Public Document Pack
Meeting of: Council Date: Wednesday, 13th December, 2017 Time: 6.15 pm. Venue: Council Chamber - Rochdale Town Hall
This agenda gives notice of items to be considered in private as required by Regulations 5 (4) and (5) of The Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012.
Item AGENDA Page No. No 1. MAYORS COMMUNICATIONS 2. APOLOGIES To receive any apologies for absence.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Members are required to declare any disclosable pecuniary, personal or personal and prejudicial interests they may have and the nature of those interests relating to items on this agenda and/or indicate if S106 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 applies to them.
4. MINUTES 7 - 11 To authorise the signing of the minutes of the meetings of the Council held on 5th October 2017 and 11th October 2017.
5. PUBLIC QUESTIONS AND PETITIONS To receive petitions and questions from members of the public, where these have been received in accordance with the Petitions Scheme and/or Council Procedure Rules.
6. NOTICES OF MOTION The Council is asked to consider the following three Motions that have
been submitted in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 10:
a) It will be Moved by Councillor Kelly and seconded by Councillor Davidson that:
"This council has no confidence in the Leader of the Council and calls for him to step down and resign his position until such time that the findings of the IICSA are made public."
b) It will be Moved by Councillor O’Rourke and seconded by Councillor Meredith that:
“This Council notes with alarm the continuing crisis of social care underfunding that makes it hard for local authorities and provider organisations to ensure decent jobs and quality services.
This Council supports in principle the provisions of UNISON’s Ethical & Residential care charters. The Council intends to implement the charters at the earliest practicable opportunity, recognising that some aspects of the charters may require additional funding.
This Council welcomes the additional short term funding that the government pledged for social care in the 2017 budget but notes that this does not go far enough and does not represent a sustainable solution.
This Council welcomes UNISON’s Care Workers for Change campaign initiative which aims to expand union membership within the sector to give care workers the support and confidence to lead the public-facing campaign to increase central government funding, improve employee relations and raise standards within the sector.
This Council resolves to encourage those care providers that we currently commission or purchase provision from and to require those care providers that we commission or purchase provision from in future to:-
1) Respect the right of care staff to organise a union in their workplace and do nothing to undermine the reasonable efforts of staff to organise a union.
2) Allow access to accredited union representatives and officials for membership recruitment activity. Provider organisations should engage positively with union requests for access to staff and, where necessary, agree arrangements that do not disrupt service delivery
3) Pursue a partnership approach to employment relations. We would expect the provider to engage constructively with the union including a recognition and facilities agreement to underpin collective working.
4) Work with the providers and unions to pursue our shared objective of achieving the provisions of the UNISON Ethical and Residential Care Charters The Council will write to all current providers of council- commissioned care services at the earliest opportunity to advise them of our expectation that they will comply positively with the above points (1-4). These principles will be enshrined in our future commissioning processes and procedures.
c) It will be Moved by Councillor Brett and seconded by Councillor Rush that:
This council notes that Universal Credit, the single monthly payment which replaces the six current working age benefits, is to be fully implemented in Rochdale Borough on February 14th 2018.
This council also notes that, within our area, the number of people who will be affected by these changes is likely to be in the tens of thousands.
Rochdale Council notes with concern that the move to a Full Service Universal Credit in other parts of the country has caused considerable financial hardship for many of those people moving onto this new system of benefit payments. Before a full role out of Universal credit the following problems need to be addressed:
• The six week wait for claimants to receive their benefits. The idea that all workers are in jobs where they are paid a month in arrears ignores the reality for the 1.5m workers who struggle on zero hours, insecure jobs or forced self-employment. Claimants need to be paid from day one.
• Payments going to one named member of a household. Many claimants struggle to budget and payments should be paid to the separate claimants within a household and on a fortnightly rather than monthly basis. With the present policy there is a real danger that if the whole benefit goes to one named individual there is no guarantee that the money will be distributed fairly within the household.
• Claimants need to have their rent paid directly to landlords to avoid the unacceptably high levels of arrears and homelessness that have occurred in the areas where UC already exists. Pushing claimants into debt adds to the stress and insecurity for claimants.
• An end to benefit sanctions as there is no evidence that sanctioning helps people into work. In fact taking away claimant’s ability to feed themselves and their families prevents them from focusing on finding employment as they are too busy trying to survive. The evidence of the harm that sanctions cause is growing – they are an unnecessary cruelty in our benefits system.
• Allow all new claimants to apply for Universal credit in jobs centres with the support of trained job centre staff. Forcing new claimant to apply on-line causes real problems for many people who don’t have either access or the IT skills to cope with the complex online application. The use of a paid helpline also needs to be abandoned as claimants cannot afford the expensive rates charged. The planned job centre closures also needs to be reversed as claimants need face to face support to help them back into work and to deal with the complexity of Universal Credit.
• Abandon the in-work conditionality for part-time or low paid workers – the idea that there are extra hours or higher paid work for the large numbers of these affected workers is simply not the case. This clause of UC places the emphasis on individuals who often want greater number of hours of work – and not on the employers who benefit from short hours and insecurity.
• The overall level that UC is funded needs to be urgently increased. The rate at which some claimants will lose benefit is set at 63p in the pound which when compared with the top rate of income tax of 45% on incomes over £150,000 a year, demonstrates just how unfair UC is for the lowest income households.
This council notes with concern, therefore, that the implementation of a Full Service Universal Credit in the borough is likely to prove seriously detrimental to the health and wellbeing of thousands of its local residents.
Rochdale Council therefore resolves to:
Request all its political group leaders to jointly write to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions asking that the system of Universal Credit is redesigned in such a way that it removes the inherent risks that this council has expressed its concerns over.
7. CABINET RECOMMENDATIONS: (a) Savings Programme 2018/19 to 2019/20 and Discretionary 12 - 27 Fees and Charges 2018/19 - Update following consultation (b) Calculation of the Council Tax Base for 2018/19 28 - 35 (c) Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Levy Allocation 36 - 71 Methodology Agreement (d) Manchester Airport Group (MAG) Strategic Investment 72 - 78 To consider providing financial support to the Manchester Airport Group (MAG) transformation programme.
(e) Capital Programme Prudential Borrowing Requirement 79 - 80 8. MEMBERS' QUARTERLY REPORTS To receive quarterly reports from Members of the Cabinet, Chairs of Township Committees and Chairs of Overview and Scrutiny Committees and to permit questions from Members of the Council.
(a) The Leader of the Council 81 - 84 (b) The Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources 85 - 88 (c) The Cabinet Member for Housing & Environment 89 - 99 (d) The Cabinet Member for Business, Skills & Employment 100 - 102 (e) The Cabinet Member for Children's Services 103 - 105 (f) The Cabinet Member for Adult Care 106 - 107 (g) The Cabinet Member for Planning & Development 108 - 110 (h) The Cabinet Member for Health & Wellbeing 111 - 113 (i) The Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Community & 114 - 118 Culture (j) The Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee 119 - 121 (k) The Chair of the Communities, Regeneration & Environment 122 - 124 Overview and Scrutiny Committee (l) The Chair of the Health, Schools and Care Overview and 125 - 127 Scrutiny Committee (m) The Chair of Heywood Township Committee 128 - 130 (n) The Chair of Middleton Township Committee 131 - 134 (o) The Chair of Pennines Township Committee 135 - 137 (p) The Chair of Rochdale Township Committee 138 - 141 9. REPRESENTATIVES ON JOINT AUTHORITIES AND OUTSIDE BODIES To permit questions to representatives on any Joint Authority or Outside Body, where received.
(a) Report of the Representative to the Armed/Reserve Forces 142 (b) Report of a Representative to Transport for Greater 143 - 146 Manchester 10. DECISIONS TAKEN UNDER SPECIAL URGENCY PROVISIONS 147 - 148 To receive details of urgent executive decisions taken by the Chief Executive.
11. GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY 149 - 179 To consider the minutes of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meetings held on 29th September 2017 and 29th October 2017.
For more information about this meeting, please contact Elaine Newsome Governance and Committee Services Officer 01706 924793 [email protected] Agenda Item 4
COUNCIL
MINUTES OF MEETING Thursday, 5 October 2017
PRESENT: His Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor Ian Duckworth in the Chair; Councillors Iftikhar Ahmed, Shakil Ahmed, Daalat Ali, Sultan Ali, Blundell, Butterworth, Dearnley, Dutton, Neil Emmott, Susan Emmott, Farnell, Furlong, Hartley, Heakin, Hornby, Howard, Hussain, Malcolm, Martin, Meredith, Mir, Nickson, O'Neill, O'Rourke, Paolucci-Escobar, Rashid, Smith, Sullivan, Wazir, West, Winkler and Zaman
OFFICERS: David Wilcock, Assistant Director Legal, Governance and Workforce Elaine Newsome, Head of Governance Danny Brierley, Head of Communications Dorothy Johnstone, Civic and Ceremonial Manager Richard Hall, Mayors Officer Katie Gee – Communications Officer
ALSO IN ATTENDANCE: Miss Julie Goodyear MBE, Mayoress Christine Duckworth and honoured guests
21. MAYORS WELCOME On behalf of the Council, the Mayor welcomed Miss Julie Goodyear MBE and her guests to the meeting.
22. ADMITTANCE OF AN HONORARY FREEWOMAN OF THE BOROUGH
It was MOVED by Councillor Richard Farnell, seconded by Councillor Ashley Dearnley and supported by Councillor Ray Dutton:
That we, the Mayor and Councillors of the Borough of Rochdale, pursuant to Section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972, RESOLVE to hereby admit Miss Julie Goodyear MBE to be an Honorary Freewoman of the Metropolitan Borough of Rochdale, in recognition of the eminent services rendered to the Borough, with particular regard to her charitable works and contribution to the arts and entertainment.
On being put to the vote, the Mayor declared the motion to be carried and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY.
Page 7 COUNCIL
MINUTES OF MEETING Wednesday, 11th October 2017
PRESENT: Councillor Ian Duckworth (Chair); Councillors Ali Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shakil Ahmed, Daalat Ali, Sultan Ali, Bell, Beswick, Cecile Biant, Surinder Biant, Blundell, Boriss, Brett, Butterworth, Clegg, Davidson, Dearnley, Dutton, Neil Emmott, Susan Emmott, Emsley, Farnell, Furlong, Hartley, Heakin, Holly, Hornby, Howard, Hussain, Kelly, Malcolm, McCarthy, Mir, Nickson, O'Neill, O'Rourke, Paolucci-Escobar, Rashid, Robinson, Rowbotham, Rush, Sheerin, Smith, Stott, Sullivan, Wardle, Wazir, West, Peter Williams, Winkler, Zaheer and Zaman
OFFICERS: S. Rumbelow (Chief Executive), A. Fallon (Director of Public Health & Wellbeing), N. Thornton (Director of Resources), D. Bowler (Assistant Director – Place), S. Bowness (Assistant Director – Early Help & Schools), V. Bradshaw (Chief Finance Officer), E. Newsome (Head of Governance), D. Brierley (Head of Communications), M. Brooks (Communications Officer) and M. Garraway (Senior Governance & Committee Officer).
ALSO IN ATTENDANCE: six members of public.
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillor Brosnan, Councillor Burke, Councillor Cocks, Councillor James Gartside, Councillor Joinson, Councillor Martin, Councillor Meredith and Councillor Williams
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 23 There were no declarations of interest.
MINUTES 24 RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting of Council held on 12th July 2017 be approved and signed as a correct record.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS AND PETITIONS 25 There were no submitted questions or petitions.
NOTICES OF MOTION a) 26 Adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism
It was moved by Councillor Emsley and seconded by Councillor Dearnley that:
That this Council recognises that anti- Semitism continues to be a problem in our country and formally adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of anti- Semitisms to highlight how anti-Semitism manifests itself in the 21st century. The definition reads
Page 8 “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
Rochdale Borough has a proud history of celebrating its diversity. Any form of intolerance, hatred or discrimination such as Antisemitism has no place in or our Borough and in modern Britain.
On being put to the vote, the motion was declared to be declared to be carried and it was RESOLVED accordingly. b) Greater Manchester Police funding
It was moved by Councillor Brett and seconded by Councillor Sultan Ali that:
This Council notes with grave concern that in the past 12 months in Greater Manchester – There has been a 30 per cent increase in victim based crime, which includes violent crime, domestic abuse and sexual offences. Domestic abuse has increased 63 per cent and sexual offences have seen a 44 per cent increase. Hate crime has increased by 53 per cent. Violent crime has increased by 60 per cent with an increase of 24 per cent in those violent offences involving injury. Burglary has increased by 19 per cent and robbery by 54 per cent.
This appalling increase in the crime rate can be directly attributed to the cuts in funding by central government. Greater Manchester Police has lost £180M in police funding since 2010. This has led to a significant decrease in police numbers- In 2010, there were 8,148 police and 842 PCSO’s patrolling Greater Manchester’s streets. By March of last year the number of police officers had been slashed by 23 per cent to just 6,297 – far more than the national average. The number of PCSOs fell by 11 per cent to 748.
The Borough of Rochdale has lost around 200 police officers as a result of these cuts in central government funding This Council instructs the Chief Executive to write to the Home Secretary to demand the government provide adequate resources to provide a properly funded Greater Manchester Police service to restore Police numbers; keep residents safe and able to respond to the increasing demands and threats our communities face.
On being put to the vote, the motion was declared to be declared to be carried and it was RESOLVED accordingly. c) Declaration on Healthy Weight
Page 9 It was moved by Councillor Beswick and seconded by Councillor Zaheer that:
This Council notes: That unhealthy weight is a public health problem. Poor diet during early life can adversely affect health in later life People living in socially deprived areas are more likely to suffer from health problems The greater availability and access to foods and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt which are increasing eaten outside the home contributing to excess energy intake.
This Council welcomes: The opportunity to lead local action to prevent obesity The opportunity to protect some of the most vulnerable in society by giving children the best start in life and enabling all children, young people and families to make informed choices
Rochdale Council supports the national commitment to address childhood obesity. We commit our Council to sign the Declaration on Healthy Weight to show commitment to reducing unhealthy weight in our communities, protecting the health and well-being of staff and citizens and make an economic impact on healthy and social care and the local economy.
On being put to the vote, the motion was declared to be declared to be carried and it was RESOLVED accordingly.
DECISIONS TAKEN UNDER SPECIAL URGENCY PROVISIONS 27 The Council considered a report of the Chief Executive which detailed urgent decisions taken between 13th July and 2nd October 2017, as required within the Council’s Constitution.
RESOLVED: That the reasons for urgency and decisions of the Chief Executive to approval a request to renew the lease of the Arts and Heritage Centre, at Units 3,4,5 and 6 Scotts Industrial Estate; and, approval of a request to amend Council’s constitution, Part 3 – Responsibility for Functions paragraph 2 (2), be noted.
AUDIT AND GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2016/17 28 The Council received the Audit and Governance Committee Annual Report 2016/17 in compliance with best practice as identified within the CIPFA publication ‘Audit Committee: Practical Guidance for Local Authorities and Police 2013’.
RESOLVED: That the Annual Report for 2016/17 by the Audit and Governance Committee be noted.
Page 10 MEMBERS' QUARTERLY REPORTS 29 Members presented their Quarterly Reports responding to questions and remarks from Members of the Council:- The Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Regeneration The Deputy Leader and the Cabinet Member for Corporate and Resources The Cabinet Member for Housing and Environment The Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Employment The Deputy Leader and the Cabinet Member for Children's Services The Cabinet Member for Adult Care The Cabinet Member for Planning and Development The Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing The Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Community and Culture The Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee The Chair of the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee The Chair of the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee The Chair of Heywood Township Committee The Chair of Middleton Township Committee The Chair of Pennines Township Committee The Chair of Rochdale Township Committee Report of the Representative to the Armed/Reserve Forces Report of a Representative to Transport for Greater Manchester Report of the Representative to the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority
RESOLVED: That the reports be noted.
GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY 30 The Council considered the minutes of the meetings of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority held 30th June and 28th 2017.
RESOLVED: That the Minutes be noted.
Page 11 Agenda Item 7a
Minutes of a meeting of Cabinet held on 28th November 2017
Minute BUDGET 2018/19 TO 2020/21 - POST CONSULTATION Number
69. Cabinet considered the report of the Chief Finance Officer which provided an update on the results of consultation on the proposed Savings Programme 2018/19 to 2019/20 and the results of consultation on the proposed Discretionary Fees and Charges for 2018/19. The report also presented a proposal to implement proposed fees and charges where possible, from 1st January 2018.
Further to the submitted report, Cabinet were advised that some additional information had been raised late in the consultation process for savings proposal NH - 2018 – 2019 - 021 and were requested to consider delegating the final decision on the proposal to the Director of Neighbourhoods in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Resources to enable consideration of the information.
The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee had been consulted on the savings proposals and discretionary fees and charges and were in support of the all the proposals detailed within the report subject to an assurance being provided that the restructure of the Planning Enforcement Team would not affect the good work which had been done by the team, specifically in relation to travellers.
Alternatives considered:
The Council was legally obliged to set a balanced revenue budget. The budget setting process was complex and must be undertaken in a planned way. Whilst budgets are prepared in accordance with the approved guidelines a number of alternative options relating to savings proposals and budget pressures were considered as part of the overall budget setting process.
Decision:
1. That the savings proposals (EC – 2018 – 2019 – 010) Review of Planning Enforcement and (NH – 2018 – 2019 – 016) Play Site Review be approved for implementation following the consultation process; 2. That the final decision on savings proposal (NH - 2018 – 2019 – 021) – ICT Review be delegated to the Director of Neighbourhoods in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Resources; 3. That a review of the administrative/finance support across the Town Hall and Number 1 Riverside be approved and that the revised
Page 12 proposal be considered under the Delegated Decision Making process outside the budget process; 4. That the outsourcing of the Arboricultural Services and the workforce matters being decoupled and reviewed once the procurement process is underway be approved; 5. That the £50 fee for residents parking permits (reference R0836) be removed as a charge; 6. That the proposed changes to all other discretionary fees and charges be approved and to recommend to Council for approval with those fees and charges as detailed at Appendix 1 to the report being implemented from 1st January 2018 where possible.
Reason for decision:
Cabinet are required to recommend a balanced Revenue Budget for 2018/19 to Budget Council and provisional budgets for 2019/20 and 2020/21. The Council is required to set a balanced budget for 2018/19 by 11th March 2018
Page 13 Report to Corporate O&S Committee and to Cabinet
Date of Meeting 21st November 2017 (Corporate O&S) 28th November 2017 (Cabinet) Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources Report Author Tracey Bland Public/Private Document Public
Savings Programme 2018/19 to 2019/20 and Discretionary Fees and Charges 2018/19 – Update Following Consultation
Executive Summary
1. This report provides Members with:
An update on the results of consultation on the proposed Savings Programme 2018/19 to 2019/20.
An update on the results of consultation on the proposed Discretionary Fees and Charges for 2018/19.
The proposal to implement the proposed fees and charges where possible from 1st January 2018.
Recommendation
2.1 It is recommended that Cabinet:
Approve savings proposals: Review of Planning Enforcement, ICT Review and Play Site Review following consultation.
Approve a review of the administration/finance support across the Town Hall and Number 1 Riverside and that the revised proposal is considered under the Delegated Decision Making process outside the budget process.
Consider the savings proposal reduction in booking, admin and finance support across Town Hall and Number 1 Riverside be withdrawn and delivered once a review of the service has been undertaken.
Approve the outsourcing of the Arboricultural Services, and that the
Page 14 workforce matters be decoupled and reviewed once the procurement process is underway.
The £50 fee for residents parking permits (reference R0836) be removed.
The proposed changes to all other discretionary fee and charge levels be approved and to recommend to Council that where possible the fees and charges as detailed at Appendix 1 are implemented from 1st January 2018.
Reason for Recommendation
3.1 Cabinet are required to recommend a balanced Revenue Budget for 2018/19 to Budget council and provisional budgets for 2019/20 and 2020/21. The Council is required to set a balanced budget for 2018/19 by 11th March 2018.
Key Points for Consideration
4.1 Savings Programme 2018/19 to 2019/20
4.1.1 Cabinet 14th September decided that:
The identified Savings Proposals not requiring Service consultation be approved.
The Workforce Savings Proposals requiring consultation be determined as follows:
4.1.2 Consultation on the Workforce Savings Proposals began on 18th September 2017 and ended on 1st November 2017. The outcome of the consultation is summarised as follows:
Page 15 4.2 Discretionary Fees and Charges 2018/19 4.2.1 Cabinet 14th September 2017 decided that consultation be undertaken on the proposed discretionary fees and charges for 2018/19. 4.2.2 Middleton Township on 28th September 2017 recommended that the £50 fee for residents parking permits (reference R0836) be removed and that Cabinet be advised accordingly. 4.2.3 Cabinet to consider the implementation of the fees and charges where possible from 1st January 2018. This will enable additional income to be generated for the Council. 4.2.4 There have been no further recommended amendments to the proposed Discretionary Fees and Changes for 2018/19 made during the consultation process. 4.3 Alternatives Considered 4.3.1 The Council is legally obliged to set a balanced revenue budget. The budget setting process is complex and must be undertaken in a planned way. Whilst budgets are prepared in accordance with the approved guidelines a number of alternative options relating to savings proposals and budget pressures are considered as part of the overall budget setting process. 4.3.2 Savings Proposals Consideration was given to a number of options in putting forward the savings
Page 16 proposals contained in the report to Cabinet 14th September 2017 and the report outlined any alternatives. To do nothing was not considered to be an option as the Council is legally required to set a balanced budget.
Cabinet Members could decide not to implement these proposals and provide alternative options to enable a balanced budget to be achieved. 4.3.3 Discretionary Fees and Charges - the alternative is not to review or increase our fees and charges. This would potentially reduce the income available to the Council and make it more difficult to achieve a balanced budget.
Costs and Budget Summary
5.1 The removal of the £50 fee for residents parking permits (reference R0836) will result in a reduction of income of £5k in 2018/19.
Risk and Policy Implications
6.1 Savings Proposals
6.1.1 The Council is required to set a lawful budget for 2018/19 by the by 11th March 2018 and there is a risk if we do not responsibly put forward proposals for consideration to meet the budget reductions/pressures.
6.1.2 Risk implications have been added where applicable within individual detailed reports. To manage this risk we have sought to supply Cabinet members with copies of all available implications to make informed decisions.
6.1.3 Where relevant, specific legal issues have been identified in the individual savings proposal reports. Legal advice has also been provided in relation to the Equality Act duties, and recent case law decisions on both consultation requirements and equality impact assessments.
6.1.4 Advice has been provided on the following:
The need to ensure that service reductions do not constitute a failure on the part of the Council to fulfill statutory duties. The need to be aware of contractual arrangements with third parties which can only be varied by agreement or which (if that does not prove possible) can only be terminated by substantial notice periods and consider the financial implications of any variations. The need to be aware of restrictions which affect property assets. Some have restrictions on usage, some have conditions attached to gifts and planning restrictions might apply. On this last aspect, there needs to be separation of the Council’s statutory role from that of property owner. Some proposals may ultimately involve the transfer of staff with the resultant need to undertake statutory consultations. Some proposals will involve potential redundancy. This will involve
Page 17 statutory consultations. Advice on contractual, procurement law matters (including staff related matters).
6.1.5 The personnel implications arising for the proposals contained within this report summarised below;
Some of these proposals will/may result in a reduction in the number of established posts within the Council and depending on the outcome of consultation and final decisions made, these will be deleted as a consequence of these proposals. The Council will apply its established policies and procedures to identify which posts are identified as potentially redundant and which employees will be at risk of redundancy. This will include the application of the Council’s redundancy selection criteria where this would need to be applied. Where posts proposed to be deleted are occupied the employee(s) concerned will become at risk of redundancy. All employees affected will be provided with support through the Council’s established procedures for dealing with staff that are at risk of redundancy. Through the application of these policies and procedures, the Council will seek to minimize the number of employees who may be compulsory redundant. In this respect, the Council will seek to provide suitable alternative employment wherever this is possible and will seek to achieve reductions by voluntary measures wherever possible, by seeking volunteers for early retirement/voluntary redundancy in areas where staff are affected by the proposals.
6.1.6 The proposals have been subject to full consultation with staff and trade unions in line with statutory requirements. It is considered that the total number of jobs affected during the budget setting process is likely to be below 100. However, to ensure sufficient consultation takes place the Council is preparing to comply with the statutory minimum consultation period of 45 days (which is required where there is to be 100 or more redundancies as opposed to the 30 days required when 20 to 99 redundancies) before making final decisions on its proposals. In addition, the Council will also ensure that the consultation process is meaningful and commences when potential redundancies are contemplated, that full consideration is given to the outcome and any comments received before final decisions are made regarding implementation, which are also legal requirements. 6.1.7 Redundancy situation
If there is a genuine redundancy situation then RBC will need to follow a fair procedure. It is anticipated that there will be consultation obligations with the trade
Page 18 unions before a decision on whether to make redundancies is made. Once the decision is made to “propose” redundancies (no final decision should be made and RBC should remain open to alternative proposals) the first issue will be to establish the appropriate redundancy pool. If a particular function/team is closing then the pool may be obvious. Otherwise the pool should consist of all of the team of employees (or whatever the applicable job title is) whose roles are “interchangeable”. There should be no distinguishing between full-time and part-time or fixed- term workers. Upon the pool being identified there will be a need to engage in a consultation exercise. Consultation should be meaningful and will usually consist of an initial group meeting followed by individual consultation meetings. The redundancies should remain a proposal at this stage and RBC should remain open to alternative suggestions. The option of voluntary redundancy should be made available to employees before compulsory redundancies are made. The selection criteria should be devised and also subject to the consultation process. All individuals should then be scored against the criteria and recommendations for redundancy made. Those individuals selected should then be invited to a meeting to discuss their scores and potentially challenge before a final decision is made. In the event that any employee who is on maternity leave is selected for redundancy then they should be given priority for any suitable alternative employment (SAE). Once the potential redundant employees are selected RBC should consider whether suitable alternative employment is available or not. It would be advisable to send vacancy lists from the beginning of the consultation period. Posts at the same or a more junior level should be considered and no presumptions made as to whether an employee would consider it suitable or not. SAE should be considered up until the date that notice to terminate expires. The outcome of consultations will be reported to Members of the relevant Committees to allow for full consideration of feedback and final decisions will be made on the proposals taking into account the outcome of consultation.
Equalities Impacts 6.1.8 Workforce Equality Impact Assessment A workforce impact assessment will be undertaken to understand how the overall proposals affect the make-up of the workforce. The Council undertook a workforce EIA for the savings process in previous years. The same analysis will be undertaken for the cohort of staff affected by the savings proposals in 2018/19 and 2019/20. A full equalities impact assessment will be undertaken following the implementation of the savings proposals, at which point we may need to revisit our equalities action plan or
Page 19 other policies. The full workforce implications for each workforce proposal are provided in the private report provided separately on this Agenda. 6.2 Discretionary Fees and Charges 6.2.1 The Services have reviewed charges against relevant legislation to ensure that all transactions remain compliant with the relevant statutes governing Local Authority activities.
Consultation
7.1 Saving Proposals
7.1.1 Consultation on the Workforce Proposals commenced on 18th September 2017 and ended on 1st November 2017.
7.1.2 The Workforce Savings proposals were presented for consultation to : Trade Unions at the Joint Consultative Negotiation Group (JCNG) on the 15th September 2017.
Townships Committees 25th September to 4th October 2017
Corporate Overview and Scrutiny 17th October 2017
7.2 Discretionary Fees and Charges
7.2.1 All services engaged with the production of the proposed charges identified within the report. The Leadership Team, Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources, and opposition Portfolio holder for Finance were informed of the proposed charges for 2018/19. The report was presented to Townships Committees 25th September to 4th October 2017 and Corporate Overview and Scrutiny 17th October 2017
