent excess surface water run-off from the site. In addition, any new hard surface should be permeable, and any topsoil removed during excavation should be retained for use on site. 167
Proposer: Councillor Wells Seconder: Councillor Vella
Councillor Mrs Carlyon wished for her name to be recorded as voting against the above recommendation.
(iv) Land to the North of Lamorran, Old Falmouth Road (4) (PA19/09403) Unanimous refusal for the construction of two infill single storey dwellings, in line with the comments from the case office that the propose development would have an unacceptable impact on highway safety contrary to CLP Policy 27.
Proposer: Councillor Mrs Swain Seconder: Councillor Wells
(v) Unit 8, Nalders Court, Pydar Street (5) (PA19/09750) Unanimous approval recommended for Change of Use, subject to outdoor seating and tables not being allowed into the Court accessway or out onto the Leats area, in line with the comments from the Truro Conservation Area Advisory Committee.
Proposer: Councillor Pascoe Seconder: Councillor Mrs Swain
(vi) 26 Boscawen Street (6) (PA19/10007) Unanimous approval recommended for the installation of new refrigeration plant and redecoration of shop front subject to soundproofing measures being put in place to prevent the refrigeration plant from creating noise pollution, and to appropriate screening for the plant to improve the visual impact, as per the comments from the Truro Conservation Area Advisory Committee.
Members would welcome a separate advertisement application should the fascia board changes include signage.
(vii) 11 Treyew Road (7) (PA19/10060) Refusal recommended for the demolition of the existing building and proposal for a new 3 storey building on the grounds of it being an entirely inappropriate design that is inappropriate for the location.
Members are in favour of this type of development in principle, but the design should be aesthetically sympathetic to its unique location in Truro, incorporating local elements and materials.
Proposer: Councillor Vella
Councillor Ms Southcombe wished for her name to be recorded as having voted against the above application.
(viii) 79 Lemon Street (8) (PA19/10352) Refusal recommended, in line with the comments in the Case Officer’s letter to the developer, citing comments made by the Conservation Officer that the proposal could not be supported from a historic environment perspective due to harm incurred to the building as a heritage asset and its setting. Members invite a new application that takes these aspects into account.
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Proposer: Councillor Vella
As she had declared an interest in the above application, Councillor Mrs Carlyon wished for her name to be recorded as having abstained from voting.
(ix) Boscawen Park, Malpas Road (9) (PA19/10480) Approval recommended, but Members would like to see a replanting plan please.
Proposer: Councillor Vella
Councillor Mrs Carlyon wished for her name to be recorded as having voted against the above recommendation.
(x) 12 Cathedral View, Kenwyn (10) (PA19/10818) Unanimous approval recommended subject to the removal of the cladding and the rendering on the chimney.
Proposer: Councillor Mrs Swain Seconded: Councillor Pascoe.
290 CONSULTATIONS (i) Conservation Applications Report (Appendix 3) Members considered a report suggesting that due to the reformation of the Truro Conservation Area Advisory Committee (TCAAC), and the importance of their comments informing applications that the Planning Committee may consider at their meetings, revising the schedules of the Planning agenda may be prudent to ensure an efficient ongoing cycle of the Planning Committee. This would allow for ward members to comment in the month, and subsequently recommendations made (as per the current schedule 1) but also allow for applications within the Conservation Area to be revisited at the Planning Committee meetings should comments from the TCAAC merit further discussion.
Following discussion, it was proposed by Councillor Vella and unanimously
RECOMMENDED that the proposal, as outlined in Appendix 3, be adopted by the Planning Committee, subject to approval from Council.
(ii) Home Office Consultation – Strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorized encampments Further to Minute 269 (i), page 158 (05.12.19, Planning Committee) and Minute 275 (iv), page 161 (09.12.19, Council), Members were asked to consider responding to a Home Office Consultation regarding strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments, as noted in a briefing from the National Association of Local Councils (NALC). The closing date for comments was 19 February 2020.
Further to discussion, including points about leaving vehicles on private land, concern over lack of suitable organised sites for travelers, as well as concern over the ‘one size fits all’ approach of the consultation document, it was proposed by Councillor Vella (Chairman) and
RESOLVED that, with permission of the Mayor, the above item be placed on the agenda for Council to consider on Monday 27 January 2020.
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291 LANGARTH STAKEHOLDER GROUP The Chairman reported the next stage of the consultation on Langarth was underway and there had been a display in the Pydar Street pop-up shop at the end of November. Members expressed ongoing concern regarding the Stadium, and the cumulative impact of the sites where proposals were being considered piecemeal, as well as concern over whether parish councils were being listened to. The Chairman commented that no development should take place until queries over the sewage had been answered satisfactorily.
The Committee Clerk confirmed there would be a second presentation, to which all Councillors would be invited, providing an update on the Langarth Masterplan. This would take place at 7:00pm on Monday 20 January 2020 in Truro Public Library.
292 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT The Chairman had nothing to report as it had already been covered during the meeting.
293 CORRESPONDENCE There was no correspondence to report as it had been circulated via email during the month.
The meeting closed at 9:05pm.
------CHAIRMAN
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Schedule 1
PLANNING APPLICATIONS – FOR THE MEETING OF 2 JANUARY 2020 SCHEDULE 1 – To Receive a Single Recommendation for the Entire Schedule at the Meeting. If Members of the Planning Committee wish for an application to be transferred to Schedule 2, please inform the Chairman and Clerk by Monday 23rd December at 5pm for it to be included on the agenda. Please use material planning considerations only. If the recommendation already states “transfer to schedule 2” there is no need to comment further on this application until the meeting.
Application Details Proposal Ward Comments from Case Officers Recommendation from Chairman/ Vice-Chairman & Councillors PA19/04786 Reserved matters application for Redannick Peter Bainbridge: Schedule 2 Land at Tolgarrick appearance, landscaping, layout and scale Mr Simon Wagemakers following outline consent PA12/07283 for residential development of up to 320 dwellings, new highway access from Green Lane, landscaping, associated open space and infrastructure PA19/10060 Demolition of existing building and proposed Redannick James Moseley: Schedule 2 11 Treyew Road new 3 storey building consisting of 10 No. 2 Mr Paul Sanders, bed apartments Saychette Ltd. PA19/10346 Works to trees subject to a tree preservation Trehaverne Camellia Bullingham: Approval recommended St Marys Church Of order as indicated in attached tree report England School, Higher Trehaverne PA19/10007 Proposal to install new refrigeration plant Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Schedule 2 26 Boscawen Street and redecorate shop front including fascia The Co Op Group boards, window and door frames and rear elevation doors
1
Schedule 1
PA19/10555 Extension, alterations and replacement roof Boscawen Niamh Ashworth: Approval recommended 99 Bodmin Road covering subject to render to Mr and Mrs Roger Maker match existing instead of timber cladding, to preserve the character of the house PA19/10352 Alterations to roof terrace access granted Boscawen Tim Marsh: Schedule 2 79 Lemon Street under PA18/11651 Mr Dewar
PA19/10512 Various works to trees subject to a TPO Trehaverne Camellia Bullingham: Approval recommended Cemetery, Kenwyn Mr Martin Wright
PA19/10271 Outline application with some matters Tregolls Martin Woodley: Schedule 2 60 Tregolls Road reserved for erection of 8 detached Kingsley Developments properties (4 x 3 bed and 4 x 4 bed) (SW)
PA19/10525 Proposed improved vehicular access, loft Trehaverne Camellia Bullingham: Approval recommended Penavon, Kenwyn conversion and extension to garage subject to no sustainable Mr Tomlinson and Miss objections from Layton neighbours.
2
Schedule 1
PA19/09402 The demolition of three existing buildings Redannick James Moseley: I did a positive pre- Schedule 2 Land adjacent to and replacement with a single storey application on this site in relation to the Lamorran, Old Falmouth sustainable dwelling principle of a new dwelling on the site, Road suggesting it would be previously developed Mr S Musgreaves land. At that stage there were no final designs. I would therefore suggest the primary issue here in my view is the visual impact, extent of the site, and any incursion into the countryside beyond the area which would be “previously developed land”. There are potential cumulative impacts in respect of highway safety given the expectation of access to Arch Hill to the north – I didn’t raise these at pre-application however, given it could be difficult to argue a single dwelling represents the tipping point where the highway impacts on that junction are no longer acceptable. PA19/09403 Construction of two infill single storey Redannick Tim Marsh: Although it appears to be Schedule 2 Land To The North Of dwellings otherwise acceptable, in light of the Highway Lamorran Old Falmouth Officer's advice on and subsequent refusal Road last month of application PA19/07923 for 6 Lamorran (Truro) Ltd. dwellings at Langweath Lodge a couple of hundred metres further to the north on Old Falmouth Road, in my opinion it is likely that the increase in the number of vehicles from this proposed development will be found to result in an unacceptable impact on highway safety contrary to CLP Policy 27. PA19/09750 Change of use from A1 (retail) use to also Boscawen Camellia Bullingham: Schedule 2 Unit 8 Nalders Court, allow alternative A3 (restaurant/café) and Pydar Street A4 (drinking establishment) uses Mr Tim Cooper, The Sullivan Trust
3
Schedule 1
PA19/10818 Construction of a rear single storey Trehaverne Janice Taylor: The application relates to the Schedule 2 12 Cathedral View, extension with associated internal construction of a single storey rear extension Kenwyn remodelling and cladding to the main dwelling. The rear Mr Cooper extension is subservient and appears to have limited impact on the street scene. The extension has a flat roof and the existing property has a high boundary fence, so it is unlikely that the proposal would cause significant overshadowing or overlooking to the neighbours.
PA19/10480 Works to trees – Site A: Fell ten small to Tregolls Janice Taylor: Schedule 2 Boscawen Park, Malpas medium Monterey Pines; Site B: Fell two Road Corsican Pines and two Scots Pines Mr Barry Cooper
4
Schedule 2
PLANNING APPLICATIONS – FOR THE MEETING OF 2 JANUARY 2020 SCHEDULE 2 – Applications to be considered at the Meeting.
Application Details Proposal Ward Comments from Case Officers Recommendation from Chairman/ Vice-Chairman & Councillors (1) PA19/10271 Outline application with some matters Tregolls Martin Woodley: Refusal 60 Tregolls Road reserved for erection of 8 detached Kingsley Development properties (4 x 3 bed and 4 x 4 bed) (SW) (2) PA19/04786 Reserved matters application for Redannick Peter Bainbridge: Refusal Land at Tolgarrick appearance, landscaping, layout and scale Mr Simon Wagemakers following outline consent PA12/07283 for residential development of up to 320 dwellings, new highway access from Green Lane, landscaping, associated open space and infrastructure
(3) PA19/09402 The demolition of three existing buildings Redannick James Moseley: I did a positive pre-application Conditional Land adjacent to and replacement with a single storey on this site in relation to the principle of a new Approval Lamorran, Old Falmouth sustainable dwelling dwelling on the site, suggesting it would be Road previously developed land. At that stage there Mr S Musgreaves were no final designs. I would therefore suggest the primary issue here in my view is the visual impact, extent of the site, and any incursion into the countryside beyond the area which would be “previously developed land”. There are potential cumulative impacts in respect of highway safety given the expectation of access to Arch Hill to the north – I didn’t raise these at pre-application however, given it could be difficult to argue a single dwelling represents the tipping point where the highway impacts on that junction are no longer acceptable.
1
Schedule 2
(4) PA19/09403 Construction of two infill single storey Redannick Tim Marsh: Although it appears to be otherwise Refusal Land To The North Of dwellings acceptable, in light of the Highway Officer's Lamorran Old Falmouth advice on and subsequent refusal last month of Road application PA19/07923 for 6 dwellings at Lamorran (Truro) Ltd. Langweath Lodge a couple of hundred metres further to the north on Old Falmouth Road, in my opinion it is likely that the increase in the number of vehicles from this proposed development will be found to result in an unacceptable impact on highway safety contrary to CLP Policy 27.
(5) PA19/09750 Change of use from A1 (retail) use to also Boscawen Camellia Bullingham: Conditional Unit 8 Nalders Court, allow alternative A3 (restaurant/café) and Approval Pydar Street A4 (drinking establishment) uses Mr Tim Cooper, The Sullivan Trust (6) PA19/10007 Proposal to install new refrigeration plant Tregolls Camellia Bullingham: Conditional 26 Boscawen Street and redecorate shop front including fascia Approval The Co Op Group boards, window and door frames and rear elevation doors
(7) PA19/10060 Demolition of existing building and Redannick James Moseley: Refusal 11 Treyew Road proposed new 3 storey building consisting Mr Paul Sanders, of 10 No. 2 bed apartments Saychette Ltd.
(8) PA19/10352 Alterations to roof terrace access granted Boscawen Tim Marsh: Refusal 79 Lemon Street under PA18/11651 Mr Dewar
(9) PA19/10480 Works to trees – Site A: Fell ten small to Tregolls Janice Taylor Approval Boscawen Park, Malpas medium Monterey Pines; Site B: Fell two Road Corsican Pines and two Scots Pines Mr Barry Cooper 2
Schedule 2
(10) PA19/10818 Construction of a rear single storey Trehaverne Janice Taylor: The application relates to the Conditional 12 Cathedral View, extension with associated internal construction of a single storey rear extension Approval Kenwyn remodelling and cladding to the main dwelling. The rear Mr Cooper extension is subservient and appears to have limited impact on the street scene. The extension has a flat roof and the existing property has a high boundary fence, so it is unlikely that the proposal would cause significant overshadowing or overlooking to the neighbours.
