(Public Pack)Agenda Document for Council, 31/03/2016 18:30

Public Document Pack

SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL South Lakeland House Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4UQ www.southlakeland.gov.uk

You are requested to attend a meeting of the Council on Thursday, 31 March 2016, at 6.30 p.m. in the District Council Chamber, South Lakeland House, Kendal Note – For those who wish to attend, Prayers will be said in the District Council Chamber at 6.20 p.m.

Membership

Councillors

Caroline Airey Shirley Evans Kevin Lancaster James Airey Clare Feeney-Johnson Mel Mackie Giles Archibald Alvin Finch Eric Morrell Ben Berry David Fletcher Bharath Rajan Roger Bingham Gill Gardner Annie Rawlinson Jonathan Brook Brenda Gray Vivienne Rees Andrew Butcher Anne Hall Amanda Rigg John Clough Heidi Halliday David Ryder Stephen Coleman Tom Harvey Sue Sanderson Stan Collins Chris Hogg Matt Severn Brian Cooper John Holmes Ian Stewart Nick Cotton Keith Hurst-Jones Peter Thornton Joss Curwen Helen Irving Graham Vincent Philip Dixon Janette Jenkinson Phil Walker Sheila Eccles Colin Jones David Williams Sylvia Emmott (Chairman) Dyan Jones Mark Wilson David Evans Pru Jupe (Vice-Chairman) Mary Wilson

Friday, 18 March 2016

Debbie Storr, Director of Policy and Resources (Monitoring Officer)

For all enquiries, please contact:- Committee Administrator: Chris Woods Telephone: 01539 793186 e-mail: [email protected] Roll Call : Apologies

AGENDA

Page Nos. PART I

1 MINUTES 5 - 30 To authorise the Chairman to sign, as a correct record, the minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 24 February 2016 (copy attached). 2 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Any member of the public who wishes to ask a question, make representations or present a deputation or petition at this meeting should apply to do so before the commencement of the meeting. Information on how to make the application can be obtained by viewing the Council’s Website www.southlakeland.gov.uk or by contacting the Democratic and Electoral Services Manager on 01539 793186.

(1) Questions and Representations

To receive any questions or representations which have been received from members of the public.

(2) Deputations and Petitions

To receive any deputations or petitions which have been received from members of the public. 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST To receive declarations by Members of interests in respect of items on this Agenda.

Members are reminded that, in accordance with the revised Code of Conduct, they are required to declare any disclosable pecuniary interests or other registrable interests which have not already been declared in the Council’s Register of Interests. (It is a criminal offence not to declare a disclosable pecuniary interest either in the Register or at the meeting.)

Members may, however, also decide, in the interests of clarity and transparency, to declare at this point in the meeting, any such disclosable pecuniary interests which they have already declared in the Register, as well as any other registrable or other interests.

If a Member requires advice on any item involving a possible declaration of interest which could affect his/her ability to speak and/or vote, he/she is advised to contact the Monitoring Officer at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting. 4 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972 - EXCLUDED ITEMS To consider whether the items, if any, in Part II of the Agenda should be considered in the presence of the press and public. 5 CHAIRMAN'S ANNOUNCEMENTS To receive announcements by the Chairman. 6 REVISED STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 31 - 94 To consider the adoption of the Revised Statement of Community Involvement as Council Policy. 7 SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT AND COMMISSIONING STRATEGY 95 - 120 2016-19 To consider the adoption of the Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-19. 8 PROCUREMENT SCHEDULE 121 - 128 To consider the approval of the Procurement Schedule. 9 ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE CALL-IN AND URGENCY PROVISIONS 129 - 132 To consider the 2015-16 annual review of the call-in and urgency procedures. 10 ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE CONSTITUTION 133 - 144 To consider suggested changes to the Constitution as part of the annual review process. 11 SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL EQUALITY SCHEME 145 - 164 2016-19 To consider the adoption of the South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19. 12 COMPOSITE REPORT OF THE CABINET To receive the Executive Reports from the Leader and Cabinet Members and to deal with any questions by Members to the appropriate Cabinet Members on the content of the reports. a Leader and Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio 165 - 168 Holder b Culture, Arts and Events Portfolio Holder 169 - 174 c Economic Growth, Town Centres and Small Businesses 175 - 182 Portfolio Holder d Environment and People Portfolio Holder 183 - 192 e Health and Wellbeing Portfolio Holder 193 - 200 f Housing and Strategic Development Portfolio Holder 201 - 208 g Innovation and Improvement Portfolio Holder 209 - 216 13 LEADER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CABINET QUESTION TIME (30 MINUTES) To receive announcements from the Leader and, in accordance with Paragraphs 10.2 and 10.3 of the Council’s Rules of Procedure, to deal with any questions to the Leader and/or Portfolio Holders on any topic which is within the jurisdiction or influence of the Council and is relevant to their Portfolio. Any Member who poses a question will be entitled to ask one supplementary question on the same topic.

Members are encouraged to give 24 hours’ written notice of questions to the Democratic and Electoral Services Manager. If no notice is received, then the Portfolio Holder can reserve the right to give a written answer. Where written notice of questions has been given, these will be taken first. Should a Member wish to ask more than one question, questions should be listed in order of priority. If more than one Member sends in a question, these will be taken in alphabetical order of Members’ names, alternated from meeting to meeting. Each question and each response is restricted to three minutes. 14 MINUTES OF MEETINGS To receive Chairmen’s comments (if any notified) in respect of the minutes of the Committee meetings held between 8 February and 18 March 2016. 15 QUESTIONS TO CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OR CHAIRMAN OF ANY COMMITTEE OR SUB-COMMITTEE To deal with any questions under Rule 10.6 of the Council’s Rules of Procedure, of which due notice has been given and/or the Chairman allows as a matter of urgent business and which are in relation to any matter over which the Council has powers or duties or which affect the area. PART II Private Section (exempt reasons under Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006, specified by way of paragraph number)

There are no items in this Part of the Agenda. Item No.1 48 24.02.2016 Council

SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL

Minutes of the proceedings at a meeting of the Council held in the District Council Chamber, South Lakeland House, Kendal, on Wednesday, 24 February 2016, at 6.30 p.m.

Present

Councillors

Sylvia Emmott (Chairman) Pru Jupe (Vice-Chairman)

Caroline Airey Shirley Evans Mel Mackie James Airey Clare Feeney-Johnson Eric Morrell Giles Archibald David Fletcher Bharath Rajan Ben Berry Gill Gardner Amanda Rigg Roger Bingham Brenda Gray David Ryder Jonathan Brook Heidi Halliday Sue Sanderson Andrew Butcher Tom Harvey Matt Severn Stan Collins John Holmes Ian Stewart Brian Cooper Keith Hurst-Jones Peter Thornton Nick Cotton Helen Irving Graham Vincent Joss Curwen Janette Jenkinson Phil Walker Philip Dixon Colin Jones Mark Wilson Sheila Eccles Dyan Jones Mary Wilson David Evans Kevin Lancaster

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors John Clough, Stephen Coleman, Alvin Finch, Anne Hall, Chris Hogg, Annie Rawlinson, Vivienne Rees and David Williams.

Officers

Lawrence Conway Chief Executive Michael Fisher Revenue and Benefits Manager Claire Gould Policy and Partnership Manager Ian Hassall Assistant Director Strategic Development Sandip Mahajan Democratic Services and Scrutiny Officer Shelagh McGregor Assistant Director Resources (Section 151 Officer) Simon McVey Assistant Director Policy and Performance Peter Notley Chief Accountant Simon Rowley Assistant Director Neighbourhood Services Helen Smith Financial Services Manager Debbie Storr Director of Policy and Resources (Monitoring Officer) David Sykes Director People and Places Karl Hansell Communications Officer

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C/72 MINUTES

In respect of Minute C/65, Councillor Andrew Butcher requested a response on the issue he had raised concerning the availability of sandbags during the December 2015 flooding. The Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Environment and People, Councillor Sue Sanderson, had checked the current position and consulted officers and other Members. There had been sufficient supply of sandbags across the District.

RESOLVED – That the Chairman be authorised to sign, as correct records, the minutes of the meetings of the Council held on 17 December 2015 and 6 January 2016.

C/73 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

RESOLVED – That it be noted that no questions, representations, deputations or petitions have been received from members of the public in respect of this meeting.

C/74 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

That it be noted that no declarations of interest were raised.

C/75 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972 - EXCLUDED ITEMS

RESOLVED – That it be noted that there are no excluded items on the Agenda.

C/76 CHAIRMAN'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

A list of engagements which the Chairman and Vice Chairman had attended since the last Council meeting had been circulated.

The Chairman stated that Mr H Lewis, who had been a former councillor, and from 1991-93 Chairman of the Council, had passed away. A minutes silence was held.

The Chairman reminded Members of the workshop being held on the draft Parks and Open Spaces Strategy 2016-21. She encouraged all Members to attend the Overview and Scrutiny workshop being held on Monday 29 February to better understand how to increase awareness of parks and open spaces and involve communities to increase usage.

On behalf of all Members, she passed on thanks and best wishes to Gill Rowell, Member Services Assistant, and Chris Woods, Democratic and Electoral Services Manager, who were both moving on after long service with the Council.

A pre-meeting briefing on the December 2015 flooding impact, response and ongoing work had been held. The Chairman highlighted that the Cumbria Community Foundation had secured significant donations (£6m) of which a

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sizable amount (£2m) had been allocated for South Lakeland. Much of this local funding was still available to affected residents and she encouraged this message to be widely circulated and for those residents to apply for support.

The Lakes Christian Centre were hosting a continuous Bible reading event between Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday (24-27 March 2016). This was promoting awareness of, and support for, people persecuted for their religious beliefs. Members were all invited and further information was available from Councillor Philip Dixon.

C/77 FLOODING IN SOUTH LAKELAND

The Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Environment and People, Councillor Sue Sanderson, presented a report on the December 2015 flooding impact, response and ongoing recovery work. A pre-meeting briefing had also been held and Members’ points made during the briefing along with the slides would be circulated to Members. .

The report summarised the Council’s role within a multi-agency response to the flood emergency (acute phase) and recovery work. Officers had delivered a range of work and worked closely with Cumbria County Council (CCC) as the lead local flood authority. Financial costs to the Council and impact on delivering the Council’s priorities and services were considered too.

CCC had set up the Strategic Flood Recovery Group along with the South Lakeland Community Flood Recovery Group which was chaired by Councillor Sanderson. The latter supported communities and businesses.

She highlighted three areas. People who had been affected who hadn’t registered their details needed to be encouraged to do so as their needs could be established and support targeted. Significant funds from the Cumbria Community Foundation were available locally to support affected residents upon application and take-up needed to be encouraged. Advising on and administering flood resilience grants of up to £5k (for residential and business properties) was a huge challenge for the Council. Again it was important to promote awareness of this property funding support.

The Leader, Councillor Peter Thornton, explained that it had been important to remove people’s flood contaminated waste items from their properties which had cost £400k. Government had provided assurance that it would help local authorities with funding their costs but this remained outstanding. He added that it was important to promote the message that South Lakeland was ‘open for business’. The Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Town Centres and Small Businesses, Councillor Giles Archibald, outlined the wide range of support offered to businesses.

A discussion ensued, which included comments about developing awareness of drainage and gullies and responsibilities for private gully clearance. The Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Graham Vincent, explained that drainage clearance in public streets had been good but issues

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did arise in areas such as car parks and gully incidents needed to be logged. The Director People and Places added that sources of flooding, including private gullies would need to be investigated. Flooding incidents were investigated by CCC and the Environment Agency (EA). Specific areas of Council expertise were made available to these partners.

Members re-iterated that the A590 had been affected during the flooding, cutting off the western part of the District from the M6. This particular example and impact of being cut off needed to be noted. It was also important to get infrastructure working quickly including small bridges which impacted upon residents and businesses.

Additional points made by Members recognised the need to promote community and business confidence but Government needed to be pressed for sufficient funding and all funding avenues pursued including the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership and European Union (various funding streams).

Councillor Sue Sanderson proposed that the report be noted and this was seconded by Councillor Keith Hurst-Jones with an addition put forward by Councillor Peter Thornton that was accepted that the effect of flooding on the A590 also be noted.

RESOLVED – That the contents of the report and the effect of recent flooding on the A590 road be noted.

C/78 CORPORATE FINANCIAL MONITORING, QUARTER 3, 2015/16

The Leader and Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio Holder presented the Quarter 3 report which set out the Council’s financial position at 31 December 2015. The Leader explained that the end year forecast had been for an underspend of around £0.5m (less than 1% of the £54m revenue budget) but revised to £0.1m to reflect the £400k revenue costs of the December 2015 flooding. In addition there were estimated to be carry-forwards of £0.7m.

Councillor David Evans referred to the £196k additional revenue funding for the Ferry Nab Capital Programme highlighting the need to maintain and develop assets. He requested details of budget costs and what had been delivered (returns on the investment). The Director People and Places undertook to provide a written response copied to all Members.

It was proposed by Councillor Peter Thornton, seconded by Councillor Ian Stewart and subsequently

RESOLVED – That the contents of the report be noted.

C/79 COUNCIL PLAN 2014-2019 (2016 UPDATE)

The Leader and Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio Holder presented the updated Council Plan 2014-19 which had been reviewed half-way

Page 8 52 24.02.2016 Council through the Plan’s five year cycle. This was the Council’s main strategic document which provided the basis for budget requirements.

The Plan outlined the Council’s vision and priorities and how they would be delivered. It summarised progress made in the last year plus key projects that would help achieve the Council’s four priorities. The ‘Measures of Success’ in the Plan were unchanged but with some additional targets. Progress would continue to be reported through quarterly performance monitoring reports.

The key targets remained 1000 new jobs and 1000 new affordable homes for rent, both by 2025. The Council had a key role in driving these through its policies and services, e.g. allocating employment and housing land. The enhanced target of 500 self-build homes would support the key housing target. Policies might need to be reviewed such as allowing more acceptable housing developments in open countryside. All parts of the District needed to be included to ensure targets were on track.

Influencing wider strategic networks (‘Northern Powerhouse’, Cumbria Devolution proposal) and working with partners was also just as important. The Council was generally raising its profile in promoting the area and influencing. He gave the examples of ensuring proper funding was secured from Government for flood recovery work alongside promoting the District’s efforts, seeking enhanced broadband, and proactively pursuing the case for investment in a northern development route to improve local transport links. The Leader highlighted that risks needed to be met too giving the example of any high- speed rail proposals by Government mustn’t negatively impact upon local services to London.

The Leader referred to other parts of the Plan.

Environmental focus included the expansion of kerbside recycling in Ulverston then across the District, support for more community micro-energy projects, improving air quality and various cycling projects including safe cycling for children. He referred to the value of the Culture, Arts and Events portfolio and the 2016 Tour of Britain cycling race.

Health and wellbeing was evolving so it was important to work in partnership with key bodies such as the Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group and North Country Leisure, the Council’s Leisure Services Partner who had made really good progress.

The Portfolio Holder for Innovation and Improvement made reference to the importance of the Customer Connect digital programme.

Members made a range of comments. There was general interest in areas such as having a northern development route, greater self-build and policies promoting accepting housing developments in open countryside. It was explained that northern development route discussions were emerging but were not currently included in the Local Plan. Some clarifications were also given on parts of the Council Plan.

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It was proposed by Councillor Peter Thornton, seconded by Councillor Shirley Evans and subsequently

RESOLVED – That the Council Plan 2014-19 (2016 Update) be adopted as part of the Council’s Policy Framework.

C/80 BUDGET 2016/17 TO 2019/20

The Leader and Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio Holder presented the draft budget proposals for 2016/17 - 2019/20. These set out a balanced revenue budget of £12.576m for 2016/17, projected the revenue budget for the remaining years and outlined the Capital Programme budget for the full period ((£8.388m for 2016/17).

There was a national context of funding changes and new requirements such as an apprenticeships levy. Locally the recent impact of the December 2015 flooding had resulted in a net cost of £1.4m to the Council. The gross revenue budget was £54m. The Leader referred to over £2m savings made without impacting upon services. The Customer Connect digital programme would also produce significant savings.

The Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) contained £0.5m uncommitted investment in revenue growth each year from 2017/18. Prior to that £0.5m was allocated of which £205k for Economic Development work was the largest proportion.

The Leader added that the New Homes Bonus funding from Government was being cut but this had been anticipated so had not been built into the base budget. However, the Council was part of the SPARSE network of councils which lobbied for better rural funding and had secured rural delivery grants amounting to nearly £0.5m for the next two years. There was also transitional funding from Government to offset reductions in revenue support grant.

Council Tax had not risen for the last five years but there would be a 2.85% increase this year (£5 for a Band D residence). Revenue flooding costs should be covered with the underspend this year resulting in a net balanced budget for 2016/17.

Councillor Peter Thornton proposed that the recommendations in the report were approved. This was seconded by Councillor Graham Vincent.

Following discussion and in accordance with the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014 and the Council’s Rules of Procedure, a recorded vote was taken on the recommendations as follows:–

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For Against Abstain Giles Archibald Caroline Airey Jonathan Brook James Airey Stan Collins Ben Berry Nick Cotton Roger Bingham Joss Curwen Brian Cooper Philip Dixon John Holmes Sheila Eccles Tom Harvey Sylvia Emmott Helen Irving David Evans Janette Jenkinson Shirley Evans Kevin Lancaster Clare Feeney-Johnson Mel Mackie David Fletcher Amanda Rigg Gill Gardiner Brenda Gray Heidi Halliday Keith Hurst-Jones Colin Jones Dyan Jones Pru Jupe Eric Morell Bharath Rajan David Ryder Sue Sanderson Matt Severn Ian Stewart Peter Thornton Graham Vincent Phil Walker Mark Wilson Mary Wilson

RESOLVED – That

(1) the report be noted;

(2) the Revenue Budget for 2016/17 of £12,576,000, as set out in Appendix 1 to the Report, be adopted;

(3) the £5 (2.85%) increase in the Council Tax for District Council Services for 2016/17 as part of a balanced revenue budget be approved;

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(4) £250,000 be earmarked within the General Reserve to meet any further costs of flooding, with delegation to the Assistant Director (Resources) to approve expenditure;

(5) the Fees and Charges Book for 2016/17, as set out in Appendix 5 to the Report, be approved;

(6) the latest Collection Fund Estimates, Parish Council precepts and Parish Council taxes for 2016/17, as set out in Appendix 8 to the Report, be noted.

(7) the Capital Programme, as set out in Appendix 9 to the Report, be approved;

(8) the Chief Finance Officer’s Statutory Report on setting the 2016/17 Budget, as set out in Appendix 12 to the Report, be noted;

(9) the Statutory Pay Policy Statement, as set out in Appendix 13 to the Report, be adopted and published; and

(10) it be noted that the proposals contained in this report have been incorporated into the Prudential Indicators and Treasury Management Framework which is a separate agenda item for this meeting.

C/81 CALCULATING AND SETTING THE 2016/17 COUNCIL TAX

Councillor Peter Thornton, Leader and Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio Holder, presented a revised report which had been circulated to Members to enable the Council to calculate and set the Council Tax for 2016/17. The precepts from the Parishes, Cumbria County Council and the Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner included in the calculations had been confirmed.

Once the Council Tax had been approved Council Tax bills would be issued to each household in South Lakeland during March 2016 in accordance with the amounts set subject to any reductions for discounts, exemptions or reliefs.

Councillor Ian Stewart requested that Council Tax precepts by precepting authorities were clearly disaggregated on Council Tax bills. It was explained that the Council Tax Bills had to comply with statutory formats and this information would be shown.

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For Against Abstain Giles Archibald Caroline Airey Jonathan Brook James Airey Stan Collins Ben Berry Nick Cotton Roger Bingham Joss Curwen Brian Cooper Philip Dixon John Holmes Sheila Eccles Tom Harvey Sylvia Emmott Helen Irving David Evans Janette Jenkinson Shirley Evans Kevin Lancaster Clare Feeney-Johnson Mel Mackie David Fletcher Amanda Rigg Gill Gardiner Brenda Gray Heidi Halliday Keith Hurst-Jones Colin Jones Dyan Jones Pru Jupe Eric Morell David Ryder Sue Sanderson Matt Severn Ian Stewart Peter Thornton Graham Vincent Phil Walker Mark Wilson Mary Wilson

RESOLVED – That the Council Tax Resolution as at Appendix A to the Report (and attached as Appendix 1 to these Minutes) be approved.

C/82 2016/17 TO 2018/19 TREASURY MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

Councillor Peter Thornton, Leader and Portfolio Holder for Promoting South Lakeland and Finance, presented a report which set out the Council’s proposed Treasury Management Framework for 2016/17 to 2018/19. The report’s figures had been updated following the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of 14 January 2016 to reflect the final draft budget proposals and the most recent economic context.

Councillor Peter Thornton proposed that the report’s recommendations be approved and this was seconded by Councillor Giles Archibald.

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Councillor Archibald, who supported the Leader for this area of work, felt that it was a very good Framework. It was proving effective against the impact of low interest rates on investments. The Framework also allowed good flexibility should rates rise and against other economic uncertainty, e.g. impact of the EU Referendum.

RESOLVED – That

(1) approval be given to the Report, including Appendices 1 to 4 containing the Prudential Indicators, Minimum Revenue Provision statement, Treasury Management Strategy and Treasury Management Policy; and

(2) officers be authorised to update the framework for any changes made by Council to the final budget proposals, if necessary.

C/83 LEADER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CABINET QUESTION TIME (30 MINUTES)

The Leader, Councillor Peter Thornton, had no announcements to make.

In accordance with paragraphs 10.2 and 10.3 of the Council’s Rules of Procedure, the following written questions had been submitted to the meeting:-

Councillor Matt Severn asked Councillor Giles Archibald, Portfolio Holder for the Economic Growth, Town Centres and Small Businesses – “Please will Cllr Archibald update us as to the present situation on the MintWorks and if he feels that it has been a success so far?”

Councillor Giles Archibald stated that the purchase of the MintWorks building, previously the old Connexions building, in Highgate, Kendal, had proved very successful. There were 29 occupants and the Council was getting a good financial return better than alternative investments and was nearly on budget. It was good for the local economy and a valuable enterprise hub for businesses. He requested that a response he had sent to the Shadow Cabinet was appended to the minutes of this meeting.

The following questions were then taken from the floor:-

Councillor Phil Walker asked Councillor Archibald what the Council was doing, following the December 2015 floods, to help support local people take part in community awards, e.g. ‘best large towns’ and ‘Kendal in Bloom’ which also provided economic benefits. Councillor Archibald explained that the Council had spent a lot of time restoring damaged parks following the flooding. Resources had been increased in the Community Services section including working closely with local communities. A draft Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, was being presented to a workshop on Monday 29 February for Members’ views, which would also support local communities.

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Councillor Mark Wilson asked Councillor Archibald about investment on free wifi in town centres and whether there were issues attaching relevant equipment to local buildings. He was concerned that Ulverston might not benefit. Councillor Archibald explained that a delegated executive decision had been made recently to support wider investment in free wi-fi in town centres including Ulverston and he did not think there were any such issues.

Councillor Shirley Evans asked Councillor Graham Vincent, Portfolio Holder and Health and Wellbeing, how the Council could encourage residents affected by flooding to seek funding from the Cumbria Community Foundation which had significant funding still available for South Lakeland residents. The Portfolio Holder explained that the Foundation had a streamlined approach to approving hardship applications. A small number of trustees met regularly to promptly process funding applications for under £2k, several members were required for applications up to £6k and then a full panel for anything over. Age UK were helping to encourage people and Members could do the same.

Councillor Dyan Jones asked Councillor Vincent about the implications of the Government’s decision to cut disability living allowance. Councillor Vincent explained that there were different allowances for the range of disabilities and carers’ allowances. He felt that any cut would have an impact and such health / social care issues were a real challenge.

Councillor Ben Berry asked Councillor Vincent what his views were on the health benefits of marijuana. Councillor Vincent replied that the joint South Lakeland and Barrow Community Safety Partnership had concerns about drugs including ‘legal highs’ so were against any promotion or use. Councillor Berry then asked Councillor Peter Thornton, the Leader, if he shared these views. The Leader replied that he did not want young people to be criminalised but drugs were dangerous so he didn’t support their use. However, an open approach was needed should future evidence present any alternative views.

Councillor Philip Dixon asked Councillor Peter Thornton, the Leader, if he could give assurance that the Electoral Services section would be able to manage the pending set of local elections and EU Referendum. The Leader gave an assurance to this effect.

Councillor Roger Bingham asked Councillor Peter Thornton, the Leader, if there were plans to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. The Chairman, with responsibility for civic events, replied that celebrations were being planned at Kendal Castle with the beacon to be lit.

Councillor Jeanette Jenkinson asked Councillor Sue Sanderson, Portfolio Holder for Environment and People, if people who had been flooded in the past, e.g. in Ulverston could be informed about insurance options. She referred to the Government’s new FloodRe package with the industry to offer affordable insurance to flooded households and asked if this could be emailed to Members. The Chairman suggested FloodRe details should also be placed on the Council’s website.

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C/84 MINUTES OF MEETINGS

RESOLVED – That it be noted that no comments or questions had been received in respect of the minutes of committee meetings held between 23 November 2015 and 5 February 2016.

C/85 QUESTIONS TO CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OR CHAIRMAN OF ANY COMMITTEE OR SUB-COMMITTEE

RESOLVED – That it be noted that no questions had been received.

C/86 URGENT DECISIONS

Details of an urgent Executive Decision (CEX/107 (2015/16)) which had been taken with regard to Flood Response Grants, were reported, in accordance with paragraph 17.3 of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedural Rules.

RESOLVED - That the urgent Executive Decision (CEX/107 (2015/16)) be noted.

The meeting ended at 9.35 p.m.

Page 16 MINUTES APPENDIX 1

Council 24 February 2016

RESOLVED – That the Council Tax Resolution as at Appendix A to the Report (and attached as Appendix 1 to these Minutes) be approved.

APPENDIX A (to the report)

Full Council is recommended to resolve as follows:

1. It be noted that on the 15th January 2016, under powers delegated under Paragraph 8.1 of Section 8 of Part 5 of the Council’s Constitution , the Assistant Director (Resources) and Section 151 Officer calculated the Council Tax Base for the financial year 2016/17 by means of an Administrative Decision:

(a) For the whole of the District as 44,510.88 (Item T in the formula in Section 31(B) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 (”the Act”), as amended); and (b) For dwellings in those parts of the District to which a Parish Precept relates as in the attached Appendix C.

2. The Council Tax requirement for the Council’s own purposes for the financial year 2016/17 (excluding parish precepts and special expenses) be calculated as £8,040,000 .

3. That the following amounts be calculated for the financial year 2016/17 in accordance with Sections 31 to 36 of the Act:

(a) £67,114,328.80 being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(2) of the Act taking into account all precepts issued to it by Parish Councils; (b) £57,594,954.00 being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(3) of the Act; (c) £9,519,374.80 being the amount by which the aggregate at 3(a) above exceeds the aggregate at 3(b) above, calculated in accordance with section 31(A)(4) of the Act as its Council Tax requirement for the year (Item R in the formula in Section 31B of the Act); (d) £213.87 being the amount at 3(c) above (Item R) all divided by Item T(1(a) above) calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 31B of the Act, as the basic amount of its Council Tax for the year (including parish precepts and special expenses);

Page 17 (e) £1,479,374.80 being the aggregate of all special items (parish precepts and special expenses) referred to in Section 34(1) of the Act (as per the attached Appendix C). (f) £180.63 being the amount at 3(d) above less the result given by dividing the amount at 3(e) above by item T (1(a) above), calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 34(2) of the Act, as the basic amount of its Council Tax for the year for dwellings in those parts of its District to which no parish precept relates.

4. To note that the County Council and the Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner have provisionally issued precepts to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Act for each category of dwellings in the Council’s district as indicated in the table below.

5. That the Council, in accordance with Sections 30 and 36 of the Act, hereby sets the aggregate amounts shown in the tables below as the amounts of Council Tax for 2016/17 for each part of its District and for each of the categories of dwellings.

SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL

Valuation Bands

BAND A BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G BAND H

£120.42 £140.49 £160.56 £180.63 £ 220.77 £260.91 £301.05 £361.26

CUMBRIA COUNTY COUNCIL

Valuation Bands

BAND A BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G BAND H

£821.25 £ 958.12 £1095.00 £1231.87 £1505.62 £1779.37 £2053.12 £2463.74

POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER

Valuation Bands

BAND A BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G BAND H £144.42 £168.49 £192.56 £216.63 £264.77 £312.91 £361.05 £433.26

Page 18

6. To determine that the Council’s basic amount of Council Tax for 2016/17 is not excessive in accordance with principles approved under Section 52ZB of the Act.

COUNCIL TAX FOR EACH PART OF THE DISTRICT

Valuation Bands

PARISH BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND A B C D E F G H £ £ £ £ £ £ £ £ 1,100.19 1,283.56 1,466.92 1,650.29 2,017.02 2,383.75 2,750.48 3,300.58 ALDINGHAM ALLITHWAITE 1,111.67 1,296.95 1,482.23 1,667.51 2,038.07 2,408.63 2,779.18 3,335.02 UPPER

ARNSIDE 1,109.23 1,294.11 1,478.98 1,663.85 2,033.59 2,403.34 2,773.08 3,327.70

BARBON 1,106.65 1,291.09 1,475.53 1,659.97 2,028.85 2,397.73 2,766.62 3,319.94

BEETHAM 1,101.58 1,285.18 1,468.77 1,652.37 2,019.56 2,386.76 2,753.95 3,304.74

BLAWITH & 1,100.23 1,283.61 1,466.98 1,650.35 2,017.09 2,383.84 2,750.58 3,300.70 SUBBERTHWAITE

BROUGHTON EAST 1,094.82 1,277.29 1,459.76 1,642.23 2,007.17 2,372.11 2,737.05 3,284.46

BURNESIDE (1) 1,108.77 1,293.56 1,478.36 1,663.15 2,032.74 2,402.33 2,771.92 3,326.30

BURTON IN 1,102.15 1,285.85 1,469.54 1,653.23 2,020.61 2,388.00 2,755.38 3,306.46 KENDAL

CARTMEL FELL 1,102.25 1,285.95 1,469.66 1,653.37 2,020.79 2,388.20 2,755.62 3,306.74

CASTERTON 1,124.48 1,311.89 1,499.31 1,686.72 2,061.55 2,436.37 2,811.20 3,373.44

CLAIFE 1,102.94 1,286.76 1,470.59 1,654.41 2,022.06 2,389.70 2,757.35 3,308.82

COLTON 1,102.55 1,286.30 1,470.06 1,653.82 2,021.34 2,388.85 2,756.37 3,307.64

CONISTON 1,113.31 1,298.86 1,484.41 1,669.96 2,041.06 2,412.16 2,783.27 3,339.92

CROOK 1,105.90 1,290.22 1,474.53 1,658.85 2,027.48 2,396.12 2,764.75 3,317.70

CROSTHWAITE & 1,094.33 1,276.71 1,459.10 1,641.49 2,006.27 2,371.04 2,735.82 3,282.98 LYTH

Page 19 PARISH BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND A B C D E F G H £ £ £ £ £ £ £ £ DENT 1,114.40 1,300.13 1,485.87 1,671.60 2,043.07 2,414.53 2,786.00 3,343.20

DOCKER 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

DUDDON (2) 1,106.52 1,290.94 1,475.36 1,659.78 2,028.62 2,397.46 2,766.30 3,319.56

EGTON WITH NEWLAND, 1,095.20 1,277.73 1,460.27 1,642.80 2,007.87 2,372.93 2,738.00 3,285.60 MANSRIGGS & OSMOTHERLEY (3)

FAWCETT FOREST 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

FIRBANK 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

GARSDALE 1,096.57 1,279.33 1,462.09 1,644.85 2,010.37 2,375.89 2,741.42 3,289.70

GRANGE-OVER- 1,135.62 1,324.89 1,514.16 1,703.43 2,081.97 2,460.51 2,839.05 3,406.86 SANDS

GRAYRIGG 1,090.40 1,272.13 1,453.87 1,635.60 1,999.07 2,362.53 2,726.00 3,271.20

HAVERTHWAITE 1,106.70 1,291.15 1,475.60 1,660.05 2,028.95 2,397.85 2,766.75 3,320.10

HAWKSHEAD 1,107.41 1,291.97 1,476.54 1,661.11 2,030.25 2,399.38 2,768.52 3,322.22

HELSINGTON 1,113.35 1,298.91 1,484.47 1,670.03 2,041.15 2,412.27 2,783.38 3,340.06

HEVERSHAM 1,104.53 1,288.61 1,472.70 1,656.79 2,024.97 2,393.14 2,761.32 3,313.58

HINCASTER 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

HOLME 1,110.09 1,295.11 1,480.12 1,665.14 2,035.17 2,405.20 2,775.23 3,330.28

HUTTON ROOF 1,092.36 1,274.42 1,456.48 1,638.54 2,002.66 2,366.78 2,730.90 3,277.08

KENDAL 1,108.91 1,293.73 1,478.55 1,663.37 2,033.01 2,402.65 2,772.28 3,326.74

KENTMERE 1,105.37 1,289.59 1,473.82 1,658.05 2,026.51 2,394.96 2,763.42 3,316.10

KILLINGTON 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

KIRKBY IRELETH 1,094.11 1,276.46 1,458.81 1,641.16 2,005.86 2,370.56 2,735.27 3,282.32

KIRKBY LONSDALE 1,117.85 1,304.15 1,490.46 1,676.77 2,049.39 2,422.00 2,794.62 3,353.54

LAKES 1,113.57 1,299.16 1,484.76 1,670.35 2,041.54 2,412.73 2,783.92 3,340.70

LAMBRIGG 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

Page 20 PARISH BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND A B C D E F G H £ £ £ £ £ £ £ £ LEVENS 1,103.15 1,287.00 1,470.86 1,654.72 2,022.44 2,390.15 2,757.87 3,309.44