Background Papers Place of Inspection
8. Supporting papers are held within 2nd Floor, Number One Riverside, Smith the Finance Team Street, Rochdale.
For Further Information Contact: Tracey Bland, Tel: 01706 925405, [email protected]
Page 20 Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Resources
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase Notes (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£)
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
LEGAL & HR R0090 Confirmation Letter – Elect Reg – Current Year £18.00 £18.90 £0.90 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0091 Confirmation Letter – Elect Reg - Historic £39.00 £41.00 £2.00 5.13% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0092 Conf On Official Docs – to prove on Elect Reg £18.00 £18.90 £0.90 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0093 Public Path Orders:- Within Gen Range + Adv Costs £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0094 Public Path Orders:- Additional Rates £147.00 £155.00 £8.00 5.44% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0095 Street Closure:- Within A General Range £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0096 Street Closure:- Additional Rates £147.00 £155.00 £8.00 5.44% 5% increase + roundings Determined by LEGAL & HR R0097 Prosecution (Court) Costs Recovered court Page 21 Page LEGAL & HR R0098F - a Local Land Charges Search:- Full Search CON29 £135.00 £142.00 £7.00 5.19% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0098F - b Local Land Charges Search £20.00 £21.00 £1.00 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0099F Local Land Charges Search:- Part 2 Enquiries £23.00 £24.20 £1.20 5.22% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0100F Local Land Charges Search:- Additional Enquiries £30.00 £31.50 £1.50 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0101F Local Land Charges Search:- Extra Parcels Of Land £20.00 £21.00 £1.00 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0103F Local Land Charges Search:- Copy Searches £20.00 £21.00 £1.00 5.00% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0113 Sales Of Land And Property: Under £5,000 £831.00 £873.00 £42.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0114 £831.00 £873.00 5% increase + roundings £5,001 - £10,000 £42.00 5.05% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0115 £831.00 £873.00 5% increase + roundings £10,001 - £15,000 £42.00 5.05% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0116 £1,232.00 £1,294.00 5% increase + roundings £15,001 - £20,000 £62.00 5.03% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0117 £1,232.00 £1,294.00 5% increase + roundings £20,001 - £25,000 £62.00 5.03% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0118 £1,232.00 £1,294.00 5% increase + roundings £25,001 - £30,000 £62.00 5.03% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0119 £1,527.00 £1,604.00 5% increase + roundings £30,001 - £60,000 £77.00 5.04% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0120 £1,902.00 £1,998.00 5% increase + roundings £60,001 - £100,000 £96.00 5.05% Sales Of Land And Property: LEGAL & HR R0121 £2,491.00 £2,616.00 5% increase + roundings £100,001 - £250,000 £125.00 5.02% LEGAL & HR R0122 Sales Of Land And Property: Over £250,000 £3,027.00 £3,179.00 £152.00 5.02% 5% increase + roundings 4% of LEGAL & HR R0123 Auctions consideration Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Resources
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase Notes (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£)
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
LEGAL & HR R0124 Redemptions (One Per Charge) £199.00 £209.00 £10.00 5.03% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0125 Redemptions (Two Charges) £387.00 £407.00 £20.00 5.17% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0126 Mortgage Questionnaires £194.00 £204.00 £10.00 5.15% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0127 Deeds Of Postponement £237.00 £249.00 £12.00 5.06% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0128 Title Questionnaires:- Up To 20 Questions £108.00 £114.00 £6.00 5.56% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0129 Title Questionnaires:- Above 20 Questions £108.00 £114.00 £6.00 5.56% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0130 Title Questionnaires:- Per Additional Question (>20) £8.10 £9.50 £1.40 17.28% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0131 RTB Sales - Engrossments £102.00 £108.00 £6.00 5.88% 5% increase + roundings Page 22 Page LEGAL & HR R0132 Registration Fees:- Commercial £194.00 £204.00 £10.00 5.15% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0133 Registration Fees:- Private £102.00 £108.00 £6.00 5.88% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0134 Registration Fees:- Sealing Fee £69.70 £73.50 £3.80 5.45% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0135 Registration Fees:- Copies For Solicitors £69.70 £73.50 £3.80 5.45% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0136 Shop Leases £574.00 £603.00 £29.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0137 Licenses:- Community and Residential Commercial £665.00 £699.00 £34.00 5.11% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0138 Licenses:- License To Assign £949.00 £997.00 £48.00 5.06% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0139 Licenses:- License To Sublet (Multiple Licenses) £949.00 £997.00 £48.00 5.06% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0140 Deeds Of Variation, Rectification etc. £719.00 £755.00 £36.00 5.01% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0141 Surrender £719.00 £755.00 £36.00 5.01% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0142 Deeds Of Easement:- Residential £719.00 £755.00 £36.00 5.01% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0143 Deeds Of Easement:- Commercial £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0144 Agreements To Adopt Highways £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0145 Section 106 Agreements (Planning Agreements) £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0146 Section 278 Agreements (Highway Works) £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0147 Building Agreements £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0148 Leases/Premiums – Residential £691.00 £726.00 £35.00 5.07% 5% increase + roundings LEGAL & HR R0149 Industrial Leases - £1,367.00 £1,436.00 £69.00 5.05% 5% increase + roundings COMMERCIAL R0110 Copies Of Documents £0.85 £1.10 £0.25 29.41% 5% increase + roundings COMMERCIAL R0111 Charities Admin – Committee Services Meeting £31.10 £33.60 £2.50 8.04% 5% increase + roundings COMMERCIAL R1882 Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) £15.00 £15.80 £0.80 5.33% 5% increase + roundings Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Public Protection
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£) Notes
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
Maintain the current rate of charge-an AGMA comparison of fees and charges has been undertaken by the service, the Public Protection R1427 Vehicles: Annual Fee £339.00 £339.00 £0.00 0.00% current charge is the highest in AGMA and the service recommends that fee is held at its current rate. The Service will manage this pressure internally
New Charges
New charge proposed as part of Budget Scrutiny-Saving is Public Protection R1874 New - Treatment for Rats (including 2 revisits) £25.00 £40k for Rats and Mice combined New charge proposed as part of Budget Scrutiny-Saving is Public Protection R1875 New - Treatment for Mice (including 2 revisits) £25.00 £40k for Rats and Mice combined
Page 23 Page New charge proposed as part of Budget Scrutiny-Saving is Public Protection R1876 New - Food Hygiene Rescore £165.00 £4k for Rescore & Advisory Visits Public Protection R1877 New - Food hygiene Advisory Visit £79.00
Charges in line with the 2% proposed uplift (subject to roundings)
Public Protection R1107 Car Boot Sales - Fee per car £4.00 £4.10 £0.10 2.50% Public Protection R1109 Council Car Boot Sales - fee per car £4.00 £4.10 £0.10 2.50% Public Protection R1112 Administration Fee For Work In Default £44.00 £44.90 £0.90 2.05% Public Protection R1113 Information Search Fee: Minimum Charge (Up To First Hour) £95.00 £96.90 £1.90 2.00% Public Protection R1114 Information Search Fee: Each Subsequent Hour Or Part Thereof £38.00 £38.80 £0.80 2.11% Public Protection R1115 Information Search Fee: Reclamation Of Stray Dogs £99.00 £101.00 £2.00 2.02% Individual Export Certificates request with less than 5 working Public Protection R1116 £106.00 £109.00 £3.00 2.83% days notice - first hour cost Individual Export Certificate request with 5 or more working days Public Protection R1117 £60.00 £61.20 £1.20 2.00% notice Batch Certs Only Applicable In Strictly Limited Circumstances Public Protection R1118 £181.00 £185.00 £4.00 2.21% (Inc Low Risk Product And Subject To A Audit System) Grant, renewal, transfer fee for Sexual Establishment Venue Public Protection R1268 £1,516.00 £1,547.00 £31.00 2.04% (SEV) Public Protection R1269 Street Trading: - Annual Consent £906.00 £925.00 £19.00 2.10% Public Protection R1270 Street Trading: - Annual Licence £1,310.00 £1,337.00 £27.00 2.06% Street Trading: - Consent To Cover Trading At Specific Event: Up Public Protection R1271 £211.00 £216.00 £5.00 2.37% To 5 days Street Trading: - Consent To Cover Trading At Specific Event: Up Public Protection R1272 £84.00 £85.70 £1.70 2.02% To 2 days Public Protection R1273 Ear Piercing/Tattooing/Acupuncture £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Public Protection R1274 Animal Boarding £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Public Protection
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£) Notes
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
Public Protection R1275 Dog Breeding £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Public Protection R1276 Pet Shop £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 0.00% Public Protection R1277 Riding Establishment £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Public Protection R1278 Dangerous Animals £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Public Protection R1279 Grant, renewal or transfer fee for Sex Shop Establishment £1,125.00 £1,148.00 £23.00 2.04% Public Protection R1282 Licensing Pre - Application Consultation Fee £30.00 £30.60 £0.60 2.00% Public Protection R1283 Licensing Street Trading - Change Of Vehicle £54.00 £55.10 £1.10 2.04% Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1825 Scrap Metal Dealers Site Licence (grant and renewal) £688.00 £702.00 £14.00 2.03% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Page 24 Page £688.00 plus £702.00 plus Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1826 Scrap Metal Dealers Site Licence (multiple sites) £575.00 per £587.00 per £0.00 0.00% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in additional site additional site 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1827 Scrap Metal Collectors Licence (grant and renewal) £270.00 £276.00 £6.00 2.22% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Scrap Metal Licence Variation; change from collector's licence to Public Protection R1828 £688.00 £702.00 £14.00 2.03% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in site licence 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Scrap Metal Licence Variation; change from site licence to Public Protection R1829 £284.00 £290.00 £6.00 2.11% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in collector's licence 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1830 Scrap Metal Licence Variation; change of licencee's details £16.00 £16.40 £0.40 2.50% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1831 Scrap Metal Licence Variation; change licenced sites £21.00 £21.50 £0.50 2.38% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1832 Scrap Metal Licence Variation; change site managers £53.00 £54.10 £1.10 2.08% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Scrap Metal chargies are made every 3 years, however annual Public Protection R1833 Scrap Metal certified copy of licence £21.00 £21.50 £0.50 2.38% uplifts will be applied to the charge. The next payment is due in 2019/20. Commercial Premises - Pest Control Work - price per hour Public Protection R1290 minimum charge of 1 hour (Based on historical data, if new data £103.00 £106.00 £3.00 2.91% identifies that the full unit cost/hourly Commercial Premises - Wasp Nest - price per nest with Public Protection R1291 £71.00 £72.50 £1.50 2.11% advanced payment Domestic premises - Wasp nest - price per nest with advanced Public Protection R1292 £59.00 £60.20 £1.20 2.03% payment Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Public Protection
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£) Notes
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
Public Protection R1889 Domestic premises - Ants with advanced payment £59.00 £60.20 £1.20 2.03% Domestic Premises (1 Bed Flat / Studio) - Cockroaches, Public Protection R1890 £59.00 £60.20 £1.20 2.03% bedbugs, fleas with advanced payment Domestic Premises (2/3 Bed) - Cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas Public Protection R1891 £75.00 £76.50 £1.50 2.00% with advanced payment Domestic Premises (4/5 Bed) - Cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas Public Protection R1892 £91.00 £92.90 £1.90 2.09% with advanced payment Domestic Premises (6+ Bed) - Cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas with Public Protection R1893 £107.00 £110.00 £3.00 2.80% advanced payment Domestic Premises (1 Bed Flat / Studio) - Demetes , carpet Public Protection R1894 £75.00 £76.50 £1.50 2.00% beetles with advanced payment
Page 25 Page Domestic Premises (2/3 Bed) - Demetes , carpet beetles with Public Protection R1895 £91.00 £92.90 £1.90 2.09% advanced payment Domestic Premises (4/5 Bed) - Demetes , carpet beetles with Public Protection R1896 £107.00 £110.00 £3.00 2.80% advanced payment Domestic Premises (6+ Bed) - Demetes , carpet beetles with Public Protection R1897 £123.90 £127.00 £3.10 2.50% advanced payment Commercial Premises - Wasp Nest - price per nest invoice Public Protection R1293 £116.00 £119.00 £3.00 2.59% requested Public Protection R1294 Domestic Premises - Squirrel Treatment £126.00 £129.00 £3.00 2.38% Domestic Premises - Assessment / monitoring charge, including Public Protection R1295 £41.00 £41.90 £0.90 2.20% call out charge if treatment inappropriate. Public Protection R1296 Domestic Premises - Advisory visit with not treatment. £41.00 £41.90 £0.90 2.20% Domestic Premises - re-booking fee - to rebook/ change an Public Protection R1297 £24.00 £24.50 £0.50 2.08% appointment time Public Protection R1298 Domestic Premises - cancellation of appointment £23.00 £23.50 £0.50 2.17% NEW in 2015- Public Protection Pest Port Scheme - 12 months scheme with up to 3 treatments £121.00 £124.00 £3.00 2.48% 16 - no ref no. Public Protection R1421 Drivers: Area Knowledge Test £18.00 £18.40 £0.40 2.22% Public Protection R1422 Drivers: Replacement Badge £18.00 £18.40 £0.40 2.22% Public Protection R1423 Drivers: Details Check £18.00 £18.40 £0.40 2.22% Public Protection R1424 Drivers: Duplicate Licence £12.00 £12.30 £0.30 2.50% Public Protection R1425 Drivers: Replacement Lanyard £3.00 £3.10 £0.10 3.33% Public Protection R1426 Drivers: Drivers Declaration £8.00 £8.20 £0.20 2.50% Public Protection R1428 Vehicles: Plate Fee £36.00 £36.80 £0.80 2.22% Public Protection R1429 Change Of Vehicle £117.00 £120.00 £3.00 2.56% Public Protection R1430 Change Of Owner £36.00 £36.80 £0.80 2.22% Public Protection R1431 Retest Charge £60.00 £61.20 £1.20 2.00% Public Protection R1432 Duplicate Licence £12.00 £12.30 £0.30 2.50% Public Protection R1433 Replacement Window Stickers £6.00 £6.20 £0.20 3.33% Public Protection R1434 Vehicles: Dash Numbers £4.00 £4.10 £0.10 2.50% Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Public Protection
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£) Notes
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
Misc.: Information Letter (Cost Includes Up To 1 Hours Work Public Protection R1440 £89.00 £90.80 £1.80 2.02% And A Cost Of Letter) Misc.: Information Check (Each Subsequent Hour Or Part Public Protection R1441 £22.00 £22.50 £0.50 2.27% Thereof) Public Protection R1442 Misc.: Insurance £46.00 £47.00 £1.00 2.17% New in 16/17 - Public Protection Front plate carrier £21.00 £21.50 £0.50 2.38% no ref no New in 16/17 - Public Protection Rear plate carrier £28.00 £28.60 £0.60 2.14% no ref no New in 16/17 -
Page 26 Page Public Protection Button and key £1.00 £1.10 £0.10 10.00% no ref no New in 16/17 - Public Protection Window pouch £6.00 £6.20 £0.20 3.33% no ref no New in 16/17 - Public Protection Area Knowledge Re-test £41.00 £41.90 £0.90 2.20% no ref no New in 16/17 - Public Protection Coaching session £41.00 £41.90 £0.90 2.20% no ref no New in 16/17 - Public Protection Coaching (missed appointment) £41.00 £41.90 £0.90 2.20% no ref no Public Protection R1443 Hourly Rate For Work Not Included Below £106.00 £109.00 £3.00 2.83% Public Protection R1444 Hourly Rate : Weights Up To 5 kg £8.00 £8.20 £0.20 2.50% Public Protection R1445 Hourly Rate: Weights Above 5 kg £10.00 £10.20 £0.20 2.00% Public Protection R1446 Linear Measures - Not Exceeding 3 Meters £11.00 £11.30 £0.30 2.73% Linear Measures: Capacity (Without Division): Not Exceeding 1 Public Protection R1447 £217.00 £222.00 £5.00 2.30% Litre Public Protection R1448 Linear Measures: Capacity (Without Division): Cubic Ballast £36.00 £36.80 £0.80 2.22% Linear Measures: Capacity (Without Division) Liquid Capacity: Public Protection R1449 £64.00 £65.30 £1.30 2.03% Templates Public Protection R1450 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 15 kg £38.00 £38.80 £0.80 2.11% Public Protection R1451 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 100 kg £55.00 £56.10 £1.10 2.00% Public Protection R1452 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 250 kg £71.00 £72.50 £1.50 2.11% Public Protection R1453 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 1 Tonne £134.00 £137.00 £3.00 2.24% Public Protection R1454 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 10 Tonne £213.00 £218.00 £5.00 2.35% Public Protection R1455 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 30 Tonne £445.00 £454.00 £9.00 2.02% Public Protection R1456 Weighing Instruments Imperial Or Metric Units: Up To 60 Tonne £666.00 £680.00 £14.00 2.10% Public Protection R1457 Measuring Instruments: Intoxicating Liquors: Up To 150 ml £27.00 £27.60 £0.60 2.22% Public Protection R1458 Measuring Instruments: Intoxicating Liquors: Other £28.00 £28.60 £0.60 2.14% Public Protection R1459 Liquid Fuel And Lubricants £94.00 £95.90 £1.90 2.02% Public Protection R1460 Unsubdivisional Container: Multigrade-Single Outlet £129.00 £132.00 £3.00 2.33% Public Protection R1461 Unsubdivisional Container: Price Adjustment: Other £232.00 £237.00 £5.00 2.16% Proposed Discretionary Fees & Charges 2018/19 - Early Adoption
Appendix 1 - Public Protection
Current Proposed Increase Sub-Area Ref Desc Charge Charge % Increase (£) 2017/18 (£) 2018/19 (£) Notes
Charges that are not in line with the 2% proposed uplift
Public Protection R1462 Unsubdivisional Container: Price Adjustment: Other-Single Outlet £104.00 £107.00 £3.00 2.88% Public Protection R1463 Unsubdivisional Container: Price Adjustment: Other £139.00 £142.00 £3.00 2.16% Public Protection R1464 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 1 Meter £151.00 £155.00 £4.00 2.65% Public Protection R1465 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 2 Meters £245.00 £250.00 £5.00 2.04% Public Protection R1466 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 3 Meters £334.00 £341.00 £7.00 2.10% Public Protection R1467 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 4 Meters £421.00 £430.00 £9.00 2.14% Public Protection R1468 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 5 Meters £513.00 £524.00 £11.00 2.14% Public Protection R1469 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 6 Meters £599.00 £611.00 £12.00 2.00% Public Protection R1470 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 7 Meters £704.00 £719.00 £15.00 2.13% Page 27 Page Public Protection R1471 Unsubdivisional Container: Multi-Outlets: 8 Meters £782.00 £798.00 £16.00 2.05% Public Protection R1472 Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Meter System: Wet Hose £247.00 £252.00 £5.00 2.02% Public Protection R1473 Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Meter System: Dry Hose £276.00 £282.00 £6.00 2.17% Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Dipstick System: To 7600 Public Protection R1474 £217.00 £222.00 £5.00 2.30% Litres Public Protection R1475 Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Dipstick System: Initial £29.00 £29.60 £0.60 2.07% Public Protection R1476 Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Dipstick System: Spare £29.00 £29.60 £0.60 2.07% Public Protection R1477 Road Tanker Fuel (Above 100 Litres): Dipstick System: Replace £60.00 £61.20 £1.20 2.00% Public Protection R1481 Primary Authority Agreement Hourly rate £59.00 £60.20 £1.20 2.03% Agenda Item 7b
Minutes of a meeting of Cabinet held on 28th November 2017
Minute CALCULATION OF THE COUNCIL TAX BASE FOR 2018/19 Number
72. Cabinet considered the report of the Chief Finance Officer which requested Cabinet to recommend to Council:-
For the Local Council Tax Support Scheme to remain unchanged for 2018/19.
To agree the statutory council tax base calculation for 2018/19, calculated in accordance with The Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (England) Regulations 2012 as part of the Budget 2018/19 process.
To note the draft proposals for the change to the precepting arrangements for 2018/19 to include the Greater Manchester Mayoral functions and to approve the precept payment dates for 2018/19.
Alternatives considered:
No alternative is available, as the Council has a statutory requirement to calculate and approve a council tax base each financial year.
Decision:
That Council be recommended to approve:
1. That the Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2018/19 remains unchanged;
2. That the Council tax base expressed as “band D equivalent properties”, be 53,537 for 2018/19 (53,025 2017/18) as detailed at Appendix 1 of the report;
3. The draft proposals for the changes to the precepting arrangements for 2018/19 to include the Greater Manchester Mayoral functions;
4. The proposed precepts payment schedule detailed in paragraph 4.2 of the report.
Reason for decision:
Rochdale Borough Council, as a council tax billing authority, is required
Page 28 each year to make statutory calculations specified in Section 33 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 (as amended). The Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (England) Regulations 2012 require authorities to calculate the council tax base (number of taxable properties), expressed as "band D equivalent properties". Approval of these calculations is required by 31st January in each financial year.
The Local Government Finance Act 1992 prescribes the procedures to be adopted in setting precept payment dates. The Act requires billing authorities to notify precepting authorities of a proposed payments schedule. This notification must be given before the 31st December in respect of the following financial year. The final payments schedule is then confirmed by 31st January.
The calculation of the tax base has to be made by 31st January and notified to the major precepting and levying authorities. Under Section 84 of the Local Government Act 2003 the determination can be delegated to a committee or sub-committee in accordance with Section 101 of the Local Government Act 1972.
Page 29 Report to Corporate O&S Committee and to Cabinet
Date of Meeting 21st November 2017 (Corporate O&S) 28th November 2017 (Cabinet) Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources Report Author Victoria Bradshaw Public/Private Document Public
Calculation of the Council Tax Base for 2018/19
Executive Summary
1.1 This report seeks approval from Council on the 13th December 2017:
1. For the Local Council Tax Support Scheme to remain unchanged for 2018/19.
2. To agree the statutory council tax base calculation for 2018/19, calculated in accordance with The Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (England) Regulations 2012 as part of the Budget 2018/19 process.
3. To note the draft proposals for the change to the precepting arrangements for 2018/19 to include the Greater Manchester Mayoral functions and to approve the precept payment dates for 2018/19.
Recommendation
2.1 Cabinet are asked to consider, for recommendation to Council on the 13th December 2017:
1. That the Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2018/19 remains unchanged.
2. The council tax base expressed as “band D equivalent properties”, be recommended as 53,537 for 2018/19 (53,025 2017/18) as detailed at Appendix 1.
3. The draft proposals for the changes to the precepting arrangements for 2018/19 to include the Greater Manchester Mayoral functions.
4. The proposed precepts payment schedule detailed in paragraph 4.2.
Page 30 Reason for Recommendation
3.1 Rochdale Borough Council, as a council tax billing authority, is required each year to make statutory calculations specified in Section 33 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 (as amended). The Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (England) Regulations 2012 require authorities to calculate the council tax base (number of taxable properties), expressed as "band D equivalent properties". Approval of these calculations is required by 31st January in each financial year.
3.2 The Local Government Finance Act 1992 prescribes the procedures to be adopted in setting precept payment dates. The Act requires billing authorities to notify precepting authorities of a proposed payments schedule. This notification must be given before the 31st December in respect of the following financial year. The final payments schedule is then confirmed by 31st January.
3.3 The calculation of the tax base has to be made by 31st January and notified to the major precepting and levying authorities. Under Section 84 of the Local Government Act 2003 the determination can be delegated to a committee or sub-committee in accordance with Section 101 of the Local Government Act 1972.
Key Points for Consideration
4.1 Calculation of the Council Tax Base
4.1.2 The calculation of the tax base starts with the number of recorded properties in each tax band (A to H) at 11th September 2017, adjusted for: changes expected to occur up to 31st March 2019 as a result of appeals, demolition and new home construction; estimated number of disabled person’s reductions; and discounts allowed for single person households, students and empty/exempt properties.
4.1.3 Following on from the resulting figure from the application of the process outlined in paragraph 4.1.2, the tax base calculation for 2018/19 also takes account of the additional charges resulting from the local discount scheme in place for empty properties and second homes; along with the impact of the Local Council Tax Support scheme.
4.1.4 This calculated number of properties in each band is then multiplied by a factor specified in the regulations to give an "equivalent number of band D properties" and then by an estimate of the likely collection rate for 2018/19 to give the tax base.
4.1.5 The council tax base is used by the precepting authorities to apportion their net expenditure to their constituent authorities and by Rochdale Borough Council to set the level of council tax for 2018/19.
4.1.6 The Council's net budgeted spending, including precepts and levies and after
Page 31 taking account of receipts of business rate income, is divided by the tax base to produce the council tax level for band D properties, which is the headline tax figure.
4.2 Local Council Tax Support Scheme
4.2.1 Schedule 1A of the Local Government Finance Act 2012 requires local authorities to annually review their local scheme; with any revisions to the scheme requiring a period of consultation and must be agreed by Council by the 31st January each year. There are no requirements to consult, should the scheme remain unchanged.
4.2.2 Council agreed at its meeting on the 14th December 2016 to:
Reduce the minimum payment for working age claimants from 20% to 15%, (award capped at 85% of a Band A council tax from 80% of Band A council tax).
Automatically update the Scheme annually for national changes affecting the operation for the award of local council tax support, thus ensuring the criteria for award remains in line with that of housing benefit, with inflation increases for deductions, premiums and allowances increased in line with Department of Works & Pensions guidance.
4.2.3 It is therefore proposed that the Scheme remains on this basis for 2018/19.
4.3 Precepting Authority Changes and Payment Dates 2018/19
4.3.1 From 2018/19 elected Combined Authority mayors can raise additional resources through a precept (or additional charge) on local council tax bills. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority may set a precept with two separately identified elements for the mayor’s general functions, including the precept previously made for GM Fire & Rescue Authority and for his police and crime commissioner functions.
4.3.2. From 2018/19 the precepting authorities will therefore be :
a) Rochdale Borough Council – General functions b) Rochdale Borough Council – Adult Care c) Greater Manchester Combined Authority – GM Police & Crime Commissioner d) Greater Manchester Combined Authority – General functions
4.3.3 The Local Government Finance Act 1992 prescribes the procedures to be adopted in setting precept payment dates. The Act requires billing authorities to notify precepting authorities of a proposed payments schedule. This notification must be given before 31st December in respect of the following financial year. The final payments schedule is then confirmed by 31st January.
The proposed payments schedule, is in line with the one operating in the current year, which was agreed by all Greater Manchester Authorities:
Page 32 23rd April 2018 23rd October 2018 23rd May 2018 23rd November 2018 25th June 2018 24th December 2018 23rd July 2018 23rd January 2019 23rd August 2018 25th February 2019 24th September 25th March 2019 2018
Alternatives Considered
No alternative is available, as the Council has a statutory requirement to calculate and approve a council tax base each financial year.
Costs and Budget Summary
5.1 The detailed calculation of the tax base is set out in Appendix 1.
5.2 The total number of properties has increased by 398 from 92,979 to 93,377 in the year ending on 11th September 2017. In the previous two years the net change had been increases of 404 (2015) and 586 (2016). There continues to be a level of new build across the Borough, and whilst some of this is offset by demolitions, this further increase shows a continuing growth in the overall property numbers.
5.3 There have been minor changes to the forecasts for exemptions, empty relief and discounts for items such as single person discounts totalling the equivalent of 83 properties.
5.4 The Local Council Tax Support scheme forecast provided in the tax base is based on the 2017/18 local scheme approved by Council on 14th December 2016. The forecast assumes an increase in take up of support in 2018/19 as a result of the impact of the further roll out of Universal Credit.
5.5 The overall estimated collection rate is increasing to 97.2% to reflect the improvements made in the last few years (97.0% in 2017/18).
Risk and Policy Implications
6.1 It is necessary to comply with Section 33 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 (as amended); The Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (England) Regulations 2012; Section 84 of the Local Government Act 2003 and Section 101 of the Local Government Act 1972 to ensure there is no risk that the authority acts ultra vires in relation to its council tax arrangements.
Page 33 Consultation
7.1 This report will be submitted to Corporate Overview & Scrutiny for consultation.
7.2 There are no requirements to undertake a public consultation should the Local Council Tax Scheme remain unchanged.
7.3 Central Government consultation closed on the 26th October 2017 in relation to the options for recognising the changes in for the Greater Manchester Mayoral function and the revisions required to the precepting arrangements for this.
Background Papers Place of Inspection
8.
For Further Information Contact: Victoria Bradshaw , Tel: 01706 925409, [email protected]
Page 34 Appendix 1 – Calculation of the Council Tax base for 2018/19
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
Adjusted number of Adjustment for Net Adjusted Properties @ 11th properties, after Band Valuation Local Council Tax number of Factor Band D Equivalent September 2017 discounts, exemptions Support Scheme properties etc. (see 1.2 below) Up to (4+5) A (Disabled) £40,000 78 71 0 71 5/9 39 A £40,000 50,942 43,362 (12,769) 30,593 6/9 20,395 B £52,000 15,713 14,070 (1,524) 12,546 7/9 9,758 C £68,000 12,038 11,606 (699) 10,907 8/9 9,695 D £88,000 7,761 6,969 (263) 6,706 1 6,706 E £120,000 4,301 4,061 (75) 3,986 11/9 4,872 F £160,000 1,654 1,568 (19) 1,549 13/11 2,237 G £320,000 848 796 (14) 782 15/11 1,303 Page 35 Page H over £320,000 42 37 0 37 18/9 74 TOTAL 93,377 82,540 (15,363) 67,177 55,079
1.2 The total number of properties at 93,377 (column 3) on 11th September 2017 compares to 92,979 last year, reflecting that new house building developments within the Borough were greater than demolitions during the year, resulting in a modest net growth in the overall number of properties. Adjustments are made to reflect the forecast level of discounts and exemptions given to Council Tax payers:
Properties at 11th September 2017 93,377 Forecast for net new growth (after demolitions) 500 Forecast for exemptions (1,500) Forecast for adjustments relating to Single Person discounts, and Empty/other discounts (9,837) Net adjusted number of properties to be used in calculation of the Council Tax base 82,540
1.3 To calculate the statutory tax base, the number of Band D equivalent properties (column 8) is multiplied by the estimated eventual collection rate for income raised relating to 2018/19. The estimated collection rate used for 2018/19 is 97.2% (2017/18: 97.0%).
1.4 Applying a 97.2% collection rate gives a 2018/19 statutory tax base calculation of 53,537 Band D equivalent properties (55,079 x 97.2%).
1.5 Variations in the outturn tax base due to the under/over achievement of the collection rate or incorrect assumptions in calculating the number of Band D equivalent properties will result in a surplus or deficit on the Collection Fund. This is shared between Rochdale Borough Council and the precepting bodies. Agenda Item 7c
Minutes of a meeting of Cabinet held on 28th November 2017
Minute GREATER MANCHESTER WASTE DISPOSAL LEVY ALLOCATION Number METHODOLOGY AGREEMENT
74. Cabinet considered the report of the Chief Finance Officer which outlined transitional and future arrangements for waste disposal across Greater Manchester. Options for a revised Waste Disposal Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement (LAMA) were put to the meeting.
Cabinet were advised that the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee had recently considered the report and had sought assurances that there were opt out clauses in the contract between the GMCA and the Waste Disposal Providers should the BREXIT negotiations result in any of the tax benefits / grants / subsidiaries etc. reducing the cost of disposal being removed.
Alternatives considered:
To approve the proposed revised LAMA and the recommendations set out earlier in the report.
Not to approve the proposed revised IAA and request some alternative arrangement to be developed and which would have to be approved by all constituent districts.
Do nothing, in which case the statutory default scheme would take effect.
Decision:
That Council be recommended to approve:-
1. The proposed revised methodology, the revised Levy Apportionment Methodology Agreement, to be applied in full from 2019/20 with transitional arrangements in place during 2018/19.
2. That the Director of Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources be delegated to approve and/ or make any minor amendments to the final Levy Apportionment Methodology Agreement, and to enter into and finalise the Agreement, the transitional arrangements, and any associated documentation relating thereto.
Reason for decision:
Page 36 Following the decision to terminate the Recycling and Waste Management PFI Contract arrangements it was necessary for all constituent Districts to agree a new Levy which would replace the existing Inter Authority Agreement (IAA) with a revised Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement (LAMA) to reflect the revised financial arrangements to apply fully from 2019/20 financial year onwards with a year of transitional arrangements for the financial year 2018/19.
Page 37 Report to Corporate O&S Committee and to Cabinet
Date of Meeting 21st November 2017 (Corporate O&S) 28th November (Cabinet) Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources Report Author Victoria Bradshaw
Public Document
Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement
Executive Summary
1. The current arrangements for the disposal of household waste in Greater Manchester (except for Wigan Council) were established in 2009 with the signing of the Recycling and Waste Management (PFI) Contract (the PFI Contract) with Viridor Laing (Greater Manchester) limited (VLGM). The Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority (GMWDA) acquired VLGM (for £1) in October 2017 which will allow existing arrangements to be formally terminated so as to address issues that had arisen within the operation of the Contract and to enable significant efficiency savings to be released. The Districts were charged for the disposal of waste through an Inter Authority Agreement which was signed by all Districts in 2009. On termination of the PFI Contract this Agreement was no longer functional. It is therefore necessary to : reconsider the Levy apportionment operated for the allocation of waste disposal levy charges across the Greater Manchester districts who have services provided by GMWDA approve and enter into a revised Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement (LAMA) which reflects the new arrangements which is designed to apply for 10 years, note that the new arrangements would be applied in full for the 2019/20 financial year onwards, with transitional arrangements being proposed for the financial year 2018/19
Recommendation
2. Cabinet are asked to consider, for submission to Council on the 13th December 2017:
Page 38 that the proposed revised methodology, the revised Levy Apportionment Methodology Agreement be approved, which is being applied in full from 2019/20 with transitional arrangements in place during 2018/19.
That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources to approve and/ or make any minor amendments to the final Levy Apportionment Methodology Agreement. A draft of which is provided at Appendix 2, and to enter into and finalise the Agreement, the transitional arrangements, and any associated documentation relating thereto.
Reason for Recommendation
3. Following the decision to terminate the Recycling and Waste Management PFI Contract arrangements it is necessary for all constituent Districts to agree a new Levy which would replace the existing Inter Authority Agreement (IAA) with a revised Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement (LAMA) to reflect the revised financial arrangements to apply fully from 2019/20 financial year onwards with a year of transitional arrangements for the financial year 2018/19.
4. Key Points for Consideration
4.1 Background
4.1.1 The Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority (GMWDA) was established on 1st January 1986 as a Statutory Joint Waste Disposal Authority (JWDA) by the Waste Regulation and Disposal (Authorities) Order 1985. The Authority began to carry out its functions on 1st April 1986, following the abolition of the Greater Manchester County Council.
4.1.2 GMWDA is responsible for the disposal of waste collected by the constituent Waste Collection Authorities, for the provision and maintenance of household waste recycling facilities and for compliance with recycling requirements and is a levying body.
4.1.3 In February 2009 the GMWDA and its nine constituent councils, entered into an Inter Authority Agreement (IAA) regulating the levy. The IAA was entered into pursuant to the Joint Waste Disposal Authorities (Levies) (England) Regulations 2006 (SI 2006/248).
4.1.4 The existing IAA was agreed unanimously by all constituent Districts as part of a suite of documents at the time the PFI Contract was adopted in 2009. This moved the Levy allocation method to one that supported Greater Manchester’s commitment to both the four waste stream collection system and also to incentivise recycling. That IAA was designed to stay in place for the duration of the Recycling and Waste Management (PFI) Contract arrangements with VLGM, to 2034, but has a provision that it would ‘fall away’ on termination of the PFI. A new locally
Page 39 agreed basis to apportion the Levy is therefore needed to be applied from the 2018/19 financial year onwards.
4.1.5 Whist the original principles upon which the IAA were founded, in practice, it is considered that the IAA should be revised to address a number of issues that have arisen as a result of the current methodology:
a) the cost of residual waste is now set at punitive levels. That in turn means that IAA tonnage declarations are not always as accurate as they should be;
b) due to changes in income levels for recyclates there is now a subsidy on both the paper/ card (pulpables) and cans/ plastic bottles/ glass (commingled) recycling waste streams, which is added to the cost of residual waste.
c) The IAA exaggerates the benefits for one District, over wider savings and benefits for the conurbation;
d) there is a lack of transparency; and
e) a number of perverse results are caused by application of bandings.
All constituent Districts have very recently reached the same capacity 4.1.6 for residual waste collections. This therefore provides an opportunity, along with the new operating contract(s) arrangements, to move to a different and more stable agreement.
Current Position 4.2 Following extensive consultation with Districts the GMWDA made a decision to 4.2.1 terminate the existing PFI arrangements in order to reduce costs and to attain operational improvements in order to fulfill the required budget savings.
Upon Termination of the PFI is the existing IAA becomes obsolete. Once the 4.2.2 PFI Contract is formally terminated in accordance with the decision to this effect, the existing IAA will no longer be binding, and a new IAA must be unanimously agreed by all nine constituent Districts. Failure to agree a new methodology will result in the national default mechanism being applied. That default position allocates cost based upon a mixture of Council Tax Base and overall tonnages. All District Treasurers and Waste Chief Officers recognise that the default basis would not deliver either our savings or environmental 4.2.3 aspirations.
Accordingly, an extensive and inclusive process of consultation has now been concluded within Greater Manchester about the replacement process and set out below are the broad proposals for the new levy allocation methodology agreement.
Page 40 4.3.1 Proposals
The key design characteristics for a 10 year duration LAMA and reasoning for their inclusion in the methodology are set out in the table below:
Subject to the methodology detailed at Appendix 1 being approved it is necessary for each GM District to obtain formal agreement before the 31st December 2017 of the new LAM. That in turn will allow the 2018/19 Levy to be set by the GMWDA (8th February 2018) using the new LAM basis.
4.4 Alternatives Considered
4.4.1 To approve the proposed revised LAMA and the recommendations set out earlier in the report.
4.4.2 Not to approve the proposed revised IAA and request some alternative arrangement be developed and which would have to be approved by all constituent districts.
4.4.3 Do nothing, in which case the statutory default scheme will take effect.
4.4.4 Preferred Option
5.1 The preferred option is the proposal set out in Appendix 1 as it has been provisionally approved by all districts following extensive consultation and is considered to be the most equitable, cost effective and environmentally friendly option.
Costs and Budget Summary
5. Based on the revised LAM principles and updated tonnages at Appendix 1 the impact on the 2019/20 financial year across Greater Manchester is detailed at Table 1.
Page 41 Table 1 - GMWDA Revised allocations based on the LAMA for 2019/20
Sept 2017 February projected levy 2017 requirement, projection Cost/ revised LAM (old IAA Saving methodology and Dec. due to Cost/ Saving due to levy and Sept 2017 2016 tonnage allocation methodology District tonnages tonnages) changes changes
£m £m £m £m
Bolton 20.430 20.534 -0.136 0.032
Bury 14.076 13.879 -0.086 0.283
Manchester 30.417 32.985 -0.955 -1.613
Oldham 17.944 17.567 0.515 -0.138
Rochdale 15.743 15.849 0.023 -0.129
Salford 20.526 21.133 -0.132 -0.475
Stockport 20.958 20.659 -0.196 0.495
Tameside 15.524 13.951 0.357 1.216
Trafford 16.858 15.721 0.579 0.558
Total 172.476 172.278 -0.031 0.229
. It is further proposed that, after taking account of tonnage changes year on year, that the levy allocation in 2018/19 be based upon a ‘half the difference’ (i.e. average of 2017/18 revised estimate and 2019/20 estimates) and will be adjusted at year end to reflect actual tonnages at the marginal tonnage rate change basis.
The change in the allocation method for Rochdale Council would be a small reduction in ongoing levy charges of £129k from 2019/20.
Risk and Policy Implications
6.1 The IAA was entered into in 2009 regulating the levy pursuant to the Joint Waste Disposal Authorities (Levies) (England) Regulations 2006 (SI 2006/248). There is a risk that should all of the 9 Greater Manchester districts not agree to the revised proposal for the allocation of the Levy by the 31st December 2017 then the statutory default allocation method would
Page 42 apply. This could have adverse financial implications for Rochdale Council as it would not recognise the progress made in recycling by the Borough as the default scheme is charged on the basis of tonnage and council tax base. This Scheme would also dis-incentivise recycling potentially having a detrimental environmental impact on the Greater Manchester aspiration to reduce waste.
Consultation
7. There has been extensive consultation will all of the Districts affected.
Background Papers Place of Inspection
8.
For Further Information Contact: Tracey Bland, Tel: 01706 925405, [email protected]
Page 43 APPENDIX 1
Proposal for the Local Authority Methodology Allocation (LAMA) for the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Levy
A. District Collected Waste (c £136m, 78.6% of net costs)
1. Retain 4 waste stream approach, based upon:- To Reflect collection working practices and to ensure costs and environmental i. Commingled/pulpables (as one); benefits from recycling improvements ii. Organics (food and Garden); remain.
iii. Trade Waste, and
iv. Residual Waste.
2. Retain year-end adjustments for tonnages Ensures a direct link to performance (introduced from 2017/18). Adjustments to be at a and encourages direct link to benefits pre-agreed annual rate, reflecting marginal of improving recycling performance. processing costs (subject to items A3 below). Marginal costs are used to match any cost/reductions at a District level with broadly corresponding changes in costs paid to the providing contractor.
Increases transparency and stops a mere cost reallocation exercise (as changes in levy are broadly matched by corresponding changes in costs paid to the contractors). Also provides a more stable budget position year on year at district level.
3. Allocate costs on the basis of an Apportionment Model (AM) which comprises:-
i. fixed element (i.e. are related to costs which do not vary, such as debt charges). These will be allocated to Districts based on adjusted1 2017/18 actual tonnages, and will be reviewed after 5 years for 2022/23
1 An adjustment may be made to Salford and Trafford figures (only) to reflect the part year impact of reduced waste capacity roll out and potential impact of charging for Garden Waste (respectively).
Page 44 ii. variable costs – which reflect marginal processing cost.
This provision ensures that one District 4. For Districts whose recycling falls below 1% of cannot adversely impact others by current levels, residual waste to be charged at full cost reducing its recycling efforts. 1% (i.e. fixed and variable). The 1% assessment to be from variation is proposed to reflect the 2017/18 base position. seasonality/past changes etc. (i.e. not a hair trigger) and to have an exception override (to the GMCA Treasurer) in case of exceptional circumstances
5. Common assumptions to be used in tonnage This provision ensures that all future estimates. year increases are based upon common factors, such as expected changes in housing type/numbers and population. It will also ensure re- procurement facilities/capacity are correctly sized.
B. Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC) (c. £31m, 17.9% of net costs)
Cost allocation moved to be based upon: Move is away from 100% based on Council Tax Base and better reflects that usage will be linked to access by i. 50% Council Tax Base cars.
ii. 50% Car Ownership (2011 Office of National Statistics census) but subject to a survey of To allay any concern that these ‘proxy’ users (in 2018/19) to establish the district in measures may still not reflect usage which they live. there is a proposed review, following a survey of uses, in the 2018/19 financial year (as part of the Waste Composition Analysis work stream).
C: Authority Own costs (c. £5m, 2.9% of net costs) – including direct costs (such as salaries/running costs)
Equal share Costs do not vary significantly by activity, and are thus linked to an 11.1% each District allocation basis.
D: Non-Key Services (c. £1m, 0.6% of net costs) – this comprises specialised waste services, such as asbestos, plasterboard, clinical waste, dog waste, etc.
Page 45 Waste arisings No change from the existing basis. It is intended that the majority of ‘regular’ waste will in future be included in the reprocured contracts and thus the value of this will fall further.
District tonnages need to be revised on an annual basis, to reflect changes in both volumes and in the level of recycling that local residents are achieving. In previous years an inconsistent approach has been taken to those projections, particularly in relation to the possible impacts of population and housing growth. Through the Waste Chief Officers Group, led by Bolton Council, a common approach to growth has bene adopted, and has been included in the projections for future years levy. That approach has advantages both in projecting future requirements (for the new operating contracts) and also in minimising the potential for significant in-year fluctuations (which are now a district level risk). Figures used in projections thus take account of 5 months actuals, which is essential given the scope of collection changes made in the last 12 months by many districts, but will still require further refinement and challenge before being finalised in December 2017.
Page 46 DATED 2018
(1) Greater Manchester Waste Disposal WDA
(2) Bolton Borough Council
(3) Bury Metropolitan Borough Council
(4) The Council of the City of Manchester
(5) Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council
(6) Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council
(7) Salford City Council
(8) Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
(9) Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council
(10) Trafford Borough Council
Page- 1 - 47 WASTE MANAGEMENT LEVY ALLOCATION METHODOLOGY (LAMA) AGREEMENT
CONTENTS Clause Page
1. Definitions 4 2. Commencement and Duration 8 3. Partnering Ethos 8 4. Principal Obligations of the WDA 9 5. Principal Obligations of the WCAs 10 6. WCA Best Value Duty 11 7. Change to Viridor Operating Contract (VC) and the 12 Replacement Operating Contracts 8. Exit and Entry Arrangements 12 9. No Worse/No Better 12 10. Freedom of Information 13 11. Privity 13 12. No Agency 13 13. No Partnership 13 14. Entire Agreement 14 15. Law of Contract and Jurisdiction 14
Schedules 1. WCA Forecast 15 2. Facilities 33 3. Levy Allocation to WCA Mechanism 42 4. Change Control Procedures 46
Page- 2 -48 THIS LEVY ALLOCATION METHODOLOGY AGREEMENT (LAMA) is made on the
2018
BETWEEN
(1) Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority of 1st Floor, Churchgate House, 56 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 6EU (“the WDA”);
(2) Bolton Borough Council of Town Hall, Victoria Square, Bolton, BL1 1RU;
(3) Bury Metropolitan Borough Council of Town Hall, Knowsley Street, Bury, BL9 0SW;
(4) The Council of the City of Manchester, PO Box 532, of Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester, M60 2LA;
(5) Oldham Borough Council of Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UG;
(6) Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council of Rochdale OL16 1LQNumber One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 1XU
(7) Salford City Council of Civic Centre, Chorley Road, Swinton, Salford, M27 5DA;
(8) Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council of Town Hall, Edward Street, Stockport, SK1 3XE
(9) Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council of; and Dukinfield Town Hall, King Street, Dukinfield, Tameside, SK16 4LA
(10) Trafford Borough Council of Trafford Town Hall, Talbot Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 0TH;
EACH (other than the WDA) being a Waste Collection Authority and which are (other than the WDA) collectively referred to as “the WCAs”.