3
3
Conservation Applications Report
Background Summary Further to the recent reformation of the Truro Conservation Area Advisory Committee (TCAAC), it has become apparent that it is beneficial that the comments made by the TCAAC inform the Planning Committee during consideration of Conservation Area applications at the Planning Committee meetings. To maximise efficiency, the TCAAC meetings take place the same week as the Planning Committee meetings. However, conforming to legislation, the agenda for the Planning Committee meetings is issued prior to the meeting dates of the TCAAC. To date, comments from the TCAAC have been read out at the Planning Committee meetings, and in the main, this has worked well. However, as became apparent at the December meeting of the Planning Committee, an application that had been placed on Schedule 1 for approval had been considered by the TCAAC two days prior, and important information that could potentially change the recommendation made by the Planning Committee had come to light. In this instance, during the meeting the Chairman made the decision to move the application from Schedule 1 to Schedule 2, to be considered at the meeting. Planning procedures, that had been agreed following months of trial and error when Cornwall Council ceased issuing paper plans, specifies that as applications on Schedule 1 have been considered (via email) by the Planning Committee within the month, an ‘en bloc’ recommendation should be made at the meeting without further discussion. This, therefore, does not allow for applications to be moved to Schedule 2 at the meeting, and while the Chairman is able to exercise powers to do this, there is the potential for this to happen regularly with applications within the Conservation Area and therefore undermine the current processes of dealing with applications.
Recommendation Following consideration, it is recommended the Committee resolves to split Schedule 1 into two parts: 1. Schedule 1a) which will contain all applications not in the Conservation Area, which, as before, will be considered within the month prior to the Planning Committee meetings and recommendations for each application submitted with the agenda. At the meetings, Schedule 1a) will then be proposed ‘en bloc’ as before; 2. Schedule 1b) will contain all applications within the Conservation Area and all Listed Building applications. As above, recommendations will be considered within the month and a recommendation submitted with the agenda. However, these applications are subject to further consideration by the Planning Committee as felt necessary at their meetings, dependant on the comments made by the TCAAC that will be tabled/read out at each meeting. Current Planning Committee procedures will be amended to reflect the above.
MEETING OF THE PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) HELD ON MONDAY 6 JANUARY 2020 AT 7.00PM IN THE TRAINING ROOM, TRURO COMMUNITY LIBRARY, UNION PLACE, TRURO
PRESENT: Councillors Ms Southcombe (Chairman), Allen, Biscoe, Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, Ellis, Mrs Neale, Smith, Tamblyn and Wells.
APOLOGIES: Apologies for absence were submitted on behalf of Councillor Mrs Butler and Mrs Callen.
Also in attendance: Roger Gazzard - Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer Richard Budge - Parks and Amenities Manager
294 DISCLOSURE OR DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no disclosures or declarations of interest reported.
295 PUBLIC CONVENIENCES Working Group Appendix A A report by the Compliance Officer was tabled at the meeting and presented by the Parks and Amenities Manager. The Parks and Amenities Manager reported detailed cost estimates for work following the redesign of the Green Street toilets were not forthcoming from the quantity surveyor, so an alternative course of action was suggested. A typographical error was corrected to indicate Boscawen Park toilets had been shut from 31 December 2019 to 1 January 2020 due to staff illness. The urinal at Boscawen Park would be replaced later in the New Year. It was also reported former Toilet Team member of staff, Mr Paul Trevaskis, had sadly passed away during the Christmas break.
During discussion, a few matters were raised including: i. In response to a query raised by a Member, the Parks and Amenities Manager clarified design Option 2 for the Green Street toilets included doors to the gentleman’s facility opening the opposite way to that currently. ii. A member expressed concern ventilation appeared not to have been addressed in the new design options and suggested this be included. In response, the Parks and Amenities Manager commented the design of the current urinals exacerbated the issue of foul odours. He agreed to include this factor in a revised design. iii. Members preferred a public noticeboard rather than a mural be installed on the exterior of the building. The Town Clerk also suggested an external drinking fountain be included in a revised Option 2 design. iv. In response to a query about project funding strategy, the Town Clerk agreed to include an explanatory paragraph in the final draft Estimates report to be considered by Council on 27 January.
It was moved by Councillor Ellis, seconded by Councillor Biscoe, and
RECOMMENDED that the Parks and Amenities Manager: a) Meet with Cornwall Council to discuss the detailed redesign plans for the Green Street toilets, proposed parking for disabled people and security etc; b) Include improved ventilation, a public noticeboard and external drinking fountain in a revised Option 2 design for the Green Street toilets; c) Arrange for full plans for revised Option 2 to be drawn up by the Council’s contracted architects; d) Update disabled public convenience users with progress; e) Conduct a tender exercise for design Option 2 for the Green Street toilets; f) Produce a project plan for the works (referred to above); and g) Report back to a future meeting of the Parks and Amenities Committee.
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PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) – 6 JANUARY 2020
296 ESTIMATES 2020/2021 The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer reported on the draft Estimates, having been previously circulated. He pointed out the draft estimates resulted in a 6.9% increase in the Precept for 2020 – 2021 over the 2019 - 2020 charge. The Taxbase had increased from 6,963 in 2019 – 2020 to 7,090 for 2020 – 2021. He explained the resultant increase to the public was 4.9%. The overall summary of net revenue expenditure was set out on page 15.
Parks and Amenities Committee Estimates The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer drew attention to paragraph 3 page 29 and the staffing structure for the Parks and Amenities Department and clarified the PA to the Parks and Amenities Manager and Administrative Assistant both continued to be line-managed by the Town Clerk.
Summary of Net Revenue Spending He reported, with reference to page 30 paragraph 6, the reasons for changes to Net Revenue Spending including: There was slippage in the receipt of interest on S106 planning agreements. Cornwall Council would not be transferring allocated funding of £309K until the land at Newbridge Lane field had been registered in the name of the City Council at the Land Registry, and this had been delayed. Income generated from the sponsorship of highways was anticipated to commence in January following the sponsorship of Tregolls Roundabout and Waterloo Bank and Tesco roundabout (report to be considered by the Parks and Amenities Committee at its next meeting on 10 February). Public Cemetery fee income had been reduced following a reduction in the number of burials over recent years. Referring to page 29 paragraph 4, although Central Government had previously expressed its commitment to the removal of business rates on public conveniences the relevant legislation had been delayed. He anticipated this change was likely to come into effect by 1 April, so this had been reflected in the draft Estimates; however, he acknowledged this was a risk. Staff cost savings had been made in the Café in the Park; however, a reduction in sales of £15k this year and £6k next year was anticipated. The Café was due to be relocated when work to redevelop the tennis pavilion took place (hopefully later on in 2020) and this might also have an impact on income. Finally, in relation to pay awards, he reported staff on the National Living Wage would be uprated from £9.00 to £9.30 per hour from 1 April. Following the recent General Election, negotiations on the Green Book Pay Award (affecting other staff) were currently delayed until the Autumn but would be backdated.
A number of matters were raised as follows: i. In response to a query raised by a member about the cost of equipment of the planned new pavilion, the Town Clerk reported this cost had been built-in to the project specification. He updated the Committee on the planned project budget strategy and agreed to the drafting of an internal project plan document. The Town Clerk also reported he had been advised earlier that Cornwall Council, the Planning Authority, required a further drainage survey as part of the planning application; therefore, it was now anticipated works might not begin until the Autumn. ii. The Parks and Amenities Manager advised, following the resignation of the Assistant Countryside Ranger, he was in the process of reviewing and possibly redesigning the countryside ranger service/ role in consultation with the Countryside Ranger. iii. A Member suggested, following the successful campaign led by Falmouth Town Council for the abolition of business rates on public conveniences and the continuing high cost of water rates, the Town Clerk be requested to lead a campaign for the provision of a free or discounted water supply to public conveniences and engage with organisations such as South West Water (SWW), OFWAT (economic regulator of the water sector in England and Wales). Local Government Association (LGA), Cornwall Council (CC).
It was moved by Councillor Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, seconded by Councillor Smith, and
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PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) – 6 JANUARY 2020
RECOMMENDED that, power be delegated to the Town Clerk to lead a campaign for the provision of a free or discounted water supply to public conveniences and engage with organisations such as South West Water (SWW), OFWAT (economic regulator of the water sector in England and Wales). Local Government Association (LGA), Cornwall Council (CC).
Parks Committee Capital Fund The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer reported the Vehicle and Plant Capital Fund had been increased with inflation and would be kept under review; however, consideration of a small increase might be required in the future. The allocated figure for resurfacing (the tennis courts) in 10 years’ time was a requirement of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) as part of their grant terms. [An update on the replacement tennis pavilion project is set above.]
Additional Items [The first public convenience redevelopment matter was considered separately, prior to this agenda item at Minute 295 above.]
Schedule of Fees and Charges 2020 - 2021 The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer reported on the schedule of proposed fees and charges on pages 38 - 41. The introduction of the on-line tennis court booking system had been successful and a small increase in annual household membership of £1.00 was recommended; other sports facilities charges remained unchanged. Cemeteries and Churchyard charges were recommended to increase by current inflation. The Parks and Amenities Manager commented the limited changes recommended by the Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer reflected the Council’s aim to encourage and increase participation in use of its services and facilities. He acknowledged some services e.g. changing facilities at Boscawen Park were currently poor, but a plan was being developed to improve those facilities.
It was also recommended annual allotment rentals increase by 1p (from £0.30 to £0.31) from 1 April 2021. The Parks and Amenities Manager also reported the charge for tubs would increase from £25.00 to £35.00 to reflect the increased plant capacity (compared to window boxes) and the hire of planted tubs would increase from £30.00 to £35.00 to reflect the costs of the purchase of specialist plants and delivery.
Application for the use of Hendra Playing Field The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer reported since the agenda had been published, an application for the use of Hendra Playing Field for NoFit State Circus (in association with the Hall for Cornwall) from 20 May to 5 June had been received. An early decision was sought by the event organisers (prior to the next scheduled Committee meeting on 10 February). Shows were planned for Tuesdays to Saturdays (not Sundays or Mondays). Work to set up the site would start on 15 May and the site would be cleared by 12 June. Copies of the application form were circulated to the Committee for information. In view of the proposed revised charges for events in parks and gardens (including a charge of £1.00 per ticket sold) the Town Clerk advised he would negotiate an appropriate fee with the event organisers. The views of the Committee were requested.
During discussion: i. A Councillor suggested any discounted tickets should be made available to the residents of the Truro City Parish, e.g. determined by postcode. ii. Concern was also raised by Members that an approximate event transport plan be provided to the Council in view of the residential location of the playing fields and the on-street residents’ parking schemes which limited the availability of parking.
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The Town Clerk agreed this document would be required to be provided by the event organiser.
The Town Clerk suggested to the Committee that if it was supportive of the application, he would grant permission (subject to the usual terms and conditions) under the power delegated to him under Standing Order 16 b. Matters of Urgency, following consultation with the Mayor and Chairman of the Parks and Amenities Committee. The decision would be reported back to the Committee for information. The Committee expressed its support for the grant of permission, subject to the two points referred to above, in addition to the usual terms and conditions.
Statement of Funds & Reserves- Parks Committee Fund The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer updated Members on the projected Available Resource on 31 March 2021. In response to a query raised by a Member, he advised anticipated operational costs in running the Nursery at its new site at Idless had been built in at the same level as the existing nursery; further, the Nursery needed to be established and working before efficiencies could be assessed. However, he acknowledged potential extra new costs were a risk, but the assumption made was in 2020 – 2021 the same numbers of plants would be grown as in 2019 – 2020; and therefore, operating costs would be the same. The Town Clerk and Parks and Amenities Manager agreed to report back to Finance and General Purposes Committee the assumptions made in drawing up this estimate.
It was moved by Councillor Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, seconded by Councillor Smith and
RECOMMENDED that: 1. The Revised Estimates for 2019 – 2020 be approved. 2. The Estimates for 2020 – 2021 be approved. 3. The Financial Forecasts for 2021 - 2022 and 2022 - 2023 be agreed in principle. 4. The contributions to the Capital Funds set out on page 31 be approved. 5. The Schedule of Fees and Charges for set out on pages 38 - 41 be approved, subject to the following amendment: Inclusion of “community groups” and an appropriate definition in the rates for charities set out on pages 40 – 41.
297 EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC It was proposed by the Chairman, and
RESOLVED that in accordance with s1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item by reason of its confidential or special nature.
298 NEW STAFF ACCOMMODATION - BOSCAWEN PARK DEPOT/ NURSERY The Parks and Amenities Manager, at the request of the Mayor, reported back to the Committee on the result of the tender exercise for works to create new staff accommodation at Boscawen Park Depot/ Nursery. A number of questions were asked by Members and answers provided by the Parks and Amenities Manager. Following due consideration:
Return of Press and Public It was proposed by the Chairman, and
RESOLVED that the press and public be invited back into the meeting.