LONGSLEDDALE 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

LOWER 1,107.95 1,292.61 1,477.27 1,661.93 2,031.25 2,400.57 2,769.88 3,323.86 ALLITHWAITE

LOWER HOLKER 1,100.62 1,284.06 1,467.49 1,650.93 2,017.80 2,384.68 2,751.55 3,301.86

LOWICK 1,099.03 1,282.21 1,465.38 1,648.55 2,014.89 2,381.24 2,747.58 3,297.10

LUPTON 1,108.65 1,293.42 1,478.20 1,662.97 2,032.52 2,402.07 2,771.62 3,325.94

MANSERGH 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

MIDDLETON 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26

MILNTHORPE 1,106.23 1,290.61 1,474.98 1,659.35 2,028.09 2,396.84 2,765.58 3,318.70

NATLAND 1,099.03 1,282.21 1,465.38 1,648.55 2,014.89 2,381.24 2,747.58 3,297.10

NEW HUTTON 1,091.01 1,272.84 1,454.68 1,636.51 2,000.18 2,363.85 2,727.52 3,273.02

OLD HUTTON & 1,090.29 1,272.00 1,453.72 1,635.43 1,998.86 2,362.29 2,725.72 3,270.86 HOLMESCALES

PENNINGTON 1,090.27 1,271.98 1,453.69 1,635.40 1,998.82 2,362.24 2,725.67 3,270.80

PRESTON PATRICK 1,099.84 1,283.15 1,466.45 1,649.76 2,016.37 2,382.99 2,749.60 3,299.52

PRESTON RICHARD 1,117.31 1,303.52 1,489.74 1,675.96 2,048.40 2,420.83 2,793.27 3,351.92

SATTERTHWAITE 1,111.15 1,296.34 1,481.53 1,666.72 2,037.10 2,407.48 2,777.87 3,333.44

SEDBERGH 1,107.92 1,292.57 1,477.23 1,661.88 2,031.19 2,400.49 2,769.80 3,323.76

SEDGWICK 1,119.61 1,306.21 1,492.81 1,679.41 2,052.61 2,425.81 2,799.02 3,358.82

SKELSMERGH AND 1,100.02 1,283.36 1,466.69 1,650.03 2,016.70 2,383.38 2,750.05 3,300.06 SCALTHWAITERIGG

SKELWITH 1,107.97 1,292.63 1,477.29 1,661.95 2,031.27 2,400.59 2,769.92 3,323.90

STAINTON 1,101.28 1,284.83 1,468.37 1,651.92 2,019.01 2,386.11 2,753.20 3,303.84

STAVELEY IN 1,098.53 1,281.61 1,464.70 1,647.79 2,013.97 2,380.14 2,746.32 3,295.58 CARTMEL

STAVELEY WITH 1,099.69 1,282.97 1,466.25 1,649.53 2,016.09 2,382.65 2,749.22 3,299.06 INGS (4)

Page 21 PARISH BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND A B C D E F G H £ £ £ £ £ £ £ £ TORVER 1,108.91 1,293.72 1,478.54 1,663.36 2,033.00 2,402.63 2,772.27 3,326.72

ULVERSTON 1,115.45 1,301.36 1,487.27 1,673.18 2,045.00 2,416.82 2,788.63 3,346.36

UNDERBARROW AND 1,110.42 1,295.49 1,480.56 1,665.63 2,035.77 2,405.91 2,776.05 3,331.26 BRADLEYFIELD

URSWICK BARDSEA AND 1,096.28 1,278.99 1,461.71 1,644.42 2,009.85 2,375.27 2,740.70 3,288.84 STAINTON

1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26 WHINFELL WHITWELL & 1,086.09 1,267.10 1,448.12 1,629.13 1,991.16 2,353.19 2,715.22 3,258.26 SELSIDE

WINDERMERE 1,105.86 1,290.17 1,474.48 1,658.79 2,027.41 2,396.03 2,764.65 3,317.58

WITHERSLACK MEATHOP AND 1,100.36 1,283.75 1,467.15 1,650.54 2,017.33 2,384.11 2,750.90 3,301.08 ULPHA

Note (1) - The Parish of Burneside, comprises Strickland Ketel and Strickland Roger Note (2) - The Parish of Duddon, comprises Angerton, Broughton West and Dunnerdale Note (3) – The Parish of Egton-with-Newland Mansriggs & Osmotherley comprises Egton with Newland, Mansriggs and Osmotherley Note (4) – The Parish of Staveley with Ings comprises, Hugill, Nether Staveley and Over Staveley

Page 22 APPENDIX B (to the report)

COUNCIL TAX SCHEDULE FOR EACH PARISH IN THE DISTRICT AND THE COUNCIL TAX FOR SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL

Valuation Bands BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND PARISH A B C D E F G H

BAND BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G BAND H PARISH A

ALDINGHAM 134.53 156.95 179.37 201.79 246.63 291.47 336.32 403.58

ALLITHWAITE UPPER 146.01 170.34 194.68 219.01 267.68 316.35 365.02 438.02

ARNSIDE 143.57 167.49 191.42 215.35 263.21 311.06 358.92 430.70

BARBON 140.98 164.48 187.97 211.47 258.46 305.46 352.45 422.94

BEETHAM 135.91 158.57 181.22 203.87 249.17 294.48 339.78 407.74

BLAWITH & SUBBERTHWAITE 134.57 156.99 179.42 201.85 246.71 291.56 336.42 403.70

BROUGHTON EAST 129.15 150.68 172.20 193.73 236.78 279.83 322.88 387.46

BURNESIDE (1) 143.10 166.95 190.80 214.65 262.35 310.05 357.75 429.30

BURTON IN KENDAL 136.49 159.23 181.98 204.73 250.23 295.72 341.22 409.46

CARTMEL FELL 136.58 159.34 182.11 204.87 250.40 295.92 341.45 409.74

CASTERTON 158.81 185.28 211.75 238.22 291.16 344.10 397.03 476.44

CLAIFE 137.27 160.15 183.03 205.91 251.67 297.43 343.18 411.82

COLTON 136.88 159.69 182.51 205.32 250.95 296.57 342.20 410.64

CONISTON 147.64 172.25 196.85 221.46 270.67 319.89 369.10 442.92

CROOK 140.23 163.61 186.98 210.35 257.09 303.84 350.58 420.70

CROSTHWAITE & LYTH 128.66 150.10 171.55 192.99 235.88 278.76 321.65 385.98

DENT 148.73 173.52 198.31 223.10 272.68 322.26 371.83 446.20

DOCKER 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

DUDDON (2) 140.85 164.33 187.80 211.28 258.23 305.18 352.13 422.56

Page 23 BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND PARISH A B C D E F G H

EGTON WITH NEWLAND, MANSRIGGS & OSMOTHERLEY (3) 129.53 151.12 172.71 194.30 237.48 280.66 323.83 388.60

FAWCETT FOREST 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

FIRBANK 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

GARSDALE 130.90 152.72 174.53 196.35 239.98 283.62 327.25 392.70

GRANGE-OVER- SANDS 169.95 198.28 226.60 254.93 311.58 368.23 424.88 509.86

GRAYRIGG 124.73 145.52 166.31 187.10 228.68 270.26 311.83 374.20

HAVERTHWAITE 141.03 164.54 188.04 211.55 258.56 305.57 352.58 423.10

HAWKSHEAD 141.74 165.36 188.99 212.61 259.86 307.10 354.35 425.22

HELSINGTON 147.69 172.30 196.92 221.53 270.76 319.99 369.22 443.06

HEVERSHAM 138.86 162.00 185.15 208.29 254.58 300.86 347.15 416.58

HINCASTER 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

HOLME 144.43 168.50 192.57 216.64 264.78 312.92 361.07 433.28

HUTTON ROOF 126.69 147.81 168.92 190.04 232.27 274.50 316.73 380.08

KENDAL 143.25 167.12 191.00 214.87 262.62 310.37 358.12 429.74

KENTMERE 139.70 162.98 186.27 209.55 256.12 302.68 349.25 419.10

KILLINGTON 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

KIRKBY IRELETH 128.44 149.85 171.25 192.66 235.47 278.29 321.10 385.32

KIRKBY LONSDALE 152.18 177.54 202.91 228.27 279.00 329.72 380.45 456.54

LAKES 147.90 172.55 197.20 221.85 271.15 320.45 369.75 443.70

LAMBRIGG 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

LEVENS 137.48 160.39 183.31 206.22 252.05 297.87 343.70 412.44

LONGSLEDDALE 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

LOWER ALLITHWAITE 142.29 166.00 189.72 213.43 260.86 308.29 355.72 426.86

Page 24 BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND PARISH A B C D E F G H

LOWER HOLKER 134.95 157.45 179.94 202.43 247.41 292.40 337.38 404.86

LOWICK 133.37 155.59 177.82 200.05 244.51 288.96 333.42 400.10

LUPTON 142.98 166.81 190.64 214.47 262.13 309.79 357.45 428.94

MANSERGH 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

MIDDLETON 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

MILNTHORPE 140.57 163.99 187.42 210.85 257.71 304.56 351.42 421.70

NATLAND 133.37 155.59 177.82 200.05 244.51 288.96 333.42 400.10

NEW HUTTON 125.34 146.23 167.12 188.01 229.79 271.57 313.35 376.02

OLD HUTTON & HOLMESCALES 124.62 145.39 166.16 186.93 228.47 270.01 311.55 373.86

PENNINGTON 124.60 145.37 166.13 186.90 228.43 269.97 311.50 373.80

PRESTON PATRICK 134.17 156.54 178.90 201.26 245.98 290.71 335.43 402.52

PRESTON RICHARD 151.64 176.91 202.19 227.46 278.01 328.55 379.10 454.92

SATTERTHWAITE 145.48 169.73 193.97 218.22 266.71 315.21 363.70 436.44

SEDBERGH 142.25 165.96 189.67 213.38 260.80 308.22 355.63 426.76

SEDGWICK 153.94 179.60 205.25 230.91 282.22 333.54 384.85 461.82

SKELSMERGH AND SCALTHWAITERIGG 134.35 156.75 179.14 201.53 246.31 291.10 335.88 403.06

SKELWITH 142.30 166.02 189.73 213.45 260.88 308.32 355.75 426.90

STAINTON 135.61 158.22 180.82 203.42 248.62 293.83 339.03 406.84

STAVELEY IN CARTMEL 132.86 155.00 177.15 199.29 243.58 287.86 332.15 398.58

STAVELEY WITH INGS (4) 134.02 156.36 178.69 201.03 245.70 290.38 335.05 402.06

TORVER 143.24 167.11 190.99 214.86 262.61 310.35 358.10 429.72

ULVERSTON 149.79 174.75 199.72 224.68 274.61 324.54 374.47 449.36

UNDERBARROW AND 144.75 168.88 193.00 217.13 265.38 313.63 361.88 434.26 BRADLEYFIELD

Page 25 BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND BAND PARISH A B C D E F G H

URSWICK BARDSEA AND STAINTON 130.61 152.38 174.15 195.92 239.46 283.00 326.53 391.84

WHINFELL 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

WHITWELL & SELSIDE 120.42 140.49 160.56 180.63 220.77 260.91 301.05 361.26

WINDERMERE 140.19 163.56 186.92 210.29 257.02 303.75 350.48 420.58

WITHERSLACK MEATHOP AND 134.69 157.14 179.59 202.04 246.94 291.84 336.73 404.08 ULPHA

Page 26 APPENDIX C (to the report)

TOWN & PARISH COUNCIL PRECEPTS

2015/16 2016/17 Parish /Town Tax Precepts Council Tax Tax Precepts Council Tax C Tax Council Base £ Band D (£) Base £ Band D (£) Increase (%) ALDINGHAM 529.55 8678.17 16.39 528.81 11187.34 21.16 29.1 ALLITHWAITE UPPER 424.17 16617.24 39.18 430.84 16536.44 38.38 -2.0 ARNSIDE 1159.53 40417.17 34.86 1171.15 40666.66 34.72 -0.4 BARBON 134.94 4322.95 32.04 139.59 4304.94 30.84 -3.7 BEETHAM 857.78 19703.70 22.97 858.48 19951.30 23.24 1.2 BLAWITH & SUBBERTHWAITE 126.72 2472.30 19.51 127.88 2714.17 21.22 8.8 BROUGHTON EAST 148.85 2958.57 19.88 148.76 1948.85 13.10 -34.1 BURNESIDE (1) 654.60 22168.60 33.87 653.31 22227.03 34.02 0.4 BURTON IN KENDAL 591.50 14145.76 23.92 595.77 14356.24 24.10 0.8 CARTMEL FELL 253.30 6168.59 24.35 255.30 6189.13 24.24 -0.5 CASTERTON 157.66 9015.80 57.19 163.76 9430.79 57.59 0.1 CLAIFE 237.11 3928.77 16.57 234.14 5919.95 25.28 52.6 COLTON 498.41 12079.54 24.24 504.36 12453.81 24.69 1.9 CONISTON 454.94 16835.76 37.01 467.28 19080.91 40.83 10.3 CROOK 222.26 6599.07 29.69 220.81 6562.45 29.72 0.1 CROSTHWAITE & LYTH 364.15 4486.02 12.32 370.20 4576.73 12.36 0.3 DENT 345.18 14476.80 41.94 343.57 14590.42 42.47 1.3 DOCKER 27.79 0 0 27.29 0 0 0 DUDDON (2) 544.04 13559.47 24.94 528.16 16189.24 30.65 22.9 EGTON WITH NEWLAND, MANSRIGGS & OSMOTHERLEY (3) 525.75 7069.57 13.45 526.88 7302.26 13.67 1.6 FAWCETT FOREST 12.74 0 0 11.30 0 0 0 FIRBANK 61.14 0 0 57.31 0 0 0 GARSDALE 123.23 2002.51 16.25 124.42 1956.37 15.72 -3.26 GRANGE-OVER-SANDS 2017.42 149894.24 74.30 2026.42 150561.52 74.30 0 GRAYRIGG 99.69 670.42 6.73 98.07 634.65 6.47 -3.9 HAVERTHWAITE 359.20 11225.60 31.25 364.99 11285.80 30.92 -1.1 HAWKSHEAD 335.82 10536.29 31.37 330.63 10573.93 31.98 1.9 HELSINGTON 169.31 6300.00 37.21 168.27 6882.44 40.90 9.9 HEVERSHAM 350.34 9975.66 28.47 352.91 9762.42 27.66 -2.8 HINCASTER 89.85 0 0 90.02 0 0 0 HOLME 569.87 20204.88 35.46 566.31 20391.79 36.01 1.6 HUTTON ROOF 111.24 732.61 6.59 111.68 1050.86 9.41 42.8 KENDAL 10029.47 313319.22 31.24 10161.94 347943.25 34.24 9.6 KENTMERE 66.87 1900.00 28.41 65.70 1900.00 28.92 1.8 KILLINGTON 76.95 0 0 73.01 0 0 0 KIRKBY IRELETH 489.40 5835.23 11.92 493.35 5933.70 12.03 0.9 KIRKBY LONSDALE 879.14 42477.11 48.32 896.22 42694.95 47.64 -1.4 LAKES 2490.11 101772.34 40.87 2462.14 101480.13 41.22 0.9 LAMBRIGG 45.15 0 0 45.61 0 0 0 LEVENS 517.58 13347.63 25.79 520.26 13314.45 25.59 -0.8 LONGSLEDDALE 42.54 0 0 43.50 0 0 0 LOWER ALLITHWAITE 857.70 27934.50 32.57 858.98 28176.51 32.80 0.7 LOWER HOLKER 678.83 14478.26 21.33 687.12 14976.05 21.80 2.2 LOWICK 128.83 2415.59 18.75 128.75 2500.00 19.42 3.6 LUPTON 80.28 2212.10 27.55 85.51 2893.55 33.84 22.8 MANSEGH 74.94 0 0 74.89 0 0 0 MIDDLETON 53.36 0 0 51.39 0 0 0 MILNTHORPE 701.01 21071.15 30.06 707.48 21376.55 30.22 0.5 NATLAND 429.12 7677.26 17.89 432.94 8409.16 19.42 8.6 NEW HUTTON 172.57 1303.62 7.55 175.36 1294.80 7.38 -2.3 OLD HUTTON & HOLMESCALES 177.99 3128.91 17.58 180.22 1136.02 6.30 -64.2 PENNINGTON 743.20 4487.54 6.04 741.73 4651.79 6.27 3.8 PRESTON PATRICK 169.08 3384.59 20.02 172.68 3562.10 20.63 3.0 PRESTON RICHARD 498.78 22131.77 44.37 495.80 23219.05 46.83 5.5 SATTERTHWAITE 136.43 5000.00 36.65 133.01 5000.00 37.59 2.6 SEDBERGH 1039.68 33698.10 32.41 1054.55 34540.45 32.75 1.0 SEDGWICK 186.34 9500.00 50.98 188.93 9500.00 50.28 -1.4

Page 27 2015/16 2016/17 Parish /Town Tax Precepts Council Tax Tax Precepts Council Tax C Tax Council Base £ Band D (£) Base £ Band D (£) Increase (%) SKELSMERGH AND SCALTHWAITERIGG 199.13 3741.92 18.79 196.19 4100.09 20.90 11.2 SKELWITH 123.27 3108.54 25.22 121.87 4000.23 32.82 30.1 STAINTON 154.83 2837.63 18.33 149.14 3398.64 22.79 24.3 STAVELEY IN CARTMEL 280.87 4657.25 16.58 282.51 5272.86 18.66 12.5 STAVELEY WITH INGS (4) 748.55 15347.18 20.50 762.38 15554.10 20.40 -0.5 TORVER 72.12 2550.00 35.36 73.04 2550.00 34.23 -3.2 ULVERSTON 3920.28 159588.52 40.71 3985.26 175548.34 44.05 8.2 UNDERBARROW AND BRADLEYFIELD 204.92 5866.95 28.63 209.38 7641.54 36.50 27.5 URSWICK BARDSEA AND STAINTON 605.16 8615.45 14.24 614.14 9390.26 15.29 7.4 WHINFELL 78.61 0 0 79.82 0 0 0 WHITWELL & SELSIDE 92.14 0 0 93.50 0 0 0 WINDERMERE 4093.32 121049.35 29.57 4099.45 121601.29 29.66 0.3 WITHERSLACK MEATHOP AND ULPHA 306.31 4500.00 14.69 307.15 6576.48 21.41 46.1 44202.64 1406183.77 31.81 44510.88 1479374.80 33.24 4.5

For clarity Purposes the Parishes shown in the table above mirror those shown on the Council Tax bills received by residents. The figures in brackets are the Tax Base figure for the individual element to make the total for each parish.

Note (1) - The Parish of Burneside, comprises Strickland Ketel (500.58) and Strickland Roger (152.73)

Note (2) - The Parish of Duddon, comprises Angerton (5.60)/Broughton West (438.66)/Dunnerdale (83.90)

Note (3) – The Parish of Egton-with-Newland Mansriggs & Osmotherley, comprises Egton with Newland (391.43)/Mansriggs (13.45)/Osmotherley (122.00)

Note (4) – The Parish of Staveley with Ings comprises, Hugill (242.14)/Nether Staveley (313.16)/Over Staveley (207.08)

In these cases the precept is divided by the combined Tax Bases to give the same Band D Council Tax for each parish.

Page 28

MINUTES APPENDIX 2

Council 24 February 2016

The MintWorks, 124 Highgate – Council question

Kendal Enterprise Centre (The MintWorks) is part of the DEFRA funded Rural Growth Network. The centre addresses the issue of the inadequate supply of small business units in Kendal town centre in relation to the revealed demand exposed by research on the requirements of micro and new start businesses to enter the next phase of growth.

The project demonstrates to residents, businesses and other agencies the Council’s commitment to creating jobs and economic growth.

Costings

In June 2015 the budget request for acquisition and refurbishment of 124 Highgate was £582,015 including RGN grant contribution of £105,000.

Final invoicing is yet to take place, following the retention period and negotiation on the final sums due to higher than anticipated utilities connections costs and, during construction, necessary corrections to the designer’s specification.

Current recorded expenditure is £581,405.

It is expected that the scheme costs to the Council will be finalised at approximately £584,000 (plus VAT), comprising:

- Acquisition of 124 Highgate: £315,800+VAT - Works and fees: £268,200 +VAT

Occupancy rates

The MintWorks is fully let and is now home to 11 businesses and the total number of jobs currently on site is 29. Letting fees are very competitive compared to similar office units in Kendal with units starting from £14 per square foot.

Tenancy agreements for The MintWorks are easy-in/easy-out contracts that provide small businesses with flexible office space helping to stimulate new business growth and expansion in the Kendal area.

Current tenants

Reception –Sandra Frazer PA Services operates a virtual PA and business administration service, whilst also running The MintWorks reception and managing bookings and enquiries for the building.

Suite 1 – PS Business Matters, offering freelance project management, independent business consultancy and marketing expertise.

Page 29 Suite 2 – People Junction, a HR consultancy and training firm. The proprietor also co-organises the Kendal Festival of Food.

Suite 3 – Mint Tech, an IT business offering computer and software solutions, repairs, maintenance and upgrades.

Suite 4 – Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Cumbria Business Growth Hub

Suite 5 – SCK Webworks, a 12-person strong digital web agency offering professional website development and design as well as mobile app development and optimisation.

Suite 6 – Celia Jackson, a sole-trader relocating to Kendal from London, is a business and market research consultant.

Suite 7 – SHC Lanaway, an electrical contractor and smart home installation specialist.

Suite 8 – FMC Technologies (Netherlands) are a global leader for the energy industry providing subsea service equipment, Kendal will be their office in England.

Suite 9 – Pixel Pudu is a digital studio offering website design and development.

Suite 10 – Explainer HQ is an animation firm working with companies to simplify business concepts through animation.

Conference facilities

The conference room and two smaller meeting rooms are available for external business event bookings and are already proving a popular choice since they opened in January for training events, seminars and meetings across the South Lakeland business community.

Examples include bookings from The Brewery Arts Centre for adult education courses, Cumbria Growth Hub events, monthly seminars for the LAWSA Society, Wired Cumbria digital and creative networking social, various training events and SLDC flood response drop in sessions for businesses and residents.

END

Page 30 Item No.6

Part I report South Lakeland District Council Full Council 31st March 2016 REVISED STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

PORTFOLIO: Councillor Heidi Halliday – Strategic Growth Portfolio Holder

REPORT FROM: David Sykes – Director of People and Places

REPORT AUTHOR: Elizabeth Scott-Clarke – Development Plans Officer

WARDS: All – except those wards within the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks.

KEY DECISION: Forward Plan - 1st February 2016 to 30th April 2016 – Non- Key budget and Policy Framework Decision.

1.0 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 The expected outcome is that communities and stakeholders are able to understand, engage and influence the Council’s work as a local planning authority. The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval to adopt a revised Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) as Council policy. The updated document sets how the Council intends to consult with communities and stakeholders on statutory planning documents, planning guidance and planning applications. The revised document takes account of changes to planning legislation and regulation since the South Lakeland District Council’s (“the Council’s”) adoption of the current SCI in 2006 (and amended 2008). The revised SCI has been subject to a six week period of public consultation.

2.0 RECOMMENDATION 2.1 It is recommended that Council approves the adoption of the Revised Statement of Community Involvement (Appendix 2 to this report), as Council policy.

3.0 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS What is the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)?

Page 31 3.1 The revised SCI at Appendix 1 sets out how and when the Council will engage with the community and other key stakeholders when it prepares and revises Local Plan documents. It also explains how the community will be consulted on planning applications. The revised SCI is intended to update and supersede the existing SCI (adopted in 2006 and amended in 2008) to reflect a changed local and national planning context, including the introduction of neighbourhood planning and the duty to cooperate. Looking ahead, the Council will continue to review and update the SCI to reflect future changes. The consultation activities set out in the SCI comprise minimum requirements. 3.2 The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authorities, as separate Local Planning Authorities, have their own SCIs to inform their consultation on plan preparation and planning applications in their areas. The National Park boundary changes will come into force on 1st August, 2016. From that date, this revised SCI will only apply to South Lakeland’s planning authority area. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park authorities adopted SCI’s will apply to those parts of South Lakeland that have become parts of the National Parks’ local planning authority areas. 3.3 Although there is no longer a legal requirement to consult on the SCI before it is reported to Council to consider for adoption, on this occasion, public consultation was undertaken, as the changes are quite significant. The Council’s approach to community engagement: 3.4 Since the current SCI was adopted in 2006, there have been significant changes in the way that communities and the Council interact. The Council now has a corporate Communications Strategy (May 2013), which sets out how the Council will communicate with local community partners, members and employees. It has also started a major innovation project, ‘Customer Connect’, to transform the way the Council works with and serves customers. 3.5 Since 2006 access to the internet has increased and there has been a shift towards on-line services and correspondence by email and social media. Despite these changes, there are still a significant number of people that are unable to access electronic forms of information and communication. The revised SCI proposes that the Council continues to ensure that consultation materials and means of taking part are available in a variety of formats to encourage widest possible accessibility. This includes paper, electronic means and also large print and other formats on request. Section four of the revised SCI sets out the Council’s approach to community engagement in the Local Plan process, while section five sets out the proposed approach to consulting on planning applications. 3.6 The Council will review and update the SCI as necessary to reflect any future changes in legislative requirements, best practice guidance, or where appropriate, applying learning from consultation experience(s). Key changes to the revised SCI - (from the 2006 SCI and 2008 Addendum): 3.7 A changed national and local planning context: The Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 set out updated basic requirements as to how councils should consult communities and stakeholders in preparing Local Plan and Supplementary Planning documents. The regulations continue to require councils also to consult with

Page 32 listed ‘specific consultation bodies’ and other interest groups which cover the whole range of voluntary, community , special interest, amenity and the ‘general consultation bodies’. These bodies are listed in Appendix 1 of the revised SCI. 3.8 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in 2012: The NPPF reaffirmed the role of and importance of a plan led system and re-iterated the need for early and meaningful engagement with local people, organisations and businesses in preparing a Local Plan so that it reflects their aspirations and needs. The NPPF also emphasises the potential for early engagement and pre-application discussions to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning application system. 3.9 The introduction of Neighbourhood Planning under the Localism Act 2011: The revised SCI sets out briefly the procedures for preparing and consulting on Neighbourhood Plans and Neighbourhood Development Orders. As part of the process, parish/town councils are required to undertake public consultation themselves. Appendix 2 of the revised SCI sets out what communities can expect from the Council, in terms of supporting the neighbourhood planning process, in a ‘Neighbourhood Planning Protocol’. 3.10 Localism Act 2011 – Duty to Cooperate: The revised SCI (paras. 3.5 and 3.6) sets out the Council’s approach to the new ‘duty to cooperate’ in plan making with neighbouring planning authorities and other public bodies. Councils are required to actively engage and, where possible, to work jointly on strategic cross boundary issues, such as housing, employment, infrastructure and flood risk. 3.11 Community Involvement in planning applications: Section 5 and Appendix 3 of the revised SCI, sets out how the Council will invite comments on planning applications and how people can find out the outcomes of decision. The revised approach, as required by the Localism Act (2011) and set out in the NPPF, includes encouraging pre- application discussions with planning officers and encouraging developers to consult neighbours and/or local amenity bodies before submitting a planning application. 3.12 Consulting on planning applications: Section five of the revised SCI, refers to pre-planning application advice and consultation. An Overview & Scrutiny Committee Task and Finish Group examined Public Participation in Planning and concentrated on the pre-application stage of the process, following officer advice that they considered that the public could exert most influence at this stage. The conclusions of that group have been incorporated into the pre- application advice service document. A separate report regarding this project has been presented to Cabinet previously. 3.13 The Council’s Development Management Service is in the process of finalising detailed guidance concerning ’pre-planning application advice’. This additional guidance concerning the Council’s pre- planning application advice service is separate and additional to the guidance in this revised SCI. The Council’s forthcoming pre – planning application guidance is expected to be finalised in spring 2016. The revised SCI refers to this forthcoming separate and more detailed pre-application guidance.

Page 33 4.0 CONSULTATION ON THE DRAFT SCI 4.1 Whilst there is no regulatory requirement to consult on the draft SCI and some authorities merely adopt them, it was considered that the document will have greater credibility if consulted upon. This is particularly important with the growing importance of the localism agenda and timely with the forthcoming consultation on the next phase of Local Plan work. Cabinet approved public consultation on the draft SCI at its meeting on 28th October, 2015. The six week public consultation commenced on Friday 6th November and ended on Friday 18th December, 2015. Overview and Scrutiny Committee were also consulted.

4.2 Public Consultation feedback: A summary of the ten public consultation responses received and the Council’s response is given in the Consultation Statement in Appendix 2, Table 2, to this report. Most of the responses received relate to consultation on planning applications and pre-application discussions. Fewer responses relate to consultation on Development Plans.

4.3 Overview and Scrutiny Committee feedback: The revised SCI (consultation draft) was considered at Overview & Scrutiny Committee on 24th November, 2015. Members resolved that the draft SCI be noted and that their comments be considered as consultation feedback. (see the background documents - O & S SCI minute and the attached revised SCI Consultation Statement – Appendix 2 of this report).Table 1 of Appendix 2, sets out the consultation responses received from Members of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee as part of the formal six week public consultation and the associated officer response. 4.4 Key points from Overview and Scrutiny Committee’s feedback were:  each relevant section should list the range of bodies that needed to be consulted;  strengthen the wording concerning Section 5 of the revised SCI – (planning application consultations/pre-planning applications);  section 5 revised SCI – major applications for the standard pre- application advice option should be redefined to include the proportionate impact on an area or village;  the weekly planning application lists are too complex; and,  SCI Appendix 1 - the general consultation bodies table - present on one page for clarity, so that it reads downwards and not across.

4.5 What are the main changes made to the revised SCI - (since the Nov. 2015 consultation draft)? Table 1 Section in revised Main changes SCI

Section 1 Cross reference to the detailed pre-application advice to be set out in a separate Council document (expected to be approved

Page 34 spring 2016). Text added to the table setting out local plan consultation Section 4 methods and actions. (Text concerning e-mails). Pre – application discussions and consultation: Cross reference to detailed pre-application advice in a separate Council document (expected to be approved spring 2016). Stronger wording – ‘we would expect developers…’ Publicising planning applications: Cross refer to Appendix 3 of the revised SCI and additional text added. Section 5 How to comment: text added - refers to what planning application comments must include and what matters should not be included. Taking views into account: Some text deleted and a web link added to the Council’s current guidance on public participation at Planning Committee. SCI Table amended and footnote added re. definition of ‘major’ Appendix development. 3  See also, the ‘response column’ in Tables 1 and 2 of the Consultation Statement (Appendix 2 to this report).

5.0 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 Do not adopt the revised SCI as Council policy. 5.2 This would mean that the current out of date SCI would remain as Council policy and the Council could not meet the timetable for revising the SCI in accordance with the recently approved Local Development Scheme. 5.3 Delay adopting the revised SCI as Council policy. 5.4 This would mean that the current out of date SCI would remain as Council policy and the Council could not meet the timetable for revising the SCI in accordance with the recently approved Local Development Scheme.

6.0 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 The production/adoption of the revised SCI will assist in the delivery of the Council’s priority for long term ambitions for delivering housing and economic development through improved community and stakeholder engagement. It is therefore significant for the delivery of the 2014 – 2019 Council Plan. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 This report’s recommendation to adopt the revised SCI can be met within existing Council budget.

Page 35 7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 It is considered that adoption of the revised SCI can be met within existing staff resources. 7.3 Legal 7.3.1 The recommendations are in conformity with the requirements of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 and the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012. 7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 Not applicable to the revised SCI. The social, economic and environmental impacts of planning policy documents will be addressed in the sustainability appraisal of these documents and planning applications. 7.5 Equality and Diversity 7.5.1 An Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) has been undertaken and is attached to this report as Appendix 3. 7.5.2 Expected outcomes of the EIA - The revised SCI sets out when and how the Council will engage with the community and other key stakeholders when preparing and revising local plan documents and consulting on planning applications. The consultation processes and the methods proposed seek to ensure that consultations are inclusive in terms of engaging communities, including equality groups. 7.5.3 The main stakeholders in the revised SCI include South Lakeland residents, the wider public and communities, equalities organisations and other stakeholders such as statutory consultees, duty to cooperate bodies and infrastructure providers. Organisations that represent ‘harder to reach’ groups (such as the aged, the disabled, religious and ethnic interests, the young - schools and colleges etc.) are also referred to in the revised SCI – see Appendix 1. These groups were consulted on the consultation draft of the revised SCI, thus giving them a say on how they will be consulted on Local Plan documents and planning applications. The revised SCI will allow communities and stakeholders to understand, engage and influence the Council’s work as a local planning authority. 7.5.4 In terms of consulting on Local Plan documents, to reduce the potential risk that some consultees / organisations may have out of date contacts and to ensure that any new contacts/organisations are included, the Local Plan consultation database is regularly reviewed. This includes, for example, - contacts / organisations that represent the aged, disabled, the young and rural communities.

7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required Not adopting the revised The Council cannot Adopt the revised SCI. SCI. continue with revising the Council’s SCI (by adopting the updated

Page 36 Risk Consequence Controls required SCI). This would mean that the current out of date SCI would remain as Council policy. The LDS timetable for the revised SCI is not met. Delay adopting the This would mean that Adopt the revised SCI. revised SCI. the current out of date SCI would remain as Council policy and the Council could not meet the timetable for revising the SCI in accordance with the recently approved Local Development Scheme.

CONTACT OFFICERS Report Author - Elizabeth Scott - Clarke, Development Plans Officer 01539 793384 [email protected]

APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT Appendix No. 1 Revised Statement of Community Involvement, (Part I). 2 Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, (Part I). 3 Equality Impact Assessment, (Part I).

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background Where it is available document Council (Cabinet), Minute Minute CEX/79: CEX/79 (2014/2015). http://tinyurl.com/jn8h5yc Report to Cabinet – Meeting Item 15 - Report - Draft Revised Statement of 28th October, 2015. Item 15. Community Involvement, 28th October 2015. http://tinyurl.com/z2qehog Item 15 – Appendix 1 – Consultation Draft Revised Statement of Community Involvement, 28th October 2015. http://tinyurl.com/hq2qqg4

Page 37 Name of Background Where it is available document Item 15 – Appendix 2 – Equality Impact Assessment (Consultation Draft SCI – October 2015) http://tinyurl.com/j7w9pvq Council (Overview and Minute O&S/30 Scrutiny), Minute O&S/30 http://tinyurl.com/jr7ztsl (2014/2015). Report to Overview and Item 10 - Report - Draft Revised Statement of Scrutiny – Meeting 24th Community Involvement – November, 2015. Item 10. http://tinyurl.com/jamjpqs Item 10 – Appendix 1 – Consultation Draft Revised Statement of Community Involvement, 28th October 2015. http://tinyurl.com/z3ektp8 Item 10 – Appendix 2 – Equality Impact Assessment (Consultation Draft SCI – October 2015) http://tinyurl.com/gwcqg4b South Lakeland Local http://tinyurl.com/of9wzjl Development Scheme 2015 – 21, (LDS), approved 28 07 15. Adopted Statement of http://tinyurl.com/mdk8tff Community Involvement 2006. Statement of Community http://tinyurl.com/mdk8tff Involvement Addendum 2008. TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee 19 02 16 19 02 16 19 02 16 03 03 16 (date 24 11 15 of meeting). Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer 28 10 15 (date N/A 31 03 16 (date N/A 19 02 16 of meeting) of meeting) Human Leader Ward Resource Councillor(s) Services Manager N/A N/A N/A

Page 38 Appendix 1 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

Page 39 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

Page 40 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

Contents

1. What is a Statement of Community Involvement?...... 2 2. The Council’s approach to Community Engagement ...... 3 3. Community Engagement and Planning ...... 3 4. Community Engagement in the Local Plan process ...... 4 5. Community Engagement in the Development Management Process (Planning Applications) ...... 9 6. Resources, Monitoring and Review ...... 12 Appendix 1: Specific and General Consultation Bodies ...... 14 Appendix 2: Neighbourhood Planning Protocol ...... 16 Appendix 3 - Community Involvement in Planning Applications ...... 22 Appendix 4: Duty to Cooperate Meeting Template (example) ...... 23

Page 41 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

1. What is a Statement of Community Involvement?

1.1 South Lakeland District Council (‘the Council/District Council’) is the local planning authority for those parts of South Lakeland outside the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park. This area includes Kendal, Ulverston, Grange-over-Sands, Milnthorpe, Kirkby Lonsdale and surrounding rural areas. Within this area, South Lakeland District Council is responsible for preparing plans to guide new development and deciding whether or not to approve planning applications.