Page- 3 - 49 RECITALS
(A) The WDA is a Waste Disposal Authority and has a statutory duty to dispose of waste. From 1st April 2018 the WDA will be abolished and all its functions will transfer to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) under the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (Functions and Amendment) Order 2017. From that time forwards all references to WDA in this agreement will be read as references to GMCA.
(B) The WCAs have a statutory duty to collect waste and deliver it to the WDA.
(C) The LAMA is designed to support delivery of the WDA’s Waste Management Strategy, delivery of the English 50% minimum recycling target and to promote diversion from landfill in a way that maximises financial and environmental benefits. Policy on waste management is currently being reviewed at a European level, and as such whilst the LAMA is intended to reflect an expected increase in the levels of recycling performance and diversion from landfill that will be required, it will need to be reviewed over its 10 year period to ensure it reflects final policy decisions.
(D) The Joint Waste Disposal Authorities (Levies) (England) Regulations 2006 established the WDA’s power to issue levies on its constituent councils (the WCAs) to meet all liabilities falling to be discharged by the WDA.
(E) The WDA has continued with a Viridor Operating Contract (VC) and will enter into new Replacement Operating Contracts for the disposal of residual waste and treatment of recyclates, pulpables and green waste (amongst other things). The WCAs have agreed, subject to the terms of this LAMA, to support the WDA in fulfilling its responsibilities under these arrangements, which includes a commitment to deliver recyclable material to VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts.
(F) For the 10 year duration of the LAMA the WDA is: -
1. Continuing the existing Operating Contract with the operator Viridor Waste (Greater Manchester) Limited (VC) which provides a short term ‘run off’ contract, which is estimated to cease in April 2019; 2. Proposing to enter into Replacement Operating Contracts which are expected to be awarded covering: - Lot 1 – known as the “Waste and Resource Management Services” (WRMS). Lot 2 – known as the “Household Waste Recycling Centre management services” (HWRCMS). Lot 3 – known as the “Biowaste Management Services” (BMS).
Page- 4 -50 AND In consideration of £1.00 given by the WDA to each of the WCAs (receipt of which is hereby acknowledged) it is agreed as follows:-
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1 In this Agreement, unless the context otherwise requires terms with an initial capital shall have the meanings set out below.
“2019/20 Base Financial This is a cost allocation model developed by the WDA Model” and made available to WCA Treasurers, to support the levy allocation process. The model contains commercially sensitive information and is not therefore part of this Agreement “Administrative Area” The administrative area(s) of the Parties at the date of this Agreement “Agreement” This agreement and the Schedules hereto “Best Value” The obligation continuously to improve both the quality and cost of the collection of Residual Waste and Recycling pursuant to the provision of the Local Government Act 1999 “Best Value Duty” The duty of continuous improvement in relation to, inter alia, the collection of Residual Waste and Recycling imposed on WCAs by Section 3 (1) of the Local Government Act 1999 “Bulky Waste” District collected waste that by its nature will not fit in the usual residual waste receptacles (such as large items of furniture etc.), often referred to as Bulky Waste “Change” Any change agreed in accordance with clauses 6 (WCA Best Value) or 7 (Change) and Schedule 4 (Change Control Procedures) “Change in Law” The coming into effect, after the date of this Agreement, of:- (a) Legislation, other than any Legislation which on the date of this Agreement has been published (i) in a draft Bill as part of a Government Departmental Consultation Paper; (ii) in a Bill; (iii) in a draft statutory instrument; (iv) as a proposal in the official Journal of the European Union; (b) any Guidance; or (c) any applicable judgement of a relevant court of law which establishes or changes a binding
Page- 5 - 51 precedent “Commencement Date” 1st April 2018 “Comingled Waste” Dry recycling that is usually collected as mixed materials by WCA; initially comprising cans, plastic bottles, and glass “Delivery Points” The delivery points for waste to be deposited by type to be agreed by the WCAs on an annual basis as provided for by the process set out in Schedule 2 (Facilities) or such other delivery points as the Parties shall agree. “EIR” The Environmental Information Regulations 2004 “EPA” The Environmental Protection Act 1990 “Exceptional A decision to be made by the GMCA Treasurer to Circumstances” exercise his/her discretion in circumstances that are outside the direct decision making control of the WCAs under which Recycling Minimum Performance Level is triggered. In these Exceptional Circumstances the GMCA Treasurer shall apply a tonnage adjustment rate that is at the LAM Variable costs, rather than the total cost rate. “Expiry Date” Subject to any earlier termination of this Agreement the expiry date shall be 31st March 2028, and “Expiry” shall be construed accordingly “Facility” Each and any facility for the reception of Waste from WCAs including the Delivery Points provided and/or operated or to be provided under the VC or the Replacement Operating Contracts with all supporting infrastructure and equipment “FOIA” The Freedom of Information Act 2000 and any subordinate legislation (as defined in Section 84 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000) made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 from time-to-time together with any guidance and/or codes of practice issued by the Information Commissioner or relevant Government Department in relation to such Act “GMCA” Greater Manchester Combined Authority “HWRC” Household Waste Recycling Centre “IVC” In-vessel Composting Facility “LAM fixed costs” The LAM model costs which are not expected to vary by volumes of tonnages processed, and are by definition mostly fixed by their nature. The 2019/20 Base Financial Model applied the following elements as fixed: Finance charges, in respect of the TPSCo and VLGM Compensation Sum; Facility modification financing costs; Other Financing costs (including former GMCDAF);
Page- 6 -52 National Non Domestic Rates (NNDR); and Insurance “LAM variable costs” The LAM model costs which are expected to vary by volumes of tonnages processed. The 2019/20 Base Financial Model applied the following elements as variable: Replacement Operating Contracts; Runcorn RVC; and landfill costs “Legislation” Any Act of Parliament or subordinate legislation within the meaning of Section 21(1) of the Interpretation Act 1978, any exercise of the Royal Prerogative, and any enforceable community right within the meaning of Section 2 of the European Communities Act 1972, in each case in the United Kingdom “Levy” The charge to the WCAs in accordance with Schedule 3 “Levy Allocation Model A financial model that is used to allocate cost between (LAM)” fixed, variable and WDA own costs as set out Schedule 3 “Levy Requirement” The annual budget requirement, less any contributions for reserves, that the WDA needs to raise from WCA by the Levy to produce a balanced budget. “MBT” Mechanical and Biological Treatment Facility, which is expected to be utilised for the financial year 2018/19 only “MT” Mechanical Treatment Facility, which is expected to operate from 2019/20 onwards “Parties” The WDA and the WCAs, and “Party” shall mean any of them “Partnering Ethos” The aspirational aims set out at clause 3.2 “Performance Deductions” As defined in the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts “Performance Standards” The criteria set out in the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts as agreed or amended from time- to-time “Planned Maintenance” Planned maintenance by VC and Replacement Operating Contractors at any of the Delivery Points “Recyclable Materials” Any materials collected separately or otherwise separated from Residual Waste for the purposes of Recycling (and including materials collected and delivered comingled), including the materials listed below: (a) paper and cardboard; (b) plastics; (c) ferrous and non-ferrous metals;
Page- 7 - 53 (d) textiles; (e) glass; (f) wood; (g) organic kitchen and garden waste; (h) tyres; and (i) waste electrical equipment, or such other materials as shall be agreed in writing between the Parties from time-to-time “Recycle” The delivery of Recyclable Materials for Reprocessing (as evidenced by a Defined Audit Trail) but excluding Energy Recovery or Beneficial Use for inclusion in a reprocessing process, and the terms “Recycling” and “Recycled” shall be interpreted accordingly “Recyclate Performance Below the Recyclate Minimum Performance level the Adjustment” level of adjustment applied per tonne shall be the total of LAM fixed and LAM variable costs (both expressed in £ per tonne levels) “Recyclate Base This is the actual level of recycling achieved in 2017/18 Performance level (RBP)” at an individual district level expressed as a percentage of total waste arisings less trade waste, as set out in the formula below: - District RBP = dg+dc+dp dw-dt where; dg = district food and garden waste tonnes dc = district comingled recycling tonnes dp = district pulpables tonnes dw = district total waste arisings tonnes dt = district trade waste “Recyclate Minimum This is the level by which recycling levels can reduce, Performance level” below which the Recyclate Performance Adjustment is applied. It is expressed as shown in the formula below: RBP – 1% “Replacement Operating Three waste management operating contracts to be let Contracts” around April 2019 comprising: - Lot 1 – known as the “Waste and Resource Management Services” (WRMS). Lot 2 – known as the “Household Waste Recycling Centre management services” (HWRCMS). Lot 3 – known as the “Biowaste Management Services” (BMS).
“Residual Waste” All Waste delivered to the WDA that is not recycling, or
Page- 8 -54 Trade Waste “Runcorn RVC” The Residual Value Contract entered into by the Authority and Thermal Power Station (Runcorn) Limited (TPSCo) for the end disposal in a combined heat and power plant by thermal means of the refuse derived fuel produced from residual waste. “Service Delivery Plans” The plans in VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts which sets out how the Residual Waste and Recycling services and certain of the standards to which the services must be performed in respect of the relevant Facilities
“Smoothing Factor” An adjustment to the 2018/19 Levy only to reflect the adjustments caused by methodology changes from the 2017/18 Inter Authority Agreement (IAA) basis, and the 2019/20 LAMA, as set out in Schedule 3, para. 9 “Trade Waste” Waste of similar composition to Residual Waste which is collected from commercial and office premises for or by the Districts and is treated in accordance with Schedule 3, para. 6 “TRF” The Thermal Recovery Facility located at Raikes Lane, Bolton “Transport Levy Base” The mid-year 2016 population base, as applied to the 2018/19 levy year. “TLS” Transfer Loading Station “Unavailable/Un- That a Delivery Point is for a period of time or availability” permanently unavailable for the reception of Residual Waste and Recycling, as further defined in VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts “Waste” The types of waste described in Schedule 1 (WCA Forecast) to be delivered by the WCAs to the WDA pursuant to this Agreement and other provisions relating thereto “WCA Collection Any collection contractor engaged by a WCA to collect Contractor” Contract Waste “WCA Forecast” The forecast, made by each WCA, of all Waste arising, for a five year forward period that takes account of expected increase in housing and population, and which is set out at Schedule 1 (WCA Forecast). Each district will prepare at least two forecasts annually, which will be subject to scrutiny by the WDA. Those forecasts will be required each year in: - September – to complement the initial budget forecast and inform the initial allocation of levy at district level; and December – which will be used as the basis of setting the annual Levy at a district level “WCA Operations” The methods of operation from time-to-time of each
Page- 9 - 55 WCA in collecting and delivering its Waste to Delivery Points “WDA” The Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority “WET Act” The Waste and Emissions Trading Act 2003
2. COMMENCEMENT AND DURATION
This Agreement will commence on the Commencement Date and continue in full force and effect until the earlier of:- 2.1 the Expiry Date; or
2.2 earlier if all of the WCAs and the WDA agree to amend or terminate this Agreement.
3. PARTNERING ETHOS
3.1 The Parties will work in good faith and in accordance with the Partnering Ethos.
3.2 Partnering Ethos shall mean that each party shall:-
3.2.1 act reasonably and co-operatively with the other Parties;
3.2.2 provide information to each other which they consider (acting reasonably) to be relevant relating to waste collection and waste disposal;
3.2.3 use reasonable endeavours to mitigate any losses arising from a Party’s failure under this Agreement and to reduce the detrimental impact on the other Parties (or the council tax payers of any one of them) of any failure to carry out its obligations under this Agreement;
3.2.4 use reasonable endeavours working together and in co- operation with VC and the Replacement Operating Contractors, to minimise waste, to educate the public and the commercial sector about recycling schemes and why their participation in these schemes is crucial, and to ensure that as much Waste as possible is (in order of priority) reduced, re-used, recycled or recovered; and
3.2.5 without prejudice to the express rights, remedies and obligations of the WCAs under this Agreement and Legislation
Page- 10 56- the WCAs shall (using reasonable endeavours) not knowingly do anything under their reasonable control which would put the WDA in material breach of VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts.
4. PRINCIPAL OBLIGATIONS OF THE WDA
4.1 The WDA will discharge its statutory duties and contractual obligations to the WCAs (to receive and dispose of Waste at the Delivery Points) through VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts referred to in the Recitals.
4.2 The WDA will apportion the costs incurred in relation to these obligations pursuant to Schedule 3 (Levy Allocation to WCAs Methodology).
4.3 Where an act or omission of the WDA or any relevant Contractor of the WDA, including a failure of VC and the Replacement Operating Contractors to achieve any of the Performance Standards, causes any loss to one or more WCAs, the WDA will use its best endeavours to pursue any appropriate remedies available to it including the recovery of Performance Deductions under the VC and Replacement Operating Contracts referred to in the Recitals and pay such monies to the affected WCA. Where more than one WCA has suffered the same performance failure the payment of any compensation or the Performance Deduction shall be shared between the affected WCAs pro-rata based upon the amount of losses incurred by each WCA arising out of the performance failure. The payment shall be made to WCAs by the WDA through the LAMA in the month following the month in which the Performance Standard was not achieved.
4.4 Any money compensation obtained or payable by the WDA pursuant to clause 4.3 will be returned to the WCAs in appropriate proportions through the LAM.
4.5 Subject to clauses 4.7 the WDA will use its reasonable endeavours to notify a WCA of any changes within the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts set out in the Recitals which might be of relevance to it or affect its obligations flowing from that contract or this Agreement.
4.6 The WDA shall use its reasonable endeavours to ensure that the VC and the Replacement Operating Contractors achieves the Performance Standards and shall ensure that each WCA is made aware of the Performance Standards and of the current Service Delivery Plans and, where relevant, is consulted about them.
Page- 11 - 57 4.7 The WDA shall agree the basis for the new contractual arrangements with the Replacement Operating Contractors and the WCAs and once agreed shall use its best endeavours to ensure that any material change to the Replacement Operating Contracts shall be agreed with the WCAs in advance and shall use its best endeavours to mitigate any impact on the WCAs
5. PRINCIPAL OBLIGATIONS OF THE WCAs
5.1 Each WCA will deliver or cause to be delivered all Waste to the Delivery Points for that WCA set out in Schedule 2 (Facilities).
5.2 Without prejudice to clauses 6 (WCA Best Value) and 7 (Change to the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts), each WCA shall commit Residual Waste and Recycling (to the extent set out in Schedules 1 & 2) to the WDA.
5.3 If any act or omission of a WCA causes loss to the WDA (including, without limitation, through entitling the VC or the Replacement Operating Contractors of the WDA to increase its charges or seek any other remedy from the WDA) or to any other WCA, then that WCA will bear the cost of the relevant losses, so that they do not fall equally, through the LAM, on those WCAs which were not at fault.
5.4 The WCAs will pay the WDA for the waste disposal services it provides to the WCAs pursuant to the Levy Regulations as defined in Schedule 3 in accordance with the principles set out in Schedule 3 (Levy Allocation to WCAs Methodology).
5.5 Prior to the start of the initial WCA Forecast projections (annually in September) the WDA will facilitate the production of guidance on the impact of population and housing growth on potential levels of waste arisings. Each WCA shall, in preparing the WCA Forecast for its Administrative Area, take account of those expected impacts. The WDA will act as a ‘critical friend’ to challenge the WCA Forecasts produced, and seek explanations that it deems appropriate. Comments by the WDA will be given due consideration by the WCA and if no changes are proposed the WCA will be required to supply a written explanation of why changes have not been made to the WCA Forecast. The WCA Forecast shall be provided annually and will cover a 5-year rolling period, or other shorter period as the WDA deems appropriate.
5.6 Nothing contained in this Agreement and no consent or approval given by any party to this Agreement shall prejudice restrict interfere with or otherwise affect any of the statutory or other rights powers or obligations and duties for the time being vested in that party or the performance by that party of any such obligations
Page- 12 58- or duties or the means by which that party shall in its absolute discretion exercise its respective rights or powers or fulfil or discharge any such obligations or duties.
6. WCAs’ BEST VALUE DUTY
6.1 The WDA acknowledges that WCAs are subject to the Best Value Duty and it agrees to assist WCAs in discharging the Best Value Duty in relation to the continuous improvement in the delivery of their waste collection services.
6.2 The WDA shall comply with requests for information, data or other assistance made by WCAs in pursuance of the Best Value Duty.
7. CHANGE TO VC AND THE REPLACEMENT OPERATING CONTRACTS
7.1 WCAs may request a change to the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 4 (Change Control Procedures).
8. EXIT AND ENTRY ARRANGEMENTS
8.1 Expiry and Termination
8.1.1 Not before 1st April 2025 the Parties shall meet to discuss and, all acting reasonably and in good faith, determine the arrangements for the disposal of waste after the expiry of the Agreement and the Replacement Operating Contracts.
8.2 New Entrant
8.2.1 If at any time during the term of this Agreement, any third party wishes to utilise any part of the Replacement Operating Contracts, the Parties will meet to discuss and, acting reasonably and in good faith, determine whether agreement should be given to that third party utilising the Replacement Operating Contracts and, if so, the terms of that agreement with the intention that the WCAs are in no worse position as a result of the third party’s use, and that such third party is not put in any better position than the WCAs.
Page- 13 - 59 9. NO WORSE/NO BETTER
9.1 Any reference in clause 8 to leaving the WCAs in a “no worse position” shall be construed by reference to the WCAs:-
9.1.1 rights, duties and liabilities under or arising pursuant to performance of this Agreement; and
9.1.2 their ability to perform their obligations and exercise their rights under this Agreement, so as to ensure that:
9.1.3 each WCA is left in a position which is no worse in relation to its financial position under this Agreement and its operating methods for the collection and delivery of Waste had the third party not utilised the Replacement Operating Contracts; and
9.1.4 the ability of the WCAs to comply with this Agreement is not adversely affected as a consequence of that utilisation.
9.2 Any reference in clause 8 to putting the third party in “any better position than the WCAs” shall be construed by reference to the WCAs’ rights and financial position under this Agreement.
10. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
10.1 Each Party acknowledges that each of the other Parties is subject to the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000, the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and the General Data Protection Regulation Data Protection Act 2018 and shall assist and co-operate with the other Parties to comply with these information disclosure requirements.
11. PRIVITY
11.1 No term of this Agreement is enforceable under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 by a person who is not a party to this Agreement.
12. NO AGENCY
12.1 None of the parties shall hold itself out as being the servant or agent of any other Party, otherwise than in circumstances expressly permitted by this Agreement.
Page- 14 60- 12.2 None of the parties shall hold itself out as being authorised to enter into any contract on behalf of any other Party or in any other way to bind any other Party to the performance, variation, release or discharge of any obligation.
12.3 No WCA shall in any circumstances hold itself out as having the power to make, vary, discharge or waive any bye-law or any regulation of any kind relating to the disposal of Waste.
13. NO PARTNERSHIP
13.1 Nothing in this Agreement is intended to, or shall operate to create, a partnership as defined by the Partnership Act 1890 or joint venture of any kind between the Parties or any of them, or to authorise any Party to act as agent for any other, and no Party shall have the WDA to act in the name or on behalf of or otherwise to bind any other in any way (including but not limited to the making of any representation or warranty, the assumption of any obligation or liability and the exercise of any right or power).
14. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
14.1 Except where expressly provided in this Agreement, this Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties in connection with its subject matter and supersedes all prior representations, communications, negotiations and understandings concerning the subject matter of this Agreement.
14.2 Each of the Parties acknowledges that:-
14.2.1 it does not enter into this Agreement on the basis of and does not rely, and has never relied, upon any statement or representation (whether negligent or innocent) or warranty or other provision (in any case whether oral, written, express or implied) made and agreed to by any person (whether a party to this Agreement or not) except those expressly repeated or referred to in this Agreement and the only remedy or remedies available in respect of any misrepresentation or untrue statement made to it shall be any remedy available under this Agreement; and
14.2.2 this clause 14 shall not apply to any statement, representation or warranty made fraudulently, or to any provision of this Agreement which was induced by fraud, for which the remedies available shall be all those available under the law governing this Agreement.
Page- 15 - 61 15. LAW OF THE CONTRACT AND JURISDICTION
15.1 This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales and the Parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
Page- 16 62- SCHEDULE 1
GMWDA Summary of Inter-Authority Agreement Tonnages - September 2017
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 45,433 45,659 45,856 46,053 46,251 Pulpables 11,279 11,331 11,376 11,420 11,465 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 13,090 13,160 13,220 13,279 13,339 BOLTON In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 20,182 20,305 20,409 20,514 20,618 Trade waste 4,854 4,878 4,903 4,927 4,952 TOTAL 94,838 95,333 95,764 96,193 96,625
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 28,987 29,132 29,278 29,424 29,571 Pulpables 7,815 7,854 7,893 7,933 7,972 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 9,291 9,337 9,384 9,431 9,478 BURY In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 17,961 18,051 18,141 18,232 18,323 Trade waste 4,790 4,814 4,838 4,862 4,887 TOTAL 68,844 69,188 69,534 69,882 70,231
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 70,087 70,087 70,087 70,087 70,087 Pulpables 14,598 14,598 14,598 14,598 14,598 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 18,537 18,722 18,910 19,099 19,290 MANCHESTER In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 30,074 30,074 30,074 30,074 30,074 Trade waste 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 133,296 133,481 133,669 133,858 134,049
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 41,000 41,200 41,400 41,600 41,800 Pulpables 7,600 7,500 7,400 7,300 7,200 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 9,150 9,200 9,250 9,300 9,350 OLDHAM In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 15,300 15,375 15,450 15,525 15,600 Trade waste 8,800 8,900 9,000 9,100 9,200 TOTAL 81,850 82,175 82,500 82,825 83,150
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 35,731 35,874 36,053 36,224 36,415 Pulpables 6,964 6,999 7,034 7,069 7,104 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 8,695 8,738 8,782 8,826 8,870 ROCHDALE In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 18,692 18,785 18,879 18,974 19,069 Trade waste 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 70,082 70,396 70,748 71,093 71,458
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 47,425 47,175 47,675 48,175 48,675 Pulpables 9,360 9,560 9,660 9,760 9,860 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 10,450 10,500 10,600 10,700 10,800 SALFORD In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 17,250 17,400 17,500 17,600 17,700 Trade waste 9,150 9,250 9,250 9,250 9,250 TOTAL 93,635 93,885 94,685 95,485 96,285
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 42,000 42,170 42,330 42,500 42,660 Pulpables 13,115 13,167 13,218 13,270 13,322 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 13,156 13,208 13,260 13,311 13,363 STOCKPORT In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 36,540 36,684 36,828 36,972 37,115 Trade waste 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 104,811 105,229 105,636 106,053 106,460
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 30,949 31,104 31,259 31,416 31,573 Pulpables 8,398 8,440 8,482 8,525 8,567 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 12,872 12,936 13,001 13,066 13,131 TAMESIDE In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 18,920 19,015 19,110 19,205 19,301 Trade waste 6,759 6,793 6,827 6,861 6,895 TOTAL 77,898 78,288 78,679 79,073 79,467
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 32,237 32,479 32,804 33,132 33,463 Pulpables 9,831 9,800 9,800 9,800 9,800 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 10,623 10,676 10,729 10,783 10,837 TRAFFORD In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 26,505 25,525 25,653 25,781 25,910 Trade waste 7,000 7,070 7,141 7,212 7,284 TOTAL 86,196 85,550 86,127 86,708 87,294
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 373,849 374,880 376,742 378,611 380,495 Pulpables 88,960 89,249 89,461 89,675 89,888 Dry recyclables (excl. pulpables) 105,864 106,477 107,136 107,795 108,458 WCA TOTAL In-Vessel Composting (IVC) 201,424 201,214 202,044 202,877 203,710 Trade waste 41,353 41,705 41,959 42,212 42,468 TOTAL 811,450 813,525 817,342 821,170 825,019
2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 Residual 158,506 162,425 166,441 170,556 174,773 Dry recyclables 80,818 82,816 84,863 86,961 89,111 HWRCs Windrow 17,495 17,928 18,371 18,825 19,291 Rubble 48,394 49,590 50,816 52,073 53,360 TOTAL 305,212 312,759 320,491 328,415 336,535
TOTAL CONTRACT WASTE 1,116,662 1,126,284 1,137,833 1,149,585 1,161,554
Page- 17 - 63 SCHEDULE 2 Facilities
The Facilities set out at clause 5.1 will be agreed with each WCA on an annual basis and will cover by waste stream type (e.g. pulpables, Comingled, Food and Green Waste, and Residual (including Trade and Bulky Waste)), in a format similar to the template table set out below. Any changes to these Delivery Points, whether temporary or permanent will be dealt with in accordance with the Change Control Procedure (Schedule 4). For the avoidance of doubt ‘tipping away’ payments will be applied in the event of temporary changes necessitated by unavailability of named facilities.
Delivery Point
Pulpables
Comingled
Kitchen & Garden
Residual (including Bulky and Trade Waste)
Notes: Excludes clinical waste, which is directed to third party sites for disposal. Excludes hazardous waste, which is directed to WDA specific sites licensed accordingly. ‘Third Party - WDA’: This waste stream is delivered by the WCA to an agreed WDA third party site. Disposal is committed to the WDA VC or Replacement Operating Contracts at the Commencement Date.
Page- 18 64- SCHEDULE 3
LEVY ALLOCATION METHODOLOGY
1. Payment by the WCAs to the WDA for the waste disposal services received, and apportionment of the Levy under the Joint Waste Disposal Authorities (Levies) (England) Regulations 2006 (“the Levy Regulations”) will be established in accordance with the principles set out in this Schedule 3. Therefore, the levy allocation mechanism set out in this Schedule represents an agreed basis for apportioning the Levy under Regulation 4 (1) (a) of the Levy Regulations.
2. Under the proposed post April 2019 Replacement Operating Contracts the WDA is expected to have costs which comprise: a) A Fixed Cost element, such as financing costs (LAM Fixed Costs); b) A Variable Cost element, such as the Replacement Operating Contracts (LAM Variable Costs). The variable element is directly linked to the expect tonnages processed via the Facilities, as set out in Schedule 1; and c) The WDA’s own direct costs.
Collectively these costs will be used to determine annual budget requirements, which after application of any reserves, generates a Levy Requirement.
Page- 19 - 65 3. The following table sets out the key design characteristics, and reasons for their inclusion (based on expected 2019/20 costs) using the volumes of Residual Waste and Recycling arisings set out in Schedule 1 in apportioning the Levy.
Key design characteristics Reasons for their inclusion A. District Collected Waste (c £136m, 78.6% of net costs)
1. Retain 4 waste stream approach, based upon:-
i.Comingled/pulpables (as one); Reflects current WCA collection ii.Organics (food and Garden); working practices and ensures costs/environmental benefits from iii.Trade Waste, and improvements are retained.
iv. Residual Waste.
2. Retain year-end adjustments for tonnages Ensures a direct link to (introduced from 2017/18). Adjustments to be at a performance and encourages direct pre-agreed annual rate, reflecting LAM Variable link to benefits of improving Costs of processing (subject to items A3 below). recycling performance. Variable costs are used to match any cost/reductions at a WCA level with broadly corresponding changes in costs paid to the Replacement Operating Contractors.
3. Allocate costs on the basis of an Levy Apportionment Model (LAM) which comprises:-
i. LAM Fixed Costs element (i.e. are related to costs which don’t vary, such as debt charges). These will be allocated to Districts based on adjusted1 2017/18 actual tonnages, and will be reviewed and reset after 5 years for the 2022/23 financial year.
ii. LAM Variable Costs – which reflect marginal processing cost.
4. For WCAs whose recycling falls below the Recycling Minimum Performance Level they will be required Ensures that one District can’t to make an additional levy contribution calculated adversely impact others by reducing
1 An adjustment may be made to Salford City and Trafford Council figures (only) to reflect the part year impact of reduced waste capacity roll out and potential impact of charging for Garden Waste (respectively).
Page- 20 66- by: its recycling performance.
i. expected total Recycling tonnes arisings as per 2017/18 actuals (total Recycling calculated as dc+dp+dg) ii. less actual total Recycling tonnes arisings in In case of Exceptional year Circumstances this additional levy iii. equals additional tonnes of waste to be contribution can be over-ridden by charged the GMCA Treasurer. iv. cost allocation additional sum is additional tonnes of waste multiplied by LAM Fixed Costs per tonne for Residual Waste.
5. Common assumptions to be used in tonnage estimates, as per schedule 1. Ensures that all future year increases are based upon common factors and also ensure re- procurement facilities/capacity are correctly sized.
B. Household Waste Recycling Centres (c. £31m, 17.9% of net costs)
Cost allocation to be based upon: Move is away from 100% based on Council Tax Base (Band D i. 50% Council Tax Base (Band D equivalent) equivalent), to better reflect that usage will be linked to access by ii. 50% Car Ownership (2011 Office of National cars. Statistics census) Validation of these ‘proxy’ designed but subject to a survey of users (in 2018/19) to to reflect usage measures, to be establish the WCA in which they are resident. undertaken by conducting a survey of HWRC site users in the 2018/19 financial year (as part of a Waste Composition Analysis work stream).
Cost allocation factors to be reviewed and amended, as needed, for future years LAM.
C: WDA Own costs (c. £5m, 2.9% of net costs) – including direct costs (such as salaries/running costs)
Equal share to each WCA Costs don’t vary much by activity, and are thus linked to an 11.1% each WCA allocation basis.
D: Non-Key Services (c. £1m, 0.6% of net costs) – this comprises specialised waste services, such as asbestos, plasterboard, clinical waste, dog waste, etc.
Waste arisings No change from the existing basis. It is intended that the majority of ‘regular’ waste will in future be included in the Replacement
Page- 21 - 67 Operating Contracts and thus the value of this element of the LAM will fall further.
4. As soon as practical after the year end an adjustment will be determined by the WDA to vary district Levy allocations to reflect variations in actual costs, income from recyclates and actual tonnages delivered (compared to WCA Forecasts). The WDA will aim to provide the year end Levy adjustment information by the third week of May, at the latest.
5. As part of the annual budget and levy process the WDA will determine and publish the LAM Variable Cost rates which will be made available to the WCA Treasurers. Given the commercial sensitivity of that information it will not be published in an open format, but will be part of the closed budget and levy report, which will be provided on or before the Statutory latest Levy fixing date of 15th February prior to the commencement of each financial year. The 2019/20 Base Financial Model results for those LAM Variable Costs have already been shared.
6 For the WCA declarations for Trade Waste (offices, shops, traders etc.) the WDA will set an annual rate per tonne in accordance with the 2013/14 rate inflated in accordance with the RPIx. An adjustment to the Trade Waste element of the Levy will be carried out as part of the financial year end reconciliation process and any difference between actual WCA tonnages and WCA Forecasts will be made at the pre-agreed per tonne rate.
A review of the Trade Waste area has been commissioned, for completion in 2018/19, and the recommendations from that will be used to inform a review of this paragraph of the LAMA for 2019/20
2018/19 only Transitional Arrangements.
7. The 2017/18 WDA Levy included an additional Levy sum of £77.8m to provide headroom and facilitate the restructuring of the former Waste PFI Contract. That additional Levy sum was allocated to individual WCAs on the basis of the mid 2015 population figures as set out below: -
Mid 2015 Population Bolton 281,619 Bury 187,884 Manchester 530,292 Oldham 230,823 Rochdale 214,195 Salford 245,614 Stockport 288,733
Page- 22 68- Tameside 221,692 Trafford 233,288 2,434,140
8. The additional Levy sum will be fully reimbursed to WCAs in 2018/19 but based on the mid 2016 population numbers. To ensure the impact of the roll forward of population numbers is corrected and adjustment may need to be made, either through the inclusion of an additional factor in the 2018/19 LAMA, or via the GMCA Treasurer’s adjustments on the AGMA budget requirements. The purpose of the adjustment is to ensure that the impact at a district level overall is £nil.
9. A Smoothing Factor will be included for 2018/19 only to cushion the impact of methodology changes. That is calculated by taking ‘half the difference’ of the impact of methodology changes between the 2017/18 IAA basis and 2019/20 full LAMA basis (i.e. average of 2017/18 revised estimate and 2019/20 estimates). That adjustment will be subject to a further change in May 2019 to reflect actual tonnages at the LAM Variable Cost Tonnage rate.
Page- 23 - 69 SCHEDULE 4 Change Control Procedures
A. Change to the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts and WCA Operations from the operations set out in the agreed Service Delivery Plan will be governed by the procedures set out in this Schedule 4
1. Principles
1.1 Where a WCA sees a need for a change to the services provided under the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts affecting a WCA then a WCA may at any time request a change in accordance with the procedure set out in paragraph 2 below.
1.2 The WDA shall not unreasonably withhold its agreement to any change.
1.3 The obligations of the Parties shall not be effected until a Change Control Note has been signed by the relevant WCA and sent to the WDA.
2. Procedure
2.1 The WCA and the WDA shall discuss changes proposed by the WCA and such discussion shall result in:
2.1.1 a decision not to proceed further; or
2.1.2 a written request for a change by the WCA.
2.2 Each Change Control Note shall contain details of the change including, where applicable:
2.2.1 the title of the change;
2.2.2 the originator and the date of the request or recommendation for the change;
2.2.3 the reason for the change;
Page- 24 70- 2.2.4 full details of the change including any specifications;
2.2.5 a timetable for implementation, together with any proposals for acceptance of the change;
2.2.6 the impact, if any, of the change on other aspects of the VC and the Replacement Operating Contracts;
2.2.7 the date of expiry of validity of the Change Control Note; and
2.2.8 provision for signature by the WCA/WDA if the change is agreed.
2.3 For each Change Control Note submitted to the WDA, the WDA shall, within twenty working days from receipt of the Change Control Note, evaluate the Change Control Note and notify the relevant WCA whether the WDA (acting reasonably) agrees to the change.
2.4 A Change Control Note signed by both Parties shall constitute a variation to this Agreement.
B. Amendment to the Agreement
No amendment to or modification of this Agreement (other than an amendment under paragraph A of this Schedule) shall be valid or binding on any Party unless it is made in writing, refers expressly to this Agreement and is executed by all of the Parties.
Page- 25 - 71 Agenda Item 7d
Minutes of a meeting of Cabinet held on 28th November 2017
Minute MANCHESTER AIRPORT GROUP (MAG) STRATEGIC INVESTMENT Number
79. Cabinet considered exempt information relating to the investment proposals to the Manchester Airport Group.
Alternatives considered:
Alternative funding options were outlined in the report. All had inherent disadvantages – additional shareholder loans are considered to be the optimal funding solution. Without further investment, there is a danger of MAG losing ground in a highly competitive market, restricting future growth and income streams.
Decision:
1. That financial support to the Manchester Airport Group (MAG) transformation programme through the form of additional shareholder loans of up to £11.3m be approved;
2. That Council be recommended to approve an increase in capital expenditure of up to £11.3m supported by prudential borrowing to facilitate the shareholder loan;
3. That delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive, Chief Finance Officer and the Assistant Director (Legal, Governance and Workforce) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate and Resources to finalise the detailed arrangements in respect of the loan and to progress the financial and legal work associated with it;
4. That it be noted that extensive due diligence has been completed and the conclusions of that review as set out in section 5.1 of the report and the link to economic development within the region outlined in section 4.2 of the report.
Reason for decision:
The proposal is expected to improve the Council’s revenue position by £0.5m annually over 40 years. Sustainability of projected dividend income streams will also be protected.
The proposal supports economic development in the region, protecting
Page 72 existing jobs and businesses as well as attracting new ones.