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PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE (ESTIMATES) – 6 JANUARY 2020
In accordance with Standing Order 16(b) - Matters of Urgency, and due to the new staff accommodation works due to commence the following week, Councillor Mrs Eathorne- Gibbons proposed, and Councillor Smith seconded, and
RESOLVED that the tender from Truro Building Services, for works for New Staff Accommodation - Boscawen Park Depot/ Nursery, be accepted by Truro City Council.
300 DATE OF NEXT MEETING – PARKS AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE The Chairman confirmed the next Committee meeting would be held on Monday 10 February 2020 starting at 7.00pm.
The meeting closed at 8.05pm
------CHAIRMAN
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Parks and Amenities Committee Appendix A 6 January 2020 Item 4
Public Conveniences
Public Conveniences Working Group
The Public Conveniences Working Group met on 25 November 2019 to consider the plans drawn up by Lavigne Lonsdale in regard to The Green Toilet. The preference was the Option 2 (attached) design which makes use of the current back of house area. However, this design involves more work and possibly more cost.
Ed Crossley and Associates were asked to prepare a budget estimate but have advised today that they are unable to provide. Therefore, the Committee is requested to consider the following course of action:
• Meet with Cornwall Council to discuss plans, disabled parking, security etc; • Full plans to be drawn up by architects; • Update disabled users with progress; • Conduct a tender exercise for both designs; and • Produce a project plan for the works.
Discussions extended to the exterior of the building and how it could be used in a way that incorporated local community groups. The suggestion was made that community groups could propose mural designs and the Council could choose from the designs which could be displayed for 6 months.
Public Conveniences – Closures
Boscawen Park (31 January – 1 February) – staff sickness. Boscawen Park (3 – 4 January) – Drains blocked.
Boscawen Park Toilets
The Gentleman’s urinal facilities will be replaced in the toilets at Boscawen Park as they are no longer fit for purpose. The installation will be done by a plumber, but the Maintenance Team can ‘make good’ where the old urinal removed. This work will be scheduled in the next 6 weeks.
Sad News
We received some sad news over the Christmas break that a retired member of staff, Paul Trevaskis, had passed away, he was part of the team that came across when Truro City Council took over the public conveniences. Several members of staff will be attending the funeral to pay their respects. Paul was a long-standing member of our Team and he will be missed.
Kate Bell Compliance Officer
6 January 2020
FINANCE COMMITTEE (Estimates) – 13 JANUARY 2020
MEETING OF THE FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE HELD ON MONDAY 13 JANUARY 2020 at 7:00 pm
PRESENT: Councillors Wells (Chairman), Smith (Mayor), Biscoe (Deputy Mayor), Mrs Callen, Mrs Carlyon, Mrs Eathorne-Gibbons, Rich, Roden and Ms Southcombe
Also in attendance: Roger Gazzard, Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer Ms Joanne Trevelyan, Financial Officer Councillor Allen Taren-Lee Corin, Events coordinator Caitlyn Martin, Office apprentice
APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs Cox (Vice-Chairman) and Mrs Stokes
301 DISCLOSURE OR DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Councillor Wells (Chairman) declared an interest in matters relating to Young People Cornwall (YPC) on the grounds of him being a director and trustee of the organisation. Councillor Wells (Chairman) declared an interest in matters related to Kenwyn & St Allen parochial church council on the grounds of his role as vice Chairman.
302 MINUTES The Minutes of the meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee held on 18 November 2019, having been before Council on 09 December 2019, were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a correct record.
303 TRURO EVENTS The Events coordinator presented the schedule of events for 2020 – 2021 with the estimated time required for the preparations and the delivery of each event. Members were requested to note that all events were executed solely by the current event coordinator who did not have any further capacity to deliver any additional events in 2020. With a continual expectation to deliver additional events, the level of involvement and work needed to execute them successfully could not be offered. The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer highlighted that an events assistant to support the events coordinator would create time for events to be planned, delivered and all necessary administration managed successfully. An events assistant would be partly funded by Truro City Council and the Business District Development (BID) team on the condition that a number of BID’s events were taken on by the TCC events team. Councillors agreed that events in the city would have a positive impact when town centres were on a steady decline. Councillor Mrs Carlyon suggested that, in her opinion, members would need to meet with the Events Coordinator to discuss and strategically plan for events and to establish where money spent to employ an additional member for the events team could be recovered to the Council through increased revenue. The Events Coordinator agreed, that with more time available, she would create a long-term strategic plan that would be aligned with the Council’s long-term plan for the town. Councillor Smith (Mayor) highlighted that this plan would be devised through consultation with the recently created Truro Youth Council. The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer assured Councillor Mrs Carlyon that marquees would be paid for by the external event organisers and not the City Council. The City Council would be liable to pay to hire a marquee only when it would be used for an event that the City Council delivered. Councillor Mrs Callen expressed disappointment as to the level of new events planned for the coming year and highlighted that the City Council could perhaps take revenue for operating events alongside the planned events being organised by external organisers. Councillor Mrs Callen continued to request details regarding the carousel that had been a permanent form of children’s entertainment for a number of years. The
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FINANCE COMMITTEE (Estimates) – 13 JANUARY 2020
Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer confirmed that the carousel had a licence in place and that its position depended on the location the City Council allocated it. Members of the Committee discussed the necessity of creating events all around the city not just on Lemon Quay in an attempt to bring people into the city. Members considered how encouraging people to live in the city would also bring life back to the city and events such as the BID fashion show facilitated trade for local business and independent retailers. Members were keen for this, and similar events that promoted the city, be developed. The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer confirmed that the Cheese shop near St Georges Road had agreed that a notice board be erected and that this would soon be ordered. Additional notice boards would be erected outside Hendra Shop, the Green toilets once refurbished and another outside the library main entrance; following listed building consent. This would be an asset for the City Council whilst the main Council notice board outside the Municipal Buildings had been covered by scaffolding.
Councillors thanked the Events coordinator for attending the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting and it was noted that the proposed additional member of staff was included in the estimate figures.
304 TOWN CLERK/RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REPORT DRAFT ESTIMATES 2020/2021 The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer introduced and presented the Finance and General Purposes Committee with the draft Estimates report for 2020/21, having been previously circulated. He confirmed that the Parks and Amenities Committee estimates had been approved with two subjects particularly being discussed. Idless Nursery The nursery would open next year, and operations were discussed with a view of the costs of power and water. The budget reflected the same costs as the current year with a view to this changing when commercially growing and selling more plants could be increased. The operational costs would also increase as a result of this. Green Street toilets Designs for the refurbishment of the toilets had been considered although a budget price had yet to be received from the advisors. There was currently a budget of £10k which had been a contribution linked to the 10-year plan and would fund repayments on £120K of borrowing for the refurbishment work. There was a statutory restriction on the minimum amount of borrowing based on the number of electors in a town; approximately £80k. Based on this, and dependent upon the budget price for the Green Street refurbishment, the Council may need to add the refurbishment of a second toilet block prior to applying for borrowing approval.
The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer presented the Finance and General Purposes Committee estimates highlighting the following points. Social Prescribing The Social Prescriber had not been allocated a budget as the project would end in the early summer; the latest six-month report would be presented to the Finance and General Purposes committee meeting in February. Stakeholders believed that this initiative had been a great success and, due to the success of the work, Feock parish council had been selected to move to the ‘Haire’ project; an initiative to bring the elderly and children together. Some members voiced concern as to the continuation of some of the initiatives that had brought benefits to Truro residents. They highlighted that residents had attended the groups instead of using their GP and volunteers had invested time to get the support up and running and they felt concern about would happen to the attendees if the groups were to stop. This project had been taken on by the City Council and partners and there would be a responsibility towards attendees and their wellbeing.
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FINANCE COMMITTEE (Estimates) – 13 JANUARY 2020
The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer believed that the NHS would support the City Council and continue to support initiatives based on the social prescribing project should the council decide it would like to continue some elements of the project. In his opinion some stakeholders in the wider health economy had not recognised the importance or the contribution Town Councils could make in the increase in social prescribing work in the community and therefore money had not been set aside in their budgets to continue it. Councillors discussed whether the community development team would have any capacity to support the running of the groups that had been created to support the social prescribing project based on the assumption that the NHS would be unable to address the social prescriber project for at least 12 months. The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer confirmed that he would contact the NHS to enquire about their commitment and support to invest in the continuation of the initiatives created in support of the Social Prescriber project. In addition, he would circulate the six-month report to all councillors prior to the Council Precept meeting. National Pay Award The City Council pays employees the ‘Living Wage Foundation Wage rate as a minimum’ and this would increase on 1 April to £9.30 per hour. However, the National Pay Award for other employees would not be reviewed until the autumn at the earliest but an estimate for this had been built into the budget for this. All payments would be backdated to the 1st April once a decision had been made. The three-year pension actuarial review had stated that the pension fund was at a positive level and had agreed that pension contributions, currently 18.75%, would not increase over the next three years; nor would the lump sum payment of £24,500. Changes to the budget During the next financial year, the offices would return to the Municipal Buildings in December and the 2021-2022 budget would require an additional £36k to move back. Once this happened there would also be an increase in insurance and loan repayment costs needed for the 50% the Council had been charged for the building works. Councillor Biscoe (Deputy Mayor) requested a schedule of work and a report reflecting the works that had, and would be done, so Councillors had a good understanding of where the money would be spent. Municipal Offices Cornwall Council had reimbursed to the City Council the income lost to not having the possibility to hire out the rooms in the Municipal Offices. This had been anticipated for the following year. Tourist Information Centre (TIC) Since moving to the new premises TIC revenue had increased substantially. Overheads continued to be high, but a retail surplus had been made which members felt were promising. The Truro Guide had made a loss and discussions were currently underway to find a way to move forward to further reduce costs; this could include reducing the guide to one per year. Moresk Centre The Council had agreed to the devolution of this building and £88k would be taken from the property fund with a view to repaying it back over a period of five years, to refurbish the building and bring it to a good standard of use. The agreement with Churches Together in Truro had been to provide financial support for them to manage the building for the first two years. Tenders were being prepared for the refurbishment of the building. Library A saving had been made due to the delay in the devolution of the service and building but there had been an increase to staffing costs going forward that had not been anticipated in the budget. There are currently five tenants in the library building that generated rent for the Council and, in 2021 when the leases ended, would be reviewed to include some service charges. Money had been transferred from the revenue account £240k had been ring fenced and was in the reserved account until the Council chose how to use it.
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FINANCE COMMITTEE (Estimates) – 13 JANUARY 2020
Library rooms Some members questioned whether the revised costs for library room hire would exclude community groups from using them. The increased costs would become an obstacle for community groups and would not reflect the library as a community service. The Events Coordinator highlighted that she had explored rates for room hire in the City and should the room costs be reduced then the rooms would become booked for community groups and the Council would not be using them as a method to receive income. She highlighted that there were other rooms available to hire around the City one being the Pydar Pop-up which when used, confirmed to Cornwall Council the need for it remaining as a community asset. Council Rich highlighted that there were other spaces available where community groups could meet including Trelander community centre, the People’s Palace and the Malpas centre; sometimes free of charge. In his opinion any of these meeting places could be offered to potential groups seeking a meeting place in Truro. The proposed pricing for hiring library rooms would ensure that the rooms were not taken over by charities and other alternative meeting places should be offered at the time of enquiry. Councillor Wells (Chairman) highlighted that it would be important to consider the detriment to the Council with a reduction of the room hire costs in reflection of the upcoming increase in council tax. Should room hire be reduced the Council would need to demonstrate the necessity of this. Councillor Roden reflected upon the rates in the estimates for the Municipal Buildings and confirmed that he had been approached by some organisations stating that the costs to hire rooms in the library were relatively high and had needed to resort to organising meeting spaces outside the City. After discussion Councillor Roden proposed, seconded by Councillor Smith (Mayor) and
RECOMMENDED that (i) The rate for the Municipal room hire for charities and community groups in the estimates report be used for the Library room hire for the next year
The Town Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer asked members of the Committee to consider the levels of contributions proposed to the Finance committee funds.
Following discussion, it was moved by the Chairman and
RECOMMENDED that (i) the revised estimates for 2019-20 be approved; (ii) the estimates for 2020-21 be approved; (iii) the financial forecasts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 be agreed in principle; (iv) contributions to the Committee Funds be approved.
305 CORRESPONDENCE No correspondence was received
The meeting closed at 8:33 pm
------CHAIRMAN
179 Truro City Council
Estimates Report 2020-21 & Financial Forecasts 2021-23
Draft for Council
Roger Gazzard Town Clerk
Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Contents Introduction ...... 1 Corporate Objectives ...... 2 Action Plan ...... 3 Financial Estimates Overview ...... 8 Finance & General Purposes Committee Estimates ...... 15 Parks & Amenities Committee Estimates ...... 29 Statement of Funds & Reserve ...... 42
Estimates 2020-21
Introduction
1 The purpose of this report is to enable members to make an informed decision regarding the financial requirements of the Council over the next three years, with particular emphasis on the Precept for the next financial year. It also reviews the current year’s financial position and recommends changes to the approved estimates.
2 The last Council elections took place in May 2017 and the next will be in May 2021. The next financial year will therefore be a last full year in terms of the life of this Council.