1.2 This Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) sets out how and when we will engage with the community and other key stakeholders when we prepare and revise Local Plan documents. It also explains how the community will be consulted on planning applications. This SCI provides a summary of how the Council will provide pre-planning application advice. Detailed pre-application advice, in terms of the principles, process, service and the cost, will be given in a forthcoming separate Council document. The Council’s pre-application advice is subject to its own approval process. Keeping detailed pre-application advice separate from this SCI, allows the advice to be more readily updated.

1.3 This SCI updates and supersedes the existing SCI which was adopted in 2006 and amended in 2008, reflecting a changed local and national planning context, including the introduction of neighbourhood planning and the duty to cooperate. We will review and update the SCI as necessary to reflect any future changes. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks Authorities’ have their own SCIs that they use when they determine planning applications and prepare plans in the areas for which they have responsibility.

1. 4 This Statement of Community Involvement is divided into six sections:

 part 1 is this introduction;  part 2 sets out the Council’s overall approach to community engagement;  part 3 sets out the national context and external influences on community engagement;  part 4 sets out how the Council will engage communities in the local plan process;  part 5 sets out the consultation processes associated with planning applications and development management. Detailed pre – application advice is given in a separate Council advice document, which is referred to; and,  part 6 deals with the resources required to deliver the consultation methods proposed and how we will monitor and review our consultation approaches.

1. 5 The consultation activities set out in this SCI are a minimum requirement. This document, gives an assurance to communities and other key stakeholders about what they can expect from us in terms of consultation and involvement. We may however, undertake additional consultation activities; if it is considered to be

Page 42 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

necessary depending on the scale and impact of a particular project, proposal or, document.

Consultation on the SCI

1.6 The Council publicly consulted on its draft SCI for a 6 week period between 6th November and 18th December, 2015. The received feedback/responses were taken into consideration and, where appropriate are reflected in this document.

1.7 A summary of these representations and the Council’s response can be found in the relevant consultation statement, which is available to view at [link to be added once available on our website].

1.8 This latest SCI was (add to say ‘adopted’ here) by the Council on (to add ‘adoption date’ here).

2. The Council’s approach to Community Engagement

2.1 Since the first SCI was adopted there have been significant changes in the way communities and the Council interact. Access to the internet has increased and there has been a shift towards online services and correspondence by email and social media. Through South Lakeland’s Customer Connect Programme, the Council’s single view of the customer will put them at the very heart of everything it does and enable them to have better access to services at times and channels that are more convenient to them. This statement embraces the principles of Customer Connect and ensures that community engagement on planning applications and local and neighbourhood planning reflects those principles.

2.2 Despite these changes, there are still a significant number of people that are unable to use electronic forms of communication and access to information, or prefer not to do so. As such, we will continue to ensure that consultation materials are available in a variety of formats and that there are varied ways of taking part in consultations to encourage the widest possible accessibility. This includes paper, electronic and large print and other formats on request.

3. Community Engagement and Planning

3.1 Community engagement in relation to planning is guided by national regulations and legislation including the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012, which include basic requirements about who councils should consult and how and when in the planning process they should do it.

3.2 The Government requires us to consult “specific consultation bodies” and other interest groups which cover the whole range of voluntary, community, special interest, amenity and business interests, referred to as “general consultation bodies”. Lists of both these groups as they apply to South Lakeland can be found at Appendix

Page 43 Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

3.3 We seek to provide everyone who wishes to be involved in planning decisions and the development of their community with the opportunity to do so. This SCI sets out the ways in which we will do this.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)

3.4 The Government’s planning policies are set out in a document called the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which was published in March 2012. The NPPF stresses the importance of a plan-led system and re-iterates the role of early and meaningful engagement and collaboration with local people, organisations and businesses to produce a Local Plan that reflects the vision and aspirations, and best meets the needs of local communities.

Localism and the Duty to Co-operate

3.5 It is important that the Local Plan is produced taking into account all the relevant strategies and plans that affect the District including those prepared by neighbouring councils. The Localism Act 2011 has introduced a new duty to cooperate that requires planning authorities and other public bodies to actively engage with one another and work jointly on strategic matters. There are a number of issues such as transport, employment and flood risk that have impacts that cross district boundaries. We will explore appropriate approaches to such issues with neighbouring authorities and other relevant organisations to ensure that strategic priorities and shared issues are reflected and addressed in the Local Plan.

3.6 In engaging with other duty to cooperate bodies, our approach will be:

 to have a process of on-going, constructive and active engagement on the preparation of local plans and other activities relating to sustainable development and the use of land, in particular cross-boundary and strategic matters;  where appropriate, to explore opportunities for joint working (specifically in the production of evidence base documents);  to maintain evidence of our engagement with other duty to co-operate bodies;  to use a standard template to document meetings (see example at Appendix 4); and,  to set out in the Council’s Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) how we have taken forward the duty, on an ongoing basis.

4. Community Engagement in the Local Plan process

4.1 The Local Plan is made up of Development Plan Documents (DPDs), such as the Core Strategy and the Land Allocations document, and Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs), such as Development Briefs.

4.2 There are also other documents that support the delivery of the Local Plan, such as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP).

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4.3 Our Local Development Scheme (LDS) (which can be viewed on our website at http://tinyurl.com/of9wzjl) sets out details of all the Local Plan documents (including supporting documents) that we are or will be progressing. The preparation of each of these documents will provide important opportunities for communities to get involved in shaping the places in which they live.

4.4 The process of producing each DPD and SPD involves several stages; including two key opportunities for community involvement:

 Determining the scope of the document and assembly of evidence base;  Informal consultation with stakeholders on the key content and issues (this is no longer a formal requirement but is considered to be good practice);  Consideration of consultation responses and drawing up of draft document;  Publication of document for formal public participation;  Consideration of consultation responses and drawing up of final Document;  Submission of document to the Secretary of State (if the document is a DPD);  Independent Examination in Public (if the document is a DPD);  Receipt of Inspector’s report (if the document is a DPD);  Consideration of Inspector’s recommendations (if the document is a DPD);  Adoption by the Council; and,  Ongoing monitoring and review.

4.5 For documents we produce that are not DPDs or SPDs, there are different requirements for consultation. The CIL is subject to its own regulations (The Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010, as amended), which include requirements for two stages of public and stakeholder consultation. The IDP is consulted on alongside the CIL.

4.6 A Sustainability Appraisal Report must accompany each of the DPDs and these will be consulted upon at the same time as the main DPD consultations.

4.7 More information about the Local Plan documents, supporting documents and what stage the Council is at in producing them, can be found on the Council’s website or at our offices. For information about consultation and neighbourhood planning, please see paragraph 4.14.

Methods of community involvement

4.8 Based on our existing experience and practice, analysis of the South Lakeland community and the response to earlier consultations on Local Plan documents, there are a range of methods and approaches that we will use to facilitate community engagement in the Local Plan process.

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4.9 A database containing contact details of the groups and organisations identified in Appendix 1 and individuals/members of the public who expressed a wish to be included was created in 2004. It has since been continually updated as consultations have taken place. There are currently over 7000 people and organisations on our database (Jan. 2016). This includes organisations that represent groups such as; the aged, the disabled, and religious and ethnic interests. Schools and colleges are also included. The database is linked to our online consultation response facility, which enables people to view all comments and representations made by themselves and others in response to consultations. The database is open for any group or individual to register and receive notifications of future Local Plan consultations. Interested parties wishing to be added to the Local Plan consultation database should email [email protected]

4.10 In addition to complying with the basic consultation requirements set out in the relevant regulations (see para. 3.1), the consultation methods the Council will use - or will consider using, – for each consultation, are set out below.

Methods Actions Documents made This is a minimum requirement as set out in the Regulations. Relevant available for documents will be made available for inspection during consultation inspection periods at South Lakeland House, Kendal, at the Council’s offices in the Coronation Hall, Ulverston, and libraries at Kendal, Ulverston, Grange- over-Sands, Milnthorpe, Kirkby Lonsdale and Arnside. The availability of these documents will be advertised. All locations are accessible to people with disabilities. Where DPDs or SPDs relate to a part of the District only, relevant documents will be made available for inspection at South Lakeland House, Kendal, at the Council’s offices in the Coronation Hall, Ulverston, at Kendal library and other appropriate local libraries. Website Relevant documents will be made available on the South Lakeland District Council website and the primary method of responding to consultations is using the online response facility. Libraries in South Lakeland offer internet access and assistance to those who need it. There are also opportunities to respond to consultations via email and using electronic response forms. Letters / emails to Relevant bodies will be notified by letter or email at appropriate times specific bodies, as during the preparation of each Local Plan document, including at the listed in the beginning of each consultation. regulations

Emails Many people have chosen to receive notification of consultations on Local Plan and other documents by email. This is quicker and more cost- effective than postal correspondence. We will notify people of consultations on documents in accordance with their expressed interests. Media (local press, At the formal consultation stages, a notice will be published in the local TV, radio) press, with details of where and when documents can be inspected. It will also detail how and when to respond to consultation documents. Existing Channels & Full use will be made of existing channels of community representation Networks and standing forums. Key Stakeholder We will liaise with key stakeholder groups at key stages in the plan

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Groups making process, to discuss issues and keep them informed of progress. Questionnaires Questionnaires may be used to focus comments and to help ensure that feedback relates to issues that are within the scope of the document being consulted upon. Exhibitions, leaflets, Exhibitions, displays or drop-in events may be used at key stages or for posters certain documents to illustrate proposals, invite participation from a community or area, and provide for direct feedback. These will be advertised using methods such as local media, posters and leaflets. Events will always be held in locations that are accessible to people with disabilities. Focus Groups (and A variety of other meetings provide for structured participation in formats other Interactive such as ‘Planning for Real’, ‘Charrettes’, workshops and Focus Groups. Meetings) Such participation techniques may also be used in larger public meetings or standing forms. Newsletters The Council sends South Lakeland News to all households three times a year. In addition, a Local Plan newsletter is produced as appropriate. We will use these to update the community on progress in preparing the Local Plan and opportunities to get involved. Meetings with We will arrange meetings with local communities where proposals may Communities have a significant local effect. We will respond positively to requests for other meetings, where time and resources allow. The media, posters and leaflets may be used to advertise public meetings. Schools and We will consult secondary schools and colleges on relevant documents, Colleges and work with them to explore how to best obtain the views of young people (and their parents).

4.11 Formal consultation periods during the local plan process provide an opportunity for anyone to submit representations to the Council in writing, by email, or by using the Council’s online response facility. These formal public consultations take place:

 during plan preparation when the Council will consult publicly on the emerging plan for a 6 week period;  on the publication of the Local Plan document and supporting documents, when anyone can make formal representations to the Council during a formal 6 week public consultation. The Council send these representations to the Planning Inspectorate when submitting the Local Plan document and supporting evidence for independent examination; and,  at independent examination, those who submitted representations have the right to be heard by the planning inspector.

Conservation

4.12 The Council currently enables volunteers in local civic societies and preservation groups to undertake asset surveys of conservation areas, undertake heritage at risk audits and compile a list of locally important heritage assets in their areas. This information will be used to establish conservation area management plans and a district wide heritage strategy that will set out how the historic environment of the area will be conserved and enjoyed. We will consult publicly with the relevant communities when the individual management plans have been drafted - with the

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parish or town councils initially and then more widely through a public participation event in each area. It is our attention that these management plans be adopted as Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) and therefore the statutory requirements for consultation and timescales for the submission of representations in preparing SPDs will be adhered to. Any work on new conservation area designations will follow the same format of public engagement and participation.

Reporting back

4.13 We are committed to reporting back on the responses to consultation. Following each public consultation we will:

 give full consideration to all representations received and engage in further discussions where this will assist in developing the document;  make all responses available on our website; and,  for each document, we will produce an interim and a final consultation report, detailing the comments we have received, explaining our response to them and how they have influenced the preparation of the document. These reports will be made available on our website, at Council Offices and local libraries.

Neighbourhood Plans and Development Orders

4.14 Unlike other Local Plan documents, Neighbourhood Plans (and Neighbourhood Development Orders) are prepared by communities themselves through parish and town councils (in areas that are parished, like South Lakeland) and with the support of the local planning authority. Neighbourhood plans can establish policies to guide development in a neighbourhood, including the allocation of sites for development. A neighbourhood plan can only be approved if the majority of voters in the neighbourhood give vote in favour of the Plan at referendum. Neighbourhood plans must be in conformity with the strategic policies in the Local Plan produced by the Council and with national planning policy.

4.15 The procedures for preparing and consulting upon Neighbourhood Plans and Development Orders are set out in the Localism Act 2011 and the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012. They are similar to the procedures for preparing DPDs but with some key differences. Before preparing a neighbourhood plan or Order, the parish or town council must apply to the District Council to have the area to which they want the plan to cover designated as a Neighbourhood Area. When they receive this application, the District Council must undertake a consultation on the proposal. Once an area is designated, the parish or town council can prepare a neighbourhood plan or Order. As part of this process, parish/town councils are required to undertake public consultation themselves before submitting their plan or Order to the District Council, who must then publish the plan or Order for formal consultation. This is then followed by an independent examination and local referendum.

4.16 More information about this process and about neighbourhood planning in South Lakeland can be found on the Council’s website and, for those communities within

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South Lakeland that fall within the Lake District or Yorkshire Dales National Parks, information can be found on those authorities’ websites.

4.17 SLDC has set out what communities can expect from us in terms of supporting the neighbourhood planning process in a Neighbourhood Planning Statement of Support to Communities. This can be found at Appendix 2.

5. Community Engagement in the Development Management Process (Planning Applications)

5.1 We have long-established and successful methods of dealing with and consulting on planning applications and these methods, and the overall approach, will continue to form the basis for future consultations. These include:

Pre-application discussions

5.2 Set out below is a summary of how the Council will provide pre-planning application advice. Detailed pre-application advice; in terms of principles, the process, service and cost, will be given in a separate forthcoming Council document.

Pre-application consultation

5.3 We would expect developers to discuss their proposals with planning officers before submitting an application. This can confirm whether the principle of development is acceptable and clarify the format, type and level of detail required to enable us to determine an application.

5.4 Principles - South Lakeland District Council recognises that early engagement has significant potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning application system for all parties. Good quality pre-application discussion enables better co-ordination between public and private resources and improved outcomes for the community.

5.5 Before submitting a planning application, we would expect developers to avail themselves of our pre-application services. The more issues that can be resolved at pre-application stage, the greater the benefits. In this respect, consultation with statutory consultees can be particularly helpful.

5.6 For the planning system to be effective and positive, we will encourage statutory planning consultees to take the same early, pro-active approach, and provide advice in a timely manner throughout the development process. The participation of other consenting bodies in pre-application discussions should enable early consideration of all the fundamental issues relating to whether a particular development will be acceptable in principle, even where other consents relating to how a development is built or operated are needed at a later stage.

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5.7 The right information is crucial to good decision-taking, particularly where formal assessments are required (such as Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment). To avoid delay, we will discuss what information is needed by us and expert bodies as early as possible.

5.8 The Councils forthcoming separate pre-application advice document will set out the process; the principles against which, pre-application advice is offered, together with the six broad areas of advice offered.

5.9 The six broad areas of pre-application advice are:

 self-service;  heritage and trees;  correspondence offer;  standard pre-application advice and discussion;  specific pre-application advice and discussion; and,  planning performance agreement (PPA).

5. 10 Full details (current advice - scope of the pre-application service, advice and costs), can be found on the Council’s website using this link: http://tinyurl.com/pnjya7k

Publicising planning applications

5. 11 A weekly list of all applications is sent to parish and town councils and councillors. It is available on our website and electronic copies can also be made available on request to members of the public. Where it is a necessary legislative requirement we will advertise relevant applications in the local press.

5.12 Individual notification consultation letters are sent to neighbours (even if in another district), who can be identified from a plan and have a contiguous boundary with the development site. Others, who are considered likely to be affected by a proposal, are also notified. A site notice is put up for each application and applications are also available to view on our website. Neighbouring councils are consulted where appropriate.

5.13 Where appropriate we seek the views of other organisations, advisory groups, local amenity societies and residents’ associations. We consult the relevant parish/town council(s) and any other relevant statutory body, (i.e. Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency). All consultees have 21 days in which to respond to a standard application. Parish/town Councils have 28 days to respond to a major application.

5.14 Where applications would affect the character or setting of a listed building, or the character of a conservation area, or which in the Council’s opinion are likely to have implications for more than the immediate neighbours, notices are published in the local paper. 10

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5.15 The Council’s Conservation Officer is consulted on important applications in conservation areas or affecting listed buildings. Notices will be placed on site and in the press for all listed building consent applications. Information on advertisements is also placed on the website. Significant applications will normally be accompanied by a full planning application upon which the appropriate scale of neighbour consultation will be undertaken.

5.16 In the case of applications for major infrastructure, consultation is to be undertaken by the developer. Our role in these cases is to provide advice and an assessment of the appropriateness and effectiveness of the consultation, which will be reported to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS).

5.17 Appendix 3 – ‘Community Involvement in Planning Applications’ sets out the Council’s approach to consulting the community on planning applications.

5.18 Our Statutory Register of planning applications can be viewed online at www.southlakeland.gov.uk The Register includes forms, plans, drawings and reports accompanying the application and decision notices. Any comments received also form part of the Register and are made available online. Different documents are viewable at different stages of the application following guidance agreed by the Information Commissioners Office. Comments concerning planning applications are subject to certain principles in the ‘Data Protection Act’. If planning applications are submitted to the Council and the submission includes confidential information (e.g. financial information or personal medical information), then that will be kept confidential on request. As a rule, all documents are open to scrutiny. Paragraphs 21 and 22 below, give guidance on how to comment on a planning application(s).

5. 19 Planning applications and associated documents can be viewed online (including at South Lakeland House in Kendal and local libraries during normal opening hours without an appointment). Copies of documents may be purchased, (subject to copyright provisions).

5. 20 Meetings with planning officers are now available on an appointment basis only. If you wish to see a planning officer, please phone (01539) 793330 to make an appointment.

How to comment

5. 21 Comments may be made by anyone, regardless of whether they were consulted individually. We welcome any comments, whether in support of an application or objecting to it, although we can only take account of comments that relate to “planning considerations”. These include matters like the effect on traffic or parking, the appearance of the proposal, overlooking or disturbance, loss of light or privacy, impact on the local environment and whether the proposed use is suitable. We cannot take into account matters such as loss of property value, private disputes between neighbours, matters covered by leases or covenants, the impact of

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construction work, and competition between firms. The Council’s planning web pages include guidance relating to commenting on planning applications (http://tinyurl.com/j3z394t). Comments must include: the planning reference number, name and address and the date. Comments and personal details forming part of the planning application file are public documents and are available for people to read. Before publishing, the Council will remove signatures, telephone number and email address. Name and address will not be removed. If the Council considers any comments to be malicious or abusive we will not publish them. Only ‘material planning considerations’ will be considered in responses.

5. 22 We encourage all comments to be made within 21 days. Comments made electronically are encouraged. Comments received electronically will be acknowledged automatically. Postal comments will not be acknowledged. We aim to make all comments available to view on our website within 10 days of receipt.

Taking views into account

5.23 Many decisions have been delegated to officers by elected members, but if an application is to be decided by the Planning Committee, any officer comments are drawn to their attention before a decision is made. The Committee’s agendas are published five clear working days in advance and can be read on our website and at South Lakeland House. Planning Committee meetings are held in public and there is also a right to speak. Further details can be found at http://tinyurl.com/jhwfmhr (See General Public Participation Scheme and Planning Committee Public participation Scheme).

Letting people know the outcome

5.24 It is not possible to respond individually to comments made on a planning application. The decision notice is available for public view on our website. The decision notice will show reasons for the decision and any conditions that have been placed on the permission.

5.25 Only the applicant can appeal against the decision but, if an appeal is made, consultees / neighbours will be notified and will then have the opportunity of making further representations to the Government Planning Inspector dealing with the appeal. Other parties can apply to have the decision judicially reviewed and you should seek urgent independent legal advice because there are time limits to making such applications.

5.26 Appeal decisions can also be inspected on our website and at South Lakeland House.

6. Resources, Monitoring and Review

6.1 This Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) is based on experience to date and an assessment of the likely availability of resources in forthcoming years. It is not

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possible for the Council to resource large-scale, technologically advanced or more extensive community and stakeholder consultation. It has therefore sought to identify a community involvement approach that is effective, whilst being realistic and deliverable.

6.2 It is essential that sufficient resources are made available to implement the consultation measures set out in this SCI. The Council will be responsible for making appropriate resources available and it is envisaged at this stage that the proposed consultation measures can be met from resources within the Council itself. External facilitators will not be required to deliver the measures set out within this SCI, but if the future resource position changes, this position will be reviewed.

6.3 Over time, planning advice and practice changes and consultation techniques can be developed and refined further; for example, with technological advances and changes to legislative requirements or best practice advice, or where appropriate, by applying learning from consultation experience(s). There may also be changes in the resource position in future years. As a result, we will review the SCI when the degree of any changes that have taken place makes this appropriate, or when new policies or legislation requires it.

6.4 The measures proposed in this Statement of Community Involvement are the minimum measures to be undertaken. There are a number of other measures that offer significant benefits that we will seek to deliver, where possible, but cannot commit to due to resource constraints. Such measures include:

 employing external facilitators;  combining consultation exercises within other wider initiatives outside of the Council;  the use of computer modelling or other technology to present options, choices and consequences or provide alternative methods of responding to consultations; and,  the greater use of ‘Planning for Real’ (or similar) exercises and events which provide greater interaction for participants.

6.5 It is possible that through community involvement, either by developers of major schemes, or through regeneration initiatives, could offer the opportunity to trial some of these more advanced measures and give an indication of how useful they are in a local context.

6.6 We will seek feedback from consultees and will monitor the effectiveness and appropriateness of the approaches to consultation during and following each consultation undertaken. This will be reported in Consultation Statements/Reports. If monitoring reveals major omissions or problems with the approaches set out in this SCI, arrangements will be made to either review the document as a whole or in part. Additionally, where monitoring and assessment suggests that certain methods might be required in particular circumstances, such as for certain types of document or for certain stages of consultation, the Council will explore methods over and above those set out in this SCI to meet the needs of those particular consultations. 13

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Appendices

Appendix 1: Specific and General Consultation Bodies

Specific Consultation Bodies

The Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 define the following bodies as ‘specific consultation bodies’:

 The Coal Authority  The Environment Agency  Historic England (Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England)  Marine Management Organisation  Natural England  Network Rail Infrastructure Limited  Highways England.  Adjoining Local Planning Authorities  Relevant telecommunications companies  Primary Care Trust or successor body  Relevant electricity and gas companies  United Utilities (Water and sewerage)

General Consultation Bodies

The Government has defined General Consultation Bodies as voluntary bodies some or all of whose activities benefit any part of the authority’s area and other bodies who represent, in the authority’s area, the interests of different racial, ethnic or national groups; different religious groups; disabled persons; and, business interests.

Our own consultation database includes groups, organisations and companies from the following categories:-

Types of Consultee  Community Representation:  Councillors of South Lakeland District and Cumbria County Council (within the District);  Town and Parish Councils;  Local Area Partnerships;  Cumbria Association of Local Councils (CALC);  Members of Parliament;  Schools and Colleges;  Residents’ Associations;  General public and local communities;  Statutory bodies;  Government Departments;  Councils (in or adjoining the Local Plan area);  Agencies and organisations;  Developers, landowners and agents;  Hard to reach groups; and,  Interests, (see below).

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Interests  Voluntary sector;  Ethnic and religious;  Disabled persons;  Business, tourism and agriculture;  Housing;  Transport;  Nature conservation and landscape;  Historic conservation and amenity;  Sport and recreation;  Culture and art;  Older and younger people;  Residents and community groups;  Parish plan groups;  Health; and  Crime reduction.

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Appendix 2: Neighbourhood Planning Protocol

South Lakeland District Council Neighbourhood Planning Protocol: Statement of District Council support to town and parish councils (Outside the National Parks)

Purpose of this Protocol Neighbourhood plans are normally led by the parish/town council or, outside of parished areas, neighbourhood forums (qualifying bodies). The whole of South Lakeland District is parished, so in most areas, neighbourhood plans will be led by the relevant town or parish council(s). There are however different arrangements for parish meetings1. Neighbourhood plans need not be funded by the town or parish council - they can be funded in other ways, for example by a developer wishing to promote land through a neighbourhood plan. Under the Localism Act, South Lakeland District Council (SLDC), as the local planning authority for the District outside the National Parks, has a statutory duty to provide advice and assistance to communities choosing to undertake a neighbourhood plan. This protocol outlines the services that SLDC will offer to town and parish councils (or neighbourhood forums in areas covered only by parish meetings where relevant) in South Lakeland outside (or partly within) the National Parks, in order to fulfil this statutory duty and support and guide the preparation of neighbourhood plans. It also sets out what SLDC expect from town or parish councils (or parish meetings/neighbourhood forums where relevant) in the process. Of particular importance is the need for any community that is considering taking steps toward preparing a neighbourhood plan to get in touch with our Development Plans Team as early as possible so that we can assist in deciding whether this is the right way forward for that community or whether other options might be more appropriate. This protocol should be read in conjunction with the Parish Charter (http://tinyurl.com/otvs3ca) for South Lakeland (see page 7). General Support SLDC will: 1.1 Maintain a neighbourhood planning page on its website that identifies and provides links to key information and guidance about neighbourhood planning, including Neighbourhood Development Orders and other provisions of the Localism Act.

1.2 Provide advice and information to help communities understand the neighbourhood planning process and the funding, resources and skills that are available to support the process.

1.3 Offer advice on alternative options available to communities, such as Community Plans, to help local people decide which approach(es) is/are right for their area. We

1 Some parishes in South Lakeland are not covered by parish councils, but are led by parish meetings. Parish meetings do not have the same status as parish councils and if they wish to undertake neighbourhood planning, would need to make arrangements to create a neighbourhood forum unless they are working jointly on a neighbourhood plan with a neighbouring parish led by a parish council.

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recommend that communities interested in undertaking neighbourhood planning get in touch with SLDC’s Development Plans Team at the earliest opportunity and prior to any neighbourhood area designation application being made, to discuss the issues and approach being considered.

1.4 Provide advice relating to effective consultation, including on questionnaire design and how to maximise responses from all groups in the community, including access to our online survey site. We will, where resources permit, attend consultation events, if requested.

1.5 Provide a GIS mapping service and the provision of electronic versions and up to five printed copies of key maps for use at consultation events and workshops and for inclusion within draft and final plan documents. Parish councils will need to be aware of the Ordnance Survey user agreement prior to this work.

1.6 Provide the most up-to-date available evidence base, including the Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) and other evidence information supporting the South Lakeland Local Plan, by making them available on the Council’s website at http://tinyurl.com/njtofvs

1.7 Provide contact details of statutory consultees and other relevant groups.

1.8 Seek to foster a positive and ongoing relationship with town and parish councils throughout the neighbourhood planning process.

Supporting the Designation of Neighbourhood Areas/Business Areas SLDC will: 2.1 Meet local communities who contact us expressing an interest in neighbourhood planning, in order to provide initial advice and information and discuss options. Wherever possible, this should take place in advance of a Neighbourhood Area application being submitted.

2.2 Check and confirm receipt of any neighbourhood area application it receives and advise the applying qualifying body of any requirements omitted.

2.3 Map neighbourhood area boundaries required for the designation of the neighbourhood area or business area.

2.4 Publicise, in accordance with the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012, the application for a neighbourhood area or business area in a manner considered likely to bring the application to the attention of people who live, work or carry on business in the area to which the application relates. This includes through; SLDC’s website, local and social media, local libraries/inspection points and by writing to relevant organisations, businesses and individuals.

2.5 Carry out statutory consultation on the proposed neighbourhood area in accordance with the Regulations. This means we will consult for four weeks where the application falls entirely within one planning authority area and relates to a whole parish and six weeks in all other cases.

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2.6 Consider, in accordance with the Regulations, the boundary of the proposed neighbourhood area. Where the boundary is not considered ‘coherent, consistent and appropriate in planning terms’2, as set out in the Regulations, SLDC will work with the town/parish council to come to a suitable resolution and a decision will be made at a scheduled meeting of the Council’s Cabinet.

2.7 Determine the application within eight weeks where the application falls entirely within one planning authority area and relates to the whole area of the parish council, twenty weeks where the area straddles two local planning authorities and thirteen weeks in all other cases.

2.8 Publish details of all adopted neighbourhood plan areas or business areas on SLDC’s website and through other appropriate means as soon as practicable following formal designation.

Supporting the Preparation of Neighbourhood Plans SLDC will: 3.1 Provide advice on which issues are considered to be relevant planning matters and thus, are suitable for inclusion in neighbourhood plans.

3.2 Provide information on relevant European and national legislation and policies, and adopted and emerging Local Plan policies with which any neighbourhood plan will need to be in general conformity.

3.3 Share existing information and evidence base work held by the local planning authority as appropriate (subject to any data protection or confidentiality issues) and provide advice on any areas where new evidence may be required or beneficial to support the preparation of the Plan.

3.4 Help communities communicate with local partners and/or organisations where required.

3.5 Provide constructive comments on the emerging plan and other supporting documents prior to formal submission.

3.6 Carry out screening / scoping to identify and provide an opinion and advice on the need for a Strategic Environmental Assessment, Sustainability Appraisal or Habitats Regulations Assessment, except where consultants have been employed to prepare the neighbourhood plan.

SLDC will not:

2 This might be where areas of the parish have a more of a connection such as, but not exclusively, catchment area of services and facilities, location of main settlements or areas of population, physical connections, transport links with a neighbouring parish or where parts of the parish fall within a neighbouring urban area whilst others are rural, but there are many possible permutations and any such issues can be discussed at an early stage. 18

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3.7 Undertake consultation exercises, distribute consultation questionnaires, collect, collate or analyse responses on behalf of communities for consultation arising from requirements placed on qualifying bodies in the Regulations.

3.8 Provide project management services for the production of the neighbourhood plan.

3.9 Draft the neighbourhood plan or any part or policy therein, although we can identify examples in which similar plans or policies have been prepared and which may be helpful points of reference and can provide advice on wording. 3.10 Undertake the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Sustainability Appraisal, Habitats Regulations Assessment or Appropriate Assessment, even if these are required. Consultants will be expected to undertake these.

Independent Examination SLDC will: 4.1 Validate a neighbourhood plan on receipt, checking that all of the necessary supporting documents have been submitted.

4.2 Review the plan to ensure that it is in general conformity with the Local Plan and offer comments and suggestions as appropriate.

4.3 Publicise the neighbourhood plan on the Council’s website for a minimum of six weeks in line with the regulations.

4.4 Appoint and fund the independent examiner, who will check that the plan meets the material considerations. The selection of examiner will be agreed with the relevant town or parish council.

4.5 Provide an examination venue, if a venue is required and if no suitable parish venue can be provided.

4.6 Following the recommendations of the examiner, provide written confirmation of the Council’s position. This will cover any amendments that may need to be made to the plan before it proceeds to referendum and any extension of the referendum area beyond the designated neighbourhood area boundaries.

Referendum SLDC will: 5.1 Fund and organise the public referendum (two referendums will be required for business areas – one for residents and one for businesses).

Adoption SLDC will: 6.1 If the neighbourhood plan receives support at referendum from more than 50% of those that vote, then SLDC will formally adopt the neighbourhood plan and publish it on its website in accordance with the Regulations.

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6.2 Once adopted the Plan will form part of SLDC’s Development Plan. It will be a primary consideration in determining the outcome of planning applications relating to the neighbourhood or business area.

Obligations for Town and Parish Councils In order to receive the support from SLDC outlined above, town and parish councils should: 7.1 Ensure that they get in touch with SLDC’s Development Plans Team at the earliest opportunity (for instance, as soon as any decision is made that neighbourhood planning might be considered for the area) and prior to any neighbourhood area application being made, to discuss the issues and approach being considered. This will enable SLDC to programme and plan their support work and help the qualifying body come to a decision on whether neighbourhood planning is for them or whether another option might be more effective and appropriate.

7.2 Establish a steering group to develop the neighbourhood plan with a clear link to the parish council by way of an agreed Terms of Reference.

7.3 Arrange an initial meeting of the parish council and/or steering group and invite relevant SLDC officers to attend.

7.4 Prepare a project plan for the preparation of the neighbourhood plan, including an indicative timetable.

7.5 Provide SLDC with regular progress updates, especially at any key stages and when any decisions are made that will influence the content, aims and objectives of the plan.

7.6 Seek to foster a positive and ongoing relationship with SLDC throughout the neighbourhood planning process, including discussions at key stages such as preparation of the draft plan.

7.7 Provide SLDC with the final plan in electronic and paper format.

7.8 Provide SLDC with the results of any primary research and evidence gathered that would be beneficial to them.

7.9 Seek to accord fully at all times with the requirements in the relevant regulations and guidance for neighbourhood planning.

Plans in the National Parks SLDC will: 8.1 If the proposed neighbourhood planning area is intended to cover an area that is wholly in a National Park, the application for designation of the neighbourhood area should be made to the relevant National Park authority. Similarly, support for the work will be provided by the relevant National Park authority and completed plans will be adopted by the relevant National Park authority and not SLDC. However, SLDC hold

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responsibility for funding and running the referendum on plans for areas within the Parks (i.e. 5.1 will still apply).

8.2 If the proposed neighbourhood planning area is intended to cover an area that falls partially within and partially outside a National Park boundary, SLDC and the relevant National Park authority will agree how the process will be supported. A joint approach may be agreed. Unless there are other overriding considerations, the location of the largest settlement will determine which authority will provide the primary support to the community in the neighbourhood planning process. Both authorities will publicise the proposed neighbourhood area and the draft plan. It will however remain SLDC’s responsibility to fund and run the referendum (i.e. 5.1 will still apply). Following a positive referendum result they will, each adopt the plan in as far as it relates to their own part of the area.