Additional work is still required to work through the total loan required, its duration and interest rate, as well as drawing up relevant legal documentation therefore there had been a request for delegation of the final details.
Page 73 Report to Corporate O&S Committee and to the Cabinet
Date of Meeting 21st November 2017 (Corporate O&S) 28th November 2017 (Cabinet) Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources Report Author Victoria Bradshaw For Publication
Manchester Airport Group (MAG) Strategic Investment
Executive Summary
1.1 The report outlines the investment proposals of the Manchester Airport Group to provide the airline capacity and standard of facilities required to secure future business growth and the longer term sustainability of the business.
1.2 To facilitate this, the Greater Manchester Council’s has an opportunity to make further shareholder loans to the company, funded via prudential borrowing.
Recommendation
2.1 Approve the proposals set out in the report, and in particular the recommendations for financial support to the Manchester Airport Group (MAG) transformation programme through the form of an additional shareholder loans.
2.2 Recommend that Council approves an increase in capital expenditure supported by prudential borrowing.
2.3 Delegate authority to the Chief Executive, Chief Finance Officer and the Assistant Director (LGW) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate and Resources to finalise the detailed arrangements in respect of the loan and to progress the financial and legal work associated with it.
Reason for Recommendation
3.1 The airport transformation programme that the loans are supporting should enable the future anticipated dividend rates to be paid. Without the capital investment there is a very real risk that the level of dividend payable will reduce considerably in future years.
1 Page 74 Key Points for Consideration
4.1 Introduction and Background
4.1.1 This paper provides an update on the capital investment by Manchester Airport Group and the associated funding structure, including the proposed shareholder loans.
4.1.2 Following the acquisition of Stansted in 2012, MAG was restructured. Nine districts of Greater Manchester own 29% (3.2% each) of the shares (which are non-voting), Manchester City Council owns 35.5% of the economic interest, which carries 50% of the voting rights in a deadlocked company with Codan Trust Company (Cayman) Ltd as trustee for the IFM investment company which also has 50% voting rights. The acquisition and restructuring gave the potential for higher shareholder returns in an enlarged group with access to a growing market and the potential for future further investment.
4.1.3 Since the acquisition MAG has traded ahead of the Business Plan agreed by the shareholders. Trading has been particularly strong at Stansted driven by increased passenger volumes. This has resulted in Shareholder dividends being significantly ahead of those set out in the Premier Plan. Both airports are now very close to capacity at peak trading periods which will constrain future growth. Stansted has a one off opportunity to take advantage of lack of runway capacity at other London airports.
4.1.4 In order to drive further growth, substantial capital expenditure is required at both Manchester and Stansted. Both airports are in the process of commencing terminal transformation projects which together comprise c£1.5bn of investment.
4.2 Transformation Programme
4.2.1 Manchester Airport is the international gateway to northern Britain, currently handling over 27 million passengers per annum. The airport serves over 200 destinations across the world, more than any other UK airport, and is served by over 100 airlines. Its global reach is demonstrated by the fact that seven flights operate each day to the Middle East, it has two very busy routes to China, which have recently seen increases in frequency and serves a wide range of destinations in North America.
4.2.2 It is the only airport outside London and the South East with two runways and has recently attracted new routes to destinations such as Beijing and San Francisco and has the potential to accommodate an increase from its current level of 27 million passengers per year to 55 million using these existing runways. The transformation project to provide the first class
2 Page 75 terminal facilities in Manchester, which has received planning permission, is an important step to realising this potential.
4.2.3 The transformation programme represents the most significant programme of investment ever made in Manchester Airport and will see the campus developed to provide a world class operation, with significant enhancements to the facilities and to improve the customer experience. The programme includes: The expansion and reconfiguring of Terminal 2 to become the airport’s primary building Improvement to Terminal 3 to cater for increased demand and an expanding flight schedule The introduction of new and enlarged airside transfer facilities, including the direct linkage between Terminals 2 and 3 Improvements to customer facilities including new technology in the two security halls, customer friendly enhancements such as self-service check in facilities and increased food and beverage and retail outlets The introduction of new stands and piers, offering better departure gate facilities
4.2.4 Continued action to support further growth would simultaneously improve international connectivity for the whole of the UK and help to narrow the economic performance gap between the North and the rest of the country. Realising these benefits will require an effective alignment between airports policy and the wider national infrastructure strategy, whereby complementary investments in road and rail are prioritised to support airport growth.
4.2.5 From a jobs perspective over 20,000 people are employed on site at the airport. The airport provides employment to people across Greater Manchester with the largest concentration of employment falling in Wythenshawe, Stockport and Trafford. Onsite employees have been estimated to have an overall wage impact in excess of £260 million pa. (Source: New Economy).
4.2.6 The Manchester Independent Economic Review (MIER) emphasised the role that Manchester Airport plays in supporting the continued economic development of the city region. The MIER Reviewers’ Report indicates that it serves several different functions in Greater Manchester’s economy, which includes providing connectivity to emerging economies, sustaining a large number of jobs across the region and acting as a medium for attracting jobs and talent. The MIER also found that Manchester Airport increases productivity in Greater Manchester, by adding to the overall area offering. In addition the report highlighted the importance of Manchester Airport’s role in supporting the wider supply chain.
4.2.7 Manchester Airport also plays a key role in helping to retain existing companies who want to be located in places that have the maximum level of connectivity. Proximity to Manchester Airport will act as an incentive to them to remain in the area. In a survey of inward investors to Greater Manchester by New Economy, 81.3% of respondents indicated that the
3 Page 76 airport would be either significant or very significant to their business in the future.
4.2.8 A final key benefit is the airport’s role in supporting the growing visitor economy within Greater Manchester and the wider region. Greater Manchester is the third most visited city in the UK and the airport plays a major role in supporting the growing sector of the economy that supports visitors to the region.
4.2.9 Stansted is London’s third largest airport. Since its acquisition by MAG, passenger numbers have grown from 17m to 26m. With Heathrow and Gatwick effectively being full, Stansted is the only major London airport with available capacity, albeit there are relatively few peak slots still available. The transformation plan involves building a new arrivals building at the side of the existing terminal which will provide both additional capacity and enhanced retail space. The estimated cost of the transformation programme is £480m.
4.2.10 As shareholders there is an opportunity for the GM districts to support the funding package that underpins the Transformation Programme through the format of shareholder loans. The investment would be fully in line with the economic objectives for the Council and would promote economic growth and employment opportunities for local residents.
4.3 Alternatives Considered
The Executive could decide not to agree to the loan but this would have implications on the revenue budget and potentially affect the future dividend levels received from MAG which are used to support other Council spending. Alternative funding options have been reviewed, however, shareholder loans are considered to be the best option.
Costs and Budget Summary
4.4 There is also a financial benefit to the Council. As well as the direct return on loan, the airport transformation programme that the loans are supporting should enable the future anticipated dividend rates to be paid. Without the capital investment there is a very real risk that the level of dividend payable will reduce considerably in future years. In 2017/18 £3.4m of airport dividend is supporting the revenue budget. Further detail is provided in the report on the private agenda.
Risk and Policy Implications
5.1.1 Any investment decision has to be underpinned by a thorough assessment of the risks involved and a robust due diligence process. The report on the private agenda sets out the due diligence process, the identified risks and mitigation arrangements.
4 Page 77 5.1.2 From the analysis and work carried out this is deemed to be a good investment for Rochdale and the other districts in Greater Manchester which is aligned to the economic and strategic priorities for GM and will help secure future dividend growth.
Consultation
6.1 The proposals have been discussed at meetings of the ten Greater Manchester Treasurers with all ten indicating their support.
Background Papers Place of Inspection MAG Treasurers Presentation – Tax & Treasury Team, Finance Services, Business Plan & Assurances Floor 2 , Number1 Riverside, Rochdale. (July 2017). GM Core Investment Team Review (August 2017)
For Further Information Contact: Victoria Bradshaw, Tel: 01706 925409, [email protected]
5 Page 78 Agenda Item 7e
Report to Council
Date of Meeting 13th December 2017 Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Resources Report Author Victoria Bradshaw Public/Private Document Public
Capital Programme Prudential Borrowing Requirement
Executive Summary
1. Cabinet on 24th October 2017 agreed to provide a loan of £1.530m (plus any accrued interest) through prudential borrowing, to a third party service provider to fund the development of the Cherwell Village Extra Care apartments in Heywood.
As the prudential borrowing requirement represents a change to the Council’s approved Capital Programme for 2017/2018, the approval of Council is required.
Recommendation
2. That Council approves the prudential borrowing requirement of £1.530m (plus any accrued interest) and the change to the Capital Programme for 2017/2018 in relation to the Cherwell Centre, Heywood.
Reason for Recommendation
3. Council approval is required for any within year changes to the approved Council budget.
Key Points for Consideration
4. As part of its commissioning intentions and its market shaping responsibilities under the Care Act, Adult Care had been working with providers to develop alternative options for accommodation and accommodation with care/support for all service users. One of the alternative options was the development of Extra Care Housing for the 18-64 age range as well as for people aged 65 and over.
4.1 A unique opportunity had arisen in relation to the Cherwell Centre in Heywood and some adjoining land to develop an Extra Care unit that would increase the quality of life and independence of service users and increase the community
Page 79 benefits arising from the Cherwell village complex. By supporting service users to be fully engaged in their local community and by meeting their social inclusion needs at no cost to Adult Care the proposal could reduce the future costs of service provision.
In order for the development to take place it was necessary for the Council to invest in the proposal through the provision of a lease at a reduced rate and a loan to enable the scheme to go ahead.
Alternatives Considered
Not progressing with the proposed scheme could reduce the potential to achieve additional community benefits, improved quality of life for vulnerable people and cost savings for Adult Social Care.
Costs and Budget Summary
5. The Council will loan £1.530m to a third party service provider to fund the development - all borrowing costs (estimated at £83k pa) will be recovered in full from the provider. The proposal is expected to result in a net annual benefit to the Council of £102k via reduced social care support costs.
Risk and Policy Implications
6. The risks associated with the project were considered in the report to Cabinet on 24th October 2017.
Consultation
7. Not applicable.
Background Papers Place of Inspection
8. None
For Further Information Contact:
Page 80 Agenda Item 8a
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE LEADER OF THE COUNCIL AN PORTFOLIO HOLDER FOR REGENERATION TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Regeneration, Communications, Strategic Projects and Greater Manchester Relationships Portfolio.
Once again it appears the recent budget announcement was less than helpful for boroughs such as ours. Although there were some key changes to the controversial Universal Credit there was no mention of police funding. This despite a year which has seen such devastation caused by terrorist-related incidents.
It continues to be crucial we keep a tight control over our budgets, so even though our government grant shrinks year-on-year, we can continue with our number one priority: to protect frontline services – health, social care, education, the environment and community services.
Rochdale continues to grow as a destination of choice for people to live, work and socialise. It is crucial this journey continues in the right direction.
ROCHDALE TOWN CENTRE
Rochdale Riverside (Genr8)
We continue to make good progress with our planned new Rochdale Riverside retail and leisure development. Following the planning application being approved earlier this year, the Council’s development partner has recently completed further extensive site investigations across the site to test the ground conditions prior to starting construction of the scheme in early 2018. The flagship development will bring around 24 shops and restaurants, including Next, a six-screen cinema, 340 parking spaces and will create 1,000 new jobs and boost the local economy annually by £17m. We are concluding negotiations with a number of other tenants to occupy the scheme and we will be announcing these shortly.
Planning permission was also secured for the three listed buildings on Baillie street, which will be redeveloped as part of the project, bringing opportunities for further retailers to set up in these important heritage buildings.
Rochdale Town Hall & Town Hall Square
Although the revised Stage 1 HLF bid for our fantastic Town Hall was unfortunately rejected in April 2017 due to the lack of available funds, we remain committed to safeguarding this stunning architectural gem for future generations. We will be submitting a revised Stage 1 HLF bid in December 2017 and will continue to explore other funding options to restore this Grade 1 Listed Building. We also have plans in the pipeline to improve the Town Hall Square, including public realm Page 81 improvements and the lighting of key heritage buildings. The restoration of the Memorial Garden lamps is the first of these schemes to be completed and the columns are lit up for the first time in almost 40 years. Much of the work was undertaken by local firms. A landscape architect will also be appointed in the new year to create some designs to transform Town Hall Square and better frame the Town Hall and the designs will be put out to public consultation.
Market
The interim market is now well established at its temporary home on Baillie Street, Yorkshire Street and Lord Square, which has also recently been resurfaced in natural stone. This temporary market is operating three days a week and will remain in place until the new market on The Butts is ready for occupation. The site of the new permanent market is in the heart of the historic town centre, next to the recently completed re-opened River Roch, with the capacity to accommodate around 25 to 30 stalls. The planning application for this new outdoor market, and the conversion of the former Santander building to create a small food hall, was approved in September. The Santander building is owned by the Council and the second phase of work to adapt and renovate the property is now well under way.
Town Centre Business Rates & Independent Retail Business Support Scheme
The combination of our innovative Business Rates discount scheme and property renovation grants for independent town centre businesses have made a huge impact to our town centres. Since the launch of the business rates support scheme in Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton town centres last year, there has been a flow of new private sector investments into our towns. A total of nine new businesses have been awarded business rates grants since the scheme was re-launched in July 2016 and are now established across all three town centres. Other applications for the grant are currently being processed.
We are also continuing to provide extra support to new independent retailers by providing a grant of up to £5,000 for fit-out or shop front improvements for eligible retailers at 50% of the total costs of works. Applications are being encouraged from businesses and individuals wishing to establish in our town centres and we have already received interest from a number of property owners and businesses about the new scheme. To date five grants have been approved, including two hairdressers, a café and the refurbishment of the former Wellington Hotel on Drake Street.
In total we have seen 21 new cafes, restaurants and shops all opening on Rochdale's high street recently. This has all contributed towards a significant drop in vacancy levels in the area covered by the schemes, and is a sign of confidence in the town centre with the imminent start of the Rochdale Riverside scheme.
Drake Street
We are working with a number of property owners to increase the supply of good quality residential property and new businesses within the Town Centre, with an initial focus on the Drake Street area. This will increase Town Centre footfall and local spend as well as assisting in meeting new housing targets using previously Page 82 developed sites. Support for seven new high quality apartments in upper floors of the Grade II listed 1 Drake Street has been agreed and work is due to start on the conversion. Two new businesses have opened on Drake Street, in previously vacant premises, Fizz Bomb at 37 Drake Street and Prime Estates at 6 Drake Street, the latter or these also providing two new apartments in the upper floors. Officers have worked closely with the owners of 6 Drake Street to ensure that the property provides an example of excellent design in a high impact section of the Conservation Area.
MIDDLETON TOWN CENTRE
Edgar Wood & Middleton Townscape Heritage Initiative
The restoration of the Edgar Wood Staircase and Exedra in Jubilee Park was completed in the Summer, one of four Edgar Wood properties restored this year. The £600,000 restoration of Wood’s Long Street Methodist School has been approved by the Heritage Lottery Fund and work began in November.
Improvements to Northern Gateway to Middleton Town Centre
The major paving scheme was completed earlier in the year and other public realm works, including the rebuilding of a Victorian retaining wall, reinstatement of railings and landscaping, were completed during the Summer. Building on the success of supporting existing and new businesses in the Conservation Area, planning applications are in for the refurbishment of 10 shopfronts on Long Street and Market Place, supported by property improvement grants. Work will begin in the New Year, following the Christmas trading period.
BUSINESS PARKS
Kingsway Business Park In line with the Council’s desire to promote new business, a planning application has recently been submitted at Kingsway Business Park for 11 small business units, ranging in size from 3,000 to 15,000 square feet. The intention (subject to planning permission) is that construction work will start in Spring 2018 with units available for occupation in early 2019.
Cleland McIver Lifestyle are now operational from their 40,000 square feet unit at Plot K. This is in addition to their existing facility at Smithy Bridge and represents a significant expansion for this local textile manufacturing company.
The JD Sports Distribution Centre extension, which I mentioned in my last report, remains on target to be physically completed in February 2017, followed by an internal fit out period leading to it becoming operational in Autumn 2018.
Stakehill Industrial Estate The Stakehill Highways Working Group held its inaugural meeting in October. This forum gives representatives of businesses on the estate the opportunity to air their views about how to improve issues including parking, security and other highways matters. This is a follow on from the Business Breakfast held in July. I understand that this was a positive meeting, and the views expressed will be incorporated into emerging proposals for the Estate. Page 83 The proposed CCTV scheme is moving nearer to fruition, with consent being secured from a number of businesses across the estate to allow installation of technical equipment on their property. It is hoped that this will be operational in Spring 2018.
OTHER REGENERATION ACTIVITY
M62 J19/South Heywood Area Wide Improvement Programme A further round of public consultation has recently taken place on the proposed link road between Junction 19 of the M62 and Heywood Distribution Park, plus the associated housing and employment space, following the submission of extra information by the applicant. As this application is still being considered by the local planning authority, I don’t propose to comment any further at this stage.
COMMUNICATIONS Communications recently helped deliver the premiere of the ‘Just Someone I Know’ film and educational resource pack, which was developed with M6 Theatre and Kingsway School. It is about children missing in education and wider CSE issues. More than 100 children attended the premiere at Odeon Rochdale. On the same topic, they also recently worked with the BBC to deliver a successful short documentary piece on the Sunrise Team, showcasing its excellent work keeping children at risk of child sexual exploitation and abuse safe. Communications promoted the Make Your Mark campaign with our Youth Cabinet, resulting in a record turnout this year – 8,878 votes (up by over 3,000 on last year). Our Youth MP Sarah Mahmood received the most votes in the North West. The Healthy Heroes childhood obesity campaign has been working on the Daily Toddle (Daily Mile but for pre-school) passport scheme in children’s centres, where children and their families will be encouraged to walk or run a mile a day. It launches in January with a week of events in centres in the four townships. The council’s Healthy Heroes are also involved in the National Child Measurement Scheme and a ‘Give Up Loving Pop’ campaign which will be piloted in four primary schools in January. Members may have read how the #RochDefibs project won a national award. Judges were impressed by the number of defibrillators installed across the borough and the council’s successful social media campaign, which included video training guides. The council website has been selected as a finalist for the Society of IT Management (Socitm) member of the Year. A new section where people can pay fixed penalty notices has been added to the website and the digital services team is working on a new online A-Z of services available across the borough. Communications is also developing a new tourism video which will be used to promote the borough’s main attractions, and the team has helped to market our new small business units, which are almost fully occupied.
Councillor Richard Farnell Leader of the Council Portfolio Holder for Regeneration
Page 84 Agenda Item 8b
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR CORPORATE AND RESOURCES 13th December 2017
1 FINANCE SERVICES
1.1 FINANCE
a) Monitoring of the Current Year: The financial position for the end of September monitoring reports were presented to Cabinet on the 28th November. The projected revenue position of £965k in year saving and the total capital rephrasing of £9.7m are noted in the report. The collection fund as at the same period is reporting a projected £2.0m surplus, £1.8m of this relating to the collection of Council Tax.
b) Budget 2018/19: The implications of the Autumn Budget will be better understood when the provisional financial settlement is received in December. This will all be reflected in the budget update report planned for the 16th January Cabinet.
c) Health and Social Care Integration: The November Integrated Commissioning Board has considered monitoring reports for the Shadow Pool and Better Care Fund. The end of September shadow pool reporting a potential £3.9m overspend for 2017/18, £3.7m of which will be mitigated by the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The Better Care Fund is reporting a revenue surplus of £171k and capital rephrasing of £300k.
1.2 REVENUES AND BENEFITS
a) 63.5% of council tax due in the year has been collected which is the same as this time last year; £2.6m of previous years arrears had also been collected.
b) 62.8% of business rates due in the year has been collected which is 1% ahead of the same time last year.
c) We are focusing on reducing waiting times for claims for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support which are currently at three weeks. We aim to use all of our allocation of funding for Discretionary Housing Payments (£713,000 for 2017/18) and have made 877 awards with a value of £458,137.
1.3 INTERNAL AUDIT
a) Quarter 2 Report 2017/18: A report is due to be presented to the Audit and Governance Committee on 18 December 2017. The report precis shows audits completed across various service areas were being managed effectively.
b) Counter fraud: The key outcomes achieved for the 3 months to 30 September 2017 were as follows:
314 fraud referrals were received with 82% resulting in positive outcomes;
Page 85 A further 5 sanctions have been achieved, consisting of 4 fines for fraud and 1 formal caution; and £52,199 has been identified in terms of additional savings and overpayments which will be recovered.
2 INFORMATION, CUSTOMERS & COMMNUNITIES
a) Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
The Council held a successful Geographic Information Systems (GIS) event on 15th November which showcased mapping systems and highlighted opportunities to inform how the Council and partners work.
Work is underway by BT to replace all IT network connections between council and partner buildings, with this expected to be fully complete by early February.
Our Schools Information Management Systems (SIMS) team received accreditation from Capita on 8th December. Following recommendation for their high quality delivery, they continue to be approached by schools for new contracts.
b) Customer Access
Our Contact Centre is continuing to exceed all performance targets, handling over 50,000 calls and 2,500 emails in October. We are currently implementing a range of actions that will further reduce call volumes by encouraging residents to use the ever-increasing range of Environmental Management and Council Tax services available through our online customer account. Our work in driving customer self- service continues to be recognised, with two local authorities scheduled to visit in December to learn from our successes.
c) Policy and Performance
The Council is planning a resident survey in the New Year. The purpose of the survey is to gather resident views about local services to support the Council in making strategic and operational decisions.
In the New Year, officers will begin planning a process to refresh the Place Plan to ensure that the vision and aims for the borough are fit for purpose. It is also necessary to review our Corporate Plan, which concludes in 2019, so that we are clear about the Council’s role in delivering the vision and meeting wider aims.
d) Place Integration Teams
The Place Integration Teams in College Bank, Lower Falinge and Kirkholt have been working together, focusing engagement and support on residents most vulnerable to crisis. As a consequence of their work, demand for crisis services has gone down by an average of 55% per case. Outcomes vary from securing sustainable employment to secure housing and the drop ins, which include adult learning facilities are being well-used. As well as a wide range of partner agencies, volunteers form an integral part of the work of the integrated public sector team.
Page 86 e) ACE Awards
On 30th November, the Council held its ACE (Awards for Commitment & Excellence) Staff Awards at the Town Hall. There were 402 nominations made by staff, residents, members and partners which outlined the outstanding work that our staff and teams across the Council do. The quality of application was really high and I’m really pleased that so many people took the time to acknowledge our wonderful staff. The event, which had seven categories was supported by a number of sponsors and proved a great success. I’m delighted to say the ACE Awards will continue to be an annual event.
3. GOVERNANCE
a) Elections and Electoral Registration: The annual register of electors has now been published with 162,020 residents now registered, an increase of 2,700 compared to the register at this point last year. Responses to the canvass have similarly increased from 79% to 82% and 644 additional properties have been added to the register. The team continue to work on response rates and I’d like to thank all those who have been involved in the annual canvass for all their efforts, in particular special efforts with regard to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and Nursing Homes.
Thank you to those members who were able to attend the polling review events before each Township meeting. The community knowledge and insight that Members have is invaluable when ensuring that polling arrangements best meet the needs of residents and I’d encourage members to contact the elections team with any suggested alternatives. Work on the review will continue into 2018.
The Boundary Commission for England proposals for new constituency boundaries closed on 11th December.
4. LEGAL
a) Willow Park Development
The team successfully completed the Development Agreement on 7th November 2017. Keepmoate Homes are due to start on site imminently.
b) Dodgson Street Units
Legal agreements now drafted to enable the Council to commence letting the units to start-up businesses.
c) Edgar Wood Building
Located at Long Street School in Middleton, the legal formalities have been dealt with in relation to the Grant to restore the building to its former glory.
5. HUMAN RESOURCES
a) Positive Local Recruitment Policy
Following agreement by Cabinet we are looking to implement this policy from December this year. In accordance with the Council’s procurement requirements quotes have been sought from local suppliers to advertise posts locally in addition to using the Greater Manchester jobs site used for all Council vacancies.
b) Trade Union Engagement and Consultation In addition to the newly formed PageCorporate 87 Joint Consultation and Negotiation Group which is meeting bi monthly, the Council will be meeting with Trade Unions across the Rochdale Health and Care sector to establish the most productive way to consult and engage on developments in the wider Locality with relation to Health and Social Care transformation. They were also granted the right to address Budget Cabinet.
c) Joint Working
The Member-led task and finish study group (formed from Corporate O&S Committee) formed to look at the way absence and wellbeing is managed at the Council and identify opportunities for improvement will report back to Overview and Scrutiny early in 2018. At the request of Members, a joint Member/officer group has also been established to feed into cultural change work we are doing. The group is made up of three Members and three officers (who haven’t had significant involvement with Members). and the group will report back via the Portfolio holder and Head of Workforce.
A joint working group has also been set up between the Council and our recognised Trade Unions to promote learning and maximise the role Trade Unions can play in the Learning agenda
d) Living Wage
The Rowntree Foundation announced on 6th November their Living Wage which has increased to £8.75 per hour from the current £8.45 per hour. A request has been submitted to the Council from the Trade Unions to adopt this and a report will be presented to Cabinet to consider.
Councillor Allen Brett Portfolio Holder for CORPORATE AND RESOURCES
Page 88 Agenda Item 8c
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Environment and Housing Portfolio.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT • Residents across the borough made contact to compliment Environmental Management over 30 times to thank our teams for emptying bins, street cleansing, clean and green teams and parks.
OPERATIONS
Waste • Waste crews are now around 95% full time staff reducing the agency costs significantly it will be 100% in the New Year. • 15 New Refuse vehicles arriving in December and will be in service during the Christmas collection. • Waste have now put into service a dedicated Flats Crew that delivers a weekly recycling to these Flats collections. • The rural waste collection vehicle will be carrying a defibrillator on its rounds.
Streets • Exploring purchasing two walk behind weed rippers which would enable more confined areas of weed growth to be addressed and provide a more cost effective and time saving solution to areas of weed growth which cannot be accessed with a weed ripper. • Training 15 members of staff on weed spraying (PA1/PA6A) who will be responsible for a township area. Meaning more staff on the ground supporting the contractor to address weed growth, giving a faster response time to any weed growth reports. • After the waste recruitment has finished we will be recruiting to vacancies in streets and grounds.
Grounds/Parks • The winter programme is in progress, which includes the cutting back of bushes, edging off and any clearance works. • Dog walking route created at Queen’s park, Heywood which led to a reduction of 89% in incidents of Dog Fouling.
Landscape Team • Sourced an external river cleaning team for Rochdale Town Centre river openings and fountains. Page 89 • Landscape carried out over 150 individual schemes including Township Schemes: • Installing street furniture (Waste bins, benches, signage) • Maintenance of Kingsway Lodges • Bonfires construction, and stewarding • Installation of Christmas Trees • Work on Rights of Way to repair stiles, fix fencing, clear vegetation
SEN Transport Team • Re-scheduled and allocated 122 routes for the forthcoming term for just fewer than 500 children which incorporates 63 new additions.
Crematoria and Cemeteries • Across the borough carried out 269 cremations and 76 burials from 1st October to date.
WASTE AND RECYCLING • Recycling levels continue to exceed last year with the kerbside recycling rate in October at 52.9% versus 51.9% in October 2016 • Recycling Week campaign saw Recycling Officers speak to over 500 residents at 4 supermarket locations across the borough and reach of over 25,000 on social media. • Food waste campaign centred around pumpkins held in Rochdale town centre to engage with residents, reach of over 28,000 on social media. • Freehold Flats have had four new look recycling facilities installed similar to those successfully installed at Lower Falinge. • Bulky Waste amnesty agreed for Middleton and Milnrow and Newhey after a successful initiative in Kingsway and Balderstone and Kirkholt. • Open Space maintenance tasked with separating waste and recycling more which as a result has seen recycling rates increase from around 25% to 88% in this area. • Recycling Officers visited over 1,100 residents in October to educate and help with recycling.
PUBLIC REALM • Successful launch of joint high visibility town centre patrols by the Town Centre Enforcement Wardens working in partnership with GMP/PCSOs • Successful multi-agency operation at Corporation Road, Sparth resulting in removal of abandoned vehicles and several on-going investigations for partner agencies • All usual patrols, investigations, visits, FOIs, IRs and enforcement/ASB activities are on-going. These have resulted in the following headline figures for the quarter to date: • 21 Fixed Penalty Notices issued • 4 paid cautions • 5 referrals to legal services for prosecution • 2 unlawful traveller encampments removed • 25 statutory notices served • 50 warnings issued
Page 90 GREEN SPACES 37 North West In Bloom Awards. Full list of Awards attached which shows the range of Wards won by the partnership – businesses, community organisations, charities and The Council. Key Awards in terms of Council contribution: • Retained Gold Medal; Awards for Heywood and Rochdale. • Heywood Town Centre Gold and Rochdale Town Centre Silver Gilt • Upgraded Pennines from Silver Gilt last year to Gold Medal this year • Rochdale Township nominated by North West in Bloom to nominate the region at the National Awards in 2018 – the first time we have ever qualified for the National Awards schemes (Bury have gone every year for last 8 years) • Gold medal for Queen’s Park and first time entrants Hopwood Park, Heywood and Jubilee Park, Norden Silver Gilt medals • Hollingworth Lake Gold medal in the large tourist attraction category Denehurst Park 1st phase park improvement works completed (path network upgraded, CCTV, drainage, dangerous walls rebuilt, orchard planted, formal gardens restored, urgent tree work carried out)
HEALTH & SAFETY and TECHNICAL COMPLIANCE TEAM • EM New Accident/Incident Procedure adopted • EM Absence Management Procedure adopted • Draft Occupational Road Risk Policy written • Driver Licence Checking Procedure written
PROPERTY, HIGHWAYS & FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
PROPERTY
Technical Dodgson Street Industrial Units completed within budget and are all now leased out generating income for RBC Additional FRA’s are being requested by various schools which are being completed in house AMG capital projects currently on site Stansfield Hall primary re roof now complete Technical looking into potential new SLA customers (selling our services to private providers) Fixed Wiring/Asbestos, Surveys/FRA’s/service, contracts/design/project management etc. GMP merit awards given to Technical/NOR for our contribution in arranging facilities for GMP in the demonstrations that occurred earlier in the year Technical received nominations for Team award and also individual nominations for Mark Raynor senior electrical engineer and Fabio Correia young employee of the year Technical are picking up direct commissions from schools ranging from designing muga pitches to building classroom extensions
Number One Riverside Due to feedback after an Autism Conference in the training and conference suite we received feedback that in the public toilets on the ground floor that it could be confusing for anyone with learning difficulties to identify the exit door. Page 91 FM have placed a bespoke Exit sign on the exit door which includes Braille to support all visitors. The Building team within N1R were nominated for team of the year There were 5 individual nominations for employee of the year
Managed Property Services MPS have made a commitment to help develop young people’s skills by creating a number of apprenticeship opportunities within their team. Following on from the successful completion of an earlier electrical apprenticeship the team have now taken on a further two apprentices: Business Support Apprentice – Term 18 months Electrical Apprentice – Term 48 months In addition to providing an extensive reactive & planned maintenance service to all the Council’s properties and schools, the team continues to provide a service to: Home Improvement Agency - Assisting in the installation of minor adaptations which includes access ramps, stair bannisters etc. Burglary Reduction Team – The installation of security devices in homes which have been targeted by crime.
Capital Projects The majority of the Schools Capital Maintenance Programme for 2017/18 has been successfully delivered over the summer holidays and the team is now concentrating on the delivery of the AMG programme of work due for delivery by end of the year. Two additional place planning schemes at Whittaker Moss Primary School and Andrew’s CE Primary School are on site. The team is continuing with design and procurement of three further school expansions at Woodland, Boarshaw and Littleborough Primary Schools. The former Quaker Burial site at Ball Street has been restored. After successful delivery of the Dodgson Street site, Capital Projects are working with Technical and the RDA to develop the Bradfern site off Oldham Road. The service continues to advise Planning on development valuations to assist Section 106 assessments.
HIGHWAYS
Capital Programme and Delivery The detailed design of the £25m South Heywood Junction 19 Link Road project is currently ongoing, with an anticipated commencement on site in late 2018/early 2019 and a construction period of 2 years. The route is now fixed and was submitted for full planning approval in November 2016. The Baillie Street/Yorkshire Street public realm improvement works are now complete. The project involved the provision of a high quality area of public realm using natural stone footway products and includes the provision of a rising bollard system to prevent illegal vehicular access to further enhance the area for pedestrians. We have completed the following footway reconstruction works as part of the agreed 2017/18 Highway Capital Programme: Page 92 Mavis Grove, Milnrow Spencer Lane, Rochdale Westward Ho, Milnrow Magdala Street, Heywood Clement Royds Street, Rochdale Shelly Avenue, Middleton Eastfield Avenue, Middleton We have completed the resurfacing of the A58 Yorkshire Street, Rochdale (from the Townhead junction to Entwisle Road) and Rochdale Road East, Heywood We are currently completing the resurfacing of Queensway, Rochdale as part of the £1M fund allocated to improving the boroughs roads by the Leader of the Council. In addition to these works our engineers are currently preparing for the resurfacing of the Edinburgh Way/A627(M) junction, Rochdale The Boroughwide carriageway patching programme is almost complete with our teams working in the final Township of Middleton. All patching works are expected to be completed by Christmas this year. Works are ongoing to identify and replace defective gullies across the borough. We are also assessing known areas of flooding to carry out works to alleviate such problems. We are currently finalising the condition of our highway network to enable us to prepare a 3 year forward capital works programme.
Bridges, Structures & Asset Management Since my previous report the following schemes are at design or procurement stage: Oldham Road Canal Bridge Strengthening, Rochdale Ogden Lane Retaining Wall No.3. Ashworth Road Landslide, Rochdale: Following the landslip, we have undertaken site investigation work at the site to determine ground conditions and acceptable bearing capacities. This will enable us to identify a suitable solution. We have identified a number of possible solutions that we will investigate in detail once the ground conditions have been confirmed. Broad Lane flag on edge retaining wall replacement. We are on site or have completed the following work on site Bolton Road Retaining Wall Refurbishment Crossfield Close Footbridge replacement, Littleborough Woodhouse Lane Retaining Wall Repairs, Norden and Bamford Whitelees Road Retaining Wall, Littleborough - Complete
Highways Maintenance Since 1st April 2017 the maintenance team in conjunction with our term contractor have: Cleaned 31053 out of a grand total of 44,000 gullies plus attended to approximately 1400 reported blocked gullies Undertaken or scheduled a total of 7894 highway patch repairs. Inspected approx. 1,700 utility companies excavations on our highway network Received and responded to 715 service requests from the public and over 500 from elected members
Page 93 Winter Maintenance The winter maintenance period commenced mid-October with the core period running between 27th November 2017 and 25th February 2018. We review weather data from the Met Office and our own weather stations to enable us to determine the correct treatment for the network. We maintain over 4500t of salt at our Princess street depot and through our term service contractor, we have access to a modern, well maintained fleet of gritting wagons ready to treat the network with 1hrs notice.
Network Improvement, Developing and Flooding The team continues to improve and develop the highway network which includes working closely with our planning department to ensure the network is protected from new developments. Notable areas where the team is working are: Working with the RDA to help deliver the Rochdale Riverside development. Continuing to monitor all Section 38 and 278 agreements (Developer improvements to the existing highway and new roads) both approving submissions and supervising construction works on site to ensure adoptable standards are maintained to minimise future maintenance and liability issues for the council. Developing transport planning solutions for the borough wide highway network to maximise future external funding opportunities. Work is complete to install cycle parking in the following parks; Limefield Park – Middleton Hopwood Park – Heywood Hollingworth Lake Park – Rochdale Springfield Park – Rochdale A new access to Lincoln Close from Oldham Road has been designed and is expected to start on-site during January 2018 and a March completion which will help provide increased vehicular access to Rochdale Railway Station.
Car Parking The team continues to enforce all waiting restrictions across the borough, additionally our camera car and officers continue to patrol outside schools during start and end times. Our Civil Enforcement Officers,are due to commence wearing body cameras which are similar to the Town Centre Inspectors and Wardens apparel. Our Pay & Display Machines are now becoming expensive to maintain due to their age and as a result, over the next two years we plan to replace all our Pay and Display machines. We have just placed an order for eleven new machines which will be installed within the next 6 to 8 weeks.