3 The Council is acutely aware of the need to minimise increases in cost to the Council Tax payer. The recommendations and financial plans in this report will result in the charge to Council Tax payers for 2020-21 increasing by some 4.9% (£12 per annum for Band D) over the 2019-20 charge.
4 The report analyses the Council’s current financial position, including actual income & expenditure for the last financial year, and the money set aside in both the Revenue and earmarked reserves. It therefore enables the Council to make informed decisions on the following matters: -
• Changes needed to the current financial year’s estimates. • The Precept required for the next financial year. • The likely effect of the action plan on future Precepts and Capital Expenditure. • The level of Revenue Reserve and earmarked funds needed for the future. • The technical and legal changes that have affected the Precepting process
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Corporate Objectives
These are agreed annually as part of the estimate setting process: -
Mission Statement
“To continually improve services and provide a better quality environment for people to live, work and visit, constantly improving the local parks and amenities, which contribute towards a feel good factor, a healthy lifestyle, and improve the socio-economic standard.”
Corporate Objectives
To provide a leadership role for the community and promote and enhance the economic, environmental, cultural and social well-being of the City of Truro for the benefit of its residents, business and visitors.
To enable people residing, working or visiting the City to enjoy a meaningful, pleasant and safe time.
To provide, and maintain where appropriate, facilities where everyone can enjoy their leisure time within the City.
To continue to operate the Council in an efficient, economic and sustainable manner, seeking if possible to improve its performance and to continue to adopt good employment practices.
To provide assistance and encouragement to groups within Truro in the promotion and development of their activities, including the pursuit of grant assistance.
To provide an opportunity for people living and working within the City of Truro to influence the work of the Council by means of consultation and partnership.
To support sustainable growth within the City Centre to serve the day-to-day shopping, leisure, business, service, cultural and educational needs of the local community both for people who live and work in the City and visitors. To develop the relationship and the links between the Newham Industrial Estate and the City community.
To ensure that all the Council’s initiatives are sustainable.
To support and consult the community in achieving involvement in and being responsible, for its own development and sustainability.
To strengthen community management and local empowerment. Truro City Council will work with Cornwall Council to implement Devolution of services and assets as appropriate.
To support the financial and reputational position of the council by delivering high quality contracted services in accordance with agreed terms.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Action Plan
In order to focus the attention of the Councils activities upon the agreed objectives an action plan is below. This is a live Plan which will change with the requirements of the Council and respond to external influences: -
Corporate Objective Action proposed Date To be Achieved Responsible by To provide a leadership To provide an active Ongoing Mayor role for the community Mayoralty and promote and enhance the economic, To continue to provide a Ongoing TIC managers environmental, cultural destination marketing service and social well-being of for the City, including the City the City of Truro for the Guide. benefit of its residents, business and visitors. Continue to provide and Ongoing Town Clerk support events and activities to generate footfall in the City
Continue to provide burial space in the City and Ongoing Town Clerk maintain the public cemetery to a high standard.
To consider opportunities to increase freehold/leasehold Ongoing Town Clerk interests in properties where the use of the property would assist in the delivery of these objectives. Any proposal to include a full business case.
To work closely with other providers of public services in the City; including Cornwall Ongoing Town Clerk Council the Police and Health & Social Care
To encourage the setting up and ongoing work of voluntary groups; particularly Ongoing Town Clerk resident groups, horticultural Parks & Amenities groups and environmental Manager groups. Community Development Officer. To continue to provide a high standard of floral decoration in the parks, gardens, and City Centre. To enter the Competition judging in Parks & Amenities RHS South West in Bloom July 2020 Manager competition in 2020 to provide external benchmarking.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
To support and carry out maintenance of the Leats Parks & Amenities system and other monuments Ongoing Manager and memorials in the City.
To continue to provide consultation responses to planning applications in the City. To seek a greater role in the planning system. Town Clerk To support Youth work in the Ongoing City.
To support public transport in the City where there is a direct benefit to residents and Town Clerk visitors. Ongoing
Town Clerk Ongoing
Town Clerk Ongoing
To enable people To continue to operate the Ongoing Town Clerk residing, working or Public open space CCTV visiting the City to enjoy system a meaningful, pleasant and safe time. Provide Grant funding to Ongoing Town Clerk voluntary organisations working in the night time economy.
Continue to provide public Working party currently Parks & Amenities conveniences to serve the considering future Manager and City Centre and our parks & provision. Compliance Officer gardens. Review the future level of provision in the City Centre.
Continue to provide and Parks & Amenities maintain City Centre street Ongoing Manager furniture to a high standard.
To provide facilities To maintain and develop the Ongoing Parks & Amenities where everyone can sports and leisure facilities Manager enjoy their leisure time under the control of the within the City Council. Working with sports clubs.
To operate a pay and play Ongoing Parks & Amenities policy where appropriate and Manager to maintain charges for
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
sporting activities at an affordable level. New Pavilion by end Town Clerk/ Parks & To replace the Tennis September 2020 Amenities Manager pavilion. Develop Treffry Road allotments by end Town Clerk/ Parks & To maintain and increase the September 2020. Amenities Manager existing stock of Allotments. To continue to operate To ensure the continuance of Continue to work in Town Clerk the Council in an the administration during the Library efficient, economic and period of absence from the sustainable manner, Municipal Offices. seeking if possible to improve its performance To continue to adopt the and to continue to adopt “General Power of good employment Competence” Ongoing Town Clerk practices. To review the office administration procedures to minimise use of paper. Recommendations Town Clerk To review the Employment being introduced. Policies and Procedures and adopt Job Profiles. To be implemented by Town Clerk/ Parks & To continue to be a Living April 2020 Amenities Manager Wage employer.
To increase the percentage Town Clerk of income the Council gains Ongoing from contracts and services in order to contribute to the Town Clerk costs of services. 2019-20 – 19% 2020-21 – 21% To work on the Parks 2021-22 – 23% Development Plan for the 2022-23 – 25% next 2, 5, and 10 years. To include: - Boscawen Park Parks & Amenities Developments To be complete by Manager Victoria Gardens June 2020 Improvement Scheme Completion of Idless Nursery.
To minimise the use of pesticides and herbicides in line with operational requirements.
Parks & Amenities Ongoing Manager
To provide assistance To continue to provide Ongoing Town Clerk and encouragement to financial support, particularly groups within Truro in using the “Community grants” the promotion and and “Community Events” development of their budgets.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
activities, including the pursuit of community To continue support through assistance. the Community Development Community function. Ongoing Development Officer
To provide an To continue active Ongoing Town Clerk opportunity for people participation in partnership living and working within organisations such as the City of Truro to “PACT”, Truro Safe, BID, and influence the work of the City of Lights. Council by means of consultation and To continue to allow the partnership. public to speak at Council Ongoing Town Clerk meetings.
To continue to support resident and community Ongoing Community associations. Development Officer
To develop and support “friends of…” groups to Parks & Amenities support the operations of the Ongoing Manager parks, gardens and open spaces.
To set up and facilitate a Mayor/ Community Youth Council, and to Youth Council set up Development Officer increase the feedback from January 2020 young people to influence the future direction of the City Council.
To provide information on the Town Clerk work and organisation of the Council Maintain the “Know your Council” portfolio To support sustainable To operate a Tourist Ongoing TIC Managers growth within the City Information service providing Centre to serve the day- information for visitors and to-day shopping, leisure, residents alike. business, service, cultural and educational To liaise closely with Truro Ongoing Town Clerk needs of the local BID, Newham BID, and the community both for Chamber of Commerce to people who live and maximise the opportunities work in the City and and benefits of partnership visitors. To develop the and joint working. relationship and the links between the Newham Industrial Estate and the City community.
To ensure that all the To ensure that major projects As required Town Clerk Council’s initiatives are are backed by a full financial sustainable. and environmental plan, together with a risk assessment.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
To support and consult To continue the Community Ongoing Community the community in Worker Project and support Development Officer achieving involvement in for Community Groups. and being responsible, for its own development Continue support for the Town Clerk and sustainability. Twinning Associations. Ongoing
Work in partnership with voluntary and community Community organisations to localise the Ongoing Development Officer provision of services.
To monitor planning applications to ensure Town Clerk compliance with Neighbourhood Plan. Ongoing
To work with Kenwyn Parish Council to review the Town Clerk Neighbourhood Plan. Draft complete by end To work with Cornwall June 2020 Council and local organisations to consider the development of the Pydar Town Clerk Street Site. Timetable determined by Cornwall Council To strengthen To work with Cornwall As required Town Clerk community management Council to secure devolution and local empowerment. of assets and services in Truro City Council will accordance with our work with Cornwall objectives. All devolution Council to implement items to have a full business Devolution of services plan. and assets as appropriate. Where assets have been As required Community devolved to work with the Development Officer local community to maximise the benefit to the community.
To support the financial To ensure third party Ongoing Town Clerk position of the council by contracts ae delivered to a Parks & Amenities delivering a high quality high quality with a financial Manager contract service in surplus. accordance with agreed terms.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Financial Estimates Overview
1 The estimates are split into the two spending committees of Parks & Amenities and Finance & General Purposes. Within the Committee structure they are further analysed into operational areas.
2 As in previous years the estimates are analysed as follows; -
• The costs of carrying out the current level of services which is analysed into the Committees and detailed in the report. After taking into account estimated income the net cost of this is described as the “Net base expenditure” at line 12 on page 14.
• In addition to this figure the Council has a number of funds with the function of providing money for specific projects or commitments. In each year the Council has to decide the level of contribution it wishes to make to each. These contributions are added to the Net Base Expenditure in order to arrive at the Precept figure.
3 I have included a projection of the Council’s financial position for the two years following the budget year in order that members may more fully consider the impacts of external changes in finance which may impact upon the Council and influence the Precept in future years.
4 The financial position of the Council is satisfactory coming into the current financial year and the funds and reserve, on page 42, show a total balance of £967K (previous year £900k) of which £183k (previous year £183K) lies in the Revenue Reserve. (This balance includes the agreed transfer of sums precepted for the library transfer being taken to an earmarked fund.) This Reserve provides a contingency against unanticipated expenditure and for cash flow purposes. The Revenue Reserve is different from the other funds, as it is not earmarked for any project or commitment. It is, therefore, a particularly good measure of the state of the finances.
5 The largest single item of expenditure of the Council is the cost of employment with salaries and wages accounting for over 50% of the total revenue costs. Year on year the Council has limited control over these costs for the following reasons:
• Pay awards are negotiated nationally. • The Council is committed to the final salary pension scheme by nationally agreed terms and conditions which in recent years have required significant increases in the level of contribution. The fund is subject to a triennial review by the actuary. This was carried out based on the figures at April 2019 and had resulted in contribution rates continuing at the 2019-20 level for the next three years. This is described in paragraph 11.
6 It is important to note that as in previous years the City Council is required to Precept the Principal Authority, Cornwall Council, a fixed sum of money and that is the amount that the City Council will receive. The Principal Authority has to collect the Precept from the taxpayers and carries the risks and rewards of collection.
In deciding how much to charge for each property the Principal Authority has to make some assumptions. Firstly, it has to consider what percentage of the council tax it charges will in fact be collected. Cornwall Council is assuming a 99.10% collection rate in 2020-21 (2018-19 99.10%). Secondly, the number of properties that will be chargeable has to be calculated. This is based upon the position at September in the current year. This is known as the Band D tax equivalents and is 7,155.33 for 2020-21 (7,026.70 in 2019-20). The combined impact of this is an increase in Tax base from 6,963.46 in 2019-20 to 7,090.93 in 2020-21, equivalent as shown 8
Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
on page 14. This reflects the revenue that will be raised for each £1 charged per property. Therefore, the amount we precept Cornwall Council could increase without any increase to individual Council Tax payers. This explains why the proposal is to increase our Precept by 6.9% but the resultant increase to the public is 4.9%.
7 The government has now for a number of years applied the Council Tax referendum principles to Cornwall Council and other principal authorities. In 2016-17 it consulted on widening the legislation to cover Town and Parish Councils but the legislation has not been widened, and therefore it does not apply to our 2020-21 estimates.
Localised Council Tax Support
8 Starting on 1st April 2013, Council Tax Benefit was replaced by a Localised Scheme for Council Tax Support, which was designed and approved by Cornwall Council as the billing authority.
Support will be provided in the new system to council tax payers by way of discounts in their bill, which will have the effect of reducing the council tax base. Pensioners will receive the same entitlements under the local scheme as under the current system, but the discounts awarded to both pensioners and working age claimants will constitute reductions to the tax base. Cornwall Council approved a local scheme at its meeting on 29 January 2013.
The Government has agreed that billing authorities will be provided funding in the Local Government Finance Settlement for the local precepting element of council tax support to Town and Parish Councils. Whilst the amount is paid to the principal council, in our case Cornwall Council; both the government and Cornwall Council view this as a “pass through” amount and Cornwall Council pass on 100% of the money it receives. Our figure for 2020-21 is £58k (£64k in 2019-20) which is shown on line 19 on page 14. We are expecting a further reduction of 10% year on year. This figure has become particularly significant as we have to absorb the reduction within our precept.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
9 The City Council currently has the following loans as shown in the table below.
Purpose Loan Start Term Amount Outstanding provider Date (years) of at 31 March Loan 2019 £ £ Boscawen P.W.L.B. 31.3.2016 15 77,000 65,863 Park Sewage Works Tennis Court Lawn 1.4.2019 10 60,000 60,000 Project Tennis Association Tennis Court P.W.L.B 30.4.2019 15 250,500 0 project Idless P.W.L.B Approved, 30 320,000 0 Nursery not drawn Development down
(Note: P.W.L.B. is the Public Works Loans Board)
In addition, the Estimates allow for a loan of £235,000 to be taken out in 2020-21 to pay for the external repairs to the Municipal Buildings.