General

The content of this statement is subject to change as a result of experience, new information, changes in process requirements and the availability of resources. Contact For further information please contact: The Development Plans Team South Lakeland District Council South Lakeland House Lowther Street Kendal Cumbria LA9 4UF

Telephone: (01539) 793388 Email: [email protected] www.southlakeland.gov.uk

Information on SLDC Website

Neighbourhood Plans

Our Neighbourhood Plans webpage (http://tinyurl.com/nckdy5v) provides links to information about funding and grants for Neighbourhood Planning.

Community Plans

Further information on Community Led Plans can be found on our website at http://tinyurl.com/pffabja

The Parish Charter can be found at http://tinyurl.com/otvs3ca

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Appendix 3 - Community Involvement in Planning Applications Approach Approach All Applications Applications Major Particularly applications. where the which might developments large or development affect the (for definition, significant may be of character see footnote developments wider and to this table or, departures interest, appearance below*). from the (e.g. of a listed development mini-cab building and plan. offices, bars conservation or, area. restaurants). Consultation letter to all properties that adjoin site and to other Yes Page 62 Page properties in the area that might reasonably be judged to be affected by the development (e.g. properties on the other side of the street) Weekly list of planning Yes applications Website Yes Site Notice Yes (Except Notices of Intention) Advert in local press Yes Yes Yes Consultation with local groups through weekly list Yes

Footnote to table above: * The definition of ‘Major’ development is given in the Department for Communities and Local Government’s (DCLG’s) collection of ‘Planning applications statistics’. See 2015 – July to September and subsequent updates. A link is here. https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/planning-applications-statistics. See: District Matters - major developments.

Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

Appendix 4: Duty to Cooperate Meeting Template (example)

Duty to Cooperate Meeting:

Name of Council and date:

Venue:

Those Present:

Purpose of Meeting:

Page 63 Page The Localism Act 2011 Section 110 sets out a ‘duty to cooperate’. This applies to all local planning authorities, national park authorities and county councils in England and to the following bodies: (relevant to the discussion); Environment Agency, Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England, Natural England, Civil Aviation Authority, Homes and Communities Agency, Primary Care Trust, Office of the Rail Regulator, Highways England, Highways Authority.

The duty:

 relates to sustainable development or use of land that would have a significant impact on at least two local planning areas or on a planning matter that falls within the remit of the county council  requires that councils set out planning policies to address such issues  requires that councils and public bodies ’engage constructively, actively and on an ongoing basis’ to develop strategic policies  requires councils to consider joint approaches to plan making.

Paragraph 178 of the NPPF states that public bodies have a duty to co-operate on planning issues that cross administrative boundaries, particularly those that relate to the strategic priorities set out in paragraph 156, as follows:

 homes and jobs needed in the area;  the provision of retail, leisure and other commercial development;

Statement of Community Involvement - March 2016

 the provision of infrastructure for transport, telecommunications, waste management, water supply, wastewater, flood risk and coastal change management, and the provision of minerals and energy (including heat);  the provision of health, security, community and cultural infrastructure and other local facilities;  climate change mitigation and adaptation, conservation and enhancement of the natural and historic environment, including landscape.

Common strategic issues identified:

Potential Issue Conclusions Actions Strategic housing sites – discussion around whether each district could meet its housing need. Strategic cross boundary employment issues The provision of retail and leisure Page 64 Page development. Transport issues – travel and transport routes – road / rail. Other infrastructure - Health Landscape issues / Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Environmental Issues including cross boundary Gypsy and Travellers – county wide assessment 2013 – any cross boundary issues? Renewables / energy Other items discussed.

Any Future Actions:

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Page 66 Appendix 2

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Page 68 Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Contents

1.0 Introduction ...... 2 2.0 The Consultation Process – how and when we consulted...... 2 Table 1 ...... 4 Part I – Summary of Responses Received ...... 4 Table 2 ...... 8 Part II - Summary of Responses Received ...... 8

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Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement:

Consultation on the Draft SCI – Summary of responses:

1.0 Introduction

1.1 The updated Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) sets out how the Council intends to consult with communities and stakeholders on statutory planning documents, planning policy guidance and planning applications. The updated SCI takes account of changes to planning legislation and regulation since the South Lakeland Council’s (“the Council’s”) adoption of the current SCI in 2006 (and amended in 2008). The consultation activities set out in the SCI comprise minimum requirements.

1.2 The Council’s Development Management Service is in the process of finalising detailed guidance concerning ’pre-planning application advice’. This additional guidance concerning pre- planning application advice, is separate and additional to the guidance in this revised SCI. The Council’s forthcoming pre – planning application guidance is expected to be finalised in spring 2016.

1.3 The updated SCI updates and once adopted, is intended to supersede the existing 2006 SCI (as amended). Looking ahead, the Council will continue to update and review the SCI to reflect future changes in planning regulation and legislation. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authorities, as separate local planning authorities, have their own adopted SCI’s to inform their consultation on plan preparation and planning applications in their areas.

1.4 Although there is no longer a legal requirement to consult on the updated SCI (some Council’s merely adopt them as policy). On this occasion, public consultation was agreed, as the changes to the updated SCI are quite significant. The following paragraphs set out how and when the Council formally publicly consulted on the revised SCI document, before it is reported to the Council’s Full Council for adoption.

2.0 The Consultation Process – how and when we consulted

2.1 The draft updated SCI document (consultation draft, November 2015) was reported to the Council’s Cabinet seeking authority to publicly consult at its meeting on 28th October 2015.Cabinet agreed the recommendation to; ‘approve the draft of a revised Statement of Community Involvement for Public Consultation’ and ‘authorises officers 2

Page 70 Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

in consultation with the Portfolio Holder to make minor presentational and non- substantive changes to the draft Statement of Community Involvement Prior to Public Consultation’.

2.2 The consultation draft SCI was formally publicly consulted on for a period of 6 weeks commencing on Friday 6th November and ending on 5pm on Friday 18th December 2015. The Council’s SCI web page included all relevant documents to view and / or download, which included:

 the updated SCI – (consultation draft, Nov. 2015);

along with the existing SCI:

 the current SCI adopted 2006; and  the SCI addendum (2008); and  SCI Inspectors Report, 2006; and  Statement of adoption (2006).

Information was also given on how to comment. The revised SCI was available to view on line or at the local libraries (Kendal, Grange over Sands, Kirkby Lonsdale, Ulverston, Milnthorpe and Arnside) during normal opening times. Consultation documents were also able to view at South Lakeland House, Lowther Street, Kendal, and at The Coronation Hall, Ulverston. To assist the Council in processing responses in a resource efficient way, responses were encouraged to be made electronically online. Alternatively, responses could be sent by email or by post to the Council. The SCI consultation web page and documentation advised that …‘responses will be used to help finalise the document, which will then be submitted to Full Council to consider for adoption’.

2.3 The updated SCI (consultation draft, Nov. 2015) was reported to the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny (“O and S”) Committee on 24th November 2015, so that Members could discuss and comment on the updated SCI and provide Member feedback as part of the consultation process. The comments/Member feedback from O and S Committee are set out in Table 1, Part 1, of the Summary of Consultation Responses Table, see below.

2.4 Table 1 below, Part II, sets out the responses that were received as a result of the 6 week public consultation on the updated SCI. The name / organisation of the respondent is given and a summary of their response, together with the Council’s response.

Page 71 Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Table 1

Part I – Summary of Responses Received

(From the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny (O & S) Committee)

Note: * O and S Minutes refer to specific ‘Sections’ in the revised SCI, they relate to the paragraph numbering in the revised SCI (Consultation Draft, Nov. 2015).

Note: The officer response refers to the relevant paragraphs both in the November 2015 consultation draft of the SCI and the final revised SCI, March 2016.

Paragraph Page 72 Page Number in Member Feedback Overview and Scrutiny the Officer Response Committee (24.11.15) Consultation (taken from final Overview & Scrutiny Committee Draft (Nov.) Minutes) SCI

Questions and Comments General Members appreciated that it was good to consult  See below response to specific from Members comment Parish Councils and other neighbouring bodies and Member comments. that there was a list of such ‘stakeholders’. However, there was a strong view that this, and some other areas, needed to be strengthened within the SCI.

Questions and Comments Paragraphs Each relevant section, e.g. paragraphs 4.10 and 5.4*  No change to the final revised SCI from Members 4.10 and 5.4 of the revised SCI, should list the range of bodies that text paras.4.10 (Nov. draft SCI needed to be consulted, such as Parish Councils, not para 4.10) and 5.5 (Nov. draft SCI simply referring to them as ‘key stakeholder’ or para 5.4). It is not considered consultee groups. necessary to list all of the range of consultation bodies, (key

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

stakeholder groups). There is a need to avoid repetition. Appendix 1 lists all of the ‘specific’ and the ‘General’ consultation bodies that the Council as local planning authority (LPA), are required to consult. The Table in Appendix 1, also gives an indication of the range of consultee types (organisations etc. and interest groups that are on the Council’s Local Plan consultation database (Jan., 2016). Page 73 Page Questions and Comments Paragraphs It was strongly felt that each relevant section, e.g. 5.2,  Final revised SCI (what was para. from Members 5.2, 5.4 and 5.4 and 5.16, of the SCI should be re-worded from 5.2 of the Nov. draft SCI) is 5.16. negative references (not being able to require deleted, except for the text ‘We developers to engage) to more robust language would expect developers to ‘encouraging’ or expecting them proactively to discuss their proposals with engage. planning officers before submitting an application. This can confirm whether the principle of development is acceptable and clarify the format, type and level of detail required to enable us to determine an application’. This now forms Para. 5.3 of the final revised SCI. ‘We would expect’ is now included in the final text in place of ‘we are keen to encourage’.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

 Final revised SCI para 5.5 (What was Para. 5.4 of the Nov. draft SCI): amended revised SCI text. 1st sentence, delete; ‘Whilst we cannot require that a developer engages with us’. Beginning of Para. 5.5 to read; ‘Before submitting a planning application, we would expect s developer(s)…’.

 Final revised SCI - The text for Para. 5.16 has been deleted (what was para 5.16 text - Nov. draft Page 74 Page SCI). Para. 5.17 of the final SCI has been amended. It now refers to Appendix 3 – ‘Community Involvement in Planning Applications. This sets out the Council’s approach to consulting the community on planning applications’.

Questions and Comments Paragraph It was suggested that Section 5.8, with reference to  Final revised SCI Para. 5.9 (was from Members 5.8 ‘major’ applications for the standard pre-application para 5.8 in the Nov. SCI draft). No advice option, should be redefined to incorporate the change to the final revised SCI ‘proportionate’ impact on an area or village, e.g. a text, concerning proportionate relatively minor development might equate to a impact. A new national charging ‘major’ impact for a small rural village. regime is split depending on the scale of use (this is different from significance, which is assessed as part of a planning proposal/

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

application). Scale of use, nationally, is defined as ‘major’, ‘minor’ and ‘other’. Paragraph 5.9 in the final SCI, refers to the six broad areas of pre-application advice expected to be offered. The Council’s forthcoming separate pre-application advice document is expected to be finalised spring 2016.

Questions and Comments Paragraph With reference to paragraph 5.10, it was felt that the  No change to the final revised SCI from Members 5.10 weekly planning applications list was too complex, text Para. 5.11, (was Para. 5.10 in didn’t provide clear information and needed to be the SCI Nov. draft). For Page 75 Page made more reader – friendly. information: New development management software is to be procured. It is likely that there will be significant changes in the information /presentation format of the ‘weekly list’ of planning applications.

Questions and Comments Appendix 1 – The general consultation bodies table in Appendix 1  Amend / revise the final SCI. The from Members ‘General needed to be presented on one page for clarity. Table in Appendix 1 of the SCI, Consultation revised for clarity. The list of Bodies Table’ ‘interests’ within the table now sits in the table underneath the list of ‘types of consultee’. The table amended to read downwards and not across.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Table 2

Part II - Summary of Responses Received

(Formal public consultation)

Note: The responses received, below, refer to specific ‘Sections’ in the revised SCI. They relate to the paragraph numbering in the revised SCI (Consultation Draft, Nov. 2015). The Council’s response refers to the relevant paragraphs both in the November 2015 consultation draft of the SCI and the final revised SCI, March 2016.

Page 76 Page Paragraph Number in Who the response was the What the response said Council Response from : Consultation Draft (Nov.) SCI

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.7 Development Management – Pre- Application  What was (para 5.7 - Nov. draft Garner Planning Discussions: SCI) has been deleted from the final revised SCI. The Council’s  If the authority intend to publish pre- Development Management application submissions and advice on the Service is in the process of Council’s website, then this is likely to finalising separate detailed discourage pre-application dialogue where the guidance concerning ’pre-planning person or organisation seeks initial advice in application advice’. This confidence. forthcoming additional guidance on pre -planning applications is separate and additional to

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

guidance in the revised SCI. The Council’s pre – planning application guidance is expected to be finalised in spring 2016.

 The Council intention to publish pre-application submissions and advice on the Council’s web site came out of the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) advocating national best practice.

 The Council will not make pre –

Page 77 Page application submissions and advice publicly available until the pre- application advice is finalised and approved by the Council.

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.16 Development Management – Public Exhibitions by Garner Planning Applicants:  Final revised SCI - the text for  You do not indicate the types of application Para. 5.16 has been deleted (what the planning authority will encourage was para 5.16 text - Nov. draft applicants to hold an exhibition. It may be SCI). Para. 5.17 of the final SCI intended for major applications only. You do has been amended. It now refers not indicate if this is to be encouraged pre or to Appendix 3 – ‘Community post application. Involvement in Planning Applications. This sets out the Council’s approach to consulting the community on planning

applications’.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

 The Council’s Development Management Service is in the process of finalising detailed guidance concerning ’pre-planning application advice’. This forthcoming additional guidance on pre planning applications is separate and additional to

guidance in the revised SCI. The Council’s pre – planning application guidance is expected to be finalised in spring 2016. Page 78 Page

 It is up to the applicant/developer to decide the method of public engagement.  Any applicant / developer can seek the Council’s advice.

Development Management – Definition Major Development:  Amend/revise the final SCI; Appendix 3 accordingly. Column  Appendix 3 does not include a definition of heading to Table in Appendix 3 Major developments. amended and a foot note added underneath the table and a link to DCLG’s national planning application statistics. The latter includes a definition of what is

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

classed as ‘major’ development in Districts. The link is to the Government’s Planning Application Statistics web page.

 An actual definition of what is major development within the revised SCI text is not given; as it is understood that this national definition may change in the future. Inclusion as such, will make the revised SCI out of date.

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.17 Development Management - Dealing with Public Page 79 Page Garner Planning Responses to planning applications:  Agree. See response also to Mr  Need to confirm in the SCI that all comments Garner’s comment in relation to made regarding applications cannot be made paragraph 5.20 of the draft Nov. in confidence and all names and addresses SCI. Final SCI revised. Text added will form part of the document to be made to paragraph 5.18 (Para 5.17 in available. Nov. Draft SCI) to cross refer to paragraphs 5.21 and 5.22 (was paras. 5.20 and 5.21 in Nov. Draft SCI) and the additional advice therein taken from the Councils Planning web page re. how to comment on planning applications.

 Agree. Add additional sentence to  Further to his comments concerning the final SCI paragraph 5.18 (was para confidentiality of pre-application advice, Mr 5.17 in Nov. SCI draft), as follows.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

garner also attached for information a copy of ‘If planning applications are the Information Officer’s Decision dated 28 / submitted to the Council and the 09/15 (ref. FER 0581990) relating to submission includes confidential Derbyshire Dales District Council, indicating information (e.g. financial that such information is confidential and does information or personal medical not need to be disclosed under the information), then that will be kept Environmental Information Regulations 2004. confidential on request. As a rule, all documents are open to scrutiny’.

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.19 Development Management –Planning Officers Garner Planning Meetings with Applicants / Agents:  Final revised SCI text Para. 5.20

Page 80 Page  Can you make clear that Planning Officers will (was para 5.19, draft Nov. SCI) always meet applicants and/or their agents on has not been amended to make it request. clear that planning officers will always meet applicants and/or their agents on request. Para. 5.20 of the final SCI reads, - ’Meetings with planning officers are now available on an appointment basis only. If you wish to see a planning officer, please phone (01539) 793330 to make an appointment’. Text in Nov. draft SCI para. 5.19, deleted from final SCI Para. 5.20 - ‘Council planning officers will meet applicants and/or their agents on request, except for on those limited occasions when the Council considers that a meeting will not

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

be helpful/constructive’.

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.20 Development Management – Dealing with Public Garner Planning Responses to planning applications:  Agree and noted. Text added to  Confirm that comments cannot be made in final revised SCI, para. 5.21, see confidence and names and addresses will be below (was Nov. Draft SCI Para. publicly available. Confirm that any 5.20). submissions of a personal or derogatory nature will not be taken into account or placed  The Council’s Planning web on the Register. page(s) advise that when commenting upon a planning application; ‘comments must include: the planning reference Page 81 Page number, name and address and the date. Comments and personal details forming part of the planning application file are public documents and are available for people to read. Before publishing, the Council will remove signatures, telephone number and email address. Name and address will not be removed. If the Council considers any comments to be malicious or abusive we will not publish them. Only ‘material planning considerations’ will be considered in responses’.

Christopher Garner, Para. 5.22 Development Management – Planning Committee,

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Garner Planning Right to Speak:  Agree and noted. It is, however, considered that the final revised  Applicants or agents should have the right to SCI, paragraph 5. 23 (Para. 5.22 speak at Planning Committee regardless of of Nov. draft SCI), should not be whether or not this is in response to an amended to reflect Mr Garners objector. At present the system is that the comment. applicant or agent can only speak in response to another objector. This has created an  The Council’s advice leaflet: Public abuse whereby there are contrived objectors Participation at Planning who turn out to be supporters and then the Committee’, (May 2015), already applicant/agent then has a right to respond. gives advice relating specifically to public participation/speaking at Planning Committee. Repeating Page 82 Page the same advice in the revised SCI is considered unnecessary. The revised SCI has the potential to become outdated; if it includes detailed advice already contained within separate Council approved development management guidance. Any changes, in the context of Mr Garner’s comment, are more relevant for consideration when the leaflet ‘Public Participation at Planning Committee’ is reviewed. The Council is currently actively reviewing / updating its advice concerning Public Participation at Planning Committee.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

 Links added to the final revised SCI, Section 5, Para. 5.23, re. the Council’s published advice leaflets; General Public Participation Scheme and Planning Committee and Public Participation.

Mr Andrew Hutton, General General Comment re. Consultation: Cumbria Constabulary comment  No further action /amendment  Although not a Statutory Consultee, the and on behalf of Police needed to the final revised SCI. Constabulary welcomes the opportunity to and Crime Commissioner engage with the planning process, to  Noted. The Council’s revised comment on community safety and crime Development Management prevention matters in planning applications, Checklist refers to the statutory Page 83 Page where appropriate. The Constabulary will duty under the Crime and Disorder endeavour to assist and support SLDC in the Act. formation of policy relating to these issues. Alan Hubbard, on behalf General Development Plan Documents: of the National Trust. Comment  No further action /amendment  The revised SCI is well written and set out in a needed to the final revised SCI. logical way, generally consider that it is ‘fit for purpose’.  The consultee database works well and is a satisfactory method of engaging the National Trust and engaging a wide range of interests and it should continue. It is useful in both the early and continued engagement of interested parties in development plan documents (consultations).

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Alan Hubbard, on behalf Table on Development Plan Documents – Table, Methods of of the National Trust. pages 6/7 of Community Involvement & Actions: Revised SCI  Concern that it is not immediately clear how those on the Development Plans Consultation  Noted. Amend table on page 6/7 in data base will be notified of consultations. For relation to ‘emails’ to refer to other example, in the fourth row the Table (pages documents and add that ‘we will 6/7 of revised SCI), refers to a number of notify people of consultations on consultees receiving notifications by email documents in accordance with which is satisfactory in itself, but this is their expressed interests’. referred to as being for ‘notification of consultations on Local Plan documents’, whereas the relevant interests of some Page 84 Page consultees will be broader than this and include SPD’s, development briefs, Conservation Area Appraisals and

Neighbourhood Plans. It would be helpful if the table confirmed that those consultees on the database will be notified of all forward planning / Conservation Area Consultations. Individual consultees are best placed to

determine what is of interest and relevance to them and where it needs to undertake a review and send a response.

 Noted. See above.  Adding a row to the Table to refer to ‘Bodies and individuals on the Council’s Consultee Database ‘would be a sensible addition’

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

Alan Hubbard, on behalf Paras. 5.3 to Development Management - Pre Application of the National Trust. 5.9 Charging:  Response noted. No further action  Since the previous SCI was adopted, the / amendment to the revised final Council has introduced a pre-application SCI needed (paras.5.3 to 5.10). charging system. It was not clear if there was The Council (Development any prior consultation upon this, but as far as Management) is preparing we are aware, if there was it did not include forthcoming detailed advice the National Trust. As an occasional user of relating to pre - planning the Development Management (DM) Service, applications. This specific detailed this is unfortunate, especially as there does advice is separate to the revised not appear to have been any consideration SCI. This pre- application advice is given to the provision of exemptions for expected to be approved in spring registered charities, which is a feature of

Page 85 Page 2016. The draft (Jan.) pre- schemes elsewhere, e.g. Eden Council. application advice relating to heritage matters advices that telephone advice relating to heritage matters is proposed to be free of charge, but, advise requiring a one off site visit or meeting will be charged a fee: £50 +VAT. In relation to the draft pre-

application advice, charities engaged in house building will be charged a fee for Council advice; there is no proposed exemption.

 Please notify of any future review of DM pre-  The National Trust (Mr. Hubbard) application charging arrangements and will be consulted on the Council’s specific consideration of an exemption for Development Management’s charities.

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

proposed Pre – planning application advice / charging arrangements.

Alan Hubbard, on behalf Para. 5.12 Development Management – Publicising Planning of the National Trust. Applications:

 The words ‘From April 2014’ at the start of the  Agree. Words ‘From April 2014’, third sentence are superfluous and can be deleted from the final revised SCI deleted? text para 5.13 (Nov. draft SCI para. 5.12).

Canal and River Trust Section 5 Development management – Pre – Application

Page 86 Page and Para. 5.5 Discussions:

 The Trust notes and welcomes the positive  Response noted .No further action approach to pre – application discussions in / amendment to the final revised Section 5 and particular the reference in Para. SCI needed para 5.6 (Nov. draft 5.5 to the inclusion of other statutory SCI para. 5.5). consultees in that process. The Canal and River Trust are keen to encourage and be involved in any pre-application discussions on proposals likely to affect inland waterways that we own or where development has a significant impact on the waterway.

Grange Town Council General Development Management & Development Plans – Comment Consultation Documents & Access to Council Offices and Public Libraries:  Local plan policy consultations: No  Grange Town Council is concerned that further action /amendment needed suggested community involvement relies to the final revised SCI. Grange

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

heavily on the public being able to access Library is open Monday to Friday libraries and Council offices to view hard 0930 – 1700 and Saturday 0930 – copies of documents and use the PC’s at 1300. Closed Sunday (as at 1st libraries to view them online. The strategies Feb. 2016.) The Council (SLDC) rely on libraries in particular being open and has no control on keeping the having internet access. library open on a Saturday afternoon and on Sundays.

 Development Management: Existing consultation concerning planning applications is fully electronic.

Natural England General Development Management & Development Plans: Page 87 Page Comment  Supportive of the principle of meaningful and  No further action /amendment early engagement of the general community, needed to the final revised SCI. community organisations and statutory bodies Natural England has no specific in local planning matters, both in terms of comments to make on the revised shaping policy and participating in the process SCI. of determining planning applications.  No specific comments to make on the revised SCI. Historic England General Development Management & Development Plans: Comment  At this stage Historic England have no further  No further action /amendment comments to make on the content of the needed to the final revised SCI. revised SCI. Marine Management General Development Plans & Development Management : Organisation (MMO) Comment  Planning documents for areas of coastal  Response noted. No further action

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

influence may wish to make reference to the /amendment needed to the final MMO’s licensing requirements and any revised SCI. The MMO is a relevant marine plans to ensure that statutory consultee, in terms of necessary regulations are adhered to. For (local planning policy). The MMO marine and coastal areas where a marine plan is ‘on’ the Council’s local plan is not currently in place, we advise local consultation data base. authorities to refer to the Marine Policy Statement for guidance on any planning activity that includes a section of coastline or tidal river. All public authorities taking authorisation or enforcement decisions that affect or might affect the UK Marine Area must do so in accordance with the Marine and Page 88 Page Coastal Access Act and the UK Marine Policy Statement unless relevant considerations indicate otherwise. Highways England General Development Management & Development Plans: Comment  No further action /amendment  Highways England (HE) has no specific needed to the final revised SCI.HE comments to make on this document at the have no specific comments current time. relating to the revised SCI.

Health and Safety General Development Management & Development Plans: Executive (HSE) Comment  The HSE in their response had no specific  Response noted. No further action comments relating specific paragraphs in the /amendment needed to the final revised SCI. revised SCI. HSE have no specific comments relating directly to the revised SCI.

HSE response relates to detailed points about  Response noted. No further action

Revised Statement of Community Involvement, Consultation Statement, March 2016

consulting HSE on future local plan documents /amendment needed to the final where detailed land allocations and use class revised SCI. HSE comments proposals are made, e.g. site specific allocations acknowledge that early of land in development planning documents. consultation can be an effective way of alleviating problems due to incompatible development in the later stages of the planning process. The HSE is already on the Council’s Local Plan Consultation data base.

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Page 90 Appendix 3

EIA Title: Revised Statement of Community Involvement (2016)

1.0 The public sector equality duty (2011) covers the following eight protected characteristics:

Age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity. The duty also covers marriage and civil partnership, but only relating to the elimination of unlawful discrimination (see below, 2.0).

1.1 SLDC includes “rurality” as an additional category in its equality impact assessments.

2.0 The General Equality Duty. SLDC, in the exercise of its functions, should: a. Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act. b. Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. c. Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

1 Page 91 Step 1

Summarise the subject and expected outcomes of this EIA.

The revised Statement of Community Involvement (SCI, March 2016) sets out how and when the Council will engage with the community and other key stakeholders when we prepare and revise local plan documents and consult on planning applications. The revised SCI updates and (when finalised and adopted by the Council), will supersede the existing SCI which was adopted in 2006 and amended in 2008. A revised adopted SCI will help to ensure that the Council’s engagement with stakeholders on the preparation and revision of local plan documents and on planning application takes account of latest planning legislation and regulations and is as equitable as possible, in terms of engaging with equality groups.

The consultation draft revised SCI was reported in October 2015 to the Council’s Cabinet which gave approval to publicly consult on the draft SCI for a 6 week period. The six week public consultation commenced on Friday 6th November and ended on Friday 18th December, 2015. Overview and Scrutiny Committee were also consulted. The revised SCI (consultation draft) was considered at Overview & Scrutiny Committee on 24th November, 2015. Members resolved that the draft SCI be noted and that their comments be considered as consultation feedback. The revised SCI (March 2016) Local Development Document (LDD), is to be reported to Full Council to seek approval for adoption as Council policy at its meeting on 31st March, 2016. The associated Consultation Statement is to be provided as Appendix 2 to the Council report.

Who are your main stakeholders and list any engagement undertaken (include surveys, feedback forms, complaints, statistics etc).

The revised SCI sets out when and how the Council will engage with the community and other key stakeholders when preparing and revising local plan documents and consulting on planning applications. The consultation processes and the methods proposed seek to ensure that consultations are inclusive in terms of engaging communities, including equality groups.

Key content changes from the current adopted SCI are : • the Government’s national planning requirement to consult ‘specific consultation bodies’ and other interest groups which cover the whole range of voluntary, community, special interest, amenity and business interests referred to as ‘general consultation bodies’. The revised SCI sets out these requirements and lists these groups. • National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) - the revised SCI reflects the NPPF in its approach to community engagement through early engagement in the local plan process and by encouraging pre- application consultations. The SCI also sets out how the community will be consulted on planning applications. • setting out the Council’s approach to engagement with stakeholders on strategic matters under the Localism Act’s ‘duty to cooperate’; and • setting out the what parish and town councils can expect from the District Council in terms of support in preparing neighbourhood plans.

The revised SCI sets out : • the Councils overall approach to community engagement,

2 Page 92 • how and when the Council will engage communities in the local plan process and the methods we will use, • the consultation processes associated with planning applications and Development Management, • the resources required to deliver the consultation methods proposed and how we will monitor and review our consultation processes.

The consultation activities set out in the revised SCI (March 2016) are a minimum requirement. The revised SCI gives an assurance to communities and other key stakeholders on what they can expect from the Council.

The main stakeholders in the revised SCI include South Lakeland residents, the wider public and communities, equalities organisations and other stakeholders such as statutory consultees, duty to cooperate bodies and infrastructure providers. Organisations that represent ‘harder to reach’ groups (such as the aged, the disabled, religious and ethnic interests, the young - schools and colleges etc.) are also referred to in the revised SCI – see Appendix 1.

Step 2

Equality Action Plan

In providing this service Mitigating actions (to avoid Lead Officer Complete will there be any negative negative impact): & Y/N impacts on the following When people? 1. Age (young and old) 2. Black and Minority Ethnic 3. Disabled 4. Faith/Belief 5. Sexual Orientation 6. Gender 7. Gender reassignment 8. Pregnancy and maternity 9. Marriage and Civil Partnership 10. People in rural areas

(See glossary below for definitions)

It is important that the Council’s The Council’s Local Plans Group Alastair McNeill, Y Local Plan Consultation Database regularly reviews its consultation Development is kept up to date with relevant database to ensure that Plans. At least contacts / organisations. organisations /consultee groups annually. that represent the groups of people, above, are up to date and relevant.

Step 3

Examples of good equality practice you have put in place (For example, all venues used are accessible for people with mobility, hearing and sight impairments)

3 Page 93 March 2016 Revised SCI: • consultation methods – approach updated to also include social media. • Seeking feedback from consultees following consultations. • there are a number of other measures that offer significant benefits that the Council will seek to deliver, where possible, but cannot commit to due to resources, these are listed in the revised SCI, and include: combining consultation exercises within other wider initiatives outside the Council, the greater use of Planning for Real (or similar exercises and events which provide greater interaction for participants). • Regularly reviewing contacts/organisations on the Council’s Local Plan consultation database, to ensure contacts are up to date and relevant.

Date: 19 02 16 EIA Author(s): Elizabeth Scott – Clarke Assistant Director (Strategic Planning): Ian Hassall Document version number: 2 (SCI version considered for adoption) Date for Review: N/A EIA forwarded to Policy Officer Yes, 19 02 16 and 29 02 16.

Glossary

Age: This refers to a person having a particular age (for example, 32 year-olds) or being within an age group (for example, 18-30 year-olds).

Civil partnership: Legal recognition of a same-sex couple’s relationship. Civil partners must be treated the same as married couples on a range of legal matters.

Disability: A person has a disability if s/he has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Includes: Physical/sensory disability: Mental Health: Learning disability.

Gender reassignment: This is the process of transitioning from one sex to another, considered a personal process rather than a medical one and it does not require someone to undergo medical treatment in order to be protected.

Maternity: The period after giving birth. It is linked to maternity leave in the employment context. In the non-work context, protection against maternity discrimination is for 26 weeks after giving birth, including as a result of breastfeeding.

Race: It refers to a group of people defined by their colour, nationality (including citizenship), ethnic or national origins. Includes, Asian, Black and White minority ethnic groups inc. Eastern Europeans, Irish people and Gypsy Travellers.

Religion or belief: “Religion” means any religion, including a reference to a lack of religion. “Belief” includes religious and philosophical beliefs including lack of belief (for example, Atheism). The category includes, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and non religious beliefs such as Humanism.

Sexual orientation: This is whether a person's sexual attraction is towards their own sex, the opposite sex or to both sexes.

4 Page 94 Item No.7

South Lakeland District Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 22 March 2016 Cabinet - 23 March 2016 Council - 31 March 2016 SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT AND COMMISSIONING STRATEGY 2016-19

PORTFOLIO: Councillor Jonathan Brook – Innovation and Improvement

REPORT FROM: Shelagh McGregor – Assistant Director (Resources) & Section 151 Officer

REPORT AUTHOR: Karen Crump – Procurement and Contracts Manager

WARDS: All Wards

KEY DECISION NO: Not Applicable

1.0 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 A revised Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-19 will reflect changes in legislation, best practice and ensure that the Council pursues continuous improvement in its procurement function that helps deliver Council priorities and sustainable outcomes with good value for money. 2.0 RECOMMENDATION 2.1 It is recommended that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee comments upon the draft Strategy and makes any recommendations to Council. 2.2 Cabinet is asked to consider the Strategy and any representations from Overview and Scrutiny Committee for referral to full Council. 2.2 It is recommended that Council considers any comments from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee / Cabinet and adopts the Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-19. 3.0 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS 3.1 Procurement including commissioning is a key function across the Council, and the Procurement and Commissioning Strategy forms part of the Council’s Policy Framework. It supports delivery of Council priorities and services through the procurement of goods and services. These cover a wide range of

Page 95 items from stationery and postal through to waste resource vehicles involving a diverse mix of suppliers. 3.2 The current Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2013-16 needs to be replaced to fully reflect increasing complex changes in national and EC legislation, national and local best practice and also the local needs of local communities. So it is important to have a strategic approach to delivering sustainable, best value outcomes that meet local needs and helps keep track of, and better plan procurement activity. 3.3 The Council achieves its priorities and delivery of services often through working in partnership. This is another element of a strategic approach to procurement. The Council has some significant long-term contracts which are increasing seen as effective working ‘partnerships’ to deliver common goals. This allows far wider benefits from outcomes (social, health, economic and environment). 3.4 This Strategy also aims to be flexible in line with a fast-changing environment. In particular, innovation is encouraged such as more electronic processes. 3.5 The Council’s Contract Procedure Rules have been reviewed and updated to further streamline procurement processes, which will reduce bureaucracy and result in the faster award of contracts. The new rules come into effect on 1st April 2016. Some of the changes are referred to in the Annual Procurement Update report to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 22 March 2016.

3.6 Procurement officers work with the Council’s Contract Management Group considering contractual and procurement issues and processes. Officers are also involved with North West procurement networks sharing and developing best practice.

3.7 Procurement support is also offered to Eden District Council so having an up- to-date, robust and flexible strategic approach will enable partnership support opportunities to be pursued.

3.8 Comments are requested on the draft Strategy which is recommended to be adopted. It should also be noted that an Action Plan will be produced and reported upon (annually to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee). 4.0 CONSULTATION 4.1 The Portfolio Holder for Innovation and Improvement has been consulted, and is supportive of the strategy. 4.2 Practical discussions have taken place with business support organisations and various members of the council’s supplier base in helping inform the draft Strategy for an improved approach to sustainable procurement process and good value for money. 4.3 Finally with changes to the national context including amendments to the EU Procurement Directives, introduction of a new National Procurement Strategy and further obligations under the Transparency Code, it has proven vital to maintain links outside of Cumbria in understanding the most successful way in adopting these.