STREET LIGHTING We continue to monitor the performance of the PFI Service Provider so they provide a high quality service and that the street lighting infrastructure is maintained to the required standard to ensure the longevity and performance of the assets. We are continually reviewing current technology and will be using LED lanterns Page 94 that align with the PFI contract and are more efficient which will further reduce the Councils energy consumption and CO 2 emissions, where dimming technology is currently been used. The routine maintenance for all assets is carried out on a 4 year program, where the annual regime runs from January to December as of November (to date) the program is 95 % complete and on schedule. The street lighting service provider has taken an average of 2.93 days to repair a street light and the average percentage of lights working was 99.20 % for this period (to date) We have successfully tendered the installation and removal of the Christmas lights on a 2 year contract with the option for a I year extension, which has enable us to make efficiencies so we can invest in the infrastructure to improve the longevity of the existing displays and improve in the future programming of the displays. We continue to work with colleagues on street lighting associated works and reviews in relation to capital projects, Junction19, Section 38 and 278’s, planning applications, feature lighting, Britain in bloom, asset management and highway maintenance We have worked with colleagues within the Council, Rochdale Development Agency, The Street Lighting Service Provider (Eon) and external local providers in the recent commissioning of the feature lighting on the Cenotaph (Rochdale Town Centre), The John Bright Statue and Morris Minor Feature.
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
Town Hall - Mayoral Mayoral apprentice Nazam Suleman was offered a permanent position within the Mayoral office. He was nominated for “Apprentice of the Year” and attended the celebrations at the Town hall on 10 November. Unfortunately he was unsuccessful in winning the title, however it is a huge achievement to go as far as three finalists. He is also nominated for “National Apprentice of the Year” to be held in London March 2018. Once again he is a finalist and we wish him well. The Mayoral office has arranged several events to help raise funds for the Mayor’s charities. These events also raise awareness of the Town Hall. The Mayoral office arrange a “Mayoral Commendation” one per month is possible, recently we have invited a local group “Angie’s Angels” who work hard to obtain household items, food, clothing and this is distributed to people in need / ex forces who have fallen on hard times. We invite them to join the Mayor and Mayoress for afternoon tea and we present them with a Mayoral Certificate. A scout, Matthew Rush, was also invited with some family and scout leaders to recognise his brave act, he had received the Meritorious Conduct Medal for attempting to save 2 lives. We have invited many other worthy people, from Underwater Hockey winners to Doris White who celebrated her 100th birthday. The office is proud to have organised the Remembrance Service which took place in R/dale on the Saturday and throughout the borough on the Sunday. All were very well attended. One of the Mayoral events recently was “MP Dinner”. This was held in Town Hall with over 160 guests. Sir Bill Cash was in attendance as guest speaker. During the day we organised a visit for Sir Bill and Lady Cash to the new renovated Quaker burial ground in R/dale. Bill was so delighted with his visit to Page 95 R/dale he has mentioned us in his report when back in the Houses of Commons.
Facilities Management The catering team at Lowerplace Primary School have been rated as one of the top 10 schools in the country by Education Business. Stansfield Hall school have recently converted from a satellite kitchen to a production kitchen, which has enabled FM to create a new post within the school and enhance the quality of the food served. The cleaning team at Number One Riverside have been shortlisted for the nominee of Team of the Year award, and Tim Rogerson one of the volunteers at the Town Hall supporting the building team has been shortlisted for Volunteer of the Year Ace Awards.
Town Hall Events We continue to be very highly rated by all our customers. The Town Hall currently scores 4½ out of 5 on TripAdvisor, 5 out of 5 on Facebook, 4.3 out of 5 on Google and 5 out of 5 on Hitched.co.uk. Clock Tower Dining Room also scores highly. A recent customer survey returned an average score of 4.75 out of 5 for general satisfaction. It is also rated 4.9 out of 5 on Facebook, 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor and 4.5 out of 5 on Google. The Town Hall is growing in popularity as a venue for all kinds of events. Between October and December, the town hall has/will host: “Our Town”, performed my Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre Rochdale Business Awards, the Ace (Staff) Awards and Matthew Moss High School Awards Night • Rochdale’s Man of the Year dinner • Dickensian-themed Murder Mystery dinner • Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch On and Festive Market • The 3rd Annual Rochdale Beer Festival • Two Literature and Ideas Festival events • Nine weddings of various sizes • Wizard Academy children’s theatre show • Numerous private Christmas parties for local charities and businesses • NHS Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event • NWABBA Brass Band Contest • Civic Carol Service Plus many more smaller events and meetings The Town Hall hosts its 2nd ever Christmas party in December. It was originally planned to be held over two nights but due to phenomenal demand, three extra nights of our Wizarding Christmas Spectacular were added and all have now sold out. Peaky Blinders, series 4 has begun to air on BBC 2. The Town Hall featured in the opening scene and looked fantastic in its part of this world-famous production.
STRATEGIC HOUSING
Discretionary Crisis Fund and Local Welfare Provision Page 96 For the first 7 months of the 2017/18 financial year, the DCF has supported 443 vulnerable residents, with 2,728 individual items totalling £146,269. 10% of items awarded were for emergency items such as fuel vouchers, emergency clothing, travel etc and, 90% were for awards to support resettlement (white goods and essential household items).
Universal Credit Data Full Service Universal Credit will go ‘live’ in the borough on February 14th next year. This will see most benefit claimants being moved over to Universal Credit. Officers in Strategic Housing are working with the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to help raise awareness; this includes a number of training sessions for Council officers delivered by the DWP. The total caseload of Universal Credit claims at 31st October 2017 was 4,068. The proportions of claimants are as follows; 27% Middleton, 18% Heywood, 55% Rochdale 29% aged 16 to 24, 61% aged 25 to 49, 10% aged 50 and over 60% not in employment, 40% in employment
Affordable Housing The Homes and Communities Agency have confirmed AHP grant funding for the proposed Ramsey Street development of 12 new build 3 and 4 bed dwellings. Regenda are now liaising with the Estates and Legal to gain the necessary licences to start site investigations. Discussions are ongoing with all RPs within the Borough to look for future Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) bids with the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).
Housing Development The Strand -The construction works are progressing well on site at and the contractor is working in line with their programme. The work to the apartments and retail units is on schedule, with the brick and block work completed up to the second floor lift. The roof is scheduled for installation at the start of November 2017. Willow Park – Planning Committee approved the scheme in October and Keepmoat are now on site undertaking diversion works. Hilltop – Property services are arranging for the wind turbine to be removed as per the agreement with Gleeson’s. Balderstone – Gleeson’s are now on site.
Empty Properties In the period 1st April 2017 to 17th November 2017: The number of properties brought back into use is 512 The continued monitoring of the empty property system has increased the level of contact with empty property owners with a total of 843 owners provided with advice and assistance. 43 owners of longer term empty properties have been advised the Council is considering enforcement action and 12 have been issued with Empty Dwelling Management Order notices. 4 applications have been made to the Residential Property Tribunal, 1 application has been granted and 3 applications are currently pending
Page 97 Energy Efficiency The bid submitted for external funding that allows for properties without gas supplies to be connected to the mains gas network, including full gas central heating systems has been successful. The opportunity to utilise ERDF funding through AGMA for the installation of advanced monitoring equipment and home insulation is still being explored. Members will be kept informed of the progress of the bid. Further discussions have taken place with the Co-operative society’s energy company to find ways of working in partnership to deliver energy advice.
Private Rented Sector The Private Rented Sector team has dealt with 43 repairs and complaints reported by private sector tenants during this quarter. The team have also dealt with 10 attempted revenge evictions, during this quarter, where landlords have attempted to gain possession of their property through illegal means. The Partnership Enforcement Team of which Housing are an operational lead have been successful in obtaining funding for 2 years from the CLG Controlling Migration Fund to tackle rogue landlords and businesses in out of hours operations 3 applications have been reviewed for suitability to HMO. 71-73 Long Street application was refused for a number of reasons including aspects relating to the proposed facilitates and amenities not meeting the required standards for a third time 2 Further HMO applications have been returned due to insufficient space standards
Homelessness Much of the current emphasis is aimed at gearing up to the introduction of the Homelessness Reduction Act in April. This will bring in additional duties to assist all households at risk of becoming homeless. The council is also working collaboratively with GM partners to support initiatives aimed at reducing rough sleeping. Council departments will need to work together with all partners to support people through prevention initiatives. Strategic Housing will be holding an information event on 26th January to raise awareness and increase understanding about how services will need to work towards supporting individuals at risk. Key activity is trying to increase access to affordable housing options to help people that are at risk of losing their home and to assist people to move on from emergency accommodation.
CORONERS HOSTED SERVICE There continue to be a number of challenges facing the Coroners service that we host for Rochdale, Oldham and Bury. There is a national shortages of trained pathologists who undertake post mortem work and we are investigating new modern approaches with the Coroner that uses scanning technology. This approach is being increasingly adopted nationally and we are working in collaboration with other Greater Manchester Councils to see how this can be
Page 98 progressed. Currently approximately half of the deaths (around three thousand) that occur in the three boroughs require reporting to the Coroner. Members may recall that it is proposed that all deaths in the future will be reviewed by a medical examiners service that the Council will run. It has been confirmed that this will commence mid 2019 so we are planning our approach to this. The likelihood is that this service will sit close to if not alongside the Coroner and I will provide further updates as this develops. REGISTRATION AND CELEBRANT SERVICES Members will be aware that we deliver the registration of births and death in Partnership with the General Register Office. The Registrar General has introduced some new statutory fees that include paying £75 for fault corrections to certificates and short birth certificates will no longer be free and will cost £4.00. These new fees are in recognition of the cost to authorities for some of the Registration work currently provided free of charge.
Councillor Neil Emmott Portfolio Holder for Environment and Housing
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Environment and Housing Portfolio
Page 99 Agenda Item 8d
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR THE BUSINESS, SKILLS AND EMPLOYMENT PORTFOLIO TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Business, Skills and Employment Portfolio.
Business
Rochdale Development Agency continues to provide comprehensive business support through a single point of contact for both local companies and inward investors. In the first 2 quarters of this year, 31 businesses have received additional support from the Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub. RDA have assisted 4 new inward investors, 2 from Oldham and 1 from Stockport and Altrincham, which located in Middleton (2), Kingsway and Heywood. Eleven existing businesses in the borough were helped to expand or relocate, safeguarding 337 local jobs.
More recently, industrial and commercial property enquiries have started to increase with many relating to the Council’s new units on Dodgson Street. The RDA worked extensively with an Oldham engineering business which has just relocated into Heywood. They have brought with them 22 employees and will grow this to 30 within the next 12 months. During the last 2 months several networking events have been attended to promote the RDA’s services. These have included working with the Football Club and Molesworths Solicitors.
In October I was invited to visit JD Sports alongside Tony Lloyd MP. We had a tour of the current premises and saw the building work being undertaken on their extension. They currently employ 1800 staff on the site, with this set to grow further once the building work is completed and the unit is fully operational in early 2019.
Again with Tony Lloyd, I attended a business breakfast with some of our key businesses from across the borough. Various topics were discussed including; how businesses can work closer with schools to attract young people into industry and the uncertainty caused by Brexit.
Last month saw the 7th Annual Rochdale Business Awards, a great event celebrating businesses of all sizes and from all sectors. Over 300 people attended the dinner and I was pleased to see that Barnes Logistics won Business of the Year, having only moved into the borough around 18 months ago.
Working with STaR Procurement, 4 workshops for local businesses have been held to promote the Local Investment Project which the Council aims to significantly increase the amount of goods and services purchased locally and simplify the procurement processes. Businesses are given help to ensure they are tender-ready and registered to receive alerts to suitable opportunities.
In October we held an ‘Innovation in Action’ event with the Business Growth Hub where businesses found out about the range of innovation support including access to resources from the Greater Manchester Universities, series of masterclasses and one to one support, an innovation vouchers. Businesses also heard from local community interest company, Rochdale Circle, and their experience of support through the Innovation Service.
The Council-supported Town Centre Management companies have been involved in a Page 100 number of initiatives and events over the past few months. In Rochdale the focus has been on Rochdale in Bloom, Rochdale Beer Festival and planning for New Year Eve activities. They have also been heavily involved in the Big Change initiative to reduce begging in the town centre and have supported the initial Business Improvement District feasibility work.
Middleton Town Centre Management Company has also been busy with seasonal events including Oktoberfest, Halloween Heritage Trail and Christmas lights switch on. This is in addition to their regular business liaison and promotion work. The new Town Centre Manager Victoria Davies has started and has been getting to know the business community.
As part of the build up to Small Business Saturday on 2nd December, some of the best small businesses from across the borough came together for a celebration of their contribution to local life, with a visit from the national Small Business Saturday bus. Rochdale was one of only 29 stops for the bus across the UK to host the bus, which stopped off to offer free, expert advice to businesses and celebrate their success. Most of ‘The Rochdale 30’, local independent businesses who nominated themselves as part of the borough’s celebration of Small Business Saturday, gathered at the bus, before receiving a special thank-you from the Deputy Mayor for their hard work. Jake Berry MP, the Northern Powerhouse Minister also visited the bus and the Leader and Chief Executive took the opportunity to bend his ear on local investment needs. On Small Business Saturday businesses are being encouraged to offer special deals on the day, people will be encouraged to try their local small independent shops and there will be a craft market in the Rochdale Exchange Shopping centre.
Skills and Employment
The latest employment data shows a very slight improvement in the employment, unemployment and claimant count rate with the number of 18-24 year old age group claiming out of work benefits at its lowest for 2 years. However, there are still significant gaps between the performance of Rochdale compared to the GM, regional and national rates.
It has been confirmed that Rochdale along with other Greater Manchester partners has been awarded funding through the Controlling Migration Fund (CMF) to work with new arrivals to support them with improving their English and integration into the community. This will provide opportunities for some of our existing volunteers to now be paid to deliver some of the sessions. This project will be embedded into the current Talk English model and will provide funding for a further two years regardless of other funding through the DCLG being available.
We have provided a small pot of funding to Rochdale Connections Trust to deliver a project for parents that have had their children taken into care. This project will build on the success of the previous courses supported by the council for some of the most vulnerable parents to move into paid employment, helping to have more stable lives and reduce the risk of children remaining in care.
We are also supporting a course for a group of female ex-offenders through a joint partnership with Probation and Petrus and delivered by a local charity called Key to the Door. The women on the project have a number of issues and have been identified as some of the hardest to engage by both Probation and Petrus, who have struggled in the past to provide meaningful learning opportunities for these women. Some of the women have already made significant improvements and have made the first steps towards
Page 101 changing their lifestyles.
Employment Links, the Councils’ service to support local residents into jobs is working with several inward investors and expanding companies. The team has won the ‘Provider of the Year’ award for the Skills for Employment Programme across Greater Manchester and team member Jill Simpson won ‘contribution of the Year’. ELP was also recognised at the awards for their work with Middleton based Mantra Training, inward investor Kleeneze, and with parents at Children’s Centres across the borough.
A significant amount of work is underway across Greater Manchester to combine health and employment support as part of the Devolution Deals. Led by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Health and Social Care Partnership, current workstreams are:
- ‘In Work’ – led locally by Link4Life and supported employers to improve the health and wellbeing of their staff
- ‘Early Help’ to support those employed but at risk of falling out of work and replace the National Fit for Work Service which hasn’t been effective locally and is not well used by local GPs or employers.
- ‘Work and Health’ – a new £52m contract across greater Manchester has been awarded to Inwork GM to start in January for three years to provide support for the long term unemployed with poor health or disability
- ‘Care and Support’ – to improve employability and wellbeing of people with enduring and complex health conditions and will replace funding streams due to finish at the end of March 18 which Adult Care and the DWP commission.
The Economic Affairs Team lead on two workstreams and support colleagues in Adult Care and Public Health with the others.
Councillor Peter Williams Portfolio Holder for Business, Skills and Employment
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Business, Skills and Employment Portfolio
Page 102 Agenda Item 8e
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR CHILDREN’S SERVICES TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Children’s Services Portfolio.
Family Services Model
Significant progress has been made on the implementation of the Family Services Model, which is the Children’s Programme in The Locality Plan. Rochdale has been recognised at GM level for its leading work in relation to system change within services for families. Funding secured from the Transformation Fund that is linked to the Locality plan has enabled us to recruit a small core team in each of the 4 localities (based in each Township), to enable and support early help staff across a range of agencies. This includes schools, NHS organisations, council, housing providers and the voluntary sector to deliver early help effectively and so reduce the number of families experiencing crises. The expectation is this will also reduce demand on specialist services. The 4 early help localities will be launched w/c January 22nd along with the redesigned Single Point of Access. This Single Point of Access will have the capacity and skill set to support early help practitioners to provide multi agency support whilst also providing a single point of contact if there are safeguarding or significant mental health concerns. Members who wish to attend any of the launch events during that week would be very welcome.
A key part of our aim to ensure that children and young people and families get the “right help at the right time” is to provide help and support when problems or difficulties first start to emerge. To support this we have also re-shaped the MASS (Multi-agency Screening Service) as part of the implementation of the Family Services Model. The MASS has been expanded to include social workers, practitioners from health services and Healthy Young Minds as well Family Support Workers. By drawing upon expertise from across the partnership we will be able to make more timely decisions and provide support and intervention to families at the earliest opportunity. In addition, practitioners will be providing advice and support to staff working in universal and targeted settings and in this way we will build capacity and confidence across the partnership. This element of the FSM went live this month and I will report further on progress and impact in subsequent reports.
Corporate Parenting
Making sure our Cared 4 Children have the opportunity to achieve and meet their potential remains a key priority for the service and Council. I am delighted to report that this year we have seen our best performance to date in relation to the number of Care Leavers at University with 19 care leavers currently undertaking courses. We hope that this experience and opportunity will be the pathway for further success in the future.
Support for young Offenders
As part of our work to support and prevent re-offending we have re-shaped the Youth Offending Service and strengthened the prevention arm in particular. This has included putting an operational board in place to drive forward actions on the ground, strengthening links and engagement with Community Safety Partnership operational arrangements and the recruitment of Police Officers dedicated to the YOS. The outcome of these changes has been that we have seen a substantial drop to 19 young people entering the youth justice system for the first time (FTE), so far this year (half year stage), compared to 111 in 2015/16 (full year). Work will continue to maintain this level of progress. Page 103 Educational Outcomes for Pupils EYFS % achieving a good level of development
These outcomes are disappointing taking account of the year on year improvement in outcomes which occurred from 2012 – 2016. 64% of pupils attained a good level of development at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage. This result is 1% higher than last year, but is 4% below the North West average and 7% below the national average. This has required a re-examination and review of the Early Years strategy in collaboration with service providers in order to drive forward improvement in order to achieve a higher level of performance.
KEY STAGE 1
Key stage 1 outcomes have improved when compared to the previous year with more pupils attaining reading, writing and mathematics combined. External analysis identifies significant rises to have been made with strong progress between the end of the Early Years and Key stage 1. 60.2% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined. This is a 4% improvement when compared with the previous year.
KEY STAGE 2
Key stage 2 outcomes have improved in comparison with the previous year however in some areas this is below the national rate of improvement. Progress in mathematics and writing is evidenced to be significantly greater than the national averages however progress in reading is of concern. For reading, writing and mathematics combined, 55% of pupils met the expected standard compared with the national average of 61% and the North West average of 60%. This figure is affected by the reading score. Reading remains a key challenge and strategies are focused on addressing this with schools, given the importance of this in driving forward progress in other areas.
KEY STAGE 4
Significant changes have taken place to the accountability measures at key stage 4 in the last twelve months. In English and in mathematics, a 1-9 grading scale has been introduced. Grade 4 is a standard pass and grade 5 is a strong pass. Changes to the accountability system make it difficult to make a direct comparison with outcomes for the previous year. 55.3% of young people attained a grade 9-4 in English and in mathematics, this is 3.2% below the national average and 7% below the North West average. 33.1% of young people attained a grade 9-5 in English and mathematics; this is 6% below the National and North West averages. Attainment Eight measures students’ achievement in their best eight GCSEs awarding an average point score per pupil (APS.) The Attainment 8 score for the local authority is 42.2. This represents a decrease of 6 points. Progress Eight measures the progress students have made. The LA Progress Eight score is -0.17 compared with the national of -0.03 and the North West of -0.14. This evidences a decrease on the Progress Eight score for 2016 of -0.08. Key stage 4 results were disappointing. Work is underway with the Pioneer Trust to examine the reasons behind those schools that did not reach expected levels of attainment, and to address this through reviewing and strengthening the school improvement strategy.
Page 104 Attainment at A-Level
The overall pass-rate in 2017 was 98.3% which is 3.5% higher than the 2016 pass- rate of 94.8%. This is better than the national pass rate of 97.9%. The percentage of A-Level entries gaining grades A* and A in 2017 was 22.6%, an increase of 1.1% on the 2016 percentage of 21.5%. The average points-per-entry in 2017 was 32.1, which is up 6 points on the 2016 average points-per-entry of 26.1. Performance across the board is positive and represents continued improvement.
Admissions
The primary admissions process for September ‘18 is now open and parents are required to submit their child’s application by 15th January 2018. I would be grateful if members could encourage constituents in all areas to complete their application forms on time to aid the team to appropriate allocate the places. The Admissions Team continues to host weekly ‘drop in’ sessions on Tuesday mornings 10-12pm. The last drop in session will be Monday 14th January 2018; these sessions are for those parents that would like support in completing the online application.
Councillor Donna Martin Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Children’s Services Portfolio
Page 105 Agenda Item 8f
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR ADULT SOCIAL CARE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Adult Social Care Portfolio.
I remain very satisfied with the progress we have made in some key areas of Adult Care. In particular, Members will have heard about the national problem with delayed discharges from hospital. In our borough we continue to be one of the best local health and social care economies across England in this area of work and we remain one of the better performing councils in the country. Our Discharge to Assess model is also having a positive impact on the delayed discharges and further initiatives will further consolidate this improving trend. Other areas of good performance to report to you include:
Our strong result in getting more people taking up the option of a cash budget; 32% of our service users now have a cash budget which is double our performance 2 years ago and has out performed our expectations for this year. This is an important indicator in terms of our response to the requirements of the Care Act in terms of promoting choice.
From national surveys from 2016/17, our overall performance has been excellent. The results are based on service user views and are a solid basis to judge if we are getting it right. For overall satisfaction, 70% of service users were either extremely or very happy with the service we deliver. This was a 4% increase on the previous year.
As part of our move to more integrated services with health we have recently purchased some new software for the management of personal health budgets. This ‘Resource Allocation System’ will be used to calculate an indicative budget for Health staff to use to support plan for health needs. This will enable us to pay an integrated personal budget to service users who have both health and social care needs.
We are working more collaboratively and listening to care home providers. For example we have historically paid our contribution to a residential placement net of the client contribution. The homes have then collected the client contribution on our behalf. This practice was discouraged in the Care Act and we have started a project to change this so that we pay the homes gross. This change has been welcomed by care homes as it makes life easier for them.
We have recently had some success following tenacious work around the collection of long standing outstanding debt. One debt alone was £117k that we finally got repaid following some really great working across departments including finance and legal services.
We are also making progress in developing the market in Adult Social Care. We have recently commenced a tender process which will bring the commissioning of home care services in line with the six integrated neighbourhood teams that are being developed as part of our transformation plan. Our expectation is that the main providers will take a leadership role in relation to home care’s contribution to the Page 106 neighbourhood approach and become key partners in the neighbourhood in which they work. This will support the ambitions of the transformation plan and the sustainability of the home care market in the future.
In addition we have selected a provider for the delivery of the Dementia hub and residential care services for people with dementia from what was the Springhill Resource Centre.
Our newly commissioned universal carers’ service goes from strength to strength with 194 previously ‘hidden’ carers being identified and supported, 211 one to one support sessions facilitated, 70 support groups and coffee and chat sessions attended by 515 carers, 60% of carers completing the measurement tool reported improved wellbeing and reduced isolation and 80% reported improved access to information and advice about their caring role as a consequence of engaging with the service.
We however continue to be challenged by the move towards the evolving Local Care Organisation or LCO which is expected to be in place by the end of march 2018 and we are challenged in a in a few key areas of performance for example only a small number of the people with learning disabilities who are supported by adult social care also have a job. Although we are outperforming regional averages, in the coming year we would like to increase this, and especially to focus on young adults where the opportunity to get a job will affect the rest of their lives.
I was delighted to be invited to the National Carers Rights Day on Friday 24th November. It was an excellent event and very well attended by carers of all ages.
Finally I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the work done by Shelia Downey the Director of Adult care for the last 7 and a half years. Sheila has helped in the transformation of our services through several very challenging years of austerity and cuts to budget. She leaves a wonderful legacy of quality services which are appreciated by the public we all serve and a skilled staff group able to face the challenges ahead largely due to the vision and leadership she has provided. She has also kept to budget! She will be missed by us all and particularly myself and Billy my deputy for her constant support and help.
Councillor Iftikhar Ahmed Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Adult Social Care Portfolio
Page 107 Agenda Item 8g
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13th DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Planning & Development Portfolio.
PLANNING
Development Management
The Borough continues to attract business investment and I am pleased to report to Council that planning fee income for the financial year to date is £507,474. Fee income for pre application advice over the same period is £17,262. Over the same period we have received £471,983 of Formal Sport S106 contributions, £132,554 of Local Open Space S106 contributions and £659,473 of Affordable Housing S106 contributions.
During this period over 1,000 valid planning applications have been received and performance in determining applications remains well above target.
The Housing White Paper included a proposal to allow the Council to apply a 20% increase to the current planning fees charges provided we commit to investing any additional income received into the planning service to sustain longer term growth. Cabinet has approved the proposal to uplift the fees charged for the processing of planning applications by 20% and confirmed a commitment to invest any additional income received as a result of any increase be invested to support longer term growth through the delivery of an efficient and effective planning service. The Government has laid draft regulations which, subject to Parliamentary scrutiny, will enable us to implement the increase in fees at the earliest opportunity.
Core Strategy and the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework
Following the Greater Manchester mayoral election the newly elected Mayor confirmed that he would rework the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework to include more emphasis on affordable homes, fringe towns, and a significant reduction in plans to build on Green Belt. The draft plan will be developed in the new year, with a view to publishing it in June 2018. Following publication of the draft plan, there will be a further 12-week consultation with the public. We will keep Members updated on this process over the coming months.
Following adoption of the Core Strategy we have commenced work on a Site Allocations plan which will identify the location and amount of land needed to deliver the housing and employment growth as set out in the Core Strategy. We carried out an initial call for sites consultation over the summer and our intention is to consult on the draft allocations plan next year. This will focus on identifying sites for housing and employment use in the urban areas. The GM Spatial Framework is planning for more significant levels of growth across Greater Manchester and the scale of growth requires the identification of strategic sites outside the urban areas which may require release of land from the Green Belt.
BUILDING CONTROL
Dangerous Buildings
Page 108 The Building Control service continues to operate its out-of-hours service, 24 hours-a-day, 365 days a year, to respond to dangerous buildings and buildings left open to unauthorised access. 44 dangerous buildings were investigated in the first 8 months of this financial year, and a proportion of these buildings/structures were demolished by Building Control, in order to maintain public safety.
High Rise Fire Safety
Following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in London, we continue to work with colleagues from within the county, to discuss the ongoing developments regarding the government’s proposals for high-rise fire safety. The objective is to provide advice and recommendations based on the ongoing testing regime currently being implemented, regarding Aluminium Cladding Materials, and which will ultimately be used by all GM authorities, when approving cladding systems, fire safety, strategy and design. The intention is to create written documentation (possibly by re-enabling the GM Act or creating legislation or directives through the GM Mayor’s office), which will supplement the building regulations following their independent review.
There are still no current concerns with the construction of tall residential buildings in Rochdale Borough.
The Council is also looking to ensure (by inspection and if required, testing) that any other properties, including low-rise developments, which have been clad, will also be reviewed for compliance with fire-safety standards, where deemed necessary. Building Control continues to provide expertise, assistance and advice as and when required, in conjunction with independent fire-safety professionals and other council officers.
Safety at Sportsgrounds
The Council continues to oversee the enforcement of spectator safety legislation at the Crown Oil arena, and has recently completed an audit of the stadium’s safety manuals, whilst also undertaking during-match inspections. The outcomes and recommendations of these important safety reviews are currently being discussed with the stadium owners and ground safety team, with the objective of maintaining and improving spectator safety, incorporating the latest counter-terrorism advice and recommendations in liaison with GMP.
STRATEGIC ESTATES & ASSETS
Industrial Assets The first industrial units constructed by the Council for over 30 years have been handed over by the contractors. The units were constructed using the newly created Asset Development Fund. Within one month of handover all seven 750 sq ft units were let at a total rent roll of £49k per annum, some 30% above target. Further self-developments are being planned in support of the Council’s objective to provide 40 units for small and starter businesses.
The remainder of the Council’s industrial units are also 100% occupied.
Property Investments The Council has now spent £20m of its £30m Property Growth Fund to acquire three investment properties which between them provide the targeted return on capital in excess of 6.5% and a combined annual rent roll of £1.4m, £300,000 of which contributes to the Council’s annual efficiency savings.
Disposals The 2017/18 disposals programme has so far achieved capital receipts of £664k from the Page 109 sale of 7 assets.
Community Centres Funding Project The Council’s initiative to support the borough’s community centres by funding essential works is proceeding. To date works have been undertaken at seven centres, with condition information or options appraisals under way at a further four.
Councillor D Ali Portfolio Holder for Planning & Development
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Planning & Development Portfolio
Page 110 Agenda Item 8h
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER for HEALTH AND WELLBEING
MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON Wednesday, 13th December 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Health and Wellbeing Portfolio.
Early Access to Support for You (EASY) Hubs
The Easy Hubs across the borough are in Rochdale Infirmary, Littleborough Health Centre, Middleton Health Centre and Phoenix Centre, Heywood. From April 2018 staff will be based at the hubs supporting residents to access online health self-assessments. They will also support residents to find the most appropriate health and social care service using an online Directory of Services. Mental Health practitioners will offer sessions at each of the hubs for people with mental health concerns. This work is part of the broad prevention service developing in the borough.
Integrated Commissioning and Delivery of Health and Care
Since my last report we have now received final formal sign off of our Transformation Fund Bid for £23.7mill which will bring significant funding into the borough to develop health and care services, getting early help to those who need it, joining up care in the place where people need it and building individual and community resilience.
A pooled fund between the Council and the CCG for adults and children health and care services has been approved for circa £380mill. The fund will be hosted by the Council and overseen by a joint Finance Team led by the Chief Finance Officer for the CCG.
An Independent Chair, Mr Graham Burgess, has been recruited and attended his first board last month.
Greater Manchester Intermediate Care Benchmarking Exercise
During the summer our locality was involved in a Greater Manchester wide benchmarking exercise in relation to intermediate care beds (our Intermediate Tier of Service). The final report shows that our locality is performing well and delivering good services to Rochdale residents.
Better Care Fund
Since my last report I would like to advise that our Better Care Fund Plan has been approved by NHS England and we are delivering well against all of the metrics except one and we have an improvement plan in place for this metric. Our performance in relation to the Delayed Transfers of Care metric continues to be one of the best in the country which has led to a teleconference with the Department of Health to share best practice and lessons learned.
1 Page 111 Tobacco
Tobacco remains our biggest preventable cause of ill health and early death in Rochdale and planning is underway to hold an event at Rochdale Football Club in the New Year to launch Smoke Free Touchlines borough wide in amateur clubs with a youth membership. We intend to piggyback onto this campaign by asking club coaches to support us in promoting Give Up Loving Pop particularly in respect of promoting drinking water over energy drinks. Rochdale AFC is working with us to support this event through promoting it in the match day programmes and providing content for the event around good nutrition and hydration. There has been a high level of interest in attending.
Alcohol Campaigns
Communities in Charge of Alcohol was launched in Darnhill in November with front page media coverage in the Heywood Advertiser. The first champions completed their training on the 10th November and will begin to champion safer alcohol consumption and support licensing colleagues with work to ensure responsible retail of alcohol in the area. This is part of a 5 year GM research initiative.
Drugs and Alcohol
We have jointly commissioned with Oldham Council a new provider for our drug and alcohol service after successfully completing a competitive tendering process. The new provider, Turning Point, is a national Health and Social Care provider with over 50 years experience. The new service will reduce harms to individuals and families, tackle complex dependencies and build sustainable services and communities so recovery can flourish. Turning Point and Rochdale and Oldham commissioners are working together to implement the new service over the next few months with a start date of 1st April.
Sexual Health
Working closely with PaSH (Passionate about Sexual Health) myself and DPH Andrea Fallon have participated in HIV testing this will go out in a press release to encourage testing and reduce stigma.
Working very closely with George House trust, they are delivering workshops to primary care to raise the profile of early diagnosis, testing and again reducing stigma, we are highlighting the fact that regular testing and knowing your status is essential as this means that HIV won’t damage your health plus someone on effective treatment with an undetectable viral load cannot pass the disease on.
Working closely with R U Clear and Pharmacies rolling out the pilot for chlamydia testing, this is proving successful in just two months we have surpassed the screening figures for the whole of last year. GM sexual health network are looking to work with other areas to help roll this out elsewhere. Working with both Brook and SHP to increase the uptake of testing they are both creating action plans and a market stall event for young people’s sexual health was held and was very well attended.
Public Protection Service
Following a work related death by carbon monoxide poisoning the service is currently involved in a joint investigation with the police and is doing other work to raise awareness of 2 Page 112 carbon monoxide risk to the public. The service is currently issuing the leaflets to businesses and has been shared with AGMA Authorities.
Following a very serious escalator incident involving a child that fell two floors in a shopping centre the service has undertaken significant amount of work to raise awareness of escalator safety this has been done through schools within the borough and other retail premises with escalators. Work is also being done to improve the standard of older escalators across the borough.
There has been a report to Chief Executives and WLT on Taxis and Private Hire requesting a more coordinated approach to licensing be developed by Districts, assisted by TfGM as appropriate. Since then work has been ongoing with all the AGMA Authorities Licensing Manager leads and TfGM to progress this agenda. A report has recently gone to Chief Executives to report on progress so far there is significant work to be done as there is a diversity of standards in GM and there is a need for changes to national regulation. Firstly, the development of a set of minimum standards by Districts for taxi and PHV licensing in GM. And secondly, on the basis that the current national regulatory system is inadequate, the report recommends that GM looks to influence national policy.
Child Health Services
We are moving to a whole system model to support children, young people and their families under the auspices of our new Family Services Model which is being developed by the Children’s team. Health Visiting and School Nursing Services (part of the Councils Public Health Responsibilities) are now integrated into this new delivery model together with Early Help and Safeguarding services. A transformation programme for child health is being led jointly by the Integrated Commissioning team in partnership with the Children’s team and the outcomes of this work will be formally launched week commencing 22 January 2018.
Health Improvement and Psychological Therapies Services
During a visit to the Living Well, Thinking Ahead and Renaissance Services at Lock 50 I was able to see first-hand some of the key interventions and support we make available for our communities in order to assist them to improve their health, and support them when they have mental health issues. In particular, the family health improvement service is developing innovative new ways of supporting families in relation to childhood obesity and Psychological Therapies Services are taking an integrated approach with lifestyle services. Information on how these services can be accessed has been circulated to Council members for use with residents as and when required.
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Health and Wellbeing Portfolio
Councillor Jacqui Beswick Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing
3 Page 113 Agenda Item 8i
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR NEIGHBOURHOODS, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the NEIGHBOURHOODS, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE Portfolio.
Safer Communities Increasing confidence & satisfaction In the past few months we have commissioned new emergency accommodation and support services for victims and children affected by domestic abuse. Our refuge accommodation service will be run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by SafeNet Domestic Abuse and Support Services in addition there will be confidential, emotional and practical support to help survivors stay safe in the community, and assistance with housing related issues, including resettlement. These services will be complimented by additional domestic abuse support services from Rochdale Victim Support who will provide holistic support to all victims, children and families affected by domestic abuse at any risk level, this will include help with crisis checklists and escape plans. We promoted the new service provision in the local press, on social media and also conducted a partnership interview for Revolution Radio.
We have supported the White Ribbon campaign (25th November – 10th December) to raise awareness of domestic abuse, we have pledged never to commit, condone or remain silent about men's violence against women. We held an awareness raising stall in Number One Riverside where officers, elected members and residents signed a giant white ribbon to support the campaign and victims of domestic abuse.
We have also taken part in Hate Crime Awareness Week from Saturday 14th to 21st October this year. Using social media we raised awareness of what hate crime is and how to report it, as well as attending events such as the veterans’ breakfast at the town hall to spread the message.