10 The Council is supportive of promoting micro-generation/energy conservation in principle, and of campaigns for a low carbon society. It has declared a climate change emergency. It has taken advice and considers sustainability in development proposals as well as reviewing existing operations.
Net Base Expenditure
11 The individual committee pages provide a detailed account of the changes to the estimates from the figures agreed a year ago. However, it is worth noting a number of changes which have had a significant impact across the Council as a whole: -
• The annual pay award for employees is implemented in April of each year and is the result of national negotiations. The settlement for April 2019 has been implemented at an increase in pay rates of 1% on average. The increase for April 2020 has yet to be agreed by the national negotiators and an assumption of an average of 3% has been built into the estimates.
• The terms and conditions of employees of the Council include a number of employees who are paid the “living wage”. It was a Council policy adopted in 2015-16 to pay the living wage. In 2019-20 the rate per hour was £9.00. I have included in the estimates the increase to £9.30 per hour from 1st April 2020 which has been determined by the Living Wage Foundation.
• The Council’s contribution to the Pension fund has increased in recent years. The Fund Actuaries carry out a triennial valuation that determines the contribution rate for the following three years. The contribution level paid by employees is nationally set. As far as employer rates are concerned these are split into two figures. The first is a percentage of pensionable pay and this funds the ongoing increase in liabilities of the scheme resultant from the employee working. The second, is a lump sum paid by the employer, which reduces the current deficit in the fund between the values of the assets eg. Stocks and shares and the value of the anticipated liabilities of the funds which are future pension payments to ex-employees. For the current year
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
the percentage of pensionable pay is 18.7% plus a lump sum of £24,500. Following the actuary’s review of the scheme at the 1st April 209 these figures will remain as they are for the next three years: -
Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Future Contribution 18.7% 18.7% 18.7% Annual Deficit payment £24,500 £24.500 £24,500 Additional cost - Nil Nil
• Inflation on costs has remained under control nationally and the Consumer Price Index (November 2018 to November 2019) is quoted as showing a 2.0% increase (3.0% increase in 2018). I am proposing that we allow 2% for price inflation in the 2020-21 year except for specific budgets where we believe there will be a different figure.
Contributions to Funds
12. In addition to this figure the Council has to consider the contributions to the funds. In doing so it needs to consider future projects and any changes to policy. These are shown in lines 13 to 16 on page 14 and an explanation within the individual Committee reports.
Additional Services/Assets
13. During the past few years the Council has been in discussions with Cornwall Council regarding a number of potential increases to services and its assets through the devolution and localism process. However, following the transfer of a number of services and assets in the past two years there are currently no further areas for devolution in active discussion. Therefore, there are no provisions in the accounts for any costs associated with devolution. All costs and income are built into the estimate figures.
Transfers: -
Current Year
• Truro Library Building • Truro Library Service • Moresk Day Centre • Newbridge Lane Open Space
2018-19
• Hendra Hall • Zebs building • Lemon Quay Management. • Kenwyn Hill playing field. • Coosebean Land
14 In addition to the specific items above there is the following policy matter which need to be considered.
The question what level do we consider is reasonable for the Revenue Reserve of the Council? We have long considered that a figure of 10% of the expenditure of the Council is sufficient,
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
particularly when supported by earmarked reserves, some of which are not committed and therefore could be brought into use in an emergency. However, this does not meet the statutory guidance of between three and twelve months of expenditure. The current balance of the Revenue Reserve stands at £183k which is 10.5% of Precept given our current range of services, governance and risks that our current level is adequate, but we should keep this under review when considering the allocation of any variations from planned expenditure at the year end.
Risks
15 In setting the budget the Council should note a significant risk which we are currently facing. This results from the impact of the re-development of the Hall for Cornwall on our accommodation in the Municipal Offices.
The Council has recognised that the works are of a significant benefit to the economy and culture of the City moving forward but will have an impact upon us as an organisation.
This risk is described in more detail in the Finance & General Purposes committee section of the report.
To date the risks have been covered in the estimates. The Tourist Information Centre moved to its new location in the Summer of 2018 and the property costs going forward are provided in the estimates. Other staff including corporate and parks management have moved into the library building. Disruption to services was kept to a minimum. The ongoing risk, however, is that we still do not have the final costs for repair works to the external structure of the Municipal Offices which we are legally obliged to pay 50% of the total. Whilst we have a fund with a balance of £131k set aside our latest anticipated costs are over £300k. We will have to borrow for the balance and repayment costs for this are in the estimates.
Strategy
16 The proposed budget balances the need to provide an efficient and quality service whilst keeping the costs to the Council tax payer at a minimum.
17 In summary the proposals to the Committees will result in a Precept rise of £121k. The impact upon a Band “D” property Council tax is £12 per year, an increase of 4.9%.
The details of increases lie in the Committee figures but in summary:-
£’000 Inflation on Pay and Prices 61 Devolution Costs re Library 33 Loss of One off grant: Library 20 Additional Events Post 15 Moresk Day Centre 12 Savings in business Rates -20 Total 121
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
18 What is not apparent from the figures is the level of efficiency savings achieved in the last twelve months. This has taken the form of direct cost savings such as savings on staff appointment and procurement savings, particularly resulting from the work of the Parks Maintenance Team, and importantly absorbing additional workloads without increasing staff. We continue also to in part absorb inflationary increases. I have deliberately not valued this as it is subjective in some cases.
However, work has begun to consider how to generate significant, long term, and sustainable reductions to the precept requirements. One area in particular is to consider utilising the legal freedom offered by the “General Power of Competence” to set up a trading arm of the Council in the form of a limited company; with the objective of generating a profit which would provide dividend income to the Council. The most beneficial time to commence trading will be when the new nursery is in operation.
There are two areas of current work which could be expanded in this way to provide significant benefits: -
• The Parks department is recognised for achieving horticultural standards of national championship standard; largely from plants grown in our nursery. • The Tourist Information Centre has successfully provided services to a third-party organisation for a number of years and potentially there is scope for additional commercial work in this area.
Resolutions
1 agreement to the Corporate Mission Statement and Objectives. 2 that the Council agree the Action Plan 3 that the revised estimate for 2019-20 is approved. 4 that the estimates for 2020-21 are approved. 5 that the Precept is set at £1,862,334 for 2020-21 6 That the financial forecasts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 are agreed in principle.
Roger Gazzard Town Clerk January 2020
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
TRURO CITY COUNCIL 18-Dec-19
Estimates 2020-21 & Financial Forecasts 2021-23
Overall Summary of Net Revenue Expenditure 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Actual Approved Revised Estimates Forecast Forecast Estimates Estimates Ref £ £ £ £ £ £ Finance & General Purposes 1 Corporate/Democratic & Planning 289,048 314,260 295,638 294,340 343,588 352,339 2 Tourist Information Centre 124,560 93,520 109,638 112,809 117,720 121,918 3 Community Work 115,243 140,460 124,028 141,153 150,511 149,943 4 Truro Library 0 115,500 85,000 174,721 182,176 189,766 5 Lemon Quay -9,820 -31,000 -12,183 2,450 2,988 4,128 519,031 632,741 602,121 725,474 796,982 818,095 Parks Committee 6 Allotments 10,324 7,725 7,813 8,247 8,397 8,604 7 Churchyards 16,660 15,877 17,373 17,163 17,439 18,070 8 Public Cemetery 41,862 36,305 45,954 48,861 49,584 52,072 9 Parks & Open Spaces 694,908 730,248 744,112 760,621 772,827 802,386 10 Public Conveniences 139,451 153,760 143,825 143,568 147,083 150,313 11 Café in the Park 25,043 -3,179 5,279 -832 2,199 5,383
928,248 940,736 964,356 977,627 997,529 1,036,828
12 Net Base Expenditure 1,447,279 1,573,477 1,566,477 1,703,102 1,794,512 1,854,923 Funds & Reserves 13 Finance Committee Revenue Fund 33,100 33,400 33,400 29,700 36,000 36,300 14 Finance Committee Buildings Fund 27,000 57,400 41,400 41,800 42,200 42,800 15 Parks Committee Capital Fund 130,400 143,100 143,100 145,800 148,000 150,200 16 Revenue Reserve 73,496 0 0 0 0 0 17 Net Expenditure 1,711,275 1,807,377 1,784,377 1,920,402 2,020,712 2,084,223 Add 18 Devolution 20,323 0 23,000 0 0 0 19 less Council Tax Support Grant 71,705 64,443 64,443 58,068 52,261 47,035 20 Precept 1,659,893 1,742,934 1,742,934 1,862,334 1,968,450 2,037,188
Increase in Precept 6.9%
Impact on Council Tax Payers 2019-20 2020-21 £ £ Precept 1,742,934 1,862,334 Band D tax base 6,963.00 Taxbase 7,090.00 Annual Band D Council tax 250.31 262.67 £12.36 Increase 4.9%
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Finance & General Purposes Committee Estimates ¶
1 The figures below represent the amounts required to maintain the current level of service provision.
2 The services provided by the Committee have increased in the last two years. In 2018-19 the Council entered into a ten year management agreement with Cornwall Council for Lemon Quay and this is the first full year of operations. This is shown as a separate department in the budget to which has been added the events budget previously held in the Community Department.
The main change in the current year results from the completion of the transactions to manage the library service in Truro and the transfer of the freehold/lease for the library building. Once again a separate department has been introduced into the budget. The financial transactions reflect the transfer date of the 1st October for this year and a full year in 2020-21
3 Municipal Buildings
The current year sees a continuing of the temporary accommodation of the corporate and parks management teams in the Truro Library as well as Council meetings. The effect on the estimates is that the property costs have changed significantly. This is temporary and the assumption in the estimates is that we return to the Municipal Offices in the late autumn of 2020.
There remains a significant financial risk relating to the Municipal Building’s repair costs The City Council occupies the main Municipal Office building under the terms of a lease with the freeholder, Cornwall Council. The period of the lease started on the 1st April 1974 and runs for 99 years.
The particularly relevant terms of the lease: -
2(9) “the City Council shall pay one half of the cost of any works of structural repairs in accordance with clause 3(2)”. 3(2) Cornwall Council to keep in good and tenantable condition. (a) The structure of the building comprising the demised premises and in particular the roofs, foundations, and walls and roof lights thereof
During the construction work on the Hall for Cornwall, Cornwall Council has notified us as landlord that it proposes to carry out significant structural repairs to our leased area, particularly to the roof and clock tower. It makes good financial sense to carry out this work as part of a larger contract when the builder will have the infrastructure in place. We have to contribute 50% of the cost. The work has been tendered as part of the main Hall for Cornwall work but identified separately therefore there will be a firm cost for the works. We do not yet know the costs for the works which have commenced and will be completed by April 2020.
We have for some years contributed to a fund to meet the costs or external repairs to the building for just such an eventuality and this will be the first source of finance to meet our obligation. The balance of this fund at 31st March 2020 will be £131k.
I am assuming in the estimates that the repair works result in a charge to us of £320k. The Council has also agreed to change the Town Clock to automatic winding at a cost of £6k. I am further recommending that before the staff or paintings move back in that we carry out painting and decorating. There is also
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council some work that needs to be carried out to the offices. I am allowing a cost of £40k for this work. Therefore, we have a liability next year of £366k and resources of £131k. I have allowed in the estimates for the cost of borrowing the balance of £235k from the Public Works Loans Board in January 2021 for a period of 15years.
There is one additional service request contained within the budget figures. In December the committee considered a report regarding the number of events that we are requested to provide event management services for in the next financial year. I am recommending the appointment of a assistant for our event co-ordinator, the costs for which we would receive a contribution from Truro Business Improvement District in recognition that the post will assist the organisation to deliver its events. An additional sum of £15k has been included for this.