Page 96 5.0 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 It is important that the Council maintains an up-to-date forward looking strategic approach to procurement activity that supports delivery of Council priorities and services and offers good value for money. Not doing so would put the Council at risk of not meeting legislative requirements but providing an inefficient procurement function. 6.0 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 A good, strong and sustainable approach to procurement will support delivery of all Council priorities and services. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 Excluding staffing, there is an annual procurement budget of £18,462 which supports procurement tools, activities and training. 7.1.2 The procurement team have continued to support the generation of savings through procurement activity over the last 12 months. 7.1.3 There are no direct financial implications of the Procurement Strategy although cashable and non-cashable efficiency savings are anticipated. 7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 During the past 12 months the Procurement Team has been maintained at full capacity with two permanent posts; Procurement and Contracts Manager and Procurement Officer. 7.3 Legal 7.3.1 New European Regulations were transposed early into UK law as The Public Contracts Regulations 2015 on 26th February 2015. This has resulted in significant changes to procurement activity over and below the EU thresholds including:  A greater flexibility to negotiate  Further focus on the pre-procurement phase, predominantly market consultation  A simplified selection process with a single Pre-Qualification Questionnaire to be adopted nationally for procurements over the EU thresholds  A requirement to have all tender documentation prepared prior to publication of the contract opportunity  E-tendering to be mandatory by 2017 7.3.2 Procedures and practices have been amended to encompass these changes as well as the Social Value Act and all other relevant legislation. 7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 A Sustainability Impact Assessment (Appendix 2) has been conducted for the new Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-2019. It is anticipated that delivering the Strategy will have a positive impact with socio- economic and environmental considerations becoming integral to procurement activity across the Council.

Page 97 7.5 Equality and Diversity 7.5.1 An Equality Impact Assessment (Appendix 3) has been conducted for the strategy and actions are in place to support a positive impact from delivering the strategy. 7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required Procurement activity The Council is subject to All procurement activity does not comply with legal challenge which is run through the the legal framework. carries both risk in terms Procurement Team with of cost and reputation. input from Legal as necessary. Results of procurement The Council’s reputation Continue to consider activity do not offer is brought into question cost, quality and added value for money to the for its handling of value in all procurement communities of South council budgets and activity with support Lakeland. ratepayer’s money. from the Procurement Team. The Sustainable The Council delivers a Continued liaison with Procurement and procurement function internal officers and Commissioning Strategy which does not fully external agencies to is not delivered in full. support the Council in support the delivering priorities and Procurement Team in services that meet local delivering the Strategy. needs.

CONTACT OFFICERS Report Author – Karen Crump, Procurement and Contracts Manager, (01539) 793145, [email protected] APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT * Appendix No. 1 Draft Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy Action Plan 2016-2016 2 Sustainability Impact Assessment 3 Equality Impact Assessment

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background Where it is available document Council Constitution (Contract http://tinyurl.com/kfk26gb Procedure Rules)

Page 98 TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee 10/3/16 11/3/16 10/3/16 10/3/16 22/3/16 Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer 31/3/16 10/3/16 Human Resource Services Leader Ward Manager Councillor(s) 10/3/16 N/A

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Page 100 Appendix 1

South Lakeland District Council

Draft Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-19

Contents

Page No.

1. Introduction 3

2. Procurement in Context 4

3. Our Commitment 6

4. The Council’s Priorities 7

4.1 Making Savings 7

4.1.1 Category Management 8

4.1.2 Partnering and collaboration 8

4.1.3 Contract and Supplier Management 8

4.1.4 Performance and Transparency 8

4.1.5 Risk and Fraud Management 8

4.1.6 Demand Management 8

4.2 Supporting Local Economies 9

4.2.1 Economic, Environmental and Social Value 9

4.2.2 Improving access for SME’s and VCSE’s 9

4.3 Leadership 9

4.3.1 Commitment 9

4.3.2 Strategic commissioning 9

4.3.3 Training 9

4.4 Modernising Procurement 9

4.4.1 Commercialisation and income generation. 9

4.4.2 Outcome specifications 9

4.4.3 Terms and conditions 10

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4.4.4 e-procurement 10

4.4.5 Opportunities presented in the new EU Directives 10

4.4.6 Strategic relationships with the professional buying consortia 10

5. Embedding Delivery 10

6. Monitoring and Review 10

7. Seeking Improvement 11

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Sustainable Procurement & Commissioning Strategy

2016-2019

1. Introduction

The Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-2019 (‘the Strategy’) sets the framework for South Lakeland District Council (‘the Council’) to purchase goods, services, and works to deliver value for money and to meet the needs of local citizens. It incorporates the most appropriate elements of best practice in structure, policy and procedure, and will remain sufficiently flexible to respond to both internal and external change.

In keeping with the ambition of the Council’s needs led approach and the emphasis placed on procurement by the government, this procurement strategy sets high standards for South Lakeland District Council. Delivery will require commitment, action and buy-in from members, staff and suppliers if South Lakeland’s citizens are to receive high quality and cost effective services.

This document should be read in conjunction with the Council’s Constitution Rules of Procedure Part 4 (Contract Procedure Rules) which details the contract procedure rules to be followed. Additionally, the Council’s procurement Toolkit provides guidance and templates which are available to support staff in meeting their procurement responsibilities.

Procurement and Commissioning

Procurement is defined as the process of acquiring goods, works and services and covers the full lifecycle from the initial concept to the end of useful life of an asset or service. It has a wider scope than ‘purchasing’ or ‘buying’; as a public authority it concerns securing products and services that best meet the needs of the community whilst taking into account the fundamental principles of efficiency, economy and effectiveness.

Commissioning can be defined as securing services that essentially address the needs and wishes of the service user as determined through research and planning.

Procurement and commissioning are interrelated functions that at a basic level combine the identification of a need through stakeholder and customer engagement with the ultimate goal of sourcing the most appropriate delivery option based on the intended outcome.

Throughout this Strategy the term ‘procurement’ will encompass both concepts.

SLDC’s Vision and Values

South Lakeland District Council is committed to making South Lakeland ‘the best place to live, work and explore’. Responsible and innovative procurement can support this vision by embedding the Council’s values of empowering people, excellence, and openness and transparency whilst delivering value for money and meeting citizens’ needs. 3 | P a g e

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There is a substantial challenge ahead with the current economic climate placing public sector finance under increasing pressure and scrutiny. In response, obtaining value for money and creating opportunities for economic growth will be at the forefront of all procurement activity. As an enabling authority this is fundamental to our business processes.

This Strategy is informed and supports the values and priorities of the Corporate Strategy in full. It will be reviewed annually to reflect the evolving needs of the Council.

Purpose of the Strategy

The Strategy provides a framework for a strategic approach to procurement throughout the Council. It emphasises the importance of procurement decisions and will be communicated widely to Members, officers, partners, suppliers, stakeholders and the community.

It is designed to ensure compliance with existing procurement legislation, predominantly the EU Procurement Directives, and reflects all related legislation and national policy drivers including the Social Value Act, Localism Act, advances in Equalities legislation, National Procurement Strategy, Transformational Government Agenda, the ‘Roots’ Review and the Sustainable Task Force’s Report ‘Procuring the Future’.

The importance of sustainable procurement is emphasised; using procurement to support wider social, economic and environmental objectives in a way that offers real long term benefits. The Strategy is constructed to highlight our commitment to a more sustainable district, and to enable us to demonstrate improvement in delivering sustainable outcomes through effective procurement practices.

Ultimately the Strategy paves the way for the Council’s contribution to the broader public procurement landscape – one which promotes the needs of the South Lakeland community, fosters innovation and efficiency, and uses procurement to develop and shape the local economy.

Intelligent procurement is vital not only in improving the quality and cost effectiveness of services across the district, but in demonstrating the type of authority the Council wants to be and shaping how we are perceived by our stakeholders.

2. Procurement in Context

Value for Money

The Local Government Act 1999, which was later reinforced by the Best Value Statutory Guidance 2011, placed a duty on all Local Authorities to secure Best Value, with strategy and good procurement skills widely recognised as essential to delivering value for money.

National Context

Throughout the public sector, there is a growing demand for services and falling funding levels. This has meant that authorities must find ways better ways of using resources such as increased collaboration, creation of Shared Services, moves to standardisation of 4 | P a g e

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requirements, purchases, processes and documentation, and increased levels of challenge and requirement for competition in procurement.

Authorities are required to evidence continuous performance improvement through inspections, audits, spending reviews and national procurement targets. This has led to authorities needing to prioritise and adequately resource contract management as a mechanism for ensuring value for money is consistently delivered and that demonstrable continuous performance improvement becomes a core requirement of all contracts.

Competitive markets and variety of service provision options are very important in supporting value for money and choice for customers. This has driven an increased focus on market stimulation and supply chain management to ensure a sustainable mix of suppliers from all sectors in the long and short term.

Changes in customer demographics, expectations and complexity of requirements (particularly for vulnerable customers) has highlighted the need to mitigate and manage risk to ensure continuity of quality service delivery to customers and to challenge traditional assumptions of service provision and ‘Make or buy?’ decisions. Robust business cases and options appraisals should be used to stimulate innovation and improvement when selecting in-house or outsourcing of service provision and ensure long-term consequences of decisions are considered and addressed.

Developments in Technology and extension of its use in service delivery is leading to mobile working and automation of transactions. This reduces the effect of geographical limitations, aiding process efficiency and supporting the extension of collaboration opportunities from a sub-regional to an (inter)national level.

Mounting emphasis on the importance of sustainability of communities and reducing environmental impact in all activities with environmentally positive options being taken wherever viable and a similar approach encouraged throughout the supply chain, and work with organisations such as the Chambers of Commerce to support local companies, Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Voluntary, Charity and Social Enterprises (VCSE) organisations to develop transferable skills and ability to win business.

There is a growing need for access to experienced, trained and adaptable procurement professionals with strong business skills and ‘intelligent purchasers’ within service delivery units to support the increase in procurement, contract management, supply chain and market development activities. This requires formalised approaches to Skills & Capacity building and management in order to ensure development of professionals for the future and make provision of training and skill development tailored to the differing roles of purchasers across local government.

Greater citizen involvement in decisions regarding resource allocation and service provision decisions is required. This can reduce the autonomy of service delivery units and requires the balancing of customer choice, needs and expectations.

Public procurement in the UK is governed by legislation set out in the EU Procurement Directives and enforced nationally by the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. These provide a legal obligation to comply with the EU Treaty based principles of non-discrimination, equal treatment, transparency, mutual recognition and proportionality. This is accompanied by other relevant legislation including the Freedom of Information Act 2000, Data Protection Act 1998, Equalities Act 2010, Localism Act 2011, Social Value Act 2012 and the Bribery Act 2010.

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The Council’s approach is to adopt best practice in complying with legislation, supporting the National Procurement Strategy for Local Government in England 2014, and utilising tools such as the Sustainable Task Force’s Flexible Framework to embed sustainability as a core business consideration.

Local Context

Procurement at South Lakeland District Council is governed by the Council Constitution, predominantly the Contract Procedure Rules and Financial Regulations, and all other internal policy and procedures. It also supports the Cumbria Third Sector Compact and the various regional procurement initiatives across the North West.

The Council understands that in addition to national drivers, local factors are of primary importance in ensuring positive results for the South Lakeland community.

Partnership Working

South Lakeland District Council recognises the benefits of working with partner organisations and has developed a shared service procurement arrangement with Eden District Council. The Council is also a member of Effective Procurement in Cumbria (EPiC), a collaborative procurement arrangement across Cumbria which includes the County Council, the six District Councils, the NHS, Cumbria Constabulary and the Lake District National Park Authority.

The Council has also carried out many joint procurement exercises with neighbouring authorities.

Going forward it is intended that the Council will work closer with partners and other organisations to optimise service delivery and stimulate economic growth.

3. Our Commitment

The needs of the community will be fundamental to the decisions we make with innovative and agile procurement practices adopted to support the local economy and deliver more sustainable outcomes.

In order to maintain the Council’s reputation and reflect the expectations we have of our suppliers all procurement activity will be undertaken to the highest standards of probity and professionalism. Members and officers will not only be fair and ethical, but will avoid conduct that is capable of being placed under adverse interpretation.

Procurement will therefore be undertaken in compliance with the following principles:

All procurement activity will comply with the EU Treaty and Procurement Directives, UK Legislation, the Council Constitution and all other relevant policies and procedures

Procurement will be fair, open and transparent and undertaken to the highest standards of probity, integrity, honesty and professionalism

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The Council will undertake procurement activity using the most efficient and effective methods and will select the most appropriate delivery mechanisms to ensure value for money

All procurement activity will include due consideration of social, health and wellbeing, economic and environmental factors and will be assessed on whole life costing

Robust contract management will support improved service delivery through continuous improvement in the quality of goods, works and services

4. The Council Priorities

Procurement activity will be coordinated and focussed to support the delivery of corporate priorities by:

Enabling and delivering opportunities for sustainable economic growth

Encouraging local suppliers to bid for Council contracts

Writing contract specifications for goods that will make a positive impact on the local economy and community

Providing homes to meet need

Supporting service areas in key procurement activity

Protecting and enhancing our environment

Delivering environmental and social outcomes from procurement activity, e.g. reducing energy consumption; reducing carbon footprint.

Improving health and reducing health inequalities

Engaging with the community to understand their needs

Commissioning services which are environmentally and socially responsible

Delivering real value for money for the residents of South Lakeland through our procurement decisions

In order to support the Council’s ambitions this Strategy includes the following procurement priorities:

4.1 Making Savings

South Lakeland District Council is dealing with significant financial pressures resulting from reductions in government funding and rising demand. This means using spending power wisely and strategically by the effective use of:

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4.1.1 Category Management of key areas of spend – like energy, ICT and construction, This can help to reduce the cost of buying goods and services, reduce risk in the supply chain, increase overall value from the supply base and gain more innovation from suppliers. When applied effectively, this seeks to reduce demand, simplify the way we buy and aggregate spend across the entire council or multiple organisations. The results can be significantly greater than traditional transactional based purchasing.

4.1.2 Partnering and collaboration – identify further opportunities to aggregate spend through effective collaboration with other EPiC partners or Public Buying Organisations (PBO’s). Explore options relating to sharing services or posts with appropriate partners, further develop the shared service with Eden District Council.

4.1.3 Contract and Supplier Management

Implement a corporate approach to contract and supplier management to obtain best value from supply chains through:

- Measuring contract outputs and key performance indicators to ensure competitiveness over the contract - Ensuring visibility of supply chains - Expecting main contractors to act fairly with supply chains and mandate timely payment to subcontractors through contract clauses - Developing and sustaining a capacity for good contact management - Scrutinising strategic contracts post award and ensuring benefits are achieved - Monitoring and enforcing compliance to ‘on contract’ spend - Developing and agreeing exit strategies within all major contracts

This will help to identify and manage the council’s and the suppliers’ risks, and achieve savings and continuous improvement throughout the life of the contract.

4.1.4 Performance and Transparency

4.1.5 Risk and Fraud Management

Understand and develop a proportionate risk management approach by:

- Integrate risk management into Procurement processes. - Proactively auditing contracts to check for fraud - Including whistleblowing policies as part of contract conditions

4.1.6 Demand Management

Costs and oversupply are reduced through the implementation of demand management techniques within the procurement and commissioning cycle through:

- Engaging with citizens, customers, and users and building in a demand management approach before procurement begins - Seeking alternative mechanisms to procure citizens’ needs -

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4.2 Supporting Local Economies

4.2.1 Economic, Environmental and Social Value

The Council will focus on providing the maximum benefit to its citizens from every taxpayer pound that is spent and will take responsibility for generating economic, environmental and social growth in local communities through:

- Considering how to obtain social value in all tenders - Considering sustainability at the ‘identify need’ stage of the procurement cycle

4.2.2 Improving access for SME’s and VCSE’s through:

- Pre-market engagement - Ensuring that strategies for organising procurements into lots does not create unwanted barriers for smaller businesses - Use of portals to advertise tender opportunities - Promoting skills development to provide local organisations with the tools to compete effectively.

4.3 Leadership

4.3.1 Commitment from the top, through:

- Procurement is recognised as strategically important by the Chief Executive, members and senior officers within the Council - Designation of a member champion for procurement. - The Chief Finance Officer takes overall strategic responsibility for procurement and ensures full value is extracted from all procurement decisions - The procurement strategy is linked to the corporate strategy

4.3.2 Seeing procurement as part of a strategic commissioning cycle requiring stronger engagement and alignment of procurement with commissioners. Identify strategic outcomes in relation to assessed user needs, and design and secure appropriate services to deliver these outcomes.

4.3.3 Procurement Training to develop a more commercially-focussed procurement culture through building procurement competencies. Ensuring staff are equipped with knowledge, training, and practical skills and empower them to deliver intelligent procurement.

4.4 Modernising Procurement

To rise to the challenge local government procurement needs to modernise in terms of scope, use of technology and practices and procedures by:

4.4.1 Procurement activities helping the Council to respond to financial pressures through commercialisation and income generation.

4.4.2 Using outcome specifications and other methods to encourage supplier innovation.

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4.4.3 Ensuring terms and conditions are flexible enough to allow for changes in technology during the life of the procurement

4.4.4 Further developing appropriate e-procurement and other solutions in procurement practices, e.g. e-invoicing to make best use of technology and to make it easier for partners and suppliers to work with the Council.

4.4.5 Taking advantages of the opportunities presented in the new EU Directives which allow council procurement processes to be quicker, simpler, and less costly to run.

4.4.6 Develop strategic relationships with the professional buying consortia and other public sector organisations which can deliver leading-edge practice in category management, and reduce duplication of effort through the utilisation of appropriate framework agreements.

5. Embedding Delivery

In keeping with the ambitions of the Council Plan and the emphasis placed on public sector procurement by the Government, this Strategy sets high standards for the Council. Delivery will require commitment and willing from Members, officers and suppliers if the South Lakeland community is to truly benefit.

Contract Management Group

To re-enforce our commitment to continual improvement through robust contract management a Contract Management Group will meet regularly. The group will rely on the participation of all officers who monitor key contracts and arrangements across the Council, and will look at developing current contract monitoring procedures, share best practice and ensure a more pragmatic approach to contract management.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Council’s Procurement and Contracts Manager will take ownership of the Strategy with overall responsibility for maintaining, monitoring progress, and developing it.

Monitoring

Implementation of the Strategy will be supported by the Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Action Plan which includes measurable targets for delivery. These targets will be placed on the Council’s performance management system which will be utilised to monitor progress and demonstrate transparency and accountability. This will be updated in line with any developments of the Strategy in support of continuous improvement across the procurement function.

Progress against the Strategy will be reported to Senior Management quarterly and Cabinet annually. Alignment with corporate rules and objectives, and compliance with legislation will be monitored by the Procurement Team.

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Review

The Strategy will be reviewed annually to ensure it meets the needs of all stakeholders including elected members, officers, public and private sector partners, local and third sector organisations, and the South Lakeland community.

In addressing the fast pace of change in local government the Council will adopt a more innovative approach to procurement built on an ethos of continuous improvement.

7. Seeking Improvement

In order to support this Strategy it is vital that good practice is shared across all service areas and common standards are adopted. Continual improvement and innovation across the Council is essential if we are going to exceed customer expectation and deliver improved quality within budget.

The Procurement Team will:

- Constantly monitor procurement performance against leading authorities and organisations, and create a culture of continuous improvement - Provide professional support, advice and informed knowledge to members and staff on procurement matters in order to contribute to the wider Corporate Plan - Raise procurement standards across the Council and our partners throughout the contract lifecycle, with specific emphasis on contract management to ensure the full benefits of procurement are realised

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Page 112 Appendix 2

SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT AND COMMISSIONING STRATEGY 2016-19 - SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT

1) Does this project / service/ strategy etc. affect each of the impact areas (Q 1-9) 2) Consider whether the impact is positive, negative, neutral or not applicable for each question/ category below. 3) Use the sustainability impact assessment guidance (p3-4) to answer each question 4) The overall impact of the assessment (positive, negative, neutral, n/a) will be entered into the final line and used in the committee report.

Impact Area Summarise the Summarise the Negative Summarise the Neutral N/A Positive Impact (and any Impact Impact mitigating measures taken) Q1 Health and Well- A more proactive approach being to community consultation in defining specifications and in seeking feedback on Page 113 Page the services provided in order to better reflect the community in our procurement decisions. Q2 Access Improved access to contract There is a potential negative opportunities will be granted impact in that procurement to suppliers through a more documentation will continue to consistent approach to only be available in English. tendering, the use of the e- However, any inconvenience tendering portal, “The this may cause will be mitigated Chest”, and by publishing through ongoing support contract opportunities on offered to all suppliers. the national “Contracts Finder” web-site. Council procurement processes will be communicated via the Council’s web-site and ongoing support offered through publications and consultation with business V1 1 support organisations. Information will also be made available via the use of the Council’s Twitter Feed and via e-mails sent to local suppliers on the Supplier Database. Q3 Biodiversity Addressing environmental factors in procurement will assist in maintaining the quality of the local landscape Q4 Built environment Addressing environmental considerations through

Page 114 Page smart procurement of works contracts will have a positive impact on the quality of the built environment. Q5 Air, water, land Integration of and soil quality environmental considerations into the procurement process will have a positive impact on the use of natural resources. An Environmental Purchasing Guide provides guidance to tackle specific issues. Q6 Greenhouse gas Actions to reduce carbon emissions, emissions will be energy efficiency, incorporated into the renewable energy procurement process with and adapting to transport and delivery future climate distance becoming an change impacts important factor for V1 2 consideration in relevant procurement exercises Q7 Natural resources Waste and recycling will be considered in relevant procurement processes with a committed approach to the adoption of lifecycle/whole-life costing Q8 Local economy Development of the local economy is a key objective with Community Benefits included in all significant and relevant procurements. The Council will use its buying power to stimulate growth by encouraging

Page 115 Page apprenticeships, training and employment through its procurement. Access to business opportunities will be widened in support of all local organisations with an ongoing supplier engagement programme adopted. The Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy is based on the ethos that in supporting local suppliers we must give them the tools to compete effectively.

V1 3 Q9 Skills, education Training and and training apprenticeships will be encouraged through relevant procurements. A priority in the Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy is also internal development based around training and supporting officers to empower them in their procurement responsibilities. Overall Impact Positive Page 116 Page

V1 4 Appendix 3

EIA Title: Procurement at South Lakeland District Council

1.0 The public sector equality duty (2011) covers the following eight protected characteristics:

1.1 SLDC includes “rurality” as an additional category in its equality impact assessments.

1 Page 117 Step 1

Summarise the subject and expected outcomes of this EIA. This EIA is to assess the impact of the procurement function and, in particular, the Sustainable Procurement and Commissioning Strategy 2016-2019. It hopes to ensure that the approach detailed in the Strategy takes into full account issues around equalities and that the action plan is well-rounded in addressing these.

The purpose of the strategy is to set out a corporate framework for how the Council will conduct its procurement of goods, works and service based around the following priorities: - Making Savings - Supporting Local Economies - Leadership - Modernising Procurement

Who are your main stakeholders and list any engagement undertaken (include surveys, feedback forms, complaints, statistics etc). The Procurement Strategy will impact on Council Members and officers, current and potential suppliers, partners, stakeholders and the community as a whole.

We have consulted internally with our Portfolio Holder, Financial Services, and Legal Services to ensure we are in compliance with legislation.

Step 2

Equality Action Plan

In providing this service will Mitigating actions (to Lead Officer & Complete there be any negative avoid negative impact): When Y/N impacts on the following people? 1. Age (young and old) 2. Black and Minority Ethnic 3. Disabled 4. Faith/Belief 5. Sexual Orientation 6. Gender 7. Gender reassignment 8. Pregnancy and maternity 9. Marriage and Civil Partnership 10. People in rural areas

(See glossary below for

2 Page 118 definitions)

Actions are in place to support Pre-market engagement to Procurement Y a positive impact and avoid identify the needs of the and Contracts any indirect negative impact. community and users through Manager – increased consultation and Ongoing encapsulate into specifications.

Develop strategies for Procurement Y organising procurement into and Contracts lots that do not create Manager - unwanted barriers for smaller Ongoing businesses.

Identify the needs of the Procurement Y community and include in and Contracts tender evaluation criteria. Manager – Ongoing Reflect sustainability and Procurement Y equalities considerations in and Contracts contract monitoring Manager – arrangements. Ongoing

Seek feedback on an annual Procurement Y basis from customers over and Contracts services available. Manager – Ongoing Hold supplier briefings for a Procurement N diverse range of suppliers to and Contracts provide them with the tools to Manager – compete effectively. 2016/17

Step 3

Examples of good equality practice you have put in place (For example, all venues used are accessible for people with mobility, hearing and sight impairments) - Ongoing and flexible support to suppliers in preparing tenders to assist with any obstacles and ensure a ‘level playing field’ - Ongoing monitoring of the size, type and locality of suppliers winning contracts and participating in procurement exercises - A standard approach to feedback adopted to ensure all suppliers are privy to the same level of information - Utilising the North West e-tendering portal, The Chest to ensure a consistent, accessible and non-discriminatory approach to procurement. - Revising our procurement documents to allow for greater understanding of our requirements across our diverse supplier base and lead to a less resource intensive process in preparing a submission. - A Quick Payment Scheme has been adopted which supports Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in particular so that financial concerns won’t deter them from tendering against larger firms.

3 Page 119 - A robust approach to equalities to be included in the contract monitoring procedure to ensure the council’s good practice filters through and requirements are maintained. - Our Guidance and Strategy documents will be made available in various formats to address visual impairments and language barriers. - Work with various business organisations to ensure the details of our procurement processes and any message of change is far-reaching

The Council has an agreement in place to consult with: Cumbria Disability Network, OutREACH Cumbria, AWAZ (Black and Minority Ethnic organisation), Age UK and ACT (Action with Communities in Cumbria). To consult, contact the Policy Officer for equalities.

Date: 10th March 2016 EIA Author(s): Karen Crump Assistant Director: Shelagh McGregor Document version number: 1.0 Date for Review: March 2017 EIA forwarded to Policy Officer Yes

Glossary Age: This refers to a person having a particular age (for example, 32 year-olds) or being within an age group (for example, 18-30 year-olds).

Civil partnership: Legal recognition of a same-sex couple’s relationship. Civil partners must be treated the same as married couples on a range of legal matters.

Rurality: South Lakeland is defined as ‘Rural-80’ – this means we have at least 80 percent of our population in rural settlements and larger market towns.

Sexual orientation: This is whether a person's sexual attraction is towards their own sex, the opposite sex or to both sexes.

4 Page 120 Item No.8

South Lakeland District Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee 22 March 2016 Cabinet 23 March 2016 Council 31 March 2016 Procurement Schedule PORTFOLIO: Councillor Jonathan Brook – Innovation and Improvement Portfolio Holder REPORT FROM: Shelagh McGregor - Assistant Director (Resources) and Chief Finance (Section 151) Officer REPORT AUTHOR: Karen Crump – Procurement and Contracts Manager WARDS: All Wards KEY DECISION NO: In the forward plan covering period 1 March to 31 May 2016

1 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 The expected outcome is that Council will approve the Procurement Schedule.

2 RECOMMENDATION

(1) Cabinet / Overview and Scrutiny Committee consider the Procurement Schedule attached at Appendix 1.

(2) Council approve the Procurement Schedule attached at Appendix 1.

3 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS

3.1 The Audit Committee Work Programme for 2015/16 included an annual review of the Council’s Constitution. This review concentrated on the areas of the constitution with a direct impact on the financial controls of the Council contained within the Financial Procedure Rules and the Contract Procedure Rules. As a result of this review, some changes were agreed to streamline the acceptance of tenders 2015. 3.2 The key change was to introduce a Procurement Schedule, to be approved by Council at least annually. Approval of the Procurement Schedule gives authority to officers to conduct and conclude the contracting processes in line with the schedule without the need for further approval (unless where the Procurement Schedule had indicated it would be sought though Cabinet or DED approval). Where a procurement process is over budget then approval will still be required as under the current Constitutional arrangements.

3.3 Where an officer seeks approval for a waiver or exemption under the Contract Procedure Rules this would also be included in the Procurement Schedule. The recommended changes will only effect the non-contentious contracts where the decision to award to the most economically advantageous tender is straight-

Page 121 forward. Full details were published on the agenda of Audit Committee on 3 December. 3.4 The Procurement Schedule is attached at Appendix 1.

4.0 CONSULTATION 4.1 As noted above, Audit Committee and Council have been already approved the principal of using a Procurement Schedule to pre-approve tender acceptance. O&S and Cabinet have considered the Procurement Schedule prior to presentation to Council for approval.

5 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 Council could decide not to approve all or part of the Procurement Schedule. This would mean that separate acceptance reports may be required for all or specific tenders.

6 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 Efficient and effective procurement supports all the Council’s priorities.

7 IMPLICATIONS

7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 There are no direct financial implications of the report.

7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 There are no direct HR implications of the report

7.3 Legal 7.3.1 This report has no direct legal implications at this stage but individual proposals resulting from this report may have direct legal implications.

7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 There are no specific sustainability issues arising from the report.

7.5 Equality and Diversity 7.5.1 There are no specific equality and diversity issues arising from the report.

7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required Failure to accept Potential need to re- Robust Procurement processes including tenders within tender and/or loss of efficient mechanisms for accepting tenders. time limits most economically favourable tenders.

CONTACT OFFICERS Karen Crump, Procurement and Contracts Manager, [email protected], ext 3145 Helen Smith, Financial Services Manager, [email protected], ext 3147

Page 122 APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT Appendix No. 1 Procurement Schedule 2016/17

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background document Where it is available Review of Constitution Council 17 December http://tinyurl.com/ndot7zj 2015

TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee Report of AD 10.03.2016 10.03.2016 03.03.2016 22.03.2016 (Resources) Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer 23.03.2016 n/a 29.03.2016 Report of S151 03.03.2016 Officer Human Resource Services Leader Ward Manager Councillor(s) n/a n/a n/a

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Page 124 Appendix 1 The purpose of this appendix is to set out the Procurement Schedule for 2016/17

Service/Officer EXTENSION (if PROCUREMENT TITLE START DATE END DATE Responsible DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT applicable) EST.VALUE £ PROCESS DECISION ROUTE CONTRACT TYPE STATUS Delegated Executive 2 x Romaquip 12T Compact 01/04/2016 31/03/2017 Sierpinski, George Purchase of SLDC vehicle N/A >OJEU Framework Decision One-off Not Started Extension Analysis of Private Water Analysis of the Private Water Delegated Executive Approval Supply 03/11/2014 02/11/2017 Hall, Sean supplies within the area 1 Year 10-100K Quotes Decision Contract Renewal Required

Provision of Bailiff & Debt Collection Services for Council Extension Bailiff and Debt Collection Tax, Housing Benefit & Sundry Approval Services 03/06/2013 02/06/2016 Fisher, Michael Debts 2 Years 100K-OJEU Tender Cabinet Contract Renewal Required Extension Banking Services 03/01/2015 02/01/2019 Read, Claire Provision of Banking Services 1 Year 100K-OJEU Framework Cabinet Contract Renewal Approval

Purchase of refuse bins & boxes Bins & Boxes 01/04/2016 31/03/2017 Vickers, Andrew for SLDC residents N/A 10-100K Framework Administration One-off Not Started

Braithwaite Fold Caravan Extension Site Management Management of Braithwaite Fold Approval Page 125 Page Agreement 01/01/2012 31/12/2016 Maguire, Jim Caravan Site on behalf of SLDC 5 Years 100K-OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

Business Support To provide business support to Programme 01/04/2016 30/06/2017 Robinson, Jacki local new & growing businesses N/A 10-100K Framework Administration One-off Not Started

Licence agreement for advertising Car Park Advertising 01/04/2016 31/03/2019 Flannigan, Frankie at Westmorland Car Park, Kendal N/A 10-100K Waiver Administration Contract Renewal In Progress

Committee Management Provision of the Committee Delegated Executive Information System 20/05/2011 19/05/2016 Booth, Inge Management Information System N/A 10-100K Exemption Decision Contract Renewal Not Started

Provision of Digital Services and a new development control, Building Control and Land Charges Digital Innovation Project 01/05/2016 30/04/2023 McVey, Simon System. 5 Years >OJEU OJEU Cabinet New Contract In Progress

To carry out adaptions to disabled peoples accomodation under the Disabled Facilities Grants 01/04/2017 01/04/2020 Whittaker, Tony grant scheme N/A 100K-OJEU Tender Cabinet New Contract Not Started

Electronic payments for Council Tax, Sundry Debtors and Housing Electronic Payments 01/05/2016 30/04/2018 Fisher, Michael Benefit Overpayments 2 Years 10-100K Framework Administration Contract Renewal In Progress Service/Officer EXTENSION (if PROCUREMENT TITLE START DATE END DATE Responsible DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT applicable) EST.VALUE £ PROCESS DECISION ROUTE CONTRACT TYPE STATUS

Extension Provision to carry out the external Delegated Executive Approval External Audit 31/08/2015 30/09/2017 Smith, Helen audit function for SLDC 3 Years 10-100K Tender Decision Contract Renewal Required

Provision of fuel cards for SLDC vehicles Fuel Cards 01/04/2016 31/03/2019 Pearson, Nick N/A 100K-OJEU Framework Cabinet Contract Renewal Not Started Extension Installation of a replacement Approval Gazetteer 01/10/2016 30/09/2019 Wright, Ben gazetteer 2 Years 10-100K Quotes Administration New Contract Required

To produce an independant business case to consider the future use of the derelict site, which will enable it to be sustainable & economically viable Grange Lido Renaissance 01/04/2016 31/03/2017 Leahy, Ruth community asset. N/A 10-100K Framework Administration One-off Not Started Page 126 Page Extension Maintenance of the Grounds & Approval Grounds Maintenance 01/04/2010 31/03/2017 Wright, Deborah open space with in the SLDC area 7 Years >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

To carry out the handyperson Handyperson Scheme 01/04/2017 31/03/2020 Whittaker, Tony scheme for vulnerable people. N/A 10-100K Tender Cabinet Contract Renewal Not Started Extension Provision of Insurance cover for Approval Insurance Services 01/05/2014 31/03/2017 Read, Claire SLDC 2 Years >OJEU Framework Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

Purchase of a new Lake Wardens Lake Wardens Patrol Boat 01/04/2016 31/03/2017 Maguire, Jim Patrol Boat N/A 100K-OJEU Exemption Cabinet One-off In Progress

Partner to carry out the Extension management of the leisure Approval Leisure Partnership 01/04/2014 31/03/2024 Sykes, David facilities on behalf of SLDC 5 Years x 2 >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

Merchant Acquisition To receive payments by credit & Services 02/01/2017 02/01/2019 Fisher, Michael debit cards 1 Year 100K-OJEU Framework Administration Contract Renewal Not Started

One off purchase of Microsoft service hub for SLDC & Eden Microsoft Service Hub 01/02/2016 31/03/2016 Henderson, Stuart N/A 10-100K Quotes Administration One-off Not Started

Milnthorpe Economic Consultant for the Milnthorpe Study 01/05/2016 30/11/2016 Candlin, Gareth Economic Study N/A 10-100K Framework Administration One-off Not Started Extension Mobile Phones & Mobile Providing Mobile phones & Approval Working 19/05/2014 18/05/2016 McVey, Simon mobile working for SLDC 1 Year 10-100K Framework Administration Contract Renewal Required Service/Officer EXTENSION (if PROCUREMENT TITLE START DATE END DATE Responsible DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT applicable) EST.VALUE £ PROCESS DECISION ROUTE CONTRACT TYPE STATUS Extension Provision of Occupational Health Approval Occupational Health 01/10/2016 30/09/2018 Reay, Andrew Services 2 Years 10-100K Framework Administration New Contract Required

Continuation of specialist marketing, promotion and search PR & Marketing for Invest engine optimisation of the Invest in South Lakeland and in South Lakeland & Explore Explore South Lakeland 01/06/2016 31/05/2018 Williams, Matt South Lakeland Programmes 1 Year 10-100K Framework Administration Contract Renewal Not Started

Government procurement cards Procurement Cards 01/06/2016 02/01/2019 Smith, Helen for use by SLDC staff 1 Year <10K Framework Administration Contract Renewal Not Started

Provisions of core services including repairs & maintenance Property Services 01/10/2016 30/09/2021 Brown, Ian of the Council's estate. 5 Years >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal In Progress

Provision & Maintenance of the Extension Provision and maintenance Multifunctional devices Approval Page 127 Page of Multifunctional Devices 04/07/2014 03/07/2017 Warner, Sue throughout SLDC 2 Years 100K-OJEU Framework Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

Managing the SLDC recycling bring Recycling Bring Sites 01/10/2017 30/09/2020 Pearson, Nick sites 1 Year >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal Not Started Extension Revenues & Benefits Provision of software for Approval Software 01/10/2010 30/09/2017 Fisher, Michael Revenues & Benefits 7 Years >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Renewal Required

Redesign and build of Rinkfield Rinkfield Childrens Childrens Playground Playground 13/06/2016 15/07/2016 Wright, Deborah N/A 10-100K Framework Cabinet One-off Not Started

Rothay Park Childrens Redesign and build of Rothay Park Playground 30/06/2016 31/07/2016 Wright, Deborah Childrens Playground N/A 100K-OJEU Framework Cabinet One-off Not Started

RRV 01/04/2016 31/03/2017 Sierpinski, George Purchase of SLDC vehicles N/A 10-100K Framework Administration One-off Not Started

Provision to undertake a schedule of rates maintenance contract covering multiple trades across the South Lakeland District Schedule of Rates 01/10/2016 30/09/2019 Brown, Ian Council property portfolio. 2 Years 100K-OJEU Tender Cabinet Contract Renewal Not Started

Security Services for Town Static security for Town View Delegated Executive View Fields 01/06/2016 31/05/2017 Davis, Alan Fields Homeless Hostel 1 Year x 2 100K-OJEU Tender Decision Contract Renewal Not Started Service/Officer EXTENSION (if PROCUREMENT TITLE START DATE END DATE Responsible DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT applicable) EST.VALUE £ PROCESS DECISION ROUTE CONTRACT TYPE STATUS

Looking for ways to improve the Sedbergh Economic economic performance in Scoping Study 15/04/2016 31/07/2016 Golton, Joanne Sedbergh N/A <10K Framework Administration One-off Not Started

Continuation & extension of the South Lakeland Wi-Fi South Lakeland town centre Wi-Fi Concession Scheme 31/07/2016 30/07/2026 Williams, Matt scheme 5 Years >OJEU OJEU Cabinet Contract Not Started

Provision of Temporary & Agency Temporary & Agency Staff 01/10/2016 30/09/2019 Reay, Andrew Staff N/A 100K-OJEU Framework Cabinet New Contract Not Started

A framework agreement for the supply of tyres for Council Delegated Executive Tyres 01/04/2016 31/03/2019 Sierpinski, George vehicles N/A 10-100K Quotes Decision Contract Renewal In Progress

Provision of the weed control programme within the South Delegated Executive Weed Control Programme 01/03/2013 30/09/2016 Pearson, Nick Lakeland area. N/A 10-100K Tender Decision Contract Renewal Not Started Page 128 Page Item No.9

South Lakeland District Council Council Thursday, 31 March 2016 ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE CALL-IN AND URGENCY PROVISIONS

CHAIRMAN: Councillor Colin Jones, Chairman, Overview and Scrutiny Committee REPORT FROM: Debbie Storr, Director of Policy and Resources (Monitoring Officer) REPORT AUTHOR: Sandip Mahajan, Scrutiny Officer WARDS: Not applicable KEY DECISION NO: Not applicable

1.0 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 This report provides information to allow the operation of the Constitution call- in and urgency procedures, for the 2015-16 Council year, to be reviewed.