Community Cohesion and Resilience In the past month, a number of key initiatives and projects have been delivered in order to support the council’s work around building resilience, promoting cohesion and instilling confidence by reducing the fear and experience of crime. The council's work around Prevent and Counter Extremism has gathered pace with Rochdale sharing good practice work across Greater Manchester around early intervention. A number of grassroots organisations have also met with representatives from the Home Office in advance of submitting their ideas for the national “Building Stronger Britain Together” initiatives. This community engagement work also supported the council’s activities around national Hate Crime Awareness week. Our commitment to eliminating all forms of discrimination was also clearly demonstrated by our formal cross party adoption of a motion to recognise a working definition of Anti-Semitism which has now been embedded within our equality policies.
We are continuing to support the delivery of a 12 week course on leadership, mentoring and conflict resolution with the Foundation 4 Peace and are pleased to inform everyone that this has attracted participation from diverse members of the community from across the borough and has a good representation from young people and women.
I am also pleased to report that staff from across different services in the council were officially recognised and awarded Certificates of Merit by Greater Manchester Police for their work in ensuring communities remained safe and businesses continued with minimum disruption during the summer period of Far Right demonstrations and counter protests. The council was also officially recognised at a Civic Ceremony of thanks held by the Lord Mayor of Manchester for the Community Safety Team's contribution to the ‘recovery’ work across Greater Manchester following the Manchester Arena attacks. Page 114 Reducing Crime and ASB The annual multi agency Treacle Campaign (Safe4Autumn) took place to tackle ASB during the bonfire period and to tackle unlawful sales of Fireworks. Police and Trading Standards conducted visits to 22 licenced premises to promote ‘Good Guys’ retailer scheme as well as conducting test purchase exercises targeting premises in underage sales in Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.
Our campaign to raise awareness of improving Home security has received a positive response with an increased uptake from residents on alley gate schemes with a significant number undergoing property surveys and product installations as well as advice and support around distraction burglary, in particular for vulnerable older residents.
Business Continuity and Emergency Planning Emergency Planning We continue to prepare ourselves for emergencies and we have recently undertaken a multi-agency exercise simulating a large scale power outage in the North West. This exercise has been repeated across Greater Manchester and we had over 40 Partners taking part with colleagues from the Civil Contingencies and Resilience Unit. We will be undertaking a further Emergency Planning Workshop for Members in the New Year to keep us informed on how we respond in emergencies and the role Elected Members would play. We are planning to test our Emergency Control Centre plans and rest centre facilities early next year as part of our continuous review of emergency response abilities.
Business Continuity Our business continuity plans are continuously evolving, linked to our emergency planning exercises and disaster recovery plans. We are undertaking refresher training for services with support from the Civil Contingencies and Resilience Unit. Increasingly more of what we do depends on our ICT facilities so we are looking to move progressively towards cloud based storage and off site hosting so that our service supporting software remains accessible if we lose our local assets for any reason.
Townships Township Committees Township Committees received questions from members of the public in relation to a number of matters, including anti-social behaviour, traffic concerns and environmental works carried out by a social housing provider. A presentation was delivered in relation to the Compulsory Purchase Order process, and reports were presented on a number of matters, including: Upgrades to footpaths/bridleways Objections to a Traffic Regulation Order Disposal of land Discretionary Fees and Charges Capital Budget Programme
Township Funds Delegated sub-committees met to consider a number of schemes and projects, projects agreed include: Grass verge replacements Installation of dropped kerbs Introduction of waiting restrictions Allotments project Creation of wheelchair friendly access for a Nature reserve Bulky waste amnesty Soft play equipment for a gym club Woodland improvements A review of existing parking restrictions Off-road bikes crime reduction initiative Milnrow & District Carnival Christmas Lights
Christmas Events The Christmas lights switch-on events have taken place in all four of our Townships. The events Page 115 were once again a great success and very well attended.
Libraries, Customer Services and Advice A full service review is taking place at the moment with the input from Members and in particular Cllr Emsley and Cllr Brett. The library management team will review all aspects of the service in order to ensure we have a service fit for the future. Our Early Years worker Irene Peachy has won a national Booktrust award for Bookstart Giving – her presentation took place on Thursday 30th November at Heywood library and was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress. Well done Irene – it’s very well deserved. Libraries are planning Christmas events across the borough – Littleborough are holding a family silent disco! Lots of craft events are taking place and the singing group at Heywood are singing Carols on Tuesday 5th December.
Events During the period October to December 23 events will have been held across the borough. The third Williams BMW Rochdale Half Marathon / 10k and Fun Run took place on Sunday 8th October, organised by the Rochdale and Middleton Harriers and Rochdale Triathlon club, supported by Rochdale Council and sponsored again by William BMW Rochdale. All three of this year’s races saw an increase in numbers and some excellent feedback from participants for the three new most scenic routes yet. The date has already been set for the 2018 races and we will be keeping the same routes to add some consistency for returning participants. Two new outdoor Halloween events in Bamford and Norden and seven organised bonfires took place across the borough. The bonfires, organised by Rochdale Council’s Environmental Management team, were hugely successful with large crowds enjoying the traditional fire and fireworks displays. This year, six Christmas Lights Switch On events lit up each Township with the annual festive fun activities, market stalls, fireworks, a Heywood parade and the Town Hall building bathed in spectacular lights, all were enjoyed by large crowds of residents. The annual Springhill Hospice Santa Dash and Dawdle again attracted 200 Santas for a scenic jog or stroll around Hollingworth Lake. The last Festive event of 2017 will take place on 24th December in Wardle Village as residents gather in the village square for the annual Carol Concert. This year will end with entertainment and two fireworks displays to mark New Year’s Eve, one for children in the afternoon as darkness falls and the other at midnight to herald the end of 2017 and the beginning of 2018.
Some confirmed 2018 dates for your diaries: 9th / 10th February – Gin Festival 24th March – Rochdale Food and Drink Festival 15th April – Rochdale Wedding Show 15th June – Riddle at Casino Royale Murder Mystery Dinner July/August Summer holiday – Children’s Promenade Theatre, Treasure Island 14th September – Clue-Doh! Family Murder Mystery event 7th October – Williams BMW Rochdale Half Marathon/10k/Fun Run
Voluntary Sector Two Volunteering events for the borough have been led by Link 4 Life together with partners. These events sought to showcase the range of volunteering opportunities within the borough and encourage more residents to get involved. The Health and Wellbeing Alliance continues to develop with a number of topic specific specialist groups in place to look at key priority areas and we are commissioning some additional capacity to support our voluntary sector infrastructure resource to ensure the borough is in a strong position to capitalise on the impact that the sector brings to health, wellbeing, culture, arts and leisure within the borough. Link4Life Update Quarter 3 2017-18
Corporate Update Andy King has hit the ground running, utilising his considerable experience to build on the successful legacy of Gillian Bishop. Darren Grice has been appointed Deputy CEO and Estelle Rowe as Finance and Business Director.
Sport and Leisure The refurbishment, replacement and upgrade of fitness equipment at Middleton Arena will be taking place from Monday 4th December to Thursday 21st December. A temporary gym in the Sports Hall Page 116 will be in place from Tuesday 5th December to minimise disruption to current members.
Work is in progress on a proposal for a pilot junior activity membership with Cared for Children, this membership would entitle children and young people to access activities across the whole Link4Life portfolio. Further work will be undertaken in the coming months with the intention of launching early in 2018.
Consultation is also currently being undertaken with Parents and children/young people to further extend the holiday provision to include activity days that provide full time child care and to test the market in terms of a price point. We have received 75 responses thus far, all favourable towards this new product.
As part of the Aquatic Strategy a formal review of pool programmes is being under taken, with Middleton’s Pool programme under review in the initial stages. The programme has been reviewed taking into account protecting sessions such as Link4Life Swim Academy lessons, Link4Life’s school swimming lesson programme, aquatic fitness sessions and Public swimming. Public consultation started at the beginning of November and will conclude on Friday 24th November. So far 152 responses have been received via social media and our Link4Life website.
Arts and Heritage Strategy: Following Link4Life’s strategy development, Arts Council England (ACE) submitted a request to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to invest in developing the resilience and leadership of the Rochdale Borough Culture Network, a community connector development role to develop engagement and some pilot ‘flagship’ projects around health. A larger bid may be possible in the New Year to request significant resources to scale up the cultural offer in the Borough. ACE are keen to enter into a partnership with RBC and Link4Life via an MOU around shared investment priorities for culture (Children and young people, health, leadership and community engagement) in recognition of RBC’s continued support for arts and heritage through L4L and its voluntary grant programme.
Financial: Work to secure match funding to grow the culture programme across the Borough is yielding positive results. Match investment in 17/18 is £179,550 (compared to £80,850 in 16/17 and £8,500 in 15/16). This has enabled growth of participation through the many projects funded. By the end of Q2, 72% of target for young people and 96% of target for adults participating in activities was achieved. The outcome of the £250k Heritage Lottery Fund bid to support Dippy programming is due in December. A range of other bids are now being submitted to raise the £0.5m target to start the programme.
Touchstones: Visitor numbers to Touchstones remains an area for concern. Recent improvements to programming, project development, schools engagement and the re-opening of the café are all positive. Work to address marketing and audience development is underway to improve resident’s awareness and engagement with the improved offer.
Highlights of the last few months include: • 5 sell out performances in partnership with Rochdale Literature and Ideas festival • Successful family theatre programme with early years show attracting audience of over a 100 people. • The Comedy night ‘Tickle your fancy’ sold well with an audience of over 60 people. • Three new exhibitions - New work by Evangelia Spiliopoulou in Gallery One, Rachael Clewlow in Gallery Three and Jessica Rankin in Gallery Four. All part of highly ambitious ACE-funded Contemporary Forward programme. • Link4Life are one of 40 organisations funded by Western Jerwood Creative Bursaries to create a 12-month, full-time position for a recent graduate (from economically deprived background). • Visit England VAQAS achieved an assessment of 89%. • Touchstones featured as one of a small number of best-practice case studies in the recent government commissioned ‘Mendoza Independent Review of Museums’.
Health and Wellbeing Performance is on target for both adult and children’s interventions. The Wise Choices programme has launched, it includes:
• New resources e.g. Takeaway game, sugar game, physical activity game, portion sizes. Page 117 • Food growing and nutrition activities during the summer at Broadfield park, Rochdale Leisure Centre and Deeplish Community Centre. • Wise choices programme is running at Heywood Sports Village, Middleton Arena, Sandbrook Children’s Centre and Number One Riverside. • A cook & taste pilot with a youth intervention officer was rolled out in October. Families receive a basic cooking equipment pack and meal to take away
Other achievements included:
• New walking football league at Heywood Sports Village (HSV) attracted 15 teams (134 men and 1 lady). The Martin Dawson Trophy took place at HSV on Sunday 10th September with 12 teams taking part from as far away as Birmingham. • Stroke active course 18 started on Thursday 7th September with 11 participants. • Two functional courses have now completed at Rochdale Leisure Centre and Heywood Sports Village. • Aqua Relax Session at HSV has 13 people registered (11 regular users). Those attending are a combination of people living with dementia, people with long term health conditions and their carers. • The second Healthy Business Breakfast took place on November 1st at Hopwood Hall College. • Nutrition, weight management, mindfulness & food & mood courses were delivered for RBC & L4L employees in this quarter.
Sport and Physical Activity Link4Life has been shortlisted for two significant Sport England funds to support growth of the programme.
The first is aimed to support people who were active but have recently become inactive (for example through ill health, an accident or other life changing event).
The second is to develop a comprehensive offer with families. Both funding rounds received 300+ applications and Link4Life has been shortlisted to the final 30. Decisions will be announced in the New Year. Delivery of existing projects remains strong, and highlights include:
• Activ8teMe - now in its fifth year this programme remains strong. New classes started in September and included Rebound and Burn and Bounce at Bowlee, Clubbercise classes in Milnrow, Bamford, and 2 classes in Shawclough. • Skills4Sport - 24 people signed up to the current Skills4Sport course. 10 skills for sport graduates from the previous course are now employed within Link4life for the Summer Holiday programme. • Fit, Feed and Read - Link4Life and Rochdale Borough Council Library Service worked together to deliver Fit, Feed and Read sessions in 6 areas across the borough. The venues chosen were Balderstone Library, Belfield Library, Darnhill Library, Junction Library, Langley Library and Smallbridge Library. The sessions ran 3-4 days of all the 6 weeks of the Summer Holidays at each venue. 388 young people attended the programme with 126 living in 0- 3% SOA nationally, 263 living 0-20% SOA nationally. 30 community coaches, Over 450 meals per week, 37 volunteers. 48.5% male and 51.5% females.
Councillor Janet Emsley Portfolio Holder for NEIGHBOURHOODS, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE Portfolio.
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the NEIGHBOURHOODS, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE Portfolio.
Page 118 Agenda Item 8j
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CORPORATE OVERVIEW AND SCRTUINY COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY 13 DECEMBER 20017
Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
This report will refer to the last two formal meetings of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee and will also update Council on the study group reviewing health related absence.
At the meeting held on 17 October 2017the following items were discussed:
PROPOSED LOCAL POSITIVE RECRUITMENT CRITERIA POLICY A report detailing proposed changes to the current Recruitment and Selection Policy to give local residents a greater priority when applying for jobs graded 1 to 3 was carefully scrutinised and forwarded to Cabinet with a recommendation for approval.
FINANCE UPDATE REPORT 2017/2018 The Chief Finance Officer’s report which had been approved by Cabinet on 14 September 2917 was reviewed. The Committee requested the Chief Finance Officer to send them details of the current level of balances held comparisons with previous years and the underlying reasons for the same.
COLLECTION FUND UPDATE Details up to the end of July 2017 were noted.
MEDIUM TERM FINANCIAL STRATEGY 20018/2019 TO 2022/2023 AND REVENUE BUDGET UPDATE 2018/2019 TO 2020/2021 AND ASSOCIATED SAVING PROGRAMMES These reports were considered in light of the need for Council to set a balanced budget going forward. These matters were further scrutinised in the private part of the meeting.
DISCRETIONARY FEES AND CHARGES 2018/2019 The Committee reviewed this report as part of a wider consultation process. The report identified by exception those fees and charges which it was proposed would increase above the 2% level.
Clarification of the reference to the appointeeship fee in the Adult Care section of the report was requested.
CAPITAL PROGRAMME 20018/2019 TO 2020/2021 The Committee were consulted on the proposed Capital Programme up to 2021 details of which were noted. Page 119 The Chief Finance Officer in conjunction with the Director of Economy was requested to produce a report at the year-end showing the movement in the Commercial Investment Fund and its respective returns.
At its meeting on 21 November the Committee considered the following items of business:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT OMBUDSMAN’S ANNUAL REVIEWS 2016/2017 This item has been brought forward from the previous meeting and the report detailed the enquiries/complaints received by the Local Government Ombudsman. It was pleasing to note that the numbers in respect of Rochdale Council were lower than any of our neighbouring authorities.
RESCOURCES AND NEIGHBOURHOOD DIRECTORATE PLANS 20017/2018 QUARTER 2 PERFORMANCE UPDATE No causes for concern were identified during the reviews of the current performance of either of these directorates.
POST CONSULTATION UPDATES ON SAVING PROGRAMMES 2018/2019 AND 2019/2020 AND DISCRETIONARY FEES AND CHARGES 2018/2019 Members had had the opportunity to review the responses which had been received as part of the consultation process around the proposed saving programme currently held by the Governance and Committee Services. After much discussion the Committee were happy to forward the recommendations to Cabinet noting specifically that where possible some fees and charges were to be introduced from 1 January 2018.
CALCULATION OF THE COUNCIL TAX BASE FOR 2018/2019 AND THE SETTING OF THE BUSINESS RATE BASE 2018/2019 Both of these reports whose background were based on well practiced methodologies were received and noted.
GREATER MANCHESTER WASTE DISPOSAL LEVY ALLOCATION METHODOLOGY AGREEMENT This very detailed report from the Chief Finance Officer was carefully considered by the committee members who after serious deliberation were happy with the preferred option. It was noted that under this option the Council would see a reduction of £129k in its contribution to the Waste Authority.
MANCHESTER AIRPORT GROUP STRATEGIES INVESTMENT Two reports prepared by the Chief Finance Officer, one on pink paper, regarding the proposed further investment by the Council in the Airport Group were received.
The Committee concluded this was what the Americans referred to as a ‘no-brainer’ and were more than happy to agree the recommendation to support the Manchester Airport Group’s transformation programme through an additional shareholder loan.
Page 120 RISK SHARE AGREEMENT FOR INCLUSION IN SECTION 75 AGREEMENT GOVERNING THE INTEGRATED HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE POOLED FUND2018/2019. This report prepared by the Shadow Integrated Commissioning Board recommended that the risk share be based on the partner’s initial opening financial contribution and this appeared to the Committee to be the most appropriate of the six options which had been considered. Those which sought to maintain the identity of the initial fund or resulted in an unfair distribution had rightly been rejected. It was noted that this agreement would be for one year and then was to be reviewed in the light of experience.
HEALTH RELATED ABSENCE STUDY GROUP This small and select group had been meeting regularly to review the current policies and practices of the management of health related absences. The group had benefited greatly from the input of human resource specialists, senior managers and trade union representatives. Actual case studies had highlighted a great deal of good practice within the organisation and had proved particularly informative.
A further meeting is scheduled for mid-December after which the group expect to be in a position to present a report with recommendations.
Councillor Robert Clegg Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Page 121 Agenda Item 8k
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE COMMUNITIES, REGENERATION AND ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW AND SCRTUINY COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13th DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee Overview and Scrutiny Committee
The Committee has met once since the last Council meeting, on 22nd November 2017.
Presentation On Public Space Protection Order - The Committee considered a which provided us with the details the consultation responses received to the proposed Rochdale Town Centre Public Spaces Protection Order.
The Committee was informed that following consultation a number of items included within the original scope of the Order would not be included within the final recommendation to Cabinet. Alternative mechanisms had been identified to deal with issues relating to distribution of printed material/leaflets and for the Control of commercial or charity collection or soliciting for money in the street. The Director of Neighbourhoods identified areas of geographically expansion from those originally proposed.
Discretionary Crisis Fund And Local Welfare Provision - 6 Month Performance Report - The Committee scrutinised a report which informed Members of the Discretionary Crisis Fund’s performance for the first 6 months of 2017/18 and provided data on some of the food banks in the Borough for the same period.
The Committee was advised that the Discretionary Crisis Fund offered support to those setting up home when resettling from temporary accommodation that may need help in acquiring essential household items. The scheme also provided a mechanism to make small crisis awards for those who found themselves in financial difficulty for emergency household fuel or clothes.
Members of the Committee, in scrutinising the report, asked for consideration to be given as to the how the fund could be better promoted to increase awareness of the fund within Wards where there is known to be a need of support but the numbers of applications remain low.
Housing Strategy 2017-2020 - The Committee scrutinised a report detailing the Council’s Housing Strategy 2017-2022, which set out the Council’s housing ambitions for the next 5 years. The Committee was informed that the strategy contained 5 key strategic objectives including; increasing the supply of new homes; making better use of our existing properties; developing a range of housing options; protecting the most vulnerable; and contributing to health & wellbeing.
Members questioned the Chief Planning Officer with regard to the impact of Page 122 demolishing property when set against new build targets and sought assurance that the target build on brownfield sites was realistically achievable and whether the transport infrastructure would support the development sustainably.
Communities, Regeneration & Environment Directorate Plans 2017-18 Quarter 2 Performance Update - The Committee scrutinised a report detailing progress at the end of Quarters 1 and 2 (1st April – 30th September 2017) towards achievement of the targets contained in the Economy Directorate Plan 2017-18 and Neighbourhood Directorate Plan 2017-18.
Members sought assurances that existing Rochdale Town Centre development plans remained on course for completion and questioned what opportunities were being considered for application in Middleton and Heywood.
Environmental Enforcement Policy Update - The Committee received a presentation updating us on forthcoming amendments to the Enforcement Policy.
Members were informed that both changes to legislation and the proposed Rochdale Town Centre Public Protection Order were driving necessary amendments to the existing Policy.
Waste Collection Policy Update - The Committee received a presentation which updated us on the forthcoming amendments to the Waste Collection Policy.
Questions were raised regarding the policies relating to rural garden waste disposal and clarification was sought as to the alternative solutions considered. Members requested that an update be provided on the changes to the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal levy and how that aligned to Policy development.
Homelessness Study Group - This study group, which is chaired by Councillor O’Neill, was established to carry out an investigation into the problems related to homelessness which is of course a problem for Rochdale as it is for many other Councils up and down the country. The membership of the Study Group is drawn from all three of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees. The Study Group has now met on three occasions receiving presentations from the Council’s own Homelessness Officer and representatives of relevant external bodies: Rochdale Town Centre Management Company, local churches, Petrus and Sanctuary Trust. Members of the Study group will be undertaking visits to some of these organisations, including the foodbank in Rochdale, amongst others in a bid to learn more about the subject and on how it impacts on local people and service users.
Work Programme 2017/2018 - The Committee has considered its Work Programme for 2016/2017 and a robust schedule of work has been developed concentrating on the relevant areas of the Council’s business to ensure that the ‘core’ functions of the Committee are thoroughly covered.
GMCA Corporate Issues & Reform Overview & Scrutiny Committee. I attended the meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Corporate Issues & Reform Overview & Scrutiny Committee which was held on 17th October 2016. As this was the first full meeting of the Committee it considered the appointment of the Chair, Vice Chair, the approval of the Terms of Reference and the Call in Procedure rules. Page 123 Andy Burnham, the GM Mayor was in attendance and he advised that it was the GMCA’s intention to submit an application for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to become an accredited Living Wage employer and provided further information on the process, benefits and challenges of Living Wage Accreditation.
Consideration was also given to a draft of the refreshed Greater Manchester Strategy Implementation Plan, the draft of the 2016/17 GMS Annual Performance Report and the refreshed Greater Manchester Strategy, the GMCA/AGMA Budgets 2017/18 and 2018/19 and the Committee’s Work Programme for 2017/18.
Councillor Neil Butterworth Chair of the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Page 124 Agenda Item 8l
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CHAIR OF THE HEALTH, SCHOOLS AND CARE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13th DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee
The Committee has met once since my last report to October’s Council meeting.
23rd November 2017
Presentation - Young Carers The Committee received a presentation from Councillor Meredith on the work of the charity; Children Action North West including: the work that the charity is commissioned to action for young carers. The presentation was given jointly with a young carer who was able to give a valuable account of the service and its impact.
Safeguarding Boards (Children and Adults) Annual Report 2016/17 The Committee welcomed Jane Booth, the Independent Chair of the Children’s and Adults Safeguarding Boards to the meeting. Jane presented the annual report of the Borough’s Safeguarding Boards for 2016/17 which informed us of the work that is being carried out on a daily basis to help some of the Borough’s most vulnerable children and adults.
The report reflected on available information about agency performance that had been obtained from data collection and analysis, audits and case reviews. Many of the performance measures in the report had used scores in the range that is seen as reflecting good practice. Higher than average levels of deprivation of course have a significant negative impact on the Borough’s population, one possible consequence being evidenced is that children present themselves at hospital with higher than average levels of self-harm and alcohol abuse.
The Committee was advised that there was still work to do to ensure that the right people received the right support at the right time. For children and families, too many contacts with Children’s Social Care did not result in a referral being taken forward, suggesting insufficient understanding of various thresholds for a service and a risk that early help has not been provided or has been delayed. Additionally there was no evidence of a reduction in the overall rate of children being identified as ‘children in need’. Once children do meet the threshold which requires support from Children’s Social Care there is a reduction in both re-referrals and the number of children who need the support of a Child Protection Plan for a second time – both these suggest effective responses are in place.
Page 125 Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust The Committee received a presentation on the work of the Trust from two of their senior managers. The last few months have been very eventful for the Trust and we were accordingly advised of two appointments: a new Chief Executive, Claire Molly who was appointed in September 2017 and a new Chair, Evelyn Asante- Mensah who was appointed in November 2017. The Trust advised of their current financial situation and on action that was being taken to address their budget deficit. The Trust was implementing various improvement plans to address performance. There was a Strategic Partnership Board in place which included representation from all commissioners. A Quality Improvement Board had been established to oversee the Care Quality Commission’s action plan and it was intended that this body would drive forward the necessary improvements to the services that are urgently required. There were also associated sub-groups that were looking at finance, estates, digital services and mental health.
The presentation outlined improvements that were being made in respect of children’s services, services for adults and dental health services. For children’s services the Trust were investing, in partnership with the Council, in the Family Service model (of care delivery) an d intensive engagement with children/young people and their families to improve access to help and support – often via on-line facilities.
The presentation also outlined a five year strategy that the Trust was carrying out to address mental health which looked at the Trust’s commitment to ‘deliver the best care to patients, people and families in our local communities by working effectively with partners to help people live well’. The priorities here were to improve the levels of resources available to support therapeutic care, to release staff for training requirements and to strengthen clinical leadership.
Diabetic Eye Screening Service The Committee received a presentation on the National Diabetic Eye Screening Programme which aimed to reduce one of the complications of diabetes with an offer of annual screening to all eligible patients. Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership was responsible for commissioning the service and this was provided by Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust - (North East Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (NE Diabetic Eye Screening Programme)) for the Bury, Heywood Middleton & Rochdale (HMR) and Oldham CCG populations.
Following Patient and Public Engagement the programme implemented changes to its model of delivery in November 2015 with an increase in its screening locations from six to 12 with six fixed locations and six rotational sites.
Homelessness Study Group This study group, which is chaired by Councillor O’Neill, was established to carry out an investigation into the problems related to homelessness which is of course a problem for Rochdale as it is for many other Councils up and down the country. The membership of the Study Group is drawn from all three of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees. The Study Group has now met on three occasions receiving presentations from the Council’s own Homelessness Officer and representatives of relevant external bodies: Rochdale Town Centre Page 126 Management Company, local churches, Petrus and Sanctuary Trust. Members of the Study group will be undertaking visits to some of these organisations, including the foodbank in Rochdale, amongst others in a bid to learn more about the subject and on how it impacts on local people and service users.
There are a number of actions arising from the meeting including recommendations for member training, some requests for additional information and circulation of resources for members’ attention.
Councillor Sara Rowbotham Chair of the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Page 127 Agenda Item 8m
ROCHDALE METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE CHAIR OF THE HEYWOOD TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY 13th December 2017
Henry Hill Close
Saturday the 21st October 2017 saw a poignant Service to name a street, Henry Hill Close to commemorate and honour Henry Oswald William Hill MC, held 100 years to the day since he was killed in action aged 29 years while undertaking a Royal Flying Corp night mission behind enemy lines on 21 October 1917. Local councillors, Heywood and Middleton MP Liz McInnes, Mayor of Rochdale Councillor Ian Duckworth, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Shauna Dixon MBE, TD, MSc, RN, RM, RHV, senior Officers of the land owners and developers, many members of the Armed Forces community and public came together to unveil the signs. Henry left behind a lasting legacy with Heywood's St Joseph's Church amongst the many fine buildings he designed, as one of the country's leading architects. The beautifully crafted street signs, funded by the council, will ensure Henry's name lives on.
Green Flag raising
On Tuesday the 31st October 2017 Green Flags of excellence were raised in Queens Park and for the first time in Hopwood Park.
Heywood In Bloom
Councillor Rush attended the North West In Bloom Awards Ceremony on Friday the 3rd November 2017 and was constantly up on to the Stage to collect prestigious awards on behalf of Heywood Township. Eight Gold Awards were won by Heywood Town Centre, Heywood in Bloom, The Old Police Station, Mike Goldrick Window Blinds, Phoenix Brewery, Queens Park, Crown Oils and Heywood Distribution Park. Hopwood Park received a Silver Gilt. St Lukes Primary School won the Environmental Award for Schools. Heywood Distribution Park won the Best Large Commercial and Business Park Trophy. The Cherwell Wellbeing Centre won the Best New Landscape Trophy. Level three Advancing were awarded to Bridgewood Lodge Sheltered Accommodation, Hornby St Allotments. Level four Thriving to Sandon House Community Centre, Heywood Fire Station, Heritage House Business Centre, Heywood Memorial Gardens, Springbank Care Home and Roeacre Court.
Bonfire
Once again the Township appreciated the annual bonfire, thanks to all those concerned in organising it.
Page 128 Heywood Food Bank
Township has again supported the Heywood Foodbank with a donation which will assist their efforts throughout the year and to supply Christmas Hampers and gifts for many children to ensure local disadvantaged families are supported in having a happy Christmas.
Remembrance Sunday
At 11.00 hours on the eleventh day of the eleventh month The Heywood Veterans Association held a poignant commemorative Service in Heywood Memorial Gardens which saw an ever increasing number of residents attending to pay their respect and tributes to honour the memory of those paying the ultimate sacrifice.
The Town’s Remembrance Service and Parade on Sunday the 12th November 2017 was yet again the best ever attended with people in attendance representing all walks of life and ages in The Heywood Community. Heywood Civic Centre hosted a Reception pre Service and refreshments afterwards and was very well attended. Once again the Township provided wreaths for all Heywood Schools, Scouts and Guides, Community Groups and sheltered accommodations on such a proud day. I was honoured to take the Salute together with The Queens Representative, the Deputy Mayor, MP Liz McInnes,senior serving RAF Officer and the Towns oldest Veteran and Patron of the Heywood Veterans Association.
Heywood Christmas Festival
Heywood Christmas Festival took place on Saturday the 18st November 2017. The dazzling set of 8,000 LED tree lights wowed the crowds at switch on time. There was a full day of activities, stalls, entertainment, lots of costume characters around the Town such as the Frozen Sisters, Iron Man, Peppa Pig, Mickey and Minnie and Paw Patrols Marshall and Chase and Super Heroes Captain America and Batman being extremely popular. Elfie the Elf was in Town on a special mission to add the well- behaved children to Santa’s nice list and take present requests. Free children’s arts and crafts were provided and entertainers, the Parade had four magnificently dressed and lit up Floats, costume characters, voluntary groups, and the newly refurbished Rotary Santa Sleigh. Music filled the air as the Littleborough Brass Band played. The concert outside St. Lukes Church contained energetic performances by a whole host of local groups across a range of music genres. The church bells chimed and The Olde Queen Anne hosted a fantastic firework display in the grand Finale. I would like to extend my thanks to all the volunteers and especially the vibrant Heywood Business Group in assisting the Township in putting on such a memorable event.
Police and Community Safety
Over the last few months Heywood has encountered some issues that have raised community tensions these include, a rise in incidents of burglary, gun shots fired at Adelaide Street East and a stabbing incident at High Street. Page 129 To address these incidents and to increase public confidence the following sustained actions have been taking place. In the short term Burglaries have reduced significantly to below the threshold level as a direct result of target offenders being arrested, charged and remanded on the back of some fantastic proactive policing and the support of the community assisting and with Specialist operational support from the Mounted Section. The Traffic Section has been deployed, primarily on Rochdale Road East to respond to complaints of speeding. A face to face Police And Community Together meeting was held at The Phoenix Centre, online PACT meetings and Surgeries have been and will continue to be conducted with positive Community feedback acknowledging the burglary reductions. A number of warrants have been executed as part of disruption tactics initiated after the gun shots and stabbing. There is also a medium to long term plan that will take Policing in to 2018, including Heywood Open Day, PACTs and Surgeries to continue, The Darks Nights plan is in place, an Operation to maintain low burglary numbers and provide a high visible police presence around the winter period where an increase in acquisitive crime can be observed. Christmas meals for local victims of burglary and vulnerable persons will be provided, attending winter events, a day of action whereby further warrants and disruption will take place. On top of all the above patrols will continue around the area, visits to the most vulnerable residents and engaging wherever possible. The Community will continue to be updated via social media and other media outlets.
Cllr Peter Rush Chair of Heywood Township
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Heywood Township Committee.
Page 130 Agenda Item 8n
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE MIDDLETON TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Middleton Township.
Township Committee Middleton Township Committee Meeting took place on Thursday 30th November. Members approved the minutes of the previous Middleton Township Committee and the Middleton Devolved Funding and Devolved Services Sub-Committee. Members then considered objections to a proposed TRO in relation to on-street permit parking places (disabled bays). Reports were presented in relation to the need for extra primary school places 2017- 20 and the need for extra year 7 school places 2017-20.
Township Sub-Committees and Working Parties The cycle of sub-committees which took place in this quarter, and some of the issues raised are detailed below:
Devolved Funding and Devolved Services Sub-Committee The Middleton Devolved Funding & Services sub-committee met on 18th October, the following projects/schemes were agreed:
Project/Scheme Amount Awarded £ The Reading Room 1,600 Giving Growth A Chance 3,282.94 Wheelchair Friendly Access – Friends of 2,400 Hopwood Woods Middleton Bulky Waste Amnesty 7,455 Middleton Gymnastics Club 1,000 Irkside Community Woodland Improvements 5,000 Lodge St Parking Restrictions Review 4,000 Bentley Avenue Parking Restrictions 2,250 Furness Road Bollards 4,950 Morton Street Bollards 4,230 Off-Road Bikes Crime Reduction Scheme 1,700 Peach Bank Prohibition of Driving 1,000 Green Lane/Hilton Fold Road Safety Scheme 2,000
Regeneration The Middleton Regeneration Group, met during this quarter discussed a number of issues such as the Junction 19 Link Road, Middleton Shopping Centre, Hopwood Old Hall and issues in relation to transport, car parking and schools.
Middleton Environment & Culture Forum The Middleton Environment and Culture Forum meeting scheduled for 6th December was postponed, the next meeting will take place on the 23rd January 2018.
Page 131 PACT Meetings (Police and Community Together) held this quarter; East – Thursday 9th November 2017 South – Monday 16th October 2017 West – Tuesday 17th October 2017 North – Monday 14th August 2017 Hopwood Hall – Monday 16th October 2017
Middleton In Bloom Huge congratulations to the ‘Middleton in Bloom’ team who worked hard to get Middleton blooming. The group is made up of the Youth Service, headed by Jill Amos, working in partnership with the Middleton Parish Cubs and Beavers, Volunteers, and officers from RBC Environmental Management and has achieved a Silver award in its very first year – well done to all on this fantastic achievement.
Green Flag Awards Flag raising ceremonies took place at all of our award winning ‘Green Flag’ sites during October, including in historic Jubilee Park Middleton, which received a Green Flag this year for the first time. Many thanks go to all who participated, and especially to the Friends of Jubilee Park.
Middleton Firework Display The annual event took place at Bowlee Community Park on 31st October.
Page 132 The event was once again very successful and well attended by families from Middleton and the surrounding area.
Remembrance Sunday Hundreds gathered in Middleton’s Memorial Gardens to remember all those who gave their lives. Again year on year this service is growing in attendance. “At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them”
Christmas Lights Switch On Middleton’s annual Christmas Lights Switch on Event took place from 12noon on Saturday 18th November. Hundreds attended the event, which featured performances and entertainment throughout the day, and which culminated in a fantastic firework display. Thanks once again to Middleton Town Centre Management Company, and Middleton Shopping Centre for organising the event which was part funded by Middleton Township. The lights were switched on by “Maria” from Coronation Street and the Mayor of Rochdale, together with the MP Liz McInnes and Chair of Middleton Township June West. Feedback received via twitter and Facebook has been excellent.
Middleton Town Centre Management Company A six month update report was submitted to Middleton Township Committee. The report detailed events and initiatives that had taken place in Middleton during the Spring/Summer months, including an Easter Eggstravaganza, Teenage markets, summer holiday events and the introduction of brass bands in Middleton Gardens between April and September.
Middleton Triangle Public Realm & THI Works are now complete with just some snagging to be finalised. This scheme has been absolutely brilliant and has ensured that one of the main approaches into Middleton looks Fantastic.
Exedra There was an official unveiling of the Exedra held on the 12th October 2017.
Middleton Highways Champion A meeting was held on the 14th November. Topics covered were bridges, structures, Balfour Beatty updates and the 2016-18 Highways Maintenance Programme.
Page 133 Middleton Police, Community Safety & Members Briefing During this quarter Township Members once again met with the Middleton Police Inspector and Sergeant, information around crime statistics and planned policing operations was shared.
Meetings Attended (other than Council/ Township) In my capacity as Chair of Middleton Township I have attended the following; THI Board Meeting – 20th November 2017 The Regeneration meeting was held on 7th December
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the MiddletonTownship Committee.
Councillor June West Middleton Township Chair
Page 134 Agenda Item 8o
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE PENNINES TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Pennines Township.
Highways The Highways Service has completed the routine maintenance of all the road gullies in Pennines and are currently receiving a number of service requests to clear blocked gullies in the Township. Winter Service has also started with Council gritter vehicles being deployed across the Highway network and the high spots of Pennines Township. In the period since the last update four Township Commissions have been approved and Highways have started work on these commissions, five commissions are currently being reviewed by Township for funding to be potentially provided to Highways for priority issues.