4 I have included below the staffing structure for the committee.
There are 30 employees relating to this Committee amounting to 21.8 full time equivalent positions. The Compliance officer is shown under the Parks Committee but reports to the Town Clerk regarding compliance matters.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
5 Summary of Net Revenue spending
2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 Actual Approved Revised Estimates Estimates Estimates £ £ £ £ Corporate/Democratic & Planning 289,048 314,260 295,638 294,340 Tourist Information Centre 124,560 93,520 109,638 112,809 Community Work 115,243 140,460 124,028 141,153 Truro Library 0 115,500 85,000 174,721 Lemon Quay -9,820 -31,000 -12,183 2,450 Total 519,031 632,741 602,121 725,474
Change from approved budget -30,620 92,733
6 The reasons for the major changes in the above figures are described below: Revised Estimate Estimate 2019-20 2020-21 £ £ Pay Awards & Living Wage Increase 0 18073 Inflation on Prices 0 6150 0 24223 Corporate/Democratic & planning Municipal Offices property Costs 10899 Allocation of Insurance Costs -21074 Loan Costs (Building Repairs) 5050 Rooms Use -20000 -20000 Interest -2300 Salary Allocations 10721 TIC TIC Property Costs 7894 15958 TIC Office Costs 2592 1725 Increased profit on sales. -17000 -19000 Salary Costs 6000 Truro Guide 14732 Library Staff costs 43591 One off Grant 20000 Property transactions -10823 Delay in Devolution -30500 Lemon Quay Staff Costs 15000 Waste management 6000 Event Rentals 8000 Community Moresk Day Centre 11550
Misc -2338 1213 -30620 92733
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
7 Members are asked to consider the following levels of Fund Contributions for next year:
The change to the Election expenses reflects that we have held no elections during the year. The Municipal Buildings Internal Works assume that the moving back in works are met from loan
Page 14 Line 14 Finance Committee Building Maintenance £ £ £ Municipal Buildings 14,200 14,200 14,400 Truro Library 30,000 14,000 14,000 30 Boscawen Street 8,100 8,100 8,200 Zebs 2,550 2,550 2,600 Hendra Hall 2,550 2,550 2,600 0 57,400 41,400 41,800
Page 14 Line 13 Finance Committee Revenue Reserve
Approved Revised Estimate 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 Election Expenses 6,000 6,000 0 MB Internal Works 0 0 2,000 Computers 11,000 11,000 11,200 Community Projects (Matched Funding) 5,400 5,400 5,500 CCTV 11,000 11,000 11,000
33,400 33,400 29,700 8. Recommendations 8.1 to approve the revised estimates for 2019-20 8.2 that the estimates for 2020-21 are approved 8.3 that the financial forecasts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 are agreed in principle. 8.4 that the contributions to the Committee Funds are approved.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Corporate/Democratic & Planning 2018- Vote Description 19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
5000 Salary & Wage Costs 268,362 279,514 279,514 247,236 272,598 280,776 6000 Training/Conferences 1,662 318 1,818 1,324 1,351 1,378 6001 Travelling Expenses 142 556 300 311 317 321 6003 Payroll & Personel Costs 13,032 17,475 17,475 18,257 18,622 18,808 Property 6100 Repair & Maintenance 1,354 0 2,000 1,000 2,020 2,040 6102 Municipal Building Rates 4,681 0 0 6,833 20,500 21,320 6103 Cleaning 334 0 0 100 352 356 6104 Furniture & Equipment 1,812 346 1,046 353 360 364 Supplies & Services 6300 Gas & Electricity 75 0 0 2,166 6,500 6,630 6301 Water 585 0 300 800 1,500 1,515 6306 Health & Safety 5,100 3,560 3,560 3,631 3,704 3,741 6307 Insurance 23,248 24,628 24,628 4,047 4,127 4,169 6701 Audit Fees 4,850 5,783 5,783 5,899 5,899 5,899 6703 Legal Fees 12,709 1,195 1,195 1,219 1,219 1,219 6709 Advertising 756 1,576 1,576 1,608 1,640 1,656 6710 Planning Advice -18 2,101 2,101 2,143 2,143 2,143 Loan Costs (Municipal Offices) 0 0 0 5,050 21,291 21,291 Office Costs 6400 Stationery 2,992 1,615 1,615 1,647 1,680 1,697 6401 Printing 3,604 2,644 2,644 2,697 2,751 2,778 6403 Postages 2,625 1,938 1,938 1,977 2,016 2,036 6404 Telephones 2,283 3,931 1,931 3,010 3,070 3,101 6406 Publications 601 124 124 126 129 130 6407 Computer Costs 13,285 11,377 11,377 11,605 11,837 11,955 6408 Planning Committee Recharge 45,113 46,015 46,015 39,082 39,473 40,657 6409 Bank Charges 3,514 2,550 3,000 3,051 3,051 3,051 Democratic 6600 Mayoral Allowance 7385 7496 7,496 7,721 7,953 8,032 6601 Town Crier & Macebearers 810 817 817 842 842 842 6602 Members Expenses 252 614 614 632 658 684 6603 Civic Functions 2950 3239 3,239 3,336 3,403 3,471 6702 Subscriptions 4225 4330 4,830 4,830 4,830 4,830 6799 Miscellaneous 267 312 200 200 204 206 Gross Expenditure 428,590 424,054 427,136 382,731 446,038 457,095 Income 4200 Use of Rooms 2,756 0 20,000 20,000 33,400 33,734 4401 Interest 2,715 700 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 Recharges to Operations 112,112 108,602 108,005 64,898 65,547 67,513 4900 Miscellaneous 21,959 493 493 493 503 508 Gross Income 139,542 109,794 131,498 88,391 102,450 104,755
Net Expenditure 289,048 314,260 295,638 294,340 343,588 352,339
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Tourist Information Centre
2018- Vote Description 19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast
Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Employees
5000 Salary Costs 99,762 94,458 100,458 116,457 119,951 123,549
6000 Training 641 1,064 1,064 1,085 1,107 1,118
6002 Clothing 0 396 396 404 412 416
Premises Costs
6101 Rent 9,557 25,250 25,250 33,750 35,000 35,000
6102 Rates 16,907 16,033 16,427 16,674 17,341 18,035
6103 Cleaning 1,902 0 1,500 1,500 1,530 1,561
6300 Power & Water 1,805 275 1,775 1,781 1,816 1,852
6100 Repair & Maintenance 1,515 0 4,000 2,000 2,040 2,060
6104 Furniture & Equipment 23,899 0 500 500 510 515
Office Costs
6307 Insurance 0 0 1,900 1,958 1,997 2,017
6400 Stationary 1,587 636 1,700 1,713 1,747 1,764
6401 Printing 741 589 750 762 777 785
6403 Postage 286 1,061 561 582 594 600
6404 Telephone 4,335 1,487 2,487 2,517 2,567 2,593
6407 Computer Costs 452 3,638 2,805 3,711 3,785 3,823
6409 Card charges 1,476 510 2,210 2,220 2,265 2,287 Purchase of Sale Items
6501 Tickets 3,772 6,512 16,512 16,512 16,842 17,011
6502 General sale goods 42,656 45,801 66,801 69,801 71,197 71,909
Miscellaneous
6709 Truro Guide Costs 45,753 32,268 42,000 29,240 29,825 30,123
6722 Events 48,841 50,000 55,000 55,000 55,000 55,000
6799 Miscellaneous 898 1,129 1,129 1,152 1,175 1,186
6408 Admin re charge 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,050 5,101 5,254
Gross Expenditure 311,785 286,107 350,225 364,368 372,579 378,459
Income
4000 Sales 70,920 69,665 109,665 114,665 116,958 118,128
4001 Tickets 9,345 9,353 17,353 17,353 17,700 17,877
4202 Events 67,726 70,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
4201 Rents 4,800 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600
4007 Contract Work 7,500 7,500 7,500 11,500 11,730 11,847
4100 Registration/ Misc Fees 4,000 4,441 4,441 4,441 4,530 4,575
4105 Truro Guide Advertising 21,934 20,028 15,028 17,000 17,340 17,513
Parks re charge-Tennis 1,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000
Gross Income 187,225 192,587 240,587 251,559 254,858 256,541
Net Expenditure 124,560 93,520 109,638 112,809 117,720 121,918
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Truro Library
2018- Vote Description 19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Employees 5000 Salary Costs 0 137,600 94,550 186,720 192,322 198,092 Premises Costs 6002 Protective Clothing 100 200 200 6100 Repair & Maintenance 0 19,500 18,000 12,000 12,240 12,607 6102 Rates 0 23,100 11,300 24,024 24,985 25,984 6103 Cleaning Materials 0 0 0 500 505 6300 Power & Water 0 20,000 13,000 20,000 20,400 20,808 6303 Equipment & Materials 0 0 0 500 500 500 6307 Insurance 0 6,000 4,500 9,077 9,259 9,444 Supplies & Services Waste Collection 0 3,000 1,500 3,000 3,060 3,091 Miscellaneous 6408 Admin Re-Charge 0 5,000 2,500 5,000 5,050 5,202
Gross Expenditure 0 214,200 145,350 260,421 268,516 276,433
Income 4201 Rents 0 48,700 24,350 53,700 53,700 53,700 4200 Room lettings 0 14,000 8,000 16,000 16,320 16,483 4202 Fees and Charges 0 16,000 8,000 16,000 16,320 16,483 Grant 0 20,000 20,000 0 0 0
Gross Income 0 98,700 60,350 85,700 86,340 86,666
Net Expenditure 0 115,500 85,000 174,721 182,176 189,766
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Lemon Quay/Events
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Expenditure 5000 Salaries & Wages 12547 26000 27,206 52,892 54,479 56,114
Property 6100 Repair & Maintenance 1,895 1,000 1,000 1,020 1,040 1,051 6103 Cleaning & Waste management 0 0 0 6,000 6,120 6,120
Supplies & Services 6300 Gas & Electric 286 1,000 1,000 1,020 1,040 1,051 6301 Water 0 1,000 1,000 1,020 1,040 1,051 6307 Insurance 0 0 0 507 517 522 6407 Computer Costs 130 0 0 6408 Administration Recharge 8,000 4,000 4,000 4,040 4,080 4,203 6704 Event Costs 10,574 7,000 7,000 7,140 7,283 7,356 6720 Community Events 0 0 9,611 9,611 9,803 9,901 6799 Miscellaneous 2,973 0 0 200 204 206
Gross Expenditure 36,405 40,000 50,817 83,450 85,608 87,574
Income Rental (from Leases) 8,300 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,400 20,604 4200 Event rentals 37,925 51,000 43,000 51,000 52,020 52,540 Contribution to Salary 0 0 0 10,000 10,200 10,302
Gross Income 46,225 71,000 63,000 81,000 82,620 83,446
Net Expenditure -9,820 -31,000 -12,183 2,450 2,988 4,128
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Community Work
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Expenditure 5000 Salaries & Wages 36289 38789 38,789 39,488 40,673 41,893 6000 Training / Conferences 150 212 0 104 106 107 6001 Travelling 179 530 40 61 62 62
Supplies & Services 6304 Grant Advice -1,309 2,122 2,122 2,164 2,208 2,230 6305 Xmas Tree 1,300 890 390 408 416 420 6307 Insurance 0 0 0 651 664 671 6308 CCTV 24,125 36,327 36,327 35,054 35,755 36,112 6404 Telephones 0 424 0 8 9 9 6407 Computer Costs 289 212 330 334 341 344 6408 Administration Recharges 5,252 5,305 5,305 5,358 5,412 5,574 Culture Strategy 0 5,000 5,000 5,100 5,202 5,254 Moresk Day Centre 0 0 0 11,550 23,100 20,350
Grants And Donation 6712 Citizens Advice Bureau Donation 1,270 6,497 2,497 5,130 5,130 5,130 6713 Public Transport contn. 5,200 5,200 5,200 5,304 5,304 5,304 6714 Twinning Associations 232 879 1,100 897 915 924 6716 Street Pastors 5,000 5,306 5,000 5,106 5,208 5,260 6717 Music Festival 2,080 2,177 2,177 2,221 2,265 2,288 6719 Young People Cornwall 25,000 26,528 25,000 25,531 26,041 26,302 6720 Community Events 10,403 9,611 0 0 0 0 6721 Community Grants 8,530 8,701 8,701 8,875 8,875 8,875 Community Navigator Contn 5,000 10,000 10,000 5,000 0 0 6799 Miscellaneous 1,150 500 800 810 826 834 Gross Expenditure 130,140 165,210 148,778 159,153 168,511 167,943
Income Contribution from Fund 14,000 19,000 19,000 14,000 14,000 14,000 Rents from buildings 897 5,750 5,750 4,000 4,000 4,000
Gross Income 14,897 24,750 24,750 18,000 18,000 18,000
Net Expenditure 115,243 140,460 124,028 141,153 150,511 149,943
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
USE OF THE TOWN HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS SCHEDULE OF LETTING CHARGES 2020-21
COMMERCIAL CHARITIES LOCAL TRURO USERS AND NON HEALTH AND BRANCHES COMMERCIAL FITNESS OF CHARITIES USERS GROUPS AND NON- £ £ £ COMMERCIAL ORGANISATIO NS £ Morning 9.00 am – 1.00 pm 167.00 (162.00) 51.00 (49.00) 51.00 (49.00) 29.00 (28.00)
Afternoon 2.00 pm – 5.30 pm 167.00 (162.00) 51.00 (49.00) 51.00 (49.00) 29.00 (28.00)
Morning and Afternoon 9.00 am – 5.30 pm 231.00 (225.00) 85.00 (83.00) 85.00 (83.00) 45.00 (44.00)
Evenings 167.00 (162.00) 85.00 (83.00) 41.00 (40.00) 33.00 (32.00) Exceeding two hours up until 9.00 pm
Daytime Sessions between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm - 33.00 (32.00) 35.00 (34.00) 31.00 (30.00) not exceeding two hours or Early evening sessions between 5.00 pm and 8.00 pm not exceeding two hours
Extension of Caretakers hours Additional Additional Additional Additional after 9.00 pm and up to 10.30 pm 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 Monday - Thursday or after 6.00 per hour or part per hour or part per hour or part per hour or part pm on Fridays Saturday and Sundays by negotiation
Extension of Caretakers hours During weekends (excluding 30.00 per hour 30.00 per hour 30.00 per hour 30.00 per hour Bank Holidays) or part in or part in or part in or part in If there is a coffee morning in the addition to addition to addition to addition to building, the hourly rate will come hiring charge hiring charge hiring charge hiring charge into effect from 1.00 pm
Use of the Kitchen £11.00 (£11.00) per session plus VAT
Please note the above times should be adhered to and include setting up and vacating the room. Additional costs incurred, e.g. waste disposal, will be charged at cost.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
SCHEDULE OF LETTING CHARGES – 2020-21
MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS
With effect from 1 April 2020 (previous charges in brackets)
SINGLE SESSION
COMMERCIAL USERS NON COMMERCIAL CHARITIES £ USERS £ £
COMMITTEE ROOM £82.00 (80.00) 41.00 (40.00) 20.00 (20.00)
TOWN HALL See attached sheet See attached sheet See attached sheet
COUNCIL CHAMBER 130.00 (126.00) 65.00 (63.00) 23.00 (22.00)
USE OF KITCHEN 11.00 + VAT (£11.00) 11.00 + VAT (11.00) 11.00 + VAT (£11.00)
DOUBLE SESSION
COMMITTEE ROOM 124.00 (120.00) 62.00 (60.00) 27.00 (26.00)
TOWN HALL See attached sheet See attached sheet See attached sheet
COUNCIL CHAMBER 202.00 (196.00) 98.00 (95.00) 33.00 (32.00)
USE OF KITCHEN 11.00 (11.00) + VAT 11.00 (11.00) + VAT 11.00 (11.00) + VAT
Please note that the normal hiring sessions for the rooms are as follows:-
Morning 9.00 am to 1.00 pm Afternoon 2.00 pm to 5.30 pm Evening 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Lemon Quay Pricing 2020
Charity bookings - Charity Collection Only Rate: £0.00 (Free) - No set up – bucket collection only - Charity Rate: £36.00 +VAT collection (Administration fee only) - Small space booked by charity for promotion and collection - Charity Stall Rate: £45.00per day and £36.00+VAT per booking (Administration fee) - Small space booked by external company for promotion and collect on charity behalf - Charity Event Rate: £65.00per day and £36.00+VAT per booking (Administration Fee) - Medium to large space booked for Charity event *Charity Stall Rate and Charity Event Rate have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee per booking payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable. **Multiple dates booked at the same time will only be charged one administration fee.