2.0 RECOMMENDATION

2.1 Council is requested to note this report.

3.0 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS 3.1 Paragraph 16 (j) (ii) of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules (page 131 of the Constitution, dated January 2016).states that: ‘The operation of the provisions relating to call-in and urgency shall be monitored annually, and a report submitted to Council with proposals for review if necessary.’

3.2 Section 100B of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) requires 5 clear working days public notice of the items of business (‘agenda’) which are to be considered at any formal Council meetings including committees and sub-committees.

3.3 The Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 requires 28 days public notice to be given of the intention of the ‘Executive’ to consider a key decision or to hold a meeting (or part of a meeting) in private. Executive decisions may be made by the Cabinet, individual Cabinet Members (Portfolio Holders) or officers who have delegated authority to make decisions.

Page 129 3.4 The 2012 legislation outlines what actions the Council must take if it cannot meet the above notice requirements. The various legal requirements are contained within the Council’s Constitution. This report covers the urgency and call in procedures.

3.5 The ‘call-in’ process may be used to challenge Executive decisions. Call-ins are only to be used on an exceptional basis in line with paragraph 16 (a-i) of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules. Paragraph 7 of the Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules (page 121 of the Constitution) also refers to call-ins relating to decisions that may be outside the budget or policy framework. During 2015-16, no Executive decisions have been called-in.

3.6 The urgency procedure, which allows items to be considered at short notice, is also only used on an exceptional basis in line with paragraph 16 (j) of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules. If the decision is an urgent one then it is not subject to call-in.

3.7 An item for decision is only considered urgent, without recourse to the call-in process, if any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or public interest.

3.8 Paragraph 16 (j) of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules states that: ‘The record of the decision and notice by which it is made public shall state whether, in the opinion of the decision-making person or body, the decision is an urgent one, and therefore not subject to call-in. The Chairman of the Council must agree both that the decision proposed is reasonable in all the circumstances and to it being treated as a matter of urgency….Decisions taken as a matter of urgency must be reported to the next available meeting of the Council, together with the reasons for urgency.’

3.9 The urgency procedure has been used once in the last twelve months for the following decision: (1) Flood Response Scheme, details of which were reported to Council on 24 February 2016, and was required to allow a flood grants scheme, administration process and appropriate budgets to be established, in order to provide immediate hardship relief to people affected by recent floods and longer-term property flood resilience support.

3.10 This urgent decision was taken within the context that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s or public interest.

3.11 Council is asked to note this Annual Review, which concerns paragraph 3.5 and 3.6 of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules and also note that no changes are proposed for the call-in, or urgency provisions.

Page 130 4.0 CONSULTATION 4.1 Consultees are listed in the tracking information at the end of this report. The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee was consulted. No other consultation was required as this report is for information only.

5.0 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 This report is for information and noting, so no alternative options are suggested.

6.0 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 There are no direct links but this report promotes the Council’s approach to openness and transparency.

7.0 IMPLICATIONS

7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 There are no financial or resource implications associated with this report.

7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 There are no human resources implications associated with this report.

7.3 Legal 7.3.1 There are no legal implications associated with this report other than the requirements detailed in the report.

7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 This report is for information only so there are no social, economic or environmental issues.

7.5 Equality and Diversity 7.5.1 This report is for information only so there are no equality or diversity issues.

7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required That the annual review The call-in and urgency That the annual review does not take place or is provisions are not used takes place and findings not considered. properly with possible considered with use of legal challenges. the provisions monitored and reviewed appropriately.

CONTACT OFFICERS Report Author - Sandip Mahajan, Scrutiny Officer, 01539 793188 [email protected]

Page 131

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background document Where it is available Flood Response Scheme, Delegated Executive http://tinyurl.com/zrbjfh2 Decisions, 16 December 2015.

TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee 08.03.16 n/a 8.03.16 17.03.16 n/a Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer n/a n/a 31.03.16 08.03.16 08.03.16 Human Leader Ward Resource Councillor(s) Services Manager 08.03.16 n/a n/a

Page 132 Item No.10

South Lakeland District Council Council 31 March 2016 ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE CONSTITUTION

PORTFOLIO: Councillor Sue Sanderson - Environment and People Portfolio Holder

REPORT FROM: Debbie Storr – Director of Policy and Resources (Monitoring Officer)

REPORT AUTHOR: Matthew Neal – Solicitor to the Council

WARDS: Not applicable

KEY DECISION: Not applicable

1.0 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 This report is presented to enable Council to consider suggested changes to the Constitution as part of the annual review process. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Council approves the recommendations from the Constitution Working Group as detailed at Appendix 1 to this report.

3.0 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS 3.1 One of the duties of the Monitoring Officer is to monitor and review, on an annual basis, the operation of the Constitution to ensure that its aims and principles are given full effect. 3.2 In undertaking the review, the Monitoring Officer has sought views of Members, Officers, parish councils and also the public, through the Council’s website, on any issues which they wished to raise with regard to the Constitution. 3.3 The Constitution Review Working Group is made up of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Council, Environment and People Portfolio Holder and Shadow Portfolio Holder, and the Labour Group Leader. The Group met on 23 February 2016 to consider comments received and suggestions put forward as part of this process. The Group’s recommendations are attached at Appendix 1. 3.3 The Constitution will be amended to take account of any changes approved by Council and all Members will receive a web link to the revised Constitution at the start of the new municipal year.

Page 133

3.4 In addition to this report, work is ongoing in the below areas, which will be the subject of future reports to Council:–  A Planning Code of Practice will be considered by the Planning and Standards Committees, prior to being put forward to a future Council meeting for adoption.  Changes to the Planning Public Participation Scheme arising from the recommendations of the Planning Peer Review. The Scheme will be considered by the Planning Committee at its meeting of 24 March 2016.  The addition of a Licensing Code of Practice. 3.5 At its meeting of 25 February 2016, the Planning Committee considered proposed changes to its size following the Planning Peer Review. The Committee was of the opinion that the current size of 18 Members was appropriate and that no change to the committee size was required. 4.0 CONSULTATION 4.1 As stated in paragraph 3.2, Members, officers, parish councils and the public have been consulted as part of the review. 5.0 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 The alternative option is not to approve the changes as proposed, or make amendments to the proposals. 6.0 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 The Constitution underpins the Council’s decision-making processes in achieving the aims and objectives of the Council’s Priorities. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 There are no financial implications arising from this report. 7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 There are no Human Resources implications arising from this report. 7.3 Legal 7.3.1 There are no legal implications arising from this report. 7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 These revisions to the Constitution have no social, economic or environmental impacts. 7.5 Equality and Diversity 7.5.1 These revisions to the Constitution raise no equality or diversity issues.

Page 134

7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required That the Constitution is not fit Challenge to decision Regular review and for purpose making processes updating to reflect aims and principles and ensure that it meets any legislative requirements.

CONTACT OFFICERS Report Author – Matthew Neal, Solicitor to the Council, [email protected]

APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT Appendix No. 1 Recommendations from the Constitution Working Group

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background Where it is available document Constitution http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/council- business/councillors-and-decisions/council- constitution/

TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee N/A Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer N/A N/A Human Leader Ward Resource Councillor(s) Services Manager N/A N/A

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Page 136 APPENDIX 1

LIST OF RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE CONSTITUTION WORKING GROUP Suggestion Recommendation from Constitution Working Group Right to Reply to an Amended Budget (Appendix 1a) A Member suggestion to amend the Recommended Constitution in order that a person seeking to propose an amended budget has the right to reply to such amended budget following the debate thereon. Clarification of functions of the Licensing Regulatory Committee (Appendix 1b) To consider a change to the wording of the Recommended. functions of the Licensing Regulatory Committee to reflect delegations in relation The Group also recommended that the name of the Licensing Regulatory Committee to the power to close food businesses. be amended to reflect the delegated function relating to the Health and Safety at Work

Page 137 Page etc. Act 1974. Amendment to the number of Members sitting on the Human Resources Sub-Committee A Member suggestion to reduce the number Not recommended. of Members required for a Human Resources Sub-Committee acting as an However, the Group requested that a note be added to reflect a quorum of three employment or disciplinary panel from five Members applied. to three. Emergency Motions (Appendix 1c) A Member suggestion to allow emergency Recommended. motions to be presented to Council in situations which could not be foreseen, The Group suggested that prior agreement be made with the leaders of each Political subject to prior agreement. Party and with the Chairman of the Council and Monitoring Officer. Performance Sub-Committee appointment not to be subject to political balance rules To consider allowing the Overview and Not recommended. Scrutiny Committee to appoint Members of the Performance Sub-Committee on a non- political balance if necessary. Delegated authority to Overview and Scrutiny Committee to appoint Working Groups to report recommendations directly to Suggestion Recommendation from Constitution Working Group Cabinet To consider giving delegated authority to Not recommended. Overview and Scrutiny Committee to appoint Working Groups who can report directly to Cabinet with recommendations. Amendments to public participation scheme for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee To consider amendments to public The Group recommended that a trial of the proposed amendments be run at the participation at Overview and Scrutiny discretion of the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Any amendments Committee in order that the public can to the public participation scheme following the trial would need to be considered by speak after the item has been presented by Council at a future date. the Portfolio Holder or officer. It was also

Page 138 Page suggested that the restriction that the public may only ask questions be lifted so that they can speak on the item if they wish. Amendments to public participation scheme for the Planning Committee To consider amendments to the public Recommended, subject to consideration of the draft wording by the Planning participation scheme for Planning Committee. Committee to take on board suggestions from the Planning Peer Review. This would require subsequent approval from Council via Planning Committee.

APPENDIX 1a

(e) After an amendment has been carried, the Chairman will read out the amended motion before accepting any further amendments, or if there are none, put it to the vote.

13.7* Alteration of motion

(a) A Member may alter a motion of which he/ she has given notice with the consent of the meeting. The meeting's consent will be signified without discussion.

(b) A Member may alter a motion which he/ she has moved without notice with the consent of both the meeting and the seconder. The meeting's consent will be signified without discussion.

13.8* Withdrawal of motion

A Member may withdraw a motion which he/ she has moved with the consent of both the meeting and the seconder. The meeting's consent will be signified without discussion. No Member may speak on the motion after the mover has asked permission to withdraw it unless permission is refused.

13.9* Right of reply

(a) The mover of a motion has a right to reply at the end of the debate on the motion, immediately before it is put to the vote.

(b) If an amendment is moved, the mover of the original motion has the right of reply at the close of the debate on the amendment, but may not otherwise speak on it.

(c) The mover of the amendment has no right of reply to the debate on his or her amendment, except in the case of an amendment to the budget report made at the budget Council meeting.

13.10* Motions which may be moved during debate

When a motion is under debate, no other motion may be moved except the following procedural motions:

(a) to withdraw a motion;

(b) to amend a motion;

(d) that the question be now put;

(e) to adjourn a debate;

(f) to adjourn a meeting;

(g) to exclude the public and press in accordance with the Access to Information Rules; and

(h) to not hear further a Member named under Rule 20.3 or to exclude them from the meeting under Rule 20.4.

13.11* Closure motions

(a) A Member may move, without comment, the following motions at the end of a speech of another member:

(i) to proceed to the next business;

(ii) that the question be now put;

(iii) to adjourn a debate; or

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Page 140 APPENDIX 1b

Suggested Wording for separating Licensing/Licensing Regulatory functions at pages 65 and 66

D. Delegation from the Licensing Committee

1. To the Director of People and Places 1.1 In respect of all the functions listed in Parts B and C of Schedule 1 of the Functions Regulations: -

• to determine all applications for authorisation, registration, licensing, the granting of permits and any other approval except the determination of applications where objections have been received; • to exercise the authorisation or appointment of officers to undertake specific powers in respect of any of the functions listed;

• to exercise relevant enforcement powers; and

• to enter on land and premises, for all statutory purposes in connection with their administration and enforcement.

1.2 To serve Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, to close a food business.

1.3 To suspend Drivers’ and Operators’ Licences [with immediate effect, as appropriate. Where in interests of public safety to do so] under Sections 61 and 62 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

1.4 To suspend Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Licences under Sections 60 and 68 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

1.25 To determine All other applications for a personal licence, premises licence or club premises certificate or variation or transfer of such a licence.

1.36 To determine all All requests to be removed as a designated premises supervisor.

1.7 To determine all applications under the Gambling Act 2005 in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

1.48 To determine whether a complaint is irrelevant, frivolous, vexatious, etc.

1.59 To appoint authorised persons for the purposes of the Licensing Act 2003.

E. Delegation from the Licensing Regulatory Committee

1. To the Director of People and Places 1.1 In respect of all the functions listed in Parts B and C of Schedule 1 of the Functions Regulations: -

• to exercise relevant enforcement powers; and

Page 141 • to enter on land and premises, for all statutory purposes in connection with their administration and enforcement.

1.2 To determine whether a complaint is irrelevant, frivolous, vexatious, etc.

1.3 To serve Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notices, to close food businesses.

1.4 To suspend Drivers’ and Operators’ Licences [with immediate effect, as appropriate where in interests of public safety to do so] under Sections 61 and 62 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

1.5 To suspend Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Licences under Sections 60 and 68 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

1.6 To determine all applications under the Gambling Act 2005 in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

1.7 To deal with all functions relating to health and safety under any relevant statutory provision within the meaning of Part 1 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, to the extent that those functions are discharged otherwise than in the Council’s capacity as employer.

2 To the Director of People and Places and the Public Health and Licensing Manager

2.1 To act as authorised persons for the purposes of Section 304 and Part 15 of the Gambling Act 2005.

2.2 To review existing permits under Section 34 of the Gaming Act 1968 and to grant new applications for permits up to two machines per premises. 2.3 To review existing permits under Section 16 of the Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976.

2.4 To determine applications for permits for three or four gaming machine permits in premises licensed under the Licensing Act 2003.

2.5 To determine applications for advertising on Hackney Carriage Vehicles in accordance with approved conditions.

Pages 66 to 67 will need to be re-numbered/lettered accordingly.

Page 142 Appendix 1c

12.* MOTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

The following motions may be moved without notice:

(a) to appoint a Chairman of the meeting at which the motion is moved;

(b) in relation to the accuracy of the minutes;

(d) to refer something to an appropriate body or individual;

(e) to appoint a committee or Member arising from an item on the summons for the meeting;

(f) to receive reports or adopt recommendations of committees or officers and any resolutions following from them;

(g) to withdraw a motion;

(h) to amend a motion;

(i) to proceed to the next business;

(j) that the question be now put;

(k) to adjourn a debate;

(l) to adjourn a meeting;

(m) to suspend a particular Council procedure rule;

(n) to exclude the public and press in accordance with the Access to Information Rules;

(o) to not hear further a Member named under Rule 20.3 or to exclude them from the meeting under Rule 20.4; and

(p) to give the consent of the Council where its consent is required by this Constitution; and.

(q) an emergency motion, the need for which could not have been foreseen, subject to the agreement of the Political Group Leaders, Chairman of the Council and Monitoring Officer.

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Page 144 Item No.11

South Lakeland District Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee Tuesday 22 March 2016 Cabinet Wednesday 23 March 2016 Council Thursday 31 March 2016 SOUTH LAKELAND DISTRICT COUNCIL - EQUALITY SCHEME 2016 - 19

PORTFOLIO: Graham Vincent - Portfolio Holder for Health and Well-Being

REPORT FROM: Simon McVey - Assistant Director for Policy and Performance

REPORT AUTHOR: Ellie Taylor - Partnerships and Funding Officer

WARDS: All

KEY DECISION: In Forward Plan covering the period 1 January to 31 March 2016 (decision to be taken by Council on 31 March 2016).

1.0 EXPECTED OUTCOME 1.1 The expected outcome is that the draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19 will be recommended for adoption by Council on 31 March 2016.

Page 145 2.0 RECOMMENDATION 2.1 It is recommended that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee consider the draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19 for commenting upon and making any recommendation to Council. 2.2 Subject to consideration of any comments from Overview and Scrutiny Committee, it is recommended that Cabinet recommend adoption to Council of the draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19 2.3 Subject to consideration of any comments from Overview and Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet, Council is recommended to adopt the draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19 3.0 BACKGROUND AND PROPOSALS 3.1 The draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19 (enclosed as Appendix 1 to this report) sets out how South Lakeland District Council (“the Council”) is meeting the requirements of the public sector equality duty, including setting out some specific objectives. The draft Equality Scheme also contains useful statistics about our communities to help the Council understand more about the different needs of its residents. 3.2 The Council first adopted an Equality Scheme in 2006. Since then there have been various revisions to ensure the scheme meets current legislation. 3.3 The Council last updated its Equality Scheme and published objectives in 2013. The Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties) Regulations 2011, provides that public bodies must publish equality objectives at least every four years. The period 2016-19 also brings the Equality Scheme in line with the updated Council Plan. 4.0 CONSULTATION 4.1 An earlier draft Equality Scheme has been taken to the South Lakeland Equality and Diversity Partnership which is composed of interested representatives from the private, public and voluntary sectors. The Partnership was generally supportive of the scheme, however there was a comment about the objectives being too specific. The current version has taken account of the partnership’s comments. 4.2 Discussions also took place with the Equality Works Group (training consultancy) following attendance at a training course in March 2015. 4.3 The Portfolio Holder for Health and Well-Being has been consulted on the proposed Equality Scheme and his comments have been taken into account within the draft. 4.4 Any comments from Overview and Scrutiny Committee will be reported to the Cabinet meeting of 23 March 2016. Any comments from Overview and Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet will be reported to the Council meeting of 31 March 2016. 5.0 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS 5.1 No credible options. The consequences of not approving the update will increase the risk of challenge.

Page 146 5.2 Members could suggest amendments to the document 6.0 LINKS TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES 6.1 This policy update is a key organisational control that supports good performance with the Council Plan. 6.2 The draft Equality Scheme 2016-19 links to the health and well-being section of the Council Plan. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Financial and Resources 7.1.1 No financial implications are associated with the proposals set out in this report. 7.2 Human Resources 7.2.1 Employee equality statistics are published on the website as part of the public sector equality duty. A link to the statistics is provided in the draft Equality Scheme 2016-19. 7.3 Legal 7.3.1 By producing and publishing an Equality Scheme with objectives, the Council will be complying with the general equality duty and the public sector equality duty as set out in the Equality Act 2010. 7.4 Social, Economic and Environmental 7.4.1 The Equality Scheme is considered to have a positive social and economic impact and a neutral environmental impact. 7.5 Equality and Diversity. 7.5.1 By its very nature the document is drafted with a view to having a positive impact on equality and diversity. 7.6 Risk Risk Consequence Controls required Not to recommend Risk of external legal Equality Scheme is adoption of the revised challenge, not meeting a implemented, managed Equality Scheme. statutory requirement and monitored. and potential impact on the Council’s reputation.

CONTACT OFFICERS Report Author – Ellie Taylor, Partnerships and Funding Officer, 01539 79326, [email protected]

APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT Appendix No. 1 Draft South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19

Page 147 Appendix No. 2 Social, environmental and economic analysis

BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE Name of Background Where it is available document Equality Scheme 2013-15 http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/EasySiteWeb/Gate wayLink.aspx?alId=39724

TRACKING INFORMATION Assistant Portfolio Solicitor to the SMT Scrutiny Director Holder Council Committee 04/03/2016 07/03/2016 04/03/2016 04/03/2016 22/03/2016 Executive Committee Council Section 151 Monitoring (Cabinet) Officer Officer 23/03/2016 31/03/2016 04/03/2016 04/03/2016 Human Leader Ward Use these Use these Resource Councillor(s) boxes for boxes for Services additional additional Manager tracking tracking 04/03/2016

Page 148 Appendix 1

South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-2019

www.southlakeland.gov.ukpage 1 Page 149 South Lakeland District Council Equality Scheme 2016-19

Contents 1.0 Equality objectives 1.0 Equality objectives 1 South Lakeland District Council (“the council”) aims to treat its citizens, customers and 2.0 South Lakeland in figures 2 employees fairly and with respect. To achieve 3.0 Issues facing South Lakeland today 3 this, the council considers people’s different needs when making decisions and providing 4.0 South Lakeland Equality and services. Diversity Partnership 4 The council will: 5.0 Making a difference in South Lakeland: Case studies 5 • Ensure everyone receives a fair service; 6.0 Equality at South Lakeland District • Make public information accessible to all Council 7 our customers; 7.0 Equality analysis and information 7 • Provide an environment that promotes dignity and respect; 8.0 Employee and Member information 8 • Eliminate intimidation, bullying or 9.0 Plans, reports and meetings 8 harassment; 10.0 Comments 8 • Better understand the local community in order to provide improved services; 11.0 Contact details 8 • Provide equality training for its Appendix 1 9 employees and Councillors; and Appendix 2 9 • Promote and make available this policy to all. References 10 The council, in line with the Equality Act (2010), will:

• Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act; • Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not; and • Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

Protected characteristics:

• Age; • Disability; • Gender reassignment; • Marriage and Civil Partnership; • Pregnancy and Maternity; • Race; • Religion and belief; • Sex; and • Sexual orientation. page 1 Page 150 Equality Scheme 2016-19 South Lakeland District Council

The council has also chosen to consider Objective 3 implications for those suffering from socio- economic disadvantage; this can include people • We will review and update the council’s on low incomes, as well as rural and urban planning policies on accessibility in the deprivation. Rurality is a particular consideration light of the Housing Standards Review through the preparation of new as South Lakeland is defined as a ‘Rural 80’ Development Management Policies. In which means we have at least 80% of our doing this, we will advance equality as far population in rural settlement areas and larger as possible whilst remaining consistent market towns. with other council priorities. This Scheme applies to: We will achieve this objective by: • Users of the council’s services and • Engaging with relevant stakeholders and visitors to our premises ensure the policies are fully impact • Councillors analysed. We will publish the Equality Impact Analysis (EIA) on our website. • Employees • Volunteers 2.0 South Lakeland in figures • Contractors, sub-contractors and partners The council provides equality training for Population councillors and employees so they can understand and promote equality in the council’s In mid-2014 South Lakeland’s resident day to day business. population was estimated to be 103,300. In the same year another 16.4 million visitors came to The specific equality objectives that the council South Lakeland, of which 84.3% were day would like to achieve over the life span of this trippers and 15.7% were staying visitors.ii equality scheme are detailed below: Since mid-2004, there have been 3500 more deaths than births in South Lakeland. During the Objective 1 same time, 3,100 more people have migrated • Use the digital transformation programme into South Lakeland (from other parts of the UK 2015 – 19 to ensure all customers can and overseas) than have migrated out from access the council in the best way for South Lakeland. This means the population of them. South Lakeland has decreased by 400 people.iii We will achieve this objective by: Age • Developing equality impact analyses for each of the projects within the In mid-2014 it was estimated that 13.8% of the programme, the analyses will be population of South Lakeland are aged 0-14 published on our website. years of age, 59.4% are 15-64 years of age, and 26.8% are aged 65 or over.iv Objective 2 Children and young people • Use the Kendal Town Centre Masterplan It is projected that the numbers of 0-14 year olds to improve access in Kendal Town Centre. in South Lakeland will increase slightly to 2016, We will achieve this objective by: and then decrease from 2019 onwards to 2037. Between 2012 and 2037, the number of young • Making it a requirement of the people aged 0-14 is forecast to fall by 8.3%.v consultants’ brief and ensure that the consultants engage with the relevant stakeholder groups. Working age By 2037, the number of 15-64 year olds is projected to have decreased by 10,300 persons (-16.5%).vi

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South Lakeland has the lowest proportion of wider with the median gross weekly earnings for young and working age people in the county and men at £451 compared to £279 for females.xviii both are in decline. Since mid-2004 the greatest percentage decrease occurred in the 30-44 age groups (-22.7%).vii 3.0 Issues facing South Lakeland today Older people By 2037 the number of residents aged 65 or over Housing is projected to have increased by 12,500 persons (+47.5%).viii The median house price in South Lakeland is £201,828 (May 2015).xix This is 7.3 times the Since mid-2004 the greatest percentage increase median household income.xx High demand for ix occurred in the 85 or over age group (+36%). housing reduces affordability for residents on average earnings. Housing affordability is an Disability even greater problem in more rural wards where house prices are usually higher. For example, the 19% of the population have a long-term health problem or disability. 8% of residents are limited average house price in the Hawkshead Ward is xxi a lot in their day to day activities and 11% are £366,720. x limited a little in their day to day activities. In South Lakeland there are 42 parishes with an By 2030 the number of people with learning affordability ratio over 20, with the least disabilities is due to rise by 104 while the number affordable housing being in the two parishes of with dementia is due to rise by 769.xi Windermere (28.1) and Lakes (33.6).xxii Of Cumbria’s 166 electoral wards, Windermere Race and Applethwaite had the highest median 95.6% of South Lakeland residents are White affordability ratio in 2015 (13.2), followed by British, 2.8% are White Other, 0.6% are mixed Ambleside and Grasmere (12.8).xxiii race, 0.8% are Asian, 0.2% are Black, and 0.1% xii are from other ethnic groups. Low wage economy Of Cumbria’s six districts, South Lakeland has The median annual household income in South the second highest proportion of residents from Lakeland is £27,495 (May 2015), although 12.1% Black and Ethnic Minority groups (4.4%).xiii of households have an income of less than £10,000.xxiv This is an increase from 2009 when Religion and Belief 7.4% of households had an income of less than 68% of residents are Christian, 23% have no £10,000xxv. Median gross weekly earnings in religion. 0.4% are Buddhist, 0.2% are Muslim, South Lakeland are £345.xxvi 0.1% are Hindu, 0.1% are Jewish and 0.4% are xiv believers in other religions. Fuel Poverty

Gender A household is said to be in fuel poverty if they have required domestic fuel costs that are above 49% of residents are male, 51% are female.xv the national median level and, if they were to There is a gender pay imbalance in South spend that amount, they would be left with a Lakeland, the median gross weekly earnings of a residual income below the official poverty line, male in full time employment is £488, whereas the Low Income High Cost (“LIHC”) measure. for a female in full time employment the figure is Importantly, the LIHC measure gives £340.xvi. consideration both to the cost of heating a home Females in part-time employment have the and to its occupants’ ability to pay that cost, lowest median gross weekly earnings of £169.xvii particularly focusing on those households that Taking account of both full and part time experience hardship as a result of their fuel employment, the gender pay imbalance is even costs.xxvii page 3 Page 152 Equality Scheme 2016-19 South Lakeland District Council

11.6% of homes (approximately 5,339 People in rural areas typically spend 10-20% households) in South Lakeland are in fuel more on everyday requirements than those in poverty. This compares with a national average urban areas. People living in rural areas are of 10.4%, a regional average of 11.3% and a forced to depend more on cars as public Cumbrian average of 11.6%.xxviii transport is often unavailable. Domestic fuel costs are also higher in some rural areas, Fuel poverty is more prevalent in rural areas, with because of older, less fuel-efficient housing and many of South Lakeland’s rural wards having lack of mains gas.xxxvi higher rates of fuel poverty when compared to more urban wards. 64.9% of all households in fuel poverty are in rural areas and 13.8% of all Health Inequalities rural households are in fuel poverty; the wards of Health inequalities refer to avoidable differences Hawkshead, Satterthwaite, Lower Holker and in health and well-being that exist between xxix Middleton have the highest rate of fuel poverty. communities or groups of people. These Age UK South Lakeland’s The Compass inequalities are due to significant differences in research programme shows that 21.62% of our the social and economic conditions in which local older people live in fuel poverty.xxx people live. The impact of these different conditions on health and well-being can be seen by looking at different measures we have of Rural Deprivation health in our communities. 61.3% of South Lakeland’s residents live in a In South Lakeland the average life expectancy rural area, 26.7% of these residents are over for males is 80.8 and for females it is 83.9. 65.xxxi However, between the most and least deprived 63.6% of lone pensioners live in a rural area and wards there is a gap of 6 years for males and 5.6 17% of all households in rural areas are occupied years for females.xxvii by lone pensioners.xxxii In 2015, 7.9% (1,200) of children in South 17,005 people aged over 65 live more than 30 Lakeland are living in poverty.xxxviii minutes away from a main centre using public transport. 10,545 people aged over 65 lives more than 60 minutes away from a main centre using 4.0 South Lakeland Equality and public transport.xxxiii Diversity Partnership 57.2% of people aged below 16 years in South The council supports South Lakeland Equality Lakeland live in rural areas.xxxiv and Diversity Partnership (SLEDP) with 47.5% of working age Department of Work and administration support. The partnership is Pensions claimants in South Lakeland live in composed of interested representatives from the rural areas.xxxv private, public and third sectors.