Library Service We have just hosted an extremely successful 5th Literature and Ideas Festival that was attended by over 3000 people. Highlights included Terry Waite, Alan Johnson, Mandasue Heller and the event was closed by poet Tony Walsh. Littleborough library hosted an event – Thrills and Quills – where customers were invited to write a letter to Jane Austen. To mark the 200th anniversary of Jane Austens death customers were invited to write a letter to Jane outlining what it’s like living in the Northwest in 2017. The event was to celebrate the art of letter writing and a digital book of 200 selected letters will be produced.
Wardle library has been using reminiscence packs with a local group that have proved very successful. The art group has produced some great artwork and Volunteers have dressed the windows and they look fabulous.
Youth Service The Tuesday session at Milnrow youth group is becoming a really positive session. The group have taken part in some outdoor learning sessions at our forest site in Littleborough. We have concentrated on safety awareness with the girls in this quarter, informal and productive discussions have taken place highlighting personal safety, online safety and staying safe. The young girls also enjoyed an outdoor education session at our forest site where they worked on their team and communication skills and general outdoor education. They are now planning the annual Mayors Youth Awards for the borough. The Thursday session has reopened as an open access session for the young people, youth workers have Page 135 been conducting some positive works with the young people who are now planning on making an impact in the community. They have learnt baking skills and are planning to host local elderly residents in an inter-generational coffee evening event in December to conclude the project. It is hoped that this will be the first step towards improving relationships between the young people and the community in Milnrow. They have also been using rapping workshops to help them express themselves from which we hope that the young people will present a rap and a dance routine to the local community at the coffee evening.
From September there has been some big improvements regarding the behaviour of young people in and around Smallbridge youth club. The young people have created ground rules for the youth club which everyone attending has agreed to. The youth club gives young people an opportunity to use the computers and resources that they do not have access to at home to complete homework and improve their grades at school. A lot of the young people have discussed that this is a real help to them and it is making it easier for them to complete their homework instead of not doing it. Since September issues have been identified such as drugs, healthy relationships and bullying within the group. The youth workers have led discussion regarding these issues where the young people have asked questions and took ownership of the session discussing the difficulties for the young people on the Smallbridge estate. Following on from these discussions we have been working with young people about aspirations and positive planning for their futures.
Youth workers have been engaging young people through street based work in the Pennines. discussions have been held with young people who are causing anti- social behaviour at the tram stops, this is an ongoing piece of work which we hope to overcome with partnership working
Public Realm
Current Updates ASB joint visits with GMP continue to be undertaken in order to try and resolve issues locally including neighbour disputes. CCTV deployments are checked and monitored regularly in conjunction with PCSOs. Environmental Management receive complaints via the call centre regarding fly tipping, abandoned vehicles, graffiti, fly-posting and untidy gardens which the Public Realm Inspector (PRI) acts upon quickly to resolve. If evidence of offenders is available or witnesses are willing to provide statements an Enforcement action is pursued and managed by the PRI. PRI has served several legal notices throughout April – Sept 2017 upon traveller encampments in Milnrow which have caused damage to Stanneybrook Park. Legal Orders have been used in order to clear the sites. Inspectors are dealing with reports of anti-social behaviour at Milnrow Precinct involving groups of youths, possibly from other areas, entering the premises and stealing goods and intimidating staff. Dog fouling patrols are conducted regularly across the Township. Environmental Wardens are patrolling the Pennines regularly issuing Fixed Penalty Notices for littering, dog fouling etc
Page 136 Township Community News
Remembrance Sunday Crowds of people gathered across the Pennines to pay their respects at Littleborough, Milnrow and Wardle Services. Attendance grows year after year in particular the number of young people and families attending which is great to see. There has been a lot of time spent in arranging the parade and the service in Littleborough this year, thanks is given to the community representatives that have worked hard all year to ensure the event is safe and enjoyable for all.
Township Funding Funding has been approved for the following: wooden sheep and lamb sculptures in prominent locations around the Pennines; Littleborough Library to host a silent disco; Wardle Brass Bands to purchase new instruments; Milnrow and Districts Carnival Committee for 2018 celebrations.
Pennines in Bloom The group were awarded with a record number of Gold Awards for their entries this year, their yearlong hard work and preparations certainly paid off. Thanks to funding from Pennines Township, a number of new schemes were introduced. The group are already making preparations for next year.
Small Business Saturday Shops and businesses in Littleborough and Milnrow took part in the window dressing competition; the standard was really high this year making it difficult job for the judges. Raffles were held for shoppers in a bid to increase footfall and encourage people to shop local.
Christmas Lights Switch On Littleborough celebrated their Christmas lights switch on event with lots of family activities throughout the day, a parade and the turning on of the lights. The event is organised by Littleborough Events and Associations Forum who once again did a great job.
Councillor John Blundell Pennines Township Chair
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Pennines Township
Page 137 Agenda Item 8p
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE ROCHDALE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Rochdale Township.
Rochdale Town Hall Although the revised Stage 1 HLF bid for our fantastic Town Hall was unfortunately rejected in April 2017 due to the lack of available funds, we remain committed to safeguarding this Grade 1 Listed Building. We will be submitting a revised Stage 1 HLF bid in December 2017 and will continue to explore other funding options to restore the building. We also have plans in the pipeline to improve the Town Hall Square, including public realm improvements and the lighting of key heritage buildings.
Rochdale Riverside (Genr8) Following the planning application being approved earlier this year, the Council’s development partner has recently completed further extensive site investigations across the site to test the ground conditions prior to starting construction of the retail and leisure development in early 2018.
Rochdale Market The interim market is now well established at its temporary home on Baillie Street, Yorkshire Street and Lord Square. This temporary market is operating three days a week and will remain in place until the new market on The Butts is ready for occupation. The Santander building is owned by the Council and the second phase of work to adapt and renovate the property is now well under way.
Highways The Baillie Street/Yorkshire Street public realm improvement works have been completed and the area is currently hosting the temporary market. The project involved the provision of a high quality area of public realm using natural stone footway products and includes the provision of a rising bollard system to prevent illegal vehicular access to further enhance the area for pedestrians.
The resurfacing of Queensway, Rochdale has been completed between Dacer Road and the Kingsway/Oldham Road gyratory junction. The works involved the replacement of the existing road surface and the provision of new road markings. High friction surfacing has also been applied to the approaches of the existing pelican crossing.
Drive Safe, Stay Alive I recently attended a 90 minute performance featuring emergency service staff, convicted offenders, surviving victims of collisions and families that have lost loved ones who talk to the audience about their experiences of a road traffic collision.
Page 138 Heritage Lights I am pleased to report that our fabulous new heritage lights were restored in time for Remembrance Sunday. The cold weather didn’t deter the people of Rochdale from coming out in their hundreds to pay their respects.
Environmental Management Rochdale In Bloom partnership between our communities, schools, business and the Council has had major success in 2017, winning: Gold medal in the main category (small city) Silver gilt medal for the Town Centre Silver gilt medal for Norden Jubilee Park Gold medal awards also for the Flying Horse Hotel, Springhill Hospice, Zen Internet and silver gilt for Castleton Railway Station.
The following community projects were also awarded as follows: Moss Row Community Allotments: Level 5 outstanding Ravendale Sheltered Housing: Level 4 thriving Rochdale FC Wonderwall: Level 4 thriving Outdoor learning centre at Roch Valley Way: Level 5 outstanding Petrus Community Garden: Level 4 thriving Growth project – Kellet St Allotments: Level 5 outstanding
A green flag award raising ceremony took place for all our award winning sites in Rochdale Township: Town Centre parks incorporating Broadfield Park, Packer Spout and St. Chad’s Gardens, and Rochdale Memorial Gardens.
Denehurst Park phase 1 infrastructure improvements are now completed and additional external funding bids are nearing completion for additional grant funding for play area improvements.
Rochdale Township Committee A presentation was received which detailed the Compulsory Purchase Order process. Reports were presented in relation to the Capital budget, upgrades of footpaths/bridleways, land disposals and discressionary fees and charges.
Remembrance Sunday It was an honour to be able to lay a wreath, as Rochdale Township Chair, at our Cenotaph in honour of all those men and women who gave their lives to protect our country.
Page 139 Former Turner Brothers Site
On Monday 2nd October 2017, residents were invited to a meeting to discuss the recent air sampling report in the Turner Brothers site. Many questions were raised during discussion, and full responses have been issued to all attendees.
Area Forums
Balderstone & Kirkholt The group was given details of a community event with a ‘Western’ theme that was held on Monday 20 November at St. Thomas’ Church. The event incorporated the switching on of the Christmas tree lights. Updates were given by Ward Councillors, and by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and the ‘Kirkholt Millions’ project.
Bamford & Oakenrod There was an interesting discussion about the Emergency Services appropriate use of sirens. Residents raised queries in relation to pest control charges, and Greater Manchester Police gave an update on the latest crime figures. A speeding initiative together with a request for the speed enforcement vehicle was made.
Brimrod, Marland & Sudden The Community Coordinator from Neighbourhood Services attended to speak about his Home Office funded role. Greater Manchester Police gave information regarding current crime trends and gave details of the ‘Safe Drive Stay Alive’ campaign.
Castleton A presentation was given to residents on the Castleton Masterplan and how they can input into the proposed extension of the heritage line of the East Lancs Railway into Castleton. Residents raised more concerns regarding the use of the former Woolworths site, now occupied by Tetrosyl, and also enquired about the public consultation carried out before the determination of planning applications. The forum also discussed matters such as litter, speeding HGV’s, pollution and the TRO process. Residents expressed their appreciation and support for the Rochdale Township In Bloom groups and praised their massive success in 2017.
Central Rochdale Residents raised concerns into littering and a need for greater education. The forum was given information relating to crime statistics for the ward. There was a discussion about flooding and residents felt that the likelihood of further floods should be considered when plans are being discussed. Information was given in relation to youth provision.
Healey There was some discussion around a lack of progress with improvements around Syke Pond; however some new signage was agreed. The forum was given details about the City of Trees Project and their recent visit to the common. Councillors gave updates to residents, and acknowledged concerns regarding speeding traffic on Shawclough Road.
Page 140 Kingsway Some residents enquired about the possibility that they themselves could take upon the role of ‘community speed wardens’ to check speeds of vehicles frequenting the Milnrow Rd and surrounding areas. A request was made for additional assistance from parking services in targeting illegally parked vehicles near to the Croft Shifa building. Littering and fly tipping grot spots were highlighted for the Public Realm Inspector / Council’s Environmental Management team to address.
The forum heard the good news that kick pitch at Robinson’s Common is still progressing nicely, with a planning permission being submitted, and further plans for a wild flower meadow to be planted near to the area along with an allotment in due course.
The forum was asked to consider any local community groups or identify areas of need which could potentially benefit from a grant of Township money using ward or the member’s funding.
Milkstone & Deeplish GMP confirmed that ‘Operation Dark Nights’ would commence imminently. Concerns were raised around prostitution, drug dealing and begging. The outcome of a recent traffic survey was discussed at length, during which it was agreed that a working party would be established to look at traffic/parking issues as a whole. There were also concerns about the number of cars parked ‘for sale’ on the highway.
Norden There was no update available for this report due to the timing of the area forum.
Spotland & Falinge The Forum received responses to the action points that were raised at the Area Forum meeting held in relation to the results of the TBA perimeter air sampling survey. A lengthy discussion took place about the problems being experienced by residents by off-road bikes. Rooley Moor was identified as a particular hot spot. Concerns were also raised about anti-social behaviour in Falinge Park. The Forum congratulated the In Bloom working group and Environmental Management on the success achieved during this years’ competition by Rochdale Township. It was explained that work within the Ward was already underway to support Rochdale Township in next year’s event. The Forum was also consulted on the proposals for developing Ings Lane Play Area – responses were of a positive nature.
Councillor Shaun O’Neill Rochdale Township Chair
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Rochdale Township
Page 141 Agenda Item 9a
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
OUTSIDE BODY REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE LEAD MEMBER FOR THE ARMED FORCES MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON 13TH DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Armed Forces military covenant.
Remembrance Sunday Boroughwide Thousands gathered across the Borough on Sunday 12th November for Remembrance Day Services to honour the nation's war heroes. Representatives from the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force joined veterans and civic dignitaries for parades and services in Rochdale town centre, Heywood, Littleborough, Middleton, Milnrow and Wardle.
Street renaming Capt Henry Hill MC at Heywood - Architect of St Joseph’s Parish church The street unveiling service took place at the Guinness Partnership housing development, off Mary Street on Saturday, 21 October 2017 at 11am. Heywood came together to commemorate the life of Henry Hill - a revered local figure who was killed in action during World War I. The flight commander was just 29-years-old when, on a dangerous night mission, his plane was shot down behind enemy lines on Saturday, 21 October 1917.
Ark Royal Avenue at Castleton Two signs will be unveiled in 2018, one in tribute to all who served on Ark Royal and one sign in tribute to all who worked at Whipp and Bourne who supplied switchgear for the Ark Royal - unveiling to be done by ex Ark Royal Engineer.
Heywood Veterans Coffee Morning Heywood Veterans Coffee Morning (The Sandbag) takes place at the Sandon Community Centre in Heywood every Tuesday morning. The Coffee morning along with Rochdale Veterans Breakfast Club offers informal welfare support to veterans.
Festival Of Remembrance The Festival, supported by Rochdale Council and Rochdale branch of The Royal British Legion, took place on Friday 02 November. The evening was well attended by the Armed Forces Family and the wider Community.
Fusilier 50 The Royal Regiment Of Fusiliers has its 50th Anniversary in 2018. They will exercise their right to March Through Rochdale with Bayonets fixed. A function will follow at Rochdale Town Hall.
World War 1 Centenary Year we are working with Environmental service and Townships to deliver a Borough Wide bedding scheme in 2018 around the Centenary of the end of The Great War.
Councillor Alan McCarthy LEAD MEMBER FOR THE ARMED FORCES Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Armed Forces
Page 142 Agenda Item 9b
ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL
OUTSIDE BODY REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL
REPORT OF THE REPRESENTATIVE TO THE TRANSPORT FOR GREATER MANCHESTER COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 13th DECEMBER 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Committee.
Police Community Support Officers I am pleased to inform Council that Greater Manchester’s transport networks has been bolstered with the addition of 10 new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). The 10 officers have joined the ranks of the region’s TravelSafe Partnership (TSP), a multi-agency approach set up to tackle and reduce crime and antisocial behaviour (ASB) on the region’s bus and tram networks. The new officers will provide an increased staff presence on the various transport networks, particularly in the evening and at weekends.
This is the latest move to enhance the TSP and brings the total of new PCSOs that have joined the unit since the summer to 30, with a further 20 set to join over the coming months. In the summer, the Metrolink operator Keolis Amey Metrolink introduced 900 hours per week of additional security support onto the tram network when they took over the running of the country’s largest light rail system. This equated to 24 new TravelSafe Officers (TSOs) who were all Security Industry Authority accredited.
The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Beverley Hughes, welcomed the commitment that would prioritise a greater staffing presence on the transport networks, particularly in the evenings and on weekends, and the addition of these extra officers will complement the excellent work already being undertaken to keep the networks as safe as possible. Beverley Hughes stated that: “The continuing expansion of the team should send out two clear messages: that anybody using Greater Manchester’s transport network should feel safe and secure and that antisocial behaviour will never be tolerated.”
Pennine Local Link On 21st November I chaired a productive meeting of the Pennine Local Link Group which was attended by several Pennines Township Councillors and staff from TfGM. The meeting had been called to discuss recommendations to withdraw the Pennine Local Link service contract which was due to expire in January 2018. This service had been established as a result of concerns expressed by Councillors about the lack of public transport following a commercial service withdrawal in 2017. The local link was a similar model to the Ring and Ride service. Background information was given advising of TfGM’s decision making process. The decision was deferred at a recent Bus Network Committee meeting, pending consultation with Pennines Township Councillors. During the period of operation there have been eight different people using the service and between them they have made 483 trips. Page 143 Following consideration of the Pennine Local Link Service statistics were presented which included the high cost per trip and that the service was not attracting the amount of numbers for it to be viable. In light of this the Councillors voted to support the recommendation by TfGM to withdraw the Pennine Local Link from 28th January 2018.
The Pennine Local Link had been introduced at the end of January 2017 following requests from Councillors who were concerned about a lack of public transport in the area. The Local Link service was specifically designed in response to the curtailment of the 182 service. The service cost was £57,770 per year. The service also took passengers to the Royal Oldham Hospital and to the Rochdale Interchange.
Anti-Social Behaviour The TfGM Committee at its meeting on 17th November 2017 discussed transport trends across the Greater Manchester footprint and following on from the terrorist attack at the MEN Arena 22nd May, TSU deployments were altered to focus on public reassurance in and around Manchester city centre, although some deployments were still tasked with dealing with anti-social behaviour on the transport network. Rochdale had experienced significant issues with a group of teenagers between April and June 2017 and a multi-agency approach involving GMP/TSU/Metrolink/local authority children’s services/Youth Offending Teams had been adopted to address this issue. Additional TSU patrols were deployed and NPTs put extra Police Officers in the town centre, which culminated in the main ringleaders being served a CBO (Banning Order) banning them from Rochdale town centre and transport hubs. As a result of these interventions problems at Rochdale Interchange has thankfully been substantially reduced.
412 Bus Service The current contract for the 412 (Middleton – Royton – Oldham) bus service is due to expires in January 2018 and has been reviewed to ensure the continued best use of TfGM funds. To ensure that a service can be maintained within acceptable cost per passenger targets, it is proposed that the Monday to Saturday day-time timetable be revised (with effect from 28th January 2018) to operate every 90 minutes, (rather than every 60 minutes at present). The service from Oldham would start later on Mondays to Fridays (08:27 from Oldham, rather than 06:46) and finish earlier (14:27 from Oldham rather than 17:06). Journeys towards Oldham will, it is proposed, finish earlier on Mondays to Friday (last trip leaves Middleton at 13:39, rather than 17:48). The proposals would affect an average of 2.64 passengers per trip on the early morning journeys from Oldham, 7.2 passengers per trip on the late afternoon journeys from Oldham and 6.07 passengers per trip on the late afternoon journeys from Middleton.
Rail Safety Week As part of a week of events designed to raise awareness of the dangers of trespass on the railway, Manchester Piccadilly station hosted a stand attended by TfGM, Keolis/Amey, Metrolink, Network Rail, BTP, Greater Manchester Fire Service and the St John’s Ambulance. The event started early in the morning giving out safety leaflets to the morning rush hour passengers. Manchester's Key 103 radio also featured rail safety week in their news every hour from 6am on the day. Metrolink’s Page 144 tram simulator proved very popular with the public, giving them an insight in to how it looks from a driver’s point of view and highlighting the hazards and concentration it takes operating a tram through the busy city centre. The representatives of St. John's Ambulance were fantastic, as ever, giving advice and practical demonstrations throughout the day. Over 500 goodie bags, 1,000 safety leaflets, water bottles, mugs and pens were distributed throughout the day, ensuring positive engagement with passengers.
Anti-Social Behaviour on Rochdale Rail Line Sadly I also have to report on more anti-social behaviour, this time on the railway service. TfGM have been working with colleagues at British Transport Police and with their own Travel Safe Unit after complaints of numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour at stations along the Rochdale line. Amongst other incidents, planters had been set alight, trampled on and thrown onto the tracks at Rochdale and station staff have, additionally, reported suffering verbal and threatening abuse. TfGM has requested that the current town centre dispersal zone order (which currently does not include Rochdale train station and tram stops) is extended in order to do so.
Moston station, in Manchester, on the Rochdale line, has been repeatedly targeted by vandals who have caused substantial damage to Northern Rail’s new waiting shelters. British Transport Police have increased patrols at the station and on 29th September undertook an operation targeting all stations along the line, using both covert and uniformed officers. CCTV is now to be installed at Moston station as part of a station improvement programme, to be carried out in 2018.
Women’s Cycling initiative An initiative to get more wore women cycling in Greater Manchester is to run again following on from previous similar successful initiatives over the last few years. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is to urge women to get on their bikes by offering cycle clubs, groups and not-for-profit organisations the chance to apply for grants of up to £2,500 towards events and activities. The three month-long ‘celebration of cycling’ starts in January and runs until the end of March 2018. The various events are aimed at encouraging complete beginners to give cycling a go, through to women returning to cycling or those who may need a bit more confidence. This year TfGM is looking for groups to run a whole programme or series of events rather than a one-off, single-day event. The grants can fund a variety of activities such as bike maintenance sessions, talks and led rides. The Urban Fitness Collective, an Old Trafford-based initiative that trains young people to become leaders through sport, ran an event last year, which had proved to be a great success. More information on how to apply is via the TfGM Cycling team on 0161 244 1000 or by email on: [email protected].
Community Work TfGM’s has a small grants fund that is now available and is accepting bids from Community Rail Partnerships and individual station Friends Groups. The fund is administered by ACoRP and details can be found at https://acorp.uk.com/
TfGM continues to work with different station Friends groups, across the Greater Manchester footprint, and other stakeholders and has contributed to volunteer days and improvements at Rochdale, Woodsmoor and Patricroft stations.
Page 145 Rochdale station has had existing planters refurbished and the installation of new planters, along with a clean-up of the subway area. TfGM staff worked with the various local Friends groups and further enhancements will be made to the areas in the forthcoming weeks.
Thank you Mr Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee.
Councillor Phil Burke Councillor Shah Wazir Councillor Pat Sullivan
Transport for Greater Manchester Committee
Page 146 Agenda Item 10
Report to Council
Date of Meeting 13th December 2017 Portfolio Councillor Allen Brett Cabinet Member for Corporate & Resources Report Author Alison James Public/Private Document Public
Decisions Taken Under Special Urgency Provisions
Executive Summary
1. The report details an executive decision taken under special urgency provision, by the Chief Executive since the last meeting of Council on 5th October 2017.
1.1 The Chief Executive has taken one special urgent decision since the last meeting of Full Council relating to the funding for the Rochdale Riverside Development. The Chief Executive, following consultation with portfolio holders, exercised his delegation and approved the adjusted funding offer having secured additional funding from the preferred funder and from the Council’s reserves.
Recommendation
2 The decision taken by the Chief Executive under special urgency provisions be noted.
Reason for Recommendation
3. In accordance with the Council’s Constitution, decisions taken as a matter of special urgency shall be reported to the next available meeting of the Council, together with the reasons for special urgency.
Key Points for Consideration
4. Cabinet, at their meeting on the 13th June 2017, noted that the development costs for the Rochdale Riverside development were yet to be finalised and made provision for the Chief Executive to determine any adjusted costs following consultation with relevant portfolio holders.
Upon finalisation of the costs of the scheme, the Chief Executive exercised his delegation.
Page 147 The decision was determined to be a key decision. Due to time constraints relating to the progress of the project, the Chair of the Communities Regeneration and Environment Scrutiny Committee agreed that this was a matter of special urgency and waived call-in on this item.
Alternatives Considered
There are no alternatives to consider as the reporting of special urgency decisions to Council is a Constitutional requirement.
Costs and Budget Summary
5. There are no direct financial implications to this report. Information relating to the budget was reported to the decision maker at the time of determination.
Risk and Policy Implications
6. Not adhering to requirements of the Council’s Constitution may leave the Council open to legal challenge.
Consultation
7. There is no consultation required for this report.
Background Papers Place of Inspection
8. There are no background papers N/A
For Further Information Contact: Alison James, Tel:01706 924711 [email protected]
Page 148 Agenda Item 11
4
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY, HELD ON FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2017 AT TRAFFORD TOWN HALL
PRESENT:
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham Deputy Mayor Baroness Beverley Hughes (Police and Crime) Bolton Council Councillor Linda Thomas Bury Council Councillor Rishi Shori Manchester CC Councillor Richard Leese, Deputy Mayor Oldham Council Councillor Jean Stretton Rochdale MBC Councillor Richard Farnell Salford CC City Mayor, Paul Dennett Stockport MBC Councillor Alex Ganotis Tameside MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn Trafford Council Councillor Sean Anstee Wigan Council Councillor Peter Smith
OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDENCE:
Fire Committee Chair Councillor David Acton GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGM Councillor Andrew Fender
OFFICERS IN ATTENDENCE:
GMCA Chief Executive Eamonn Boylan GMCA – Deputy Chief Executive Andrew Lightfoot GMCA – Monitoring Officer Liz Treacy GMCA – Treasurer Richard Paver Office of the GM Mayor Kevin Lee Bolton Council Margaret Asquith Manchester CC Joanne Roney Oldham Council Helen Lockwood Rochdale MBC Steve Rumbelow Salford CC Jim Taylor Stockport MBC Pam Smith Tameside MBC Steven Pleasant Trafford Council Joanne Hyde Wigan Council Donna Hall TfGM Steve Warrener GM H&SCP Chief Executive Jon Rouse Manchester Growth Co Mark Hughes
1 Page 149 GMCA Sylvia Welsh GMCA Nicola Ward
148/17 APOLOGIES
Apologies for absence were received and noted from Chief Executives – Peter O’Reilly (GMFRS – Tony Hunter attending), Pat Jones-Greenhalgh (Bury Council) Carolyn Wilkins (Oldham Council – Helen Lockwood attending), Theresa Grant (Trafford Council – Joanne Hyde attending), Simon Nokes (GMCA), Julie Connor (GMCA), Ian Hopkins (GMP) and Jon Lamonte (TfGM – Steve Warrener attending).
149/17 CHAIR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND URGENT BUSINESS a) Passing of Councillor Paul Longshaw
The Greater Manchester Mayor expressed his condolences regarding the passing of Councillor Paul Longshaw who had served for many years as a housing officer, and then as a local councillor in Salford, making a strong and positive contribution to housing issues for Greater Manchester. b) Conservative Party Conference
The Greater Manchester Mayor reported that there were a number of demonstrations planned in Manchester during the Conservative Party Conference, and in anticipation himself, the Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime and Councillor Sean Anstee had met with Greater Manchester Police to develop a response plan in place to prevent any intimidation, violence or abuse to people in Manchester during this event. He expressed thanks to colleagues for all their work on this plan.
150/17 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in Items 20, and 23, as Leader of Manchester City Council, who are a development partner of Allied London of the St Johns scheme, and in Items 21 and 24 as a Director of the Manchester Life Board.
151/17 GMCA APPOINTMENT OF ASSISTANT PORTFOLIO HOLDERS
The Greater Manchester Mayor shared a report which detailed those elected members nominated as Assistant Portfolio Holders in working towards a more gender balanced GMCA, advising that nominations from Trafford will be confirmed after the meeting.
RESOLVED /-
2 Page 150 That those members nominated as Assistant Portfolio Holders be appointed and that authority be delegated to the Mayor, in consultation with Portfolio Leaders, to agree the allocation of portfolio responsibilities.
152/17 MINUTES OF THE GMCA MEETING HELD ON 28 JULY 2017
The minutes of GMCA meeting held on 28 July 2017 were submitted for consideration.
Councillor Richard Leese updated members on activity undertaken in relation to minute 136/17 Transport for the North (TfN) and Rail North. He reported that there had been new Regulations from the Secretary of State which included revised guidelines for the appointment of representation of Combined Authorities to Transport for the North, which brought the process in line with the appointment processes for other constituent authorities. He also reported that TfN was to be given some concurrent local transport functions consistent with the original proposal.
The Greater Manchester Mayor welcomed these changes and asked the GMCA to support the amendments to the Regulations being made.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 28 July 2017 be approved as a correct record.
2. That the GMCA support the Sub-national Transport Bodies (Transport for the North) Regulations following amendments to the appointment process.
153/17 MINUTES OF THE TRANSPORT FOR GREATER MANCHESTER COMMITTEE HELD ON THE 15 SEPTEMBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
That the minutes of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee held on the 15 September 2017 be noted.
154/17 MINUTES OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP HELD ON THE 18 SEPTEMBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
That the minutes of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership held on the 18 September 2017 be noted.
3 Page 151 155/17 OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEES MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
1. That the minutes of the Housing, Planning and Environment Scrutiny Committee held 7 September 2017 be noted.
2. That the minutes of the Economy, Business Growth and Skills Scrutiny Committee held 8 September 2017 be noted.
156/17 GMCA SCRUTINY NOMINATIONS, PROPOSED CALL-IN OF DECISIONS, PROCEDURE RULES AND KEY DECISION FINANCIAL THRESHOLDS.
Liz Treacy, GMCA Monitoring Officer presented a report which set out the GMCA’s proposed arrangements for a scrutiny call-in procedure, and specified key decision thresholds which have both been reviewed and agreed by the Economy, Business Growth & Skills and Housing, Planning & Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committees, with the Corporate Issues & reform Overview and Scrutiny Committee to consider the issues at their forthcoming meeting.
The report further detailed the remaining four members to be appointed to each committee, and the names of 14 other members from across Greater Manchester to be appointed as a pool substitute members.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the following additional members be appointed to the three Scrutiny Committees:
Economy, Business Growth & Skills Overview & Scrutiny
Cllr Roy Walker Bury Cllr Cecile Biant Rochdale Cllr Grace Fletcher-Hackwood Manchester Cllr Barry Brotherton Trafford
Housing, Planning & Environment Overview & Scrutiny
Cllr Andrew Morgan Bolton Cllr Anne Stott Rochdale Cllr Michele Barnes Salford Cllr Frederick Bown Walker Wigan
Corporate Issues & Reform Overview & Scrutiny
Cllr John McGahan Stockport Cllr Luke Raikes Manchester
4 Page 152 Cllr Leanne Feeley Tameside Cllr Colin McLaren Oldham
2. That the following members are appointed as substitutes to each of the three Scrutiny Committees:
Bolton Cllr Debbie Newall Cllr David Greenhalgh
Bury Cllr Jamie Walker - Manchester Cllr Rebecca Moore - Oldham Cllr John Mccann - Rochdale Cllr Peter Malcolm - Salford Cllr Christopher Clarkson Cllr Karen Garrido Tameside Cllr Adrian Pearce Cllr Ruth Welsh Trafford Cllr James Wright Cllr Bernard Sharp Wigan Cllr James Grundy Cllr Michael Winstanley
3. That the call-in process agreed by the Economy, Business Growth & Skills and Housing, Planning & Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committees set out in section 3 be approved.
4. That the key decision financial threshold of £500,000 agreed by the Economy, Business Growth & Skills and Housing, Planning & Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committees be noted.
5. That the proposed amendment of the GMCA Constitution to make provision for substitute members of the Overview and Scrutiny Committees be approved.
157/17 SCHOOL READINESS
The Greater Manchester Mayor informed the meeting of the work being undertaken across Greater Manchester to raise the rates of school readiness, as latest reports had indicated that there were 12,000 reception age children this September who were not school-ready. The Reform Board have set a new ambition for Greater Manchester to increase ‘good level of development’ levels to above national average over the next five years. To support this shared ambition, a Greater Manchester School Readiness Summit has been scheduled on the 20 October 2017, which will bring together schools and other partner organisations to address early year’s issues and health inequalities. School-readiness will remain a key priority for Greater Manchester going forward.
158/17 UPDATE ON HIGH RISE TOWERS
Paul Dennett, Portfolio Lead for Housing, Planning and Homelessness, introduced a report updating members on the issues arising from the fire at Grenfell Tower in London, the impact of this in Greater Manchester and the
5 Page 153 work which is being undertaken to provide reassurance to residents and others.
Paul Dennett expressed thanks to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service for all their support in the joint inspection of over 508 properties over the past three months, ensuring that all residential properties in Greater Manchester had been inspected. Current Safety regulations do not go far enough and it was recognised that there are changes that need to be implemented ahead of the outcomes of the Grenfell Public Inquiry. The GMCA is committed to participating fully in the Reviews, however, the implementation of measures do need to be progressed at the earliest opportunity and in advance of the conclusion of the Inquiry. It was important that the role of the Fire and Rescue Service was embedded in all stages of the lifecycle of developments.
Councillor David Acton further added that Greater Manchester does need to develop a ‘gold standard’ of fire safety for its residents and other vulnerable buildings, and eventually the introduction of a system whereby all new housing developments will be fitted with sprinklers, in line with regulations in place Wales.
The GM Mayor thanked Councillors and Officers for all their work following the Grenfell Towers incident and welcomed any reassurance, information sharing and standards raising activity to support the residents of Greater Manchester. He requested that the GMCA be updated on a regular basis.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the work of the Greater Manchester High Rise Task Force be recognised and supported.
2. That the need to develop and introduce new approaches ahead of the outcomes of the Public Inquiry and Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety be agreed.
3. That the development of a new and consistent approach across all Greater Manchester boroughs as outlined in the report be supported.
4. That the GMCA be kept regularly updated on progress.
159/17 METROLINK FARES
The GM Mayor introduced a report seeking approval for the proposed changes to the Metrolink fares structure. He reminded the meeting that in January 2014 a decision was taken to freeze fares for a short period, however to ensure the sustainability of the system the fare prices now need to be brought into line.
TfGM have undertaken a survey on two options; a one-off fare increase in January 2018 and then reverting to RPI +1% from January 2019; and
6 Page 154 spreading the fare increase over three years from January 2018 through to January 2020 and then reverting back to RP+1% in January 2021.
The survey ran from 26 June to 18 August, with over 5000 responses received, with the majority voting in favour of the option to spread the cost of the increase over three years. The report also proposed a 50% rate fare for under 18s and a 50% fare for 16-18 year olds travelling off peak.
Councillor Sean Anstee broadly supported the proposals, but suggested they should be benchmarked to provide an evidence base to ensure that the fare prices remain competitive and future proofing the system going forward.
Councillor Kieran Quinn concurred with the proposals and urged that the fares structure be reviewed across Greater Manchester from a whole system approach and reviewed as part of the budget scrutiny process.
The GM Mayor confirmed the requirement for greater transparency regarding funding decisions and welcomed the standardisation of under 16’s fares. Further reports would come to the GMCA as we move towards an integrated ticketing approach.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the results of the recent Metrolink fares survey be noted.
2. That it be noted that the proposals in the report have been shared with TfGMC Members.
3. That the following changes to the Metrolink fares structure be agreed:
to implement a phased, three year, fare increase, commencing in January 2018, in line with the results of the fare survey
to revert to annual fare changes of RPI+1% from January 2021
to harmonise all child fares at 50% of the adult fare
to extend the child fare for off-peak day and weekend travelcards to 16-18 year olds
to increase the price of ‘quick issue’ special event tickets
to approve in principle the introduction of a 5-18 year old special event ticket priced at 50% of the revised adult price, subject to further work on the operational implications of such a ticket
7 Page 155 160/17 GMCA LOCAL GROWTH DEAL (1, 2 & 3) 6 MONTHLY TRANSPORT UPDATE
The Mayor of Greater Manchester introduced a report which updated members an update on the latest position in relation to the Local Growth Deal Transport Programme (Tranches 1, 2 and 3) following on from the last update in March 2017.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the current position in relation to the current Growth Deal Major Schemes programme be noted.
2. That the current position in relation to the current Growth Deal Minor works and Additional Priorities programmes be noted.
3. That the current position in relation to the third round of Local Growth Deal funding and the proposed associated governance arrangements in relation to these schemes following acceptance into the Programme in March 2017 be noted.
4. That the addition of the Growth Deal 3 (GD3) transport schemes into the capital programme, noting that the GD3 programme was previously approved at the GMCA meeting in March 2017 be approved.
5. That the forecast expenditure for 2017/18 in relation to the Growth Deal 3 schemes was £1.3 million be noted.
161/17 GMCA CULTURAL PROGRAMME CONSULTATION
Councillor Cliff Morris, Portfolio Lead for Culture, Arts & Leisure, introduced a report informing members of progress to date on the consultation exercise into the proposed closure of the AGMA Section 48 grants fund, and the completion of the consultation on the introduction of a new GMCA Culture and Social Impact Programme. He reported that some of the grant applicants had requested the ability to extend their grant further than two years and that this would be one of the issues for further consideration.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the outcome and mitigating actions of the completed consultation on a new GMCA Culture and Social Impact Programme be noted.
2. That progress on the consultation regarding potential closure of the AGMA Section 48 grants programme be noted.
3. That the revised criteria for a GMCA Cultural and Social Impact programme be agreed.
8 Page 156 4. That agreement is given to proceed with a new GMCA Cultural and Social Impact programme, with calls for projects beginning in October 2017 and the new programme going live from April 2018.
162/17 GMCA CULTURAL PORTFOLIO GOVERNANCE
Councillor Cliff Morris, Portfolio Lead for Culture, Arts & Leisure, introduced a report which proposed an outline governance structure for the GMCA Culture, Arts and Leisure portfolio in order to ensure delivery of portfolio responsibilities.