Non-Commercial Bookings - Promotion Only Rate: £0.00 (Free) - No set up – Handing out flyers only - Stall Rate: £55.00per day and £36.00+VAT per booking (Administration fee) - Small space booked for promotion and or sales - Event Rate: £75.00per day and £36.00 +VAT per booking (Administration Fee) - Medium to large space booked for an event *Stall Rate and Event Rate have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee per booking payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable. **Multiple dates booked at the same time will only be charged one administration fee.
Commercial Bookings - Small Booking (1/4 of Quay / stall): £170.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £ 85.00 per day - Medium Booking (1/2 of Quay): £230.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £105.00 per day - Large Booking (whole Quay): £290.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £ 145.00 per day - Ticketed Events: As above and £1.00 per ticket - Based on event capacity not tickets sold *Set up and Pack down fees only charged if full day is required **All bookings have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee payable per booking at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Children’s Amusement Bookings - Half Quay: £70.00 per day and £36.00 +VAT administration fee - Electricity charged additionally + VAT (see Electricity section) - Full Quay: £100.00 per day and £36.00 +VAT administration fee - Electricity charged additionally +VAT (see Electricity section)
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
*All bookings have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee payable per booking at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable. **Multiple dates booked at the same time will only be charged one administration fee.
Electricity - Small Booking: £ 6.00 per day - Medium Booking: £ 12.00 per day - Large Booking: £18.00 per day *Any events requesting electricity will be charged the appropriate above fixed fee
Cancellation Fees and Charges - Charity Bookings - No charge for cancelling – any administration fees paid as deposits are non- transferable and non-refundable
- Non-Commercial Bookings - No charge for cancelling – any administration fees paid as deposits are non- transferable and non-refundable
- Commercial Bookings - Bookings cancelled prior to commencement date: - 6 months: 25% of total booking fee - 3 months: 50% of total booking fee - 1 month: 100% of total booking fee - All commercial bookings have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Children’s Amusement Bookings - £36.00 +VAT administration fee still payable for any cancelled dates within the booking, plus 25% of total daily rate for each cancelled day.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Truro Community Library Pricing 2020 - - Room Hire Charges
Large Room Medium Room Training Room + use of + use of + use of community community community kitchen kitchen kitchen Single Session £70 (£29) £60 (£29) £60 (£29) Saturday £60 Saturday £50 Saturday £50 (£29) (£29) (£29) 2 Consecutive Days Discount £50 (£29) Hourly Rate £15 Double Session £120 (£45) £90 (£45) £90 (£45) Saturday £105 Saturday £75 Saturday £75 (£45) (£45) (£45) 2 Consecutive Days Discount £80 (£45) Hourly Rate N/A N/A £15 (£12) *Only available on selected dates Registered charities and voluntary organisations receive a discount (Prices in Grey) Monday – Friday Morning Sessions - 9.00am - 1.00pm Afternoon Sessions - 1.00pm - 5.00pm All day Session - 9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturdays Morning session - 10.00am - 1.00pm Afternoon session - 1.00pm - 4.00pm All day Session - 10:00am - 4:00pm
Cancellation Fees and Charges - Commercial Bookings - Bookings cancelled prior to commencement date: - 1 month: No charge - 14 – 30 days: 25% of total booking fee - 4 – 14 days: 50% of total booking fee - less than 3 days: 100% of total booking fee
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Parks & Amenities Committee Estimates
1. The figures below represent the amounts required to maintain the current level of service provision.
2. The table at 5 below summarises the changes to the budget to provide both the revised estimate for the current year, and the estimates for next year. During 2019-20 we anticipate additional work being required, both in area maintained and breadth of work.
3 Staffing Structure
The chart below shows the current establishment for the committee.
Therefore, in summary the establishment of the department shows staff totalling 44 with a full time equivalent of 37.7. The headcount is higher in the Summer due to the temporary attendants and gardeners.
4. The government has announced that from 2010-21 there will be no business rate charge on public conveniences. This will save us just under £20k per annum. This has been removed from the estimates. However, there is a risk to achieving this as the legislation has been delayed and yet to be passed by parliament. 5. At the Parks & Amenities Committee on the 6th January there was no pricing estimate available for the Green Street public convenience refurbishment. There is a fund contribution of £10k within the budget, year on year. This money would current fund repayments on a £120k loan for fifteen years
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council using the Public Works Loans Board. The only restriction is that we are unable to borrow a sum of less than £80k. Therefore, if the costs of Lemon Street are less than this figure then we will need to specify costs for a second/third refurbishment prior to going forward.
6. Summary of Net Revenue spending
2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 Actual Approved Revised Estimates Estimates Estimates £ £ £ £ Allotments 10,324 7,725 7,813 8,247 Churchyards 16,660 15,877 17,373 17,163 Public Cemetery 41,862 36,305 45,954 48,861 Parks & Open Spaces 694,908 730,248 744,112 760,621 Public Conveniences 139,451 153,760 143,825 143,568 Café in the Park 25,043 -3,179 5,279 -832 928,248 940,736 964,356 977,627
Change from approved budget 23,620 36,891
7. The reasons for the changes in the above figures are described below:
Revised Estimate Estimate 2019-20 2020-21 £ £ Pay Awards & Living Wage Increase 0 24804 Inflation on Prices 0 7039 0 31842
Parks Departments Staff Costs 2000 17800 Training 4000 0 Allocation of Insurance costs 0 13465 Receipts of Interest re S106 3038 -12962 Sponsorship of Highway Areas 3140 -3000 Public Cemetery Fees 7000 5000 Income from Tennis 4888 0
Public Conveniences Staff Costs 0 9927 Business Rates -6382 -19627 Water charges -4000 -4000
Café Staff Costs -6000 -5762 Sales 15000 6000 Purchase of Sale Items 4000 2000
Misc -3064 -3792
Total 23620 36891
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
7. In addition to the above the Committee is asked to approve the following fund contributions: -
Parks Committee Capital Fund Page 14 line 15
Approved Revised Estimate 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 Capital Maintenance 54500 54500 55500 Play Equipment 19200 19200 19600 Vehicles & Plant 32000 32000 33000 Re-Surfacing 17800 17800 18100 Tennis Courts 9600 9600 9600 Public Convenience/Ten year Plan 10000 10000 10000
143,100 143,100 145,800
8 Additional Items
Prior to consideration of the estimates the committee will be considering the first public convenience redevelopment which may have implications for the above figures.
9 Recommendations of the Parks Committee
9.1 to approve the revised estimates for 2019-20 9.2 that the estimates for 2020-21 are approved 9.3 that the financial forecasts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 are agreed in principle. 9.4 that the contributions to the Committee Funds are approved. 9.5 that the Schedule of Fees and Charges for set out on pages 38 - 41 be approved, subject to the following amendment: Inclusion of “community groups” and an appropriate definition in the rates for charities set out on pages 40 – 41.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Allotments
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Employees 5000 Wages Costs 2,978 3080 3,168 3,446 3,500 3,654
Premises 6100 Repair & Maintenance 2,584 924 924 942 961 971 6109 Allotment development* 6,396 6524 6,524 6,654 6,788 6,855 6301 Water 1,438 349 349 356 363 371
Gross Expenditure 13,396 10877 10,965 11,399 11,613 11,851
Income 4201 Allotments 3,072 3152 3,152 3,152 3,215 3,247
Gross Income 3,072 3152 3,152 3,152 3,215 3,247
Net Expenditure 10,324 7725 7,813 8,247 8,397 8,604
* This money has been placed in the estimates to pay for the purchase of land and development to create additional allotments. If not used it is placed in a fund for future use.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Kenwyn Churchyard
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Employees 5000 Wages Costs 11,910 12,337 12,673 13,804 14,023 14,639
Premises 6100 Repair & Maintenance 2,200 2,541 2,541 2,591 2,643 2,670
Transport 6200 Fuel & Oil 1,250 1,291 1,291 1,317 1,343 1,357
Supplies & Services 6303 Equipment & Materials 1,400 1,418 1,418 1,446 1,475 1,490
Gross Expenditure 16,760 17,587 17,923 19,159 19,485 20,155
Income 4007 Contract Work 0 550 550 996 1,026 1,055 4104 Burial Fees 100 1,160 0 1,000 1,020 1,030
Gross Income 100 1,710 550 1,996 2,046 2,085
Net Expenditure 16,660 15,877 17,373 17,163 17,439 18,070
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Public Cemetery
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £
Employees 5000 Wages Costs 47,244 50,591 51,960 56,606 57,506 60,029
Premises 6100 Repair & Maintenance 2,595 1,848 1,848 1,885 1,922 1,942 6102 Rates 4,764 4,080 5,360 5,467 5,576 5,687
Transport 6200 Petrol & Oil 2,532 2,582 2,582 2,634 2,687 2,713 6201 Repair & Maintenance 1,600 1,635 1,635 1,668 1,701 1,718 6202 Hired Plant 400 410 410 410 410 410
Supplies & Services 6300 Gas & Electricity 80 80 80 80 80 80 6301 Water 0 200 200 200 200 200 6303 Equipment & Materials 1,700 1,666 1,666 1,700 1,734 1,751
Establishment Expenses 6404 Telephones 381 400 400 400 400 400
Gross Expenditure 61,296 63,492 66,142 71,049 72,215 74,930
Income 4104 Burial Fees & Charges 19,434 27,188 20,188 22,188 22,632 22,858 4200 Use of Chapel 0 0 0 0 0 0 4300 Interest 0 0 0 0 0 0
Gross Income 19,434 27,188 20,188 22,188 22,632 22,858
Net Expenditure 41,862 36,305 45,954 48,861 49,584 52,072
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Parks & Open Spaces Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate 5000 Wages Costs 543,301 567,652 565,858 635,135 645,231 673,546 6000 Training 10,475 7,177 11,177 7,321 7,467 7,542 6001 Travelling Expenses 2 2,071 2,071 1,572 1,604 1,620 6002 Protective Clothing 4,749 6,850 6,850 6,987 7,127 7,198 6007 Contract Work 4,046 0 Premises 6100 Repair & Maintenance 37,524 40,879 40,880 41,698 42,531 42,957 6101 Rent 1,252 2,226 2,226 2,271 2,316 2,339 6102 Rates 576 1,182 590 588 721 862 6105 Play Equipment Repairs 2,655 2,928 2,928 2,987 3,046 3,077 6106 Seats, Gates ,Fencing 1,723 2,108 2,108 2,150 2,193 2,215 6107 Gritting 0 2,067 1,000 1,041 1,062 1,073 6109 Nursery Development Costs* 16,073 16,394 16,394 16,394 16,394 16,394 Transport 6200 Petrol & Oil 7,353 10,473 10,473 10,682 10,896 11,005 6201 Repair & Maintenance 15,325 18,806 18,806 19,182 19,565 19,761 6202 Hired Plant & Equipment 1,891 2,587 2,587 2,647 2,708 2,739 6203 Licences 1,678 1,800 1,800 1,836 1,873 1,891 Supplies & Services 6300 Gas & Electricity 7,401 8,041 8,041 8,203 8,369 8,538 6301 Water 4,213 5,300 5,300 5,410 5,522 5,576 6302 Plants & Seeds 14,708 14,682 14,682 14,976 15,275 15,428 6303 Equipment & Materials 32,977 32,369 32,369 33,016 33,676 34,013 6306 Health & Safety 7,859 6,818 6,818 6,954 7,093 7,164 6404 Telephones 1,087 1,343 1,343 1,378 1,413 1,432 6407 Computer Costs 0 0 250 500 500 500 6408 Parks Ctte (Recharge) 38,495 38,880 40,880 2,778 2,778 2,778 Insurance 0 0 0 12,392 12,640 12,766 Miscellaneous Loan Repayments - Tennis 0 26,000 26,000 26,000 26,000 26,000 6705 Summer Activities 10,869 10,321 10,321 10,527 10,738 10,845 6706 Gardens Competition 921 1,236 1,236 1,261 1,286 1,299 6707 Britain in Bloom 8,187 5,499 5,499 5,609 5,721 5,778 6709 Advertising 4,283 4,078 4,078 4,160 4,243 4,285 6799 Other 138 98 98 100 102 103 Gross Expenditure 779,761 839,865 842,662 885,753 900,091 930,724 Income 4005 Floral Displays 23,986 26,649 26,649 26,649 27,182 27,454 4007 Contract Work 29,668 23,786 23,786 23,340 23,797 24,016 4209 Sponsorship 0 4,000 860 7,000 7,140 7,211 4101 Use of Pitches 5,423 5,275 5,275 5,275 5,381 5,434 4102 Tennis 2,783 20,549 15,661 20,549 20,960 21,170 4103 Trading Rights 9,062 12,860 12,860 12,860 13,117 13,248 4200 Site Rentals 5,886 3,596 3,596 3,596 3,668 3,705 4300 Investment Interest 0 5,038 2,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 4900 Miscellaneous 468 364 363 363 370 374 4008 County Council Agency 7,577 7,500 7,500 7,500 7,650 7,727 Gross Income 84,853 109,617 98,550 125,132 127,265 128,338 Net Expenditure 694,908 730,248 744,112 760,621 772,827 802,386 *Nursery development costs. This is a sum set aside for the development of a replacement nursery