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The partnership meets quarterly and aims to do The rail will be a great help to me this coming an annual project which meets their aim and winter as I have always been afraid of slipping.” objectives: • Seek to reduce inequality on the grounds Springboard Project of gender, race, disability, age, sexual Springboard is a partnership project between the orientation, rurality and religion/belief; council, Springfield Domestic Violence Hostel, • Celebrate diversity and reduce Cumbria and Lancashire Community discrimination; Rehabilitation Company, Impact Housing Association and Barnardo’s. The project was set • Improve the life chances and up from a successful bid by the council to the opportunities for people who live, work Department of Communities and Local and visit South Lakeland. Government. The 2015/16 partnership project is called ‘Hidden Springboard offers a range of services for victims Stories: Shares Lives’ and is currently seeking of domestic abuse and perpetrators. The funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The aim services for adults include perpetrator of the project is to celebrate and share stories programmes, for those wishing to change their about inward migration in Cumbria with the aim abusive behaviour. The Recovery Toolkit is a 12 on increasing community cohesion and week group work programme for women who are understanding of diversity in Cumbria. no longer in an abusive relationship and who want to develop confidence and relationship skills. Individual counselling and therapy is 5.0 Making a difference in South available for women and men who have experienced, or are experiencing, domestic Lakeland: Case studies abuse provided by experienced and accredited therapists Handy Persons Scheme Springboard also offers a number of services for To help the District’s ageing population, the children and young people which include: council provides elderly and vulnerable • A Recovery Toolkit for Young People householders with a service to help them carry which is an 8 session group work out very simple but essential works at their programme for young people affected by homes, such as replacing light bulbs, unblocking domestic abuse. sinks and installing grab rails. This service is known as the Handy Persons Scheme and is run • Training and preventative work for anyone by our Housing Team. working with children and young people, focusing on enabling practitioners to Further to this it was established that certain understand the dynamics of abuse, eligible households would also benefit from the identify those at risk, offering an effective installation of minor security measures, such as response and knowing what help is security lights and key safes. This would help to available. tackle key community safety priorities such as anti-social behaviour, domestic and sexual • Educational sessions with the aim of violence and acquisitive crime, as identified by informing young people about domestic the South Lakeland and Barrow Community violence, warning signs that someone Safety Partnership (SLCSP). may be in an abusive relationship and what young people can do if they feel that The scheme is popular and has helped elderly they, or someone they know, may be in an and vulnerable people stay in their homes longer abusive relationship. by helping to prevent accidents. Customer feedback from the scheme has been very The expected outcomes for participants of the positive, for example: project are: improved positive self-respect and confidence, improved emotional resilience, “Caring, kind, excellent people who have done a improved personal life skills and understanding great job; I’m very pleased indeed, thank you. of developing positive relationships. page 5 Page 154 Equality Scheme 2016-19 South Lakeland District Council

Appleby Horse Fair Community Drop in A-boards Code of Conduct Events Health and Safety concerns were raised about For centuries the Appleby Horse Fair has taken unauthorised A-boards posing a hazard to place in the small village of Appleby-in- highway users, particularly people with sight Westmorland in the Eden District of Cumbria. problems. The annual horse fair runs for a week in early In response, South Lakeland District Council June, attracting around 10,000 Gypsies and worked with traders to develop a code of Travellers as well as up to 30,000 visitors. conduct, which seeks to ensure that A-boards The council works with partner organisations, outside shops and businesses do not cause including Cumbria County Council, police, obstructions and do not have a negative visual neighbouring local authorities and impact on the town centre street environment. representatives from the Gypsy/Traveller Under the terms of the code members of the community, to manage the migration of Gypsies public with complaints about A-boards can and Travellers through the District on their way to contact either the council or the South Lakeland and from the Fair. Chamber of Commerce. If a business is found Our staff organise temporary stopping point sites not adhering to the code then a letter will be sent in South Lakeland for both traditional ‘bow top’ to the business requiring them to remove the sign caravans and motorised towed caravans at four within two days. locations on routes through the district to If the matter is not dealt with satisfactorily and the Appleby. board either relocated or removed, then the The drop-in meetings that took place in May 2015 council may then take enforcement action under were an opportunity for residents in South its planning powers. Lakeland communities to speak to the council, The code was trialled for a year and then formally Cumbria County Council and police officers adopted by the council’s Cabinet in March 2014. regarding any concerns, issues or ideas relating to the horse fair arrangements. During a review meeting in December 2014, attended by representatives from the council, Sight Advice in Kendal and the Chamber of Commerce, the scheme was praised for delivering ‘substantial improvements’ in the town centre.

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“It is a great help to people with sight loss to have The Council Plan is assessed for equality less clutter on pavements, but it is also a great implications through an EIA during its help to people in wheelchairs, people on mobility development. This analysis serves as the scooters and mums and dads with buggies. The Council’s main equality document throughout the town looks more attractive to visitors and more year. welcoming on the whole to people with The budget and individual service plans are also disabilities.’’ John Wilkinson, a member of the assessed for equality implications. Vital Group, supported by Sight Advice. Through these measures certain key projects are Empty Homes identified as requiring further equality analysis. The Policy and Partnerships Team provides In South Lakeland there are approximately 1,000 support, suggests improvements and provides empty homes at any one time. The latest update contacts with local equality groups. Senior of the Strategic Housing Market Assessment Management Team and Cabinet both ensure that evidences the need for 687 affordable homes per a pro-active EIA has taken place before decision year over a five year period (3435 in total) so the making. need to maximise opportunities to increase the Additionally significant capital and revenue supply of available homes, and in particular, project proposals will be separately equality affordable homes is pressing. impact analysis if required. The council uses the Council Tax list to identify The council also has several statements and empty homes. We then contact owners to information on the website relating to accessibility establish the state of the property, why it is and equality information including the following: currently empty and what is being done about it by the owner. We then use a combination of • Reporting Hate Crime advice and assistance to show owners the • Website Accessibility Statement options available to them to bring the property back into use. Resources are targeted to at the • Accessibility areas identified in the Strategic Housing Market Equality training is offered to all members of staff Assessment as areas with the highest levels of as part of the corporate training programme. housing need. Translation and interpretation service are Further to this, funds are currently available to available should our customers require it. offer grants to private sector landlords to provide Requests for this can be made through the affordable rented dwellings. The purpose of this contact centre – 01539 733333. is to encourage town centre development. Grants are provided for conversions of commercial or empty property into residential dwellings. 7.0 Equality analysis and Resources are targeted at the main information service centres of Kendal, Ulverston, Ambleside, Grange-over-Sands, Kirkby • Census statistics Lonsdale, Milnthorpe, Sedbergh and • Quality of Life Survey Results Windermere/Bowness. • Equality Impact Analysis • Have your Say – including SLDC 6.0 Equality at South Lakeland consultations District Council • SLDC Employee Statistics The council has chosen to use Equality Impact • South Lakeland Equality Profile Analysis (“EIA”) to show how the council considers equality. EIAs are attached to • South Lakeland News committee reports, when proposals have a • Joint Strategic Needs Assessment potential impact on equality and diversity, and published on our website. • Cumbria Atlas page 7 Page 156 Equality Scheme 2016-19 South Lakeland District Council

• Information on Equality Groups in 11.0 Contact details South Lakeland Partnerships and Funding Officer: • South Lakeland Equality and Diversity [email protected] Partnership Senior Officer Equality Champion: Assistant • South Lakeland Parish Profiles Director Policy and Performance, Simon McVey Portfolio Holder for Health and Well-Being: 8.0 Employee and Member Councillor Graham Vincent information As at 1 September 2014, the council employs 403 staff (308 full time and 95 part-time) and has 51 councillors. The documents below highlight the employee profile of the council compared with South Lakeland as a district. The council also provides equality training for employees and councillors. There are three training courses available: - Equality - Equality Impact Analysis - Dementia Awareness Training

9.0 Plans, reports and meetings Below are the details of the council’s activities and procedures. They show where the council’s focus lies and how decisions are made: • Annual Report 2014/15 • Cabinet members and meetings • Calendar of council meetings • Council Plan 2015 to 2019 • Customer Charter • Overview and Scrutiny • Performance Dashboard • Procurement and Commissioning Strategy

10.0 Comments We welcome comments on the scheme and these will be taken into account for future versions. We have an equality page on our website where we publish equality information and impact analyses – www.southlakeland.gov.uk

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Appendix 1 Appendix 2 The Equality Act (2010) requires public bodies to: The Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties) Regulations 2011 - Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other The specific duties require public bodies to conduct prohibited by the Act. publish: - Advance equality of opportunity between - Information to demonstrate their people who share a protected compliance with the Equality Duty by 31 characteristic and those who do not. January 2012 and then at least annually, and - Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and - Equality objectives (which are specific those who do not. and measureable), by 6 April and then at least every four years.

page 9 Page 158 Equality Scheme 2016-19 South Lakeland District Council

References i Office for National Statistics. June 2014. Resident xx Ibid. p.5. Population Estimates, All Persons. [Online]. xxi Ibid. p.3. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: xxii Action with Communities in Cumbria. 2013. The State www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/disseminati of Rural Cumbria – Fuel Poverty update. [Online]. on/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=6275243&c=south+ [Accessed 19/11/2015]. Available from: lakeland&d=13&e=13&g=6412421&i=1001x1003x10 www.cumbriaaction.org.uk/Portals/0/ACT%20 04&m=0&r=1&s=1444818485552&enc=1&dsFamily Publications/PUB018%202013-12- Id=1813 19%20The%20State%20of%20Rural%20Cumbria. ii Cumbria Tourism. 2014. STEAM Research 2014 pdf, p.30 (accessed 16/11/2015) Summary. [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available xxiii Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. House Prices & from: Housing Affordability Ratios: Cumbria & Districts. www.investinsouthlakeland.co.uk/downloads/ 2015. [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: STEAM-Research-2014-Summary.pdf www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ iii Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. 2014. South Internet/536/675/1770/41122102130.pdf, p.5 Lakeland Population Estimates 2014. [Online]. xxiv Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. CACI: Pay check: [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: Household Income: Cumbria & Districts. 2015. www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: Internet/536/673/1757/3931717224.pdf www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ iv Office for National Statistics. June 2014. Resident Internet/536/675/4356/41094151055.pdf, p.1 Population Estimates, All Persons. [Online]. xxv Cumbria County Council. Annual Public Health Report [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: 2014. What makes Cumbria healthy? [Online]. www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/disseminati [Accessed 13/11/2015]. Available from: on/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=6275243&c=south+ xxvi Neighbourhood Statistics. 2015. Median gross weekly lakeland&d=13&e=13&g=6412421&i=1001x1003x10 earnings by place of work, Great Britain. [Online]. 04&m=0&r=1&s=1444818485552&enc=1&dsFamily [Accessed 22/12/2015]. Available at: Id=1813 www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/HTMLDocs/ v Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. 2012. Briefing: dvc126/ 2012 - Based Subnational Population Projections: xxvii Action with Communities in Cumbria. 2013. The State South Lakeland. [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. of Rural Cumbria – Fuel Poverty update. [Online]. Available at: [Accessed 19/11/2015]. Available from: www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ www.cumbriaaction.org.uk/Portals/0/ACT%20 Internet/536/673/1756/41820122442.pdf Publications/PUB019%202014-02- vi Ibid, p5. 26%20The%20State%20of%20Rural%20Cumbria% vii Ibid. p.6. 20-%20Fuel%20Poverty%20update.pdf viii Ibid, p.7. xxviii Department of Energy and Climate Change. 2015. ix Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. 2014. South Fuel Poverty Statistics 2014. [Online]. [Accessed Lakeland Population Estimates 2014. 2015. [Online]. 19/10/2015]. Available from: [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: www.gov.uk/government/collections/fuel-poverty- www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ statistics Internet/536/673/1757/3931717224.pdf xxix Action with Communities in Cumbria. 2013. The State x Cumbria County Council. Cumbria Joint Strategic of Rural Cumbria – Fuel Poverty update. [Online]. Needs Assessment – South Lakeland Statistical [Accessed 19/11/2015]. Available from: Summary. 2012. [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. www.cumbriaaction.org.uk/Portals/0/ACT%20 Available at: Publications/PUB019%202014-02- www.cumbria.gov.uk/eLibrary/Content/Internet/ 26%20The%20State%20of%20Rural%20Cumbria% 536/642/1750/4130310250.pdf, p.20 20-%20Fuel%20Poverty%20update.pdf, p.3-8 xi Ibid, p.8 xxx Age UK South Lakeland. Keeping warm and well this xii Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. 2014. South winter. 2015. [Online]. [Accessed 29/10/2015]. Lakeland Population Estimates 2014. 2015. [Online]. Available from: [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: www.ageuk.org.uk/southlakeland/news-- www.cumbria.gov.uk/eLibrary/Content/Internet/ campaigns/keeping-warm-and-well-this-winter/ 536/642/1750/4130310250.pdf xxxi Action with Communities in Cumbria. 2013. The State xiii Ibid.p.7. of Rural Cumbria – Fuel Poverty update. [Online]. xiv Ibid. [Accessed 19/11/2015]. Available from: www.cumbriaaction.org.uk/Portals/0/ACT%20 xv Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. 2011 Census Key Publications/PUB018%202013-12- & Quick Statistics – Equality Data. [Online]. [Accessed 19%20The%20State%20of%20Rural%20Cumbria. 19/12/2015]. Available at: pdf, accessed 20/10/2015, p.3-4 www.cumbria.gov.uk/eLibrary/Content/Internet/ xxxii 536/642/1750/4130310250.pdf, p.4. Ibid. p.8. xxxiii xvi Neighbourhood Statistics. 2015. Median gross weekly Ibid, p.11. earnings by place of work, Great Britain. [Online]. xxxiv Ibid, p.13. [Accessed 22/12/2015]. Available at: xxxv Ibid, p.20. www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/HTMLDocs/ xxxvi Joseph Rowntree Foundation. A minimum income dvc126/ (accessed 22/12/2015) standard for rural households. Donald Hirsch, 2010. xvii Ibid, (accessed 22/12/2015) [Online]. [Accessed 22/12/2015) Available from: xviii Ibid, (accessed 22/12/2015) www.jrf.org.uk/report/minimum-income-standard- xix Cumbria Intelligence Observatory. House Prices & rural-households Housing Affordability Ratios: Cumbria & Districts. xxxvii Public Health England. South Lakeland District Health 2015. [Online]. [Accessed 19/12/2015]. Available at: Profile 2015, 2 June 2015. [Online]. [Accessed www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/elibrary/Content/ 22/12/2015]. Available from: Internet/536/675/1770/41122102130.pdf, p.3 www.apho.org.uk/resource/item.aspx?RID=171655 (accessed 16/11/2015) xxxviii Ibid.p.4.

Page 159 page 10 Page 160 Appendix 2 Equality Scheme 2016-19 - SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Impact Area Summarise the Summarise the Negative Summarise the Neutral N/A Positive Impact (and any Impact Impact mitigating measures taken) Q1 Health and Well- The Equality Scheme aims being to show how the council complies with the Equality Act and specific duties. Page 161 Page

Q2 Access The council’s new equality objectives relate to improving access to services and access to a key service centre. Q3 Biodiversity

Q4 Built environment Objective 2 and 3 of the equality scheme relate to the built environment. Objective 2 aims to improve access to Kendal Town Centre and objective 3 aims to use the opportunity of

V2 1 updating the council’s development management policies to forward the aims of the equality act.

Q5 Air, water, land and soil quality

Q6 Greenhouse gas emissions, Page 162 Page energy efficiency, renewable energy and adapting to future climate change impacts Q7 Natural resources

Q8 Local economy Making Kendal Town Centre more accessible should improve the local economy.

V2 2 Q9 Skills, education n/a and training

Overall Impact Positive

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Page 164 Item No.12a

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Peter Thornton, Promoting South Lakeland and Finance Portfolio Holder

Portfolio summary Making South Lakeland the best place to live, work and explore

Overview of function The development and review of the Council Plan (incorporating the 5 year strategy). The promotion and marketing of SLDC including working with partners and stakeholders in the public, private and voluntary sector, at national, regional and sub-regional level. To act as an ambassador and advocate for the Communities of South Lakeland. The development of strategic policy to ensure that the Council has put in place proper arrangements to secure economy, efficiency and effectiveness in its use of resources, i.e. Value for Money. To ensure that the Council has proper arrangements in place for securing financial resilience. Nominated representative on the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership/Health and Wellbeing Board as appropriate.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Council Plan (incorporating the 5 Year Strategy)  Medium Term Financial Strategy  Budget Framework  Communications Strategy  Community Strategy

Key areas of responsibility  Press, Public Relations and Communications  Local and Cumbria Wide Strategic Partnerships  Localism  Relationships with Government Departments, and other relevant authorities at a sub- regional, regional and national level.  Rural Affairs  Strategic Finance  Budget monitoring  Treasury Management  Capital Programme  Value for money  Payments and Sundry Debtors

The Portfolio in 2015/16: Looking back

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided by directorates against each action, see tables below:

The election of a new government has been the pivotal point of 2015, culminating with the spending review at the end of November. It is becoming clear that our Council Plan targets for affordable housing may be increasingly difficult to deliver but we are lobbying hard to ensure that

Page 165 Ministers understand the impact of their announcements. In particular, the 1% decrease in rent is proving very difficult for our Registered Social Landlords.

We campaigned hard for exemptions under the Housing Association Right to Buy Scheme and I’m pleased to report that exemptions have been granted for communities under 3,000, National Parks and Community Land Trusts.

Financially, the Council has a sound plan for the rest of this parliament but needs to see more detail in the proposals for the localisation of business rates. We have adequate reserves for the challenges that we may be facing. It’s now become clear that we are expected to increase Council Tax, unlike the previous Parliament during which we were encouraged to freeze it.

The Floods provided us with our biggest challenge of the year as over 2,000 properties were affected in Kendal alone. We had a number of challenges but housing and the clearing of waterlogged belongings were the two main ones in the immediate aftermath. We are now moving to the recovery phase and the administration of government grants is taking much of our time.

We end the year with the question “Deal or No Deal” as we join the County Council and other Cumbrian Districts in making a decision as to whether or not to go forward with the Cumbrian Devolution bid.

2 Page 166 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

The council will support the development of higher paid jobs in South Lakeland 1. Providing the political prioritisation of investment This process is ongoing with regular officer attendance at We will enable requirements; Influencing South Lakeland priorities LEP officer meetings and 1:2:1 meetings with the LEP growth in within the LEP. Work with the LEP on Cumbria wide director. accordance with skills strategy (business support). the Cumbria Strategic 2. Building common priorities with other Ongoing discussions with other districts in Cumbria about Economic Plan, Councils/Counties and establishing best options for closer working, shared practices, joint working on key Promoting working in devolved economic models such as combined priorities such as the M6 Corridor project, LEP South Lakeland partnership with authorities, membership of multiple LEPs. infrastructure bids and devolution. the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) 3. To have a business case ready to draw down funds Business cases for key employment site projects are and local via the LEP or central government and strengthening progressing in conjunction with CCC including employment businesses. the impact and influence for Cumbria LEP in the sites at Scroggs Wood, Lightburn Road & Mainline. Page 167 Page national framework. 1. Report on procurement performance to SMT Annual update will be reported to O&S 22nd March 2016 Whilst working quarterly and annually to O&S and Cabinet. alongside the refreshed Sustainable Procurement & within regulations Commissioning Strategy 2016-19. our Sustainable 2. Report on performance monitoring of contracts to As above. Procurement & SMT quarterly and annually to O&S and Cabinet. Commissioning Promoting Strategy will give 3. Provide the political guidance and support to ensure Refreshed Sustainable Procurement & Commissioning South Lakeland more support to the update of the Sustainable Procurement & Strategy updated to reflect legislative changes, the Council local Commissioning strategy reflects the councils vision Plan and the National Procurement Strategy in Local organisations in and encompasses any legislative changes. Government. The draft Strategy will be reported to O&S tendering for work on 22nd March, Cabinet on 23rd March and Council on 31st March.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Provide political guidance and support that reflects Council’s Budget 2016/17 – 2019/20 approved 24 Through the the Cabinets long term strategic direction of council February 2016 with a balanced budget for 2016/17. The Medium Term priorities in the development of organisational savings budget includes a schedule of approved savings for Financial Plan, including the budget as part of the saving working 2016/17 onwards. There is still a projected deficit from invest to save group. 2017/18 onwards: the Savings Working Group will meet Promoting projects will during 2016/17 to identify savings proposals for April 2017 South Lakeland achieve onwards. efficiencies and 2. Report progress and achievements through a Quarterly Financial Monitoring reports to Cabinet and generate income monitoring report to O&S & Cabinet. Council detailed budget variances, including savings.

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4 Item No.12b South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Chris Hogg, Culture, Arts and Events Portfolio Holder

Overview of function The Council plan objectives in relation to promoting culture and the arts. To work with our cultural organisations to attract investment and to promote South Lakeland as a premier area for Arts and Events.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Arts and Events  Grants Strategy

Key areas of responsibility  Arts and Culture  Grants  Public Halls  Use of community assets for the promotion of arts and culture  Visitor Economy  Heritage and Events

The Portfolio in 2015/16:

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided against each action, with future work also included, see tables below:

Page 169 PH Focus Action End of Year update Links to other Portfolios We will build upon our cultural reputation as a place for nationally and internationally recognised arts, events and festivals 1. Create political level dialogue Relationships have continued to be strengthened with the Portfolio Holder with targeted key organisations attending ACE North and ACE Rural Network board meeting. The portfolio holder also took part in the LGA's annual Culture Conference in Leicester. The Portfolio holder also remains involved in Cumbria Tourism and Lakes Culture. Visits from Chief Executives remain important with Catherine Dewar of Historic England (North) visiting post flooding and also to inspect key sites within the District.

2. Develop the Cabinet thinking The 3 year Cultural Strategic partnerships supporting our ACE National

Page 170 Page on the role of Culture to identify Portfolio Organisations, Cumbria Museum Consortium, and Lakes Culture We will strengthen the outcomes and prioritise council remain at the heart of our cultural strategy. Our funding in this area ensures district’s creative and investment resilient, dynamic organisations that make SLDC the leading rural cultural cultural reputation, destination in the UK. We have also supported these organisations capital bids supporting our leading (Wordsworth Trust, Lakeland Arts, and The Brewery Arts Centre) to ensure the Health and cultural organisations future of these key institutions. Wellbeing to secure investment through Arts Council We continue to develop our sports adventure capital projects such as Big Chill England Swim, Tour of Britain, and Kendal Mountain Festival and look to further develop our reputation in the future.

Key festivals remain important to is and we continue to invest in these as well as the infrastructure and the dressing of towns. We have also played an important role in the increasing outdoor concert programme. In addition we also support a wide and diverse range of events too such as the Lake District Holocaust Projects. 4. Research best practice in We continue to explore best practice by taking part in LGA events and being local government and cultural closely involved with ACE and other key organisations. development. Relationships with Local Government Association (LGA), ACE etc.to feed into the strategy 5. Production of an events As above. management guide and website

Page 171 Page

PH Focus Action End of Year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Provide political direction to Festivals infrastructure document produced and evaluated for Kendal. the prioritisation of investment New banner display system proposed for Kendal, Ulverston, Milnthorpe, Cartmel and Kirkby Lonsdale. Event infrastructure improvements carried out at Kendal Town Hall - new sound and projector facilities installed. We will improve infrastructure in our towns 2. Investigate new large scale The Tour of Britain 2016 will feature a Cumbria stage with the finish in to support South Lakeland signature events for the area Kendal. Economic as a premier area for Growth, Town culture, arts events and 3. Deliver / support the following We continue to develop our sports adventure capital projects such as Big Centres and festivals. events during 2015/16: Chill Swim, Tour of Britain, and Kendal Mountain Festival and look to further Small develop our reputation in the future. Businesses Page 172 Page We will encourage best Health and use of our distinctive Key festivals remain important to is and we continue to invest in these as Wellbeing environment as a location well as the infrastructure and a range of events too such as the Lake District Housing and for attracting cultural Holocaust Projects. Strategic activities and events that We are developing a range of case studies working with partners to Development strengthen the district’s illustrate the role that arts can play in helping with health issues particularly Environment visitor economy and the mental health. and People health and wellbeing of our residents We continue to explore best practice by taking part in LGA events and being closely involved with ACE and other key organisations.

Lakes Culture remains an important development in terms of NPOs and other partners as well as the Tourism sector working together and we continue to be at the heart of this cultural destination initiative.

The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment

We will enhance and 1. Develop the political direction Ongoing. Housing and preserve our built heritage and prioritisation of heritage Strategic across the district and conservation Development

4 support our National Park 2. Develop and inform Member Ongoing. Economic partners to make the Lake understanding of the approach Growth, Town District National Park a Centres and World Heritage Site Small Businesses 3. Advocate the Council's Ongoing. Environment support for Heritage and People Conservation

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Page 174 Item No.12c

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Giles Archibald, Economic Growth, Town Centres and Small Businesses Portfolio Holder

Portfolio summary Creating opportunities for sustainable growth

Overview of function The Council Plan objectives as they relate to the Portfolio area of work, and cross-cutting work developed through the Local Plan and Economic Development Strategy. Working in partnership to ensure a thriving and prosperous District within the context of the wider sub-region, through effective economic development, regeneration and transport strategies. Working in partnership to ensure thriving and prosperous town centres throughout the District. Providing public realm infrastructure to promote the local economy. Promoting and assisting small businesses in both towns and rural areas.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Economic Development Strategy

Key areas of responsibility  Economic Inward Investment  Business Support and Sector Development  Town Centre Planning, Car Parks and Transportation  Public realm (e.g. parks and open spaces)  Planning and Building Control  Markets

The Portfolio in 2015/16: Looking back

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update is provided against each action, see tables below:

Page 175 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

The council will support the development of higher paid jobs in South Lakeland 1. Providing the political prioritisation of This process is ongoing with regular officer attendance at investment requirements; Influencing South LEP officer meetings and 1:2:1 meetings with the LEP Lakeland priorities within the LEP. Work with the director. LEP on Cumbria wide skills strategy (business support) We will enable growth 2. Building common priorities with other Ongoing discussions with other districts in Cumbria about in accordance with the Councils/Counties and establishing best options closer working, shared practices, joint working on key Cumbria Strategic for devolved economic models such as combined priorities such as the M6 Corridor project, LEP Economic Plan, authorities, membership of multiple LEPs infrastructure bids and devolution. Promoting working in partnership South Lakeland with the Cumbria Local - Implementation Implementation of revised activities to meet new strategy. Enterprise Partnership - Identifying and delivering wider Member Page 176 Page (LEP) and local understanding and support of the linkages In 2016 will brief members on the proposed strategy and businesses. between policies and strategies which support provide an opportunity for input and participation. growth 3. To have a business case ready to draw down Business cases for key employment site projects are funds via the LEP or central government and progressing in conjunction with CCC including employment strengthening the impact and influence for sites at Scroggs Wood, Lightburn Road & Mainline. Cumbria LEP in the national framework 1. Support and Influence the Furness Economic Close working links established with the FEDF project We will maximise our Development Forum (FEDF) to deliver the team. Invest in South Lakeland presence at key supply growth potential from projects as per the agreed business cases chain events and good sharing of business intelligence. the major investment in 2. Support and Influence the Cumbria LEP to Established good links with new LEP Board members to advanced deliver the projects as per the agreed business help promote South Lakeland projects. manufacturing in the cases (this will require close alignment with the Furness area and the leading representatives of South Lakeland on the investment LEP) opportunities in the M6 3. Consideration of economic development Working closely with land owners and developers to corridor as per the LEP delivery models with public/private and third consider best options to deliver sites. Strategy sectors

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Providing members and third parties with The Councils primary objectives as headlined in the relevant information and support to make Council Plan are 1000 new jobs and 1000 new affordable considered decisions on the plans and homes for rent. In the main, these objectives will be investments required to achieve the council’s delivered by the private sector and it is the Councils role to objectives. Influence Capital Programme try and create the necessary economic conditions to enable We will lead and shape and facilitate such investment. Officers continue to engage the delivery of new with third party private sector landowners and developers, employment sites as well as Members, to provide advice and support. This including the underpins the role of the current team of officers in redevelopment of the economic development. Kendal and Ulverston As part of the assessment of suitable interventions to areas through: facilitate growth, the ED team constantly seek to identify opportunities for capital investment and this will continue in 2016/17. 2. Deliver the Kendal Enterprise Centre Project delivered successfully on time and to budget. 10

Page 177 Page business units created/ 29 jobs on site. Redundant building in prominent location brought back into use. 1. Provide member support to the promotion of Successful business events have been held throughout the Through our ‘Invest in the District as a place to invest through such way engaging with over 300 businesses on a local and South Lakeland’ initiatives as MIPIM, Invest in South Lakeland regional basis. Various press releases to local and industry programme, we will events and key business contacts press have been well received. promote growth through inward Environment investment and the and People 2. Develop member understanding and support Ongoing initiative. growth of existing for proposed initiatives through the portfolio businesses. We will Promoting holder reports. encourage businesses South Lakeland 3. Review the progress of Invest in South The Invest programme remains popular with a series of whose products and Lakeland in attracting Inward Investment, events, well-visited website and the useful land and services reduce carbon Consider and identify business who’s products premises register. usage and improve the and service reduce carbon to enable the targeting environment. of activity

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Build common priorities with Neighbouring SLDC have engaged with the LEP Infrastructure Plan Councils, including the County Council (as above) process.

2. Commence work on the new Local Plan Commencement due July 2017. Evidence base requirements currently being assessed including scoping for Objectively Assessed Need assessment. 3. Town Centre master planning /Action Planning Ongoing, SLDC sit on the board of Kendal Futures, Kendal to address accessibility of town centres starting and Ulverston BIDS and the newly formed Windermere with Kendal Economic Group.

We will plan for future - External support for development of Ongoing initiative, steering group established with partners. major infrastructure Master planning process Kendal Market Place capital project is progressing well in Page 178 Page needs which will partnership with local stakeholders. Project will support support growth in the better space for markets and events with improved power Promoting principal centres of supply. South Lakeland Kendal and Ulverston. For example assessing - Fully consulted Kendal Master Plan Consultants Aecom appointed. Timetable extended to end Housing and need for strategic road of December 2016 due to impact of Storm Desmond. Strategic improvements and Development lobbying the case for - Outcomes of process fed into the local Draft Local Plan will be published in the near future. improvement to rail plan, consultation and examination. Timetable allows for Master Plan to feed into Policy services. development

- Commence process for Ulverston The current proposal is to focus less on the core town centre which has benefitted recently from new public realm investment and for which the town council and Business improvement District have their own ideas for change and improvement, and rather focus attention on the Canal Head/Corridor area from the A590 towards the GSK investment site. A comprehensive Plan for this area was undertaken some years ago and we are investigating the opportunity to reengage the consultants concerned.

4 We will help our towns and villages to thrive commercially whilst retaining their distinctive character 1. Build relationships with local Parish and Town Proactive work ongoing with flood affected communities Housing and We will work with local Councils and business groups to engender local such as Grasmere and Ambleside. Strategic businesses and commitment to plan making for their town/village. Development councils to create town 2. Establish a priority order of where we would Work is ongoing on Economic Action plans for Milnthorpe, and parish plans. seek to encourage production of Town Centre Ulverston Canal Head, Windermere Economic Scoping Health and These will set out the Action Plans and link these with the master studies and possible similar study for Sedbergh. Wellbeing vision for our towns planning process within strategic growth. over the next 10 years 3. Encourage and secure partner participation in As above. Support provided to Kendal and Ulverston BIDs. Environment to help secure their Plan production and delivery of resultant actions. Accountable body role for Kendal Futures. and People future and encourage (Example activities - Kendal futures and support

investment from the of the Kendal Economic Growth action plan, Culture, Arts private and public Windermere Town Council and the economic and Events sectors. impact study, Grange over Sands Neighbourhood Innovation and Plan, Kendal Master planning) Improvement PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Page 179 Page 1. Build relationships with business groups in the Ongoing programme of working closely with LEP, FSB, key service centres. Link with 2. Above Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, BIDS, local chamber of Housing and We will work with local trades and other business task forces. Strategic business 2. Engage and represent the Council on BID SLDC portfolio holder is a director on Kendal BID Board, Development organisations, boards in Kendal and Ulverston local member is on Ulverston BID Board, both also have Health and encouraging them to officer attendance. Wellbeing foster the growth of 3. Delivery of town centre projects e.g. Pedestrian Pop-up shop initiative has been very successful. Ongoing Culture and Arts town and village centre audit in Milnthorpe, Revamp of Kendal Market dialogue with businesses and town councils on how to Environment business Place, markets and specialist markets, town support key service centres including shop front grants. and People centre WI FI, Promote the Community Toilet Scheme We will work with the 1. Encourage the engagement and address of Kendal Town Council on stakeholder engagement panel for town and parish this issue through the Town Centre Action Plan town centre master plan. KTC representatives appointed. councils and local approach. Key role as plan proceeds. Meeting with major Housing and businesses to address stakeholders to be organised in April. Strategic the issues of empty Development shops and empty properties above shops.

5 1. Consideration and confirmation of the business Consultant report completed. O&S task review completed. management objectives of the Parking Service, Review with other interested parties ongoing. Action plan We will continue with informed by the contribution of parking being developed for 2016/17. the strategic review of management to the Council priorities. South Lakeland District Council controlled car 2. Consider and guide a strategy for future Parking Strategy included as part of brief for Master Plan. parks, to increase the provision of parking in town centres, in the economic benefits in context of Town Centre Action Planning and the All portfolios the towns across the Council's asset management strategy. district and investigate options for a coach parking facility in Kendal

Page 180 Page PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment 1. Support the development of a strategy towards Economic Development team involved in public realm We will work with local public realm and public open spaces project funding through EPF grants and supporting Kendal communities to Market Place upgrade. improve and manage 2. Provide political guidance on priorities Delivered through the revised strategy Environment the public realm and 3. Build member relationships with other Councils Continued engagement with councillors. Encouragement of and People make best use of and and service providers to enable more effective councillors to involver portfolio holder and SLDC as a care for our parks and localism approaches partner in local projects. LIP funding for some projects. open spaces

Looking Forward 2016/17:

We hope to roll out free WiFi in several additional communities and to establish a Windermere economic group following the Windermere economic potential study.

We will be embarking on an economic study for Milnthorpe.

This year will see significant enhancements to Waterhead, the Glebe, Millerground, Nobles Rest and Ferry Nab, as a result of local, LDNP and SLDC involvement and resources.

We will also complete a programme of Park recovery after the floods, the repair of the Rydal road car park bridge and work on enhanced signage in our car parks. Sandylands will soon open its new playground.

We are also delighted that thanks to excellent collaboration with the County Council, Electric charging points are being installed throughout the district.