It was suggested and agreed that the Statutory Functions Committee is asked to regularly review the allocations made through the proposed new GMCA Programme to ensure that decision making was strongly supported by clear performance monitoring. The need to ensure that various sized organisations were considered to ensure a range of programmes across the whole of Greater Manchester can be delivered.
The GM Mayor acknowledged that longer term funding would also be considered in future, adding that it was intended to further strengthen GM’s cultural offer, with potential to use the ‘Town of Culture’ Initiative to drive Town Centre Regeneration.
The GM Mayor thanked Councillor Cliff Morris and Donna Hall in progressing the cultural programme of work.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the outline proposal be approved with authority delegated to the Portfolio Lead Chief Executive for Culture, Arts and Leisure, in consultation with the Portfolio Lead for Culture, Arts & Leisure to set up the governance structure, with a further report to be submitted to the GMCA once the governance structures have been established.
2. That Councillor Sean Anstee and a nomination from Rochdale Council (name to be confirmed) be appointed to sit on a joint GMCA/LEP Panel chaired by the Portfolio Lead for Culture, Arts and Leisure to select the Greater Manchester bid for this Fund.
3. That as part of the governance arrangements for the administration of the new GMCA Culture Programme, the Statutory Functions Committee is asked to monitor performance of organisations in receipt of grants from the new programme.
163/17 GREATER MANCHESTER TACKLING VIOLENT EXTREMISM AND PROMOTING SOCIAL COHESION COMMISSION
9 Page 157 The Greater Manchester Mayor prefaced consideration of the report by acknowledging that Greater Manchester remains in recovery following the attack on the Manchester Arena. In response to the attack an Independent review of the events and aftermath of the Manchester Arena Attack had been commissioned and was now underway. The review will look responses from across at a range of agencies to better understand lessons learnt.
Councillor Rishi Shori took members through the report which provided an update on the progress made that has been to establish the Commission to tackle violent extremism and promote social cohesion.
He added that the Commission is a vital piece of work for Greater Manchester and was key to promoting social cohesion across communities, with initial ambitions to develop a Greater Manchester Charter of values for communities, create a programme that supports inclusion irrespective of social determinants, identify opportunities for implementing the ‘prevent’ agenda and highlight other ways to bring Greater Manchester together. A further report on progress will be submitted to the GMCA in Spring 2018.
The meeting was advised that a number of Channel and Peer Reviews were underway, which should feed into the work of the Commission. He also advised that going forward local authorities would be responsible for ‘prevent’ with a request that a Greater Manchester approach be developed feeding into the work of the Commission. Councillor Rishi Shori assured members that this work was already in train and would be addressed by the Commission.
In conclusion the GM Mayor suggested that the quality of the Commission membership was a clear indication of how serious Greater Manchester was in tackling these issues. Developing the trust of communities will ensure that the ‘prevent’ agenda can be progressed. He also commended the Manchester Evening News for the ‘We Stand Together ‘campaign, which has helped capture the spirit of the city in the aftermath of the event. The Arena had now reopened and families continue to be supported.
He thanked Councillor Rishi Shori and Councillor Jean Stretton for progressing the establishment of the Commission.
RESOLVED /-
That the report be noted and an update upon completion of the work be brought to a future meeting of the GMCA.
164/17 GREATER MANCHESTER YOUTH COMBINED AUTHORITY
Councillor Rishi Shori, Portfolio Lead for Young People and Social Cohesion, introduced a report detailing the recommended membership and remit of the Youth Combined Authority, and seeking support for a budget allocation in order to establish and support the Youth Combined Authority.
10 Page 158 The development of a Youth Combined Authority was welcomed, acknowledging that they were likely to identify different priories and issues from the GMCA, with a commitment that the GMCA will listen, together with support and assistant available to ensure they feel part of the wider GMCA.
.
Members were made aware of the various initiatives currently underway by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to positively engage young people with an offer to extend the support where required.
Jon Rouse, GM Health and Social Care Partnership advised that he would refer the report the Children’s Health and Well Being Board.
The GM Mayor reminded the meeting that the GM Strategy includes an objective to make GM the best place to grow up and to make children ‘life ready’, he acknowledged the role of schools has changed, with new ways to be identified to provide support. He encouraged portfolio holders to be prepared to meet with the Youth GMCA to discuss particular areas of interest, with a view to inputting into the development of a number of key policy areas.
He also advised that work was underway regarding the introduction of travel concessions to assist with removing barrier to address the skills deficit.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the membership and remit of the Youth Combined Authority be approved.
2. That the first year funding for the Youth Combined Authority of £50,000, to be sourced from Greater Manchester collective budgets be approved.
3. That it be agreed that a review of the Youth Combined Authority deliverables and budget be carried out in September 2018.
165/17 BREXIT MONITOR – MONTHLY REPORT
Councillor Richard Leese, Portfolio Lead for Business & Economy, introduced report updating members on the key economic and policy developments in relation to the UK’s decision to leave the European Union (EU). The latest edition of the monthly Greater Manchester Brexit Monitor was shared to provide a real-time view of the economic and policy impact of Brexit, it showed a worsening of economic performance that was impacting employment levels and prosperity for residents of Greater Manchester.
11 Page 159 Representations continue to be made to Government to ensure Greater Manchester and other northern Combined Authorities are closely involved in the Brexit negotiation.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the contents of the September Brexit Monitor be noted.
2. That the GMCA make representation to Government to ensure that Greater Manchester are represented by the Greater Manchester Mayor at discussions regarding the outcomes of Brexit negotiations.
166/17 GREATER MANCHESTER DRAFT DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Councillor Richard Farnell, Portfolio Lead for Digital City-Region, introduced a report seeking the views of the GMCA on the Draft Plan which was designed to prepare Greater Manchester for the growth of the digital economy including the investment of broadband across all town and city centres and the platforms for supporting 5G mobile technology.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the priorities set out in the Draft Digital Infrastructure Implementation Plan, subject to further input from the Greater Manchester Digital Infrastructure Group formed following feedback from the Mayors Digital & Tech Summit on 7th July 2017 be agreed, in principle.
2. That it be noted that the Expression of Interest submitted to Government for its Full Fibre Networks Challenge Fund wss in line with priority to accelerate full fibre investment as set out in the draft implementation Plan.
3. That the ambitions and actions set out in this Plan will be finalised for GMCA consideration in December 2017 be noted.
167/17 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK UPDATE
Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in this report, as Leader of Manchester City Council, who are a development partner of Allied London of the St Johns scheme and left the room during the discussion of the report.
Councillor Kieran Quinn, Portfolio Lead for Investment Strategy and Finance presented a report seeking GMCA approval for loans to St Johns and
12 Page 160 littleblackdress. The loans will be made from recycled funds from the Regional Growth Fund Programme.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the funding applications by St Johns (loan of £3,000k) and littleblackdress (loan of £250k) be given conditional approval and progress to due diligence be agreed.
2. That authority be delegated to the GMCA Treasurer and GMCA Monitoring Officer to review the due diligence information and, subject to their satisfactory review and agreement of the due diligence information and the overall detailed commercial terms of the transactions, to sign off any outstanding conditions, issue final approvals and complete any necessary related documentation in respect of the loans at a) above be approved.
168/17 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT LOANS FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATION
Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in this report, as a Director of the Manchester Life Board and left the room during the discussion of the report.
City Mayor Paul Dennett, Portfolio Lead for Housing, Planning & Homelessness introduced a report which sought approval from the GMCA in respect of loans applied to and from the Greater Manchester Housing Investment Fund. He reported that the Housing Investment Fund had made loans totalling £360m since its establishment, creating the development of 285 affordable units and 32 social units and that these schemes to be approved will bring a further additional 86 affordable units.
The GM Mayor advised that a review of the criteria would be undertaken and submitted to the GMCA in November 2017.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the Greater Manchester Housing Investment Loans Fund loans in the table below, as detailed further in this and the accompanying Part B report be approved:
BORROWER SCHEME DISTRICT LOAN New Little Mill New Little Mill, Manchester £10,517,000 Developments Ancoats Ltd. Vesta Street Vesta Street, Manchester £20,694,000 Developments New Islington Ltd. Belgravia Living Tariff Street, Manchester £3,459,000
13 Page 161 (Burlington Piccadilly Basin House) Ltd. (in addition to £9.741m approved in August 2015) Princess Street Princess Street Manchester £7,690,000 Limited Partnership (in addition to £43.310m approved in March 2017) Keepmoat Charlestown Salford £3,320,000 Homes Ltd. Riverside The Oaks Gatley Stonepail Close, Stockport £4,220,000 Ltd. Gatley
2. That the GMCA recommends to Manchester City Council that it approves the above and prepares and effects the necessary legal agreements in accordance with its approved internal processes.
3. That authority be delegated to the Chief Executive of the Combined Authority / Lead Chief Executive, Housing and Planning, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning, Housing & Homelessness, to vary loans approved by the GMCA in line with recommendations from the Credit Committee.
169/17 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC
Members noted that the commercially sensitive information contained in Items 23 and 2 Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update and Greater Manchester Housing Investment Loans Fund – Investment Approval Recommendation was taken as read during consideration of the Part A Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update (minute ref 167/17 & 168/17 refers) and for this reason the exclusion resolution was not moved.
170/17 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK UPDATE
CLERK’S NOTE: This item was considered in support of the Part A Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update at minute 167/17 above.
171/17 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT LOANS FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATION
CLERK’S NOTE: This item was considered in support of the Part A Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update at minute 168/17 above.
14 Page 162
15 Page 163 4 MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY, HELD ON FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2017 AT THE LOWRY THEATRE, MEDIACITY
PRESENT:
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham Deputy Mayor Baroness Beverley Hughes (Police and Crime) Bolton Council Councillor Cliff Morris Bury Council Councillor Rishi Shori Manchester CC Councillor Richard Leese, Deputy Mayor Oldham Council Councillor Jean Stretton Rochdale MBC Councillor Richard Farnell Salford CC City Mayor, Paul Dennett Stockport MBC Councillor Alex Ganotis Tameside MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn Trafford Council Councillor Michael Whetton Wigan Council Councillor Peter Smith
OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDENCE:
Bolton Council Councillor Linda Thomas Stockport Council Councillor Wendy Wild Tameside Council Councillor Brenda Warrington Fire Committee Chair Councillor David Acton GMWDA, Chair Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGM, Chair Councillor Andrew Fender
OFFICERS IN ATTENDENCE:
GMCA Chief Executive Eamonn Boylan GMCA – Deputy Chief Executive Andrew Lightfoot GMCA – Monitoring Officer Liz Treacy GMCA – Treasurer Richard Paver Office of the GM Mayor Kevin Lee Bolton Council Margaret Asquith Bury Council Julie Gonda Manchester CC Joanne Roney Oldham Council Ray Ward Rochdale MBC Neil Thornton Salford CC Jim Taylor Stockport MBC Michael Cullen Tameside MBC Steven Pleasant Trafford Council Theresa Grant Wigan Council Donna Hall TfGM Steve Warrener
1 Page 164 Manchester Growth Co Mark Hughes GMFRS Dave Keelan GMCA Julie Connor GMCA Sylvia Welsh GMCA Nicola Ward
172/17 APOLOGIES
Apologies for absence were received and noted from Councillor Sean Anstee (Trafford Council), Councillor Michael Whetton attending) Chief Executives – Peter O’Reilly (GMFRS – Dave Keelan attending), Pat Jones-Greenhalgh (Bury Council – Julie Gonda attending), Carolyn Wilkins (Oldham Council – (Ray Ward attending), Ian Hopkins (GMP), Jon Lamonte (TfGM – Steve Warrener attending), Steve Rumbelow (Rochdale Council – Neil Thornton attending), and Pam Smith (Stockport MBC – Michael Cullen attending).
173/17 CHAIR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND URGENT BUSINESS a) GMCA Cohesion Commission
The GM Mayor announced that the first meeting of the new Cohesion Commission, established following the attack on the Manchester Arena, would be held later in the day and jointly chaired by Councillor Rishi Shori and Councillor Jean Stretton. He confirmed the full support of the GMCA and all GM public bodies and thanked all of the commissioners, who had agreed to serve on the Commission, for their time and support to the process. b) Kerslake Review – Emergency Services Response to the Manchester Arena Attack
The GM Mayor reminded the meeting that the Kerslake Review into the Emergency Services response to the Manchester Arena attack was now accepting submissions from those who were at the Arena or affected by the Manchester Arena Attack. Lord Bob Kerslake, Chair of the Review Panel, was inviting people to get in touch and provide any information which will help the Panel understand exactly how emergency services and others responded to the incident, as well as the actions across the city in the week afterwards. The closing date for submissions had been extended and would now close on 10 November 2017.
174/17 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in Items 19 and 21 as a Director of the Manchester Life Board.
2 Page 165 175/17 MINUTES OF THE GMCA MEETING HELD ON 29 SEPTEMBER 2017
The minutes of GMCA meeting held on 29 September 2017 were submitted for consideration.
RESOLVED /-
That the minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 29 September 2017 be approved as a correct record, subject to the inclusion of Councillor Brenda Warrington (Tameside MBC) to those in attendance at the meeting.
176/17 MINUTES OF THE GMCA AUDIT COMMITTEE HELD 20 SEPTEMBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
That the minutes of the GMCA Audit Committee held on the 20 September 2017 be noted.
177/17 MINUTES OF THE ECONOMY, BUSINESS GROWTH AND SKILLS OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE HELD ON 13 OCTOBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
That the minutes of the Economy, Business Growth and Skill Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 13 October 2017 be noted.
178/17 MINUTES OF THE CORPORATE ISSUES & REFORM OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE HELD ON 17 OCTOBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
1. That the minutes of the Corporate Issues and Reform Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 17 October 2017 be noted.
2. That the call in process and financial thresholds, as recommended by the Corporate Issues & Reform Overview and Scrutiny Committee, be approved.
179/17 MINUTES OF THE HOUSING, PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE HELD ON 18 OCTOBER 2017
RESOLVED /-
3 Page 166
1. That the minutes of the Housing, Planning & Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 18 October 2017 be noted.
2. That the resignation of Councillor Rob Chilton (Trafford) (Conservative) and the appointment of Councillor Bernard Sharpe (Trafford) (Conservative) to the Housing, Planning & Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted.
180/17 GREATER MANCHESTER STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
The GM Mayor introduced a report providing members with an update on the development of the Greater Manchester Strategy Implementation Plan, seeking approval for the Plan and actions contained within the Plan.
In introducing the report, the GM Mayor thanked members and officers for their contributions towards the development of the Implementation Plan, which provides a framework for the delivery of GM’s vision for the next 20 years, which was already the best place to live and work in the UK. He reiterated that GM’s vision was to leave no person or place behind; providing all children with the best start in life; by being school ready; helping young people to establish themselves; improving standards of work, with better paid and more secure jobs; creating a vibrant economy with decent, safe and affordable places to live, where nobody had to sleep rough on the streets and where older people were recognised for the contribution they make by promoting a positive vision of ageing and providing support throughout a longer life. He re- emphasised that this was a powerful Strategy that gave a clear direction for the City region with the power to deliver real change.
The Strategy has been developed with partners and has broad support across GM, including partners from the NHS, GM Police, fire and local employment partnership. The Strategy was be formally launched following the meeting.
He also reported on the recent School Readiness Summit which was very successful in bringing together key partners to agree a shared vision to increase levels of school readiness above the national average over the next 5 years. He also thanked everybody that attended the event.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the final version of the Greater Manchester Strategy Implementation Plan be agreed.
2. That the comments and actions arising from Scrutiny Committees be noted.
4 Page 167 3. That it be agreed that work will be undertaken with Portfolio Lead Chief Executives to determine any additional resource requirements from April 2018, to deliver the Greater Manchester Strategy in full.
4. That it be noted that the refreshed Greater Manchester Strategy and Implementation Plan would be launched following the close of the GMCA meeting on 27 October.
181/17 GREATER MANCHESTER HIGH SPEED 2 AND NORTHERN POWERHOUSE STRATEGIES
Councillor Richard Leese, Deputy Mayor for the GMCA and Portfolio Leader for Business and Economy, introduced a report providing members with an update on the HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Growth Strategy work and seeking a delegation to approve the Growth Strategy Summary Document.
He added that a key objective was to capitalise on the regeneration opportunity provided by HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail at Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport by proposing a series of complementary investments in order to maximise benefits to residents, local business and to the wider economy.
The work associated with Piccadilly Rail Station had the potential to create over 40,000 jobs and 13,000 homes and around Manchester Airport 20,000 additional jobs would also be created over the next 10 years, making a significant contribution to the economic growth of the region.
The Northern Powerhouse Business Plan was due to be completed before the end of 2018. Work was already underway on indicative routing, proposing a new line from Liverpool, joining HS2 just south of Manchester Airport, on to Piccadilly and then out via Bradford to Leeds. The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced funding for 5 of the 6 touch points between HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, however this did not include funding for the most important touch point at Piccadilly Rail Station. The importance of developing a strong case around Piccadilly Station was stressed, with 2 options currently being evaluated, including a basic Northern Powerhouse Station comprising a two platform station sitting alongside the High Speed 2 Station, sitting alongside the station at Piccadilly. This option would limit the number of services that could operate, with no growth potential for the future and would take a larger proportion of jobs away given it would be built on land which would otherwise be used for commercial purposes. The preferred option of MCC, GMCA and Transport for the North was for an underground station through station, with capacity for all proposed services up to and beyond 2023, with potential for a case to be developed for a new line to Leeds and Sheffield by 2033. This option had a less favourable cost benefit analysis but it would be short sighted not to future proof the capacity at Piccadilly Rail Station. A strong argument will need to be made to Government to progress this option.
5 Page 168 Members were also reminded that Transport for the North was a planning and development agency, established to specifically to develop and lobby for a pan northern infrastructure transport and digital infrastructure plan and to develop smart ticketing across the North of England and develop particular schemes, including the Northern Powerhouse Rail and did not duplicate the work of any other agency.
Members were reminded that there were three HS2 stations in GM, including Golborne Station in Wigan, with benefits also to be maximised for Wigan; highlighting links from the west of the conurbation to Scotland via links to the West Coast Main Line, which need to be considered in the developing strategies.
Councillor Michael Whetton added that transport links to these stations need to be supported by other infrastructure, highlighting Metrolink and road infrastructure to Manchester Airport, in particular, with designs where were efficiently and effective. There had been some concerns raised at the Manchester Airport Consultative Committee regarding linkages to the Rail Station.
He further commented that Trafford Council remain in opposition to the Golborne Spur. Councillor Richard Leese clarified that the Golborne Spur had been removed from the current plans for HS2, albeit that GM will continue to lobby for the spur to support the ambition for services to Glasgow and Edinburgh. It was strategically important to ensure that separate funding was identified for the Golborne spur to ensure the touch point was included for the future expansion of HS2.
The GM Mayor commented that the decisions taken in the next year would be critical for the future of rail in GM, and the investment in the west of conurbation and Manchester Piccadilly Station would be the hub of the revitalisation of the economy, therefore an underground rail station would increase the ability for additional housing and supporting infrastructure to support economic regeneration.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the report be noted.
2. That it be noted that the Growth Strategy Summary document had been approved at Manchester City Council Executive on 18 October 2017.
3. That the draft Growth Strategy Summary at Appendix 1, subject to the comments that may be received from Trafford MBC’s Executive meeting on 30 October 2017, be agreed.
4. That authority be delegated to the Chief Executive of GMCA, TfGM, Manchester City Council and Trafford Council, in consultation with the
6 Page 169 GM Mayor and Deputy Mayor for Economic Growth and Business, to finalise the Summary Document.
182/17 WOMEN AFFECTED BY PENSION AGE – TRAVEL CONCESSION PROPOSAL
The GM Mayor introduced a report seeking approval from GMCA to introduce a local travel concession for women in Greater Manchester most affected by the 2011 Pensions Act to accelerate the State Pension age increase.
He prefaced the report by reminding the meeting the proposition was developed in response to a national issue following the equalisation of pensionable age and the further acceleration which has caused serious hardship. A commitment was given in the Mayoral Election Campaign to do what we could to support those individuals affected. The meeting was advised that there wasn’t the funds available to help all those affected in GM. However, there was a commitment to help those most affected by the changes in 2011 by providing a free travel concession to those women on the date they would have expected to retire rather than the date they would now retire, to be funded from Earnback revenue. In recognition of the impact on equality for others it was proposed that a consultation exercise be undertaken on the proposition to introduce the concession from April 2018.
The GMCA was prepared to do whatever possible to assist those most affected, recognising that Government needed to listen to those women and to recognise the growing support of Parliament for there to be fair transitional arrangements. A solution to this at national level would negate the need for the GMCA to take action alone.
Councillor Linda Thomas welcomed the report, and recognised the small but important gesture of GMCA support to this group of women who could be facing financial difficulties as a result of this policy change, would send a message to Government and highlight those women living in poverty.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the report be noted.
2. That the proposition be approved, in principle, noting the liaison to be carried out with operators, the introduction from April 2018 of a local travel concession for women in GM born between October 1953 and November 1954. This group of women are those most affected by the 2011 Pensions Act which accelerated the increase in the State Pension age.
3. That a consultation exercise will be undertaken on the proposition to introduce the concession from April 2018.
7 Page 170 4. That the use of Earnback Revenue of up to £2.8 million to fund the forecast costs of these proposals be approved.
3. That a broader national campaign to support all women who are affected, including calling for a national government compensation scheme be supported.
183/17 GM EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT FRAMEWORK: IMPLEMENTATION
Councillor Michael Whetton introduced a report, on behalf of Councillor Sean Anstee, Portfolio Leader for Skills, Employment and Apprenticeships, which provided an update on the implementation of the GM Employer Engagement Framework and outlined the detailed priorities and immediate actions which would be the focus for the next six months.
The GM Mayor thanked Councillor Sean Anstee for the work undertaken, acknowledging that the proposals complemented the priorities within the GM Strategy and strengthened the relationships with businesses by engaging them as partners to deliver the objectives of developing the workforce and communities.
Councillor Richard Leese supported the recommendations and commented on Priority 4 and the co-design of GM Employers Charter, reiterating the importance of a real understanding of what co-design of policy means and how it was undertaken. Co-design had to be far more engaging, with partner involvement in writing and developing policy, which may be a longer process but would guarantee buy-in from employers. Given development of the partnership was a relatively new way of working for the GMCA, it may be necessary to undertake an internal piece of work to develop the approach to co-design going forward.
City Mayor, Paul Dennett welcomed the report and supported the comments around the development of co-design. He specifically raised Priority 2 and ensuring skills meet the needs of business but pointed out that it was also about meeting the needs of the GM economy and aligning that work to the economic strategy for GM; ensuring we build on the deep dives already undertaken, and taking an industrial sectoral and place based approach to the work.
In addition, there needs to be a focus on social value to encourage employers to pay the accredited living wage, where they can afford to do so and the issue of employment standards was at the heart of the work in terms of tackling some of the practices within the labour market and organisations across GM. Recognising there were some real challenges in terms of market pay, zero hour contracts and individuals needing to hold down a series of jobs to be able to make ends meet. The work needs to be resourced adequately, ensuring that there was joint work across the GM local authorities with a co-
8 Page 171 ordinated approach developed across the relevant GMCA activities and not seen in isolation.
Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime, Beverly Hughes, highlighted the role of employers across GM in both the public and private sector, in recognising the importance of promoting flexible hours for working families and shared care arrangements to support parents back to work. Alternatively the provision of high quality work place or other child care provision to support flexibility, which currently was not available in public sector child care, does need to be embedded and promoted in the conversation with employers. The public sector had the ability to lead the way to demonstrate how combining work and child care can benefit business. She added that there was both a social and economic business case to be delivered.
The GM Mayor welcomed and summarised the comments made at the meeting and the principle of co-design with partners and focussed on an inclusive approach to work which was critical for GM.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the employer engagement action and implementation plan be supported, in particular the commitment to co-design of the Employers Charter, aligning the priority needs of businesses within the GM Strategy priorities to ensure a place focus; in recognition of the importance of flexible working and child care options.
2. That it be noted that Policy leads for each of the five key priorities have been appointed and will monitor and feedback on progress against the actions within their priorities.
184/17 GREATER MANCHESTER WORK AND HEALTH PROGRAMME
Councillor Michael Whetton presented a report to members, on behalf of Councillor Sean Anstee, Portfolio Leader for Skills, Employment and Apprenticeships, providing an update on the GM Working Well (Work and Health Programme) and seeking a delegation for the GMCA Treasurer, in consultation with Chief Executive Portfolio Lead for Skills, Employment and Apprenticeships to award the contract for the delivery of the GM Working Well and for the GMCA Monitoring Officer to finalise documentation with the provider.
The GM Mayor reminded members that this was work in progress and thanked Councillor Sean Anstee for the work undertaken to progress.
RESOLVED /-
9 Page 172 1. That it be noted that Department for Works & Pensions had now granted the Data Order which enabled the GMCA to contract directly with a provider for the delivery of the Greater Manchester Working Well (Work and Health Programme).
2. That authority be delegated to the GMCA Treasurer, in consultation with the Chief Executive Portfolio Lead for Skills, Employment & Apprenticeships (Theresa Grant), to award the contract for the delivery of the Greater Manchester Working Well (Work and Health Programme).
3. That the delegated authority to the GMCA’s Monitoring Officer to finalise and execute the legal documentation to be entered into between the GMCA and the provider, who will deliver the Manchester Working Well (Work and Health Programme), and to finalise and execute ancillary legal documentation between the GMCA and the DWP (including a Data Sharing Agreement to be entered into between the GMCA and the DWP), which is required for the delivery of the Greater Manchester Working Well (Work and Health Programme) Contract be confirmed.
185/17 LIVING WAGE ACCREDITATION
The GM Mayor introduced a report which outlined the process, benefits and challenges of the Living Wage Accreditation and sought approval for the submission of an application for the GMCA to become an accredited Living Wage employer.
Week commencing 6 November would be Living Wage Week, with the GMCA leading the way and that the GMCA, in terms of its direct employees was largely, if not fully compliant. Further work was to be undertaken with suppliers, although this could be completed once accreditation has been secured.
The Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime, Beverley Hughes welcomed this move and reported that she would be taking steps to ensure that the Greater Manchester Police becomes accredited as soon as possible.
The GM Mayor acknowledged that the process for local authorities was more difficult, albeit that a number of GM local authorities were already accredited.
Councillor Michael Whetton commented that the concept was valid albeit that individual authorities should not be pressured to comply, given some of the complexities involved. Trafford for instance would face issues with specific contract compliance, which may face a number of authorities across GM and was a target to work towards over a period of time.
The GM Mayor recognised that it would be more difficult for some organisations, in the current funding environment. He also acknowledged that
10 Page 173 this was a voluntary initiative and does need to point to recognise the pay issue; suggesting there could be more restraint at the top of organisations to ensure affordable wages at the lower end of structures given the differential in the growth of pay over the previous 20 years. There was a strong body of evidence to support the case for greater productivity once there was higher morale in the workforce.
City Mayor, Paul Dennett reported that Salford Council had already taken this decision some time ago. There was a direct relationship between pay and employment standards and the health and wellbeing of the workforce and people who delivery of services across GM. He added that there were workers across the country having to use food banks because they don’t earn enough. Pressure should be put on Government especially in terms of the regional pay negotiations and the relationship between the revenue support grant settlement. The future for local authorities was difficult and being a Living Wage employer does create budget pressures. Government does need to recognise that investing in the workforce would enable them to earn enough money and is about addressing low pay and poor employment standards.
Councillor Richard Leese, advised that Manchester City Council does pay the Living Wage, introduced before the Living Wage principle was established as part of a Manchester Minimum Wage initiative, which was slightly above the minimum wage. However, Manchester City Council has chosen not to go down the accreditation route, but to pay the living wage and it was also factored into procuring services.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the benefits and challenges of becoming a Living Wage accredited organisation be noted.
2. That the process for becoming a Living Wage accredited organisation be noted.
3. That the submission of an application for accreditation to the Living Wage Foundation be approved and endorsed.
186/17 UPDATE ON SKILLS CAPITAL 2017 – 2020 PROGRAMME
Councillor Michael Whetton introduced a report, on behalf of Councillor Sean Anstee, Portfolio Leader for Skills, Employment and Apprenticeships, which updated members on the progress of the Skills Capital 2017-2020 funding programme.
Members were advised that the requests received were substantially more than funding available, and allocations must support the Area Based Review outcome. Leaders may wish to consider single pot funding in and the amount
11 Page 174 allocated for skills capital in the future. The timetable for the process was to reach conclusion by March 2018.
Councillor Richard Leese suggested that the Growth Fund be reviewed to ascertain if was possible to divert more funds into meeting the GM skills requirements. The outcomes of the Area Based Review do need to be adequately funded in order to be delivered. The submissions could be used to evidence the case to Government for additional allocation in order to deliver GM’s priorities.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the report be noted, including reference to paragraph 3.2 of the report that the amount of funding requested exceeds the total funding available. Acknowledged that the GMCA may need to look at the Growth Fund or request for additional funding.
2. That the use of up to £3m for contingency, including some costs for programme management (this will include digital skills), be approved.
187/17 TOWN CENTRE CHALLENGE
The GM Mayor introduced a report which provided members proposing to launch a Town Centre Challenge, consistent with the principles of the GM Strategy of developing a City Region capable of helping all places to move forward and share in the growth of GM.
The objective was to have a focussed look at some of the outlying towns in GM and assess whether we can bring forward transformational development, particularly housing growth, linked to the transport interchanges, recognising that outlying areas do not always benefit. Over the next 20 years there needed to be a focus on all ten GM local authorities and their individual towns developing a strong forward plan and revitalising those places.
The process was as set out in the report and would involve all 10 GM local authorities would be invited to nominate a town for a focussed process of regeneration potential, drawing together both public and private land owners, considering Mayoral discretionary powers for development assistance.
City Mayor, Paul Dennett, welcomed this work and recalled that the GMSF had begun to highlight the need for creative town centre regeneration where place making was central, and transport infrastructure development and housing provision were crucial elements. In addition to addressing housing need in more than numerical terms, in terms of different types of and tenure to ensure good housing quality sits at the heart of the agenda.
Councillor Alex Ganotis reported that Stockport were making significant investment in their town centre but there have been some challenges engaging with landowners and owners of property, particularly in prime
12 Page 175 locations which were appropriate for regeneration and issues relating to high costs of remediation, which make some town centre locations less attractive to developers than more outlying areas, especially greenbelt areas. GM does need to ensure there was minimal encroachment into greenbelt areas. There does need to work with communities in urban areas is an opportunity to use the Mayor’s Compulsory Purchase powers to effect transformation of town centres and to bring national focus and attention to the behaviours of some land owners and developers who don’t embrace GM’s ambition.
Councillor Michael Whetton advised that the improvements to Altrincham Town Centre have seen a continuing improvement in the area, including an increase planning applications to convert properties into residential properties. The next area of focus would be Stretford aligned to the new UA92 University project, with lessons learned from the regeneration of Altrincham.
Councillor Kieran Quinn endorsed the approach and felt it was important that as the work develops over the forthcoming weeks, that priorities were honed down with clear deliverable. He also asked that resource was not spread too thinly but has the ability to deliver real outcomes.
The Greater Manchester Mayor added that if the scheme was successful that it was hoped that the principle could be taken further. In terms of the wider regeneration and bringing sites forward, the Prime Minister had recently visited GM and confirmed proposals for a Housing Deal in early 2018 which would further support bringing forward brownfield and industrial sites which have been difficult. This would further support the place making approach GM wants to deliver.
Resolved /-
That the plans to develop and launch a Town Centre Challenge be welcomed and supported, including endorsement of the next steps in the report.
188/17 BREXIT MONITOR – MONTHLY REPORT
Councillor Richard Leese, Portfolio Leader for Business and Economy, introduced a report which updated members on the key economic and policy developments in relation to the UK’s decision to leave the EU, adding that there is no real progress in transition.
The GM Mayor drew members attention to paragraph 2.8 whereby Northern Combined Authority Mayors met with the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, David Davies, the first time there had been formal engagement. A commitment was given that a Working Group would be established comprising Combined Authorities and Government officials to understand the impact and differential regional impact of Brexit deals on the regional economy. It was pointed out at the meeting that 58% of GM’s exports were to the EU, significantly above the UK figure of 44% and talk of no deal was not necessarily good news for GM.
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RESOLVED /-
That the October Brexit Monitor be noted.
189/17 TRAVEL DIARY SURVEY RESULTS
The GM Mayor introduced a report which provided members with a high level summary analysis of the GM Travel Diary Survey results 2015-16 and comparison with TFL London Travel Demand Surveys. He added that the information provided a crucial evidence base for decisions around public transport. Portfolio holders were encouraged to use the statics to inform their specific portfolio work.
RESOLVED /-
That the report be noted and that a further update of travel trends as part of the 2040 Strategy delivery plan report be submitted to the GMCA.
190/17 GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY REVENUE UPDATE
Councillor Kieran Quinn, Portfolio Leader for Finance and Investment, introduced a report which informed members of the 20017/18 forecast revenue outturn position as at the end of September 2017. He highlighted cost pressures associated with the GM Spatial Framework and the Mayoral Election.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the Economic Development and Regeneration revenue outturn position for 2017/18 which showing an underspend of £0.331 million against budget be noted.
2. That the Economic Development and Regeneration budget adjustments as detailed in paragraphs 2.2 and 2.3 be noted.
3. That the transport revenue outturn position for 2017/18 which was in line with budget after transfers to earmarked reserves be noted.
4. That the Transport for Greater Manchester outturn position for 2017/18 which was in line with budget be noted.
191/17 GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY CAPITAL UPDATE
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Councillor Kieran Quinn, Portfolio Leader for Finance and Investment, introduced a report which provided an update in relation to the capital expenditure programme. Going forward Capital budgets would need to be aligned to the GM Strategy priorities agreed earlier on the agenda.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the current 2017/18 forecast compared to the 2017/18 capital budget be noted.
2. That the addition of the Horwich Parkway scheme to the Park and Ride programme to be funded within the existing programme be approved.
3. That the funding of £0.4 million for the Salford Bolton Network Improvement (SBNI) to fund activities associated with the enabling, development and delivery of the Bolton and Salford packages be approved.
4. That the addition to the programme of £0.5 million of borrowings for the purchase of nine replacement vehicles by GMATL for its Ring and Ride fleet be approved. The repayment and costs associated with these borrowings will be repaid from future GMATL budgets.
192/17 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT LOANS FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATION
Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in this report, as a Director of the Manchester Life Board and left the room during the discussion of the report.
City Mayor. Paul Dennett, Portfolio Lead for Housing, Planning & Homelessness, introduced a report which sought the approval of the GM Housing Investment Loans Fund loans. He further added that GM were in negotiations with Government regarding a Housing Deal which was anticipated for announcement in early 2018. He advised that issues of affordable housing and section 106 agreements were to be dealt with locally in line with local plans and policies. Work was also underway to revise the GM Housing Investment Strategy to better meet housing need in GM within the context of residential growth. Further details of Government’s Housing Deal for GM should be available in the New Year. The Conservative Party conference included an announcement in relation to an additional £2bn for local authorities and housing associations to build affordable housing.
RESOLVED /-
1. That the GM Housing Investment Loans Fund loans in the table below, as detailed further in this and the accompanying Part B report be approved.
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BORROWER SCHEME DISTRICT LOAN Lampwick Lampwick Street, Manchester £24,500,000 Developments New Islington Ltd. Breckside Clarkesville Farm, Manchester £4,154,000 Estates Crumpsall RP2 Radclyffe Primary Salford £2,661,000 Developments School, Ordsall Ltd. Mulbury Willows Road, Salford £1,741,000 Homes Ltd. Weaste Hurstfield Hurstfield Road, Salford £1,355,000 Developments Worsley Ltd. Square One Bridgewater Road, Trafford £1,146,000 Homes (NW) Altrincham Ltd.
2. That Manchester City Council be recommended to approve the above and prepares and effects the necessary legal agreements in accordance with its approved internal processes.
3. That the revised GM Housing Investment Strategy be submitted to a future meeting of the GMCA.
193/17 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC
Members noted that the commercially sensitive information contained in Item 21 Greater Manchester Housing Investment Loans Fund – Investment Approval Recommendation was taken as read during consideration of the Part A - Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update (minute ref 190/17 refers) and for this reason the exclusion resolution was not moved.
194/17 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT LOANS FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATION
CLERK’S NOTE: This item was considered in support of the Part A Greater Manchester Investment Framework Projects Update at minute 192/17 above.
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