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Public Conveniences
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £ Employees 5000 Salary Costs 68,047 69,719 69,719 81,870 84,326 86,855 6000 Training 0 224 224 228 233 235 6103 Clothing 185 530 530 541 551 557 Premises Costs 6100 Repair & Maintenance 9,330 7,806 7,806 7,962 8,121 8,203 6102 Rates 12,948 19,627 13,245 0 0 0 6103 Cleaning Materials 16,228 17,895 18,172 18,253 18,618 18,804 Transport 6200 Fuel 625 638 638 651 664 670 6201 Repair & Maintence 909 596 596 608 620 626 6203 Licences 253 296 296 302 308 311 Supplies & Services 6300 Gas & Electricity 1,655 2,446 2,446 2,495 2,545 2,596 6301 Water 17,563 22,192 18,192 18,636 19,009 19,199 6306 Health & Safety 1,480 1,511 1,511 1,541 1,572 1,588 6307 Insurance Premiums 551 562 562 573 585 591 Office Costs 6405 Telephone 165 224 224 228 233 235 6408 Administration (recharge) 5,252 5,305 5,305 5,358 5,412 5,574 Miscellaneous 6708 Loan Charges 6,060 6,060 6,060 6,060 6,060 6,060 6799 Miscellaneous 0 99 99 101 103 104
Gross Expenditure 141,251 155,731 145,625 145,407 148,959 152,208
Income 4007 Contract Work 1,800 1,969 1,800 1,839 1,876 1,895
Gross Income 1,800 1,969 1,800 1,839 1,876 1,895
Net Expenditure 139,451 153,760 143,825 143,568 147,083 150,313
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Café in the Park
Vote Description 2018-19 2019-20 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 No Actual Approved Revised Estimate Forecast Forecast Estimate Estimate
£ £ £ £ £ £ Expenditure 5000 Wages 68,430 68,401 62,401 64,568 66,505 68,501 6004 Purchase of Sale Items 32,995 26,232 30,232 28,757 29,619 30,508 6100 Repairs & Maintenance 1,054 2,592 2,000 2,644 2,697 2,724 6102 Local Authority Rates 2,496 2,200 2,550 2,594 2,672 2,752 6300 Electricity 606 1,100 800 1,122 1,122 1,122 6301 Water Charges 0 696 696 710 738 768 Admin. Recharge 5,000 5,000 1,000 1,100 1,151 1,304 6307 Insurance 0 0 0 1,073 1,094 1,105 Gross Expenditure 110,581 106,221 99,679 102,568 105,599 108,783
Income 4004 Sales 85,538 109,400 94,400 103,400 103,400 103,400
Gross Income 85,538 109,400 94,400 103,400 103,400 103,400
Net Expenditure 25,043 -3,179 5,279 -832 2,199 5,383
The café staff provide a management function for the tennis courts for which no income is credited to the café.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Schedule of Fees and Charges 2020/2021
Sports Facilities
Present Recommended 2019 from 1 April 2020 £ £
Tennis Courts (Including VAT)
Hire of Court for an hour 6.00 6.00
Floodlit Courts anytime including lights 8.00 per court 8.00 per court Annual Household Membership 35.00 36.00
Football Per match – up to age 16 16.50 16.50 Per match – age 16 and over 23.00 23.00
Mini Soccer Per match up to age 12 years 14.00 14.00 (Including use of the pavilion)
Use of Dressing Rooms/ Showers 13.50 13.50
Cricket Pitch (excluding VAT) (Including use of pavilion)
Per match – maximum 24 overs each side 30.00 30.00 Matches of 25 overs and above each side 40.00 40.00
(Concession of 25% to Truro Cricket Club)
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Schedule of Fees and Charges – 2020/2021 Present Recommended From Cemeteries & Churchyards 1 April 2020 £ £ Interment Child stillborn or aged up to and including 16 years No charge No charge
Person over 16 years 370 380 Cremated remains 107 110 Purchase of Burial Rights (Body or cremated remains) Child up to and including 16 years No charge No charge Person over 16 years 296 300 Rights for cremated remains (small plots) 117 120 Gravestone and Memorials Headstone up to 3’ 103 106 Wooden Cross up to 3’ 64 66 Desktop (for cremated remains plots only) 43 44 Other Charges Reinstatement of Grass surface on grave space 112 115 Surcharge for Bank Holiday, Weekend or Friday pm 257 265 (1 October – 31 March) Burial Search 25 25 Re-printing of Permit 48 48 Permit to remove headstone 80 80 Reservation Fees*
Grave Plot 200 200
Cremated Remains 89 89
* The Reservation Fees will be deducted from the fee payable at the time of Interment.
Allotment Rentals (from 1 April 2021) Plots to be charged £0.31p (2019 £0.30p) per square metre with effect from 1st April 2021. In accordance with legal requirements all allotment holders have to be given twelve months’ notice of a rent increase. City Boxes, Baskets and Tubs Scheme Hanging Baskets 20 20 Hayracks 29 29 Window Boxes 21 21 Tubs 25 35 Other items/areas By agreement By agreement Spring Bedding As above As above Watering items-Summer 20 20 Watering items- Winter 12 12
Provision of Floral Decorations 30 35 Hire of planted tubs – each Contract Work To be priced individually
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Events Parks Pricing 2020
Charity bookings/Community Groups - Charity Collection Only Rate: £0.00 (Free) - No set up – bucket collection only - Charity Rate: £36.00 +VAT collection (Administration fee only) - Small space booked by charity for an event, promotion or collection - Charity Event Rate: £55.00per day and £36.00+VAT per booking (Administration Fee) - Medium to large space booked for Charity event *Charity Event Rate has a £36.00 +VAT administration fee per booking payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable. **Multiple dates booked at the same time will only be charged one administration fee.
Non-Commercial Bookings - Promotion Only Rate: £0.00 (Free) - No set up – Handing out flyers only - Small Event Rate: £45.00per day and £36.00+VAT per booking (Administration fee) - Small space booked for an event, promotion or collection - Event Rate: £65.00per day and £36.00 +VAT per booking (Administration Fee) - Medium to large space booked for an event - Medium to large events with heavy machinery or the erection of a marquee will be charged a bond fee of between £2,500.00 - £5,000.00 *Stall Rate and Event Rate have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee per booking payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable. **Multiple dates booked at the same time will only be charged one administration fee.
Commercial Bookings - Small Event: £120.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £ 60.00 per day - Medium Event: £160.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £80.00 per day - Medium events with heavy machinery or the erection of a marquee will be charged a bond fee between £5,000.00 - Large Event: £200.00 per day - Set up and Pack down days: £ 100.00 per day - Large events with heavy machinery or the erection of a marquee will be charged a bond fee of between £2,500 - £5,000.00 - Ticketed Events: As above and £1.00 per ticket - Based on event capacity not tickets sold *Set up and Pack down fees only charged if full day is required **All bookings have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee payable per booking at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Electricity - Small Booking: £ 6.00 per day
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
- Medium Booking: £ 12.00 per day - Large Booking: £18.00 per day *Any events requesting electricity will be charged the appropriate above fixed fee
Cancellation Fees and Charges - Charity Bookings - No charge for cancelling – any administration fees paid as deposits are non- transferable and non-refundable
- Non-Commercial Bookings - No charge for cancelling – any administration fees paid as deposits are non- transferable and non-refundable
- Commercial Bookings - Bookings cancelled prior to commencement date: - 6 months: 25% of total booking fee - 3 months: 50% of total booking fee - 1 month: 100% of total booking fee - All commercial bookings have a £36.00 +VAT administration fee payable at time of booking as a deposit, administration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
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Truro City Estimates 2020-21 Draft for Council
Statement of Funds &
Reserve £ Revenue Reserve Parks Committee Fund Balance as at 1st April 2019 183,000 Balance as at 1st April 2019 302,673 add add Contribution 2019-20 0 Contribution 2019-20 143,100 Balance as at 31st March 2020 183,000 Income to 31st October 2019 1,069 add less Contribution 2020-21 0 Expenditure to 31st October 2019 146,289 Balance as at 31 March 2021 183,000 Balance 300,553 Finance Committee Revenue Fund add Balance as at 1st April 2019 107,641 Contribution 2020-21 145,800 Available Resource 31st March add 2021 446,353 Contribution 2019-20 33,400 Income to 31st October 2019 0 Hendra Development less Balance as at 1st April 2019 847 Expenditure to 31st October 2019 16,977 add Balance 124,064 Contribution 2019-20 0 add Income to 31st October 2019 2,100 Contribution 2020-21 29,700 less Available Resource 31st March 2021 153,764 Expenditure to 31st October 2019 2,520
Finance Committee Building Maintenance Fund Balance 427 Balance as at 1st April 2019 339,231 add add Contribution 2020-21 0 0 Available Resource 31st March Contribution 2019-20 41,400 2021 427 less Expenditure to 31st October 2019 64,000 Community Development Income to 31st October 2019 0 Balance as at 1st April 2019 33,627 Balance 316,631 add add Contribution 2019-20 -19,000 Contribution 2020-21 41,800 Income to 31st October 2019 0 Available Resource 31st March 2021 358,431 less Expenditure to 31st October 2019 0 Balance 14,627 add Contribution 2020-21 -14,000 Available Resource 31st March 2021 627
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Town Clerks Report Council 27th January 2020
Library
A reminder that tomorrow at 11.30a,m. we have a small event with Cornwall Council and the Trustees to celebrate the transfer to us of the building and the service. All Councillors are invited.
Hall for Cornwall/Municipal Offices
I am endeavouring to arrange a meeting with the Hall for Cornwall to discuss issues relating to the works and I hope that we will be in a position shortly to start the arrangements for our return to the building in the late Autumn.
I favour us carrying out some decorating works prior to ourselves (and the paintings) moving back in and therefore hope to have access for works earlier than the late Autumn.
Towns Fund
Cornwall Council is leading on this work in the four towns selected, Penzance, St. Ives, Camborne and Truro. The first piece of work is to select the membership of the Town Fund Board, that will make the decisions on the spending. There are three sections, public sector, private sector, and third sector/community. There is a restriction that the public sector cannot have a majority of votes. The City Council will have a vote and in due course will need to confirm who carries that vote at the Board meetings.
Cultural Compact
Cornwall Council have been awarded £20,000 of Arts Council investment to establish a Cultural Compact, which is named ‘Tyller a Nerth’ (the Cornish for place of energy). Cornwall Council has allocated match funding of £8,600 to the project. The Council is keen that the Tyller a Nerth reflects the three areas of focus set out in the Cornwall MOU for Culture: resilience, place, identity. The money has been allocated to Truro and a part time post for one year is being recruited by the Hall for Cornwall
The role is to support and develop the Cultural Partnership in Truro to work out how a place and its community can achieve strategic ambitions through local partnerships, collaboration and activity.
Roger Gazzard Town Clerk
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