Particularly pleasing this year has been the establishment of business focused groups in Ulverston, Ambleside and Grasmere, and the impressive achievements of the Kendal BID. We hope to further deepen our partnership with these groups and where appropriate help establish groups in other communities.' Page 181 Page

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Page 182 Item No.12d

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Sue Sanderson, Environment and People Portfolio Holder

Portfolio summary Protecting and enhancing our environment

Overview of function The organisation of the Authority relating to the Council’s central services including Member Services and Employee relations. To take the lead on Waste Management/Recycling and relevant Council Plan measures under the environment objectives. To support the Leader of the Council and to deputise in his/her absence.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Member Training and Development Plan  Workforce Plan  Waste Management Strategy  Licensing and Statement of Gambling Policies

Key areas of responsibility  Corporate Health and Safety  Legal and HR Services  Member Services and Committee Admin  Member Training and Development  Waste Management and Recycling  Street scene  Licensing and Gambling  Carbon/Greenhouse gas Reduction and Community Energy  Green agenda – Low carbon development, Transport and Cycling  Joint area planning with County Council

The Portfolio in 2015/16:

Throughout the course of the year other areas that have received involvement from the environment portfolio include:-  Private Water Supplies  Flood Recovery and Resilience  Internal Drainage Board

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided against each action, with future work also identified. See tables below:

Page 183 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council will help residents to reduce the total amount of household waste and extend the range of recycled materials from the kerbside Phase 1 Completed 31 March 2015. Phase 2 Deferred to be completed to the whole of the district from March 2016 onwards. We will extend kerbside recycling, by Providing long term strategic planning Kerbside Plastic and cardboard collection service Expansion increasing the range direction for the Council regarding program continues. Expansion to Ulverston in week of recyclables waste and recycling commencing 22nd February with delivery of recycling bags & collected and information leaflets. changing the way we Explore options for future service Consideration of a county wide initiative to be progressed collect materials. We delivery models incl. LGA supported through the Cumbria Strategic Waste Partnership, with support will use our waste as Cumbria wide collection models from WRAP. a resource to improve

Page 184 Page Provide Member guidance through the Round optimisation has taken place and become more the economic return Waste and Recycling Project Board. embedded for entire district, options for future disposal of from the re use and materials being explored with partners. recycling of materials collected from the Lead relationships with key Members meeting was postponed due to flooding, next kerbside stakeholders e.g. County Council and meeting will be held on 22/4/16. Cumbria Strategic Waste Partnership to develop long term ambition for zero waste to landfill.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council will make progress in reducing carbon emissions and become more energy efficient Installation of solar panels on This is being looked at on a building by building basis and will appropriate council buildings be reviewed as part of the Strategic Asset Management Plan to be prepared during 2016/17. Carry out feasibility study for social To be picked up in 2016/17 as an element of the Strategic housing and all public buildings asset Management Plan. Outcome of the NPS assessment of Progress will be informed by the new Strategic Asset We will reduce the renewable energies and efficiency Management Plan. council’s carbon options for councils buildings published emissions by reducing our energy use Further work commissioned to look at As Above. through the all other options for council land and Housing and Strategic management of our freeholdings such as rain water Development land and buildings. harvesting, carbon capture and We will influence and alternative power sources for council Page 185 Page encourage others to transport reduce their carbon Following the commissioned report Await outcome of further assessment within the Strategic Asset footprint outcomes provide the political direction Management Plan. as to the priorities for investment and establishment of a programme Establish the member support and It was agreed on the Environment Away day the position on profile for Council's position on Carbon carbon reduction and Micro energy. Reduction

The council will support communities to become more energy efficient

3 Launch Event Supported Cumbria Action for Sustainability with training for retrofitting energy efficient systems.

Community nominations and CAfS have been able to support 14 communities during this We will help local prioritisation of project to support pilot year of the project. communities and 1. Lindale Beck hydro individuals access 2. Sandgate Hydrotherapy Pool Page 186 Page advice to develop 3. Stainton Institute micro-renewable 4. Growing Well energy generating 5. Staveley Mill Yard Housing and Strategic projects. We will 6. Arnside Cemetery Chapel Development promote the Green 7. Levens’ Village Master Plan Deal and other 8. Ulverston: Coronation Hall schemes to improve 9. Ulverston: Covered Market energy efficiency and 10. Gleaston Village Hall tackle fuel poverty 11. Burneside Community Energy 12. Community Energy Cumbria 13. Development of a community woodland project in Longsleddale 14. The Rain Power hydro share issue, Killington 3 new communities already requested support in 2016. Review lessons learnt, growth bid What’s worked well: application • Having a dedicated officer means they can respond rapidly to requests from communities for support as and when they arise. • Bringing in expert consultancy advice where needed on specifics like ventilation, hydro renewable energy, solar PV etc. • Partnership working with other agencies e.g. ACT • Partnership cross promotion and marketing • Events – received excellent feedback from the events and there is great potential to develop peer to peer learning and

4 skill sharing going forward. The growth bid for Year two and three has been successful for this project to continue. Page 187 Page

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment Stakeholder engagement: Grange External funding has been secured to look at the Grange Lido Health and Well Being Promenade – consultation on routing on and the opportunities for investment in the asset and promenade. Meetings with CCC, LDNPA, surrounding area. This work is to be commissioned shortly. Economic Development Canal Trust, British Cycling There is market interest in the Berners site, but we will await the outcome of the Lido study before putting forward any Lancaster Canal Northern Reaches – Cycle composite recommendations. path feasibility study, financial support for a We will support project officer to progress this and possible LCRP have just appointed a project manager to develop and Cumbria County contribution to economic impact study promote a multi-use trail along the canal path, which has Council and local been possible with SLDC and third sector funding. Morecambe Bay Partnership Cycleway – partners with their LIP Grant to assist establishment of cycle strategies for No money spent as yet. Background work is taking place - route and assistance towards ‘tramper’ cycling, such as the work for the electric bike network is taking place at the Page 188 Page cycles (less able bodied users) developing safer moment. A brief expected to be complete by Easter. By routes to work and Summer 2016 more progress will be made and should start to school and see results - signs in place etc. promoting cycle Culture and Arts tourism. British Cycling recreational cycling projects We are supporting for another year at least, with a financial contribution and an officer will also attend all the meetings We will explore and assist with the marketing, co-ordinating with Comms etc. potential There will be new rides in Kirkby Lonsdale and Sedbergh this opportunities with year, as well as a special one on Easter Sunday going from the Canal Trust to Grasmere to Thirlmere on mainly off road route: develop cycle http://www.goskyride.com/Search/Details?eventid=74093 routes Engage with Sweetspot and CCC to ensure Confirmation received that Cumbria will be hosting a stage of that South Lakeland host a start or finish of the Tour of Britain in 2016, with the stage finish hosted in the Tour of Britain by 2017. Kendal . Build Member relationships with CCC, Responded to Cycling Strategy consultation for the Cumbria LDNPA, Kendal BID, to agree common Cycling Partnership which includes local authorities across priorities for investment and promote cycling the county, British Cycling, Cumbria Tourism and LDNPA. routes e.g. cycle routes through Kendal: There is an event on Thu 25th February which Rachel Earnshaw will be attending regarding this work.

6 Lake District National Park Authority – Attended meetings, working in partnership with LDNPA, CCC Meeting to be arranged (June) to include and reps from Kendal including BID. Mark Brierley of CCC to agree common interests in promotion of cycling and cycle routes Advocate support for cycling initiatives; A couple of projects to note: including cycle hubs and promotion of cycle trails -Partnership working with Morecambe Bay Partnership to promote the MB Cycle Way and loops and spurs scheme, and assess the use of the Grange Prom route through community engagement with MBP and Grange public

-Funding towards a Project Manager for Lancaster Canal Regeneration partnership – this PM will be a key driving force in establishing and promoting the canal path as a multi-use trail inc cycling

-SLDC part-funding Morecambe Bay/Arnside Viaduct study – Page 189 Page to create a pedestrian and cycle way alongside the viaduct.

New Road: resolve the legal standing to the In liaison with PH for Innovation and Improvement work being Innovation and land at New Road in 2015, enabling undertaken under Assets. Improvement decision on the cycle route

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Through a flexible and skilled workforce Having achieved the Overview of IiP programme – Gold On 10, 13 and 16 July 2015, the Council was re-accredited ‘Investors in People Target with the IIP standard. This will continue to support the Council (IiP)’ silver award in to achieve the objective set within the Council Plan 2014 - 17. 2014, we will embed Action Plan developed and on target for next re-accreditation Innovation and its principles into the review in October 2017. Workforce plan is being developed. Improvement organisation, Reorganisation of departments e.g. Legal, HR, Democratic through our personal Service also including the reorganisation of Street scene performance staffing structure all of which has been agreed through HR appraisals and Committee.

7 learning and Effective Corporate Training programme Programme including Member training, Management and development including Cabinet Aspiring Manager training, statutory and key skills (including programme. We are digitalisation) has been established following analysis with committed to Operational Managers maintaining the Effective apprenticeship programmes Four business administration apprentices appointed. Two ‘Investors in People’ further apprentices in Policy & Partnerships and Street scene. silver standard and Review underway with regard to 2017 introduction of retaining our Apprentice Levy and what number of apprentices is reputation as an appropriate for SLDC. employer and service provider of choice in the area, Health and Safety Committee - Member Attended the Health and Safety Committee on 26 January. and beyond. We will representative for Health and Safety of The meeting received the quarter 3 Health and Safety report continue to develop the workforce and service delivery and an update on the action and improvement plan. Concerns our skilled workforce were discussed regarding violence and aggression in the with a more flexible, reception area. A revised risk assessment has been coordinated Page 190 Page undertaken, and some changes are to be made to help approach to working mitigate these issues. The Principal Health Safety and across services: Wellbeing Officer is being invited to give an update briefing on Health and Safety to the members of the Human Resources Committee.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Through our community leaders Our elected Members Member Training and Development Plan reviewed by O+S. Recommended next year to go to act as community plan Council. leaders and are Chairs the Member Development Working Group provided input into digital project. Also looking advocates for local working group forward to working under new arrangements. people. We will Innovation and ensure they are given Impact and implementation of the Awaiting Boundary Commission proposal – due April. Improvement the training they need Further Electoral Review (link with the to effectively leader) represent the IT for Members and attend Members Being incorporated with Customer Connect Programme. residents of South support steering group Lakeland.

Page 191 Page The Portfolio in 2016/17: Looking forward

We will be identifying further rounds for the Kerbside collection of plastic and cardboard and have a target for the whole district to be in receipt of this service by February 2017. Further work will take place on developing a zero waste approach in conjunction with the County Council

We will be looking at workforce planning in conjunction with the Customer Connect programme We will continue to work with the County Council on joint area planning We will continue to work with the County Council on flood recovery and mitigation in conjunction with the Environment Agency and other partners We will continue working with partners to support Active travel and delivery of the Action Plan.

Community Energy Project Of the 14 organisations supported in the pilot year, 10 may still need some ongoing consultation. A further 3 new organisations have also requested support during year 2. Future work that will take place to support the project are: • CAfS are holding five energy fairs this spring linked to communities we have been working with in the South Lakes. • They kick off in Arnside on Saturday 12th March, to help people find out about options for upgrading the insulation and heating of the Cemetery Chapel and talk to our team about saving energy at home or in similar community buildings.

9 • Next up was our biggest energy fair at Kendal town hall on Saturday 19th March, where there was the chance to explore greener lifestyle choices – from local beer, bike maintenance, furniture upcycling, DIY draught proofing to wood burning. Plus stall holders covering solar PV, recycled plastic, hydroelectricity, permaculture. • The fairs at Sedbergh on Wednesday 30th March and Windermere on Saturday 16th April will cover for advice on DIY draught proofing, fuel bill comparisons, upcycling, grow your own and a repair workshop. • At Burneside on 5th April, you’ll be able to pick our brains on home energy and hear about local plans for community renewable energy. Page 192 Page

10 Item No.12e

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Graham Vincent, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio Holder

Overview of function The relationship of the Council with its citizens; civic participation and the Council plan objectives around leisure, health and wellbeing and working with communities. Working with key partners with regards to public health and community safety.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Equality Scheme  Health and Wellbeing Strategy  Community Safety Strategy  Emergency Plan

Key areas of responsibility  Community Development  Emergency Planning  Crime and Disorder Reduction  Public Health  Voluntary Sector Engagement  Homelessness  Leisure and Recreation  Looking at issues to address those disadvantaged (including anti-poverty – fuel poverty)  Young people/projects

The Portfolio in 2015/16: Looking back

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided against each action, with some future work also identified. See tables below:

Page 193 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

Through our Public Health and Wellbeing Strategy the council and its partners will support health improvements and reduce health inequalities 1. Create and reinforce cabinet Proposals around Health Impact Assessment were agreed at wide understanding of the health SMT - to be rolled out for April. It will be named the Health, and wellbeing agenda and how it Social, Economic and Environmental Impact Assessment. cross cuts all portfolios

2. Provide political guidance and New strategy to be developed for SLDC in the next year which support for the Strategy Action will be in line with the work of the Health and Wellbeing Forum. Plan: - Wider determinants of health Attending Physical Activity Forum meetings and contributing to - Physical activity the Cumbria and Lancashire Move More: Strategy for Physical - Health protection Activity and Sport. Westmorland General Hospital signed up to Healthier Menus Award and joint press release.

Page 194 Page We will work to deliver the strategy’s three key themes Air quality update to go out as soon as possible with the latest of managing: the wider figures. All portfolios influences on health and 3. Promote the Council's work in Priorities have been identified by the group for Children and wellbeing improving health and Wellbeing Young Families, Working Age Adults and Older Adults after amongst partner organisations looking at health related data for South Lakeland. Two workshops will be taking place to develop projects.

4. Review of South Lakeland Public Health information was gathered for a presentation to Health Data replaces use of the the health forum in November. The data will be reviewed when Quality of Life Survey to new data is released from Public Health England. Public measure health and WB Protection are attending Health Intelligence meetings with the performance county council and partners to develop the chapters of the JSNA.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Provide political guidance and Ongoing process. Our strategy is to raise the profile of health support in the Leisure and well-being. NCL are an expert partner. There is a current We will work with North Partnership Board, ensuring the budget set that will be shared between ourselves and NCL that Country Leisure to improve Board is focussed on improving is allocated to take an outreach service to vulnerable places to health, wellbeing and the reach and impact of physical make them more included. We gave open water swimming physical activity activity on the local health and tuition to 1500 people on Lake Windermere, with support from programmes that are wellbeing agenda. our partners, NCL and ASA and the Royal National lifeboat accessible to all our institute. This was so successful that in the coming year this residents and visitors. will be the ASA and RNLI flagship partnership and will give swimming tuitions to 3000 young people. 1. Represent and promote the The Portfolio Holder attends the Forum meeting however the Council's ambition in the Health effectiveness of this group is still to be evaluated. and Wellbeing Forum.

Page 195 Page Through the South Lakeland Health and Wellbeing Forum we will develop relationships with key public health and 2. Build strategic partner We have improved our relationships with third sector third sector providers to relationships to enable delivery organisations who deliver a significant wide range of strengthen influence and of the Councils' priorities and specialised areas. facilitate a more joined up strategy outcomes. approach to initiatives linking good housing, environment 3. Ensure key relationships are Continuing progress. and economic growth built and maintained with the Public Health Alliance through to the Cumbria H and WB Board.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Continue to build and forge Regular bi-monthly meetings held. relationships with key partners e.g. Cumbria Police to promote South Lakeland as a safe place to invest 2. As chair represent and Reducing alcohol related crime campaign delayed - launch promote the work of the joint planned for April. SLDC/BBC Community Safety Partnership: Acquisitive crime - Building on the message - we all have a - Reducing alcohol related crime responsibility to keep our property and personal belongings - Acquisitive crime safe, working with Crime Stoppers, Wheelbase and Cumbria - Joint working Tourism to raise awareness of acquisitive crime, including bike - Legal Highs theft in the area in Feb and March. Page 196 Page

Through our excellent Joint working - Agreed to continue current joint working Community Safety arrangements in 2016-17, with a shared chair, shared Partnership work with coordinator and joint Partnership Plan. Priorities in 2016-17 will Economic Growth, partners to reduce the be alcohol related crime, including New Psychoactive Town Centre and number of people affected Substances (NPS) and acquisitive crime. Small Businesses by domestic violence,

substance misuse and anti- Legal Highs - 34 people trained - number affected by Kendal social behaviour flooding. Additional session to be held in Kendal April 2016. Workshop sessions with young people to be led by the Youth Engagement Service and NPS resources purchased for use in schools by all partners. 3. Represent and promote the Using funding from Safer Cumbria and working with all work of the partnership to the Cumbrian CSPs, we are holding in April training on Domestic Safer Cumbria Chairs Group Homicide Reviews so that all CSP partners understand legal requirements. 4. Through the Police and Crime Attend PCP meetings. Minutes from meetings provided to O & Panel represents SLDCs S. interests to the Police and Crime Commissioner and reports back to SLDC on outcomes

4 5. Provide political Attend quarterly meetings. representation to the Business Against Crime SL Partnership to tackle business related crime and keep the area safe 6. Explore the benefits and We have an ongoing strategic group of partners bringing opportunities of working closer measures to reduce rural crime by raising awareness of with Eden DC to promote the low insecure premises, vehicles and fuel stores etc. Encouraging a levels of crime that exist in rural reporting system to aim to prevent rural crime. communities.

Page 197 Page

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

We will develop our 1. Develop relationship with third Ongoing development. Relationships continue to strengthen. arrangements with the third sector These relationship are seen as a key development to sector, working together improving the wellbeing and care of South Lakeland residents. more effectively to strengthen communities and improve people's lives. We will explore opportunities for commissioning services 2. Explore and consider the The third sector hub which is the Gateway, is currently which provide excellent development of a commission producing a structure that is aimed at showing the input that a value for money for our model very wide number of organisations can make to healthcare communities. effective. Planning permission has been granted and we wait to hear of We will continue to work with

Page 198 Page development commencing. others in support of a

crematorium facility in South Lakeland. 1. Develop a joint action plan New safeguarding policy, whole council training programme with CCC for the delivery of and all commissioning contracts will reflect safeguarding young people’s priorities responsibilities. Training programme starting around June Support young people to - Implement actions from the 2016. have a greater voice in the Young people’s health check democratic process - Young people’s festival The White Noise festival was held in February 2016. Successful event that encouraged democracy in young people and 650 people attended. The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment

The Department of Transport bid was not granted and feedback associated to the air quality standards not being We will promote air and significant compared to other areas. Air quality press release water quality and address due to go out asap with latest figures. Private water supplies environmental nuisance are undergoing risk assessments and sampling. The public complaints. protection team continues to deal with around 2,000 per annum requests for service for environmental protection.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council and its partners will work together to significantly reduce the risk of homelessness 1. Provide political guidance and Homelessness Strategy adopted in 2013. Significant progress support to the homelessness in implementing key elements including corporate commitment strategy. to homelessness prevention, working with other agencies to address support needs, developing the private sector offer and avoiding placing people in Bed and Breakfast accommodation. 2. Ensure the Council is Council is represented on the Cumbria Strategic represented in housing forums Homelessness Group, the Cumbria Housing Group, Cumbria which influence homelessness Housing Executive, Cumbria Homelessness Officers Group We will deliver our strategy policy. Liaise with PFH Strategic and Cumbria Supporting People Steering Group. to reduce homelessness, Growth provide the correct support

for those who need it and 3. Build effective political Protocols in place with CCC children’s services and Adult manage the impact of relationships with CCC with Social Care. Relationship significantly improved over the past Page 199 Page welfare reforms. regard to the role the Housing year. Productive engagement over renewal of Supporting Authority plays in Adult and People contract for Town View Fields Hostel. young children’s care 4. Continue to monitor impact of Watching brief – ongoing liaison between Housing Options welfare reforms team and Revenues and Benefits team. Review of Social Lettings Scheme pending – in part driven by potential impacts of welfare changes.

The Portfolio in 2015/16: Looking forward

South Lakeland District Council has had significant involvement in developing partnerships with the third sector to achieve effective closer working.

Development of the active communities programme will take effect, which will take activities into isolated areas and offer more opportunity for young and old to engage socially.

Aim to encourage all local schools to run at least one session of their school council in the district council chamber. In order to promote democracy and remove the fears surrounding a council environment.

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Page 200 Item No.12f

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Heidi Halliday, Housing and Strategic Development Portfolio Holder

Portfolio summary Providing homes to meet need

Overview of function Strategies relating to development control and the Local Plan and Council Plan objective of promoting the economic well-being of the area. Working in partnership to improve the standard, availability and affordability of housing in the District to meet local needs, championing these issues at national, regional and sub-regional level. Working with key partners with regards to welfare reforms.

Key policies, plans and strategies  Spatial Planning/Local Plan  Housing Strategy  Choice Based Lettings Allocation Policy  Discretionary Benefit and Rate Relief Policies

Key areas of responsibility  Strategic Housing and delivery  Benefit Administration  Council Tax Collection  NNDR Collection  Fraud

The Portfolio in 2015/16: Looking back

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided against each action, see tables below:

Page 201 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios The council will help deliver new affordable and open market housing through private sector led developments across the district

1. Provide political guidance and support to First tranche of development briefs adopted. the production of development briefs and the Stakeholder events and issues and options We will continue to work Council's housing investment programmes. consultation held on phase 2 briefs. Staff re-in forced with private housing and re-organised.to deliver Phase 3 briefs. developers to maximise 2. Build and maintain relationships with the Ongoing close working with Housing Associations and delivery of new market RSL operating in the District. South Lakeland Housing in particular on right to buy and affordable homes on replacement. allocated housing sites, 3. Provide political representation in the Ongoing engagement through Cumbria Housing including the creation of Council's engagement processes with the Partnership, through Portfolio Holder adviser group. 1000 new affordable development industry, promoting homes for rent from the understanding of for example, development Ongoing liaison with the development industry over period 2014-2025

Page 202 Page and housing policy and the CIL, and seeking Development Management policies and updated input to policy and strategy review. viability and CIL evidence. We will continue the 1. Provide political guidance and support to Issues and Options consultation on Development preparation of the production of the Development Management Policies completed January 2016. Development Management Policies DPD. Published policies due to be consulted upon in Management Policies in autumn 2016. 2015. We will review and Environment and update our environmental People standards that help 2. Ensure the political ambitions for greener Ambitions for greener development to be incorporated people to improve their development is addressed in the policies. within policies as far as is consistent with Government homes and help builders policies, viability considerations and maintaining to build environmentally affordable housing delivery. sustainable new homes.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Provide political guidance and support to Adoption likely to be June 2016 due to major changes Economic Growth Town the production of the Housing Strategy arising out of the 2015 budget, and changes to Centres and Small affordable housing likely in the Housing and Planning Businesses We will work with other Bill (including Starter Homes). local authorities to help 2. Represent the Council in Cumbrian, Representation at Cumbria Housing Group and deliver housing needs regional and national housing forums which Cumbria Planning Group including barn influence housing policy and delivery: conversions, self-build - Cumbria Housing group SLDC is member of North West Housing Forum. and green build initiatives. - North West housing Forum Annual conference due in October 2016. We are planning for an - National representatives up to date with ageing population and needs from SL Lobbying Government through Cumbria Housing policy for new homes in Group. small rural settlements. 3. Ensure new 'ways and means' are explored Housing Delivery Options Study Procurement well Health and Wellbeing We are encourage a by the Council in how it supports housing advanced and consultants due to be appointed

Page 203 Page range of housing to allow delivery e.g. Community Land Trusts imminently. Study to report in May 2016. our young people to stay and attract new young people to the area and 4. Commence work on the new Local Plan Commencement due July 2017. Evidence base keep them here. requirements currently being assessed including scoping for Objectively Assessed Need assessment.

We will continue to use 1. Provide political guidance and support to Will be developed through Housing Delivery Options our resources, from the the establishment of programmes of financial Study and revised Housing Strategy. New Homes Bonus and support to new housing schemes. Second Homes Fund, to help build affordable housing and to support locally important projects. The quality and condition of private sector housing will be improved and the number of empty homes reduced

3 1. Ensure the outcomes and impact of the Continued close working with National Landlord We will promote the accreditation scheme is understood by Association. Co-operation between Housing Landlord Accreditation members in improving the conditions of Standards and Housing Options team on future of Scheme to help raise the private rented property and is implemented Social Lettings scheme. standard of privately rented homes. We will continue to work with owners and housing providers to bring empty homes back into use. Page 204 Page

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. Establish the political response to the Continued liaison with and support for National Parks We will continue to lobby outcome of the SCA submission. on tackling this issue. government to challenge high levels of second home ownership in some 2. Consider alternative approaches and Continued liaison with and support for National Parks areas of the district. develop partner support for resultant actions on tackling this issue.

1. Ensure the outcomes and impacts of the Participating in Cumbria wide initiative on enabling SLDC schemes are understood by members. people to take advantage of ECO scheme. We will help householders Central Heating scheme due to commence Environment and with advice about energy imminently. People saving initiatives. 2. Provide political guidance and support to Ongoing. the officer review of schemes The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment Page 205 Page Through the preparation 1. Provide political guidance on the ambition First tranche of development briefs adopted. Environment and of Development Briefs, we for the Council's role in managing outcomes Stakeholder events and issues and options People from development consultation held on phase 2 briefs. Staff re-in forced will encourage the highest Health and Wellbeing and re-organised.to deliver Phase 3 briefs. standards for new developments. They will 2. Develop and inform Member understanding Ongoing. Economic Growth, demonstrate quality and of approach, via PH reports, Cllr briefings, Town Centres and sustainability in their Overview and Scrutiny etc. Small Businesses preparation, planning and operation. Culture and Arts Through a Sustainable Budget DFG audit under way and nearing completion. Will We will implement a new inform changes to the DFG process. Disabled Facilities Grants policy that delivers improved value for money

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios We will work in South Lakeland Credit Union now operational: partnership to support the http://www.southlakelandcu.org.uk/DEMO establishment of a Credit

Union in South Lakeland, to broaden people’s financial choices 1. Income collection targets monitored and Collections are a little behind previous years at the reported end of January, however the impact of increase numbers of Households and Business paying over 12 months will account for some of reduction. In addition the impact of Decembers flooding wasn't reflected in these figures. 2. Developments for Universal credit reported There has been little progress with the role out of Page 206 Page as required Universal Credit. As at 14th Jan for just over 197,000 claims were in payment. Of which 1/3rd were in employment and 2/3rds not. Transfer of claimants remains slow however this may pick up in 2016/17 with the roll-out of the digital service. However it should be noted that no dates have been provided for Job Centres within South Lakeland. Ensure effective 3. Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) The transfer to the single investigation service took Revenues and Benefits transfer arrangements for: place. The new arrangements are working well with service is fit for purpose: - Fraud South Lakelands own dedicated officer. New streams of Fraud investigation work have been undertaken apart from Housing Benefit/Council tax Support cases.

- Benefits Roll out of Universal Credit much slower than anticipated. Total case load numbers in South Lakeland are still below 90 claims. Therefore the impact on the housing benefit caseload continues to be minimal. Full roll out including pensioners could be as late as 2025.There has been little progress with the role out of Universal Credit. Transfer of claimants remains slow however this may pick up in 2016/17 with the roll-out of the digital service. However it should be noted that no dates have been provided for 6 Job Centres within South Lakeland.

The Portfolio in 2016/17: Looking forward

Page 207 Page Preparation of the next Local Plan is scheduled to commence in 2017 and the current land allocations plan, the Statement of Community Involvement, the emerging Development Management Policies, the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Community Infrastructure Levy the Kendal Town Centre Master Plan will all form a firm foundation on which to take the strategic planning of the District to the next stage.

A new South Lakeland Housing Strategy will be published in 2016 as well as a revised Older Persons Hosing Strategy which will link with the new Cumbria Housing Strategy.

A Cumbria Housing Statement will be devised in 2016 to replace the old Cumbria Housing Strategy published in 2011.

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Page 208 Item No.12g

South Lakeland District Council Council

31 March 2016

EXECUTIVE REPORT – END OF YEAR 2015/16

REPORT FROM: Cllr Jonathan Brook, Innovation and Improvement Portfolio Holder

Portfolio summary Ensuring we are equipped to provide the best, most cost effective services

Overview of function: The Council Plan objectives in relation to quality of service and high performance culture and improved customer engagement and communication.

Key policies, plans and strategies • Customer Charter and Contact Strategy • Performance Management • Procurement Strategy • IT/Information/E Government Strategy • Asset Management Strategy

Key areas of responsibility • Customer Services • Innovation and Savings programme • Performance Management • Procurement • Insurance and Risk Management • IT Services • Asset Management

The Portfolio in 2015/16: looking back

To review the portfolio actions to date, the Portfolio Plan has been used and an end of year update provided against actions, see tables below:

Page 209 PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

The council and its communities will enhance and protect the district’s high quality environment 1. Examine priority assets that the council Ongoing, although the retendering process is impacting needs to invest – 10 year asset on progress. This should improve once the outcome of maintenance programme, connected to the the tender exercise is moved forward. capital programme

Asset Management – Addressing the future 2. Grange Lido, Berners Site and the External funding has been secured to look at the Culture and Arts need of the: promenade at Grange – provide business Grange Lido and the opportunities for investment in the case for key existing assets. List of other asset and surrounding area. This work is to be areas/opportunities are there for investment commissioned shortly. There is market interest in the Berners site, but we will await the outcome of the Lido study before putting forward any composite recommendations. Page 210 Page 1. Provide political guidance on the Ongoing. Coronation Hall is underway and other Where there is an opportunities for community asset transfer. opportunities will be explored. appetite and sound rationale, we will seek 2. Encourage local communities to consider Project continues to progress although some delay in opportunities to the options for asset and service transfer. getting approvals from other stakeholders and the devolve services and Eg: funding of the conversion of the Town Hall is also the transfer or sell local - Ulverston Town Hall disposal and move to subject of further discussions with SLDC. assets to town and Coronation Hall parish councils and - Ulverston Community Enterprise (UCE) – community groups. asset transfer of Coronation Hall

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Through our community leaders 1. Quarterly performance reporting of Council Plan measures of Success

Q3 reported to Overview and Scrutiny Performance Sub Committee and Cabinet.

2. Reporting Benchmarking data There have been several meetings of Overview and highlighting our progress against our Scrutiny and the Performance Sub Committee. A nearest Neighbours to O&S & Cabinet special workshop has been held to develop new ideas and there has been regular dialogue about how Our elected Members improvements can be made, some of these have

Page 211 Page will monitor delivery of already been implemented and others are being the council plan and investigated. its measures of 3. Review of the Performance Management Council Plan Scorecards (Economy, Environment, All Portfolios success through its Framework annually Health and Wellbeing and Housing) presented to Cabinet and Overview Overview and Scrutiny Performance Sub Committee Scrutiny Committees and Cabinet covering Q3 period. Published in line with Performance Management Framework. A performance page in SharePoint has been created to capture the performance data currently held in word documents. This SharePoint page allows all the data to be exported as a spreadsheet for the purposes of linking to the website. 4. Review of Corporate risks and reporting Council Plan Scorecards (Economy, Environment, mitigating sections to SMT and O&S Health and Wellbeing and Housing) and corresponding annually Strategic Risks to be presented to Overview and Scrutiny Performance Sub Committee and Cabinet covering Q4 on 25 April 2016 and 27 April 2016 respectively following annual review in March 2016.

3 1. Set up Member working group of Cabinet The Flood recovery work has delayed the initial meeting and CCC Local Committee Members and of Cabinet and Local Committee Members. However provide strategic direction on the Councils the Council is working closely with Cumbria County Members across both long term vision and priorities for the area Council in the Community Recovery Group and this the district council and work will be taken forward as part of the joint working county council will arrangements. work collaboratively to 2. Host a policy development and planning This day will be planned for the spring. deliver joint projects day with CCC LC to discuss ways of All portfolios and activity so that working jointly on priorities for the area duplication of work is reduced and 3. Report on outcomes to Members of O&S Some progress has been made on collaborative work, efficiencies gained and SMT to ensure outcomes considered as but there has been some slippage on the proposed part of the new Council Plan development plans. That being said the recent flooding event has for 2016/17 provided plenty of practical opportunities for joint working to be delivered.

Page 212 Page

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Through improved customer engagement and communication 1. As Member sponsor for the Digital The procurement process has been completed and Through our Innovation Programme Board provide assessed. A report outlining the business case will be Customer Contact political input and support ensuring the presented to Cabinet in March and to Eden District Strategy we will board is focussed on improving access to Council in April. embrace new services for customers technology to improve 2. Provide Members with progress reports Ongoing. access to services for and briefings on outcomes achieved (O&S, our customers Cabinet & Council) through the channel

of their choice and 3. Look after the member interface with A joint digital project board was set up with Eden create opportunities Eden District Council to manage the procurement of the for increased digital platform. Once this process is complete and the efficiencies. business case approved it will oversee the

Page 213 Page Customers will have implementation phase of the project. access to services 4. Ensure that all communications with Digital Editors will development the website, ensuring 24/7 through our stakeholders when writing for the web consistent easy access to services. They are currently website. provides easy access and understanding of being recruited within the organisation. services provided

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios 1. As Member sponsor for the Digital The Digital Innovation Programme Board has stated to Innovation Programme Board provide meet on a regular basis and initial challenge has been political guidance and support ensuring the provided to ensure the objectives of the project are on board is focussed on being transparent and course to be delivered. that easy to information the council holds is

easily available.

2. As Member sponsor for the Digital Innovation Programme Board provide The Customer Connect project as it has become The council will political input and support ensuring the known, represents the biggest project ever undertaken

Page 214 Page continue to strive to board is focussed on managing the councils by SLDC. The project has been in the planning stage be an open and data through sound policies and procedures for some time and it is only this year that it has become transparent for retaining and disposing of data, data much more clearly defined. The board has started to organisation, where security and data sharing with key partners meet on a regular basis and the tendering process has Environment & people feel valued and organisations commenced. The project will become much more high People Portfolio and encouraged to profile in subsequent years. share new ideas

3. Provide Members with progress reports and briefings on outcomes achieved Regular Portfolio Holder Reports have been produced for Council and Overview and Scrutiny Committee, both using updated formats to improve clarity. A number of specific briefings have also been delivered.

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios

1. Use Customer satisfaction data as a tool Preparation of the Quality of Life Survey is underway to drive improvements through the services: and will be distributed to a random sample of households in early March. The analysis and outcomes - Report as part of the quarterly monitoring will be reported in early Summer. of council performance the outcomes from Our customer the Quality of Life Survey feedback will continue The Customer Contact Strategy reflects the direction to be used to inform the Customer Connect Programme is taking. The and improve service 2. Ensure the Customer Contact Strategy is Programme is being defined and scoped based on the delivery reviewed during the Digital Innovation strategy. This will constantly be monitored and reviewed Programme to reflect new ways of working once the implementation of the digital platform and to allow customer feedback to be built commences. During the implementation phase into the new modules built into system customer consultation and feedback will be key to the development of digital services.

Page 215 Page Through a sustainable budget 1. Report on procurement performance to Annual update will be reported to O&S 22nd March SMT quarterly and annually to O&S and 2016 alongside the refreshed Sustainable Procurement Cabinet & Commissioning Strategy 2016-19. Whilst working within As above. regulations our 2. Report on performance monitoring of Sustainable contracts to SMT quarterly and annually to Procurement & O&S and Cabinet Promoting South Commissioning Refreshed Sustainable Procurement & Commissioning Lakeland Strategy will give Strategy updated to reflect legislative changes, the more support to local 3. Provide the political guidance and Council Plan and the National Procurement Strategy in organisations in support to ensure the update of the Local Government. The draft Strategy will be reported tendering for work Sustainable Procurement & Commissioning to O&S on 22nd March, Cabinet on 23rd March and strategy reflects the councils vision and Council on 31st March. encompasses any legislative changes

PH Focus Action End of year update Links to other Portfolios Council’s Budget 2016/17 – 2019/20 approved 24 1. Provide political guidance and support February 2016 with a balanced budget for 2016/17. that reflects the Cabinets long term strategic The budget includes a schedule of approved savings for Through the Medium direction of council priorities in the 2016/17 onwards. There is still a projected deficit from Term Financial Plan, development of organisational savings 2017/18 onwards: the Savings Working Group will meet invest to save projects including the budget as part of the saving Promoting South during 2016/17 to identify savings proposals for April will achieve working group Lakeland efficiencies and 2017 onwards. generate income 2. Report progress and achievements Quarterly Financial Monitoring reports to Cabinet and through a monitoring report to O&S & Council detailed budget variances, including savings. Cabinet

Page 216 Page